Day 7: Machu Picchu Citadel

Itinerary

5:00 AM Departure to catch Sunrise over Machu Picchu, Tour of the Citadel [Finished around 9:30 AM], Lunch at Inkaterra at @ 1:30 PM, Dinner & Evening Ride on Luxury Belmond Hiram Bingham Train to Cusco, Check-back-in to Hotel Monasterio in Cusco

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Journal Entry ~ Amanda Uhl

Mucho Wow at Machu Picchu

We awoke early and excited for our morning at Machu Picchu! After a quick, light breakfast and surrendering our hotel keys, we took a brisk walk down the narrow streets to the bus station.

The winding road up the mountain was densely forested, but with each switchback we gained a better view of the sweeping tropical landscape. And then with tickets and passports in hand we entered the citadel, well before the crowds, in hopes of catching the sunrise across the sacred grounds

Our beloved guides, Javi and Yanelit, showed us the perfect spot to view the spreading sunlight at the UNESCO world heritage site. The visit coincided with the most celebrated day of the Incan calendar on the winter solstice celebrated on June 21, marking the rebirth of the sun and the start of a new agricultural cycle. Despite being a day early, we were able to watch as the sun slowly crept over the historic ruins to perfectly align and illuminate the Temple of the Sun. It was a feast for the eyes and all we could say was, ‘Mucho Wow!’

We toured the giant walls, terraces, and ramps through midday in equal parts mystified by the ingenuity of the urban center of the Inkan Empire and the breathtaking beauty of the surrounding landscape. Exiting the park, Melissa sneakily led us past the line of buses to the Belmond Sanctuary Lodge for a surprise cabana toast with champagne and snacks. It was a luxurious way to cap off our walking tour, swap photos and explore the gorgeous orchid garden trail. We sadly also parted ways with Yanelit and had a time of gratitude for her invaluable help on the trail, joyful spirit, and the gift of her new friendship.

After a refreshing time we headed back down to Aguas Calientes for a delicious lunch beside the train rails overlooking the Urubamba River. Later we walked around town to grab coffees, strolling around the market for shopping, and lingering at booths admiring the local handmade crafts and artisanal goods.

Before catching our ride back to Cusco on the famed Hiriam Bingham Train, we had another tearful goodbye to Javi, our fearless trek leader. Along the trail he graciously answered our repetitive questions, warmly shared his culture, and taught us about the land all while safely guiding our very chatty and occasionally-behind-schedule troupe. What a gift beyond measure to have had him as our guide!

Then to the Hiram Bingham train for dinner and dancing and unlimited Pisco Sours. Ask whomever you love that was on the trip about the dance car. Or the time we were scolded for dancing on the furniture in said dance car. Or the proper way to eat shared bar olives with or without a toothpick. Or their favorite song the band played. We laughed hard and danced without a care and it was all a joy.

Then back to the Belmond Hotel Monasterio for more hotel key exchanges and a final cozy sleep before heading home!

-Amanda Uhl