It's 5:14 in the morning. I woke up at 3:30am in a mad dash to beat the other groups to the checkpoint. We're third in line, now patiently waiting to flash our passports and begin the final hour and a half to the Sun Gate.
It's dark, but not pitch black - I can make out the silverly clouds that roll into the mountains each night. Various headlamps take turns lighting up and wobbling around. After having the inca trail to ourselves (we stayed half a day ahead of the other groups) it's strange to be surrounded now by so many people. I guess I'll have to get used to it by Machu Picchu and the anticipated 3000 other, 'lazier' visitors.
How do I feel right now, at the cusp of achievement and enlightenment?? A little bored, honestly, and a lot sore. There's a lot of grunting and yelping every time we get up or sit down. But still, it will be worth it in the end. It's worth it even now, despite the various blisters and grueling uphill portions. I found orchids growing in a cloud forest. I viewed snow capped mountains from every angle. I stumbled over a hundreds year old path like so many before me. And soon, soon I will have the best view of the mysterious Incan temple at daybreak.
Onward then, to Machu Picchu!
Katie
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