April 16, 2024
Trekking Through Time: My Journey on Peru's Inca Trail
By: Juan Camilo from Wonder
Welcome to a detailed recount of my incredible journey on the Camino del Inca, a demanding trek in Peru that started at the historic city of Cusco. Over the course of four days, I embarked on a 42-kilometer expedition to the majestic Machu Picchu, backed by a fantastic team of local guides who ensured a seamless and enriching experience.
Day 1: Setting Out from Cusco
- Preparation and Departure: Our adventure began with a 1.5-hour drive to Ollantaytambo, the starting point of our hike. Here, we unloaded our gear, preparing for the days ahead.
- Entering the Inca Trail: At the base of the trail, we registered at the national park entrance. It’s crucial to book these permits well in advance due to limited capacity.
- The Challenge Begins: Each of us took responsibility for our personal belongings that we would carry throughout the trek. The rest, including tents, food, and additional equipment, was managed by our porters. These incredible individuals carry up to 25 kg each and still outpace most hikers!
- First Kilometers and Climate: The trek started under the warm sun, but as we ascended, it quickly became cooler.
Our first major stop was at Huicaracay. Surrounded by relics of Inca and pre-Inca civilizations, every stone and pathway held the weight of history and the memories of an iconic era.
As night fell, we arrived at our campsite, surrounded by clear skies and stars. Thanks to our porters and the chef, Gregorio, what could have been a simple sleeping spot transformed into a cozy haven, with a dining setup that looked like a rustic field restaurant, positioned in the wild Andes mountains.
Day 2: The Ascent Intensifies
- Early Morning Challenges: The second day was the toughest, beginning with a cold and rainy morning. We ascended from 3,600 meters to 4,200 meters. This part of the trail is often where hikers decide if they can continue due to the altitude.
- Segmentation of Hikers: To manage the pace and ensure everyone's safety, our group was divided based on ability and stamina. I chose to push ahead, facing heavy rain and biting cold in darkness.
- Reaching Camp Two: By the end of the day, we had completed the most challenging part of the trail, and despite the long hours and harsh weather, the sight of distant snow-capped mountains made it all worthwhile.
Day 3: A Glimpse of Civilization
- A Softer Pace: The third day offered a bit of a break, with only a half-day walk to the next camp. This shorter trek allowed us to enjoy a leisurely lunch at our campsite.
- Cultural Insights: We passed through more terraced Inca ruins and even caught a small glimpse of civilization with nearby settlements and llamas.
- One of the highlights of our day was hearing the distant train to Machu Picchu, a surreal reminder of the outside world, blending beautifully with our immersive jungle experience and making it clear that we were just a few hours away from our sought-after destination.
Day 4: Arrival at Machu Picchu
- Sunrise at Sun Gate: The final day began at 3 AM, ensuring we were among the first at the Sun Gate to witness the breathtaking sunrise over Machu Picchu.
- Exclusive Entry: Unlike standard tourists, our group entered through a separate path, accessing exclusive terraces that offered unique perspectives of the ruins.
- Optional Climb of Huayna Picchu: After walking around the World Heritage Site of Machu Picchu, some of us decided on a new challenge, climbing the steeper Huayna Picchu. Probably the hardest, but most rewarding ascent I’ve ever done in my life, and the perfect way to finalize our trek.
Reflections on the Inca Trail
This trekking trip was not just a physical challenge; it was a deep exploration into the heart of Inca history, supported by an extraordinary team of local experts. The camaraderie among hikers, combined with the expertise of our guides and porters, made this a once-in-a-lifetime adventure.
Final Thoughts
If you’re considering the Inca Trail, prepare for both its demands and its rewards. This trek is a profound reminder of the endurance of human history and the beauty of human cooperation.
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