The Andes
We finally transition from the boring desert to the spectacular scenery of the Andes. The drive from Nazca to Cusco is incredible – Patrick says that it is know as one of the top 10 drives in the world. We drive through the dry desert, arid highlands, fertile farmlands, rushing rivers and even snow-capped mountains. We pass herds of sheep, goats, horses, cows, pigs, donkeys, mules and hundreds and hundreds of alpacas. We even have to stop the car to wait for alpacas to cross the road- they are not the smartest animals and just stare at the car. The altitude change is intense – going from about 1,500 feet in Nazca to almost 10,000 feet in Cusco, and traversing mountain passes upwards of 13,000 feet. All of us suffer minor forms of altitude sickness: nausea, light-headedness, stomach aches, shortness of breath and headaches (2 day migraine for me…). After a couple days and chewing coco leaves, we are acclimated.
Cusco is a wonderful city – cobblestone streets, narrow pedestrian alleys, beautiful architecture, and grand plazas. Also many tourist agencies, souvenir shops, hotels and restaurants. The city is a mix of a charming old town, touristy places and modern local areas. We find Paddy´s Pub, the highest Irish pub in the world, and take Patrick there for a Guinness.
Machu Picchu tomorrow! We are well prepared with our sets of tickets (train, bus and admission) and food (sandwiches made by Chef Paul, coco leaves and candy, and lots of snacks and water). Fortunately, the weather is perfect: sunny, clear and in the 70s. Should be an amazing day!
Tags: Peru
hwy1alltheway
Can’t wait to hear about Machu Picchu. It should be awesome. Bring me back some coco leaves to chew at the office, okay?
I love the Mummy family!