August 28, 2024
Team photo from Machu Picchu looking towards Waynapicchu (Tyler Nachand)
The view of Machu Picchu and the Inca Trail route from summit of Waynapicchu (Eric Simonson)
Tyler Nachand reports the team made a smooth return to Cusco yesterday, by train and road, and today everyone is departing. “After touring Cusco and the Sacred Valley, climbing the endless stairs up to Dead Woman’s pass, crossing into multiple valleys where the ecosystem changed from dry, cactus filled slopes to high altitude rain forest, we finally arrived to Intipunku, the sun gate entrance to Machu Picchu. We enjoyed 2 visits to this breathtaking site where we took lots of pictures of the area and explored agriculture terraces, store houses, the temple of the Sun, royal residencies and the main event terraces that were once used for social gatherings. Along the way we learned from our local guide about the differences in stonework styles and architectural intricacies. Today we went back up to reach the summit of Waynapicchu for a majestic view of the entire area. We then made our way back down to Aguas Calientes for lunch and then caught our train back to Ollantaytambo. We are back in Cusco now and soon to begin our travels back home. Another inspiring trip in the books! “