9 Great Educational Trip Ideas in Latin America for 2025

It can often seem like a minefield when generating educational trip ideas for your students.

If you are still pondering whether to take your students up volcanoes in Guatemala or immerse them into the rich porteño culture in Argentina’s capital Buenos Aires, we are here to help.

In this blog you will find 9 great ideas to bring your classroom learning to life with a purposeful educational trip in Latin America for 2025.

1. Environmental science in the Galapagos

The Galapagos Islands are a living laboratory of evolution, where students can come face-to-face with the incredible wildlife. The legendary Charles Darwin studied on his famous Beagle voyage here and still today, expert scientists are using his theories to learn more about the incredible wildlife.

Suggested educational activities:

• Feed giant tortoises
• Observe playful sea lions
• Kayak and snorkel with sharks and sea turtles
• Take part in environmental conservation projects
• Island hopping on an eco ferry

2. Humanities trip in Peru’s Sacred Valley

The Sacred Valley is home to some of Peru’s most impressive Inca ruins, including Machu Picchu, Pisac, and Ollantaytambo. 

Students can learn about the Inca Empire’s engineering marvels, agricultural techniques, and religious beliefs as they explore these ancient sites. 

They can also trace ancient civilizations up until today with a unique homestay experience that supports the preservation of cultural heritage.

Suggested educational activities:

• Tour Machu Picchu 
• Hike the Lares Trek
• Quechua homestay experience 
• Indigenous cooking class
• Train ride through the Sacred Valley

3. Archaeology trip in Colombia’s Lost City

The Lost City Trek, also known as the Ciudad Perdida trek, is an unforgettable adventure that takes students deep into the Colombian jungle. 

Along the way, they’ll visit ancient ruins, learn about indigenous cultures, and learn about the importance of responsible tourism. 

This memorable educational adventure will take students out of their comfort zone as they learn to sleep in camps in the jungle, cross rivers, and trek with respect through the incredible Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta.

Suggested educational activities:

• 4-day trek to the Lost City
• Walking tour in Santa Marta
• Kayaking to a Caribbean beach
• Indigenous weaving workshop
• Explore Tayrona National Park

4. Spanish Immersion in Panama

Panama is a great place for students to immerse themselves in Spanish language learning. 

With its friendly people and beautiful scenery, Panama provides a safe and supportive environment for students to practice their Spanish skills.

This incredibly accessible country offers fantastic rural activities like on Bocas del Toro where students can immerse themselves into the Afro community.

Suggested educational activities:

• Visit the Panama Canal
• Island hop the San Blas Islands
• Traditional cooking class on Bocas del Toro
• Tour Panama’s Old Town
• Kayak in the mangroves in Mata Oscura

5. Environmental Conservation in Costa Rica

Costa Rica is a leader in sustainable tourism, making it a perfect destination for an eco-adventure trip. 

Students can learn about rainforest conservation, renewable energy sources, and the importance of protecting our planet.

Of course, environmental conservation isn’t possible without community involvement and we also recommend cultural immersion with an unforgettable homestay experience.

Suggested educational activities:

• Waterfall rappelling & zipline in the jungle
• Volunteer at an animal rescue center
• Traditional cooking class in Mollejones 
• Hiking to volcanoes
• Explore the National Parks

6. Anthropology in Guatemala

Guatemala is home to the impressive ruins of the Mayan civilization, including Tikal and Copan. 

Students can learn about Mayan culture, astronomy, and mathematics as they explore these ancient cities.

Suggested educational activities:

• Hiking to volcanoes like Pacaya or Acatenango
• Kayak in Lake Atitlán
• Explore Tikal National Park
• Walking tour around Antigua Guatemala
• Cultural market challenge in Chichicastenango Market

7. Art & culture trip in Argentina

Few places in South America boast as much diverse culture and artistic influence as Buenos Aires. 

Head to Argentina’s enthralling capital to discover a range of world-class museums, local art movements and hands-on experiences that will bring students closer to this passionate culture. 

Suggested educational activities:

• Visit the MALBA museum
• Fileteado Porteño art class
• Mural painting with local NGO
• Walking tour of San Telmo
• Tango shows and classes

​​8. A school expedition in the Amazon Rainforest

Immerse your students in the world’s largest rainforest for an unforgettable adventure. 

The Amazon is a living classroom, teeming with biodiversity. Students can explore the rainforest canopy, learn about indigenous cultures, and study the delicate balance of the ecosystem. From observing wildlife to conducting scientific experiments, this trip offers endless educational possibilities.

We recommend the Amazon regions of Iquitos and Puerto Maldonado in Peru as well as Ecuador’s Puyo region.

Suggested activities:

• Boat ride along the Amazon river
• Homestay in Puyo
• Early-morning fishing in Iquitos
• Volunteer at an animal rescue center in Puerto Maldonado
• Hiking through the Amazon rainforest

9. History & Culture in Cuba’s capital

Cuba serves up a unique opportunity for students to experience a different way of life. One way is to explore the vibrant culture, rich history, and stunning colonial architecture of Havana. 

Students can also practice their Spanish, learn about Cuban music and dance, and engage in community service projects. This trip provides a valuable cultural exchange experience that will broaden students’ cultural perspectives.

Suggested educational activities

• Walking tour of Havana’s Old Town
• Visit the Museum of the Revolution
• Salsa and rumba dance classes
• Volunteer on a rural organic farm
• Biking in Viñales Valley

And breathe… As you can see, there are a huge range of options to explore when you are looking for educational trip ideas in Latin America.

Of course, everything depends on your travel needs, learning focus and budget. Our friendly team is ready to help you plan your trip for 2025. We genuinely can’t wait for you to get in touch, simply send us a message by clicking here.