Journey to Machu Picchu, Part II
Has there been a place that you had always wanted to go? For me, it was Machu Picchu and the world!
Started the day with an early breakfast at 5am so that we can enjoy the sunrise over Machu Picchu. The views over this lost city of the Incas, as the sun climbed up the horizon, were magnificient. With the passing minutes, the interplay between the sun’s rays and the shadows from the surrounding mountain peaks rewarded us with ever-changing views. These same mountain peaks and the dense jungles were the reasons why the Spanish conquistadores failed to find Machu Picchu, a UNESCO World Heritage Site .
After a 4-day Salkantay Trek, I am posing for the classic postcard shot!
Spending some 7 hours, more than the standard 2 hours, our group of very seasoned trekkers, except for me as a newbie, engaged in discussions about the Incas and their civilization compared with their experiences in the Himalayas and Kilimanjaro. Our Inca guide, visibly proud of his ancestry, spent nearly 7 hours explaining the legends and exploits of the inhabitants of Machu Picchu. Tired out by the hours of walking up and down the site, a rest in the shade quickly turned into a snooze. And I was dreaming of the many more wonderful treks that I can do soon…
Now, it’s time for you to go through your bucket list, pick up a place that you so dearly wanted to go and start planning.
I’m headed to Machu Picchu next July and I can’t wait. We are going to hike the Inca trail! How was it? Any problems with the elevation?
Wonderful. I can feel your excitement of trip to Machu Picchu via the “classic” Inca Trail. July is a good season. Effects of elevation or altitude sickness can affect people regardless of age. Our group of seven had three nights of altitude acclimatisation in Cusco. Despite that, a member had severe altitude problem and was warded a night in hospital. Compounded by a bad stomach, she could not join the trekking portion. Cheers
Thanks for the info. I’ll be in Cusco for 2 days before the hike – hopefully that will help! Cheers.
July is coming soon, and your Machu Picchu trip is getting near. Imagine the excitement Atticus. Tell us about your trip later…
Cusco ‘s elevation at 3600 m (11,200 ft) is good place to acclimatise. There are many Inca sites to visit. The highest pass on the Inca trail is a bit higher and Machu Picchu is lower. Prepare your hiking boots…
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