Off the side of the trail -- overgrown structures of unknown purpose. Was this a home or guardpost? Food storage? Seemingly no part of these mountains was left untouched or unaltered by the Inca.

Nearing the top -- which we must reach by 12 noon. That's when our permit expires, and the park 'rangers' are very strict about chasing everyone off the mountain exactly on schedule to make room for the afternoon permit. Fortunately, when we get tired, Edwin is ready with a pep talk, and some coca leaves for us to chew (which provide a boost similar to a cup of coffee).