If you want to learn a new language and see the world while you’re at it, consider intensive language programs in Peru. Why Peru? Peru is a linguistically diverse country, with a variety of Spanish dialects, Quechua, and even other aboriginal languages. By studying language in Peru, you could learn to communicate with people from all over Central and South America and even the world. What’s more, you could might all about the cultures that pre-date Spanish presence in the Americas while you’re at it. And it’s a unique option—by studying somewhere a little off the beaten track, you’ll not only gain experience living abroad, but it may be something nobody else you know has done. Some programs may also integrate your language education with internship or service experiences, increasing the amount you could learn while you’re there.
Peru could be a fascinating place to learn a new language. While the official language is Spanish, that’s far from the only language spoken in the country. In addition to Spanish, many people in Peru may also speak Quechua, Aymara, and a variety aboriginal languages and dialects. The latter are especially prevalent throughout communities in the Peruvian Amazon. Of these, Spanish and Quechua are the most prominent, not only in Peru but also throughout South America, making them both great choices for potential study and practice.
Learn Spanish in Peru
Why should you choose Peru for your Spanish education? Peru is a linguistically diverse country—even when you’re just looking at Spanish dialects! You could not only learn the basics, but also see for yourself how Spanish-speakers of all different walks of life, all over Peru, use the language in a unique way. For example, Andean Spanish might be spoken in more rural areas, and have elements in common with the dialects spoken in Bolivia and Ecuador. While Peruvian Coastal Spanish tends to be considered the standard Spanish dialect throughout Peru, many Peruvians may actually speak a mixture of Andean and Coastal Spanish, called neolimeño. You might also be able to learn about Amazonic Spanish, which is influenced by both the Andean dialect and aboriginal languages in the Amazon, and Equatorial Spanish, spoken in the northwestern-most region. Whether you’re a beginner or a more advanced student, by studying Spanish in Peru, you could learn a lot not only about the language itself, but how it interacts with diverse cultural traditions.
Study Quechua in Peru
Fascinated by Quechua? Learning Quechua in Peru could be a great choice, especially if you want to get involved with local Andean communities, such as through volunteer or humanitarian efforts, or are interested in helping endangered languages survive. Quechua refers both to a family of languages and dialects spoken throughout South America (particularly in Andean communities), and also a specific language in Peru. Historically, Quechua was spoken and disseminated by the Incan Empire. Today, it persists throughout South America in a variety of forms, especially in the Andes. As of 2007, more than three million people in Peru speak Quechua.
Peru was actually one of the first countries to recognize Quechua as an official minority language. Not only is it the largest minority language in Peru, but Quechua has also had a marked influence on Peruvian Spanish. You’ll notice similarities in the way certain things are pronounced, and even borrowed phrases in Peruvian Spanish conversation. As a result, by studying Quechua could also complement your Spanish education, in addition to being valuable in its own right.
Benefits of Studying Language Programs in Peru
You might have tons of reasons you want to study language in Peru. One big one, though? Immersion. In language learning, immersion refers to the practice of surrounding oneself with the targeted language at all times. In these types of programs, language classes would be conducted in the same language students intend to learn (i.e. Spanish or Quechua), along with most or all communication relevant to the course. Living in Peru, you could take this experience to the next level! You could use your new skills throughout your everyday life, to navigate your local community, talk to your new friends, to do your shopping, and more. In other words, your formal studies could be supported by practice 24/7, allowing you not only to strengthen your speaking and listening skills, but also to learn more about how real people speak in a variety of social and cultural contexts.
Becoming fluent in another language, whether that language is Spanish or Quechua, could also have some unexpected benefits beyond being able to list the skill on your resume. In addition to being able to communicate with more people—allowing you to make friends and work alongside people from a variety of backgrounds throughout Central and South America—learning and using multiple languages can help you academically and cognitively. You might improve your observation and critical thinking skills, and even find it a little easier to pick up additional languages later on. Best of all, you could develop a broader perspective, understanding diverse perspectives on their own terms, in their own words.
Living & Studying in Peru: What to Expect
Peru is a dynamic and fascinating country, and your stay there could be unforgettable. Between the country’s rich and diverse heritage, beautiful natural resources, and vibrant culture, you’ll have a ton to learn and experience during your stay. If you’re interested in the history of South America, you could explore Machu Picchu and learn all about the Incan civilization up close. In Peru, you might find ancient history alongside colonial Spanish influences. See for yourself how European and indigenous influences come together to inform modern Peruvian culture and language. Machu Picchu is just one example of many. Peru is home to twelve UNESCO World Heritage Sites—which says a lot about how much Peru has to offer.
Peru also has plenty of options for outdoor adventures. Explore the Amazon rainforest, climb a mountain, or hike the Inca trail. You could also pursue any number of adventure sports in your free time, like rafting or kayaking, zip lining, mountain biking, and more.
Of course, leisure and tourist activities aren’t the only thing in Peru. It’s a country with its own unique daily concerns, culture, and traditions. Peru is sometimes considered a developing country, partially due to the prominence of agriculture in comparison to industrialization, in addition to other factors like economic inequality. However, Peru also boasts one of the fastest growing economies in South America, helping to alleviate some of those concerns. All of this could make it an exciting place to live and work. In fact, some programs may even emphasize this by combining language education with intern and volunteer experiences. That could allow you not only to build fluency, but also gain important life and work experience, and even use your new knowledge to help others.
Overall, by living and studying in Peru, you’ll not only have an opportunity to explore some of the most beautiful places in the Americas, but learn what it’s like for people in other walks of life. You’ll likely hone your communication skills through language practice, and use those skills to learn more about Peru and the people who live there—and also learn about yourself in the process.
Find Your Language Programs in Peru Today!
Take advantage of a great opportunity to study language in Peru! Select your preferred language and program duration using the menu, or simply browse all of your options in the sponsored program listings below. If you want more information, or even to start enrolling, you can click on the program name to reach out to them! Don’t hesitate. Get ready for an exciting experience living and studying language in Peru!