Our final major destination was Machu Picchu, which for many people is the sole reason they visit Peru. Imagine what you think it is like, and then multiply it’s magic and mystique by 100! It really is the city in the clouds, as we experienced ourselves with a 6am bus ride up the mountain to get there right after dawn. Well over 5000 people a day visit Machu Picchu now, so being early has its benefits. Washi took us to the peak overlooking the city, and at first we saw only fog. After a few minutes it started to clear and the city magically appeared. We stood dumbfounded, at the site before us. We learned about artefacts and rituals of the Incas. We saw much local wildlife including Llamas, large birds of prey, chinchillas, lizards, and swallows by the dozens. It’s as if they were drawn to that place, just like we were.

An optional hike up to Hyuana Picchu was chosen by several of our group. They allow only 300 a day to trek up the 300 meters to the famous peak that overlooks the city. I overcame my own fear of heights and make the 2 hour round trip trek, and was not a bit disappointed. It was exhilarating, exhausting, empowering and the view of the panorama was nothing short of spectacular. We even did some yoga poses at the top – warrior pose of course, in honour of our Inca sisters and brothers who came before. More than a few times I imagined myself an Inca princess while sitting on a terrace in Machu Picchu.

Our journey home took us back through the valley and Cusco where we saw more Andean bands, ate more amazingly delicious food, and met more wonderful people. We ended with a fire ceremony in the hills overlooking Cusco while we dancing, hugged and said our good byes.

One word that I’d use to describe my journey “WOW!”

In a much broader sense I experienced spirituality, inner growth, a strong sense of community and giving, a connection to Pacha Mama (Mother Earth) and her people, FUN!!!, It was inspiring, informative, interesting, did I mention FUN?!, adventurous, sometimes challenging. It helped me push past some of my own fears and reach new heights – literally!

But the biggest thing I bring back with me is love. I hope you’ve been able to get a sense of that as I hopefully shared my love of people and of this beautiful country with you. I WILL most certainly be going back to Peru again.