Peru - Colca Canyon & Cusco

Picture below epitimoses the way the last 5 days have transpired. Things are literally flying along!

A leap of faith over the sand dunes at Huacachina

After a couple of days in Arequipa we left to embark on what turned out to be an epic 3 day adventure into the Colca Canyon. This was followed with a couple of days exploring the sites of Cusco, one of the worlds most historic cities before preparing our packs to set off on the Inca Trail tomorrow (Fri 2nd Nov).

The Colca Canyon really was an absolute gem! For anyone with Peru on their list of countries to travel to, this is an absolute must do! It's longer and deeper than the grand canyon (not quite as steep). The 3 days that we spent trekking into, around and up this immense natural wonder really did blow us away.

Start of the Colca Canyon Trek

Day 1 was all down hill as we trekked to the very floor of the Colca Canyon where we spent a night in a tiny local village that only had electricity connected in the last 2 years, and whose villagers live primarily off their local produce. Big eye opener and a great taste of local lifestyle and customs.

 Cactus is one of the few plants that survive deep within the Canyon Walls

Day 2 was a 3 1/2 hour trek from the village into a hidden Oasis at the base of the canyon. This was one of the most impressive places that we've ever stayed with a horizon pool looking up into the glistening peaks of the canyon. More incredibly, the accomodation cost a total of 20 peruvian soles for our double room (equivalent to approx $7 USD). Amazing value for what was an incredible location.

Trekking our way out of the Colca Canyon

Day 3 was probably the most physically demanding with a 2 hour trek, rising over 1200m in altitude straight up the canyon wall.

The adventure then finished off with an hour of recuperation in the 38 degree thermal springs which helped to recharge the batteries. The Colca Canyon adventure well and truly exceeded the limited expectations that we had leading in.

We then moved onto Cusco where we were greeted by a spell of wet weather but still found enough time to explore this historic Inca City. Predominantly by foot but we did find a dodgy local who was prepared to put us on the back of a couple of his horses and take us around some of the historic Inca ruins and temples by horseback. We'll certainly not be lining up in next weeks Melbourne Cup based on this showing!

Horse riding our way around the outskirts of Cusco

We are now ready and prepared for the Inca Trail. Kick off: 6am tomorrow morning...

Oh, and just in case you were wondering, the landing was quite as smooth as the takeoff...