Use Lima as a connection point to Cuzco. From here you take the train 3 hours to Machu Pichu. You must allow 2 nights for Cuzco. The train leaves at about 7 AM. Note that most overnight flights from the US arrive in LIM in time to make domestic connections to Cuzco. Also, due to weather conditions, the LAST flights to Cuzco from LIM depart before noon. On the return, flights leave CUZ early enough to connect to International flights to the US. Cuz itself is a fascinating tourist town with plenty to see and do. Concerning LIM, be prepared to see many "guards" and guns, althought I have never heard any shots in 3 trips. The Miraflores is a nice, safe area to walk arounf in. The downtown, "central" area is not so nice. San Isidro is also a nice area.

[This message has been edited by Vulcan (edited 03-28-2000).]