Cusco and The Sacred Valley of the Incas, Peru
Flights from Lima, which is at sea level, to 11,000 foot high Cusco only take a little bit over one hour. On the plane you are told to take it easy for the next two or three days as the altitude sickness can affect you.
From the 13th into the 16th century Cusco was the capital of the Inca Empire. In 1983, UNESCO declared Cusco a World Heritage Site. Since then Cusco has become a main tourist attraction. Since it is recommended that you relax a few days after you arrive in Cusco, it is a good idea to explore the city and the Sacred Valley of the Incas while you acclimatize yourself to the high altitude. Throughout the city, signs are in English and many natives speak a bit of English, but it is always a good idea to practice some Spanish.
The Sacred Valley of the Incas has now an added attraction for any adventurer. Approximately 400 feet off the ground on the side of a cliff edge, you can enjoy an overnight stay at the Skylodge Adventure Suite, which offers a breathtaking panoramic view of the valley through a transparent luxury capsule. The suite comes complete with double beds, a dining area with prepared food, a bottle of wine and even a private bathroom (with curtains.) Each pod can sleep up to four people.
The main way to get to the capsule involves a two-hour climb via ferrata. The via ferrata is a pre-laid cabled climbing route supported with iron stepping rungs and pegs as well as cabled bridges and ladders. Coming down involves a five stage zipline, one stage of which is 1600 feet long. Adventurers are accompanied by experienced guides.
Skylodge writes its website: “Our vertically hanging transparent capsule suites are situated at the top of our mountain with a 300 degree view of the majestic sacred valley.”
Prices start at almost $300 per person and include private transportation to and from your hotel, a trained guide, equipment, snacks, a gourmet dinner and breakfast the next morning.
Take a look at this amazing video of the ascent and decent to and from the Skylodge: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=U9dNHvvUBO0
What an adventure! Enjoy Peru!