Peru > From Puno to Cusco

Up early. Today we travel to Cusco. At seven o’clock, after a great breakfast buffet, the luggage is loaded onto the bus. Shortly after leaving Puno, about 14 kilometers away, we visit the burial towers of the Incas and pre-Incas at Sillustani. We also stop at a farm along the route to see how the locals live. Further along the route to Cusco, we stop at a pass at 4,335 meters, offering a stunning view of the snow-capped peaks. Kristina has arranged lunch for us. We stop in a small town along the way, and at a picnic table behind the church, the sandwiches are prepared and eaten.

Peru - The remains of the burial towers

After lunch, we continue toward Cusco. About thirty kilometers from the city, we visit the beautiful San Pedro de Andahuaylillas church in Andahuaylillas. Inside, the locals are preparing a procession for the following day. The sacred statues are ready to be carried during the procession. The church clearly shows Indigenous influences in its decorations, with extensive use of gold and mirrors. At five o’clock, we arrive in Cusco. The hotel Ninos is just outside the city center and is run by a Dutch owner. In the courtyard, we are welcomed with coca tea and receive our room keys. At six o’clock, there is a briefing for the Inca Trail. The guide for the coming days explains the trail. Due to his limited English and probably our fatigue, not everything comes across clearly.

Peru - The snowcovered peaks at the highest pass on the road from Puno to Cusco

Is there enough water available to buy? What will the porters carry and what not? This causes some frustration, and Kristina joins to clarify everything. In the evening, we go into Cusco. First, we exchange money, then look for a cozy restaurant. Baobab guide Rik negotiates with the many restaurant promoters at the central square, playing them against each other. In the end, he manages to get a 15% discount at one restaurant. After dinner, I sort all my belongings at the hotel — what will go with us on the Inca Trail and what will go into storage. After a shower, I go to bed.