World Leadership School

Puerto Maldonado, situated in the southeastern part of Peru, is a vibrant and rapidly growing gateway to the Amazon rainforest. Nestled along the banks of the Madre de Dios River, this bustling town is known for its rich biodiversity and natural beauty. The town’s location at the confluence of several rivers makes it an ideal starting point for excursions into the rainforest.

Despite its relatively small size, Puerto Maldonado has experienced notable economic growth in recent years driven by eco-tourism. The town’s economy is centered around eco-lodges, guided tours and wildlife viewing experiences that promote responsible tourism. Puerto Maldonado has also been involved in conservation efforts to protect the Amazon rainforest from illegal logging and mining. Puerto Maldonado is a pivotal player in the effort to balance economic growth with environmental sustainability in the Amazon basin.

The safety of our programs rests on the experience and skills of our Staff, Country Coordinators and Instructors, who convene at our annual training in Colorado’s Arkansas Valley.

• The Staff of World Leadership School have decades of experience working in different educational environments. Their focus is logistics, risk management, program design, professional development, and consulting.
• Our Country Coordinators live and work year round in our overseas countries. They screen our homestay families, evaluate our transport and other service providers, and provide ground support for our groups.
• Our Instructors are veteran educators with extensive international experience. They have wilderness first responder training and often have past affiliations with Peace Corps, Outward Bound, NOLS, and/or independent schools.

We strive to responsibly manage risks. Our itineraries minimize highway travel and maximize immersion in rural communities that we know well. We update our risk management protocols, integrate feedback into program design, and invest in safety and communication equipment. Despite these efforts, World Leadership School cannot guarantee safety nor can it eliminate the inherent and other risks of international student travel. For information regarding program activities and associated risks, risk management, and student and parent responsibilities, please contact our office.

“I am more grounded, curious and inspired to make change to protect our world and travel to learn cultures not just be a tourist.”
— Student from Pacific Ridge School

“This trip showed me how traveling doesn’t always have to be just observing other cultures but rather it can involve engaging with and learning from different people and their customs. I feel like I’ll go home ready to make positive change in my community and to spend more time with people (without our phones!)”
— Student from Packer Collegiate Institute

“This trip helped me define my comfort zone and has created so much appreciation for all the opportunities I take for granted at home. This is something that I will always be thankful for.”
— Student from Gilman School