Machu Picchu / Inca Trail

Leaving Cusco, we headed into the Urubamba Valley to begin our Inca Trail hike, retracing the traditional pilgrimage route of the Inca while in Peru. We camped for 3 nights while making our way from the Sacred Valley towards the Machu Picchu citadel and city that surrounds it.

Experiencing all types of weather along the way, we passed through various eco-systems as we continuously changed altitude, proving to be a challenge, but offering amazing scenery the entire time.

We hiked with an awesome group and learned a lot about the Inca and their history from our guides, seeing significant artifacts and ruins while crossing mountain passes and river valleys along the way.

Being the off season, we found we hardly came across anyone else, a wonderful contrast from what we would experience at the end of the trail when we finally arrived at Machu Picchu after four days.

Hidden within the lush Peruvian mountains, this mystical city remained a secret for ages and now is the continent’s best known archaeological site.

While some travelers choose to enjoy the views in comfort aboard a train, we chose the more adventurous option of trekking the trail. In the end we were greeted by a breathtaking monument to explore.

The citadel of Machu Picchu lived up to the hype, while the journey there made it really standout among the many things we have experienced during our travels.