Machu Picchu, Peru: A Journey of Awe and Discovery

Standing Above the Clouds: Machu Picchu

For a long time, Machu Picchu felt like somewhere other people went.

My daughter completed the four-day Inca Trail years earlier and spoke about it so vividly that it almost became hers in my mind. I listened, fascinated — and quietly unsure whether I would ever stand there myself.

The idea of hiking for four days at altitude did not appeal to my ageing knees. But I discovered there was another way.

So I travelled by train from Cusco to Aguas Calientes, and then by bus up the winding mountain road — arriving not exhausted, but ready to take it in.

I may not have hiked for four days, but I was there. And that was enough.

What Makes Machu Picchu Extraordinary

Machu Picchu was built by the Incas over 500 years ago. Hidden for centuries and rediscovered in 1911 by Hiram Bingham. This fortress city was constructed without modern tools, with stones carved and placed so perfectly they’ve endured earthquakes for generations. 

Every terrace, temple, and pathway was designed with purpose, reflecting intelligence, ingenuity, and deep respect for nature.

Water channels still function. Agricultural systems still make sense. The site reflects ingenuity — but also restraint. The Incas did not dominate the mountain; they collaborated with it.

That balance impressed me deeply.

Temples, Astronomy & Design

What fascinated me most were the temples.

• The Temple of the Sun.
• The Temple of the Condor.
• The Temple of the Three Windows.

Each one aligned not only with the landscape, but with the cosmos — the sun, the moon, even the Milky Way. The Incas were not merely builders; they were astronomers, and engineers.

 

Their understanding of astronomy shaped the layout of this ancient city. Light was calculated. Shadows were intentional. Windows framed celestial events.

Every stone had a reason.

Every view had a purpose.

I found that deeply humbling.

And that is where my admiration met awe.

The Temple of the Sun is one of the most important structures in Machu Picchu. And it is said  the Temple was a ritual centre in honour of Pachamama – Mother Earth. 

I was guided through a number of structures, some were more significant and more important than others but each one with its own story.

The Guard House

The Guard House is often described as the best place for the iconic photograph.

But it surprised me. From the outside, it looked  little more than a vantage point for photos.

From there, the whole city spreads out beneath you — neat terraces, rising peaks, the familiar postcard view.

And yet, if I am honest, I felt slightly underwhelmed.

It seemed less like a place to linger and more like a designated viewing platform. Important historically, yes — it once served as a watch point over the main entrances — but now it felt like a queue forming for the perfect shot.

I took the photograph, of course. And then I moved on.

What stayed with me far more were the temples.

This doorway caught my attention not least because of the view of Machu Picchu beyond but because of the build and design – ingenious.

And then there were the alpacas — grazing calmly, completely unbothered by altitude, tourists, or history. Far more graceful than I felt at 2,440 metres.

The Sun Gate

The Sun Gate offered another perspective. Many visitors trek here as part of the Inca Trail, but I took the easier route.

Even so, the view felt earned. From this vantage point, I could see the terraces, temples, and the city spread below — a tapestry of human ingenuity and natural wonder.

Visiting Machu Picchu is about more than seeing ruins. It’s about feeling them.

The air was crisp. The vegetation lush.  I found myself standing still more than walking, letting the Andes wrap around me.

I forgot about taking pictures. 

Travel rarely offers true stillness.

Machu Picchu did.

As I left, clouds were beginning to gather over the peaks. The city slowly disappeared into mist — almost as if reminding us that it had once chosen to remain hidden.

Standing there, I realised it was never about conquering the mountain or climbing the highest point.

I did not need to hike for four days. I did not need to climb the highest point. I simply needed the courage to go.

It was about being present once I arrived.

Practical tips:

• Visitor numbers are strictly managed to protect the site. Book in advance.
• You do not have to hike the four-day Inca Trail to experience it. I chose the train to Aguas Calientes followed by the short bus ride up.
• Bring water. Wear proper shoes. Move slowly — altitude is not impressed by enthusiasm.
• A knowledgeable local guide transforms the experience from sightseeing into storytelling.

You can also read about Walking into Petra and Standing in Awe– another awe-inspiring wonder – click here