Recap of Mountain School 2023

Mountain School is our week-long program of outdoor adventure during winter break in July for teenagers currently enrolled in secondary school. During this camp, participants learn the basics of camp craft, hiking, wilderness first aid, and rock climbing while also learning to work together as a team, discover their leadership style, practice problem solving skills, think critically, utilize sustainability skills, and develop effective communication through outdoor fun. 

This year we had thirteen diverse and excited participants join us in our Urubamba base camp. During the five days, we hiked to Yanacocha, a beautiful lake above the community of Huayoccari, climbed sport routes and practiced repelling in the community of Pachar, learned how to cook outdoors by making hot chocolate on our camp stoves, and participated in personal development games every morning and evening. 

One of the highlights was visiting the high Andean community of Tastayoc where we walked to an alpine lake to discover the local flora and fauna. At the base of the iconic snowy mountain, we observed a variety of birds, talked about water filtration, learned the principles of “Leave No Trace,” and shared a hearty snack. Following the hike, we returned and enjoyed the traditional meal, “Pachamanca,” which means potatoes, meat, and plantains “cooked in the earth,” with a local family who has lived in the area for several generations. It was a profound moment to learn from one another, deepen our connection with the land, and recognize the beauty and importance of diversity. 

Of our thirteen participants, eight came on scholarship, five are native Quechua speakers from high Andean communities, and three are native English speakers. Even with their differences, the campers built close relationships, and we ended the program feeling like family. Thank you to our donors who provided funding for scholarships. Our campers are so grateful!