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Published: August 1st 2014
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As we arrived in Cusco there was so much to see and do! Cusco was such an amazing city; the proximity to the Sacred Valley makes it the best place to stay when you are making your way to Machu Picchu.
There was a great flea market close to our hotel (Eco Inn)where we were able to pick up souvenirs at great prices. Also, a small grocery store where we could buy our bottled water (necessity) for a really good price.
While I loved our time in Cusco (and the surprise parade we ran into while exploring the city) what I really loved was the time we spent in the Sacred Valley. I honesty wish we would have allowed for one extra day for the Sacred Valley. Even though we were able to see most of the sites in the two days we had, one more day would have allowed us to see the salt mines, something we wanted to explore.
After a day in Cusco and a day in the Sacred Valley Melissa and I left on a guided tour to Huchuy Qosqo. Our Tour Company
Llama Path was awesome! They took care of everything!! We felt
safe along the way, and as two women traveling alone that was a huge win! Plus they were knowledgeable and fun!
While our two-day trek was beautiful and completely unforgettable, there are parts that I wish I could forget! Like the fact that the altitude killed me… well really it was more like I was wishing it would kill me! As we trekked from Tambomachay at 12,631 feet to Huchuy Qosqo at a whopping 14,107 feet, and I was also suffering from a stomach bug, the altitude sickness was just the topping on a really icky day.Did I say how awesome oue tour guides were? So great in this really "sick" situation. My biggest recommendation is before you go make sure you get the altitude sickness medicine! I just wish I would have known about it before we left! there is medicine they have there that is recommended; in hind site, definitely something to consider.
After we descended down the mountain to Lamay at about 10,000 feet we headed to Aguas Calientes, via train. While in Aguas Callentes we decided to go to the Hot Springs… Let's just say it was not my favorite. The water was filthy
and only lukewarm at best. No need to waist your time or money(20 sole') on this attraction!
When the time came for us to head to Machu Picchu, Melissa and I decided to conserve our energy and take the first bus up to the gate. In order to see the sun rise we arrived at the bus stop around 4:00 in the morning... While it was early it was also worth it! FABULOUS!!!
Machu Picchu speaks for itself, truly breathtaking! It was so peaceful to watch the sunrise over the mountains and enjoy the feeling of tranquility, as the grounds were not yet over run with people. Early morning was amazing!
There are additional hikes that one can do inside Machu Picchu that require additional permits, the hike of Machu Picchu Mountain and the hike of Waynapicchu Mountain (AKA: the Inca Butt Lift). Melissa and I had permits to hike Wanapicchu, and it was absolutely incredible! While this hike is not for the faint of heart, or anyone who is afraid of heights if you can overcome the fear, it is absolutely a memory that will forever be etched in your mind!
This is truly a
once in a lifetime experience and one that no one should miss!
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