Arriving in Cusco and being 3360m above sea level took it’s toll on us. The thumping in my brain was a definite sign I was experiencing at least mild altitude sickness. Susan was also struggling with shortness of breath but apparently it’s quite normal and that is why we need to spend a few days acclimatising. With it’s cobbled streets and traditional squares, Cusco is a lot more quaint and touristy than Lima. We were quick to get sick of people trying to sell us everything from musical instruments to massages. However, I expect the massages are in hot demand from people coming back from Machu Picchu after the 4 day walk though.
This evening we were visited by our guide for the Inca Trail. He talked us through the 4 day trek and started talking about the amount of walking which got Susan scared. I’m quite excited at I have always wanted to do the trek but I am a little worried the lack of basic amenities is going to be a bit tough for Suse.
For dinner we found a Peruvian place where the served roasted cuy (Guinea Pig), a local standard. Not surprising Susan was a little put off by seeing the Guinea Pig staring up at her. It also seem like for the amount of meat my little furry friend offered it was hardly worth cooking him up.