We climbed high into the mountains of Peru and the air was so thin our bodies struggled to adjust and I found myself only being able to walk 30 steps before I had to stop as my heart was beating so fast and I couldn’t seem to get the energy to move another step. I would stand and try to slow down my breathing for 20 seconds and then take off again for another 30 steps. This is how I got to 14,700 feet on the Quarry Trail. The best part about stopping every 30 steps was that it was a reason to take pictures!
The trail was challenging but the view over the two passes we crossed were jaw dropping. Each time I got to the top of one it was a surprise as to what I would see on the other side. Our porters/horses were fabulous and our campsites were perched on ledges with views that I never wanted to leave. However – it was chilly up there – and Megan was definitely ready to get down to lower altitude as she struggled with altitude sickness.
After finishing the 3 day hike, we got our reward – Machu Picchu. We took the train after the hike to Aguas Calientes town at the base of Machu Picchu and had a great visit the next day. We had ample of time to wander around the site, dodge the thousands of tourists and once again take lots of pictures (and a few selfies).
After a short stop in the jungle of the Amazon Basin, then we head back to Lima to volunteer with kids and build houses for a week – a real change of pace from the mountains!
Our first campsite on the Quarry Trail. A nice view to wake up to!
Hiking among giants on the Quarry Trail!
We head to 14000 ft tomorrow, and will be using these coca leaves. A little pinch btwn the cheek & gums…
I met this little guy in a village in #Peru while hiking in the Andes.
Hiking to the pass on the Quarry Trail. A tough hike had @meganlea_ battling altitude sickness.
Morning clouds arnd our 2nd campsite along the Quarry Trail. Yes, we hiked down that slope to get there!
What is Week In-St
Sherry Ott is a refugee from corporate IT who is now a long term traveler, blogger, and photographer. She’s a co-founder of Briefcasetobackpack.com, a website offering career break travel inspiration and advice.
Additionally, she runs an around the world travel blog writing about her travel and expat adventures at Ottsworld.com.com.
