Machu Picchu
We had an early start again today catching the 6:40 'PeruRail' train from Ollantaytambo to Machu Picchu. From the tourist town at the foot of Machu Picchu we then caught a bus up a very steep winding road to the world famous iconic Inca site. We arrived quite early and it was already busy. We split into two groups and had a three hour tour around the site. What makes Machu Picchu so special is its location. Machu Picchu is stunningly located, perching high in the Andean Mountains amongst jungle and cloud forest, with the river Urambamba running through a gorge far below. No one knows why the Inca city was built high on a mountain top, but it is thought that the city was the location of a royal palace and estate, home to the Inca emperors. Or possibly it was a sacred religious and ceremonial sight. Many of the facts/history/stories about the buildings and temples are the same for other Inca ruin sites. It was discovered in 1911 by the explorer Hiram Bingham, although the ruins were heavily covered by dense jungle foliage, many of the buildings were well preserved and in excellent condition. The city consists of more than 200 buildings, from houses to temples, storage buildings and public spaces. There are many Inca trails in the area connecting to the site and new trails are constantly being discovered.
Sadly Nigel was unwell with a stomach bug so sat out the tour, but at least he can say he'd been to Machu Picchu.
After the tour we returned to the town below for lunch then caught the 16:12 train back to Ollantaytambo. The train service was fantastic and comfortable, everyone was given a complementary drink and snack. We then were bused back to Cusco, a two hour drive arriving at our hotel about 8:30pm.
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