Exciting international trips have become an integral part of the student experience at The Storm King School. They serve to enhance our academic and community service programs while adding another dimension to our vibrant student life. This year, during Thanksgiving Break, an intrepid group of students and faculty traveled to experience the rugged natural beauty, history, and culture of Peru.

Their eight-day excursion began in Peru’s capital city, Lima, which is rich in culture, delicious food, and shopping. Next, the group traveled to Cusco, then by train through the Andes Mountains where they zip-lined in Ollantaytambo (the Sacred Valley), explored the Inca Trail and Machu Picchu, learned to cook local foods like traditional Chuta bread, relaxed at a natural hot spring, and much more.

A highlight of the trip was the days spent serving the local community by helping out with maintenance, painting, and playing with the children at a local orphanage. “My favorite part of the trip was Machu Picchu,” commented one of the students. “The mountains and the views were amazing and beautiful. I am so happy that I got to see it in person.” “I liked working at the orphanage with the local kids. It was a lot of fun and I felt like we made a difference for them,” said another.

On their final day, the group returned to Lima where they had ample time to learn more about Peruvian culture and explore the city. One thing most of the travelers agreed on was the food and the friendship: “We won’t forget eating the delicious foods, especially the ones cooked on the fire served in clay pots. We got to try many new things and made new friends.”

For the next adventure, SKS will take students to the Galapagos Islands to explore its rich biodiversity in March of 2024 during the Spring Break Holiday.