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Unfortunately they are gone. The bloody stinky rude and
civilized so-called Spanish Conquistadores made a mess here and in the whole of South America… Indians Quecchuas are the legitimate descendants of the Incas.
According to the central Inca creation myth, the Sun
God sent his son Manco Capac and the Moon her daughter "Mama Ocllo" to spread culture and enlightenment throughout the dark, barbaric lands. They emerged from the waters of Lake Titicaca and began their
journey in search of the place where they would found their kingdom. When they reached the site of present-day Cusco, Manco plunged his golden staff into the ground in order to test its suitability, and it duly sank
deep into the fertile soil. This was the sign they found the place for the capital of their kingdom. They named the spot "Cusco"- meaning "navel of the earth". Cusco and the Sacred Urubamba
Valley were established for many years to come. Today, this is the prime destination for the vast majority of Peru's visitors. The architectural beauty of Cusco cannot be overstated. Being here so suddenly was
something incredible. But as advised by Felipe Solsona, we had to "take it easy" during first hours before our bodies would be re-armed with extra blood cells. As was first advice, we ordered 3 teas with
Coca leaves. Coca seems to be a good natural medicine to help fight altitude-related physical troubles. We then went to "la Plaza de Armas" giant square were people meet and talk and rest on the benches
taking in the sun.
THE MACHU PICCHU.
Tomorrow, we are taking a train to the Machu Picchu Historical Sanctuary, 120 km away in the mountains. We just received good news from England. BaseOps our
agent for flying authorizations has sent the Ecuador permit. Next Monday, we resume our flight to the North and are expecting arriving in Ecuador by next Thursday.
So far, this trip has been an incredible
experience. Everyone has been really friendly and helpful. The 2 machines are running beautifully without a slice of a hiccup. Mike and I are in perfect harmony with each other and we never argue for anything. All
choices and decisions come naturally, smoothly. What a fantastic way to discover the world! Just like having two solid motorbikes that can fly over anything. And a road bike could never carry so much equipment and
passion...
29th of April 1999 CUSCO, ANDES, PERU
Olivier
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