We woke to more stunning views from our camp site. This in itself was a complete reward for the trek.
After breakfast we said our goodbyes to the porters. The porters rarely go on to Machu Picchu, instead taking a shorter path down to the railway line to deliver the equipment on.
Despite the occasional mist the weather was fine as we descended into the more tropical slopes. We made a diversion to take in another ruined Inca town perched precariously on a mountain side. The main attraction for the kids was a set of llamas grazing on the terraces.
From the ruin it was more clambering down uneven stone steps to our final lunch camp.
After lunch was the last leg, a gradual walk up to the Sun Gate. Parts of this path are precarious and due to past accidents some wooden barriers have been added. A notorious set of stairs led me to clamber up on all fours. Eventually we reached the Sun Gate.
The Sun Gate is positioned above Machu Picchu and would have been a check point into the city in Incan times. Although the city was still some distance off there was a real feeling of having made it. From there it is literally downhill all the way.
After the Sun Gate the trail changes character. The path is broader and the stones are flatter. As well as hikers there are day visitors walking up to the Sun Gate for the view.
Finally we reached Machu Picchu - tired and with aching knees and in strong need of a shower. We took some photos but resisted exploring until the next day.
We walked to the main exit and clambered onto a bus that took us to the modern town below.
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