Monday, September 21, 2015

SEPTEMBER 20 - LIMATAMBO TO CUSCO

This is the last leg into Cusco (I've seen it spelled Cuzco as well) and the last cycle of our trip.  77 km, with 2 climbs totalling 1500 meters.

Last night it rained quite heavily.  Some of the riders got wet tents, gear, etc. but we had no problems.  The rain was gone by morning and we took off.  Unfortunately, Laura became tired quickly from the effects of altitude and decided to turn around to ride the bus.

I proceeded up the hill and along, reaching an altitude of 3600 metrs.  A view of Limatambo and yesterday's valley that we pedaled up.










Passing over the top and down the valley, it opened up into a wide farming area.












The lunch truck party, playing oldies on the stereo.











Navigating through Poroy.











Up the hill for the final climb and down on the other side.  Our first view of the main part of Cusco.  The red earth, tile roofs and brown bricks make for a drab scene.









Getting through Cusco to our hotel was a bit of a challenge.  Lots of turns combined with steep, rough cobbled streets made it exciting.  One of the streets had a vegetable market.  It made for lots of dodging bodies and produce.









Very rough combination of cobbles & stone.












We're nearing the hotel.  Here's the Mercado San Pedro (Market). I'm in a group and we're constantly stopping for photos and just to gawk. 









Here's the town gate (that's Jo from Australia in the photo).












We made it!  Park the bikes, unload and shower, and it's off down the street for some grub.  This is the Plaza San Francisco where we had Quesadillas and Nachos.  Great guacamole!








After the snack its's along to the Plaza de Armas. The Cathedral and some of the other buildings around the Plaza.





That's it for today.  Later on we came back to the Plaza where I had an Alpaca Steak.  Quite good.  Sleep=in time tomorrow.

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