Thoroughly enjoyed our day of rest in Cusco. Little did we know how much we would need it.

Walked Cusco, taking in the sites of this ancient city of the Incas. A city of approx. 500k it was bustling in spite of being a work/school day. Adjusting to the altitude posed no problems for our foursome, learned that Cusco is higher than Macchu Pichu, but did for 22 of our fellow travelers.

As might be imagined, many of these S. American cities rely on tourism, and the accompanying shopping for their livings. The fabrics are wildly colorful, gorgeous, and in wide supply.

Had yet another fabulous lunch at a nearby hotel, and when walking back met this colorful photo op outside our hotel.

Up the next morning early for a trip to Ollantaytambo, the Sacred Valley of the Incas. Without blathering on about the history, this site was to be the a key city for the Incas until the Spaniards thought otherwise. I am sure all can recall the affect the Spaniards had on this region in their bloodlust for precious metals and territory.

Among the many things so very impressive about this site is the stone joinery, all done by hand. Every stone here was located, sized, and joined by hand, many weighing multiple tons.

From here it was off to Macchu Pichu, a place I seen pictures of and imagined for most of my life – it did not disappoint. But to get there we had to tough it out on a train through the Peruvian countryside…

Upon arrival we disembarked, in a fulll downpour that lasted most of the day, and began a full day of traipsing about this magical site. While scholars are still not sure exactly why this was built, it was a town for up to 1500 people. Set in the high mountains, it was mostly self-sufficient but some food had to be scheleped in – no easy task.

A note here, the NatGeo experts and guides we have with us in our group, and at every stop, are just fabulous. On the plane to each location there is a lecture on the site to come, given by a world-renowned expert on the location/culture. Then, when on-site the local guides are mini-experts in the area and history of that location as well. What is amazing and refreshing – to me – is that while all are scientifically bent, they are equally engaging and eloquent in presenting their specialty. For Macchu Pichu we had Peter Frost present the history, and his part in it, of the area/site the night before, then was with us on site making mini-presentations throughout. Oh yeah, and they take care of all and the details of a trip of this magnitude, more on that later.

After MP it was back on the train for another arduous trip back to Cusco…

Back in Cusco for a night to get ready for next stop. On the way out we made sure to say goodbye to the locals…

Easter Island is next, and the excitement level is picking up for the whole group !