Ngaire - any chance there will be a Black Sea itinerary in 2009?

For the Machu Picchu and Galapagos folks:

The altitude is a factor, and you need a few days to acclimate. Our trip started in Cusco for three nights and then went into the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu. I think Ngaire's suggestion re: go to Sacred Valley first makes far more sense. Drink the mate tea, lots of water, walk slowly, take rest breaks as needed and avoid the alcohol until you've adapted. Some folks find their memory is affected as well. With a few days' time, everyone in our group had adapted. Until then, we had some funny conversations which no one could remember later.

Eight days is about right (2 nights Sacred Valley, 2 nights Machu Picchu, 2-3 nights Cusco depending on time you leave Lima for Ecuador). Personally, I loved the site and we did some decent side hikes as part of our stay. We needed the two overnights at Sanctuary Lodge to do all of that exploring. Others who are not interested in the hiking may find one overnight enough time to enjoy this spectacular site.

Cheers, Anne