Legacy of the Incas

Sacred Valley, Machu Picchu Pueblo

2.3.16 - 2.4.16 60 °F

This morning we headed down the Sacred Valley to a lower elevation to the town of Machu Picchu Pueblo, the gateway to Macchu Picchu. It's elevation is only about 8500 Feet.

First we stopped at the town of Ollantaytambo to visit the village and view its ancient Inca Ruins. Ollantaytambo was the royal estate of Emperor Pachacuti who conquered the region, built the town and a ceremonial center. At the time of the Spanish conquest of Peru it served as a stronghold for Manco Inca Yupanqui, leader of the Inca resistance. Nowadays it is an important tourist attraction on account of its Inca buildings and as one of the most common starting points for the four-day, three-night hike known as the Inca Trail.
In addition to the ruins, we were able to visit a local home complete with its supply of Guinea Pigs.