Juego de Sapo!

A classic Peruvian coin toss game

In 2017, we completed the Salkantay Trek from Mollepata (Cusco) to Machu Picchu, high in the Peruvian Andes. It was truly a transformative experience to hike over 45 miles with a total of about 6,000 feet of vertical gain and to an elevation of over 15,000 feet above sea level (at Salkantay Pass). We both came out of the experience with a sense of deep reverence for the earth/Pachamama and for the enduring significance of Incan history and culture.

Apu Salkantay (summit elev 20,574 ft)

One day, the trek required a long descent from the mountains into the jungle. It was a long, hot slog and was becoming hard on the knees. The trail led to a clearing in a valley with a hostel and a small bar, along with a few other buildings. Our guide reappeared with ice cold beer for us all and introduced us to the game of Sapo ("frog" in Spanish) in the plaza. It was such great fun! This is one of our fondest memories of our travel group in Peru. It was the perfect break from our hike and a perfect way to spend a warm and sunny afternoon. We knew at once that we needed to bring this game to the cabin!

Our Sapo game is suitable for all ages, however Sapo is strictly an outdoor game. Please do not play indoors, to prevent damage in the house. The game cabinet is stored downstairs and is on casters. Simply wheel it out the patio door, and place it anywhere flat. The instructions and game coins are stored on the top surface of the game. To ensure the enjoyment of the family who plays after you, please be sure you collect all 10 coins and bring the game back inside when your game is over.

Aim carefully!

The goal of the game is to get the most points. Players toss heavy coins, trying to get them to fall through various holes in the top surface. The holes have different point values, with the highest number of points going to the coins that go into the frog's mouth. If you are lucky enough to do this, you are entitled to yell out "Sapo!" Doesn't get any easier to have a good time... Enjoy!