Early in the morning we are planning to take a bus going from Puno to Cusco, travelling via some highlighted spots along the way. When we arrive at the bus station the popular Inka Express was sold out, but we have learnt that there is always another way…so we arrange for a different transportation. The road to Cusco crosses a high point of 4300 meters, with a stunning view of about 5500 meters high, snow-covered mountains. In early evening, after 10 hours on the bus, we arrive in Cusco. The view of the Cathedral is a classic, fascinating postcard. Looking around for a hotel to stay we get a good deal at the Inka Teatro, just few blocks outside town.

Cusco looks well kept, and rich with traditions, indeed we are lucky enough to see the dance festival where the different tribes dress in traditional dresses, perform different kinds of dances. It’s an explosion of powerful colors!

Cusco is well known also for its special cuisine, like the antichuco (see food section) which is the Peruvian answer to lollipops (some animal heart on a stick with a potato on top) and the cuy (see food section) which is the oven roasted guinea pig. The last takes forever to eat, but Andreas was brave enough to suck it in until the last stripe of meat…it’s quite a job!

One peculiar thing, which was constant during the trip, is the amount of Israeli-oriented places in Peru: hostels, bars, restaurants etc. etc…well in Cusco all of this has peaked in roads full of signs in Hebrew…and the Peruvians are sure I’m Israeli myself: “well…it’s the nose…and also the hair”. Maybe they never heard about the Mediterranean profile!!!

Nevertheless, we are lucky enough to have a week to spend between Cusco and Machu Picchu, visiting the Sacred Valley and all the Inka ruins which are scattered around. First stop will be Pisac.