MACHU PICCHU!

The main purpose for our trip to Peru was to visit the famous Inca Citadel of Machu Picchu. We had planned our entire trip around this UNESCO World Heritage Site and couldn't wait to check it off our travel bucket list. Even Juan, our Uber driver in Lima, seemed excited for us when we told him in broken Spanish that we were heading to the airport to go to Cusco. "Ah, Machu Picchu!!" he exclaimed. The locals we met in the Sacred Valley also responded with the same sense of excitement and pride.

On the day of our tour, we woke up early to catch our taxi to the train station and make the journey by train and then bus to the Citadel. When we made eye contact with the ruins, our reaction was similar to the time we saw the Colosseum in Rome. It was magical. And worth the long journey.

A few takeaways and photos below!

^^the intihuatana stone^^

Takeaways: 1) We wouldn't have survived the four day trek to MP along the Inca Trail.  2) The Incas were strong and in great shape. 3) The city isn't as old as we assumed. 4) Alpacas and llamas serve as the local groundskeepers. 5) The weather changes rapidly. 6) Those mountains are incredible.

Recommendations: 
1) Wear good hiking shoes and sunblock! 
2) Pack water and a raincoat. We were told to bring insect repellent but didn't use it.
3) Bathrooms are just outside the entrance and cost 1 Peruvian Sol. Carry a few coins with you.
4) Bring your passport. You need to show it with your bus and entrance tickets.
5) Get the novelty stamp in your passport at the office just past the entrance.
6) Climb the path up the Inca Trail for the best views.
7) Sign up for a guided tour. There is little information about the ruins posted on site.
8) Return to the ruins after lunch and explore on your own (the ticket allows multiple same-day entrances). There are less tourists in the afternoon.