Machu Picchu, Peru
13° 9' S 72° 29' W
Apr 27, 2005 17:45
Distance 28km

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Finally...Machu Picchu!

Text written in: English

Like most people I`ve wanted to see Machu Picchu for ages and ages. With so many top sights in the world it has to take something to really supercede all expectations to make it into the top 5 list. Machu Picchu did.

After the 4 day hike, including altitude, shitty tents, a walk down 2200 steps, we finally made it to the Sun gate and got the first view of the city. Sitting in a bowl of jungle covered mountains, with all the mystery that surrounds it, this city that was the heart of the Inca empire, the university for the Incas, was a tremendous sight.

As if the walk to get there wasn`t enough there was still the option to climb the big Huayna Picchu mountain behind the city. It`s the only way to see the fact that the terraces of Machu Picchu are built in the shape of a condor. Groan. For a big wuss like me who isn`t exactly chuffed with heights, it was not the hour long climb I was looking forward to. Before going up one guide said "it`s easy, there are ropes to help you" and the other said "even for me, seeing the Urubamba river so far below whilst clinging to the ropes makes me shit it". Hmmm. Anyway, the view from the top was stunning.

All in all a brilliant trip and a new sight to go in the top 5 all time check list. Top highlights included:

. Playing football with the porters and guides on the first night at 3100m. Now I know how England felt in the 86 Mexico world cup finals.

. The incredible gourmet food at every meal.

. Stupidly getting drunk with the porters the night before having to get up at 4am to see the sun come over Machu Pichu.

. Of course the 1st view of Machu Picchu from the sun gate...

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Photos / videos of "Finally...Machu Picchu!":

On the trail to Machu Picchu Camp site for the first night. Some of the group, just before heading to the Dead Woman`s pass...behind. At 4200m, the highest point of the trek. Camp sight the second night...cold it was too. Machi Picchu. Sweet. Post card view View of Machu Picchu from Huayna Picchu. Terraces are in the shape of a condor.
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