This is the 3rd and final part of my travel journal. (See the first or second part)
As I mentioned at the end of Part 2, I was lucky in my misadventure. Despite my pharmacist’s advice and my preparation, I fell ill.
I got out of the hospital very quickly, I was told that recovery could take seven to ten days. It seems I was very lucky.
Here is the continuation of my trip.
2nd Friday
Montaña de Siete Colores
The Montaña de Siete Colores, also known as Vinicunca or Rainbow Mountain, is a spectacular natural site located in the Peruvian Andes near Cusco. Its unique geological formation creates a landscape of vibrant colors, ranging from red to purple, green and yellow, resulting from the different layers of minerals in the soil. Once hidden under a layer of ice, the melting of the glaciers has revealed its stunning beauty to the world, making it now one of Peru’s most popular attractions, drawing travelers from all over the world to admire its striking panorama and experience the surrounding Andean culture.
I was supposed to go there but I’m going to follow my doctor’s recommendations and not go to higher altitudes. Montaña de Siete Colores is at 5200 meters above sea level, about 1800 m higher than the city of Cusco.
This Friday is a holiday in Peru (Independence Day), so I don’t have any volunteer work. I’m going to take advantage of it to spend the day solo walking around Cusco.
Cusco solo
16 km, that’s what I walked this day. AND that, only in the center of Cusco.
During the introduction, PVT had given me a map with free or very economical activities to do near the tourist district. I took the opportunity to do some of them and others that I found by myself.
I started my day by going to one of the largest markets in Cusco, el Mercado de San Pedro.
Then it was walking, walking and more walking. I saw street vendors, historic neighborhoods, a palm tree that looked like a giant pineapple, the Plaza de Armas, the “tourist traps” (like in any tourist city), women with alpacas and narrow streets rising into the mountains with breathtaking views.
In the evening, I went to join other volunteers at a local microbrewery/pub: Brewery of the Sacred Valley. There was live music and the atmosphere was perfect!
We then joined Puru, a local singer/songwriter at the Republic of Pisco. Pisco is a local alcohol (also available here in some SAQs).
After a great night of partying, it’s time to go to bed. I have to get up before sunrise for my weekend expedition.
2nd Saturday
Departure for Ollantaytambo
This is the beginning of my excursion, more than 3 hours of bus to get to Ollantaytambo and then take a train to the city of Aguas Calientes. My stomach is not at its best following my infection but I want to go so I endure. The train is an experience in itself, we enter the Peruvian jungle and actors perform at the boarding and during the journey. Let the show begin!
Aguas Calientes
I finally arrive in Aguas Calientes and check into the hotel. Aguas Calientes is the only town that gives access to Machu Picchu. I don’t have my ticket to go there yet, I have to go to the police station to register and have a chance to get a ticket. I have a place to get my ticket but I have to show up at 4:30 the next day to join my group (27th group) for the ticket purchase for the same day. I’m not even sure if I’ll have a ticket before my train back the next day.
Tip: If you want to visit Machu Picchu, buy your tickets in advance. You will avoid having to spend a night in a hotel and even risk not having tickets.
Aguas Calientes, also known as Machu Picchu Pueblo, is a quaint little town nestled in the Peruvian mountains near the famous archaeological site of Machu Picchu. The town is a starting point and gateway for travelers heading to the iconic Inca citadel, offering easy access via train or on foot along the famous Inca Trail. Aguas Calientes gets its name from its natural thermal waters, which are popular with visitors as a way to unwind after a day of exploring the ruins. With its cobblestone streets, quaint restaurants, and welcoming atmosphere, Aguas Calientes also offers a lively atmosphere where visitors can rest, refuel, and prepare to experience one of the most famous wonders of the ancient world.
2nd Sunday
I show up at 4:30 in the morning in the city center. They divide us into our groups at 7:00 and my group is finally called at 8:00. Will I get a ticket for the same day or will I take the train back to Cusco without having been able to see Machu Picchu.
I finally got my ticket, my bus leaves in 20 minutes and I have to empty my hotel room. I ran all over town to get my stuff and go back down to jump on my bus. (Aguas Calientes is just uphill and the roads are rocky)
Macchu Pichu
I made it. I’m going to see Machu Picchu! It wasn’t in my plans when I planned my trip but everyone told me I had to go.
Machu Picchu, I wasn’t even eight years old and I had heard about it in the series The Mysterious Cities of Gold. But seeing it in real life is something else. There are four different routes and the ticket I have gives me access to only one. It’s so big, so majestic. I’ll be able to go back and feel the same feeling as the first time.
The pictures speak for themselves.
I spent hours visiting and noticing the exceptional details before taking the bus back to Aguas Calientes.
Aguas Calientes
I had the whole afternoon in Aguas Calientes before taking the train and then a bus back. The weather was nice, I was able to enjoy a beautiful sunny Sunday.
2nd Volunteer Week
This week was a bit calmer, my stomach was still recovering from its own mishap. I was so happy to see the kids again and the staff were surprised to see me back on my feet so quickly (they had been informed of my hospital stay).
I was assigned to the older group where I did math, geometry, fine motor skills and development workshops.
Friday was my last day in Cusco, I took my return flight on Saturday morning. Three more flights back, I will be back with memories in my head and a desire to return and continue to discover this region, this country.
Have a good trip everyone!