Alyra’s team is developing an amazing expedition for a Montreal high school that will combine learning the history of Mesoamerica, traditionals ceremonies, cultural immersion and experiencing excursions in nature. The most important objective is to accomplish the IDP (international development project) in order to improve the quality of life in a hosting community in the Sierra Sur (south mountain) of San Jose del Pacifico in the state of Oaxaca.

PART 1 – Day 1: Oaxaca and Monte Alban

• Explore the archaeological site of Monte Alban, the ancient capital of the Zapotecs and one of the first cities in Mesoamerica. During its epoch, it was also one of the most populated cities. It was founded approximately 500 years BC and flourished until 750 AD. The site has a spectacular mountain top location overlooking the valleys of Oaxaca

Night arrival in Oaxaca
1 night in a hostel in Oaxaca
Private transport to the community (5h)

PART 2 – Days 2-12: ID Project

• ID Project in the community
• Mountain trek to a panoramic viewpoint in San José del Pacifico
• Traditional Temazcalli session in San Jose del Pacifico : Temazcalli is a traditional sweat lodge, also called a purification ceremony or simply sweat, which is a hut, typically dome-shaped and made with natural materials, used by Indigenous peoples of the Americas for ceremonial steam baths and prayer. The Sweat Lodge is a place of spiritual refuge and mental and physical
• Play sports with locals from the community
• Spanish lesson
• Latin dance lesson
• Tortilla workshop

11 nights in home stays
10 days of IDProject                                                                                                                                                                                           Private and public transportation

PART 3 – Days 13-18 :  Discover the coast of Oaxaca

• More details coming soon

• Preps

  Travel documents
  A valid passport that expires at least 6 months after the date of your return flight back home.

  Luggage
  The least amount of luggage possible. We recommend bags that are practical and easy to carry. One large bag and a small day back-pack is ideal.

  Health
  We recommend you consult your local medical travel clinic (or doctor) a few months before leaving in order to ensure you have the necessary vaccines. Your medical insurance card might not cover costs incurred due to injuries or health costs when you are abroad. If you need to travel with medication of some kind, please bring a doctor’s prescription.

  Safety
  We recommend you bring a concealed belt that can hold your important documents, credit cards and currencies. It is illegal to take any objects found in archeological sites or any natural resources from any of the national parks, ecological reserves, protectorates or any other sites visited.

  Insurance
  Find information of our availaible travel insurance: All inclusive travel policy and Youth travel policy.

• These prices include

  • International flights from Montreal and back;
  • Alyra’s CO (Creative Organizer) accompanying the group 24/7;
  • Local transportation;
  • Lodging (in the community): in host families, 2 per family for students;
  • Lodging (outside the community): multiple occupancy for students;
  • Food: 3 meals a day (Local authentic food will be served);
  • Snacks and potable water at all times;
  • Organization of the community projects and coordination with the local community leader and members;
  • Non-alcoholic drinks and potable water during meals;
  • Activities/visits mentioned with local guides (when mentioned);
  • Entrance tickets for museums, parks, sites, etc mentioned in the itinerary;
  • Tips to local guides, drivers, restaurants, etc.;
  • Pre-trip prep: 2 meetings with the students/parents to prepare everyone for the trip;

• These prices do not include

  • 0.1% for the OPC (Consumer Protection Office);
  • Insurance Package: Medical, Interruption and Cancelation coverage;
  • Visa expenses (for non-canadian passports)
  • Souvenirs/gifts you decide to buy;
  • Transportation from the school to the airport and back;
  • Laundry and any other personal expenses;