We had a terrific trek on the Salkantay Trail, and we made it to Machu Picchu despite a strike against Peru Rail. More photos forthcoming, but here is a teaser.
Yesterday, things got more interesting. At mid-day, just as we were returning from Machu Picchu on the main street, a parade of protesters tried to breach the police cordon. The police fired tear gas into the crowd. Katrina, the only active journalist among us at the moment, rushed towards the tear gas! She is withholding her best pictures for publication, but here is a sample.
Our trek guide gathered us together at 7:00 last night. "I have bad news," he began. Not only was the rail strike extended, but neighboring towns were joining in sympathy. Our previous backup plan had been to hike six miles along the railroad tracks to the next town and catch a van for the six hour ride to Cusco. But with the strike spreading, the fear was that the surrounding towns would put up roadblocks, preventing any vans from getting through. So, we agreed on a plan: hike out before dawn this morning in the hope of getting out before any road barriers went up. (As Sophie pointed out, if you are on strike, wouldn't you prefer to sleep in?)
At 5:00 this morning, we hiked out of our hotel, out of town, and down the railroad tracks. We made great time and there was a van waiting for us on the other end. No whining despite the early hour and six miles with everyone carrying double packs. Nice effort by Team Wheelan today.
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