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Published: July 21st 2007
En Route
View from the train.Machu Picchu
So we made it to Machu Picchu last weekend, most definitely the highlight of my trip thus far. We spent 3 days in the small town of Aguas Calentes. REally good to get out of Cuzco for a while. Aguas Calientes has no cars, is 3,000´lower than Cuzco and the air is so fresh. There are some hot springs there as well where we spent a few hours each night. My professor even bought the entire class a round of beers there, excellent time.
The first day we hiked a couple miles through the jungle to some waterfalls. A few of us jumped in the water, which was very invigorating. I´ve been in South America for over 2 weeks now and this was my first glimpse of the jungle, really nice change of scenery.
The next morning we caught the first bus up to Machu Picchu at 5:15am to catch the sunrise. Upon arrival I was absolutely speechless. It´s been said a million times before, but words really cannot do Machu Picchu justice. The jawdropping heights, lush green surroundings, and stonework are absolutely surreal.
The next morning we got up to the ruins by 6am again to hike
Aguas Calientes
Last bit of civilization before Machu Picchu. up to the top of Wayna Picchu. Wayna is a different adventure as well. The hike was only about 45 mins from Machu PIcchu but the trail is almost vertical in some spots. I was on all fours numerous times basically climbing stone ladders. The views from the top were awesome, it made Machu Picchu look miniscule.
I´m flying over to the Amazon basin on Saturday to spend three days in the jungle. Til´then, salud.
PS For anyone wondering about me actually going to school down here, class is amazing. Learning by doing. In the classroom two days/week, in the field 2-3 days/week.
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Brady
non-member comment
Stunning
it looks amazing. I hope that one day I will make that venture...long live preservation...