We took a short bus ride from Machu Picchu to the small town of Machupicchu Pueblo. From here, the train would take us back to Cusco. But first it was time for a beer. Never mind that it was only 10 a.m. Time is an abstract concept.
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Our fellow hikers, G and P, headed off to nearby Aguas Caliente, a nearby hot springs. Julia and I toured the town. Julia had been looking for condors during the entire hike, but we didn't see one until we got to town. The guys on top at Dead Woman's Pass said that we had just missed one.
As you might expect, the town is very touristy, being the gateway to Machu Picchu. However, the natural setting is spectacular.
We met for a late lunch with G, P, and Freddy. I really enjoyed this time for relaxed socializing. Freddy was much less formal--now that the hike was over, and he didn't have to worry about our well-being. He shared some good stories, including the time that some guests invited him to participate in an Ayahuasca ceremony.
Eventually, it was time for us to catch our afternoon train. Freddy got a well-earned tip from the four of us. There were lots of enthusiastic hugs and handshakes.
The train was comfortable. We enjoyed the scenery through the windows while it was still daylight. When darkness came, we passed time with a Portuguese couple sitting opposite to us. The ice was broken in an unusual way.
They had also completed the Inca Trail but as part of their honeymoon. During the train trip, her engagement ring had slipped off her finger to the floor. We all got down on our hands and knees to search. Julia came up with the big rock. They were a delightful couple, sharing stories about Portugal and asking us lots of questions about America.
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| Masks required on trains |
The train arrived late to Cusco. Our tour company rep was waiting with a van to take us to our hotel. We stayed up to take long showers but quickly fell to sleep afterwards. The next day would be a free day on our own, and then it would be time to fly back to Lima.
