Nara, Japan.....

March 2017 

Roaming deer who love a cracker. 

Jardin, Colombia

29.01.13

I spent four days in ´Jardin´ a beautiful little town not far from Medellin. Its not in the guide books so not many people know about this place. It was really refreshing to see no other tourists or souvenir shops. My Belgium friend joined me for a few days and with a couple of locals we ventured up-river to a waterfall in a cave. Climbing over rocks and wading waist deep in water, it was certainly a mini adventure. 

We also got a chance to walk through a tunnel which a local guy, Darrio built with his bare hands. It took him three years to build working all through the night and is quite extraordinary to see. There are grand doors to the opening with hand carved stones that Darrio made. There are also two archways inside so you can look out across the river. Why he made the tunnel, I have no idea, the locals think his loco! If your in Jardin and want to take a look, ask for Darrio in town...watch out for the bats. 

17th Nov Machu Picchu 4 day trek

Day 1 of our trek started in Ollantaytambo having breakfast before passing the Vilcanota River. It was a relatively easy day of 12km of hiking. We spent the night at Wayllabamba. Day 2 was tough! Climbing from Wayllabamba to Pacamayo (12km) all up-hill. We passed steepening woods and spectacular views. The highest pass on the trail ´Dead Woman´s Pass´was 4,200m exposing us to sorching sun and freezing winds. 

Day 3 was the longest, hiking 16km from Pacamayo to Winay Wayna. Passing through cloud forests and inca ruins the views were incredible. My favorite day so far. 

Day 4 was an early start of 3.30AM trekking from Winay Wayna up to the sungate to see the first glimpse of Machu Picchu through the misty clouds. Finally, we made our decent down to Machu Picchu arriving around 7AM and almost collapsing with exhaustion! 

´Peru Treks´ were a fantastic company to trek with. Amazing food, wonderful guides and hats off to the porters who practically run the trail whilst carrying around 20kg on their backs.