Despedida (Farewell!)

On our last day in Qenqo we had a fantastic celebration. The day started with half the group joining some of the friends we made in Qenqo to prepare cuy (guinea pig), a special gift reserved for celebrations. Five of us individually picked the cuy we wanted to…

Last Week in Qenqo

The following post features student writing. As the days wind down in Qenqo, we all think about how we can effectively leave a lasting impact on the community and do something to make their lives better after we are gone. For most this means working…

Six Word Stories About Visiting Machu Picchu

Train rides. Icky sandwiches. Sofia’s Twix. (Emma W.) Pulling luggage, card games, beautiful views. (Maya)   Four AM. I’m awake — how fun. (Lou) 4AM: backpacks full, excitement level up. (Sofia)   Enjoyable hiking; endless pictures; beautiful views. (Grace) Walked, talked, found Puerta del Sol….

Top 10 Highlights from Week Two in Qenqo

The following post features student writing. Photos to come as soon as the internet allows! 10. We started our Independent Projects 9. We had a surprise visit to the community’s lodge 8. We helped the community clear the land for potato harvesting 7. We went…

Independent Projects

The following post features student writing. This week we started our independent projects. These projects, seperate from the main tasks, are meant to create further sustainable benefits in the community. Each project is designed and carried out by either a small group or individual. However,…

Rafting and Ruins

The following post features student writing. Today in Ollanta, six of us woke up early and went to see the ruins of Ollantaytambo, which was only a 10 minute walk from Andean Moon, our hostel for the weekend. We arrived at 6:45 AM, only to…

Las Canteras Hike

The following post features student writing. Today we embarked on one of our greatest challenges of the trip so far — taking a 10-mile hike. Our hike was to take place on a mountain of the sacred valley that surrounded the town of Ollyanta where…

Moray, Mountain Bikes, and Hot Showers

The following post features student writing. Hey from Ollantaytambo! Yesterday we arrived at our hostel after coming down from Qenqo. We then quickly hopped into vans to head to the Moray ruins where we began our bike ride. The Moray is a large, symmetrical structure built…

First Week in Qenqo

The following post features student writing. This week was the first week we spent in Qenqo, the village we are working in. Our group spent the past four days working on various projects in the community. These projects included building the community center by moving blocks and…