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Yet another early start, we were picked up by our guide, Hugo and headed straight into the mountains. Upon the first sighting of the snow capped peaks, we could not contain our excitement and before we knew it, we were getting geared up for our mountain biking adventure which started at 4300m. Above the clouds and completely surrounded by mountains, the nerves kicked in anticipating the long, winding descent. Although terrified every time we approached a sharp corner at the prospect of falling off or colliding with oncoming traffic, the adrenaline rush and the beauty of our surroundings more than compensated for it. It is hard to put into words how amazing an experience this was. From snow capped mountains, we descended 2000m into the jungle, through waterfalls, past bamboo, exotic flowers and a group of vibrant, squawking parrots. Needless to say, the final dirt track was not the most comfortable and we finished in style- covered in mud, drenched from the waterfalls and aching all over.
To top it all off, we were informed that white water rafting was included in our package and so set off down the Vilcanota river with our own private guide, Cesar. Our rafting skills being just as poor as our rowing skills, lovely Cesar did most of the work while simultaneously explaining the history of the valley. Once again completely drenched, we got a ride to the next village, Santa Teresa where we stopped off for the night. The following morning, after a lie in (!!!) we explored the village and got a taste of the Peruvian jungle, passing by a lodge with views over the canopy and river below. Shortly after, we hopped on the express train to Aguas Calientes, allowing us an amazing view into the depths of the jungle, even spotting avocado, banana and mango trees. After a much needed hot (but unfortunately only for one of us) shower we headed out for dinner. Upon receiving our tickets for Machu Picchu, we noticed that it was dated the 29th while our departing train ticket was for the 28th. Extremely anxious, we were reassured by our guides that all would be ok.
After a sleepless night, we rose at 4am to embark on the long, arduous trek up Machu Picchu. Setting off under a starry sky with a view of the moon over the mountains, we were able to take in the stunning surroundings. However, this was quickly forgotten as all our energy was consumed climbing up an unending number of foot high steps in the pitch black and unexpected humidity. We eventually made it, two hours later. Although relieved, we got gradually more and more nervous on the approach to the check point that our tickets would not be valid for this day. To make things worse, the barcode on Anna´s ticket would not scan but despite close inspection of our tickets we were both let it. The feeling of elation that we had finally made along with the incredible and mystical views that greeted us was inexplicable. We were in awe of the history and location of this sacred town as our guide explained how the last Inca king had destroyed all paths leading to Machu Picchu, so as to prevent the Spanish conquistadors from finding it. The trip was truely a once in a lifetime experience, arriving not only for the centenary of its discovery but also for Peruvian independence day.
Once back in Aguas Calientes, we jumped onto the train back to Cusco only to be entertained by the train staff who treated us to a catwalk of the latest alpaca fashions. However, possibly the best part of the journey was a traditionally dressed, ullulating, dancing mascot who was parading up and down the aisles.
Now safely back in Cusco, finally having caught up on our sleep, we are hoping to join the locals for the Independence day celebrations.
- comments
Margit Girls! What an amazing description of your journey and how wonderful to hear about your experiences. It feels like I am there with you reading it and I am so very glad you are able to take all those wonders fully in - despite all the uncomfortable aches, pains and muck... thanks for a truely amazing report. Have fun and make sure you enjoy the dancing.... ;-) LOL xxx