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Cusco, Peru & the Sacred Valley |
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Cusco, Peru is known to the Incas as the ‘navel of the world’. This lively city built by the Spanish on the remains of Inca temples and palaces is situated south central within Peru. The city is home to almost 300,000 native Quechua Indians and remains relatively unspoiled. White washed streets and red-tiled roofs reflect the wealth of traditional culture, lively nightlife and endless museums, walks and tours. As the imperial city during Inca times, Cusco was the most important place of pilgrimage in South America, a status it retains today.
Cusco is the gateway into the Sacred Valley of the Rio Urubamba. On either end of the Sacred Valley, the ancient Inca citadels of Pisac and Ollantaytambo sit high above the river and are among the most evocative ruins in Peru. Further downstream are the ancient viallages of Calca, Yucay, and Urubamba. The village of Urubamba is developing a reputation as a spiritual and meditative center while still retaining its traditional Andean charm. It is here that we will spend several days prior to and after our visit to Machu Picchu.
Cusco is the gateway into the Sacred Valley of the Rio Urubamba. On either end of the Sacred Valley, the ancient Inca citadels of Pisac and Ollantaytambo sit high above the river and are among the most evocative ruins in Peru. Further downstream are the ancient viallages of Calca, Yucay, and Urubamba. The village of Urubamba is developing a reputation as a spiritual and meditative center while still retaining its traditional Andean charm. It is here that we will spend several days prior to and after our visit to Machu Picchu.