I left Cusco by the tourist train, reaching Aguas Calientes mid-day. I found a hotel, explored the town, and soaked in the hot springs.
This incredibly wild river has the greatest sustained gradient I've ever seen - this picture is right below the town, you can see some of the buildings.
In the AM I went out and caught the first bus and reached the gates of Machu Picchu as they opened at 7:00. I sped across the site, getting a few panoramic views without people in them.
Light starting to bathe the site.
Looking back from far end of the city.
Notice the snowy peaks trying to show in background - I saw little of them as it was the rainy season when I was there.
Huaynapicchu is the razor sharp peak at the east end of the site - I clibed it early while it was still cool, though I was soaked in sweat by the time I got to the top!
The Huaynapicchu trail goes up the left (darker) face.
Note Temple of the Sun in center
