Today was a long downhill day from the Wayra Lodge at 12,000 feet to the Collpa Lodge at 10,300 feet. The clouds did clear so we could see the beautiful setting where we spent last night.

Loading us the mules with our gear.

We didn't get rained on, but the morning was cloudy.

We began the descent from the mountains to the cloud forest.

 

This potato patch was on a steep hillside.

The trail was rocky, and the vegetation was tropical.

 

All along the way, we could hear the river roaring below.

 

When we arrived at the lodge, we were treated to a traditional Peruvian feast.

A fire is prepared and rocks heated to very high temperatures. Then the foods to be cooked (different kinds of potatoes, meats, fava beans, plantains) are covered with the hot rocks, cardboard, canvas tarps and dirt and left to cook for about 1/2 hour.

The cooking crew is removing the coverings.

And taking the food out.

The meats we sampled were chicken, beef, pork and guinea pig. There were 4 kinds of potatoes plus lots of other treats. They promised a light supper after this 2:30pm lunch!