Machu Picchu, Peru
Even though we took the horses to the pass on Day 2, I trekked a 1,300 meter descent to reach Ollantaytambo (coolest town ever) and took a train the the foot of Machu Picchu. I then trekked, by myself, for nearly two and a half hours to reach WinaWayna (magical city built into the hills), and another two hours to reach the Sun Gate, the perfect viewing spot for Machu Picchu.
I did it! And I did it all by myself!
We were at a lower elevation on the last day, so I felt like a million bucks. And although the stairs were uneven and steep, I literally skipped from one to the next in utter joy. I saw snails and butterflies and beetles and llamas. I felt the scorching sun on the back of my neck and the cool breeze of the jungle on my face.
I felt complete independence.
What a wonderful rush!