Following her time in the Galapagos Katrina flew into Ecuador, where she explored the City of Quito and visited the Monument of the Middle World and saw fascinating water demonstrations related to the equator, that works even though the monument is no longer precisely on the equator. Katrina also explored Cotopaxi and got a feel for being at high altitudes.
Moving on, Katrina explored Lima, the Sacred Valley, Cuzco, and Machu Picchu in Peru. She spoke enthusiastically about the Inca civilization's architectural feats and history. Climbing Huayna Picchu provided breathtaking views, but a close call with a sliding backpacker highlighted the importance of caution.
The journey continued to Lake Titicaca, where she visited the Reed Islands and the famous Sun Island and met the Uros people, who lived traditionally on their floating bed of reads.
Argentina and Brazil were part of the adventure, visiting churches and other unique buildings. She thought South American Catholicism seemed to be a blend of traditional Catholicism and local religious tradition. Football excitement invaded Rio de Janeiro in the form of more than a hundred thousand Argentinians visiting Brazil for a game between the two countries.
When asked about local foods, Katrina mentioned eating alpaca, while her friend tried guinea pig.
Despite travel warnings, Katrina said she felt surprisingly safe. Contrary to the cautionary tales, she found the warnings exaggerated compared to her actual experience, feeling safe and encountering helpful people.
Katrina left us with no doubt that a trip to South America should be on everyone's bucket list.
