A Sea of Peruvian School Children

FRIDAY:
Yesterday was our first on-site exploration of Pre-Colombian settlements. From bricks of adobe and clay, the Inca, Lima, and Ichma cultures built the Huaca Pucclana pyramids--the remnants of a civilization that now serve as an archaeological attraction for those interested in the culture's unique landmarks. What our group did was measure the directional placements of particular walls with a nifty compass and GPS system in order to find out whether or not the walls were positioned in specific locations (perhaps indicating some sign of astronomical knowledge), or if their localities were merely decided upon convenience. We were able to take a tour through a section of the Huaca pyramids with a guide who spoke English (it's always exciting to come across a Peruvian with whom you can communicate)!

A playground for archaeologists (Friday June 12, 2015) 

Dr. Brown then let Savannah, Michael, and I roam around the Parque de las Leyendas--a zoo surrounding the Huaca settlement. There were a sea of Peruvian school children all throughout the park, more kids than I have ever seen in one place at one time. Though instead of observing and taking photos of the animals, the children preferred to stare at us as if we were the main attraction! They had no shame in coming up to us and practicing their English by asking if we could take pictures with them. I regret not getting a picture with them myself.

Here's ice cream and an otorongo (jaguar) instead! (Friday June 12, 2015)