After a few days in Cusco enjoying the lively social scene I was ready for some fresh air and exercise. Not really sure what conditions to expect on the Inca Trail I did what all good travellers do, I got myself down to the market and bought some cheap waterproofs plus a pair of hiking boots. In hindsight I would have bought some more expensive, breathable waterproofs as the constant downpours were mixed in with some extreme humidity.
Bleary Eyed Travellers
Early the next morning with the sun barely up I found myself on a minibus with thirteen other bleary eyed travellers who were to be my companions for the duration of the four day trek. I was pleasantly surprised by the mix of people and after two days of hiking we were having good fun despite the sometimes hard going trail and heavy rainfall. I was glad that I had acclimatized myself to the altitude somewhat by spending a few days in Cusco as a few people in the group were struggling and come day three, the tough day, one of our group had to turn back.
Having travelled extensively I know that my trips are more about the people I meet than the sights I see. After the third day of the hike I’d had a pleasant time, seen some nice views and felt fit and healthy for all the walking. If you had asked me then if I would recommend the hike I would have said ‘yes it’s a great trip with some nice sights and I had a lot of fun with my group’. That was before day four.
Machu Picchu Trek Day 4
Day four started at the ungodly hour of 4am with rolling up my sleeping bag and packing away my things by torchlight. The guide told us we needed to get Machu Picchu before all the tourists who come for a day trip on the train. After a couple of hours of hiking a tired tour group started to climb up a path which would lead to the holy site of Machu Picchu. I wasn’t prepared for what I would see. Finally getting to the top of the mountain path we turned a corner and were suddenly looking down on the lost City. It was simply breathtaking, a site I will never forget. I would try and explain it to you but it is something you must see yourself.
Relaxing in Agua Caliente
After slumming it for four days I spent the remainder of the day and that night in Agua Caliente a nearby town. This was a great decision as after spending a few hours in the hot springs my dinner was fresh fish from the trout farm and I then spent a relaxing night watching a movie in one of the laid back backpackers.
If you are visiting Peru on your travels the Inca Trail is a must do but book ahead as places do get booked up many months in advance.
Photo by markg6
