Peru Day 5 - Machu Picchu

Today was packed full of activities! We woke up early as in breakfast at 5 a.m. with a departure from the hotel at 6 a.m. Parents don’t let the students fool you. They can wake up early. All of the students were up and at breakfast on time. Our early departure time was so that we could take a train to Machu Picchu. The scenery on the train ride was amazing. After checking into our hotel we had lunch and then rode a bus up a bumpy road to Machu Picchu.

Machu Picchu was something I have been looking forward to for a long time. You could feel the excitement and anticipation from the students as well. We spent the entire afternoon exploring Machu Picchu. We actually entered and exited the site twice! The first time was with a tour guide and the second time was to explore the ruins on our own. I think all of us enjoyed the freedom to wander around Machu Picchu for two hours. We were very lucky because in July Peru is starting to limit the number of visitors to the ruins. Groups will only have one opportunity to explore and will have to be with their guide at all times.

After dinner we had time to go do some shopping at a market and then time to explore the city. My group bought some snacks, got some donuts from the street vendor, and then watched some locals play soccer.

On a different note we are so proud of all the kids. They are making smart decisions, trying new things, and having lot of fun. They are very tired which I think is a positive.

Mr. Thornton