Tag 116: Aguas Calientes

After a slightly chaotic breakfast, we are taken to the third attraction of our trip: zip-lining, in small buses. Still half asleep, we are individually fitted with our gear, helmets, gloves and given a brief introduction. The zip-lining takes place at a height of 150 meters. That means, of course, that we first have to hike 150 meters up the mountain. Once we reach the top, we admire the view and behave unusually reserved. It takes a few minutes until the first volunteer is found. Sliding over the cliff is surprisingly relaxing. Once we reach the other side, we are all hooked. On to the next zip line. In total, we slide on five different lines until we reach the bottom again. After that, we have to walk across a very shaky bridge and we have made it. After returning the equipment, we get into our small bus and are taken to Hidroeléctrica, where we have lunch. Of course, what else, soup, rice, potatoes, and a piece of chicken. We are now very close to Machu Picchu. For the rest of the day, we hike along the railway tracks through the jungle to Aguas Calientes. With us, hundreds of other tourists. From above, the railway tracks would probably resemble an ant trail. After 12 kilometers, we arrive at our hostel in Machu Picchu village completely exhausted. This village only serves the purpose of accommodating the many tourists and emptying their pockets. In the evening, we have an à la carte dinner in one of the many restaurants, and after some instructions for tomorrow, we go to bed.