We managed to have a bit of adventure in spite of ourselves. There is currently some political upheaval going on because the indigenous peoples in the Amazon are protesting the government's attempt to sell tracts of jungle to corporations for development. A lot of protesters and military folks were killed during protests, and as a result there have been strikes and other political action throughout the country in support of the indigenous peoples.
Since strikes here include blocking transportation routes, our bus ride to Cuzco ended up being 12 hours instead of 7 because we had to take an alternate route (otherwise we would have had rocks thrown at us). Protesters had even destroyed a bridge on our route so we had to get out of the bus, walk across, and then wait for the bus to drive over some temporary boards that had been nailed onto the bridge as a track. It was intense, but I'm appreciating being in a country where people are so politically active. Here is a photo of some political art that was exhibited in a Cuzco plaza:
And finally, some pics of Machu Picchu:
Reminiscing after over 9 years ago! Was glad I went on that trip with you. I spent a month in Argentina and Chile so I was reminded of your trip a bit. And how bad my Spanish is. Not sure this comment would ever be read but as I re-read this blog I was glad I was part of your journey. Trip and life’s. Flo
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