Often referred to as the "Archaeological Capital of the Americas" Cusco is a beautiful city riddled with contrasts between the indigenous styles and the modern western world. It is these contrasts that have given Cusco its rare beauty. The first view to the new visitor to Cusco are the inca walls; enormous granite blocks carved to fit together perfectly without the aid of mortar beds.
Many of the walls were simply built upon during the construction of a new Spanish city. Its a tribute to the Incas that their anti seismic design has survived the test of time while the Spanish colonial architecture has been rebuilt several times following a wave of earthquakes that have hit the city. Located at an altitude of 3,360m above sea level, Cusco was referred to as the 'Navel of the World.
When arriving in Cusco from the coast you'll immediately feel the shortage of oxygen in the air, that is result of the City's high altitude.
The first day in particular should be spent quietly relaxing and taking things easy as you gently acclimatize. Plan to spend at least 3 days in and around Cusco before starting any serious trekking such as the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu. This is an ideal opportunity to see the highlights Cusco has to offer such as a tour of the City, the nearby Inca Ruins of Sacsayhuaman, Qenko, Pucapucara and Tambomachay and, of course a day trip out to the Sacred Valley of the Incas including a visit to the traditional Indian market at Pisac and the beautiful village of Ollantaytambo.
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