The reward at the end of our journey
July 22, 2019
We made our way through Aguas Calientes early in the morning to catch our bus. Machu Picchu sits high above Aguas Calientes and you can take a bus or hike to the entrance. It took 15 minutes to make our way up the steep switchbacks until we were dropped off at the entrance. We had finally arrived at Machu Picchu! The Peruvian officials have strict rules in order to preserve this historical site. You need a reservation that allows you to enter during a prescribed window of time. Thankfully, ours was first thing in the morning.
There was a lot of climbing up and down steep stairs throughout the site once you enter the grounds. It was still pretty empty inside so we were able to get our photos taken at the popular spots. The lower grounds were also free of people which was wonderful! We were able to watch the sunrise peak over the mountain tops before fully illuminating the grounds below.
The workmanship needed to create this ancient city became evident as we made our way around the ruins. The immense rocks are fitted so tightly with the adjoining rocks that no mortar is needed. It can even withstand earthquakes! This really is a magical place. I highly recommend it to anyone who is thinking about it as a destination.
After spending the day in Aguas Calientes, we took a late train back to Ollantaytambo followed by a bus ride back to Cusco. The amazing trek was over and most of our group would be leaving the next day while a few of us were staying to see the rainbow mountains.
I read a wonderful book before I arrived in Peru, Turn Right at Machu Picchu by Mark Adams. It details the discovery of Machu Picchu while the author tries to retrace Hiram Bingham’s trek through the Andes and recounts the Incan history infused in the area. It was a great compliment to my visit.
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