"DAY 4 of the Inca trail" Peru Travelogue by B_Caro

The campsite in the early morning (at about 5.30-6.00 am)

Really, this little black spot is the Condor. I wasn't quick enough to change my zoomlens :-(

Arriving at the ruins of Intipata.

Deep down there, the Urubamba river

The ruins of Wiñay Wayna, close to the Trekkers Lodge (2700m)

From the Trekkers Lodge it is a walk of about 2 hours before you reach Machu Picchu.
And behind that hill is Macchu Picchu, but first we have to cross this jungle in front of us.

And there she is : Inti Punco or the Sun gate. Passing this gate you'll see Machu Picchu for the first time. At least when you are lucky and there is no mist or clouds.

And after this dark green hill (in front of the photo), is Machu Picchu situated !
Instead of using the newer, shorter and more popular trail, we will take the old trail.
This old route is hardly used and is also longer (and prettier according to our guide).
Choosing this trail, we would arrived at MP in the late afternoon.

I made it ! Finally I am at Machu Picchu :-)

Another view of the campsite.

And before leaving for the 4th and last day, we had a photo with the whole group.

Nearby the campsite, the ruins of <b>Phuyu Pata Marca</b>, with a long chain of ritual baths.

And after a short visit of Phuyu Pata Marca we are on our way to MP.

And now we are on the optional trail.
The new route goes straight down through the jungle.

Following the old trail, you'll see the back from Machu Picchu (between the hills).
And now we had to go down and cross the afforested hills in front of us.