My First View of Machu Picchu was … Nothing

Machu Picchu was nothing like I expected. So vast. So hidden. So misty. So beautiful! After an early start in Aguas Calientes, I take the bus up the mountain to begin the day with Circuit 1 through thick fog and mist. The famous postcard view never fully appeared, but the low clouds created a quiet atmosphere that made the ancient city feel even more mysterious. And eventually, I catch my breath. Next on Circuit 3, the weather mist provides some separations and the majesty of the site comes to life. The mist slowly lifts to reveal the stone terraces, aqueducts, and incredible craftsmanship that have made Machu Picchu one of the world’s most famous archaeological sites. Walking among these massive stone structures, it’s impossible not to wonder how they were built in such a remote location high in the Andes Mountains. After exploring Machu Picchu, I return to Aguas Calientes for one last look around town to point out the ticketing office before we hop back on the bikes. The ride from Aguas Calientes to Santa Teresa delivers some of the best mountain scenery of the entire Peru trip, as the Andes finally reveal their unobstructed heights with sunshine and clearing skies. During my evening recap, I point out the buckets of rain coming down. Luckily it was after our sunshine ride into town. However, it might change the plans for our final day of riding. Stay tuned! Locations: • Machu Picchu • Aguas Calientes • Santa Teresa • Andes Mountains • Cusco Region, Peru Chapters: 0:00 Intro 0:23 Power Outage 0:57 Follow the River 1:55 Drop Off Point 2:05 Let the Stairs Begin 2:40 Misty Mountain Views 4:45 Circuit 3 5:10 Hello From Machu Picchu 5:51 Temple of The Sun 6:07 Granite Precision 7:05 More Precision 7:58 Window Views 7:20 Views for Days 7:32 Preservation Not Restoration 7:45 Window Views 7:58 Sweeping Mountain Mists 8:47 Machu Picchu Wrap-up 9:34 Ticket Office Location 10:21 Andes Mountain Views 11:04 Santa Teresa Peru 11:59 Outro If you’re enjoying the Peru motorcycle series, subscribe for more adventures across Peru and South America. 🎥 4k and filmed entirely on iPhone + DJI Osmo Action 5 🌎 Motorcycle journey through Peru