Peru
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Say Peru, and the words Macchu Picchu automatically follow. While Macchu Picchu is the top reason for people visiting Peru, there is much else - as you will observe just on your way there. Most people ignore Lima, but it is an enjoyable city. Miraflores, where most tourists stay, is a pleasant neighborhood for walking and shopping. In May/June (2005), approaching winter, the weather was perfect - just a light jacket needed in the evenings. There are many other cities and regions in Peru that are worth a visit, if you have time. In Lima, as well as in Cusco, take a half-day tour to begin with, as a good way of acquainting yourself with the cities.
Click on the images for a bigger view.
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Human remains in catacombs beneath the church of St Francis in Lima |
Avenue Larco, the main street in Miraflores, on a Sunday. Miraflores is the Lima suburb in which most tourists stay. It ends at the Pacific Ocean, where the LarcoMar mall is located. |
A view of Coricancha, one of the most significant Inca ruins in Cusco. A temple, with gold sheets covering the walls, the Spaniards built a church on top of it. |
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The famous walls of Sascayhuaman, on the outskirts of Cusco. The Incas used an interlocking system instead of mortar to hold their walls. This is believed to be a temple complex - the famous solstice festival is held here. |
The Plaza de Armas, which is Cusco's hub, viewed in a long shot taken from Sascayhuaman. |
The fountain at the Plaza de Armas, in a long exposure at night. |
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The train ride to Macchu Picchu offers wonderful views. This is the Urubamba River - also known by other names. At places the rapids are so fierce it is impassable. |
The start point of the Inca Trail. The train will drop you off here - but you need to be with an official tour. The trail climbs to more than 13000 feet, before you start dropping down into Macchu Picchu, which is at more than 10000 feet. |
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Macchu Picchu, seen from the vantage point most commonly used. |
Visitors, with Macchu Picchu in the background. This is the most photographed location in Macchu Picchu. |
Whoever conceived Macchu Picchu - this is what he would have seen when he looked around. |
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Another view of Macchu Picchu |
Far above the river in Macchu Picchu. |
One of Macchu Picchu's terraces. |
