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Swirling in the steamy mists after a summer rain, I had to catch my breath, and it was only partially due to the thin air at nearly 8,000 feet or 2430 metres above sea level. I was in awe of the expanse of Machu Picchu laid out before me. I had seen photos, but none of them could have adequately prepared me for a trip to Machu Picchu.
Catching the early train
The day started with an early morning train ride from Cuzco to the small town near Machu Picchu. The domed windowed ceilings of the train turned what could have been a few extra hours of sleep into part of the adventure. Weaving in and out of the Andes, we hugged the curves of the mountains as each bend gave way to a more stunning view of lush green landscape. The train brings you to the small town nearest to the historic site.
Getting to the top
After what can be a disorienting and colourful walk through of the souvenir market, I chose the bus route over the hiking trail to ascend the final feet to reach the entrance to what was once a getaway for Inca elite. It was close enough to the capital of Cusco, but secluded enough to make it hard to find. Three generations of wealthy Inca visited this place before mysteriously abandoning it until it was rediscovered in the early 20th century.
Pondering Machu Picchu
As you look out across the city, the only thing left to do is climb. With copious breaks for water and breaths of mountain air, I was able to meander through temples and homes and past groups of llamas and tourists to get to secluded spots. At times I felt like I was the only one there surveying the terraced gardens and pondering the realities of innovation and architecture that it took to create them.
Lasting impressions
After two hours of hiking through the site, I took the bus back down in the rain to have lunch overlooking the swelling Urubamba River before snaking back through the mountains on the train to Cuzco. The day was long, but it will always leave me with the impression how beautiful a part of its natural surroundings Machu Picchu was. It enhanced the natural beauty around it creating inspiring views of the valley below.
Nestled in the mountains there is a city beckoning to weave a story of culture and nature together just for you. If you are up for the adventure, go to Machu Picchu.
Join us and experience it for yourself on our Machu Picchu & the Galapagos Islands tour.
Have you been to Machu Picchu? Tell us about your trip below!
