July 11

Day 15

Finally, I can sit down!!!

I DID IT!!! I hiked all the way to Machu Picchu, and it only took me about two hours. Most of the day was spent getting to Machu Picchu and back, so there isn't really much to say. All I know is that if I ever go back, I'm taking a bus to the top. I don't think I could handle two hours of incredible steep stairs. The trail to Machu Picchu is about 9 km, which isn't that far, but the altitude was really what killed me. I was so exhausted that I didn't really explore and instead sat at the overview until I could walk again. My legs were shaking so much that I had to take the bus back down or risk tripping down the mountain. Though I'm really happy that I went to Machu Picchu, I actually ended up doing more on Saturday than I did on Sunday.

It was worth it

Day before I went to Machu Picchu I went to one of the biggest markets in Cusco, San Pedro. It's a sort of covered market full of stalls that sell food and souvenirs. I probably spent more than was wise, but I've just about finished all of my gift shopping. While I was in the market, I accidentally wandered into the butcher section of the market. Needless to say, I was strongly reminded why I'm a vegetarian and didn't eat lunch that day. I think I'll go back to the market again tomorrow to take pictures and finish up my shopping. And I have to go to Green Point, which is a really popular vegan restaurant in Plaza de San Francisco.

The Expedition

LET'S DO THIS

Steps, steps, and more steps

Welcome to Machu Picchu Pueblo

Whoa

Machu Picchu Pueblo