Climbing Mount Machu Pichu

On my visit to Peru, Mach Pichu was to be the highlight. It was not, for reasons I will speak to on another post. On this post, I would like to tell the story of climbing Mount Machu Picchu after entering this historic site.

I have to admit I was ill prepared for this climb. I thought it would be much easier than it was. My biggest mistake was I brought only one bottle of water. That mistake caused me considerable discomfort.

But first the climb:

The stairs leading to the top of the mountain. As you can see it is well travelled. I did this first thing upon entry when it was actually less crowded.

I know it looks easy in the photo here, but this was a long and arduous climb for me. But there is a reward of some fantastic views at the top as well as along the journey.

People aren't the only ones on the trail!

A photo stop of Machu Pichu during the climb. I'll share up close pictures on another post.

Machu Pichu was built by the Incas in the 1400's. It is located at over 1 1/2 miles elevation. The Incas abandoned their city in the clouds after the Spanish Conquest a century later.

By now I had finished my bottle of water thinking I was near the top. Boy was I wrong! Another hour to go.

I finally made it after a couple hours of climbing. Doesn't sound like much time, but when you're out of water it's brutal.

I remember when I reached the summit there were two French girls at the top (along with many others). They did not speak English and they were trying to get someone to photo them. I spoke enough French I was able to help them out with their photo shoot. They returned the favor by snapping some pictures for me.

I may be smiling in this picture but I remember being in agony for water. I hoped someone would be selling some at the top, but no way.

View from the top.

I didn't stick around to take many photos at the top as I was eager to find water. Fortunately, I was able to descend in about half the time it took me to ascend.

When I made it to the bottom, I was as thirsty as I've ever been in my life. In fact, I was becoming concerned that I wouldn't make it and would pass out on the way. This was quite an uncomfortable feeling, but I could not bring myself to ask a stranger for water.

Nowhere inside Machu Picchu do they sell water. I had to exit the gate to find a vendor. I bought 3 bottles and drank two immediately. Now I was ready to re-enter and visit Machu Pichu. I'll post on this experience another time.