Saturday 25 August 2012

Finally after 4 flights and 39 hours, we have arrived in Cusco

The Peruvians obviously recognise influential people as Chris and Aileen were both bumped up to business class for the last short flight. I should probably explain that the only difference from cattle class and business is a dirty curtain (and you sit slightly further away from the hens)

The thin altitude is immediately obvious to everyone as we get off the plane and make our way to collect the bags. Everyone is reporting signs of dizziness and even short walks seem that little bit harder.

A quick minibus ride to our hotel base for briefing and lunch. Alpaca all round (Lima) with rice AND chips, they like their carbs in Peru!, before Simon takes us on a tour around Cusco.

The Incan heritage is very prominent throughout the town and there are churches on every street corner. We spent some time at the local indoor market, a vast area with traders selling everything including spices, fish, meat, hats and locally made souvenirs (and other general tat).

Had to pay a visit to the public toilets, an experience not to be repeated.

Chris and Graeme both struggling this afternoon, a combination of long travelling, lack of sleep and high altitude.

Early night tonight, first days trekking tomorrow.

7 comments:

  1. Well boys and girls. Easy part is over!!!!. I trust you all had a very well earned sleep and up for today's challenge. Spoke to Aileen last night and she was saying the the high altitude is very evident. You all have an ever increasing home suppoprt - Go for it and do it for The Hospice.

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  2. the hospice girls25 August 2012 at 12:25

    Hi folks, hope you are all coping well with the high altitude, heat etc. Wishing you all the very best for your trek. Look forward to hearing your updates. Love from all the girls working the weekend at the hospice xx

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  3. What an amazing bunch of people, good luck and take care or each other :) thinking of you all, Gillian xx

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  4. Well done on surviving that journey, sounds like a nightmare! Enjoy the rest today and i'm sure you will all be up for the challenge ahead.

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  5. Glad you've arrived - finally!! Enjoy every minute! Can't wait to see the pictures Mum! Love Mhairi xxxx

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  6. Chris / Graeme did you not pack diamox? Thought you would have after Kili. Can't believe you got Simon as trek leader. Tell him I said hi.

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  7. Glad you got there okay at last! Good luck on the trek Chris, looking forward to lots of photos!

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