MACHU PICCHU, PERU

After experiencing frenzied Cusco, we were hesitant in making our way to the ultimate tourist attraction of the region, Machu Picchu. We decided to take the train from Ollantaytambo, one of the cheapest options, costing about $70 each, which is an outrageous amount for a two hour train ride in South America. Another $60 each for the day pass to visit the site and we were ready.

Aguas Caliente, or Machu Picchu town, is set in a beautiful, tropical setting with an raging river running through it. It has tremendous potential but the final result is atrocious. Overrun by tourism with an appearance of having been built overnight, we didn't meet one person who visited the place and had enjoyed the experience. Nearly all restaurants are identical, serving mediocre and overpriced pizza, pasta or grilled meats. We spent two nights ceaselessly being haggled in this ugly, unfriendly town.

We chose to hike up to the ruins instead of taking the bus. Setting off at 5 am we made the steep climb in about an hour, passing many wheezing and sweaty people who struggled up the hill. While short, it is by no means an easy trek. We got to the entrance and lined up with the crowd waiting for the gates to open. Once inside, perched on a hilltop we waited until 7:30 for the sun to rise on Machu Picchu along with all the other visitors snapping away pictures.

Having taken the coveted "myself with Machu Picchu in the background pictures", we headed up the Wayna Picchu, a steep mountain overlooking Machu Picchu. The hike up is vertiginous but the views from above are beautiful. On the way back we visited the rest of the mystical city, getting lost in its winding alleyways and interconnected buildings.

Overall, the location of the site, hidden amongst the surrounding green mountains, is impressive. The constructions, made out of massive rocks fitted one into another and aligned with perfection, are remarkable. Unfortunately the visit itself is rather disorganised, overcrowded and pricey, making the overall experience seem overrated.