After breakfast at the hotel and the sorting all the luggage ("this little one goes on the train, that large one stays on the bus"), we traveled a short distance to the Ollanta railroad station to board the Vistadome train that would take us through the lush Urubamba Valley, passing through stunning scenery en route to the Lost City of the Incas, Machu Picchu, one of the most spectacular and enigmatic archaeological sites in the world (8,000 feet above sea level). Unknown to the outside world until archaeologist Hiram Bingham rediscovered it in 1911, Machu Picchu is now the most recognizable symbol of the Incan Empire. Believed to have served as a country retreat town for Inca nobility, the complex consists of giant walls, terraces, and ramps constructed from precisely cut rock formations. This impressive architectural feat, in combination with its breathtaking natural setting amid mist-covered green mountains above the rushing Uruhamba River, makes for a visually stunning, and even mystical experience.
The train ride up the mountain was a rather pleasant 2 hours. Once we arrived at the Aguas Calientes station (at the foot of Machu Picchu) we boarded a bus that took us to the El MaPi Hotel where we were staying that evening. When our bags were stowed away, we had a quick lunch and then again boarded a bus to take us up the mountain to begin our climb on foot.
This is the plaque about Machu Picchu in Aguas Calientes.
Scenery from the bus as it traveled around the mountain climbing above the river. Note besides the valley and the river there is a clearing where the moving train is visible.
As we looked toward the higher elevations around the mountain we could see lots of clouds and finally some animals as we reached the area where we began our actual climbing on foot. (with both Sylvia & I having a new walking stick)!
As we climbed our guide, Evie, gave us an ongoing commentary about this place. To not miss anything our group stayed together with Evie. Below, finally the beginning steps.
Water running from the rocks.
Finally, the top!
The clouds start to move in.
Below, Huayne Picchu
and, Sylvia carefully descending.
The clouds continue to move in.
And, we made it down without any problems! The remainder of the day was at our leisure in Aguas Calientes. We checked into the hotel and located our room. The El MaPi Hotel seemed much like a "glorified" hostel. But, it was adequate. Dinner that evening was at the hotel and we slept well.
