Day 3 - Cusco

Itinerary

Day in Cusco to Acclimatize to Altitude, Breakfast, Cooking Class and Shopping at Market, Briefing with Alpaca Trekking Outfitter, Gear & Equipment Check, Free Time, Rest & Relax, Final Packing for Trek, Dinner in town!

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Journal Entry by Katie Kirkpatrick

Our first two and a half days in Cusco have been an unforgettable blend of history, culture, and adventure. We’ve logged tens of thousands of steps exploring the ancient streets while taking in the remarkable legacy of the Inca civilization and the lasting influence of the Spanish conquest. The Incas’ extraordinary craftsmanship—particularly their precision stonework and advanced metalworking—has been truly impressive. One highlight was touring Cusco’s magnificent cathedral, where we discovered a uniquely Andean interpretation of the Last Supper depicting Christ and the disciples sharing guinea pig (cuy), a traditional Quechua delicacy that remains a staple today and is especially enjoyed during celebrations such as Pachamama on August 1. Many in our group later sampled both guinea pig and alpaca—another local favorite—and the consensus was that neither was terrible! Many in our group also made the climb to Saqsaywaman, the impressive Inca citadel overlooking Cusco, where spectacular views, remarkable architecture, and the nearby Christ statue made the hike well worth the effort.

We’ve balanced sightseeing with staying active and experiencing local traditions. Ward easily outran the rest of us during a workout at the local track as he prepares for cross-country season, while everyone has been focused on staying hydrated at Cusco’s high elevation, sampling the traditional coca tea (which, for some, came with a few heart palpitations!) and the gentler muna tea. Another favorite experience was exploring the colorful San Pedro Market alongside our chefs before preparing a delicious meal of trout ceviche and beef tenderloin during a hands-on cooking class. And, of course, no visit to Cusco would be complete without browsing the many shops, politely responding with countless “¡No gracias!” to friendly local artisans, and smiling our way past the seemingly endless invitations to enjoy a massage or spa treatment.

~Katie Kirkpatrick