3/8 Our flight to Cusco from Lima was great with views of the Andes. We arrived on time and Johanna of Incas discovery met us with our guide, Johan. We boarded our private van with Johan and the driver. We drove to Ollantaytambo town to catch the train to Agua Calientes (Machu Picchu town). 2.5 hr drive with stops along the way to see and learn about the culture of this area. First stop was at a little village where they spin Llama fur into yarn. I bought a lovely hand woven throw from a local girl (see picture). Next stop was for a view from the highest point on the drive at 12,800 ft. Beautiful scenery. At Ollantaytambo, Johan took us through the back walkways to see how the ancient city irrigated and provided water to the people. We went inside a typical (even today) home where guinea pigs are raised for eating. This is called “guy” and a very popular dish with the Inca people. We did not sample any. I had guinea pigs for pets and could not imagine eating one. From the photos you will see they get rather large. The home was dirt floor and rough stone walls. Open fire pit in the center for heat.
The next photos show the irrigation ditches which are centuries old.
Next we got on the train for the journey to Agua Calientes (Machu Picchu town). The 2 hour ride was very scenic and all along the river which was very high and at least class 5 rapids. I was told only extreme sports enthusiasts ever kayak it this time of year. We met a couple from Germany on the train who have relocated to South Africa. They said they were too tired of German government and taxes. They have a ranch in South Africa but are looking to relocate to another desolate area, hence the visit to Peru, Brazil and Argentina.
NEVER STOP MOVING 