Educational Travel Programs

CTY’s Educational Travel Programs fully engage CTY families in authentic learning experiences at destinations all over the world. Although each adventure is unique, they all aim to introduce students and parents to the rich natural, cultural, and historical aspects of spectacular destinations spanning the globe. Participants will build lasting memories and wonderful friendships as they expand their worldview.

Please note: Our Educational Travel Programs are recommended for students in grades 5 –12. However, younger siblings and Talent Search participants in grades 2–4 may be permitted to attend after a parent or guardian speaks with Family Academic Programs staff about the pace and content of the programs. Please read Educational Travel Policies, Terms, and Conditions for more information. Deposits are required to reserve your space.

To speak with someone about these trips or to register, call 410-735-6115, 8:30 a.m. – 5 p.m. ET, or email ctyfam@jhu.edu.

Featured Program

Experience the Total Solar Eclipse in Chile, December 2020

December 12 - 19, 2020

CTY invites families to join an incredible expedition to Chile, to watch day turn into night when a once-in-a-lifetime total solar eclipse passes along Chile's pacific coast December 14, 2020.

While the eclipse may be the initial draw of this world-class journey, families will be enthralled by this entire expertly curated week in Chile. Travel to Santiago and view the expansive Maipo Valley wine region, touring Vicente Perez Rosales National Park and the volcanic ash fields of the Osorno Volcano. A three day excursion to the Patagonia region begins with a flight to Punta Arenas, exploring the Sierra del Toro trail to see waterfalls, glaciers, and Campo de Hielo Sur (the Southern Ice Field). Families will visit a working estancia and learn how vastly outnumbered gauchos manage their Andean ranches, and take a boat trip on the magical turquoise waters of Laguna Amarga Park to witness the spectacular Grey Glacier and Salto Grande waterfall.

We are so excited to share this unique opportunity with CTY families!

Program includes accommodations, most meals, and transportation during the program. It does not include airfare or other transportation to and from Chile at the start or end of the program.

• Detailed itinerary: Chile trip (PDF)

Price per person*

• $6,695 for adults
• $6,595 for students 16 and under at time of travel

*Price does not include $695 internal airfare charge per person.

 Register Now

2020 Programs

The Culture of Cuba

June 21 – June 27, 2020

A captivating journey along the Caribbean coast. The doors to Cuba’s beauty and history have been opened in time for your family to glimpse one of the most alluring destinations in the world. Your extraordinary seven-day journey starts in Havana, where you’ll cruise around in ’50s-era classic cars while learning about the lively arts scene and the local cigar trade. From there, you’ll venture toward the Bay of Pigs and the iconic home of Ernest Hemingway to go even deeper into this island nation’s momentous history.

What makes this experience so special is our exclusive access to guides, journalists, and generous locals who provide their complete support to ensure that CTY families experience the same firsthand, authentic Cuban culture they do.

Package includes: 6 nights' first-class accommodations; all breakfasts, 6 lunches, and 4 dinners; all land transportation; all site and event entrance fees; all gratuities for hotels, meals, and luggage; full-time professional tour guides.

• View a sample itinerary: Cuba trip (PDF)

Price per person

• Early Bird—Before March 10, 2020: $5,695 adults, $5,495 16 and under
• After March 10, 2020 (regular deadline April 21, 2020): $5,895 adults, $5,695 16 and under

 Register Now
 

Connect with Nature in the Scottish Highlands

July 4 – July 11, 2020

Study the flora and fauna at the heart of dramatic landscapes. Take a walk on the wild side while studying one of the world’s most breathtaking environments. Renowned author and naturalist Sir John Lister-Kaye welcomes you to his Aigas Field Centre, where you and your CTYer will be treated to a variety of habitats and exploration.

In the evenings, enjoy a 3-course meal in the Victorian dining hall before retiring to your spacious timber lodge, complete with an ensuite bathroom and communal lounge, all set among the stunning House of Aigas grounds and gardens. Begin your adventure in bonnie Scotland.

Package includes: 7 nights' accommodation at Aigas Field Centre; all meals for duration of program; all land transportation; all activities and entrance fees; accompaniment by the center's team of professional naturalists; guidance from Scottish forest rangers.

• Sample itinerary: Scotland trip (PDF)

Price per person

• Early Bird—Before April 7, 2020: $2,995 for adults, $1,995 students 16 and under
• After April 7, 2020 (regular deadline May 5, 2020): $3,195 for adults, $2,195 students 16 and under

 Register Now
 

Italy: La Dolce Vita for the Whole Family

August 2 – August 8, 2020

Venice, Florence, and Rome are your gateway to Italy. Three of Italy’s most dazzling cities await your family of fine diners and art admirers. In a perfectly timed itinerary of Venice, Florence, and Rome, your journey will begin with climbing aboard a gondola and end with a wish at the Trevi Fountain, capturing all of the regions’ highlights in between.  

From your historic hotels to activities such as cycling through Chianti’s olive groves and making pizza (plus wine tasting for the adults), your family will be immersed in the Italian way of life and all it encompasses: a deep appreciation for culture, cuisine, and togetherness. Che bella.

Package includes: 6 nights' first-class accommodation; all breakfasts, 5 dinners, and 1 lunch; all land transportation; all site entrance fees; all gratuities for hotels, meals, and luggage; full-time professional tour guides; brochures and literature for each site.

• Sample itinerary: Italy trip (PDF)

Price per person

• Early Bird—Before May 5, 2020: $5,695 for adults, $5,495 students 16 and under
• After May 5, 2020 (regular deadline June 9, 2020): $5,895 for adults, $5,695 students 16 and under

 Register Now
 

Previous CTY Family Travel Educational Programs include:

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