Dates: Early 2013, look out for finalized dates soon!
  
The Expedition offers a firsthand look at poverty alleviation efforts in Peru, with a focus on Lima and Cusco. Although Peru has experienced sustained economic growth in the past decade, millions of Peruvians continue living in poverty, particularly in the outskirts of cities like Lima and rural provinces like Cusco. The Expedition team learns about the complex dimensions of economic development and poverty in Peru from representatives of grassroots organizations, multilateral development institutions, the private sector, and universities. Participants also visit projects in different areas including agriculture, business development, education and health.
 
 Before the trip, the Expedition team prepares by completing a set of readings and attending an online briefing session. In the field, Expedition participants engage in guided group discussions on a daily basis and, while in Cusco, serve as volunteers in a community project. The team also enjoys various recreational activities, including a visit to Machu Picchu.
 

General
Land area: Half a million square miles (about twice the size of France)
Capital: Lima
Population (2010): 28 million
Official languages: Spanish, Quechua and Aymara
      
Economy and Development
Currency: Nuevo sol
Total GDP (PPP) (2010): US$275 billion
GDP (PPP) per capita (2010): US$9,335
Top three export industries (2010): Copper, gold, zinc
Human development index (2010): .723 (ranked 63 out of 194 countries)
Population below the national poverty line (2009): 53%
Female adult literacy rate (2009): 85%
Male adult literacy rate (2009): 94%
Population not using improved water source (2009): 16%
 
Source: United Nations Development Program & World Bank