Western Wanderlust Chronicles

Day 5: Machu Picchu Part 1

At 4:00 am, the alarm on my phone pierced the tranquil silence. Despite the allure of our cozy beds, the anticipation of the day ahead propelled us to our feet. This was it—day 5 of our epic adventure, culminating in the visit to one of the Seven Wonders of the World, Machu Picchu.

After a delightful breakfast at the hotel, Bill, Greg and I gathered in the lobby along with our group, excitement buzzing in the air. Setting out into the darkness, we boarded the bus that would take us up the winding path to the gates of Machu Picchu. The morning was cloaked in a gentle fog, adding an ethereal quality to the atmosphere. Stepping through the gates for the first time, I felt a wave of awe and disbelief wash over me. We were finally here.

As we ascended to Circuit 2, llamas greeted us, grazing nonchalantly on the terraces. It felt like stepping into a dream. We stood there, mesmerized, as the fog rolled in and out, shrouding the ancient city in a veil of mystery. The thick fog only enhanced the enchantment of the moment, making it feel like we had stepped back in time.

Our guide, Porfi, gathered us for a fascinating history lesson, painting vivid pictures of the past. We then embarked on a tour of the incredible ancient site, exploring temples, houses, palaces, and cultivated fields. Each structure told a story of the people who once thrived here. The precision of the Inca construction left us speechless—massive stones fitted perfectly together without mortar, a testament to their architectural genius.

One of the highlights was seeing the different houses, from royal residences to more modest abodes. We passed altars, stone compass, storage spaces, and areas of unfinished work, each revealing more about the daily lives of the Inca. The intricate details, from the carved stones to the strategic placement of each building, were awe-inspiring. Porfi’s explanations brought these details to life, transforming stone ruins into a living, breathing narrative.

Next, we faced the challenge of Huayna Picchu Mountain, also known as Wayna Picchu, which looms on the north side of Machu Picchu. The climb promised to be strenuous but rewarding, offering unparalleled views of the ancient city and the surrounding landscape. As we prepared for the ascent, we couldn’t help but feel a mix of excitement and trepidation, knowing this final push would be the climax of our unforgettable journey.

Stay tuned for part 2, where we conquer Huayna Picchu and delve deeper into the mysteries of Machu Picchu!