27th March

The Sacred Valley lies between the towns of Pisac and 0llantaytambo.

Our first stop was Sacsayhuamán is a walled complex on the northern outskirts of Cuzco the former capital of the Inca Empire. The complex is as many other Inca constructions made of large polished dry-stone walls, each boulder carefully cut to fit together tightly without mortar. Because of its location high above Cuzco and its immense terrace walls, this area of Sacsayhuaman is referred to as a fortress. The size of some of the stones used were huge. Our next stop was Pisac. The Pisac ruins give insight to the Inca's advanced masonary skills. The Pisac markets are full of authentic unique handcrafts and art. Extensive terracing marks the Pisac ruins, which are set among patterned fields. Steps and aquaducts carved from stone round out the complex, and the surviving Sun Temple. Absolutely breathtaking views. Next stop was Ollantaytambo. The streets still have their Inca names. This archaeological site is a series of superimposed terraces, reached by a steep staircase. The ruins feature finely carved, vast stone blocks that make up the upper terrace or Temple of the Sun. The views were amazing. We walked around the markets and the I parted from my fellow travellers as they were staying in a hostel nearby ready to start their 4 day trek to Machu Picchu. I travelled back to Cuzco for a few days and will catch the train on Saturday and meet them on Sunday at 6.30am to watch the sun rise.