They mean something, but no one knows exactly what. Still, their presence in such a beautiful collaboration between man and nature causes goosebumps. I doubt if Machu Picchu would be anywhere near as striking if it stood beside the highway in the valley of the Rio Urubamba. Instead, it was hidden in a hanging valley of its own and not discovered until 1911, a situation that adds immeasurably to its aura. A cable car to the top has been proposed.
Purists hate the idea.
Before boarding a bus, most visitors ride the train from Cuzco, about 75 miles away and 3,000 feet higher than Machu Picchu. Aguas Calientes and then all aboard the motor coaches. No matter how they get there, all emerge to see that same incredible vista stretching across approximately 70 acres. I was still in a state of wonder when a few weary backpackers huffed and puffed over the last few yards of Inca Trail. They congratulated themselves for completing the journey and for picking a brilliant day to see the ruins.