Machu Picchu: a Snapshot
Entrancing. Energetic. Ethereal... I still haven't quite found the words to describe the magic. Put simply, Machu Picchu was otherworldly: a beacon of faith, a testament to what's achievable if we dare to both dream it and do it, and a legacy of the Incas' everlasting spirit.
The Incan citadel (ca. 1450), situated more than 7,900 ft. in the Eastern Andes and nestled within the lush highland jungle (where the Andes meet the Amazon basin) is the most majestic sight I've ever laid eyes upon. The vast ancient city blends seamlessly against its stunning natural landscape. The breathtaking dry-stone structures (including temples, residences and terraces) are meticulously strewn along more than one million sq. ft. – an inimitable feat in both architecture and agriculture.
Yet, I was most struck by the Incas' ardent faith in the power of Pachamama (Mother Nature), in the blessings of the Sol (sun god) and the messages delivered by the revered Condor. The energetic pull of that faith is palpable at Machu Picchu; the higher I hiked, the more I felt it – the mountain breeze a reprieve from the sun, its caress a reminder of just how small I am (we all are) in the face of the elements, of the comfort provided by the tapestry sewn by stories before ours.
While many records of this ancient civilization were lost during the time between the city's inception and its discovery in the 20th Century, the native Quechua language, still practiced today, has allowed for the preservation of important and beloved traditions – the beautiful Incan spirit alive and well in modern-day Peru.
I close my eyes and bow my head in admiration and homage to a culture that isn't mine but that has so deeply shaped the continent that birthed me, to a people that listened and learned devotedly, to lessons that have journeyed from century to century, to a sun that continues to shine all of these years later.
In its glow, I stand atop this mountain in awe. 🖤
IF YOU GO…
Take the Altitude Seriously. No matter how physically well-conditioned you are, if you’re visiting The Sacred Valley from sea level, your body will take a couple of days to adjust to the high altitude of the Andes. Give yourself a solid day or two to get used to walking at 11,000 ft. before you take on a Machu Picchu hike. There’s plenty to enjoy, do and shop for in the valley before you head up.
Stack on the Layers. The weather in the high jungle is… well, wild! You’ll experience all four seasons during a single hike, so come prepared to face the rain, the cold and the (dry) heat. The temps hover in the low 30s in the early morning and rise quickly to a particularly warm 70s by midday. Your best bet is to bring a light backpack in which to stash your layers as you go. Also, light, grippy hiking boots are a must, particularly as you make your way up the narrow Incan elevator (as our guide so eloquently referred to Machu Picchu’s steep, narrow steps).
Get There Early. You might be tempted to sleep in while on vacation, but you’ll regret missing the most ideal light and temperature if you don’t make it to Machu Picchu in the early morning. Not to mention, the sights will thank you, as early mornings mean far less hikers with whom to share the trails. We got there at 7 a.m. and felt as though we had the place all to ourselves. By the time we wrapped up the hike, close to noon, the terraces were peppered with people – taking away from the peaceful and panoramic views, if I’m being frank.
Pay Your Respect to the Sun God. If you walk past it too quickly, you’ll miss it, but the Temple of the Sun deserves its moment. The Incas built the sacred spot to pay tribute to and give offerings to the Sun god, the civilization’s most significant deity. The narrow cave and rock-carved altar are nearly inconspicuous, blending in with their natural environment, yet the cave’s energy is undeniable. I stood facing it with my eyes closed and let the sun – perfectly aimed at the cave – kiss my back as a cool wind caressed my face. Despite the unrelenting Andean sun, the stones outlining the cave’s entrance are eerily cold to the touch. I placed my hand firmly on one, closed my eyes and affirmed my intention. I’d encourage you to try it, too.
Breathe It All In. This may seem cliched, but this is a visit that requires contemplation. Machu Picchu was impressively built over a half-millennium ago, then hastily abandoned, only to be rediscovered in the early 20th Century. It’s an astonishing feat considered to be one of the Seven Wonders of the World, and standing against its vastness is worthy of both admiration and reflection. Put your camera down for a moment and take it all in. Close your eyes. Listen intently. There is so much to be learned from being here, if you have the opportunity to pay it a visit.
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Want to learn more? This piece by National Geographic succinctly captures the lore and mystery of Machu Picchu, along with some incredible facts about the impressive Incan sanctuary. Happy reading!