Long Overdue, Amanda went to Peru

I went on a hiking trip in Peru this past June and it was one of my most memorable trips. I don't think I was ready to go to a country where it was winter in June (come on, Amanda) but we lucked out and had perfect weather on the hike.

We started by flying into Cusco, which was once the capital of the Incan empire. It's recommended that you spend a few days in Cusco getting used to the altitude change before starting your trek. Cusco is 11,000 feet above sea level and this kind of altitude change can really put a damper in your plans. I took altitiude medication prior to the trip, and I think it helped. You still need to drink a ton of water and take it easy those first few days. You will never feel as out of shape as you will doing a single flight of stairs in Cusco.

We rested and explored Cusco for a few days before our 26 mile hike to Machu Picchu.

Andenes al Cielo The view from the rooftop of our hotel in Cusco after our hike.Andenes al Cielo

Twelve Angle Stone in Cusco

The Twelve Angle Stone in Cusco. This stone was shaped during the Incan Empire without any mortar.  

Plaza de Armas

This is a view of the Plaza de Armas in downtown Cusco. Here you can find beautiful architecture but also llama keychains for 1 sol.

Trailhead at Machu Picchu

Machu Picchu trail head

trailhead portersThere go our porters!

Llamas in Peru

A bunch of llamas

 Checking out the view with Betty and Veronica the llamas.

Machu Picchu

 We made it! The 26 mile trek to Machu Picchu. 

peruvian llamas vertical

 

Peruvian Llama

 This is Jorge. He's a real pain. Jorge, I'm trying to get to Machu Picchu and you keep popping up on the trail. You bring your raisinettes and the drama everywhere. :eyeroll:

Peruvian Llama

 Classic Jorge. Don't look so innocent.Llama Path in Machu Picchu

This is our hiking group. We used the companyLlama Path and they were amazing. I couldn't say better things about our guides and especially our porters. The team of porters run ahead of the group while carrying up to 45lbs on their back. These trails are the hardest I've ever done, so their endurance and strength is seriously impressive. 

dope viewAnother view during the hike to Machu Picchu. There are ruins and temples all along the marathon-long trail.

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