Sure Travel Journey Vol 5.2 Autumn 2019 | Page 65

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Machu Picchu
SACRED VALLEY, PERU
The jagged Andean slopes and expansive
plains of Peru’s Sacred Valley are the
keepers of Incan history.
Situated within the upper Urubamba
River Valley, Sacred Valley’s landscape
is dotted with mountain villages
and crumbling ruins – including one
of the most stunning displays of
ancient architecture: the citadel of
Machu Picchu.
Here the physical and mystical collide.
As legend goes, the Urubamba River
Valley was blessed with fertility by the
gods. Incans considered the lush river
valley to be one of the crucial pins of
the universe due to its astronomical
relation to the Milky Way, which at
certain times of the year arcs high above
the valley.
Visit amphitheatre-like terraces in
Moray, believed to have been used for
agricultural experiments, or witness local
shamans perform age-old Pachamama
ceremonies, worshipping the earth as
the source of life.
Explore the valley’s natural wonders
by road, horseback, mountain bike
or – perhaps best – on foot. Smaller
towns and villages have a laid-back
vibe, enticing road-weary travellers to
recharge with yoga or massage. And, of
course, you have to see Machu Picchu. It
may be a bit overrun with tourists, but it
remains a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
© STEFAN/ADOBESTOCK.COM
GO HERE WITH SURE TRAVEL
Sure Travel’s partner, Travel Vision, offers
a seven-night package for Peru, which
includes Machu Picchu. Our expert
travel consultants can also customise any
itinerary. Visit www.suretravel.co.za or call
0861 47 48 49 for more information.
MAKE MEMORIES FOR LIFE // 65