Have you ever wondered what it would be like to have a whole city to yourself? An entire ancient civilization left for only you to explore? That’s exactly what one tourist got to experience on their trip to Machu Picchu.
It didn’t start out all that lucky for Jesse Katayama. The Japanese citizen travels the world as a boxing coach, but found himself stuck in Peru for seven months due to the spread of coronavirus – SEVEN MONTHS! The dude has had his admission ticket since March, but has made good use of his time by training around the Incan city’s outskirts with his eyes always on the prize.
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Just when it seemed like he would have to head home, Jesse got the green light to enter the historic site with the help of some friends he made along with Peru’s Ministry of Culture. Besides the park’s leaders and a few photographers, our resilient traveler got to experience the full serenity of Peru’s majestic cultural landmark all to himself.
After his long awaited visit, Katayama has announced he will return home on Oct. 16th. He leaves the town of Aguas Calientes with a heavy heart, saying “these seven months have been very special to me. I have discovered a new part of me.”
As for Machu Picchu, the former city will reopen to visitors around the world in November, but at a limited capacity of 30%. At least you won’t have to wait as long as our friend Jesse.