Cusco – Page 23 – Pirwa Hostels BLOG

The Via Ferrata: Rock Climbing, Rapelling & Ziplines in the Sacred Valley of the Incas

October 20, 2014 Pirwa

For an active adventure in the Sacred Valley of the Incas, consider the Vía Ferrata, the Iron Way. You’ll find it in Urubamba, near the town of Ollantaytambo.

Along the Vía Ferrata, with the help of a system of steel-enforced horizontal cables and vertical iron ladders, even beginners with zero climbing experience can tackle a 300m sheer rock face! The return trip can either be by a series of six ziplines or by rappel. All in all, it’s a jam-packed day trip that boasts both excitement and scenic views.

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Pros & Cons: The Inca Trail to Machu Picchu vs the Salkantay Trek

October 9, 2014 Pirwa

The Inca Trail is iconic thanks to its history as part of the Royal Road system that connected the Inca Empire. This history is shown through various remains (especially Inca paving) along parts of the trail. Thanks to this, combined with the natural setting and the stunning finish at Machu Picchu, it is considered the number one trek in South America. For those who don’t have 4 days free to complete the Classic Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, there’s also a truncated 2-day version which skips the grueling Dead Women’s Pass but includes the highlights of Wiñay Wayna and the Inti Punku Sun Gate.

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The New Pirwa San Blas is Open for Business!

September 9, 2014 Pirwa

Pirwa San Blas Hostel has moved to a new location this week! It was a bit sudden, but the opportunity was irresistible. The new site offers a more central location, still four blocks from Cusco’s main square but now just half a block from the Plaza San Blas. At the plaza’s fountain, simply climb the steps, turn right, and walk half a block. This places it right in the heart of San Blas, the city’s historic artists’ district- there’s a bakery and café, some restaurants, and artisanal stores just a few steps from the door!

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The Cheapest Way to Visit Machu Picchu, in 7 Steps

August 28, 2014 Pirwa

There’s no road access to Aguas Calientes; you must arrive by foot or train. Because the train is the most expensive part of a visit to Machu Picchu, and treks costs more, some budget-conscious travelers choose to walk the tracks, following these 7 steps to visit Machu Picchu as cheaply as possible:

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Artsy San Blas, Cusco’s Most Picturesque Neighborhood

August 16, 2014 Pirwa

The most colorful neighborhood in Cusco is San Blas, which is easily found just four blocks from the city’s main square. It’s a bit of a steep uphill walk (especially for someone still adjusting to the city’s high altitude), but the effort wins you great views overlooking the city and has earned San Blas the nickname of the balcony of Cusco. It also boasts some of the Cusco’s most notable restaurants and bars as well as Saturday art fairs.