Ailsa’s Travel Theme this week, brought to mind the wonderful view from the top of Machu Picchu, the ‘Lost City of the Incas’, which I was privileged to visit in 2003.
(Click on photos for a larger, sharper view.)
This ancient Inca city, is believed by most archaeologists to have been built as an estate for the Inca emperor Pachacuti (1438-72). It had lain hidden amidst dense jungle-covered mountains until in 1911, when American historian Hiram Bingham, announced his discovery.
The well-preserved ruins overlooking the Vilcanata river valley, seem to almost cling to the steep hillside, and are surrounded by colossal green mountains. Even if youโve seen photos of this wondrous structure, it doesnโt really prepare you for the breathtaking and awe-inspiring sight when you see it firsthand.
Of course, to see the amazing views from above, you have to actually get up there, and we were transported at speed along this narrow winding road with many hazardous hairpin bends. Meeting another vehicle head on seemed a very likely possibility, but the drivers were fortunately very experienced, and although my heart was in my mouth most of the way up and down, we made it safely.
To see more entries for Ailsa’s Theme, just click here.
Oh, these are beautiful photos. Thank you for sharing them.
Beautiful shots Sylvia. Brought back vivid memories of our visit a few years later.
Thanks, Madhu. It’s a really unforgettable place.
Incredible views Sylvia ๐
Yes they were absolutely stunning. ๐
must be an incredible feeling to be up there! and to think that a community once lived there is beyond me. great capture, Sylvia! thanks for sharing ๐
Yes it was, Lola. I can’t imagine living all the way up the mountain in such an isolated spot.
Incredible capture Sylvia. I really enjoyed this fabulous landscape photos.
Thanks so much, DellaAnna. ๐
Wonderful place Sylvia ! Great Choice !
Thanks so much, Max. ๐
Absolutely breath taking!
Thanks, Cocoa. ๐
wow – what cool shots and I read your comment to lucid g. about the tea and adjusting to the altitude – and wow – that is high up there – and what great photos you give us. ๐ โค
Thanks, Yvette. Yes, that altitude was quite breathtaking. ๐ฏ
ha – and how funโฆ.
Brilliant photos Sylvia, just absolutely cracking. My mum and dad used to have ‘Saturday boys’ to help them out at work. One of them left to travel and sent me postcards, one of which was Machu Pichu. He (and his older brother who also worked for m and d) came from a poor Catholic family on a rough council estate. The older one went on to become a successful lawyer, and the Machu Pichu one went into journalism. So whenever I see Machu Pichu I think of them, how they had a poor start in life and got somewhere, maybe my mum and dad helped them a teeny bit of the way. Who knows.
Thanks, Kate. That’s a really happy story. It’s really great when you can give someone a leg-up. ๐
I’d love to see Machu Picchu but the altitude wouldn’t agree with me, so your photos are a comfy way to ‘visit’ ๐
Yes, the altitude is a problem for some people, as Cuzco is 11,500ft above sea level. I suffered from blinding headaches and nausea the first night, but after copious amounts of Coca Tea and some Disprin, I was right as ninepence the next day. ๐
Such a stunning location, beautifully captured Sylvia!
Thanks so much, Adrian. ๐
Thanks for sharing the photos and information. In 1972 we were in South America we al wanted to visit the Incas. Sad to say the young ones, like us, could not go because we did not have the money. Those who had the money could not go because they were too old, (breathing problems) Would have liked to go there.
That’s a pity. Maybe the old ones should have just paid for you young ones. ๐
We tried that one but they were not happy to do that ha ha
Meanies! ๐ฆ ๐
Your photos only make me more excited at the prospect of our trip in June! Wonderful captures Sylvia!
Thanks, Sue. It won’t be long now, will it? ๐
I’m sure the next 6 months will go by quickly. ๐
This must be the most magical place to visit…. the historical site, and the views would be a life long memory…
Yes it certainly was a most memorable trip, bulldog. ๐
Breathtakingly beautiful views from up there! I’ve always been fascinated by the secrets of ancient ruins…this one still remains on the bucket list๐
Thanks, Tiny. I’m sure you’ll get there one day. ๐
That is UP there! Thanks for the great share.
Yes, very UP there, Nancy. Glad you enjoyed. ๐
I’m not sure I would have been brave enough to endure that road (without a tranquilizer!) You are so very courageous, but I bet it was all worth it in the end.
Yes, it was a bit nerve racking, but not the worst drive I’ve ever had. ๐ฏ
You have some of the most breathtaking photos, Sylvia. Breathtaking! ๐ — aside from the fascinating history. ๐
Thanks, Marcy. Glad you enjoyed. ๐
The place has to be more stunning than pictures can capture. For me, the second one is awesome!
Thanks so much, Frank. Yes, you really need to see it for real to get the full impact. ๐
That mountain road looks like a snake with all its turns and bends. We have been my fair share of mountain roads in Taiwan and I know how scary they can be. However, the view is usually worth it and it your case, it was magnificent. I would love to see Machu Picchu.
Thanks, Constance. Yes, definitely worth the scary ride. ๐
De ja vu ๐ Always an awesome sight, Syl.
Thanks, Rommel. Glad you enjoyed seeing these again. ๐
I never tire of these iconic views, Sylvia. Breathtaking. Getting there was indeed worth it.
Thanks, Lynne. Yes, you’re absolutely right. The journey half way across the world and up the mountain, was definitely worth it. ๐
Nothing beats this sight…it still brings tears to my eyes. Thank you for posting – you know I had no camera in 1981…
Thanks, Ann Christine. Sorry to bring the tears to your eyes. Maybe you can go back again one day. ๐
What an incredible place…lucky you.
Thanks, Debra. Yes, I was really fortunate to be able to tick this one off my Bucket List. ๐
Wow! The views are stunning.
Absolutely, Colline. Unbeatable. ๐
What an amazing place to visit….just stunning
Thanks, Seonaid. Yes, this was one of the most stunning sights I’ve ever witnessed. ๐
The secrets that remain untold here. Just beautiful and breath taking. I’m happy with the view in my comfy chair.
Yes, I’m sure there are many untold secrets in this place. You are so welcome to the vicarious armchair travelling. ๐
Great photo’s of Machu Pitchu
Thanks so much, Marylou. ๐
That is an amazing sight – one you will never forget! I’m not crazy about making heart in mouth journeys, but if I make it, I’d better be smart like you and take lots of pictures to prove I did it! ๐ These are gorgeous! ๐
Thanks, Marsha. Definitely an unforgettable trip. ๐
I always found it amazing how the structures lasted for so long, A true testament to the people who lived there ๐
Yes, I agree with you Andy. They really knew a thing or two about building structures to last more than a couple of decades. ๐
Indeed! ๐
Breath taking pictures even for non-first hand view! To build the city this complex and using the stones is amazing.
Thanks, YC. Yes, they must have been smart builders in those days, and they didn’t have the fancy machinery and tools we have nowadays. ๐