Today, our team explored Machu Picchu, one of the new 7 wonders of the world and the final destination of our trek! We got up early to catch the bus up to the Inca citadel, and found long lines of people waiting with us. A Machu Picchu guide gave us a tour around many well known parts of the city. Built on a ridge at 2,430 metres (7,970 ft), it is surrounded by sharp high peaks that drop dramatically down to the Urubamaba river. The inca built this place in harmony with the nature that they worshipped and the stonework is unbelievable. How did they lift 15,000 lb + rocks and align their windows perfectly with constellations and solstices?
Some of us climbed to the top of Montana Machupicchu, at 3,082 meters (10,111 feet) above sea level the climb is a 652 meter hike up steep Inca stairs that wind all the way up! On top are great views of the whole complex nestled in the ridge with Huayna Picchu behind.
The rest of the group check out the sun gate where the Inca trail enters Machu Picchu and then photographed their way to lunch at the Sanctuary Lodge.
We all retreated to the Inkaterra hotel after lunch to relax and enjoy the hot pools, bird watching and shade. Tommorow we take the train back to Cusco and wrap up this awesome trek. It has truly been an awesome trip with great people, scenery and hiking throughout.
Stay tuned for one last post tomorrow!
-Anna Zajicek
