Huiñay Huayna

Photo Friday—Huiñay Huayna (Wiñay Wayna)

Taking the opportunity to dig back into archives I came across this wee gem. Huiñay Huayna is a terraced ruin high in the Peruvian cloud forest, just a short walk from the final campsite on the famous Inca Trail.

We had spent three days walking in the rain, choosing to believe the guide when he told us that there was an amazing view just beyond the clouds. However, as yet, had seen no evidence to back this up—just cloud, fog, mist and—just to break the monotony—a little haze. Finally on the last evening the clouds parted and the views revealed themselves. We walked down to the ruins after dark and soaked up the ancient atmosphere under the light of a hundred billion stars.

It isn’t every day that you stand on top of the world under an ancient doorway looking up at the Milky Way and ponder exactly how very insignificant you actually are.

This was definitely a moment to capture on my rain-drenched camera. Although, when you think about it, the doorway and the stars will both still be there long after my photo has disappeared…