Kongo rode the train from Ollantaytameo to Aguas Calliente to reach the base of the mountains that hide Machu Picchu. Along the way it travels next to the Rio Urubamba which eventually becomes the Amazon River. The mountain shots on this post were taken through the windows of the train as it passed through the narrow valley leading to Aguas Callientie (Hot Waters) AKA Machupicchu Town.
There are a couple of different trains that go to Machu Picchu but everyone must take the train to reach the ruins or do the four-day hike. Kongo chose the train.
The train is called the Vista Dome train because of all the windows in the top of the train. You spend a lot of time looking up at the spectacular mountains that cover the entire route.
While traveling on the train (the rides takes an hour and a half) you are served a great little brunch by friendly staff. It was like flying first class.
Kongo spent most of his time on the train glued to the window!
And, like almost everywhere in Peru, if you forgot a hat or backpack some friendly local was there to help you out!
Travel safe. Have fun.
Looks awesome!
It is awesome!
We are going to Machu Picchu in June and trying to decide if we want to hike the trail or take the train. Do you know what kind of sleeping arrangements are on the trail? Thanks, Wooly
You camp out along the trail. Every hiker has a porter to carry their gear and I think you get a foam mat and a pop tent. If you are considering hiking I recommend you get your reservations in soon. Have fun! You will love this place.
Those photos just took my breath away! Kongo, I hope you realize how lucky you are! Some humans have never been to Machu Picchu! ^_^ Happy travels!
Thanks! The whole thing took my breath away too and didn’t have anything at all to do with the high altitude! I do feel very lucky to have been able to visit this special place.
Fab!
Thanks, Sue!
I am majorly jealous of the little simian! 😉
What a great train, love the sunroof! Wonderful series of pictures, I have really enjoyed following Kongo’s trip round Machu Picchu. 🙂
Thanks, Katie. The monkey goes to Galapagos Islands tomorrow. That should be fun too.
kewl place huh! 🙂
Very kewl
It’s on my bucket list for next year, for now I’ll just have to be consumed with jealousy!
It’s well worth the wait!
It’s a cruel choice, the hike or the train. A spectacular one, by the looks of things, though. Definitely first class flying (and to think – four days vs an hour and a half!).
Twenty years ago Kongo would have chosen the hike. Today he likes the view from the train.
🙂
What a stunning place! Kongo is one lucky monkey! 🙂 Wishing you happy travels!
Thanks, V.
Wow………..Fantastic!
Pam, it is oh so great. Wish you guys were here.
Love the hat, Kongo!
I would also have chosen the train! 🙂 Looks like a beautiful journey! How did you deal with altitude sickness Kongo?