NOVEMBER 23 - The Inca Trail hike to Machu Picchu was physically challenging but worthwhile. We started the trail just outside of Ollantaytambo at kilometer 82, and hiked 26 miles over 4 days reaching elevations of 13,776 feet. Along the way, we passed small ruins and awe-inspiring scenery. On the fourth day, we climbed the steps to the Sun Gate and caught our first view of Machu Picchu.
The hike was easily the most grueling thing I've ever done mainly because of the altitude sickness. Some of the symptoms we experienced were fatigue, shortness of breath, pins and needles in our fingers and loss of appetite. In fact, Rob lost 10 pounds on what we now call the Inca Trail diet. Lose 10 pounds in 4 days! Thankfully we had amazing porters who carried all of our camping equipment. They packed up our stuff after we left for the hike every morning. Then they would pass us on the trail, and have our tents set up by the time we arrived at the campsite. They also cooked delicious 3-course meals for lunch and dinner which were served in a dining tent complete with folding tables and chairs. We felt really spoiled.
This is a view of the trail from our campsite.
Machu Picchu with Wayna Picchu towering in the background. The site is situated in a valley above the Urubamba River.
I posted more photos, but they don't really do it justice. http://www.flickr.com/photos/ningyang1/sets/72157611141354937/
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