Once more we were baaaad backpackers: the scenic train to Aguas Calientes (also known as Machu Picchu Pueblo) is the most luxury way to get to Machu Picchu but its worth every penny 😉 While travelling you can see the change in landscape and vegetation. The village of Aguas Calientes lies in a deep gorge below the ruins of Machu Picchu. Therefore, it’s a good idea to have an overnight stay for having an early access to Machu Picchu.
We got up at 5:00 am (!!!) in order to catch the bus before 6:00 am. This ancient city wasn’t discovered until the early 20th and its actual purpose and function is still a matter of speculation. But what is known for sure: The location is one of the most spectacular we have seen on our whole trip! When we arrived at Machu Picchu there were some other people already therefore we decided to start the real hike to Machu Micchu Mountain. It’s a steep path with loooots of stairs. Hiking the 700m altitude difference took us around 1,5 hour. Arriving at the top we got rewarded with an amazing view of Machu Picchu and Wayna Picchu (the mountain in the back of Machu Picchu). But also the surrounding landscape with its snow covered mountains is breathtaking. We enjoyed the view for almost two hours 😉 Machu Picchu exceeded our expectation’s and we spend the full day exploring the ruins.
Amazing landscape on the way
Aguas Callente situated in the valley below Machu Picchu
First glimps of Machu Pichu in the morning
Climbing Machu Picchu Mountain turned out to be one hell of a staircase
View from the top (buttom center you see Machu Picchu)
The Inca bridge
A lady freaked out while Niels was climbing to the edge of the cliff – her comments made everyone laugh their asses off
Our new “friendly” friends
He tried to kiss Niels
Pretending to be friends
The night before visiting Machu Picchu some professional Jenga gaming went on!