By Mabel Lee.
Upon our arrival to the city of Cuzco, the abrupt increase in altitude to 3,400 meters was immediately felt in my protesting lungs as we trudged up the sloping streets, past women slinging babies in colorful papooses and children peeking out from doorways. We were on our first South American adventure, and as we sat waiting in the open courtyard of the Hostel Qorichaska, the kind receptionist brought us our first infusion of coca leaves, of many to come: a bit bitter, yet warm and soothing for the head, perfect for a quiet moment before the journey started.
Arrival at Macchu Picchu on the fourth day of the Inca Trail.
Cuzco is a bustling city with many remnants of its colonial history; taking a stroll through its grand plaza, I was reminded of Spanish cities as I observed the elegant architecture of the buildings and churches. Throughout the streets the colorfulness of woven textures on dresses, of street vendors and markets, stood out brightly against old stone walls. With a tourist ticket in hand, which provided access to over 16 different historical sites ($43), we traveled more deeply into the city’s remote past on a visit to Saqsaywaman and Pukapukara, two ancient sites dating back to the Inca Empire, consisting of massive stone walls built without the help of mortar. The greatness of the Incan civilization, seen firsthand, was beginning to dawn on me.