We've spent two days in Arequipa. It's beautiful here, and we're surrounded by mountains and volcanoes. I've been struggling a little with the altitude, but lots of water and coca leaf tea seem to be helping things along. Dair, while a little fuzzier than usual, is having less of a struggle. Sadly, no matter how much coca I consume, I don't seem to be catching a buzz; apparently the coca must be consumed in other manners to make it exciting.

We spent yesterday and today just wandering around, relaxing and enjoying the city. We found a little restaurant that serves the most amazing empanadas, have been drinking lots of fresh fruit juices and eating yummy chicken. Yup, turns out that the "polleria" phenomenon stretches far beyond Lima's city limits.

Happily there have been no eruptions or major tremors and tomorrow heading out to put my physical stamina to the test and see what I'm actually capable of. Here's hoping my sunny disposition helps my assets outweigh my physical-limitation liability with my group.