Cuzco to Sacred Valley


I had quite a head-ache last night, so didn't get a good sleep. Still not feeling too hungry, but have a decent breakfast. The fruit selection at the buffet was great. I had several cups of coca tea, but it doesn't seem to be kicking in yet!
First stop is the statue of Christ overlooking Cuzco where we take a group picture. It's really a beautiful day, starting off fairly cool but going to the low 20sC. The drive to the Sacred Valley is spectacular with narrow and winding roads and many steep cliffs. There are snow capped mountains in the distance. We then had a drive on gravel roads, single lane, lots of switch backs. The Potato Park we go to visit is very interesting, they are keeping all the hundreds of variety of potatoes, and have a seed bank. They also grow other things like corn and quinoa, and told us about the planting and harvest. We had a chance to try some potatoes and also a potato sour! (surprisingly good). Then we had a weaving demonstration, showing us the whole process from washing the fleece, to spinning, dying and weaving. The prices were not cheap, but beautiful and all handmade. Karen and I each bought a scarf, about 50.00CAD. It's nice to support the local industries and traditional crafts.
Next we went to the archaeological site of Pisac. It's very high on the mountain, and the terraces go down to the valley.
Next was lunch at a G Adventures sponsored restaurant. Really delicious and many small courses so we got to try lots of things. All the food is grown locally, and the salad really hit the spot. Luckily my appetite is improving.
After lunch we drove to Ollytaytambo. Many of us are nodding off on the bus. Late afternoon arrival. The little town is very busy and very touristy. The ruins themselves are incredibly impressive. It was a religious site that was not finished when it was destroyed by the Spanish. I can't imagine how they got those huge stones in place.
We stay the night at a lovely Villa in Urubamba nearby. Early night as the trek starts tomorrow. I won't be able to update the blog for the next 4 days, till after Machu Picchu.








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