Who Doesn't Like a Little Boat Ride - September 7th

Not many of us are actually up to see the sunrise -- especially in the Amazon. Later, we would ride a boat through the Peruvian Amazon to the Manu Lodge nestled in the Manu National Park. We would see many birds, monkeys, wild boar and alligators.

There's Not Much Room - September 6th

Today would be remembered as the day we almost went off the cliff. We were on our way to the Cloudforest on a very narrow dirt road when we had to share road with an oncoming car. When your guide says, "There's not much room", you know you are in trouble.

Fortunately, we didn't go off the cliff and were able to enjoy a nice bike ride amongst many waterfalls.

Deliverance - September 5th

No picture available for this posting yet - but one will be eventually. We are back in Cusco and now that I'm back to civilization, I'm worried about Charlie. I was able to call him and find that he is still doing well. (Thank you God!).

The group spent the day white water rafting the Urubamba River. It was chilly, but with our wet suits we even did a little cliff jumping. For those of you who know me well will know that I would never pass up a little (or a lot) cliff jumping. The water was so cold (even with the wet suit) that you had to catch your breath before swimming over to the raft!

Inka Trail Blues - September 4th

Relaxing day in Aguas Calientes included spa and shopping. Thanks to my "Peru girls" for the massage!

Later in the afternoon, we took the Vista Train back to Cusco. I think all of us are experiencing a little Inka Trail blues now that it's over.

It's Not the Destination That Counts - September 3rd

As you can see, we reached Machupicchu today. This is what we have all been working for this week. Spectacular isn't it?

While it is spectacular, I will look back on this trek and say that the best part was the journey and not the destination. And, when you think about it -- isn't that what life is all about?

I will also remember the companionship of my friends. Each one has a special memory from this journey and that is something I will never forget.

Steps - September 2nd

Today there were 2 passes to cross, but neither were as high as yesterday. The first pass was at 12800 feet and the 2nd @ 8700 feet. 9.3 miles today and it proved to be a much longer day than yesterday. The climbs were not as difficult, but definitely longer. Today was all about steps & never ending view like this one.

Dead Woman's Pass - September 1st

Today is what I'm hoping would be the hardest day. 7.5 miles doesn't sound so bad - does it? How about climbing from 9800 to 13776 feet and back down to 12500? Now, that adds a new complexity to 7.5 miles. It was difficult, but it was worth every step and both blisters. Today I felt like I had accomplished something. It was tough both physically and mentally. I would not trade it for anything in the world. They say today is the hardest day of the Inka Trail. See the path? This is one of things that makes it difficult. The trail is not even - lots of uneven stones and many many steps.

I'm still amazed at the porters. They carry our clothes, food, tents, cookware and even propane for cooking. I won't mention that they are much faster than us.