Our journey to Machu Picchu started in Cusco where Our lovely driver picked us up at 10am and he headed towards Ollaytaytombo which took just over 2 hours to arrive.
On the way there we stopped at a textile business. There are 8 families who work here creating bags, scarves, ponchos and accessories from lamas wool. One of the workers shows us how they cleaned and dyed the wool which was amazing!! They grate a root called sactana (not sure about spelling) which is a natural way to fully clean the wool. They use a variety of different plants, herbs and cactus bugs to naturally color the will. I wish I could have bought some of their beautiful tassels, unfortunately limited bag room just wouldn’t allow it.
The train offered beautiful scenery along the way. A great opportunity to fully relax and even order some snacks and beers if that’s what your after. Aguas Calientes is an interesting little place. Filled mostly with restaurants there isn’t too much to do. After we arrived we checked into the Eco Hostel Machu Picchu.
Unfortunately we weren’t able to complete the 4 day 3 night Salkantay treck as I got quite sick the night before. Salkantay Trekking were really great and organised a day trip to Machu Picchu with the rest of the group. They organised everything from the pick up, train and the accommodation. We caught up with our group we were meant to be with and we all went our for dinner. They were all really lovely, a couple from Dallas, Texas and another couple from Penanag, Malaysia. Lennie was our tour guide and he talked as through the plan for tomorrow. It was going to be an early start so we could catch the best of Machu Picchu.
Now what we didn’t know what that Mother’s Day is quite a celebration here in Aguas Calientes a concert opposite our room went from 3pm till 4:20am. James and I didn’t manage to get any sleep as the band was far from good. So at 4:20am we had to get ready for our day mission. We were definitely feeling tired so this wasn’t easy.
Top Tip:
Do your research on this small town and aviod going on any celebration day as you will get no sleep!
The line for the bus starts around 5:00am and we managed to a great spot making the second bus. We originally thought we were walking to Machu Picchu, but Lennie said that it’s better to get there feeling refreshed and enjoy the tour. The avid walkers looked exhausted at the top so thankgoodness for Lennie’s wise wisdom as I still wasn’t feeling 100% to begin with.
Machu Picchu
I was blown away by the impressive size of Machu Picchu. It really was incredible and our timing there was perfect. We were able to really enjoy the view without many there. Lennie gave us a very in-depth history lesson and it was interesting to know how they managed to build this city by hand!
We walked to the Inca bridge and the original paths were still in tack. By around 8 there are a lot of people there and we began our tour through the temples and original homes. There are cracks beginning to form in the infrastructure and Lennie said that in around 80-100 years this place may not exist. There are many who also say that they will need to close it at some stage to preserve this magical place. So if you’re thinking of going start planning!
Top Tip:
You only need a night in Aguas Calientes. So once you have vis the beau Machu Picchu then head back to cusco the same day.
After the full morning touring we headed back into town and were pleased to know there was not another concert. We didn’t have the best of luck in Aguas Calientes, not only was there the crazy concert but the farmers were striking so the trains back to Cusco were cancelled. So we had no choice but to stay were another night! We didn’t manage to find too many good food places, their menu pictures are quite deceiving! Packing snacks is essential.
The incredible Salkantay Trekking also organised all of our transport back to Cusco where we stayed one more final night in the Principae before our flight to Lima the next day.
100 Days of Travel 