We leave Cusco early, and take private transport to the interesting ruins of Tambo Machay. From here we climb steeply upwards until we have spectacular views over Cusco City. We then cross the mountains, pass pretty alpine lakes, and pastures where llamas graze. Campesino farmers also grow potatoes here. We then follow an Inca trail downward to a village of stone huts, with thatched straw on their roofs. During the day we cross four gentle passes, the highest of which is 4350m. As such, while this is considered an “easy” hike by Andean standards you should still be prepared to climb for quite a few hours upwards. After about 6 hours we arrive at a small hamlet known as Pucamarca, where we will camp for the night.