Life Through My Eyes: Twas The Night Before The Trek

Hey All!

I am going to have to keep this one short since we have to be up bright and early for our trek tomorrow. Actually, I should say “dark and early” because it won’t be bright at 3am.

Finally had enough Peruvian Sol for a picture!

Anyhow, Cusco once again didn’t disappoint. We started off the day with a yummy breakfast at Jacks and a walk around the Plaza de Armas.

Ari enjoying her coffee in this adorable Alpaca mug

Plaza de Armas with Statue of Pachacuti in the background

The big Inca history tour of the day was Qorikancha, “Court of gold.” Qorikancha temple was built by the Inca to honor the sun. The walls and altars were once plated with gold that glinted in the sunlight. That was until much of the gold was removed to pay ransom for the captive Inca ruler Atahualpa, who was later murdered. The temple was later passed, and still remains, in possession of the Dominicans who constructed the church of Santo Domingo using stones from the temple. Today’s site is a combination of Inca and colonial architecture.

Qorikancha Courtyard

Inside Qorikancha

Todays dinner was once again at Nonna Trattoria. Most eatery establishments in Peru require at least a 2 hour time allotment. The food is always great, so we never complain about how long it takes, but today we needed to get to our trek debriefing. We knew Nonnas would give us great food, and get us in and out in 30 min.

Keith and his Pizza!

We met our guide and got one last overview of the trek. We aren’t backing out now, even if our guide pronounces Keith, "Kate." haha Ariana on the other hand is two for two! Tomorrow we leave on our big adventure. Ariana, Scott, Jane and Kate can't wait!