The mountain next to Machu Pichu is Wayna Picchu. Every day, only 300 people are permitted to hike. Unfortunately, by the time we got there it was closed.

This stone leaned exactly 13.5 degrees, which is the exact latitude south of the Equator. There were many such unique examples of how the Incas probably had a deep understanding of science, seasons and astronomy, which the modern name learnt only in recent years comparatively.

The Temple of the Condor in Machu Picchu is a breathtaking example of Inca stonemasonry. A natural rock formation began to take shape millions of years ago and the Inca skillfully shaped the rock into the outspread wings of a condor in flight.

On the floor of the temple is a rock carved in the shape of the condor's head and neck feathers, completing the figure of a three-dimensional bird. Historians speculate that the head of the condor was used as a sacrificial altar.

Separated into three areas - agricultural, urban, and religious - the structures are arranged so that the function of the buildings matches the form of their surroundings. The agricultural terracing and aqueducts take advantage of the natural slopes; the lower areas contain buildings occupied by farmers and teachers, and the most important religious areas are located at the crest of the hill, overlooking the lush Urubamba Valley thousands of feet below.

A number of lamas grazed around Machu Pichu without being bothered by the tourists. This one even posed for us!

Last sight of Machu Pichu, definately one of the top highlights of our S. America trip.