Cusco - Machu Picchu

A long bus ride awaits us from Lima to Cusco. We spend a total of 21 hours on the bus. However, this is not comparable to buses as we know them. In the luxury bus, we have plenty of space and even onboard service with dinner and breakfast. Nevertheless, the journey is exhausting. The biggest problem is the difference in altitude. As we drive over the Andes, we reach up to 4300 meters above sea level. No wonder many people feel dizzy and suffer from nausea. But we manage this route as well. Once we arrive in Cusco, we make our way to the hostel. After a short rest, we stroll to the nearby city center. We browse through the shops and grab something to eat. I try the local alpaca meat. We spend the rest of the evening making ourselves comfortable. The next morning, we want to inquire about tours to Machu Picchu. We find what we are looking for in a small tour agency and book a 2-day trip.
We start this trip the next morning.
We visit a textile production where we learn how the Incas produce, dye, and process wool. In Chinchero, we look at the expansive terraces of the Incas and visit a church. Then we continue to Salineras, where we learn more about salt production in the many pools here. In Moray, we hike along the circular terraces that resemble an arena. We continue on the bus through the picturesque landscape until we reach our last stop in Ollantaytambo. Here, we climb the many steps and see the impressive ruins. Thanks to our guide, we always receive a lot of interesting information. After a group lunch, we part ways and go to the train.
We take the Inca Rail to Aguas Calientes. We spend one night here.

After an early breakfast, we set off at 5 o'clock to catch the bus that takes us up to Machu Picchu. Despite the crowds, it goes very quickly and we enter the site. Unfortunately, we can't find our tour guide, so we explore the impressive buildings on our own. We wander through everything and climb the hill again for a wonderful view. Since we still have plenty of time, we decide to hike to the Sun Gate. It's a bit strenuous, but the 1-hour hike is worth it. After enjoying the view, we walk back. We watch the llamas for a while before returning to the valley of Aguas Calientes.
We find out that there is a holiday here today. At the main square, dignitaries have gathered on a stage, and the associations march past in time to the brass band music to present themselves.
After a meal, we stroll through the large market and browse through the offered items.
Our train and subsequent bus back to Cusco only leave in the evening. We arrive in the night, pack our things, and fall into bed. After a short night, we continue early to the bus to Punto.