The Adventures of Asher & Journey: Machu Picchu Pueblo

Getting to Machu Picchu is no easy task, First you must fly from Lima to Cusco, then take a bus or train to Ollantaytambo, next the train to Aguas Calientes, also known as Machu Picchu Pueblo. Last you must take a bus up the mountain to reach the Inca ruins.

We had purchased tickets for the train from Cusco to Aguas Calientes. This was supposed to be the last day of the full train service, but when we arrived, SURPRISE! They had decided to stop the train service a day early and put us on a bus to Ollantaytambo instead. It's a beautiful drive.

We spotted these pods on a mountainside. I later learned they are little hotel rooms! More about this in the Ollantaytambo post.

We arrived in Ollantaytambo, then boarded the train to Aguas Calientes, aka Machu Picchu Pueblo. This is a premium train with larger windows and windows along the roof. There is a cheaper train, which we rode on our way back and honestly the difference was hardly noticeable. Then there's the Hiram Bingham, which is the luxury train that comes with a live band and fine china but also with a price tag of $500 for one-way travel!

This had to be one of the most scenic train rides in the world. The train followed the river for much of the trip, and views were spectacular throughout the ride.

They gave us each a snack box and offered tea. I believe the Hiram Bingham riders receive a full meal.

Upon arrival at Machu Picchu Pueblo, we dropped our bags at our hotel, then went for a walk. We chose to stay at Hotel Samanachis for its location on the far end of town overlooking the river. It's very close to the hot springs/public bath, but we decided not to try that. Here's the view from our room.

One of the first birds I noticed in town was this adorable Cinnamon Flycatcher!

We had planned to walk to Mandor and meet up with Jesus, the owner of the tour agency we were using for Manu, but we only made it to the mariposario before things took a sad turn. All of a sudden Asher turned pale, became weak and sick to his stomach. We decided to rest at the mariposario (butterfly garden) and wait for Jesus there. Once he arrived, we birded together while discussing what to expect on our tour into the Amazon Jungle. He took the time to learn more about us and then adjusted the itinerary and even the guide, based on our interests. I love that Eco Peru Tours cares about their clients and customizes their tours to offer the best experience!

I have lost my ability to locate birds by sound since I lost hearing in one ear. I was grateful for the birding time I had with Jesus as he was great at tracking down the birds and getting me on them. He found the Barred Becard (above) and a Gray-breasted Wood-wren (below).

Jesus walked us back to our hotel, pointing out birds along the way- Fasciated Tiger-heron, White-capped Dipper, and their endemic Green-and-white Hummingbird.