I remember how it all started. One day I simply mentioned the idea of hiking the Inca trail with a friend while in Spain. Almost two years later and we were doing it. I took good time planning and making reservations, doing research and getting in shape. This is one experience I will never forget and always cherish but it was definitely difficult!!
We took the most popular route which is about the length of a marathon, which sounds like not a lot to take on over four days but after two mountain passes and several thousand feet in elevation gain and loss IN STAIRS, by the fourth day I was stiff and sore beyond belief. Our journey started by a pick up from our hostel at 4am. After a very rough van ride along a narrow dirt road and breakfast we were off.
Machu Picchu is the largest of the ruins along the Inca trail but there are several other large ruins that were amazing to see as well. The first is pictured above. We packed our provided snacks and hit the trail for about four hours before we hit our lunch break spot. During lunch we would relax and refill on water before our multiple course meal. The food provided on the trail was amazing and all prepared with no live fire! After lunch we hiked for four or more hours before we set up camp and had dinner.
Our group was made up of five women, a fantastic Peruvian guide named Freddy, a chef, and ten porters.
We saw several Alapaca and Llamas along the way. After a certain point in the trail horses are no longer allowed because of how rough their hooves are on the original stone of the trail. For this reason, llamas and alpacas are used.
This shot was taken on our last night before we headed for the final site of Machu Picchu. This is our entire group other than our guide who was the photographer for this shot. The last full day was the shortest. We explored, relaxed, and prepared for an extremely early morning to line up before we entered the national park. Upon entering the park it was a crowded two hour hike while watching the sunrise. It was definitely a bit emotional.
After seeing this view, it was definitely worth every step!! When this site was rediscovered they did not know its name and that is why it was called Machu Picchu which is actually the name of one of the mountains in the vicinity. The sharp peak in this photo above is Wayna Picchu. We payed for an extra ticket in advance to climb this insanely steep and scary peak.
From the very top of the peak, Machu Picchu seems so small! That is it to the left of me.
After the scariest part, the descent, we headed back to Cusco by bus and train.
