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Peering through my plane window, I looked out across the Andes Mountains and gave a big grin. I have been thinking about these mountains and climbing up to the ruins of Machu Picchu for the last six years. Ever since Bobby returned home from his travels in this region and planted the seed with his pictures and stories, it has been in the back of my mind. Arriving in Cusco, I walked through the cobblestone streets and soon realized that many other people had been thinking about the same thing. This heart of the once-powerful Inca Empire is a haven for tourists from all over the world; young and old. Now, I do realize that it was the cities most festive week of the year and people had traveled from a far to experience it; but I still was shocked at the number of tourists around the city. But, even harder for me to believe was that, without even planning it, I ended up arriving here two days before Inti Raymi; and just in time to catch the parades and various other Inca traditions.

Empire Under the Sun

Jeremy Curl
2006-08-28 12:13:15

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food and treatment by our guide (Jason) and crew of three (cook, server, and horsemen) was great. The crew was amazing and made this an experience we will all never forget. The team of horses would go off ahead carrying all of the heavy stuff and the men would have camp and the meals ready awaiting us. Every morning, a hot cup of mint tea was brought to our tent to start the day. Breakfast consisted of omelets, pancakes, yogurt, etc. and the lunch and dinners were better than the meals I have been eating at most restaurants. Jason went out of his way everyday to ensure that we all were doing well and having a good time. Usually in every organized group there is at least one person who is annoying or whinny, but we didn't have a one; well maybe me but I wasn't bothered. Our group of seven (Eline- Norway, Kate- Norway, Laci- Canada, Meagan- Canada, Harriet- England, Neil- England, and myself- homeless) sat around every night and spent hours learning and comparing stuff about each others countries and just having some good laughs. After 5 days, we had all formed a bond and cut up like good friends do. Now besides the good company, the scenery and trek were awesome. Day one brought us through the lower hills of the Andes and up to the base of Salkantay (Wild Mountain). Unaffected by the lights of the city, the stars shone like glitter in the night sky. We all stood with our heads tilted back and looked out at the unfamiliar. The constellations (Big and Small Dipper, Orion's Belt, etc.) that we were all so accustomed to seeing, were nowhere to be found. Staring out into the sky of the Southern Hemisphere introduced us to a whole new group of constellations (The Southern Cross, etc.). Being at this high an altitude really gives you a clear and up-close view of the heavens; but it also can be a bit chilly. That first night was absolutely freezing. Even with three layers of clothing, gloves, beanie, and a goose down sleeping bag, I still had trouble sleeping. The ...