Machu Picchu

Nestled high in the Andes Mountains of Peru, at 2500 meters it is certainly the most extraordinary ruin on the planet. How did the Incas build this incredible complex so high on the side of a cliff? Built in the 1400’s Machu Picchu is remarkably well preserved. Arriving early in the morning, it is shrouded in cloud, but as the sun rises and burns off the fog, a majestic vision unfolds. 200 buildings, terraced high on the side of the mountain surrounded by jungle, vegetation and clear blue skies.

The highlight is looking at the entire complex from an adjacent peak. Sitting on a ledge plunging into the abyss, I was a little worried about the children running around and hanging their feet over the side. But the breathtaking views quickly drew my focus back to the temples. Luckily no one fell over, and I could enjoy its beauty as Llama’s and El Paccas grazed in a step below.

We should have hired a guide for our journey throughout the complex and because we went to Peru on a whim, we didn’t have time to book a trek on the Inca trail. You have to book a year in advance if you are going at high season. I really didn’t feel that I missed too much, but I do think that it would have put it higher on our list if we actually hiked the Inca Trail to the ruins. But taking the train through the Andes and spending time in Aguas Calientas was certainly special in its own right.