Visiting Cusco in the Sacred Valley of Peru left me feeling in awe of this former Inca capital. As in so many cities in South America the Spanish invaders left – among many other things – their architectural mark by building cathedrals, churches and stately homes, yet in Cusco you can still step back in time to the days of the Inca empire and feel its presence.
We used Cusco as a base to explore the Sacred Valley. The city offered comfort coupled with bags of history, places to see, beautiful people and delicious food.
I enjoyed strolling around the city and observing daily life – the colours of the fabrics, people going to work, six ladies cleaning one door, the shop keepers, men decorating San Blas church for a festival and the smile on the faces of the people we met. Locals were keen to engage in conversation. Of course you are approached by tourist touts but stay polite and they will take no for an answer. The old Inca walled streets are an incredible sight and we very much enjoyed the San Blas area. Best restaurant in our opinion was Vida Vegan Bistro where we had a delicious meal and great conversation with the owner who shared with us his passion for cooking with local and unusual products.
This video is an overview of Cusco. It features Cusco’s historic centre, Plaza de Armas, Saqsaywaman, Cristo Blanco and Qorikancha. Music is by Shaman Kuntur (Condor) who gave a beautiful performance using traditional Inca instruments – enjoy!