People always said the Inca Trail was one of those once-in-a-lifetime things—something that sticks with you. And that’s exactly what pushed us to dive headfirst into this crazy beautiful ride. We wanted to live every step together and tick off that dream of seeing Machu Picchu in a different, more real way.
When we found out the classic Inca Trail takes four full days, our vibe dropped a bit—we didn’t have that much time, and we wanted to see more of Peru. But there was no way we were gonna miss out. Lucky for us, we hit up CuscoPeru.com and boom—there it was: a two-day version, just as dope! We didn’t overthink it—booked it on the spot.
So, what hit us the hardest? What spots left our jaws on the floor? And for real—was getting to Machu Picchu through the Inca Trail really that next-level? Here’s the unfiltered truth: what we felt, what shook us, and why this trip’s now inked on our souls.
Just like the agency told us, we got to Cusco a few days early to acclimate—‘cause altitude sickness can hit like a truck. And good thing we did. The city welcomed us with open arms—history in every corner, perfect weather, and the agency’s crew treated us like queens from the jump.
The day before we hit the trail, Efraín—one of the legends at CuscoPeru—got us together to break it all down. He gave us the full itinerary, told us exactly what to pack (keep it light, seriously—the trail doesn’t play), and gave off this chill vibe that instantly made us feel at home. We were ready. Hearts pounding like carnival drums.
By 4 AM we were up, groggy faces and all. But yeah, heading out early was key to dodging that brutal sun later on. And trust—it was the right call.
Our guide and driver showed up on time like clockwork, and off we went to catch the train at Ollantaytambo. The early morning cold in Cusco hits deep—it wakes your whole soul—but we were bundled up just enough, just like they told us. The ride was chill, half-asleep convos, but the hype was real. You could feel something big coming.
We got there super early and the chill had already started to fade. The station welcomed us with that crisp mountain air, and the sky started throwing color like a painting. Total postcard moment. We hopped on the Vistadome train—with those huge windows—and settled in, buzzing with a mix of nerves and excitement. The view? Straight out of a movie: fairytale mountains, the river winding through, and in the distance, the snowcapped La Verónica—left us speechless.
We got off the train and the jungle wrapped around us. Green everywhere, thick humid air, and that constant sound of the Urubamba River holding it all down. We crossed a wooden bridge and made it to the checkpoint where you sign in. Mandatory photo with the Inca Trail sign—seriously, if you do this trip, that pic is a must.
And that was it. Packs on our backs, sneakers ready, and hearts pounding outta our chests.
Five minutes into the hike, boom—our first archaeological site: Chachabamba. Rómulo told us it was a purification stop for travelers on their way to Machu Picchu. It wasn’t just a pile of ruins—it was sacred ground. That’s when it hit us: we were literally walking in the footsteps of the Incas. Mind-blowing stuff.
One of the trippiest moments was connecting with nature. There were stretches where the jungle literally swallowed you up—it felt like walking through a green tunnel that spat you out a few meters ahead. We climbed these ancient stone steps that, according to Rómulo, were laid down by the Incas themselves, centuries ago. Every single step felt alive with history.
And the best part? Our guide took the most epic pics. He didn’t rush—he’d find your angle, frame the shot, and make you feel like you were on a National Geographic shoot. Total legend.
With the sun blazing down, stumbling across the Phuyuwachi waterfall was like hitting an oasis in the desert. Pure, glorious relief. We sat in the shade, letting the sound of the water wash over us like a mantra. We chilled, we chatted, we snapped way too many pics. It was a treat for the body—and the soul.
After about four hours of hiking, we reached Wiñayhuayna—and honestly, we didn’t know where to look first. Inca terraces, lush green everywhere, wildflowers popping like confetti—it all looked way too perfect to be real.
Rómulo told us this place used to be a major agricultural center, and you can only get to it if you’re on the Inca Trail. It felt like we’d unlocked some secret spot—like finding a hidden bar that only locals know about.
We had lunch there, chatted, recharged. The biggest moment was just around the corner.
An hour and a half later, we made it to the Sun Gate—Intipunku. And that’s when the tears hit. From there, you get your first glimpse of Machu Picchu. And let me tell you—no pic or video can prep you for that moment. It was right there. Massive. Magical. Real.
We hugged, cried a little (yeah, no shame), and snapped the classic photo. It was one of those turning-point moments—you know the kind you’ll retell a thousand times.
We took the bus down to Aguas Calientes, that little town that lives and breathes Machu Picchu. Yeah, it’s small—but it’s got big vibes. We hit the hotel, chilled for a bit, then wandered the streets, surrounded by backpackers and the smell of pure adventure.
That night, we fell asleep still buzzing—because the next day was the cherry on top: stepping inside Machu Picchu and climbing Huayna Picchu.
We were up before dawn (again), but every yawn was worth it. Being among the first to enter Machu Picchu felt like a gift. Almost empty, soft mist rolling in and a silence so thick it felt sacred. We explored every corner—the Temple of the Sun, the Temple of the Three Windows, and every stone that seemed to speak us.
And then… Huayna Picchu. This is where it got wild. The climb is beautifully brutal—it takes everything you’ve got. Some parts are so steep the altitude literally knocks the wind outta you—and not just from the climb. But once you reach the top… girl, that view is from another world. You’ve got all of Machu Picchu laid out at your feet. Pure magic. No price tag can touch it.
Back in Aguas Calientes, legs shaking but hearts full, we couldn’t stop talking about everything we’d just lived. Each of us had our favorite moment, but we all agreed on one thing: it was unforgettable.
CuscoPeru.com absolutely crushed it—guide, logistics, warmth. Rómulo, our amazing guide, carved out a special spot in our hearts. If you’re thinking about doing this trip, don’t even hesitate. Do it. Live it. And if you can, make it the Inca Trail. There’s no better way to arrive at Machu Picchu.
Heads-up, fellow travelers!
No question—reaching Intipunku. That view is everything.
Wiñayhuayna and Huayna Picchu take the crown. One for the secret vibes, the other for the insane views.
Hell yes! Even if your body’s screaming, the reward makes it all worth it.
No doubt. We felt safe, seen, and supported—like they’d known us forever. Gracias totales for helping us live one of the greatest adventures of our lives.
Happy passengers
