A Journey Through the Andes
Machu Picchu, one of the most breathtaking and iconic destinations in the world, was an unforgettable experience for us. From the vibrant city of Cusco to the towering peaks of Huayna Picchu, every step of our journey was filled with adventure, culture, and stunning landscapes. Here’s a personal account of how we made our way through this incredible journey and why having the right gear, including proper footwear, made all the difference.
Our Itinerary: A Step-by-Step Adventure
We spent our first day in Cusco, which sits at an altitude of 3,400m (11,152 ft). This historic city is rich in archaeological sites, and we took the time to explore its cobbled streets, colonial architecture, and ancient Incan ruins. Cusco is also a culinary hub, and we enjoyed local delicacies like lomo saltado, ceviche, and the famous pisco sour.
The next day, we embarked on our journey to Machu Picchu Pueblo (also known as Aguas Calientes). Since there is no direct train from Cusco, we first took a bus operated by the train service to Ollantaytambo, a charming town in the Sacred Valley. From there, we boarded a panoramic train, which offered stunning views of the Andean mountains and the Urubamba River as we made our way to Machu Picchu Pueblo.
Upon arriving in Machu Picchu Pueblo in the evening, we took in the peaceful atmosphere, had dinner at a local restaurant, and prepared for the next day’s climb. The town is small but vibrant, with markets selling handmade crafts, cozy cafés, and natural hot springs—a perfect place to unwind after exploring Machu Picchu.
Reaching Machu Picchu: Our Experience
The following morning, we set off early to visit Machu Picchu (2,430m / 7,970 ft). There are two ways to reach the citadel from Machu Picchu Pueblo:
1) By bus: A 25-minute winding ride up the mountain.
2) By foot: A challenging hike up steep steps for about 1.5 to 2 hours.
We opted for the bus ride in the morning to save energy for the hike ahead. When we arrived at Machu Picchu, it felt surreal to finally see it in person. The photos we had seen before didn’t come close to capturing the scale of the ruins, the stunning mountain backdrop, or the sense of history surrounding us. It was an incredible moment, taking it all in after the journey to get there.
Exploring Huayna Picchu
Inside Machu Picchu, visitors can explore several areas, including:
Huayna Picchu (2,720m / 8,920 ft) – The famous towering peak seen in the classic photos of Machu Picchu.
Machu Picchu Mountain (3,082m / 10,111 ft) – A less crowded but steeper climb.
Huchuy Picchu (2,497m / 8,192 ft) – A smaller, less strenuous alternative.
We chose to climb Huayna Picchu, which was an exhilarating yet demanding experience. The ascent is steep, with narrow stairways and exposed pathways known as the "Stairs of Death." The climb took about an hour, but the panoramic views from the top were absolutely worth it. With mist rolling over the ruins below and the vast Andean mountains stretching in every direction, it was a truly breathtaking sight.
Essential Tips for Climbing Huayna Picchu:
Wear proper footwear: The steps are steep and sometimes slippery, so shoes with good grip are essential.
Pack light: A small backpack with water, snacks, and sunscreen is enough.
Book in advance: Only a limited number of visitors can climb Huayna Picchu per day, so securing tickets early is crucial.
Be mindful of altitude: At nearly 2,720m, altitude can make the hike feel more intense, so pace yourself and take breaks as needed.
Relaxing at the Hot Springs
After an adventurous morning and early afternoon exploring Machu Picchu, we returned to Machu Picchu Pueblo to unwind. One of the best ways to relax was by visiting the hot springs, which are known for their soothing thermal waters. Soaking in the warm pools, surrounded by lush green mountains, was the perfect way to end the day.
Returning to Cusco
The following morning, we took the train back to Ollantaytambo, followed by a bus to Cusco, where we spent another evening enjoying the city’s vibrant atmosphere before flying back to Lima.
Final Thoughts
Our trip to Machu Picchu was truly unforgettable. From exploring Cusco to hiking Huayna Picchu and relaxing in the thermal springs, every part of the journey was filled with adventure and discovery. Having the right gear, including waterproof clothing and sturdy, high-grip shoes, was crucial in making the experience comfortable and safe.
If you’re planning your own journey to Machu Picchu, be prepared for varying weather conditions, pack wisely, and embrace the incredible landscapes that await you. And most importantly, enjoy every step of the adventure!
