Achieving a boyhood dream

I don't remember it's title, call it "Explore the World"; a boy's book about fascinating places around the world. One was Machu Picchu and it caught my imagination as a young boy. Built high in the Andes, in an inaccessible place, with priceless treasures discovered and constructed of giant stones shaped so perfectly no mortar was required. Who built it? Why? How could it be possible without modern machinery? Or was it divine intervention?

It was the perfect draw for a young boy thirsty for knowledge and open to the wonders of the world. And so began a lifetime ambition to go and see it for myself. Achieved on 17th April 2022, Easter Sunday, some 40+ years later.

I confess to some excitement, held back by concerns that my expectations might be too high and I would be disappointed. It had taken some effort, even in modern times. I was already 6000 miles from the UK, which was accounted for by at least two flights, another to Cusco, and a 3-hour bumpy bus ride to Ollantaytombo via the Sacred Valley. The group I was with set off at 5.45, walking to the train station at first light to catch a train for the 1.5-hour journey to the nearest town (Agus Calientes ) from which we would take yet another bus up to the site itself. The train journey was spectacular. Through deep valleys capped with white peaks, along a ferocious winding river and an increasingly lush wilderness which eventually merges to become the Amazon forest, dotted with ancient Inca settlements.

Arriving at the site, just a glimpse was possible as our guide led us up to the high platform overlooking Machu Picchu. Emerging, the view was spectacular. Sunlight flooded the ruins, and clouds hugged nearby peaks covered in lush forest. The views were breathtaking, swamping the eye in all directions. Wow! We were on top of the world, and it was all that was promised and more.

Terraces graced the mountain's sides with buildings and temples set around the central plaza. We traced well-worn steps, pausing to take in the sights rather than just snapping what would be misrepresentative photos.

Yes, it was well worth the journey, and so far, it goes directly to my world number 1. Make an effort; no film or photo will ever do it justice.

Martin