Final Day, Machu Picchu

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First in line at the last checkpoint at 4.15am, the mist was still thick and drizzle in the air.

The checkpoint opened at 5.30am, and by now there were a queue of people ready for the last hurdle. The last walk to Machu Picchu lasts for around 2 hours.

After the first walk we reached the Sun Gate. And to dis-appointment, the Mist hasn´t budged, its way too thick to be able to see the site. We hang around for 45 minutes, but nothing, its too thick. So we make the last walk down.

I got there first in our group, and through the mist, there it was!!! The mist just kept giving glimpses. But after a few hours it pretty much cleared, and there was the famous sight that you see in many pictures. Julio took us for a guided tour around the sight. We had hot sun and rain again, but it didn´t spoil it, it is a truly incredible place, and definitly one of the wonders of the world. After a long day, most of our group caught the bus for lunch down to the local town, but I stayed at the site with my friends Dan and John, and we climbed the big mountain at the back of the ruin that you see in all the pictures!!! It was bloody scary at the top of that mountain, still cant believe I did it, but the view was amazing. So glad I did climb up, it was well worth it.

After a long fabulous day, we then got the bus to the local town, had lunch and met everyone else. Then a great train journey to Ollantaytambo, and coach back to our hotel in Cusco, arriving at 7.45pm.

It was an absolutely amazing experience, will never forget it. learnt a lot about the Inca Civilisation too.

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Photos

Machu Picchu
Machu Picchu

Machu Picchu
Machu Picchu

Machu Picchu
Me, John on the left, Dan on right, at the top of the largest of the two mountains at Machu Picchu.

Comments

[Karen]

Small World
I was at Machu Picchu on January 4th. I know the line-up at the gate. The rat race to get there first. I dilly dallied the whole way because I didn't want to be caught in the rush. Sorry to hear you missed the view from the sun gate. It's very inspiring. After 3 days of hiking on a trail that seems like it will never end... it takes your breath away when you realize you're there and it's not just a figment of your imagination. http://spaces.msn.com/moondoggie1/

[Prof]

Enjoyed your blog
thanks for posting. trying to decide if we want to go during spring break.