On a splendid day with the backdrop of Peru’s Sacred Valley, my horse tour began at Hacienda Del Chalan. Together with a spirited group of fellow enthusiasts and our knowledgeable guide, Yojan, we embarked on a journey that promised more than just a scenic ride; it was a trek through history on the backs of the magnificent Peruvian Paso horses.
Starting from Urubamba, our path took us toward Ollantaytambo, following the contours of a mountain that offered us an unparalleled view of the town below. The ancient ruins of Ollantaytambo lay spread out before us, each stone whispering tales of its Inca architects. Yojan, with his profound knowledge of the area’s history, enriched our experience, explaining the strategic layout and significance of the ruins.
Navigating the mountain trail was an adventure in itself. The narrow paths, originally made for hiking, included steps and stones, making it a very interesting horseback ride for we had to manoeuvre each obstacle. The journey led us past an old Inca fortress known locally as the Throwing Stone, because the Incas executed enemies by throwing them from that fortress into the river with their hands and feet tight.
Our destination, the Inca Quarry of Cachiccata, was a highlight of the trip. Here, after a delightful lunch surrounded by the serene beauty of the valley, some of us took the opportunity to hike to the quarry. The path was steep, but the reward was extraordinary: a massive millstone, carved by Incan hands yet never moved, a testament to the ambition and the limitations of the ancient builders.
As we journeyed back, our route veered off the earlier trail, taking us along the slopes of the mountainside. This part of the Sacred Valley was lush and vibrant, a green tapestry that seemed to envelop us with its beauty. On these roads, I galloped with my horse, Indio, which was exhilarating—each stride was powerful yet graceful, giving the sensation of flying across the landscape.
This thrilling experience underscored the adventure that Hacienda Del Chalan promises its visitors. As we neared the end of our journey, the setting sun cast golden hues over the valley, a perfect end to an unforgettable day.
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