August 22, 2025
Exploring the Saqsaywaman ruins (Michel Henostroza)
The goal for our team is to reach Machu Picchu after four days of trekking via the famous Inca Trail, the traditional route to the citadel. The permits for the Inca Trail trek route are strictly controlled to prevent overcrowding. But, before the team can start, they need to get a few days of acclimatization under their belt!
The red roofs of Cusco seen from the Coricancha Temple (Eric Simonson)
Cusco is a fascinating city to spend a few days exploring, and 11,000 feet makes it a perfect acclimatization venue. Lead guide Michel Henostroza reports the team had a nice day visiting the classic Inca sites in the area.
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- Plaza de Armas in central Cusco (Eric Simonson)
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- Intricate stonework in Cusco (Eric Simonson)
Next up, for tomorrow, the team travels to the Sacred Valley which was the heart of the Inca Empire. At a slightly lower altitude it will give the team another good acclimatization opportunity, while the visit more interesting archeological sites. All’s well in Peru!