Is it really worth publishing a new post about Cusco and the Machu Picchu ? There are already so many all over the Internet and in all kinds of magazines.
Should we still, naively, enjoy and appreciate the beauty of the place and ignore, more or less voluntarily, the role of tourism in such a sensitive area ?
Should we reopen the debate about the tourists’ behavior in a country where the culture is radically different ? Then, let’s not even talk about the invasions of those places with a strong touristic potential by all those foreign agencies and companies that sometimes quickly monopolize some services, to the detriment of local communities that do not always benefit from economic spinoffs.
What behavior to adopt while roaming the exquisite streets of Cusco, in the middle of those incredible Inca’s walls, seeking a traditionalism many are looking to break away from ?
What is the one too many picture, the one that makes the enthusiastic photographer pass to the rank of tourist looking at the traditional life as one would visit a museum ?
And this other photo of the “authentic” Peru, is it finally not more the picture of a disturbing economic contrast than a cultural testimony ?
Cusco’s Cathedral
After a couple of years spent in Peru, those questions are taking more and more importance during my trips. I don’t have answers, I observe, far too often, the lack of respect of foreign visitors who don’t manage (or don’t want…) to adapt their lifestyle during their journey, without realizing they are missing a part of the experience that a “voyage” is.
Although always trying to follow a guideline I set for myself, I have to face the reality of being part of this large group. Camera in my hand, wandering in the markets, the narrow streets, amidst colorful fabrics is always delightful, though it might only be a cumbersome but necessary routine for the local folks. Travel and leisure are still a luxury for a large majority.
Cusco’s market
In this fast and modern world, a lot of us are more or less fighting for a cause. Maybe should we not forget that of fair tourism, respectful of people and places…
Nevertheless, each trip to Cusco and the nearby ruins remains fascinating and captivating. The following few images are probably worth more than those previous words…
The road home, Cusco
Salinas de Maras, Sacred Valley
The landscape around Machu Picchu is probably as interesting as the site itself…
Diaporama – Slideshow :
In the streets of Cusco
Black and white photo of a street musician in Cusco, Peru, showcasing local culture and street life.
In the streets of Cusco
People walking along a sidewalk in front of a white building with blue doors, window, and graffiti, capturing urban life.
In the streets of Cusco
A scenic view of a historic stone wall and a church tower in Cusco, Peru, highlighting colonial architecture against a mountainous backdrop.
Variety of fruits, always amazing in Peru.
Colorful display of fresh fruits and vegetables at a local market, showcasing variety and quality.
The Inca terraces of Moray.
A stunning aerial shot of an ancient terraced amphitheater carved into the hillside, showcasing historical architecture and scenic natural surroundings.
Detail of the Machu Picchu ruins
Close-up of a stone wall with a small green plant sprouting from the cracks, under a bright blue sky with clouds.
Inca flag in Cusco
A vibrant rainbow pride flag is displayed in front of a historic church, symbolizing LGBTQ+ pride and diversity on a sunny day.
Cusco's market
A lively market scene showcasing fresh poultry, vendors, and customers in a vibrant, authentic Mexican marketplace.
In the streets of Cusco
A charming narrow alley with stone stairs, white walls, and traditional windows, capturing the essence of a picturesque village scene.
Souvenirs market in Ollantaytambo
A lively night market scene featuring colorful stalls, vendors, and visitors exploring various goods under bright lights.
Moray
This image features an Inca archaeological site with circular terraces, stone structures, and a backdrop of mountains under a partly cloudy sky.
Chinchero
A picturesque village scene featuring a white church tower with a bell, a stone cross monument, and a clear blue sky, capturing charming architecture and peaceful ambiance.
The road home, Cusco
This image captures a lively Cusco neighborhood with children playing and a vintage green car, reflecting local culture and architecture in the Sacred Valley.
Stunning view of Machu Picchu with lush green terraces and misty mountains in the background.
A breathtaking landscape of Machu Picchu, showcasing the ancient Incan city surrounded by verdant mountains and fog.
Details of the Inca terraces of Moray
A detailed black and white photograph of stone terraces with layered rocks and curved lines, emphasizing natural textures.
In the streets of Cusco
A classic red Volkswagen Beetle parked on a cobblestone street with old buildings and colorful signs in the background.
In the streets of Cusco
A woman in traditional attire walks along a busy city street, surrounded by pedestrians and historic buildings, capturing urban life and cultural diversity.
The landscape around Machu Picchu is probably as interesting as the site itself...
A black and white photograph of Cusco's mountainous landscape, highlighting the dramatic scenery and historical significance of the Sacred Valley region.
Cusco's Cathedral
A bustling scene in Cusco with tourists and locals around the iconic cathedral, showcasing Peruvian culture.
Cusco's market
A woman in traditional attire sells potatoes and cheese at a bustling Cusco market, capturing local Peruvian culture.
Mountains around Ollantaytambo
A stunning mountain scene featuring steep cliffs, rocky terrain, and low-hanging clouds, showcasing natural beauty and outdoor adventure photography.
Salinas de Maras
A person exploring salt flats with vibrant salt pools and rugged terrain, captured in a professional landscape photograph.
A stunning view of Machu Picchu nestled in the Andes, showcasing ancient ruins and lush greenery, captured by Olivier Steiner Photography.
This image features Machu Picchu, the famous Incan archaeological site in Peru, set amidst green mountains with misty clouds, highlighting its historical and natural beauty.
Artisanal fireworks in front of Cusco's cathedral.
A dynamic fireworks scene captured during a nighttime celebration, showcasing bright sparks and colorful explosions.
Panoramic view of Cusco from the ruins of Sacsayhuamán
Stunning mountain landscape captured by Olivier Steiner Photography, showcasing natural beauty and scenic vistas.
Stunning landscape of Machu Picchu nestled in the Andes, showcasing ancient architecture and vibrant natural scenery.
A breathtaking view of Machu Picchu set amidst lush green mountains in Peru, highlighting the historic site and natural beauty of the Andes.
12 angled stone in Cusco
High-resolution black and white photo of a textured stone wall, ideal for architecture, design, and artistic use.
In the streets of Cusco
A scenic view of a historic town street with traditional architecture, mountain scenery, and people strolling through the charming alleyway.
Salinas de Maras, hundreds of man made salty pool
Close-up of a textured stone brick wall showing detailed, weathered surface ideal for architectural and design projects.
Chinchero, before the rain
Black and white photo showcasing the scenic beauty of mountain terraces and lush forested slopes.
Cusco's market
A woman dressed in traditional attire shopping at a lively indoor market stall with colorful goods and fresh meat displays.
Chinchero
A stunning landscape of Inca ruins with terraced stone walls set against lush mountains and a vibrant blue sky, showcasing historical architecture and natural beauty.
Sunday street market in Cusco
A lively street market with vendors selling flowers and produce, capturing daily life and local commerce.
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