between. Our run started around 12,000 feet, at that elevation there just isn't enough oxygen to go around. I approached our first hill intending to slowly shuffle my way over it...optimistically imagining all downhill after this. I got to the top with my heart pounding in my ears. I could see my vision pulsating as well and decided there was no shame in walking the next hill. And yes, there was another hill and another and another. The last mile wove through Cusco, all unmarked, locals (who seemed utterly shocked to see people running) happily pointed us all in the correct direction.
As I said we were all a bit skeptical about today's 8 mile rolling hills. Fortunately most of us are stubborn enough to throw ourselves into the unknown trail. We were rewarded with a very comfortable run around the salt mines. Our tour guide (Freddy) gave us a short lecture (5 min) on the salt mines then pointed out that running through them was far more entertaining than the driving tour.
We are currently in a small town called Yucay, located in the sacred valley. We are near the Urambamba river which we will be rafting tomorrow, then its off to the Inca trail.
If anyone is interested, I am posting pictures on facebook... Mo Gillis... I will put them up here when I get home, my blackberry does many things well, but blogging is not one of them.