Day 453 – Cusco
Salkantay Trek Preparation Day
Today was a preparation day for our upcoming hike to Machu Picchu. We hadn’t booked anything yet, but we wanted to start the trek tomorrow. The popular hiking trail is called the Inca Trail, which books out months in advance and is super expensive.
We were going to do the Salkantay Trek. After having breakfast at Cusco International Hostal, we went out talking to various tour agencies. The cheapest that we could find was from our old hostel, Carlos Guest House. We messaged Carlos to meet up and make payments.
The rest of the day involved getting supplies like snacks. I also had a haircut so that I don’t look too shabby in the photos of Machu Picchu. Of course we hit the San Blas Market (Mercardo San Blas) for a delicious juice and lunch.
Just a reflection from a table cloth which I thought looked cool 
Main Plaza in the afternoon
Centro Qosqo Arte Nativo
At night, we went to the Centro Qosqo Arte Nativo for a traditional show. This was included with the Boleto Turístico del Cusco 10 Day Pass. The show runs most nights at 7pm. We arrived at 6.45pm and were able to sit 7 rows from the front of the side.
The show was really entertaining and lasted an hour. There were several different types of outfits and dances, which were really nice. The final dance involved audience participation, where they took up randoms from the audience. They were super good at dancing so we were glad we weren’t chosen.
After the show, it started to rain. Luckily it wasn’t too heavy until we reached the hostel.
Qorikancha at night time
Travelled November 2019
Expenses and Transport
- Tour – Salkantay (5 days / 4 nights) with optional Montana Mountain – 600 PEN (~$282 AUD) per person with Carlos Guest House
- Boleto Turístico del Cusco – 10 Day Pass – 130 PEN (~$62 AUD) per person