Day Five of the Salkantay Trek
After 5 days, we did it. Our absolute jubilation at making it to the city of Machu Picchu was only temporarily dashed when we saw just how many stairs we had to climb to reach the sacred site. We left our hotel before dawn in an attempt to beat all the tourists and race up to the entrance. After days of walking, my feet were just two huge blisters attached to my legs. My legs were stiff yet noodley. My back felt like I had a hot iron pressed between my shoulder blades. But my heart was stronger than ever. This last climb, while still tough, was considerably easier on my lungs after finally acclimating to the altitude. After about an hour hike, we arrived, covered in sweat and dirt the amazing ruins of Machu Picchu.
Stairs at dawn
In the early morning hours of our 5th day, we began walking up the stairs to Machu Picchu. This is the view from those stairs.
The early morning focused determination of a group of hikers who have walked over 45 miles and are now in the home stretch
The final stairs up to Machu Picchu