Conquering the Inca Trail: A 2-Day Adventure to Machu Picchu

If you're seeking an unforgettable adventure in Peru, hiking the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu is an experience like no other. With its ancient stone paths, jaw-dropping landscapes, and sense of achievement, it's no wonder why this trek is a bucket-list item for so many travelers. I recently completed the 2-day Inca Trail hike with a close friend, and while it was physically demanding, the views and moments along the way made every step worth it.

Day 1: Starting the Journey from Cusco

Our adventure began with a 3:00 AM wake-up call in Cusco, the historic capital of the Inca Empire. After a quick breakfast, we boarded the train to Aguas Calientes, a charming mountain village nestled at the base of Machu Picchu. The train ride took about an hour, but we hopped off before reaching the Machu Picchu station, starting our trek from the train tracks.

With a private guide leading the way, we began the climb up the Incan Trail immediately. If you're planning to hike this trail, keep in mind that solo treks are not allowed; you must be accompanied by a licensed guide for safety and to enhance your experience. We were prepared for the challenge, but the altitude was a game-changer. Even though I’m used to working out regularly, the high elevation made it difficult to catch my breath at times, especially as we ascended.

The weather was another variable. We started the day in chilly, damp conditions, but within hours, the sun broke through the clouds, heating up the path and making us sweat through layers of clothing. By the end of the day, we were sunburned despite the cool morning, a reminder of the rapidly changing weather in the mountains. The contrast between the cold and hot made it even harder to regulate our pace, but our determination to get to Machu Picchu kept us moving.

The first day's trek was a solid 7 hours of uphill hiking with few rest stops beyond a wooden bench here and there. But the landscape more than made up for it. We passed cascading waterfalls, explored remnants of Incan ruins, and enjoyed sweeping views of the surrounding mountains. At times, the scenery was so stunning it felt like we were walking through a living postcard.

The Final Push

The final stretch of the Inca Trail is famous for its steep incline, but there’s one section that stands out as the ultimate challenge: the notorious “Gringo Killer” stairs. A set of about 300 vertical stone steps, these stairs are more like a bookshelf than a traditional staircase. At times, we had to use our hands to grip the edges of the stone to keep from losing our balance. It was one of the most physically demanding parts of the hike, but the adrenaline kept us going.

Once we made it to the top of the stairs, the most breathtaking view of Machu Picchu finally revealed itself. At this point, we were still about 5 miles from the actual entrance to the UNESCO World Heritage site, but the view from that vantage point was absolutely surreal. Seeing Machu Picchu for the first time, perched high above the valley, made all the effort feel so worthwhile.

The rest of the journey from there was much more manageable, with the final stretch offering beautiful views and the feeling that we were in the home stretch. But the highlight of this part of the hike was the unexpected appearance of an adorable dog. She appeared out of nowhere, following us up the trail, and decided to stay by our side all the way to the entrance of Machu Picchu. It was as if she were our personal tour guide, guiding us to the finish line with a wagging tail and joyful energy. We couldn’t have asked for a better companion to finish this epic trek with.

Day 2: Exploring Machu Picchu and Immersing in Local Culture

After a relaxing evening wandering through the charming, bustling streets of Aguas Calientes, I was already feeling the magic of this place. The town was full of life, with vibrant markets, cozy cafés, and colorful buildings tucked into the lush mountainside. But what really stole my heart were the stray dogs, who seemed to wander around freely, happy to receive affection from any passerby. It was impossible not to fall in love with these friendly pups, each with their own unique personality.

The next morning, we started our second day with a bus ride up to Machu Picchu—this time all the way to the entrance of the site itself. The ride, though brief, was a great opportunity to take in the incredible views of the valley below before stepping into the ancient Incan citadel.

Our fantastic guide then led us through a guided tour of the ruins, covering the second circuit of the site. As we explored the stone terraces, temples, and sacred spaces, we learned about the rich history of Machu Picchu, and how the Incas lived and thrived in this magnificent mountain fortress. The site’s energy was palpable, with each corner telling a different story of the ancient civilization that once called this place home.

One of the most serene moments was seeing alpacas grazing peacefully on the grassy plains of Machu Picchu. Their calm presence among the ruins added to the tranquil atmosphere, making it feel even more like stepping back in time. We spent a lot of time soaking in the beauty of the surroundings, taking photos, and appreciating the careful preservation of this UNESCO World Heritage site.

Unlike the intensity of the previous day’s hike, this day was much more relaxed, with time to absorb the surroundings and learn from our knowledgeable guide. The slower pace was the perfect way to complement the physical challenge of the hike and gave us time to reflect on the incredible journey we had just completed.

After our tour, we returned to Aguas Calientes, where we enjoyed an unforgettable, authentic Peruvian lunch. The local cuisine was a real treat, and we even had the opportunity to try two local delicacies: alpaca and guinea pig. The alpaca was tender and flavorful, while the guinea pig (or cuy, as it's known in Peru) was definitely a unique experience, with a rich taste and crispy skin that added a different texture.

As the afternoon rolled in, we made our way to the train station for our return journey to the Sacred Valley. This was no ordinary train ride, though. We were aboard the Vistadome train, a panoramic car with windows from floor to ceiling, offering stunning views of the Andean landscape as we traveled back. The experience was made even more fun with a traditional Peruvian dance performance by the train attendants, who brought the lively spirit of Peru to life. As if that wasn’t enough, we were treated to a mini fashion show, where the attendants showcased colorful Andean textiles, making it a cultural experience from start to finish.

By the time we arrived back in the Sacred Valley, I felt a deep sense of gratitude for the incredible 2-day adventure we had just experienced. From the stunning hike and breathtaking views to the history and culture of Machu Picchu, it was an unforgettable journey—one I will carry with me for the rest of my life.

A Rewarding Adventure

The journey to Machu Picchu via the Inca Trail is not for the faint of heart, but the rewards are more than worth the effort. It’s a physically demanding experience, especially when factoring in the altitude and unpredictable weather, but the views of ancient ruins, lush forests, and majestic mountains along the way create a sense of wonder and awe. Reaching Machu Picchu, gazing out at the Inca ruins and surrounding mountains, and being greeted by an unexpected and loyal canine companion made it all feel like something out of a dream.

If you're considering an adventure travel experience that combines history, nature, and physical challenge, the Inca Trail is a must-do. It may be tough, but the sense of accomplishment when you reach Machu Picchu will leave you feeling on top of the world.

Ready for your own Inca Trail adventure? Make sure to come prepared for both the physical and mental challenges, and you'll be rewarded with a journey you'll never forget.