Journey to Machu Picchu- Train Edition

It was an early Wednesday morning and the sun was shining. We were anxiously waiting for the train to arrive at the train station. The station was swarming with mosquitos, which made you feel a mad rush going through your skin, so putting on repellent would be a wise choice. The heat was unbearable therefore hydrating yourself is highly recommendable unless you want to get sun stroke.

The train slowly rolled in front of us as it blew its frightening horn that sends shivers down your spine. It was estimated that the train ride would last 2 hours so you should have enough time to relax from the early morning. We went up steep steps as we boarded the train and sat down in our assigned seats. The coaches were comfortable and cozy. The inside of the train was refreshing due to the powerful air conditioner battling the raging heat. The coach had panoramic windows all the way up to the roof allowing you to embrace the astonishing view. You could see the mountains along with their beautiful snowy peaks that shone like diamonds in the sky. Taking a camera in order to document your journey is an incredible idea so that you never forget and can share your experiences.

The train track was at the bottom of the Sacred Valley next to a beautiful crystal like river. The train rode smoothly through the tracks while slowly descending from 2,792 meters above sea level all the way to 2,040 meters above sea level therefore giving you a pleasant ride mostly free of altitude sickness although most took altitude pills just in case.

Soon after the train rode off into the mountains a crew member passed by the seats with a cart that offered a beverage and a snack, it was free so there is no need to spend money in the train apart from the 57 dollar train ticket.

We were now about half an hour into the train ride when suddenly all went dark, we had gone into a dark tunnel that carved through the side of the mountain. When we were out of the tunnel I was melted like ice cream dripping over your hand by the sight of maybe one of the most beautiful scenery´as I have ever seen in my life. You could see the river sail off into the valley and the beaming rays of light shine down that made a unique scenery that gives you a whole new perspective of Peru and what it holds. It seemed unreal, like something out of a movie.

Soon, it was announced that we were arriving at the train station, but there wasn’t anything in sight. The town we were arriving at was called “Aguas Calientes”. Aguas Calientes is a very small town that can be missed in the blink an eye. The town lies deep in the gorge of the valley and its only form of transportation from and to the town is by train unless you are up for taking on the dreading Inca Trail.