Alberto took us to the local market in Ollantaytambo. It was really interesting. We bought apples, cheese, buns, oatmeal, sugar and milk. We then drove along a narrow, rickety road across the valley and river and up to Cachiccata. Alberto had called ahead so they had a very large pot of water on the fire ready when we got there. Because it was Sunday , and not a school day, it was set up in a yard. Soon after we arrived word got out that we were here and the children started arrriving, with a cup in their hand. They ranged in age from 2 to 16 and there were about 35 children altogether.
While waiting for the oatmeal to cook we handed out the apples. Diane and I had brought school supplies . Canada souvenirs and some fun things. We had 3 bottles of bubbles which they enjoyed trying to catch and also some balls and a soft football which the boys enjoyed playing with.
Then the oatmeal was ready, they make it more as a drink. They all sat around eating and drinking. We took lots of pictures of the children and they liked seeing themselves on the camera. They sang a couple songs for us. They were all really polite and happy and laughing. We then had to say goodbye. It was a great experience visiting with the children and we would highly recommend to everyone.
We had a fabulous lunch at a nearby community restaurant and then had some free time in town.
We watched some local costumed dancers and bands that we happened upon. They were very good.
We had a delicious supper at the Heart Cafe in the main plaza of Ollantaytambo. I will miss this town, it is very peaceful and beautiful.
Tonight we pack for our hike! Vidal had given us each a duffel bag for our things the porters will carry and we get our daypacks ready also. There is a full moon tonight, and FYI the phases of the moon rotate the opposite way on this side of the equator.
