CUSCO, PERU

Lesley and Phil, our Scottish friends arrived on July 9th. It was really wonderful to see them, and we have not stopped talking since.

We stayed in an apartment in Cusco for a few days, so Leslie and Phil could acclimatize to the altitude, and so we could explore the sites of Cusco. We visited the Cathedral, the archeological museum, the Inca Museum and Saqsayhuaman ruins.

The cathedral is very elaborate and the architecture is an amazing representation of the Catholic Church at the height of its power. Paintings adorn the walls and ceiling, and the many statues are works of art. 

PLAZA DE ARMAS

THE CHURCHES OF CUSCO

VIEWS OF CUSCO

The archeological museum houses many artifacts from the Inca and pre-Inca periods. The display is really interesting and extensive.

Saqsayhuaman ruins are the main Inca ruins in the Cusco area. They are the ruins we had previously visited for the Inti Rami festival. The name means "satisfied falcon". The fortress was the site of one of the fiercest battles between the spaniards and the Inca in 1536. The walls are made of huge stones, intricately positioned together. It is truelly amazing.

SAQSAYHUAMAN RUINS

We also spent time preparing for our trip to Macchu Pichhu, which involved getting supplies, tickets for entry, and accommodation.
We also ate out in Cusco restaurants, which was to be a big mistake!

 

HIGHLIGHTS/CHALLENGES OF THIS AREA:

MOST VALUED POSSESION: a kitchen to be able to cook

BEST EXPERIENCE: Mike-seeing Lesley and Phil; Keira- playing with the lamas and patting the baby lamas around the plaza in Cusco; Riss- seeing Lesley and Phil, and spending time together.

MOST CHALLENGING EXPERIENCE: Mike- nothing this entry; Keira-nothing this entry ; Riss- nothing this entry

BEST FOOD DISCOVERY: Mike- churros (long sugary donut like things with caramel inside, Keira-  churros for me tooand soy milk ice cream; Riss- I must admit the churros

BEST CAMPING SPOT:  no camping this blog; apartment was great as we could cook and hang out, however it was cold inside.

 

 

 

PHIL, LESLEY AND KEIRA

THE LAMAS AT SAQSAYHUAMAN