Welcome! Table of Contents. Your journey begins here

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1 Table of Contents 5 Days / 4 Nights Itinerary Days / 6 Nights Itinerary...7 Trekking Route Map Preparing for the Adventure Packing List Guides, Briefing, Description Travel Insurance Yanapana Peru Contact Information Welcome! Your journey begins here Mountain Lodges of Peru invites you on a cultural exploration of the Urubamba Valley, the celebrated Sacred Valley of the Incas, and the spectacular archaeological site of Machu Picchu, combined with a hike in the less visited and uncrowded Lares region north of Cusco, noted for its rural atmosphere, traditional weavers attired in colorful dress, and roving herds of alpacas and llamas an authentic slice of Peruvian life. Comfortable mountain lodges serve as deluxe base camps for daily hikes that bring you to remote passes with views of a panorama of waterfalls, snow peaks, and turquoise glacial lakes, with the occasional condor soaring above, and to tiny Andean highland communities unchanged for centuries, where you can meet local weavers and farmers and get a glimpse of the distant past. We offer unique adventures, ideal for a variety of hiking levels and abilities. At day s end, relax in a comfortable lodge with wonderful amenities it s the best of both worlds! Expert guides travel with the group for the entire journey and share their knowledge of natural history, culture, and local traditions. All itineraries include explorations of the breathtaking Inca sites of Pisac, with its remarkable stone structures, Ollantaytambo, where the rebel Inca leader Manco Inca defeated the Spanish in battle, and incomparable Machu Picchu, the crowning glory of the Incas and the archaeological wonder of all South America. For the most comprehensive experience, we recommend our seven-day journey. Short on time? Join our five-day journey which still includes the most iconic Inca sites of Sacred Valley and the best trails of Lares. Weekly departures from March to December. 2

2 5 DAYS / 4 NIGHTS ITINERARY DAY 1 Sacred Valley: Explore the Pisac Valley & Ruins Photo: Snow capped peaks of Lares After an early breakfast, we depart Cusco for the Urubamba Valley, the Sacred Valley of the Incas. We drive past Pisac and turn off the main road at Qoya (9,514 /2,900m), with its charming colonial church. After about a 1.5-hour drive (the last section on a dirt road), we reach the AyarCancha community where we start hiking at an elevation of 12,467 feet (3,800m). The trail winds uphill for two hours to Challwaccasa Pass (13,943 /4,250m), which grants us great views of the peaks of the Vilcanota and Vilcabamba mountain ranges and, in the distance, the giant snow-capped peaks of Ausangate and Salcantay. We then head downhill to the community of Viacha (12,795 /3,900m), where we enjoy a gourmet lunch. After a well-earned rest, we join a restored Inca trail that leads to the stunning archaeological site of Pisac (10,826 / 3200m), which dominates the valley below. The lower slopes of the surrounding mountains feature impressive agricultural terraces and irrigation systems dating from Inca times. After exploring the ruins we continue downhill for an hour to the picturesque village of Pisac (9,750 /2,972m), well known for its colorful handicraft market held on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Sundays. Our vehicle will be waiting to take us to the town of Lamay (9,649 /2,941m), where we overnight at a comfortable lodge. Dinner and overnight at Lamay Lodge. 6 hours (including lunch) OPTIONAL ACTIVITIES ON DAY 1 In the event that a guest does not feel like hiking or prefers an easier hike for their first day of trekking, we suggest the following alternative: If guests would like to take it easy on their first day, they can enjoy a leisurely breakfast and relaxing morning at the Lamay Lodge. In the early afternoon a private van takes us to join the group of trekkers for lunch at Viacha community, this exquisite meal should not be missed! If after lunch guests are feeling active they may join the other trekkers for the hike downhill towards Pisaq archeological site 3

3 DAY 2 Lares: Trek from Quiswarani to Huacawasi, High Mountain Lakes & Villages A great day awaits us as we hike one of the most beautiful trails in the Cusco region! We depart Lamay early in the morning and take a scenic two-hour drive toward Lares, the region north of the Sacred Valley. Leaving the main road, we soon arrive at the quaint village of Quiswarani (12,562 /3,829m), where we begin our hike. Our trail heads westward up a small valley dotted with lakes and herds of grazing alpacas, then narrows into a series of switchbacks to Abra Huchuyccasa pass (14,481 /4,414m), which we reach after three hours. From the pass we have the most amazing views of distant mountain ranges and stunning turquoise lakes, whose brilliant hues are the result of bronze metal elements in their icy waters. Descending slightly, we continue hiking another hour toward our second pass of the day at Phoñaccasa (14,393 /4,387m). From here we descend to Qeywaqocha Lake for a leisurely lunch, then end our hike at the village of Qelqena (11,965 /3,647m). Along the way enjoy spotting native bird species, including Andean geese, ducks, and plovers. Our vehicle meets us at the trailhead for the drive to the famous weavers village of Huacawasi (12,467 /3,800m). Dinner and overnight at Huacawasi Lodge. 8 hours (including lunch) Photo: Views from Huchuyccasa Pass In the event that a guest prefers a softer hike, we suggest the following alternative: optional hike on day 2 Lares: trek from cuncani to huacawasi, meet the communities A short drive brings us to Ancasmarca (13,267 /4,044m), where we explore an old Inca site that features a variety of ancient food warehouses, dwellings, and farming areas. Its location was strategic since it connected the higher part of the Sacred Valley with the cloud forest communities of Lares. Heading over the Lares Pass (14,501 /4,420m), we arrive at Cuncani (12,742 /3,884m), the starting point of our hike. Walking uphill for about two hours, we pass farmhouses and fields. The local inhabitants, descendants of the Incas, have maintained their traditional way of life, growing an amazing variety of potatoes nearly year-round and using their llamas as transportation and alpacas as food and clothing. Reaching Cruzccasa Pass (13,740 /4,188m), we enjoy an impressive view of Veronica peak, then have an hour s descent to our picnic lunch spot. Another hour s hike brings us to Huacawasi Lodge (12,467 /3,800m). In the late afternoon, we have an opportunity to experience a unique cultural encounter with the local community. Dinner and overnight at Huacawasi Lodge. total hiking time: 5 hours (including lunch) 4

4 Photo: Porter in traditional woven poncho Photo: Alpacas on the Lares trails DAY 3 Lares: Trek from Huacawasi to Patacancha, the Weavers Trail Huacawasi is a famous weavers village, where the men still wear traditional colorful ponchos and women s attire includes wide handmade skirts and decorated hats. Our hike starts right from Huacawasi Lodge, and as we walk through the village we are immersed in scenes of community life, including women working on looms and children heading to school. The wide and easy trail takes us uphill for 2.5 hours to the top of Ipsaycocha Pass (14,573 /4,442m) where we enjoy stunning views of the surrounding mountains. As we hike, we often meet locals traveling from village to village with their goods and herds of animals. We descend gently for about 40 minutes to Lake Ipsaycocha (14,081 /4,292m) where we may have the chance to see condors circling effortlessly in the sky while enjoying our lunch. We continue our descent for 2.5 hours to the village of Patacancha (12,624 /3,848m) where high quality weavings are also produced. Our vehicle will meet us here to take us to the Inca town of Ollantaytambo (9,160 /2,792m) in the Sacred Valley. Dinner and overnight at a hotel. 6.5 hours (including lunch) 5

5 DAY 4 Explore Ollantaytambo Inca Sites and Transfer to Machu Picchu Town After our three-day hike, we can enjoy a more relaxing day by having a leisurely breakfast and visiting Ollantaytambo, which boasts an impressive archaeological site and a wellpreserved Inca town structure. This was the estate of Emperor Pachacutec who conquered the region, building the town and the ceremonial center. Ollantaytambo dates from the late 15th century and has some of the oldest continuously occupied dwellings in South America. After lunch at the hotel, we catch our train for the 1.5-hour ride to Aguas Calientes, also known as Machu Picchu town. Dinner and overnight at Inkaterra Pueblo Hotel. Optional hike for the hard-core trekkers: OPTIONAL HIKE ON DAY 4 Sacred Valley: Hike Inca trails above Ollantaytambo and Transfer to Machu Picchu Town A short drive brings us to the settlement of Pallata (10,236 /3,120m), from where we hike gradually uphill to Pumamarca (10,498 /3,200m), a small and little visited Inca archaeological site overlooking the Patacancha Valley. After exploring the site we hike downhill for about three hours through extensive Inca-built agricultural terraces and along an old Inca trail back to Ollantaytambo. After lunch at our hotel, we explore on foot the town s magnificent ruins, including the fortress, the ceremonial center, and the town itself, once an Inca capital and the last stronghold against the Spanish conquerors. In the late afternoon, we catch our train for the 1.5-hour ride to Aguas Calientes, also known as Machu Picchu town. Dinner and overnight at the Inkaterra Pueblo Hotel. 4.5 hours DAY 5 Visit Machu Picchu Sanctuary and Return to Cusco After a very early breakfast at the hotel, we walk to the bus station for the 30-minute ride up to Machu Picchu Sanctuary. Our trip leader will give an introductory two-hour guided tour of the evocative ruins, after which we have the option of climbing the sheer Inca staircase of Huayna Picchu, a steep and vertically quite challenging hike that affords encompassing views of Machu Picchu and the surrounding mountain ranges (about a two-hour hike). Afterwards, we meet up with our guide again and return by bus to Aguas Calientes for a late lunch. The afternoon train ride from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo takes about 1.5 hours, and then a private vehicle drives us back to Cusco (an additional 1.5 hours). Upon arrival in Cusco (approximately 7 or 8 p.m.), we are dropped off at El Mercado Tunqui Hotel (or other hotel of your choice) for overnight. Photo: Early morning at Machu Picchu Sanctuary 6

6 7 DAYS / 6 NIGHTS ITINERARY DAY 1 Sacred Valley: Explore Chinchero and Huchuyqosqo Photo: Temple complex at Huchuyqosqo After an early breakfast, we depart Cusco for the village of Chinchero, where we stop for a brief visit of the Inca archeological site and the 16th century colonial church. A short drive to the small community of Taucca (12,631 /3,850m) brings us to the start of our scenic hike, which includes views of beautiful Lake Piuray and the Urubamba and Vilcabamba mountain ranges. We hike for about 2.5 hours uphill to Huallata Pass (14,107 /4,300m) and on to Huchuyqosqo Pass, from where we can see the spectacular Sacred Valley of the Incas. We start our descent to Huchuyqosqo (11,811 /3,600m), once an important religious and commercial center, and known as the place to observe thunder and lightning. After lunch, we continue our descent for about an hour to the community of Calca (10,170 /3,100m). On this section of the trail we may enjoy views of the Pitusiray and Sahuasiray glaciers. Our vehicles will meet us at the end of the hike and take us to the lush green town of Lamay (9,649 /2,941m). Dinner and overnight at Lamay Lodge. 7 hours (including lunch) In the event that a guest prefers a softer hike for their first day of trekking, we suggest the following alternative: OPTIONAL HIKE ON DAY 1 Explore the site of Moray and the salt mines of Maras After an early breakfast, we depart Cusco for the village of Chinchero, where we stop for a brief visit of the Inca archeological site and the 16th century colonial church. Then we will have a short drive to the small community of Taucca, where we say goodbye to the group doing the Huchuyqosqo hike. Another 30-minute drive takes us to the start of our day s tour. We first visit Moray (11,646 /3,550m), an unusual site set on a high plateau with several enormous terraced circular depressions that the Incas may have used as agricultural laboratories. We hike for about two hours along a gentle trail with views of snow-capped peaks and terraced hillsides toward the small, charming town of Maras (11,023 /3,360m). After a brief visit of the town, with its eclectic mix of building styles dating from the pre-columbian and colonial times, we hike for another 40 minutes to the nearby terraced salt evaporation ponds, called Las Salineras. Since pre-incan times, salt has been gathered in Maras by evaporating salty water from a local subterranean stream. The effect of sunlight reflecting from the complex maze of ponds is quite stunning. After our visit we follow a downhill trail to the Urubamba River (9,186 /2,800m) where a van will be waiting to take us to Lamay. Dinner and overnight at Lamay Lodge. 5 hours (including lunch) 7

7 DAY 2 Sacred Valley: Explore the Pisac Valley and Ruins We depart after breakfast for the nearby town of Pisac and turn off the main road at Qoya (9,514 /2,900m), with its charming colonial church. After about a 1.5-hour drive (the last section on a dirt road), we reach the AyarCancha community where we start hiking at an elevation of 12,467 feet (3,800m). The trail winds uphill for two hours to Challwaccasa Pass (13,943 /4,250m), which grants us great views of the peaks of the Vilcanota and Vilcabamba mountain ranges and, in the distance, the giant snow-capped peaks of Ausangate and Salcantay. We then head downhill to the community of Viacha (12,795 /3,900m), where we enjoy a gourmet lunch. After a well-earned rest, we join a restored Inca trail that leads to the stunning archaeological site of Pisac (10,826 /3,200m), which dominates the valley below. The lower slopes of the surrounding mountains feature impressive agricultural terraces and irrigation systems dating from Inca times. After exploring the ruins we continue downhill for an hour to the picturesque village of Pisac (9,750 /2,972m), well known for its colorful handicraft market held on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Sundays. Our vehicle will be waiting to take us back to Lamay (9,649 / 2941m). Dinner and overnight at Lamay Lodge. 6 hours (including lunch) In the event that a guest does not feel like hiking or prefers an easier hike, we suggest the following alternative: OPTIONAL ACTIVITIES ON DAY 2 Start the morning with a leisurely breakfast and fun activities around the Lamay Lodge. At lunch time, a private van takes us to join the group of trekkers at Viacha community, as this exquisite meal should not be missed! If after lunch guests are feeling active they may join the other trekkers for the hike downhill towards Pisaq archeological site. DAY 3 Lares: Trek from Cuncani to Huacawasi, Meet the Communities A short drive brings us to Ancasmarca (13,267 /4,044m), where we explore an old Inca site that features a variety of ancient food warehouses, dwellings, and farming areas. Its location was strategic since it connected the higher part of the Sacred Valley with the cloud forest communities of Lares. Heading over the Lares Pass (14,501 /4,420m), we arrive at Cuncani (12,742 /3,884m), the starting point of our hike. Walking uphill for about two hours, we pass farmhouses and fields. The local inhabitants, descendants of the Incas, have maintained their traditional way of life, growing an amazing variety of potatoes nearly year-round and using their llamas as transportation and alpacas as food and clothing. Reaching Cruzccasa Pass (13,740 /4,188m), we enjoy an impressive view of Veronica peak, then have an hour s descent to our picnic lunch spot. Another hour s hike brings us to Huacawasi Lodge (12,467 /3,800m). In the late afternoon, we have an opportunity to experience a unique cultural encounter with the local community. Dinner and overnight at Huacawasi Lodge. 5 hours (including lunch) OPTIONAL ACTIVITIES ON DAY 3 For guests that would prefer not to do this day s hike, they can spend a relaxing day at the lodge and do short hikes to the surrounding local communities. We may also experience different cultural encounters with the locals, such as learning from their pottery and weaving unique abilities. 8

8 DAY 4 Lares: Trek from Quiswarani to Huacawasi, High Mountain Lakes & Villages A great day awaits us as we hike one of the most beautiful trails in the Cusco region! From the quaint village of Quiswarani (12,562 /3,829m), we begin hiking westward up a small valley dotted with lakes and herds of grazing alpacas. Our trail then narrows into a series of switchbacks to Abra Huchuyccasa pass (14,481 /4,414m), which we reach after three hours. From the pass we have the most amazing views of distant mountain ranges and stunning turquoise lakes, whose brilliant hues are the result of bronze metal elements in their icy waters. Descending slightly, we continue hiking another hour toward our second pass of the day at Phoñaccasa (14,393 /4,387m). From here we descend to Qeywaqocha Lake for a leisurely lunch, then end our hike at the village of Qelqena (11,965 /3,647m). Along the way enjoy spotting native bird species, including Andean geese, ducks, and plovers. Our vehicle meets us at the trailhead for the drive back to Huacawasi. Dinner and overnight at Huacawasi Lodge. Total hiking time : 8 hours (including lunch) OPTIONAL ACTIVITIES DAY 4 Photo: Lunch break by the lake This alternative option is well suited for guests that are not feeling confident in doing the longer and most challenging hike. After breakfast we drive for 40 minutes to Qelqana. From here we start an easy yet beautiful 3 hour hike back to Huacawasi Lodge. After lunch, we may visit the famous Lares hot springs, only 40 minutes away by car. Photo: Making new friends at the village of Huacawasi 9

9 DAY 5 Lares: Trek from Huacawasi to Patacancha, the Weavers Trail Huacawasi is a famous weavers village, where the men still wear traditional colorful ponchos and women s attire includes wide handmade skirts and decorated hats. As we begin our hike right from the lodge, we are immersed in scenes of community life, including women working on looms and children heading to school. The wide and easy trail takes us uphill for 2.5 hours to the top of Ipsaycocha Pass (14,573 /4,442m) where we enjoy stunning views of the surrounding mountains. As we hike, we often meet locals traveling from village to village with their goods and herds. We descend gently for about 40 minutes to Lake Ipsaycocha (14,081 /4,292m) where we may have the chance to see condors circling lazily in the sky while enjoying our lunch. We continue our descent for 2.5 hours to the village of Patacancha (12,624 /3,848m) where high quality weavings are also produced. Our vehicle will meet us here to take us to the Inca town of Ollantaytambo (9,160 /2,792m) in the Sacred Valley. Dinner and overnight at a hotel. 6.5 hours (including lunch) Photo: Leaving Huacawasi village towards Patacancha DAY 6 Explore Ollantaytambo Inca Sites and Transfer to Machu Picchu Town After our five-day hike, we can enjoy a more relaxing day by having a leisurely breakfast and visiting Ollantaytambo, which boasts an impressive archaeological site and a well-preserved Inca town structure. This was the estate of Emperor Pachacutec who conquered the region, building the town and the ceremonial center. Ollantaytambo dates from the late 15th century and has some of the oldest continuously occupied dwellings in South America. After lunch at the hotel, we catch our train for the 1.5-hour ride to Aguas Calientes, also known as Machu Picchu town. Dinner and overnight at Inkaterra Pueblo Hotel. Optional hike for the hard-core trekkers: OPTIONAL HIKE DAY 6 Hike to Pumamarca, above Ollantaytambo A short drive brings us to the settlement of Pallata (10,236 /3,120m), from where we hike gradually uphill to Pumamarca (10,498 / 3,200m), a small and little visited Inca archaeological site overlooking the Patacancha Valley. After exploring the site we hike downhill for about three hours through extensive Inca-built agricultural terraces and along an old Inca trail back to Ollantaytambo. After lunch at our hotel, we explore on foot the town s magnificent ruins, including the fortress, the ceremonial center, and the town itself, once an Inca capital and the last stronghold against the Spanish conquerors. In the late afternoon, we catch our train for the 1.5-hour ride to Aguas Calientes, also known as Machu Picchu town. Dinner and overnight at the Inkaterra Pueblo Hotel. 4.5 hours 10

10 Photo: Overlooking Machu Picchu Sanctuary DAY 7 Visit Machu Picchu Sanctuary and Return to Cusco After a very early breakfast at the hotel, we walk to the bus station for the 30-minute ride up to Machu Picchu Sanctuary. Our trip leader will give an introductory twohour guided tour of the evocative ruins, after which we have the option of climbing the sheer Inca staircase of Huayna Picchu, a steep and vertically quite challenging hike that affords encompassing views of Machu Picchu and the surrounding mountain ranges (about a two-hour hike). Afterwards, we meet up with our guide again and return by bus to Aguas Calientes for a late lunch. The afternoon train ride from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo takes about 1.5 hours, and then a private vehicle drives us back to Cusco (an additional 1.5 hours). Upon arrival in Cusco (approximately 7 or 8 p.m.), we are dropped off at El Mercado Tunqui Hotel (or other hotel of your choice) for overnight. 11

11 The Map 13

12 Preparing for the Adventure We recommend that our guests spend at least 2 nights in Cusco prior to departure. This helps with acclimatization to the altitude and also provides an opportunity to explore the beautiful city of Cusco. Travelers can feel the effects of higher altitudes as low as 6000 feet (2000 meters) above sea level. They differ in their tolerance for high altitude conditions and how their bodies react to the changes in air pressure and oxygen level. Therefore we encourage our guests to undergo appropriate preparation by regular cardio-vascular exercise, even if conducted at low elevation, and to adopt a healthy, balanced diet prior to the trip. The best type of training includes aerobic activities like walking, running, swimming or cycling. You need to start out slow and for short periods if you have not trained before. Eventually work your way up to doing one of these exercises 3-5 days a week for 30 minutes to an hour at 70-85% of your maximum heart rate. Your maximum heart rate can be estimated by subtracting your age from 220. While doing this aerobic type of exercise you can throw in one minute intervals of higher intensity in order to push your limits. The lodge-to-lodge trek itinerary is designed to allow everyone to hike at their own pace, with plenty of breaks throughout the day. This is in essence what leads to a successful and enjoyable trek. Please contact your physician to assess your physical conditions and for his advice on how best to prepare to fully enjoy your trekking experience. Photo, top: Hikers with local alcapa herders Photo, bottom: Children play by the church at Huacawasi village 14

13 Guido Huaman Raul Ramirez Washington Chucya Pepe Noriega Guides We provide one Trip Leader for a group of up to 7 guests. For groups of 8 or more guests, the trip leader is supported by an assistant guide. Our trekking guides are among the best in Peru (some even having won international awards!) and have on average at least 15 years of experience guiding in the mountains, not only in Peru, but around the world. Many of them are considered pioneers in this area, having scouted many of the current trekking routes in the country. All MLP guides have excellent language skills, and are highly trained in managing group dynamics. All guides undergo continuous medical and rescue training, with a certification in Wilderness First Aid. You will appreciate their knowledge of history and cultural traditions, as well as their interpretation of local flora and fauna, and their great insights (and stories!) that go far beyond any guide or history book! Since the leaders have been guiding this particular trek for several years, they have made friends in the local communities, thus allowing genuine and spontaneous encounters during the journey, which often provide unforgettable experiences for our guests. In their hands, you will feel safe and well taken care of! 16 Pre-Trek Briefing and Meet & Greet We provide a pre-trek briefing in Cusco on the evening prior to the start of trek. The meeting is held in our hotel El Mercado by the trip leader and all participants are requested to attend. The briefing consists of the following: meet and greet with the group and the lead guide review of the detailed itinerary and any last-minute changes confirmation of specific dietary and medical information of the participants address frequently asked questions (and answers) verify that participants have the necessary gear and equipment Important Note: You will be receiving an invitation via with the time and place of the briefing, including a map with directions to the briefing. Please note that if your arrival into Cusco is delayed and you are unable to join your group for the transfer on Day 1 to the first lodge, we can arrange private transfer for you to join the group at additional cost. Brief Technical Trip Description The two programs (5 day and 7 day) offer a variety of day hikes and activities ranging from easy, to moderate and strenuous, depending on the level and abilities of the guests. The hikes and cultural visits take place at elevations between 7,000 and 14,000 ft (2,000-4,000 m) on diverse types of trails ranging from flat and grassy to steps or rocky slopes. Weather conditions may affect the choice of activities. Age Limits: The recommended minimum age of participants is 12 years old. However, we may consider exceptions depending on experience and physical conditions.

14 Yanapana Peru endeavors to take care of local residents who live in vicinity of its lodges and trekking paths. Please help us reduce extreme poverty in these areas. Founded by Mountain Lodges of Peru, we are an independent, non-governmental, non-profit association, duly approved as a tax exempt entity and registered as an authorized and eligible recipient organization. Our purpose is to reduce extreme poverty in MLP s areas of operation by improving the quality of life in Andean communities through sustainable community development. We create and implement programs that assist people living in conditions of extreme poverty. More specifically, we promote employment training, educational programs, health care, and environmental protection. Our main beneficiaries are local families that have limited access to already low quality services, such as health and education. Our target families tend to live below the poverty line and are usually deprived of basic living requirements such as nutritious food, clothing, and housing Photo: Children at Manchayhuaycco Primary School. non-educational tools and equipment. This project enables children to improve their limited diet using locally grown healthy and organic vegetables. Teachers can count on improved accommodations and are thus more motivated. Your choice to make use of MLP s services automatically helps Yanapana Peru, though further direct support from you would also be highly welcome. You can help us by donating school supplies, winter clothing, kitchenware, and/or sponsoring a child. Cash contributions are also welcome and just a small amount can go far in these communities. For more information, please don t hesitate to contact your travel specialist. Thank you in advance for your support! For example, one of our most important pilot projects is the Maychayhuaycco Primary School, where we support the construction of a green house for organic farming, a storage house, and sleeping facilities for the teachers. We organize training workshops and provide the school with educational and 18