Summary
On the morning we were set to visit Machu Picchu, our alarms rang at 3 AM.
There is a comprehensive explanation for our early start, primarily related to our need to ascend Huayna Picchu – the mountain prominently featured in most images of Machu Picchu. Consequently, at around 3:45 AM (having prepared our bags the night prior), we departed for the bus stop. Before departing, we stopped at the reception of the Inkaterra to collect the breakfast they had prepared specifically for us, knowing our early departure time.
There are two avenues to reach Machu Picchu: trek for approximately two hours or opt for a thirty-minute bus ride.
We believed we had chosen the more convenient option by selecting the bus. However, the bus was not scheduled to leave until 6 AM, which indicated a potential for extra sleep. The catch is that one must endure lengthy queues to board the bus.
Arriving at 4 AM, we joined the queue, cautious not to take risks given our considerable travel distance to arrive here. To our surprise, the line was already stretching around the block multiple times, even at that early hour! Thus, at 4 AM, we found ourselves standing in heavy rain, awaiting the bus!
It is imperative to mention the rain! This was not the typical rain experienced in the UK or Europe, where descriptions of ‘heavy’ rain often mask its true nature due to windy conditions. Instead, this was intense precipitation that felt like small pebbles pelting against us!
Fortunately, the exhilaration and anticipation of witnessing one of the world’s wonders eclipsed anything the rain could challenge us with (almost literally as well). Consequently, we maintained high spirits throughout our wait. Furthermore, we had come prepared with waterproof jackets, trousers, and footwear, and even purchased waterproof ponchos from local vendors for others who were less equipped, keeping ourselves relatively dry. (*Initially, we were concerned about exploring Machu Picchu in the deluge, but we realized it was an unavoidable situation).
Miraculously, as soon as we reached Machu Picchu, the downpour ceased, and as we walked through the entry gates, sunlight began to emerge from behind the clouds. We could scarcely believe our fortune!
Upon entering, you do not have to wait long to behold the citadel.
Right before you is the awe-inspiring view, yet it is advisable not to linger here. One should ascend a few metres (utilizing the path to the left), from where an astonishing perspective of this magnificent site is revealed.
*I did indeed capture many similar photographs! 😄
Subsequently, we descended into the citadel for an up-close exploration of Machu Picchu.
It was truly remarkable! The clouds hovering over Huayna Picchu in the distance only enhanced the spectacle!
The realization that inhabitants once called this place home and constructed such an intricate and remarkable village is nothing short of astonishing. It serves as a testament to the immense potential for human achievement found throughout the globe, not merely in affluent regions often highlighted in mainstream media.
Such contemplation leads to intriguing reflections as one considers the potential narratives emerging from this site. What would it have been like for the residents of this place? Engaging in their daily activities, socializing with neighbors, cherishing moments with loved ones, and participating in various communal activities. Although it may sound whimsical or somewhat absurd, I often ponder about the lives of people residing in these areas during the 1400s.
