From the Cochabamba airport, transfer to accommodations outside of the city for orientation, including an opening celebratory dinner, goal setting, and health/safety briefings. Morning hike and exploration to ground us in Bolivia. Excursion into Cochabamba city center.
Exploring Culture and Community Resilience
Bolivia is renowned for its rich cultural diversity and dramatic landscapes. From the towering Andes mountains to the vast salt flats of Uyuni, it is a country of striking contrasts and vibrant traditions. Home to many Indigenous communities, including the Quechua, Aymara, and Guaraní, Bolivia reflects both deep-rooted traditions and dynamic change. Despite its wealth of natural resources, the nation has faced challenges such as poverty, political instability, and the pressures of globalization. At the same time, Bolivia has emerged as a leader in Indigenous rights, environmental activism, and social movements. Its unique history and current development make it an ideal place to study the complex dynamics of globalization in Latin America.
Throughout the journey, students will learn firsthand about Bolivia’s ongoing social movements. From Cochabamba’s historic struggle for water rights to the vibrant arts scene in El Alto, the program offers opportunities for deep cultural immersion, including homestays with local families. Interactions with Quechua, Aymara, and Afro-Bolivian communities will provide a richer understanding of the country’s cultural diversity and the resilience of its people in shaping their future.
