You step off the plane at Cusco Airport and can feel the excitement building as you take your first steps onto the sacred land of the Incas.
You're about to embark on a journey to one of the most magical places in the world,
Machu Picchu.
As you arrive at the train station you feel butterflies in your stomach.
You've been anticipating this moment for weeks and now it's finally here.
You make your way through the bustling crowds,
Your eyes scanning the platform for the iconic train that'll take you to Machu Picchu.
You can hear the low rumble of the train as it comes to a stop and you feel your heart beat faster.
The blue and gold paint seems to gleam in the sunlight and you can see the steam rising from the engine.
You step onto the train and are surrounded by elegance and comfort.
The interior is adorned with warm earthy tones and rich wood accents creating a cosy and inviting feel.
The seats are embellished with soft fabric with intricate patterns inspired by Peruvian culture.
As you make your way to your assigned seat the plush cushioning and ample legroom offers a relaxing space to settle in for the journey.
As the train sets in motion the gentle sway and the distant whistle create a soothing symphony that lulls you into a peaceful state of mind.
The train hugs the edge of deep canyons giving stunning views of the landscape.
You watch as the mist rises from the valleys shrouding the mountains in a veil of ethereal beauty.
As the train picks up speed you gaze up at the glass roof marvelling at how it allows an unobstructed view of the passing scenery.
The sky above is a brilliant blue dotted with fluffy white clouds that seem close enough to touch.
Through the glass you can see the towering peaks of the Andean mountains reaching up to the sky,
Their jagged ridges kissed by wisps of clouds.
You catch a glimpse of a waterfall cascading down the rocky face of a cliff and you're astonished at the natural beauty.
You notice that the train begins to slow down and soon you see a small cluster of stone huts on the side of the track.
You realise the train is stopping to drop off local school children.
As the train comes to a halt you watch in admiration as the children gather their backpacks and wave goodbye to their classmates.
You see their families waiting for them and you smile as you watch the joy on their faces at being reunited.
The children's families turn to wave at the train and you wave back feeling a connection to the community around you.
As the train begins to move again you lean back in your seat reflecting on the simple beauty of this moment.
Eventually the train slows to a stop and you prepare to disembark.
As you step off the train into Aguas Calientes you're struck by the ebullience of the town.
The streets are lined with colourful buildings and lively restaurants with the Urubamba river running through its centre.
The sound of rushing water can be heard and you see the river's rushing rapids as you walk along its banks.
Despite its small size Aguas Calientes is a hub of activity with tourists from all over the world milling about the narrow streets.
As you explore further you admire the mix of traditional Andean architecture and modern conveniences giving it a unique and charming character.
You see a group of porters carrying large bags up the steep hills that surround the town.
You're impressed at their strength and endurance as they climb the hills with ease,
Their colourful ponchos and hats a bright contrast against the terrain.
You watch as they navigate the steep steps and narrow paths,
Their feet moving with a graceful ease that only comes from years of experience.
As you follow the porters up the hills you find yourself struggling to keep up.
You take a few moments to rest enjoying the breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
After a challenging journey you arrive at your hotel.
You step into the lobby where you're greeted by the warm smiles of the hotel staff who welcome you with open arms and offer you a refreshing drink.
The room is spacious and well appointed with classic decor and modern amenities that make you feel right at home.
You take a few moments to unpack your bags and refresh yourself enjoying the quiet solitude of your room and the soothing sounds of the nearby river.
