This past December, we went to the small community which was around 2,000 feet higher than the main village we visited last year. We switchbacked our way up a steep and perilous road. It was windy, steep and had dangerous drop offs. After our truck and other vehicles made it to the destination, we unloaded the clothing, other gifts and carried them down a steep trail leading to a large open field. Several of the volunteers stated they were afraid to return on this road next year. Therefore, next year we will only go as far as the main community. I thought upper Willow was great.
The locals remain of pure Inca blood. Their way of life has changed very little during the last few hundred years. Just across the valley, several original Inca terraces are visible.
They make their own bright colorful clothing. We noticed several women were spinning wool thread. They showed great hospitality and invited us inside an adobe house for a lunch of potatoes and soup. Their main source of income is from farming potatoes. What an amazing culture…rich in so many ways except material things.
The Peruvians who volunteered included older orphans plus Carla, her family and friends. We are so fortunate to have their dedication.
The Peruvian Orphan Fund also made a cash donation for the children’s education
Thousands of tourists from around the world visit Machu Picchu every day which is less than fifty miles distant. However, they will never see a more amazing place than this!
The Peruvian Orphan Fund, Inc. 