Jul 12, 2008

Machu Picchu

Machu Picchu.......incredible.  Hiking the Inca Trail was just as spectacular as the actual ruins.  It was amazing to see the Inca's way of life, history and beautiful stone structures.  More so than any of our other adventures, this experience left me with a strong desire to explore the world and be open to all ways of life.  Check it out:
All packed up, it's go time.
Porters getting ready to carry our food, tents and many other luxeries.

Some of the first ruins we saw on day 1
D relaxing after her very first day of backpacking.........in her life!  She carried nearly all her own stuff every day except on the one major hill climb.  All said and done, she rocked the Inca Trail and I was so proud of her. 
D found a couple Jackass' on the trail


A family photo at the top of the tallest mountain climb, day 2.

Day 3 started with rain but did not keep us from enjoying the experience
No guard rails needed.  Just stay away from the edge!
Agricultural terraces that were used for Machu Picchu.  At this point, we were nearing the end of our 10 hour day of hiking.
Day 4 started with a 4 AM wake up and on the trail by 5 AM.  We raced up the trail to be at Machu Picchu for sunrise only to find it covered in the morning clouds.  We sat on a hillside and waited for the clouds to clear.  It was awesome to see little patches of this mountain top city as it cleared up.  We were rewarded with a sunny afternoon and a tour through the ancienct city.



3 comments:

Anonymous said...

Beyond comments--W. O. W.

sherry

Nicole said...

what an amazing adventure. i am so proud of you lil D...you are more of a woman than i will ever be!

Unknown said...

WOW! What an amazing experience. Jealousy continuing to build... :)