PROGRAM PHOTO ALBUM
TIME CAPSULE LETTER
Dear Students,
As we prepare for the winter, we look back on our incredible journey in Patacancha and Ollantaytambo, Peru, and reflect on the profound impact you made during our time there. This letter serves as a time capsule, capturing the essence of our adventure and the meaningful experiences that will forever shape our lives.
Throughout our time in Ollantaytambo and Patacancha, you worked to clear space for a community room foundation, contributing to a project that will benefit generations to come. Your hard work and dedication did not go unnoticed, and the gratitude from the local community was heartwarming. It was a testament to the power of teamwork and the difference we can make when we come together for a common cause.
But the impact of this trip extended far beyond the physical work. We believe you built strong, lasting relationships with one another and with the members of the Patacancha community. They learned to communicate across cultural barriers, showing empathy and respect for different ways of life. Watching you all play with the children was heartwarming. These connections have left an indelible mark on your hearts, teaching the value of diversity and the importance of global citizenship.
We experience a wonder of the world together in Machu Picchu, rode some cool rapids, and many of you completed the Lares Trek. We saw the ruins in Ollantaytambo, and many of you practiced bartering skills.
Together, you set a meaningful goal: to stop being ungrateful, to continue trying your best and pushing yourself, and to start reflecting and showing appreciation. This goal became our guiding principle as we look beyond our time here in Peru. By embracing this mindset, we believe you have grown not only as individuals but as a collective group committed to making positive changes in the world around you.
We hope that the lessons learned and the values instilled during our time in Peru have inspired you to continue volunteering within your communities. If you haven’t started, maybe this note serves as a nudge. The spirit of service, gratitude, and perseverance is something we hope you carry with you always.
As we move forward, we send you all our love and best wishes for your future endeavors. May you always remember the impact you made, the friendships forged, and the goals you set. We are confident that you will continue to make a difference in the world, fueled by the experiences and memories from our incredible journey together.
Remember a few things:
Leadership starts with you but it isn’t about you.
You are the future of the world.
Love ya big!
With warmest regards,
Jayme, Smith, and Warren
Global Leadership Adventures
Thanks for the checking out the blog for this Global Leadership Adventures program!
Here are a few things to know and expect:
- Blog posts are written by onsite program staff and/or students and sent to our Headquarters team who will post the blog on this page.
- We typically receive 2-3 blog updates per week from each program, so please don’t be alarmed if you don’t see a blog post every day – that’s totally normal.
- Blog updates received late in the evening or overnight will be posted the following day.
- Blog updates received on weekends may not be posted until Monday.
- Due to many factors such as internet accessibility, program staff aren’t always able to send photos, so some blog posts may contain text only.
Thank you for your patience and understanding, and we hope you enjoy following along on these unforgettable adventures.
For frequently asked questions about the blogs, please visit our Program Blog FAQ page.
-The Global Leadership Adventures HQ Team
Click here to jump down to the most recent post!
BLOG POST FOR JUNE 18
Ready to Welcome Your Teens in Cusco!
Dear Parents,
We are thrilled that tomorrow is the big day! Our team is all set and eagerly waiting to meet your wonderful teenagers at the airport in Cusco. As they embark on this incredible journey with Global Leadership Adventures, we can’t wait to greet them at the airport and kick off our adventure together.
Upon arrival, they’ll spot us easily—we’ll be wearing our blue Global Leadership Adventures shirts and holding up signs to ensure we can quickly and smoothly locate each student. Rest assured, we’ll be there to provide a warm welcome and help them feel at home right away.
Once we gather everyone, we’ll head to the beautiful and historic Ollantaytambo. This will be the perfect start to our adventure, offering breathtaking views and fascinating cultural experiences. We know your teens are going to love it!
To keep you informed and connected, your teens will be reaching out to you from the airport in Cusco. Expect to hear from them shortly after they land so they can let you know they’ve arrived safely and are ready for the exciting journey ahead. A blog post will be written tomorrow so you can see all of their shining faces from our home base in Ollantaytambo.
Thank you for entrusting us with your teenagers. We are committed to ensuring they have an enriching, safe, and unforgettable experience. We can’t wait to meet them!
BLOG POST FOR JUNE 19
Welcome to Peru: Safe Arrival and Exciting Beginnings
We are thrilled to announce that all the teenagers have arrived safely in Peru! Our journey began with a warm welcome at our beautiful home base, nestled in the heart of Ollantaytambo. Today has been an exciting day filled with new experiences and the start of lasting friendships. Even the ride to our base was beautiful.
Our afternoon kicked off with a comprehensive orientation to the program. Everyone was attentive and eager to learn about the adventures that lie ahead. Before our orientation, we had a chance to tour our stunning home base, which boasts breathtaking views of the snow-capped mountains and the ancient ruins of Ollantaytambo. The scenery here is truly awe-inspiring and provides the perfect backdrop for our time in Peru.
Lunch was a delightful introduction to Peruvian cuisine. We enjoyed a hearty meal of soup, chicken, and rice. Many students took the opportunity to try Coca Leaf tea, a traditional drink that not only offers a taste of Peruvian culture but also helps to prevent altitude sickness.
Throughout the day, students mingled and began forming new friendships. The excitement and positive energy were contagious as everyone shared their stories and anticipation for the days to come. Although all students have arrived safely, Simon was not pictured with the group due to his later arrival time. We’re looking forward to having him join in the fun tomorrow.
As the sun sets over the Andes, we can’t help but feel a sense of gratitude for this incredible opportunity. Tomorrow promises to be another day of adventure and discovery, and we can’t wait to see what it holds! Tomorrow we tour the ruins!
Stay tuned for more updates from our amazing journey in Peru!
BLOG POST FOR JUNE 20
Day 2: Exploring Ollantaytambo, Peru
Hey everyone!
Our second day in Ollantaytambo was filled with adventure, learning, and some much-needed connection (both to the internet and to each other).
Morning at the Temple of the Sun
We started our day with a visit to the awe-inspiring Incan ruins of the Temple of the Sun. The intricate stonework and the sheer scale of the temple left us all in awe. It was fascinating to learn about the history and significance of the site, and we couldn’t help but imagine what it must have been like during the height of the Incan Empire.
Café Chill Time
After exploring the ruins, we took a break at a local café with some internet time. It was nice to catch up with friends and family back home, share our experiences with loved ones, play games, and enjoy some delicious local coffee and ice cream.
Lunch and Local Flavors
For lunch, we headed to a nearby restaurant where we indulged in traditional Peruvian dishes. The flavors were incredible, and we enjoyed trying new foods. The atmosphere was warm and welcoming, making it a perfect place to recharge before our afternoon activities.
City and Market Walk
Post-lunch, we strolled through the city and its vibrant market. The streets were bustling with activity, and the market was a sensory overload in the best way possible. We saw beautiful textiles, handmade crafts, and colorful weaving. Some bought warm hats- it’s been a bit cold here. Brrrrr! We also got some alpaca wool souvenirs.
A Step Back in Time: The Guinea Pig House
One of the highlights of the day was visiting the “Guinea Pig House,” an original and intact Incan home. It was like stepping back in time, and we were fascinated by how well-preserved the house was. It was a unique glimpse into daily life during the Incan era.
Evening Ceremony
As the sun set, we gathered for a powerful ceremony to set our intentions for our time in Peru. It was a moving experience, and we all felt a deep sense of gratitude for being part of this journey. The ceremony helped us reflect on our purpose and the impact we hope to make during our stay.
Dinner and Leadership Activity
We ended our evening with a delicious dinner at Tierra Inka Hotel. Afterward, we participated in a leadership activity called “Social Sync,” where we discussed the importance of disconnecting from our phones and social media to be more present in the moment. It was an eye-opening conversation and gave us a lot to think about.
Mentor Meeting
Our day concluded with a thirty-minute mentor meeting facilitated by our group leaders. It was a great opportunity to reflect on our experiences today, share our thoughts, and prepare for the days ahead.
We’re all looking forward to our first service day in Patacancha tomorrow! Stay tuned for more updates.
Hasta luego!
BLOG POST FOR JUNE 21
Day Three: First Service Day in Patacancha, Peru
Today marked our first official service day in Patacancha, and it was nothing short of incredible. The morning started with a warm and welcoming ceremony where the Patacanchan citizens dressed us in their beautiful traditional clothing. This was followed by an energetic dance session with the townspeople, which was a fantastic way to bond and start our day. We even got to give some belly rubs to their adorable four-legged friends, which added to the joyful atmosphere.
Our main task for the day was helping Señor Juan move a significant amount of dirt and rock. This was all in preparation for the foundation of a new community room that will be completed by the three sessions of GLA students. It was hard work, but seeing the progress we made was incredibly rewarding.
Midday, we were treated to a delicious lunch prepared by Señor Juan’s wife. The meal included locally sourced trout, potatoes, cheese, and a mouthwatering soup. It was a perfect refuel for our hardworking team. After lunch, we had the opportunity to learn about traditional remedies through a fascinating tea-making class, which was both informative and relaxing.
Despite the colder-than-usual temperatures and spitting rain, we accomplished a lot today. The work was tough, but every student had a smile on their face and maintained a positive attitude throughout. After returning to our home base, we took some much-needed rest and showers before heading out to a lovely dinner in town.
The evening concluded with a thought-provoking debate-style leadership activity led by our mentor, Warren. The topic was the Lares Trek, and it sparked engaging discussions among us. As we prepare for another service day tomorrow, we are excited to see the progress we can make and the impact we can have on this wonderful community.
Everyone is in high spirits, looking forward to what lies ahead. It’s amazing to see how much we can achieve together, even in just one day.
BLOG POST FOR JUNE 22
Day 4: Being ROCK Stars in Patacancha… because we moved a LOT of rocks!
Today was an incredible day here in Peru with our amazing group of fifteen teens. I have to say, they were absolute ROCK stars as they wielded pick axes and shovels to clear space for the foundation of a community room in Patacancha. Their hard work and determination were truly inspiring, and I couldn’t be prouder of these young leaders. You have raised a great bunch and I am grateful that you have shared them with us!
When we took breaks, it was heartwarming to see our students playing with the local children who came to watch us work. We played trucks and ring around the rosie. A smile was all the common language we needed! The connection shared between them bridged cultures and created lasting memories for sure.
After our productive morning, we embarked on a road trip to Pisac, where we learned about Peruvian culture even more. We stopped to learn about a traditional Peruvian drink made of corn and played a throwing game. We held our own and showed off our skills! And of course, we couldn’t miss trying a Peruvian staple, cuy (guinea pig). Several students were brave enough to try this delicacy, adding another adventurous chapter to our journey.
Exploring Pisac’s vibrant market was a highlight, where we got to practice our Spanish skills and engage in the art of bartering with the locals. The energy and colors of the market were invigorating and helped us to understand the Peruvian way of life. Many of us, parched by our day’s work tried the Inka Kola drink which is a local favorite.
Our day concluded with a dinner at a local restaurant in Ollantaytambo, where we experienced more Peruvian flavors and shared stories of the day’s adventures. We then gathered for a value-sort activity led by Jayme, followed by our mentor groups, where we reflected on our values and today’s experiences, making each moment count on this remarkable journey.
BLOG POST FOR JUNE 23
Day 5: Ollantaytambo, Peru
Hello everyone,
We really ROCK-ed today! Our group tackled a ginormous pile of rocks to level the foundation for the community room we’re building. It was tough work, but your teens showed incredible determination and teamwork. Their efforts paid off, and the progress we’ve made is impressive!
After we finished our work for the day, we were in for a treat. We watched a fútbol match in Patacancha and were recognized by the community for our contributions. The highlight was the surprise of dressing up in traditional Andean clothing again. The photos from today capture not only our hard work but also the fun we had immersing ourselves in the local culture and enjoying the local children and pets again.
In the afternoon, we returned to Ollantaytambo for some well-deserved free time. Some of us played soccer, while others explored the local market to prepare for our upcoming trek. We also enjoyed a relaxing break at a coffee shop, where we took advantage of the Wi-Fi. We hope your teens took the opportunity to give you a call!
Our evening wrapped up with a briefing on the Lares trek. We’re all excited and looking forward to this adventure. Please note that during the trek, there will be no internet access for the blog, and cell service will be unavailable for the students in the evenings. We do have an emergency phone with us, and you can expect to hear from us again through the blog once we return from Machu Picchu!
I want to take a moment to say how amazing your kids are. I’m impressed by their hard work, grit, and the smiles they keep on their faces, even during tough tasks. They are truly remarkable.
Until next time!
BLOG POST FOR JUNE 24 & 25
Day 6 and 7: The Lares Trail Adventure
Hello from Peru!
The last two days have been a whirlwind of adventure and achievement as our group of fifteen incredible teens trekked the Lares Trail. Parents, you should be extremely proud of your children as they faced and conquered challenges with resilience and grit.
Starting the Lares Trail
We kicked off our journey at around 11,000 feet, surrounded by breathtaking scenery and eager to explore the trail ahead. Meal times were a highlight, with delicious three-course meals that kept our energy up and spirits high. The students enjoyed traditional Peruvian dishes, which added to the richness of the experience.
Wildlife and Nature
As we hiked, we were greeted by various animals, including alpacas, horses, sheep, and friendly dogs. The sight of these animals added a special touch to our journey and provided excellent photo opportunities.
Climbing to New Heights
The Lares Trek was not without its challenges. We ascended to a peak of around 15,000 feet, which is higher than most of the students had ever been before. The altitude was humbling, and we took regular breaks to rest and acclimate. These breaks were essential for regaining energy and ensuring everyone’s well-being.
Night Under the Stars
One of the most unforgettable moments was the night we spent under the stars. The untouched landscape offered a spectacular view of the Milky Way and the stars, a sight that left everyone in awe. Bundled up against the cold, we marveled at the beauty of the night sky, creating memories that will last a lifetime.
Perseverance and Bonding
Despite the extreme temperatures and physical challenges, every student pushed through with determination. We faced stomachaches, headaches, blisters, and sunburn, but the support and encouragement within the group was unwavering. The steep inclines tested our endurance, but reaching the top was immensely rewarding.
Three students chose to return to home base to enjoy pizza and bonding time, which provided them a chance to recover from the altitude.
This trek was a once-in-a-lifetime bonding experience. The students demonstrated remarkable perseverance, supporting each other through the tough moments and celebrating their achievements together.
Looking Ahead
As we wrap up our trek on the Lares Trail, we are filled with a sense of accomplishment and anticipation. Tomorrow, we will be visiting Machu Picchu, a highlight of our trip that everyone is eagerly looking forward to.
Best regards,
The GLA Team
Leaders of the Trek:
Isabelle Zimmerman & Evalyn Grocki
BLOG POST FOR JUNE 26
Day 8 Blog: Discovering Machu Picchu and Embracing Delays
Hello parents,
Today was an unforgettable day for our group of adventurers in Peru! On June 26th, we started our journey early, loading a train by 10:30 am for a picturesque ride to Aguas Calientes. The scenery was breathtaking as we traveled through the stunning Peruvian landscape, as we moved from high altitude to several thousand feet lower we went from arid and mountainous to humid and jungle. We loved being on the edge of the Amazon.
Upon reaching Aguas Calientes, we hopped on a bus that took us up winding roads to the top of the mountain. From there, we embarked on a climb up many, many, MANY stairs, and then we saw it—one of the wonders of the world, Machu Picchu. The sight was truly awe-inspiring and worth every minute of our trip there!
Our knowledgeable guides shared fascinating Inkan secrets and history with us, giving us a deeper appreciation for the ancient ways of life. We still can’t believe they were able to do so much without the landmovers of today. As we explored the ruins, we couldn’t help but notice the numerous tourists striking poses for Instagram. Holding back our snickers, we decided to join in the fun and recreated some of the poses we saw and we kept a straight face! It was a beautiful time, filled with laughter and the realization that this might be a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
Our day wasn’t without its challenges. We faced a three-hour train delay on our way back, but the students made the most of it. They spent the time chatting, hanging out, resting and even enjoying their phones despite the lack of signal. It was a great opportunity for bonding and relaxation after an eventful day.
We finally made it back to home base, safe, fulfilled, and grateful for the experiences we’ve had. The next two days will be dedicated to completing our service hours in Patacancha, where we look forward to making a positive impact.
Thank you for your continued support. We can’t wait to share more about our adventures with you!
Warm regards,
Your GLA Team
BLOG POST FOR JUNE 27
Day 9: Building Bricks and Strengthening Bonds
Greetings from Peru!
Today marked the 4th of our 5 service days in Patacancha, and what a day it was! Our hardworking teens dedicated themselves to the labor-intensive and delightfully messy task of building mud bricks. Together, we managed to create an impressive 73 bricks, which will soon become the walls of the community room we’ve been tirelessly working on. It’s incredible to see the progress we’ve made and to know that our efforts will leave a lasting impact on this community.
After a productive day of brick-building, we returned to our home base and dove into the “Communication Olympics.” This fun and challenging activity tested our teamwork and communication skills in various ways. We tackled the human knot, completing it in just over 4 minutes, and successfully managed the human chair on our first try. The helium hoop proved to be a tougher challenge, and while we never quite completed it, we had a lot of laughs and learned a lot about patience and persistence.
Next, we engaged in a drawing activity where we focused on being very descriptive with our language. This exercise highlighted the importance of clear communication and how our messages can be best understood. We also had a meaningful discussion about perspective, exploring how our life experiences shape the way we view other environments and cultures as we travel. It was a powerful reminder of the importance of empathy and open-mindedness in our global adventures.
We wrapped up the night with games and a lively karaoke session. It was heartwarming to see the boys belt out every word of Moana, bringing smiles and laughter to everyone.
As we look forward to our final service day tomorrow, we can’t wait to analyze all that we have accomplished and reflect on the impact we’ve made. Stay tuned for more updates!
Warm regards,
The GLA Peru Team
BLOG POST FOR JUNE 28
Day 10: Our Final Service Day in Patacancha
Dear Parents,
Greetings from Peru! Today marked the culmination of our service efforts in Patacancha, and what a day it was! It’s hard to believe, but we managed to move even more rocks, making significant progress on the community room foundation. The determination and teamwork your teens demonstrated was truly inspiring.
Our hard work was followed by a unique and heartfelt experience—a private weaving demonstration by the talented local artisans. We watched in awe as they skillfully crafted beautiful woven items, and many of us couldn’t resist purchasing some as souvenirs and gifts. It was a special way to connect with the people we’ve been helping and to take a piece of this incredible community back home with us.
In a touching gesture, the community prepared a special meal for us. We shared heartfelt goodbyes knowing this isn’t truly goodbye if we keep these memories and experiences in our hearts. The bonds formed over these past days will be cherished for a lifetime.
Upon returning to our home base, the fun didn’t stop. We had an energetic dance class where everyone let loose and embraced the vibrant spirit of Peruvian culture. The day wrapped up with a leadership-style activity by Jayme, followed by engaging discussions in our mentor groups. These conversations have been crucial in reflecting on our experiences and personal growth throughout this journey.
Tomorrow, we head to Cusco for the next adventure! Thank you for your continued support and for encouraging these incredible teens to be a part of this life-changing experience.
Best regards,
The GLA Team
BLOG POST FOR JUNE 29 & JUNE 30
June 29th & 30th: Salt Mines, City Tours, and Adventure!
Dear Parents,
Greetings from Peru! It has been an incredible journey, and we have so much to share from the past two days. The teens are learning and creating memories that will last a lifetime.
June 29th: Maras Salt Mines and Exploring Cusco
Yesterday, we embarked on a fascinating visit to the Maras salt mines. These ancient salt pools, nestled in the Sacred Valley, offered a unique glimpse into the traditional methods of salt extraction that have been used for centuries. The teens were interested in the intricate process and enjoyed wandering through the sparkling salt terraces. Many of us couldn’t resist purchasing some delicious souvenirs to bring a taste of Peru back home.
After our exploration of the salt mines, we headed back to Cusco. Our guide, Smith, led us on an informative walking tour around the city. Cusco’s rich history and vibrant culture came alive through Smith’s engaging stories. The teens were shown the blend of Incan and Spanish architecture that defines this historic city. We wrapped up the day with some free time to explore Cusco’s charming streets, shop for local crafts, and soak in the lively atmosphere.
June 30th: White Water Rafting and Ziplining Adventure
Today was packed with thrilling activities that tested our courage and teamwork. We started with an exhilarating white water rafting experience on class 2 and 3 rapids. The teens showed incredible bravery as they navigated the freezing waters, their spirits high despite the cold. After conquering the rapids, we warmed up in a cozy sauna, sharing stories and laughter as we thawed out.
In the afternoon, we switched gears to ziplining. Soaring above the stunning Peruvian landscape was a highlight for many, offering breathtaking views and an adrenaline rush. The teens’ enthusiasm was contagious, and their encouragement for one another was inspiring to witness. They even cheered for me as I tried ziplining in spite of me fear of heights.
This evening, we enjoyed dinner at our hotel. The meal was a wonderful opportunity to relax and reflect on our adventures. Afterward, Warren led a leadership activity that fostered reflection and growth. The teens engaged thoughtfully, sharing insights and supporting each other’s learning.
We concluded our night with our final mentor group session of the trip. It was a heartfelt time to discuss our experiences, share personal growth, and express gratitude for the journey we’ve shared. The bonds formed during this trip are strong, and it’s clear that these teens have made lifelong friends.
As we prepare to return home, know that your teens have grown immensely, both as individuals and as a team. They have embraced every challenge, celebrated every triumph, and supported one another with kindness and compassion. We are immensely proud of each and every one of them.
They are looking forward to seeing you all soon and sharing more stories from our incredible adventure in Peru.
BLOG POST FOR JULY 1
Final Blog: A Heartfelt Farewell from Peru
Dear Parents,
As our unforgettable journey in Peru comes to an end, we wanted to share the highlights of our final day together. It has been an incredible experience, filled with growth, adventure, and lasting memories.
Our day began with the bittersweet task of packing and organizing our belongings. For lunch, we revisited our favorite restaurant, Uchucuta. The familiar flavors and warm atmosphere made for a perfect final meal out together. It was a time to reflect on the many shared meals and conversations that have brought us closer as a group.
In the afternoon, our students engaged in an activity called OMG, or One Meaningful Goal. Each student set a personal goal to carry forward from this experience. It was inspiring to hear their aspirations and see how much they’ve grown. This exercise emphasized the impact of our time in Peru and the lessons learned along the way.
We spent the remainder of the day celebrating our successes and the strength of our group. The appreciation circle was a deeply emotional moment for everyone. Tears flowed as we expressed our gratitude for each other, highlighting the unique contributions and support within our team. We concluded the circle with a spirited “Vamos Equipo” for Jayme and a heartfelt group hug, solidifying the unity and camaraderie we’ve built.
As the night approached, we gathered for dinner of pizza and flan. We even attempted to recreate the classic s’mores experience, which was a first for Smith, our Local Director. Despite being far from home, the s’mores brought a touch of familiarity and joy to our evening.
As the night wound down, we shared more tears, listened to music, and reflected on our time together. The sentiment, “It’s not goodbye, it’s see you later,” resonated deeply with everyone. The connections we’ve made here are not bound by geography; they will continue to thrive as we return to our respective homes.
Thank you for entrusting us with your incredible teens. They have shown resilience, compassion, and an eagerness to learn and grow. This journey has been transformative, and we are immensely proud of each and every one of them.
With heartfelt gratitude,
Smith, Warren, and Jayme
