This throwback Thursday is very special to me. Three years ago to the day, together with 16 enthusiastic hikers, 21 impressive Peruvian porters and 3 guides I conquered Machu Picchu. It had been a dream for years and I proudly made it. 

Even though this 4-day hike (45 km) was not too difficult (if you compare to many hikes in the alps), the altitude kinda made it more challenging (4212 meters at the highest). Some great weather (apart from 6 hours of down pour), rock hopping downhill to follow our crazy porters’ pace and very lively charades made this experience unforgettable!

I’m very happy to take you this week to Machu Picchu, Peru! 

About Machu Picchu 

• Located Northwest from Cuzco in Peru, nested at 2430 meters, it was built around 1450AD and is a symbol of the Incan Empire  
• It was re-discovered by Bingham, an American archeologist in 1911 
• It was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1983
•  And named one of the new Seven Wonders in 2007

Machu Picchu’s random and funny facts:

• Bingham was apparently looking for the ‘lost’ city, known as Vilcabamba
• In the Quechua Indian language, “Machu Picchu” means “Old Peak”
• Many of the porters will sleep with a shiny metal object or mirror beneath them. They believe it wards off ancient spirits within the earth
• Every year marathoners race along the Inca Trail

If you have 96 hours for Machu Picchu, have fun:

• Hiking the Inca Trail. 45 km over 4 days.
• Camping on the trail. Quite an experience!
• Getting a wake up call at 3 am to reach the sun gate by sunrise! Very rewarding!
• Checking out the ‘city’. And it’s temples.  Get a guide. It is worth it. Very interesting 
• Taking the mandatory ‘victory’ picture! You have made it, yeah!  

Happy trails and remember: Carpe Diem!

Travelling backpacking Inca Trail Macchu Picchu TBT