Majestic Machu Picchu

Magnificent, spectacular, extraordinary, phenomenal... no words can even begin to describe the splendor of Machu Picchu. It was by far the most wonderful place I have ever been.

Early yesterday morning, we took the train from Ollantaytamba to Aguas Calientes. When the train arrived, we got on a bus and went up a steep switchback road overlooking the beautiful Urubamba River. The road climbed up to the entrance of the park. It was foggy and very mystical looking; like walking into Jurassic Park. We started up a steep trail through the jungle which led to one of many overlooks to the Inca ruins. The ruins were so pristine and perfect; absolutely awe-insiring!  To make the scenery even more incredible, llamas walked around us, posing just perfectly to be in the picture as the fog started to lift and the tall mountains appeared. It was unbelievable. We watched the fog lift, revealing mountains dropping deep into the valley below, cliffs so steep it makes your head spin, untouched ruins that beg to be explored, blues and greens that take your breath away. So surreal.

The day kept getting better- moment after moment of gorgeous, breathtaking views! It was so tranquil and peaceful; the world felt so quiet, as if time were standing still. What is amazing is that the ruins were only discovered in 1911, and at that time they were completely untouched. The city is one of the only sites that wasn't destroyed by the conquering Spaniards, which I am so grateful for. It was truly one of the most unforgettable days of my life.