Day 3: Lares Valley to Machu Picchu

Our 3rd morning in the Andes was...um, what´s the word? Freakishly cold! There was a crusty layer of frost on the ground on the tents. It was a long night. After all, we were 4300 meters above sea level. Fortunately, soon after we awoke, the sun broke over the nearby mountains and it quickly warmed up.

We´re a bit tired and cold, but the smiles are fairly sincere as we discussed the final 12 kms of hiking over a hot breakfast. The cook whipped up some veggie omlettes, hot cereal, toast, and the ever-present coca tea.

One of the many local kids who met us on the trail.

The first of two Quechua schools we visited on the last day of the hike.

Megan causing a small riot in the classroom by introducing (with some regret by the teacher) rubber bouncy balls. Note the traditional dress. This wasn´t a tourist stop; this was the real deal.

The intrepid explorer crossing a ¨raging¨river.

The day´s second school visit and lunch spot, nesstled in the valley. We didn´t exactly visit a classroom, as much as bring an abrupt end to the school day by starting a futbol game on the pristine playing field. Once the ball hit the dirt, it was on! Even the bus driver and some of the porters joined in. After all, futbol IS the sport in Latin America.

No children were harmed in the taking of this photo!

As proof, here she is after the mob.

Megan inciting another riot with a rousing game of ¨slaps.¨ They loved it!

The cook and his henchmen preparing the final meal of deep-fried cauliflower, fried rice (a batch for the veggies and another batch with hotdogs and bacon), soup, and a purple juice made from corn. It´s taste closely resembles that of Bubble Yum bubble gum. De-lish.