((( Every adventure has an end )))
The day started before the sun. Our last morning. Tents coming down in the half-light, bags that somehow didn’t close as easily as they did on the first day smelling like woods, and that strange feeling of wanting to rush to comfort and wanting to stay at the same time.
But we weren’t done yet. There were still a few adventures left to live.
So we said goodbye to the lake the best way we knew: with a race. Participants against staff. Everyone paddled like their lives depended on it, especially Audreanne, who gave it absolutely everything. From the participants’ boat came repeat-after-me songs, loud and proud, pushing every stroke forward. It was a tight race. Who won? Honestly, I have no idea. I was too busy catching the laughter and the splashes, all under the most beautiful morning light.
Back on land, the highlights continued. A hot shower (never underestimate the joy of a hot shower after an expedition). A friendly dog who came to say hi, as if he knew we needed one more hug. And at lunch, celebration, and a lot more hugs, as we slowly started to get ready to say goodbye.
The role of a photographer/blogger is to pay attention. To the small details, the quirks, the glances, the inside jokes nobody else understands. For four days, I had the honour of witnessing all of you. Watching closely, carefully, how a group of strangers became something warm and real.
Simon, one of the logistics magicians, said something that stayed with me. He invited us to stop using the word “fear” and use the word “unknown” instead, because fear builds a barrier that stops us from going further. The unknown is just a place we haven’t visited yet. I think this whole expedition was exactly that. A step into the unknown, together.
After the bus ride, we said goodbye for real. Many hugs, beautiful words, and the feeling of nostalgia already. And just like that, back to our regular lives.
If I had to choose a word for the whole expedition, it would be Inspiring. But the word for today is Bittersweet.
To the participants: thank you for your courage, your laughter, and your open hearts. You are SO beautiful. Remember the friends you made here. Remember it was all real.
To the staff team: thank you for the great meals, the willing hearts, the warmth, the love, the fun. It was so inspiring to watch you shine in your roles.
And one last confession. On the very first day, as soon as we arrived at camp, I realized I had lost my camera charger. The staff even drove to the nearest village to look for one. No luck. So for four days, I counted every battery like treasure.
They lasted. Until the very last moment. Right after the final group photo, just before we boarded the bus, my camera clicked one last time and went quiet.
As if it knew the story was complete.
Valeria Valencia Valle
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