Adios Peru

We have had a wonderful time in the country of Peru, and have met many great people, but it is now time for us to take our leave.  We fly early tomorrow morning back to Guayaquil, Ecuador, and then the next day to Panama.  We are looking forward to the sun and sand!

Hot, Tired, and Feeling Grubby!

We bussed it back to Agua Caliente after the fabulous trip to MP.  We had a couple of hours to spare before catching the train back to Ollantaytambo so we stopped for a bite to eat, rest, and re-energize. 

                                          These guys earn their supper!!

Machu Picchu

What can I say!!  You´ve seen the pictures, watched documentaries, read books, but nothing can quite compared to actually seeing this place with your own eyes!  It´s breathing taking, awe-inspiring, and absolutely fabulous.  But, why??  Why would anyone do this??  In this locale??  The Mayans were hidden away in jungles, and Ankor Wat was protected with its size, but on top of the Andes Mountains??  WOW!!  The weather was great. It was hot, and I wished I was dressed lighter, but better than rain. 

                                          Repairs.

Road to Machu Picchu

You can walk up to MP via stairs that will take about 90 minutes.  The young people do it, for either the challenge or the cost.  No walking for us, we bought a ticket, fairly cheap, 20 soles round trip for one, which is about 8 bucks.  The ride is a bit harrowing.  It´s a narrow dirt road except for the 11 cobblestoned hairpin corners(yes, I counted).  It´s a straight drop off the edge of the road, and I could barely look down at times. There have been a few landslides, and one  wasn´t cleared away, so they dropped all passengers off, and you had to climb a short stretch of steps to the next bus that continued onto MP.

A lot of young people hike the Inca Trail to MP.  You need a guide or porter and 4 days to get there, but I guess there are shorter versions of this trip depending on where you start.

Super Tramp..the Hostal Not the Band

We found a funky hostal called Supertramp. It was comfortable, warm and quiet. But, the breakfast sucked!!!  I could not eat it, scambled eggs that were burnt and salty! YUCK!!!  But I drank the coffee!

                                         Our room, 2 beds, feather duvets, clean bathroom

                                          Outside our room.

                                          Reception.

                                         Kitchen and dining.  I´m surprised breaky was so nasty.
                                         The food was suppose to be good here!

                                          This bug was on the outside of the window at our hostal.
                                          It was at least 5 inches long!!

Agua Caliente or Machu Picchu Town

The small town of Agua Caliente is the last stop before Machu Picchu.  It is a town for foot traffic only.  The food and drinks are expensive, and I think it´s residents totally depend on tourist traffic to earn a living.

Peru Rail

We hopped on the train...Peru Rail to head to Machu Picchu.  It´s about 1 1/2 hour ride, through breathtaking scenery.  The train meanders slowly through the mountain´s tunnels, and curves, following the river. It´s very relaxing and we thoroughly enjoyed it.  We were served drinks, sandwiches, and fruit.

                                          The waiting area.