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 Leaving Cuzco for Pizac, you quickly pass a number of ruins (Sacsayhuaman, Puca Pucara, Tambomachay) and just as quickly gain altitude to cross up and over into the Urubamba River valley. Along the way there are spectacular views both large and small...
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This contrast between the sweeping mountain vistas and the details that you will see if you keep your eyes open is the kind of reward that travelling in a smaller group and by foot will provide. Of course it helps if you have someone with you that actually knows something about the surroundings, whether it is the cultural history or the botanical environment. (Another argument for travelling with a seasoned guide!) |
You pass a number of picturesque communities along the way...
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<<Members of the group overlooking the village in the picture above.
JB looking down the valley. >> |
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Overlooking Pizac
This is the view overlooking Pizac. On our first day out of Cuzco we went on a 'training' hike to the temple on top of the peak above the town. Overlooked by the Spanish in their conquests, the whole hillside had terraces and natural formations which formed the shape of a condor with the main temple on the top of its head. If you can't make out the shape from this photograph, go Here for a highlighted version. |
On to the Ruins outside Pizac...
Click here for more resources... Books and Guides...
- The Trek to Machu Picchu
The Sacred Valley