This was supposed to be a nice short ride into Cuzco. After an hour twisting and turning and climbing I decided to check the altimeter. My phone wasn’t with me. I realised I had left it on the bed. I had been trying to be really careful about checking the rooms before I left. Nothing for it but to return. At that point another motorcycle stopped. The chap was a German who had started in Alaska and was going to Buenos Aires. We chatted for a while and agreed to meet in Norton’s in Cuzco at night.

Number 1046! There were still many more.

The hills here are not so high and dramatic as further north. There is much more agriculture.

More small towns that seem only connected by small rough tracks.
Just as I got in reach of Cuzco the heavens opened. The main road into Cuzco was all dug up as there has been a lot more houses built. The water was just running down the road and there was mud everywhere. I battled my way through the cobbled streets to my friends furniture shop. The rain stopped and I was able to deliver the precious cargo of a bottle of whisky that I had carried with me from Scotland.

I think the bike is a bit big for Patricia.
This is coming up to Christmas and there is a lot happens in Cuzco.
One of the main attractions is the Santurantikuy market held in the main square. This has gone on for over 500 yrs and it is when most of the villagers from miles around come to Cuzco to sell their products. They all sleep under the covered arches which surround the main square. It was difficult to get a good picture without being obvious.

There are hundreds of people. Last night was heavy rain and cold.

This morning it is still wet and the people sit about waiting for folk to buy stuff I would take to the skip. It’s a different culture and has a lot to do with pachamama and their traditions.

The children queue for food handouts. The last ticket number I saw was 1023. There is more than one queue.
Eventually the rain stops and the crowds come out. There are many craft stall of all descriptions.

Street performers

Bands playing.
Navidad is here and its a completely different ball game. You eat your Christmas meal at 12 midnight on 24 then and then open presents etc. It’s going to be a long night.