Waynapicchu — on the way down

Henry took some more shots of scenery on his way back to the main Machu Picchu complex with Hernán. Plus they visited a couple of interesting archeological sites—the so-called Temple of the Moon and the "Gran Caverna," or "large cave." The sites are on the north side of the mountain and weren't discovered until the 1930's. Their nomenclature is somewhat confusing, since archeologists have no idea if lunar worship practices occurred at the Temple (however, it is definitely a temple of some sort) and Henry thinks the "large cave" is actually smaller than the one at the Temple.

But what he remembers most clearly about the return trip is that the trail to the sites was very steep (our guide book mentions an average 48% slope!) and the sites are about 1300 feet lower than the summit of Waynapicchu, which puts them considerably below the elevation of the gate to the trail. And this means the last part of a strenuous hike is uphill!

But not to get ahead of ourselves, here are some shots of the hikers and the scenery, still near the top.

And here is Henry, still feeling chipper:

The Temple of the Moon was the first of the sites they saw, and here are two views of its impressive stonework, a great example of the Inka policy of working with the stone as they found it:

Here is a shot of the interior, and one looking out...

Henry believes this picture of the altar-like stone was taken in the "Gran Caverna," and here is a view from the front of this structure.

And here are three more views of this impressive structure:

Here is the sign with the "Gran Caverna's" vitals. Notice the 400 meter difference between its elevation and that of the peak of Waynapicchu.

An assortment of views of the trail ...

And more of those marvelous Inka stairs, that I imagine were starting to get a bit tiresome!

But here on the left is Machu Picchu, getting closer, and the thatch-roofed hut (in the foreground) that marks the end of the trail. Where wife and sister-in-law are waiting with more food! And on the right, a look back up at the structures near the peak.

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All photos, unless otherwise credited, are © by Henry J. Amen III. Please do not use without permission.