The group’s excitement grew as we winded down the penultimate day of our hike. We were tired, but Machu Picchu was in our sights.
The final camp location was at the back entrance to the Machu Picchu park grounds, accessible only to Inca Trail hikers. Because all hikers stopped here, camp was quite busy and space was limited.
The final dinner on the trail was one to remember. Our chef prepared an incredible “last” meal – piping hot soup, fresh vegetables and rice, fresh biscuits filled with mushrooms, cheese and meat, a decadent fruit cake that was adorned with fresh mint, kumquats, strawberries and kiwi, and an eggplant carved in the shape of a condor. It was insanely impressive; so much so that we stood and applauded our chef at the end.
After dinner, we strategized the final portion of our hike to Machu Picchu. The group resolved to be first in the park so that we could experience Machu Picchu with as few people as possible (better for pictures!). Our knowledgeable guide Ronaldo advised us that we would have to arrive at 3AM in order to be at the front of the line when the gates opened 2 hours later at 5AM. We finished our tea and went back to our tents to pack.
As we slept, storms rolled through the valley and battered our tents. Though we were well-protected, the rain and clouds would threaten our views of Machu Picchu in the morning.
3AM came quickly. Weary-eyed, we packed our tents for the final time and bid farewell to our crew. We arrived at the gates just in time to be first in line.
At 5AM, the park gates swung open and we were off to the races. Although it was dark, raining, and we were flanked by sheer cliffs with 100+ ft drops, our headlights guided the way and we managed to keep a brisk pace. We arrived at the Sun Gate, the outer edge of Machu Picchu, just as the sun was rising.
Sweaty and tired, we queued up for a family photo as the sun lifted above the hills of Machu Picchu. It was a moment our group won’t soon forget. We admired the mist above the valley and began our descent into the formal park, prepared to throw a sweaty elbow at any and all day-visitors who blocked our views. After all, we’d earned them.
We stood and admired the crisp green grasses and dramatic peaks that make up the World Wonder. The landscape is cared for naturally, by locals and llamas who maintain the iconic man-made site. We walked the grounds, captured our memories in our minds and on our cameras. After taking in the scenic surroundings, we told Ronaldo it was time to reach the ultimate summit, Wayna Picchu.
Ronaldo promised that it would be the final – and most terrifying – climb of our trip. He wished us well, reminded us that the “selfies” were NOT worth the risk, and told us he’d see us back in town for lunch.
We checked in at the Wayna Picchu desk as visitors 222-226 and began our climb. A steep trek would be putting it mildly, particularly for those who fear heights. It was truly the most terrifying climb of our lives as we continued to pull our bodies higher and higher, one foot in front of the other, as we pushed ourselves further into the mountain.
As we clung to the edge of the cliff for dear life, the rock gave way to a landing that allowed you to overlook all of Machu Picchu. It was breathtaking. We made the final climb to a rock that lifted us into the clouds – with room for just 5 adults to sit side-by-side. We wiped the sweat from our brows, licked the salt from our lips and gave one another a big group hug. The glory of the summit was worth it, and we had made it at last!
Back in town (Ollantaytambo), we sipped beers and recounted the day which had started at 3AM! We feasted with Ronaldo and enjoyed many of the Peruvian delicacies he had told us so much about along the trail, including the Guinea Pig (sorry pet people).
With bellies full and hearts ever-so happy, we saddled our massive packs on our back and headed for Cusco, where we would end the night at (wait for it) Paddy’s Irish Pub, trading stories and preparing for the journey to Peru’s capital.
Alpaca Expeditions (aka green machine) for the win!
~Two for Takeoff
