In a "City where it never rains," you don't need a Jetway to board an airplane! The troupe leaves for Cuzco.
Our guide, Ana Maria, passed out a napkin moistened with a natural liquid which is said to help alleviate the symptoms of high altitude. Fortunately, we were all more curious about the smell than actually feeling any ill effects of Cuzco's 12,000 foot environment.
Our Cuzco guide Juan took us to the Basical Catedral to show us the architectural fusion of Incan and Catholic religions.
Above the traditional arches and columns of an 18th century cathedral, you can see the perfectly and freely placed Incan stones
A modern depiction of the Milky Way can be seen through the Ican's perfect stone doorway. No mortar of any kind was used between the stones -- only gravity and tongue-and-groove connections hold the stone walls together.
Outside the Basilica -- notice again the Incan walls below the more traditional architecture on the left as well as in the surrounding garden area.
We then went to the hills above Cuzco, to Saqsaywaman, the literal "head" of Cuzco's city, which is laid out in the shape of a large puma. Jon gives some scale to the enormous stones that make up the puma's head.
Trent, Jacob, and Jeremy with the city of Cuzco behind them.
On our way down from Saqsaywaman, a short rain shower ended with a beautiful rainbow over the city.
Walking by the Convento de Santo Domingo on the way to dinner.
Modern and Incan influences are always in sight around Cuzco's beautiful walkways.
We found a lovely fountain next to our restaurant.
Cuzco at night.
The next morning, we set out early for our train to Machu Picchu.
When we arrive, Juan describes the layout of "the lost city" and its organization.
Machu Picchu rises out of the clouds.
The group pauses as the clouds move across us and Machu Picchu
More of this amazing city.
Walking around Machu Picchu with its 16 fountains built into the stone facades.
Llamas grazed on the city's lush vegetation.
We break for lunch at the entrance to Machu Picchu.
Reenacting a traditional Incan "goodbye relay," a young boy "Luis" takes shortcuts through the bus route cut-backs to wish us well over half a dozen times.
A view from the train as it winds through the lush Andian mountainside.
Snowcaps can be see on the higher peaks outisde of Cuzco.
On the train ride back from Machu Picchu, we are treated to a traditional Incan celebration dance.
Monday morning, we hop on board the plane and head to Lima before making our connecting flight to Quito.