Cusco

Though it is often viewed simply as the gateway to Machu Picchu, Cusco has to be one of the most incredible cities on earth, and is overlooked at the traveller's peril. Quite rightly, the Inca Trail and the famous Incan citadel at its end are the major reasons many people will come to Peru, and an eagerness to get straight onto the trail is understandable - however, spending a week or so in Cusco itself is something I would strongly recommend. ~ A breath of fresh, if giddy, air ~ If only to acclimatise, one should take a few leisurely days in the city before exerting themselves; the altitude is well-noted, and is unlikely to come as a suprise in ...

Cusco is one of South America's oldest cities with a proud and illustrious history. It is beautiful to look at with an abundance of classical buildings that are open to the public. The town sits in the shadow of the Andes mountains and their snow capped peaks adds to the cities grandeur. Cusco has recently reverted back to its original name, Qosco as a mark of respect for the local Quechua people. Like most Peruvian cities the centre is marked by the Plaza De Armas. Cusco's plaza has an unusual fountain ranked by a good seating area and several imposing buildings including the Cathedral and a stack of hostels and restaurants all decked ...

Don't talk to me about getting into shape! I just did the Inca trail under the illusion that going on a four day trek would be a good thing to do, as it would improve my fitness. I have now denounced any further attempts to get fit and will be happy to spend the rest of my life merging with a couch and a remote control. The thing about the Inca trail is not that it involves incredibly long and steep ascents and descents or that it involves altitude but that it involves incredibly long and steep ascents and descents at altitude! The notorious second day involves at ascent from 3000 metres above sea level to 4200 before a wee skip down ...