Another successful D-E 360° 8th Grade Spring Break Trip is in the books! Of the 8-day trip to Peru, Middle School Math Teacher and Chaperone Jon Egan, who has organized trips to the South American country since 2011, said this was “one of the best trips I’ve had with 8th graders in 15 years.” Excursions included seeing ancient Inca structures in towns such as Ollantaytambo; riding the Peru Rail train to Aguas Calientes for dinner and shopping; taking a scenic bus ride to Machu Picchu, where students explored the many fascinating ruins, including the farming terraces and a temple dedicated to the gods; and hiking Rainbow Mountains, almost 17,000 feet in altitude, where they summited a stunning waterfall and enjoyed the views of distant glaciers and snow-capped mountains.

The group’s two amazing guides shared insights into the mysteries of the Inca civilization and rituals. During the camping portion of the trip, students passed the time with boys vs. girls soccer games, campfire stories, and making fresh popcorn and biscuits. Memorable stops in town included a chocolate factory, a textile center, and restaurants that served Peruvian specialties like alpaca and guinea pig. The trip concluded with visits to the Qorikancha Museum and the Q’enco Archaeological Complex in Cusco. It was a trip we hope our student explorers won’t soon forget!