Friday 26 September 2014
We get up before 5.00 am, have a quick breakfast and head for the bus stop. Although we thought we’d avoid the first rush – the shuttle bus service from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu starts at 5.30 am – we still have to queue and wait for another four buses to fill up.
We didn’t miss the sunrise though – there are too many clouds around this morning
The hills surrounding Machu Picchu are covered with Cloud Forest
At first we can’t see a lot of the site
But then the clouds clear…
Yes, Machu Picchu is a huge tourist attraction, it’s very expensive and complicated to get to and in (visitor numbers are restricted to 2,500 per day), but it is a magical place and absolutely worth the effort.
Much has been written about the world heritage site and millions of photos have been taken which you can find all over the internet; so here are just a few personal images.
Río Urubamba
Huayna Picchu
Johannes taking in the scenery while I enjoy the guided tour
Sophisticated roof fastenings
Vizcacha
Inka Bridge
Johannes! You don’t need to be able to read Spanish to understand the sign…
Not for the ones who suffer from acrophobia…
After clouds, fog and rain we can finally enjoy the views in the sun
Near the top of Huayna Picchu
Full of wonderful impressions we take the bus down into the valley again.
In Aguas Calientes we notice an important bit of information
Then we board the dedicated train back to Ollantaytambo – this time not just with a snack but with entertainment as well –
I get to dance with a local spirit (sorry, I didn’t catch the name – any enlightenment would be gratefully received)
At the train station we’re picked up by a tourist colectivo – courtesy of the tour package.
Tired but happy we return to Cusco around 21.00 hrs – what a marvellous experience, certainly one of the highlights of our trip!
All photos here.
Pumpernickel on Tour 
Stunning pics of a gorgeous location!
Sheila
Thanks,Sheila – I can’t believe it’s already a month that we are on the road. Hope everything is going well in testing land. 🙂
Well, my camp is still standing but its looking a lot like the picture I emailed you before you left lol.
Good news, I’m still here! 😀
We got your postcard from Iguazu falls today, thank you very much. Now trying to decide where to put it up. 🙂
Congratulations, Sheila – although I didn’t expect anything else. 🙂 Glad my first postcard has arrived; not sure if you will get the second from the Salar de Uyuni, as I posted it in Copacabana on Lake Titicaca in the only mailbox in town (you may remember the photo…). Take care & happy testing! Ela