In the morning we have distanced ourselves from the crowds with a private tour of the Cusco area.  We visit Sacsayhuaman, a huge and impressive fortress of colossal stones surrounded by beautiful views blending together in harmony.  Pope John Paul II said Mass here with hundreds of thousands of Peruvians attending at this natural ampitheatre.   We are impressed with the gigantic stones and how the ancient people were able to move them and assemble them.

We continue to a visit to downtown Cusco, to the Plaza de Armas.   Our guide, Arecely, is an expert in the history and culture of Peru.   The beautiful Spanish cathedral is explained in detail, right down to the famous painting of The Last Supper, where Jesus and his disciples dine upon cuy (guinea pig), a traditional Peruvian food.

After, the Korikancha temple welcomes us in all its magnificence; this temple, whose Quechua name means “Gold Enclosure” still bedazzles  with gold covered walls. 

This city of stone, capital of the Inca empire is impressive.  It is here where the Inca Trail starts and it is the first step of our journey to Machu Picchu.

I always love the hotel we stay at in Cusco, the Terra Andina.  The service is terrific, the rooms are large with big, comfortable beds for a well-needed rest at night.   It is about a 7-minute walk from the main square in a quiet and safe neighborhood and only steps away from the convenience of a supermarket.   If you stay there, do not miss the delicious chicken soup!