Offering to Pachamama (Mother Earth) Following a three and a half day arduous trek across the Andes Mountains on the Inca Trail, Machu Picchu awaited my arrival. A sacred place in many ways, Machu Picchu holds a key to my spirit that cannot be explained. The Quechua Indians […]
Chinchilla!! Found in the Citadel of Machu Picchu, Chinchillas run freely through the stoned walls and pathways. This “Cuscomys Oblativa” resides only at the Machu Picchu ruins. So truly a foreign and rare sight to see.
Huge boulders are found at the Inca ruins of Sacsayhuaman. A total marvel in themselves, understanding that their weight can be up to 70 tons makes you wonder how the Incas moved them. The quarry where they came from named Sisicancha is over 3 kilometers away! Placed perfectly […]
An elderly Quechua woman walking through the bustling market of San Pedro in Cusco, Peru. Surrounded by many, but walking a solitary path. Her hard life written clearly on her face as she shuffles along the hard stone walkway. Where she was going, no one knows.
Walking the colonial streets of Cuzco, Peru one is reminded of the dominance of the Spaniards over the Incas in the early 1500’s. Being the capital of the Inca Empire, conquest of Cuzco was the triumph of the Spanish. In celebration of their success, and their determination to […]
One of my favorite things to do when traveling is to visit local grocery stores and markets. In many developing countries, fresh food markets are still where the locals shop instead of the sterile grocery stores more progressive countries have. The San Pedro Central Market in Cuzco, Peru […]
Ollantaytambo, the primary gateway to one’s journey to Machu Picchu is a truly authentic ancient Inca and modern Quechua village. Located in the Sacred Valley about an hour and half drive from Cuzco, this village is home to one of the finest archeological sites in Peru. Built on […]
One can never get enough of flowers. Flowers here, Flowers there, Flowers everywhere. Beautiful flowers in pots, lovingly cultivated by first hand crafting a ceramic pot with clay from the Andes. Bright pink Bouganvilla hanging along the walls that Quechua owners planted for decoration. Gives a florescent dash […]
My favorite time of year to visit the Sacred Valley region in Peru is early May. Just after the rainy season has ended, the sacred valley is green and vibrant with colors throughout. For a brief period one can enjoy the bright green valley before the dry and […]
Nestled in the Sacred Valley is the ancient town of Pisac. Pisac is a favorite stop among international visitors with a vibrant market filled with textiles and other Peruvian goods for purchase. Taking the back road out of town, high on the mountain range stands the Inca ruins […]
Emily Carter ~ Nature as Art 