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Getting Underway...It didn't take long after we piled out of the van at KM 82 for the porters to load up our duffels and gear and head off. This left us to hoist our day packs and head across the railroad tracks and down along the river to the control point. I understand that there used to be a sling and pulley contraption to cross the river here but there is now a pedestrian suspension bridge. >>> The 'Before' picture as we start our trek. From the left: JB, Susan, Cindy, Rina, Rupa (kneeling), Branca, Mauro (kneeling), Josh, and Yugi. |
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While Mauro (our guide) had all the required paperwork for the trail we each had to
sign in. (Personal note: one of the bits of information required in the log book is your
age... This did two things - prevented telling any lies; and, confirmed that I was in fact
at least 10 years older than anyone else in the group!) <<< The view from the bridge at the trailhead down the Urubamba valley. We went thataway...
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| You pass some settlements along the morning's walk, including one that the guide that
had described as having 'persistent begging children'! There were a few kids about but I
don't think they were any more persistent than others I'd seen... Branca (being from
Australia) was prepared for this kind of thing and handed out miniature toy koala's until
they ran out - a great idea and a great alternative to candy... >>> Unknown kind of flowers along the trail... one of many beautiful wildflowers we came across... |
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Beautiful weather held throughout the morning and the trail was pretty clear except at one point where you apparently veer off the main trail and head up a valley at one of the small settlements. The walking was easy as well until you head up to the plateau at which you overlook the ruins at Patallacta. |
- The Inca Trail
Day One