Chasing Ruins: Hiking the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu

Day 1

The Inca Trail (El Camino Inca) starts at a trail head commonly known as Kilometer 82 (or Piscacucho). We crossed the mighty Urubamba River, adjusted our packs, bought some walking sticks, and we were on our way. Our first day started in very lush vegetation, but as we ascended deeper into the Andes Mountains, vegetation became scarcer. After a couple of hours of hiking, we encountered the striking ruins  of Patallacta, an ancient guard post and stopping point for the Incas on their way to Machu Picchu.

After about a 6 hour hike, we stopped for the night at our first campsite. The day was very hot and the night was equally cold. Our group sat in the dinner tent until late playing cards, telling stories, and laughing.

Day 2

The next morning we were awoken by our guides at an early hour so we could get a head start on the toughest leg of the hike. They brought muña tea (a delicious minty Andean plant) to our tents. After a quick breakfast, we packed up and left for the next part of our adventure.

The second day happened to coincide with the birthday of one of my classmates, so our thoughtful guides baked a delicious cake for us before we even arrived.

The highest point of the Inca Trail is playfully known as “Dead Woman’s Pass.” It is located at 4,215 meters (13,829 feet) above sea level. For experienced hikers, this altitude may present such a challenge. In fact, most of our guides sprinted past us carrying the tents, cooking equipment, etc. Meanwhile, as we were reaching the top of the mountain, we had to stop every 2-3 minutes as we were struggling to breathe.

One of my friends brought a bag of Andes Mints and he surprised us all by giving us one at the summit. The photo shows everyone eating an Andes Mint in the Andes Mountains.

After stopping for the day for the day, we mustered up what energy we had left to play a spontaneous game of football with the guides and porters. As most of us were exhausted and could not breath, they had the obvious advantage.

Our campsite was absolutely spectacular. We were sleeping on top of a mountain, surrounded by clouds.

Day 3

The next morning was particularly chilly. As we drank our tea, we had remarkable views of the valley below and many of the clouds were below our feet.

The third day was quite gloomy and uneventful. Fortunately, the hiking was not so intense as the day before. We stopped at the lovely ruins of Sayacmarca for a short break.

Day 4

On our last day, we were all exhausted but excited to explore Machu Picchu. During the night, someone stole my walking sticks. There were only 4 hours left, so I did’t think it would be an issue. However, the uneven stone steps destroyed my knees. By the time that we arrived at Machu Picchu my knees were so swollen that I could barely walk and I was in a lot of pain. I didn’t care. Seeing Machu Picchu in the distance made it all worth it.