Sun Gate and Machu Picchu

    It is amazing to me that a full month has passed since we arrived home from Peru, and yet this blog, begun with excellent intentions is yet not done.  Let's just say that grandchildren, the arrival of spring and the need/hope to deal with all things outdoors, never mind the fever to get on the bikes again, has derailed me!

      But enough, on with the trek!

     Day 3 of the Inca Trail  brought us to see a number of stunning Inca sites.  This part of the trail was far less demanding and shorter than the first two days.  Good thing for Al, since tummy troubles hit him with a vengeance!   Tummy troubles affected a fair number of our group, however, I have to say that I was amazed by the concern, thoughtfulness and willingness of each person to help the other.  I think the reason we like adventure holidays so much is the kinship that grows so quickly from a shared and appreciated challenge, amongst a group of strangers.  Fitting perhaps that this was the day that we would leave an offering to the Inca gods!

     On the fourth day we were up early again to a stunningly beautiful clear blue sky.  As with the other mornings were awoken by one of the porters knocking on our tent and offering a bowl of hot water for washing and a cup of hot tea.  Such luxury, it was exquisite.

     The early clear sky gave way to clouds, cool temperatures and misty drizzle as we first descended to Winay Wayna then down through the cloud forest before proceeding to the Sun Gate (Inti Punku) and what  Carlos called the "oh my gawd steps" a column of Inca steps that defy description!

     For us the clouds and drizzle added a kind of mystical quality to our trek to this special place.

     We waited patiently for the clouds to part and show us Machu Picchu below.  The effect was spectacular.  It was as if nature was going to reveal this place in its own time and way.  This was no mere tourist stop or scenic spot to be photographed and forgotten.  After the days and effort of trekking we had to wait.  And then it happened, little by little, the veil was lifted and there it was.  Breathtaking, beautiful and incomprehensible.

 We descended the last short distance at once enchanted and exhilarated that we had made it.  Exploration of the site and our learning about it was to wait for the next day.  Where we headed first was to the natural hot springs of Augus Calientus.  A hot soak and a couple of cold pisco sours was the best therapy for the weary wanderer!