After hours of flying and navigating customs lines, baggage claim crowds, and security check points, the Putney warriors finally arrived in Cusco. The group began the last leg of their journey through the city streets of Cusco, up the winding roads that passed ancient Inca ruins, toward the pleasant little town nestled in the Sacred Valley known as Pisac. On the way there, the group stopped at a llama farm and had the chance to feed all types of llamas, from fluffy alpacas to their leaner relatives known as vicugnas. A few minutes later, the mountains opened up to reveal the beautiful sacred valley and the ancient Inca ruins above Pisac—we had finally arrived! After scarfing down a hearty meal, washed down by some purple chicha morada, the students had time to explore the local market full of beautiful woven goods and negotiate prices with vendors. The group ended the day with great discussions on the hotel roof surrounded by a rising moon over the mountains that encircled us.

– Lisa & Gregorio