June 14, 2013

Mountains to rival, or exceed, those of California.

We were last in Cusco, sensibly napping on our portable pillows; from there, we took one of Cusco's cheap and plentiful buses to get to Puno, the city near the always-chuckleworthy-sounding Lake Titcaca. 

 Assorted markets in the shade.

On the way, we stopped to view some mountains in chilly altitudes and some old walls and markets in sweltering heat. Then on to Puno.

Inca walls of a sun temple.

June 15, 2013

If I get seasick on this reed island, maybe I'll duck into this hut.

The reed islands on Lake Titicaca were made by people trying to escape from the clutches of the Incas. They are free floating and wonders to walk on. 

On the reed boat to Taquile, beautifully excited.

We were transported on a reed boat to one of the Uros islands, which has beautiful views and cooperative markets.

Yeah, we could live here.

June 18, 2013

Cher getting herself to a nunnery.

From Puno we went to Arequipa, a beautiful city near Colca Canyon, which is larger than the Grand Canyon. Arequipa has wide streets and open plazas and was a delight to walk in. 

On the roof of the monastery, with the live volcano Misti in the background.

We spent some time in an old monastery that originally was inhabited by rich nuns who enjoyed the high life.

A wonderful shrimp and crayfish dish in the plaza: chupe de camarones.

June 19, 2013

Colca Canyon took three days to hike, but was worth it.

Colca Canyon, and the rest of the Andes, is home to the Andean condor, which is slowly making a comeback.

Guide Jose and Cher. He was quite fit, unlike the photographer.

The views going down and up were glorious, and we stayed with a family while there.

Not a bad view.

At the summit. Nap time.