Written by Jess and Tilly
From this blog you know that we survived the dreaded jungle bus, only to have to wait around 2 days for a bus that never showed up. Eventually after a 32 hour ride from hell where we unfortunately encountered a landslide, we were finally on our way to the pampas. Unfortunately we didn’t get to visit the Bolivia project however we did get to enjoy 2 full days of Cayman spotting, pink river dolphin swimming and piranha fishing at our remote ecolodge sanctuary.
We then got to enjoy a harrowing plane journey back into civilization in La Paz. After numerous buses we eventually made our way back over the border into the chick city of Cusco. We then a lazy day to buy souvenirs and prepare ourselves for the next hectic 7 days. The next morning we met the charismatic ozzy- who introduced us to the adrenaline fun filled sport of white water rafting. Split into two teams, the tick squad and and naval personel we set out onto the river to take on rapids up to grade 4.
The white rafting enjoyed by all, took us to the beginning of the Inca trail, our final challenge as a team of quest volunteers. Dressed as cholitas and llamas, we embarked on the four day trek attracting many stares and photos.
Through both sun and rain our sore legs encountered many many stairs… Seriously too many stairs. But we all appreciated how much stronger we’d become since our first day trek around lago Quicocha in Ecuador. With the spirit of Pachamama and baby dragon behind us, we reached the amazing historical site of Machu Picchu, reaching the sun gate in rapid time, unlike the other hikers who weren’t carrying their entire lives on their backs. At the sun gate Machu Picchu was still in the mist, but as we got closer the ruins began to come into view, before we knew it we were blessed by the incredible site of Machu Picchu. Our tour guide- Gato, told us the fascinating story of the Incas and Hiram Bingham. After which we posed for the typical touristy photos and explored the spectacular ruins. All the group were slightly saddened by the fact that making it to Machu Picchu was the last challenge that we had together. As we write this we are sat in Cusco about to have our last day in South America.
It’s a sad and strange feeling but we are going to make it an amazing day and night to finish off an amazing three months.
Written by Jess and Tilly
We just want to say well done guys on a great three months! Your hard work will be felt in Vm for years to come and the fancy dress has left us all in the office with a smile on our faces.