There are three circuits around Machu Picchu, and ten routes within the three circuits. As far as I know, we followed Panoramic Circuit One and climbed the upper terrace route 1-B. Upon zooming in with my camera I discovered something amazing: one of the circuits or routes takes adventurous tourists all the way to the top of the peak looming over the archaeological site, and there are terraces adhered to the pointy peak, like fish scales. Who knew? Not me. I wish I had the stamina for that feat. It was all I could do to rise at 4 am, travel by car, train and bus to reach the site, climb hundreds of steps, and gaze at the marvel of Machu Picchu without my legs dissolving into mushy noodles. But my legs weren’t really the problem, just me and my low level of fuel. Even so, I did it! Follow my feet…
By the time we passed this sign, we’d reached the top of the irregular and steep staircase system that zigzagged up the mountain. Machu Picchu sits at a relatively low elevation (compared to most other mountainous regions), of 8,000 feet. Farming terraces curl in the back ground. In the 15th century, 750 souls from diverse backgrounds, along with animals like llamas and alpacas, lived at the site. Oh, and human sacrifice was rare at Machu Picchu!
Orchids.
She’s dressed for photography success!
This is a grainy, washed out close up of the top of the peak that looms over the city below. Do you see the terraces and the people? Now go back to my first photo…Mosaic Monday.
Do you see the llama or alpaca?
Here lies rain soaked and weary travelers leaving the site – just like us. The clouds and mist made for surreal and spooky photos, however. We didn’t get to wander amongst the ruins because that was a different route.
Wow! The river that snakes below Machu Picchu drains into the Amazon. And by the time we arrived back at our hotel in Pisac at 11 pm, we were drained as well. Take my advice and stay in Aguas Calientes, the charming town below the site, and go into Machu Picchu twice.
No, this isn’t the Temple of the Moon, located in a cave on the backside of Machu Picchu, it’s my book in Ventanas Caves in Costa Rica!
“Chorus of Crows blends eerie horror with emotional family drama in a way that kept me intrigued from start to finish.” ~ Karen
