Macchu Picchu

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25,26,27,28 September 2013 Cusco and Machu Pichu

After gleaning lots of information from other cyclists we decided against embarking on an expensive trek into Machu Pichu on the Inca Trail because although beautiful it is also extremely busy. Instead we opted for the cheaper package which involved car journeys, hikes, a bus and a train journey. Yet another strike dictated that we left the hotel at 2 am instead of 8 am. This time the strike worked in our favour because it meant we had more time in the day to look around. We met up with a lovely French couple Julian and Marlene who were wonderful company and an excellent source of information. We started the hike at 4.30 am in order to arrive at the gates for 6 am and it was magical to see the sun come up over this amazing place. Due to the strike it was very quiet and there were only 2 other people apart from us on Machu Pichu mountain and the sight itself seemed deserted until the train arrived at 10.00 and hordes of people arrived. After a scary journey back with a 3000 meter ascent (boy was I glad I wasn't cycling that one!) through thick clouds we went out for an absolute gourmet five star meal on the advise of Julian. Probably the best and poshest meal we've ever had for a pub meal price . Must repeat.

 Today we struggle walking down stairs. Our legs are aching after the more than 1000 meter ascent on what seemed like thousands of steps. Hope our legs will be fine for cycling again tomorrow?

One kilometre up on steps