Not Photoshopped

Breathtaking. Awe-inspiring. Indelible. Although accurate, none can
adequately describe our group´s visit to Machu Picchu.

We began the day with a 4:45 a.m. wake-up call. the excitement of
witnessing the sun peaking through the morning clouds atop the ancient
Inca village coupled with groggy eyes made the day's first few hours
interesting. But when we reached the village around 6:15 a.m. the
early alarm seemed well worth the struggle.

We had crossed our fingers and toes for good weather, and our prayers
were answered. Despite the jungle´s rainy season, we experienced a
clear view with only a few clouds. Other visitors shared our desire
for the early-morning views, but we were able to snap many, many
photos without distraction.

Our tour guide provided a true local history. While he mentioned the
American Hiram Bingham ¨discovered´´ Macchu Picchu, he was quick to
note the ancient village had not been lost among the locals. We
meandered through the ancient temples, living quarters, and open areas
just as the Inca´s may have done. Our guide aptly noted that the more
compactly the ancient stones were laid indicated the level of
superiority and adoration the Inca´s placed on that particular room.
For example, the stone for a temple was laid the most densely, and a
local´s quarter was given looser construction. Nonetheless, to witness
these ancient ruins was a once-in-a-lifetime experience, and one which
we´ll always remember.

-Ruth