Wednesday, September 14, 2016

That time I went to one of the most ancient lands in the world: Machu Picchu!

     To get to Machu Picchu you first have to fly to Cusco, Peru.  I flew there from Lima where I was living.  It was truly one of the best experiences ever as you will see from the breathtaking photos.  Here are my first moments in Cusco:

From the plane


Landing in Cusco


















     Now its important to understand that you need the first 24 hours to just eat and sleep as the high altitude is very hard to get used to.  I felt light-headed and it was almost impossible to catch my breath the first day but by the next morning it was much more manageable.  My second day I spent exploring the area and enjoying the culture and the food.  Its cold in Cusco so I had to buy a new hat, scarf and coat to avoid freezing. Plus I made sure to buy a raincoat for my trip to Machu Picchu in the likely chance it would rain.  After 2 days in Cusco I booked my train ride to Machu Picchu.  I had to get up at 4 am to meet the driver at 4:30 to take me to the bus which was an hour ride to then get to the train.  This is a long trip so be prepared for an entire day of traveling.  It will all be so worth it when you get there!

View from the Train






Finally arrived

















 













     This has to be the most amazing place I have ever been to.  I never felt more connected to an area before like here.  It was like you could feel the spirit of the people from way back when.  You could feel their souls carried by the wind and the mountains held their smiles.  The stone work left behind after  all these years showed proof that they were here oh so long ago.  And maybe it was just luck but I believe my ancestors allowed me to visit their beautiful land without any of the usual rain!