Wild Junket » Peru

Natural Wonders of Peru: From Forests to Canyons

Guest Blogger — Fri, 20 Jan 2012 18:15:50 +0000

This is a sponsored guest post by Virgin Holidays.

Peru is home to the famed monuments of Machu Picchu and to the vibrant capital city of Lima. Both of these places are beautiful and intriguing in their own right, but it is the breathtaking beauty of Peru’s natural wonders that are the true treasures of this magnificent country.

Amazon Rainforest

In Peru, the Amazon Forest is flanked by the Andes Mountains on the east and the Pacific Ocean on the west. The resulting convergence of a diverse and varied ecosystem, unmatched anywhere else in the world. Start your journey in either Iquitos or Puerto Maldonado. A three hour boat trip, an adventure on its own, brings you to an isolated jungle lodge on the banks of the Tambopata River. There is no describing the visceral excitement of sleeping in an open hut as howler monkeys, hyacinth macaws and jaguars all vie for your attention through a cacophony of sounds.

Colca Canyon

Deeper than the Grand Canyon and blessed with spectacular scenery, the Colca Canyon should not be missed. The gateway to his natural wonder is the city of Arequipa, Peru’s second largest. A variety of overnight camping tours are available but be warned, the trek is physically demanding and not for the faint of heart. The rewards are great, however, as the region is blessed with a multitude of flora and fauna, includin the rare Andean Condor, found only in this part of the world. A typical hike will pas through mountain, volcano and rainforest ecosystems. There is even a stop at a local village that has natural hot springs to heal your aching muscles.

Lake Titicaca

As the highest commercially navigable lake in the world, Lake Titicaca is a sight to behold on its own. The lake is also famous for its floating reed islands, home to the Uros people. Titicaca is also blessed with a wide variety of flora and fauna endemic to this region. Lake Titicaca is almost only accessible by bus from Cuzco or Arequion. Once there, you can easily book day trips to the reed islands of the Uros or to Amantani, an island in the middle of the lake and home to a tribe of native Quechua speakers.

Cordillera Blanca

The Cordillera Blanca offers some of the most magnificent and pristine views of the Andes Mountains. Monumental glaciers and Huascaran, the highest mountain in Peru and are some of the sights to behold. Huascaran, at 6700 metres, offers experienced climbers a true mountaineering experience. Access to this mountainous wonderland is through the town of Huaraz located some 429 kilometres north of Lima. It take some time to reach this snow-capped paradise but the it is well worth the effort.

Ballestas Islands

If sea creatures are your thing, then look no further than the “Galapagos Islands of Peru,” the Ballestas Islands. Pelicans, terns, boobies and cormourants are just a few of the avian wildlife that inhabit this unspoilt islands. Daytrips are available from the town of Paracas. Don’t miss the abundant sealife of sea lions, turtles, dolphins and whales as you make the crossing to the islands. Completely different but equally compelling, a trip to the Ballestas Islands rivals the experience of the rainforest.

Book amazing holiday tours in Peru and find fantastic deals on escorted holidays.

Daily Travel Snapshot: Cusco, Peru

Nellie Huang — Tue, 23 Aug 2011 01:30:10 +0000

Girls in colorful dresses in Cusco, Peru.

Daily Travel Snapshot: Lima, Peru

Nellie Huang — Sun, 31 Jul 2011 01:30:10 +0000

The shimmering night lights of Lima, Peru.

Hiking the Inca Trail in Peru: A Quick Guide

Nellie Huang — Tue, 08 Feb 2011 21:00:00 +0000

It’s been almost a year since our six-month sojourn through South America – one of the most memorable epic journeys we’ve done so far. We saw the impressive Iguazu Falls in Argentina, got to know the Uros tribe living on Lake Titicaca, watched wildlife on the Galapagos Islands and went jungle-trekking in the Amazon. South America promised tons of adventure, thrills and raw beauty and it delivered. Today our guest post by Andrew Parker brings us back to beautiful Peru, and tells us the wonders of hiking the Inca Trail.

The Inca road system was the most extensive pre-Colombian road system covering about 22,530 kilometers of road starting from Quito in Ecuador to Santiago, Chile in the south. Today the most popular Peru holidays bring you through the most famous section of the road system: the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu.

Active travelers come from all over the world to get a taste of the most famous trek in South America, often cited as one of the top five treks in the world. Whether you’re looking for activity holidays or leisure culture tours, the Inca Trail caters to travelers of all types. At just twenty-five miles long, it definitely caters to families that have a reasonable amount of fitness. Those seeking something less strenuous can opt for the newly-introduced two-day trail.

Flickr photo by Bluelemur

Along the Inca Trail, the landscape is flanked by stunning mountains, forest and jungle, all topped with Machu Picchu, the Lost City of the Incas. Macchu Picchu is a jumble of ruins and tunnels from one of the earliest civilizations in history. It remains an enigmatic magnet that draws many to spend holidays in Peru each year.

The Inca Trail is situated high up in the Peruvian Andes and the city of Cusco is the starting point for treks to Machu Picchu. The twenty-five mile trek takes four days and the most challenging part for most will be the acclimatization required due to the altitude. The maximum altitude is 4200 metres at ‘Dead Woman’s Pass’ on day two of the trek. Those who like more challenging activity holidays can undertake the seven-day Inca trek via a snow topped mountain, Salkantay.

Dead Woman’s Pass – Flickr photo by auldhippo

High season is between June and August so if you are taking Peru holidays during this time make sure to book well in advance. The weather in Peru is at its best between May and September.

If you prefer you can hire porters to take your back packs up the trail and it is worth noting that you cannot do the trail independently, you must have a guide and travel with an officially recognized tour group.

The Inca Trail is a World Heritage site, planted with plenty of cultural remnants and historical ruins along the way. There is always something to discover along the trail: from exotic animal and plant life to gorgeous scenic views.

Flickr photo by sum1akaJ

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Off the Beaten Trail: 6 Unconventional Treks

Nellie Huang — Thu, 15 Jul 2010 16:33:21 +0000

Since I last wrote about 7 of the Best Trekking Destinations in the world, I’ve had many more trekking suggestions from readers and expert trekkers/climbers. Several of these treks are extremely challenging and clearly off the beaten path. Since part of the thrills of adventure travel comes from seeking unexplored corners of the earth, these treks definitely fulfill what many adventure-seekers crave for. Here are some of the best, as suggested by readers and friends.

1. Atlas Mountains Trek, Morocco

Unlike most parts of Morocco, the Atlas Mountains are relatively unexplored. With perfect weather year-round, the High Atlas mountains are studded with summits climbing as high as 13,000 feet. The advanced hiker will enjoy the technical climb, while average hikers will also find the Atlas Mountains trek an excellent experience without facing much difficulty.

Photo by Tom Kulbowski

2. Jhomolhari Trek, Bhutan

What sets Bhutan apart from the others is that you’re literally trekking in wilderness. Trekking trails in Bhutan lead through few human settlements in remote and tiny villages, pristine old growth forests and gleaming unclimbed peaks. This particular trek crosses mountain passes, high altitude lakes, and yak herds. As a safe yet largely unexplored country, Bhutan is as destination ideal for solo holidays.

Photo by jmhullot

3. Dragon’s Back, Hong Kong

Towering over Hong Kong’s explosive urban landscapes are imposing mountains and hidden treks worth exploring. One of the city’s finest and most surprising rambles is the Dragon’s Back, a trail that cuts through bamboos and scrubby slopes. It’s particularly popular among paragliders who launch themselves off from here. Other trails worth visiting are the Maclehose Trail, running around Ma On Shan, and Tai Mo Shan Trail that snakes through waterfalls and rugged terrains.

Photo by lipjin

4. Via Ferrata in the Dolomites, Italy

Via Ferrata – meaning ‘iron road’ – is a mountain road equipped with fix cables, ladders and bridges. It’s not for the faint-hearted, but certain parts of the climb can be done without any technical gear. The Dolomites in Italy is the birthplace of Via Ferrata, so expect world-class climbing here. It is also an exceptionally beautiful mountain range, with gentle valleys flanked by isolated pockets of soaring spires and jagged ridges.

Photo by bugmonkey

5. McCarthy Trek, Alaska

Alaska is a land of wilderness beauty, so expect any hike to be an awe-inspiring one. This trek brings you ice-climbing through the Root Glacier in the day, exploring crevasses, moulins, melt streams and canyons. Camp is set up on the top of the lateral moraine of the Root with stunning sunsets and inspiring views of the entire valley. Expect to spot bears as well. So if you’ve got the fleece, crampons and camping gear ready, time for some real hiking!

Photo by Philip Morton

6.Alpamayo Circuit in the Cordillera Blanca, Peru

Instead of the popular treks in neighboring Chile and Argentina, why not head out to the Cordillera Blanca for some out-of-the-ordinary hikes. As getting in and out of the white mountains are extremely challenging, you won’t see many hikers here. Most people set off for this trek from either Huaraz or Caraz, both excellent mountain town jumping off points. But Alpamayo can be dangerous due to avalanches, do the Santa Cruz trek instead if you’re not prepared.

Photo by Tomer Arazy

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Top 7 Destinations for Photography Enthusiasts

Nellie Huang — Thu, 01 Jul 2010 10:53:38 +0000

As a photography enthusiast myself, capturing the beauty of a place is essential during my travels, especially if I have a story to go with it. Of all the striking travel destinations in the world, those ideal for photography often stand out for the natural blend of colors, nature and sunlight. Based on my previous travels and some hearsay, these are some of my personal favorite spots to take the perfect picture.

1. China

The poetic setting of karsts-studded Guilin, languid waters of Yangshuo River and the phenomenal Great Wall in Beijing – there are literally picture-perfect spots in every corner of China. This country is especially favored by landscape photographers, owing to the bountiful rivers, mountains and valleys littered throughout. China holiday tours itineraries are often packed with these aesthetically stunning sites, you’ll be spoilt for choice.

Flickr photo by Jack French Flickr photo by Blazej Mrozinski

2. Peru

Some of our best shots were taken in Peru. It’s a heaven for photographers, whether you specialize in landscapes or human portraits. One group of people I particularly enjoyed photographing was the Uros tribe who lives on Lake Titicaca. Clad in brightly-colored traditional costumes, with dark silky hair and weathered faces, their ingenuity shines through in the photos. Of course, the emerald green terraces of Machu Picchu make powerful shots, especially when the afternoon sun rises.

3. Morocco

Morocco has that special charm that draws you in to a world of chaos, raucous noises and outrageous aroma. Another personal favorite, the buzzing Djemma el Fna square in Marrakesh is perfect for the hedonistic photographer, who likes to capture secret moments. Morocco has got so much to offer – from the Atlas Mountains to the sprawling Sahara Desert. With such diversity, your photos will also flicker from one extreme end to the other.

4. Laos

Of all of IndoChina, Laos is the only place I’ve never been and I’d always wanted to visit. The combination of bright orange robes that monks adorn, with the golden shimmering temples as the backdrop, Luang Prabang sets the scene for some challenging photography. Here, you can play with colors and also capture the faith present. Floating villages along the Mekong River are also intriguing objects to feature. It’s a good idea to include Laos, Cambodia and Vietnam in your next IndoChina tours.

Flickr photo by whl travel

Flickr photo by jmhullot

5. The Galapagos Islands

Undoubtedly the best place in the world to photograph wildlife, the Galapagos Islands are nature’s masterpiece. Endemic animals roam freely, you can easily bump into a lazy sealion lounging on the beach, or a giant yellow land lizard hiding under the shade of a cactus, and even swim with hammerhead sharks. The best part is that due to the long isolation from human beings, these animals are not afraid of humans and tend to get close and sniff around.

6. The Himalayas

Home to the world’s highest peaks, the Himalayas range separates the Indian subcontinent from the Tibetan Plateau. For the hardcore landscape photographers, the endless clear skies and white snow-peaked mountains make for some phenomenal shots. Intriguing architecture and smiley locals in Tibetan villages are most frequently photographed. This is one place I’ve been longing to go, will be visiting Ladakh, the Indian Himalayas next month, will be back with more photos!

Flickr photo by Magda & Maciek

Flickr photo by artisrams

7. Tanzania

Personally, for great portrait shots, Africa is the place to go. In Tanzania, people are friendly and children love to hang around. When I was volunteering in Tanzania, I would take pictures of my students or children on the road. When I showed them the picture, they would always giggle or tease each other – honestly, those were some of my best memories. Get deeper into the heart of Tanzania, and you’ll find yourself capturing the essence of its people. Of course, for wildlife buffs and landscape photographers, there are endless choices – Ngorongoro Crater, Serengeti National Park and Lake Manyara.

*All the photos that are not credited were taken by myself and Alberto Molero, they cannot be used without my permission.

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10 Unique Transport Modes Around the World

Nellie Huang — Thu, 25 Feb 2010 13:14:59 +0000

Sailing on an ancient junk boat in Vietnam, riding a rickshaw in Japan or seeing the pyramids on camels – there are thousands of strange and oddly intriguing forms of transportation around the world. Inspired by my hero Charley Boorman who travelled from Ireland to Sydney using 112 modes of transport on TV series ‘By Any Means’, I’m piecing a post together on the 10 most unique transportation means.

1. Bamboo Train, Cambodia

Between Battambang and Cambodia’s capital, Phnom Penh, you’ll find this interesting train, cobbled together with a wooden frame, bamboo planking, an upright engine and reused military tank wheels. As basic it looks, it can haul passengers and cargo from one city to the next. Known as ‘norry’ in Khmer, it uses the spur lines, which means when a real train comes puffing, get ready to jump off your ride!

Photo by el Floz

2. Tuktuk, India

These motorized three-wheelers are used all over Asia – originally from Thailand, they then spread to Laos, Cambodia, Pakistan and India. Although Bangkok is the pioneer in the tuktuk industry, it’s India where traffic-swerving drivers and chaotic road conditions make it a thrilling ride. Whether you are in Bangalore or New Delhi, hop on for some fun. A tuktuk can usually accommodation two persons and a suitcase. It’s the best way to get from the city to most India hotels.

Photo by nakwoodford

3. Junk Boat, Hongkong

Along Hongkong’s Victoria Harbour, the nation’s signature junk boats float against a backdrop of skyscraping offices and Hong Kong hotels. These Chinese sailboats date from ancient times, specifically the Han Dynasty. Today, they are converted into sunset boats and booze cruises for tourists and locals seeking a breathe of fresh air. If you’re on holidays in Asia, don’t miss out this traditional junk ride.

Photo by avlxyz

4. Elephant Trekking, Thailand

Before Phuket was developed into a tourist hub, wild elephants used to roam its dense forests and rolling hills. Today, their numbers are dwindling. Instead of lounging by the beach or staying in Phuket hotels all day, travelers can explore the area inland on elephant tours.

These elephant trekking tours offer a much-needed lift to the tourism industry, and generate the funds to assure the survival of thousands of elephants in a dignified manner. Phuket holidays can encompass fun under the sun and unconventional way of seeing Asia.

5. Zorb, New Zealand

The zorb is the sport of rolling down a hill inside a giant inflatable ball, cushioned by a thick layer of air. New Zealand first brought us bungee-jumping, white-water raftin, skydiving and now this! There’s a range of rides to choose from – from wet to dry, individual to multi-person or zigzag rides. As the kiwis call it, globe riding sure is an interesting way to find your way round New Zealand.

6. Dog Sleds, Norway

There aren’t many places where you can do this. In Northern Norway, close to the Arctic Circle, you can embark on dog-sledding trips that bring you through gorgeous winter landscapes. Every participant will lead your own team of four or six dogs, and swish across scenic routes. Many trips are organized in the Saltfjellet – Svartisen national park and Jotunheimen National Park, where overnight stays in wooden lodges can be included.

Photo by De Kleine

7. Totora Boat, Peru

On the floating islands of Lake Titicaca, the Uros tribes weave their homes and transportation with reeds – or totora in their tribal language – found in the lake. Built to resemble the shape of a dragon, it is said that the boats were used to ward off evil in ancient Inca times. These incredibly light but resistant boats sail out swiftly on the calm lake, making transport for the locals easy and convenient.

8. Chicken Bus, Guatemala

Guatemala’s public buses are nicknamed the ‘chicken buses’ for the hectic and tight conditions where passengers are crammed into these old U.S. school buses alongside chicken and goats. For the intrepid travelers seeking a little adventure, it’s quite an interesting way to get under the skin of the country. Some chicken buses are decked out in neon signs or voodoo posters, but all pose the same thrill. Be warned – petty crimes have been reported on these buses.

9. Felucca, Egypt

These traditional Egyptian sailboats have remained, over the centuries, the primary transportation of the Nile River in Egypt. Its ancient form still graces the river as it has done since the time of the Pharaohs.

These days, both locals and foreigners enjoy a relaxing ride on the felucca, basking under the sun or catching the sunset. Travelers can also take a multi-day felucca ride from Luxor to Aswan and back.

10. Camel back, Jordan

Riding on a camelback through the red-rose deserts of Wadi Rum is one of the highlights of Jordan. Since ancient times, camels have always been the one of the most useful transport tools in the Jordanian history. Travelers can go on a 3-day camel safari trip that includes camping with Bedouins and exploring archaeological sites.

There are many more quirky modes of transport that I’ve missed in this piece, stay tuned for more next week. Meanwhile, share with us your experience below: Have you tried any of these transportations? Are there any other transport mode that you’ve been on?

Top 6 Destinations for Cultural Immersion

Nellie Huang — Wed, 24 Feb 2010 18:06:05 +0000

There are so many ways to travel. Whether you’re on a culinary tour around Italy, or ice-climbing in Patagonia, different travelers have their own style of travelling. A cultural immersion often allows you to delve deeper into the soul of a country than a weekend holidaymaker usually would. Instead of standard sight-seeing, visitors would be meeting tribes or natives, staying with a host family and engaging in local practices. I’ve rounded up the following destinations, perfect for culture vultures to get under a country’s skin.

1. India: Meditate in an Ashram

This spiritual land of yoga and holy ashrams definitely has charisma and plenty of culture within. Meditate in a holistic center, or dig up history at Taj Mahal or revel in the hippie’s’ playground in Goa: it’s a country packed with stories to tell and lessons to learn. Travelers could volunteer at a shelter in Mumbai, teach English in Bangalore or journey on a houseboat in Kerala – the immersion choices are endless here.

Photo by Nataraj Metz

2. China: Sleep in a Monastery

A land of spectacular natural landscapes, majestic temples, millennium-old traditions, China has so much character beneath its facade. Besides getting awed by its world-famous Tiananmen Square, Great Wall and terracotta soldiers, you can sit by the park and watch the senior citizens do tai-chi or meditate at a mountain-top monastery. More travelers are opting for China escorted tours to learn about the country – from its language to its food and people.

3. Peru: Visit Indigenous Tribes

From the floating villages of Lake Titicaca to the indigenous tribes in the Andes Mountains, it is the people of Peru that give the country its strong identity.Their characteristic villages and unique way of life are the biggest draw for travelers interested in digging deeper. Its cultural capital Cuzco makes an excellent base for travelers to explore the surrounding archaeological sites, including Macchu Picchu, and also get to taste local foods, visit markets and farms.

4. Argentina: Learn tango

Old-style European architecture, classic steakhouses, intense tango dancers, gaucho cowboys. The country is literally bursting with passion and burning with a culture so rich and vibrant. These days, students flock to Buenos Aires to learn Spanish, taking advantage of the peso. In between classes, they can learn to tango or visit the antique shops of San Telmo. Beyond the capital, you can bike between bodegas in Mendoza, watch folkloric dancing in Salta, or explore the stunning Iguazu Falls and breathtaking glaciers in Patagonia.

5. Spain: Cook a Paella

Angst-filled flamenco dancers tap their feet into the night, night-prowlers hop from one tapas bar to the next, feeding on savory eats like paella and jamon. Spain is loud, feisty and vigorous – a country with a raging personality waiting for you to uncover and explore inside out. Hordes of students come here on study-abroad-programs to learn the language, but most return with a new outlook in life. Having a reputation for being vivadores (people who live life to the fullest), the Spaniards can influence you more than you’ll imagine.

6. Vietnam: Cruise the Mekong River

The pearl of Indochina has a disturbing history and tragic past; but its scenic countryside, primitive tribes and performing arts often shrouds it in an optimistic glow. Besides visiting war monuments in Ho Chi Minh city, cultural enthusiasts can take a boat to see the communities of the Mekong River, listen to Vietnamese opera, sleep on a junk boat in Halong Bay or stay in the hill tribe village of Mai Chau. Tours to Indochina often entail all aspects of travel – adventurous activities to cultural visits and experiences.

*Photos not credited are shot by myself and Alberto Molero.

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Traveling In South America: A Quick Guide

Nellie Huang — Wed, 21 Oct 2009 11:59:07 +0000

Almost four months have passed since we started traversing the roads of South America, starting from Buenos Aires, Argentina all the way to Quito, Ecuador. In that short period of time, we went whitewater rafting, came face-to-face with modern day dinosaurs, raced up Macchu Picchu and almost froze to death in the Uyuni Salt Flats. The adventures we’d had exceeded our imaginations. South America is one hell of a continent with diverse landscapes and untouched humanity.

Here’s a quick look back at the past few months. For those who are finding their way around, here’s our approximate route and trip details.

Travelling by Land

In South America,the cheapest and easiest way to get around is by land transport, be it crossing the border or traversing a mountain. Flights are outrageously expensive in Latin America. Argentinean regional buses put European transport to shame – imagine airplane-style business class seats but moving on wheels! To save transportation costs in Argentina, we purchased the South Pass ($160 for 14days of unlimited national bus rides). There are options to extend it to neighboring countries as well.

Bus travel in Bolivia is a whole different world, roads are unpaved and buses are definitely of a lower standard. Still, it’s an interesting way to see the country. Expect to pay $1 for a 3-hour ride. Tickets need not be booked in advance. In Peru, buses are cheap and good, check out Cruz del Sur, a bus company that covers major routes. Getting transportation to Macchu Picchu can be tricky, check my post for details.

The only time we flew in South America was from mainland Ecuador to the Galapagos Islands. The short 1hr flight cost us $117.90 each way on TAME. Other than that, buses in Ecuador are also comfortable and cheap, especially the buses that go from Guayaquil along Ruta del Sol to Montañitas.

Budget

In our three months through South America, we spent approximately $6,000 each. That’s not to forget we are still heading to Central America after this. We’ve kept our expenditure to a minimum, staying in basic hostels, eating at local eatery and avoiding tourist traps. The main things we spent on were adventure tours into isolated places that were unreachable on our own (Uyuni salt flats, Macchu Picchu and Amazon Rainforest). You could easily cut your budget down by couchsurfing, which I personally enjoy a lot but as a couple, we chose to stay in hostels.

Crossing Frontiers

Most crossings are relatively quick and easy and don’t require any fee. You can always exchange currency right after the customs, and rates are fairly good. The only crossing we got stuck at was Argentina-Bolivia frontier at La Quica, where hordes of people cross the border on a daily basis. Other than that, the Bolivia-Peru crossing at Copacabana was easy enough on a bus we booked from La Paz. From Peru to Ecuador, we took a CIFA night bus that took us straight from Mancora to Guayaquil, fast and easy.

Highlights

I personally will never forget coming face-to-face with the uninhibiting animals of the Galapagos Islands, how sea lions were always part of the picture-perfect backdrop. The colorful Uros tribes of Lake Titicaca in Peru came in a close second, as we visited their floating homes and soaked in the open skies and extensive lake. Another highlight would be getting all wet under the massive Iguazu Falls – almost like an Indiana Jones adventure. Not to forget, trekking through the dense Amazon Rainforest – priceless.

What We’ve Missed

From the map, you can see that we really haven’t covered much of South America, and we’d missed out entire countries like Chile, Brazil, Venezuela and Columbia. We definitely hope to make it there in the near future, hoping to dedicate a month to each of these countries.

What’s Next?

We’re moving on to Central America next, first heading to Guatemala from Ecuador to attend a travel writing course organized by V!VA Travel Guide. Then we’ll be making our way around Guatemala before heading to Belize and finally Mexico. You’ll be hearing from us soon!

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Photoblog: Symbol of Peru – Macchu Picchu

Nellie Huang — Thu, 01 Oct 2009 12:53:30 +0000

A symbol of Peru, there is something about Macchu Picchu that makes everyone so drawn to it. A sense of mystery, a secret location in the midst of steep mountains, or its Inca origins – it remains an enigmatic magnet that attracts many to Peru each year.

Travelling overland from Bolivia to Peru, the landscape changed drastically and so did the air. Green pastures surround us at Macchu Picchu, contrasting with the bright multi-hued traditional costumes of the locals. Llamas graze the land, swaying their brown bosoms in the historical ruins.

How to get to Macchu Picchu

To get to Macchu Picchu, we chose to book a private bus trip (US$80 including 1 night’s stay) in Cuzco. There are no roads that lead to the nearest city, Aguascalientes, where most travelers are based at. The bus actually brings you through winding and unpaved mountain roads, leaving you at Hidroelectrico to catch the train to Aguascalientes. The bus trip itself was quite a funny adventure, with many passengers throwing up as we hit the winding roads.

Alternatively, the more popular option is to catch a train direct to Aguascalientes from Ollantaytambo, just 2 hours from Cuzco. It’s quite an attractive little town where few backpackers also choose to spend the night at. From here, it’s a costly but short train ride to Aguascalientes.

Our adventures

Waking up at 3a.m. like every other traveler, we were racing up to the peak to see the ruins by 4.30a.m. The entrance to Macchu Picchu opens at 5a.m., but everyone is eager to get the first peek. It was a mad dash as everyone raced through the ruins to get into the Wayna Picchu line. Many talk about the panoramic view atop Wayna Picchu, the taller mountain standing next to Macchu Picchu. Only a certain number of tickets are given out for the 10am climb, so many backpackers race to grab the tickets. Absurd as it sounds, it was almost like the Amazing Race, except you didn’t get to win $1million.

What amazes me about Macchu Picchu is its location on the peak of a mountain. Walking through the ruins involves lots of climbing steep slopes. The entire area sprawls across the mountaintop, but the area can be rather narrow. From the edges, take a look down and you can see the foot of the mountain in the far distance. A fall would definitely be fatal.

We found llamas wandering around the foot of the ruins, and it was quite an experience mingling with them and just getting to see these animals upclose and personal.

A curious vicuna posing for a picture.

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