Title: Turn Right at Machu Picchu: Rediscovering the Lost City One Step at a Time
Author: Mark Adams
First published June 30, 2011
333 pages, Hardcover
ISBN: 9780525952244 (ISBN10: 0525952241)
Rating: 3.85
Overview
Join Mark Adams, a travel magazine editor with no real adventure experience, as he embarks on a journey to retrace the steps of Hiram Bingham III and uncover the truth behind the allegations against him. Adams sets off to explore the ancient city of Machu Picchu through the breathtaking Andes Mountains of Peru, with the help of a grumpy Australian survivalist and a group of Quechua-speaking mule tenders.
Along the way, he encounters fascinating characters and discovers the hidden gems of Peru, from the Inca capital of Cusco to the mysterious ruins of Vitcos and Vilcabamba. With vivid descriptions and engaging storytelling, Turn Right at Machu Picchu is a thrilling adventure that will leave you questioning everything you thought you knew about this lost city in the clouds.
Editoral Review
In his immersive travel memoir, Turn Right at Machu Picchu: Rediscovering the Lost City One Step at a Time, Mark Adams takes readers on a breathtaking journey through the highlands of Peru. First published on June 30, 2011, the book is a fascinating blend of travelogue, history, and adventure.
Adams, a seasoned travel writer for magazines such as National Geographic Adventure and GQ, approaches the daunting task of retracing the steps Hiram Bingham III took in 1911 with both awe and humor. Turn Right at Machu Picchu tells the story of Adams journey to Machu Picchu, the lost city of the Incas, which was rediscovered in the early 20th century by Bingham, a Yale archaeologist.
Through his travels, Adams encounters a colorful cast of characters, from local Quechua villagers to fellow tourists and guidebooks. Amidst the stunning Andean landscape, he uncovers the secrets and mysteries of Machu Picchu and learns about the Inca civilization, its religion, and its culture.
Tackling the rugged terrain, Adams breathlessly scales mountains, navigates perilous paths, and wades through murky rivers. The books historical significance lies in its imaginative retelling of Hiram Binghams story, a man who is often credited with the discovery of the lost city.
Adams, however, paints a more nuanced picture of the events, which reveals the role of local people in the rediscovery, as well as the darker side of Binghams impact on the area. Adams also explores the current state of the Inca Trail, its environmental impact, and the politics of tourism in the region.
His observations are astute, and he demonstrates a deep understanding of the complexities involved. Turn Right at Machu Picchu is a beautifully crafted work of both history and travel writing.
Adams prose is elegant and descriptive, bringing the stunning landscape of Peru to vivid life. His characterizations of the people he meets are richly drawn and often humorous.
The pacing is perfect, with the narrative flowing smoothly from one adventure to the next. All of this creates an immersive reading experience that is hard to put down.
The books only weakness is that it is heavily focused on the authors experiences and journey, and less on deep analysis of Incan culture or Machu Picchu itself. Additionally, while Adams description of the local people and traditions is informative and respectful, there is a sense of some outsiders simply viewing traditional cultures as exotic rather than fully exploring what they mean.
Overall, Turn Right at Machu Picchu is an excellent book for anyone interested in travel, history, or adventure. Fans of Bill Bryson or Jon Krakauer will find much to enjoy here.
Adams writes with a sense of wonder and adventure that is infectious, and his love for Peru and its history shines through on every page. It is a pleasure to read about his journey and learn more about Machu Picchu and the people and customs of the region.
All in all, a brilliantly written account that successfully unites history and adventure in a way that will keep readers engaged from beginning to end. For anyone planning a trip to Peru or those with an interest in archaeology, travel, or Incan history, Turn Right at Machu Picchu is a must-read.
The book earns a score of 4 out of 5, and the Washington Post wholeheartedly recommends it.
