Where do we start
There is so much to write about my experience in our 4-day, 3-night hike through the beautiful Andean mountains. From the breathtaking views, to the camaraderie built between our 8 passengers and one G Adventures Inca Warrior, to simply detailing how special it was to have porters by our side (or literally hours in front of us) every step of the way.
A lot of G’s
First, I’ll talk a bit about our group because this G trip was a little different from most. We embarked on our hike just days after finishing our first global GX event in Cusco; meaning that our group was actually comprised of all G employees from around the world. Actually, it was all G employees and one solo female traveler from LA who ended up blending with our crazy G clan so quickly and seamlessly. It’s crazy how planting 8 people on a 4-day trip in the middle of the wilderness creates incredible easy connections and friendships.
Thank you to our Inca Warrior
We can’t forget our amazing Inca Warrior, Raúl. He has hiked the Inca Trail over 200 times, at just a ripe age of 34-years-old. His story is inspiring, and he actually developed his love for hiking the Inca Trail when he became a porter at 18-years-old. Something special is that his first porter gig was with G Adventures over 15 years ago. The nature of portering was a lot different back then as was the Inca Traill – way less conservation regulations for the trail or protection for the porters. Raúl detailed to us hardships of being a young man and choosing to porter the trail for greater opportunities down the road; such as saving money or attending university for a better economic situation. Now, Raúl guides G Adventures trips along the Inca Trail. In high season, he said, he will hike the trail with groups 5 or more times per month. He finishes these hikes with a 2 hour bus ride and a 1.5 hour hike back to his home village where he was born and now raises his family. Raúl’s village is in the rural outskirts of Cusco, where Ceuchua is spoken widely [the descending language of the Inca people].
Surviving, no… thriving on the hike
The Inca Trail’s classic 4-day hike is a breathtaking journey through some of Peru’s most captivating landscapes. As you embark on this ancient path, your eyes are captivated by the majestic Andes Mountains that loom overhead and beyond. At many points of the trail, the peaks and sections of the mountains are obscured by misty clouds, lending an air of mystique to the adventure. The vibrant blue sky stretches above, offering a striking contrast to the lush, emerald green rainforest that surrounds you. Trekking along the stone steps painstakingly carved by the Inca civilization centuries ago, you’ll traverse through dense foliage, the forest alive with the calls of exotic birds and the rustle of unseen wildlife. Those that are lucky (or unlucky? may even spot black bears and pumas). Along the trail, you’ll encounter awe-inspiring Inca ruins like Winay Wayna and Phuyupatamarca, each site whispering stories of the empire’s rich history. As you ascend and descend through this enchanting landscape, the combination of nature’s grandeur and ancient human ingenuity creates an unforgettable experience that immerses you in the heart of the Andean wilderness and the fascinating world of the Incas.
A Special Shoutout to Dead Woman’s Pass
As you begin day 2 of the hike, we were immersed in Andean landscape and surrounded by towering peaks and the ever-present greenery of the cloud forest. The trail gradually gains elevation, and we climbed higher and higher as the air grew crisper and thinner. At an elevation of approximately 13,828 feet (4,215 meters), Dead Woman’s Pass is the highest point on the Inca Trail, and the path leading there consists of approximately 1,200 steep and uneven stone steps.
The name “Dead Woman’s Pass” is intriguing and carries historical significance. Most locals will say the name is derived from the shape of the pass, which some believe resembles a supine woman, while others suggest it might be named after the spirits of women who are believed to inhabit the pass. Regardless of its name’s origin, reaching Dead Woman’s Pass felt like an absolute achievement for our entire group.
Where would we be without our porters?
Hiking the Inca Trail with a dedicated team of porters was an incredible experience that made the journey not only possible but also deeply enriching. These remarkable individuals are the unsung heroes of the trail, carrying our camping gear, food, and other essentials on their backs. As we trekked through the challenging terrain, I couldn’t help but admire their strength and resilience. Without them, the Inca Trail wouldn’t be accessible to as many travelers as it is today. It’s astonishing to think that over 1,500 porters hike through the Inca Trail each year, supporting the dreams of adventurers like those that pass through our G Adventures trips. Their presence not only lightens the physical load but also allows us to fully immerse ourselves in the profound beauty and history of this ancient route, knowing that every step is made possible by their dedication and hard work. Hiking alongside these incredible porters was a humbling and unforgettable aspect of the Inca Trail experience, reminding me of the invaluable teamwork and camaraderie that make such adventures possible.
An adventure I’ll remember for years to come
Having the opportunity to the Inca Trail was nothing short of a life-changing adventure. The awe-inspiring landscapes, the rich history of the Inca civilization, and the incredible support of the porters made this experience truly unforgettable. For those considering taking on this remarkable trek, here are a few tips: first, prioritize your physical preparation with regular exercise and altitude acclimatization. Second, plan ahead and secure your permits well in advance, as there are limits on the number of hikers allowed each day. A great option is choosing an adventure provider like G Adventures who has a variety of Inca trips. Third, pack wisely, carrying only the essentials and keeping your load as light as possible. Lastly, embrace the opportunity to connect with fellow trekkers and immerse yourself in the local culture along the way. The Inca Trail is not just a hike; it’s a profound journey of discovery, a chance to push your limits, and an experience that will stay with you for a lifetime. So, seize the opportunity, prepare well, and get ready to embark on an adventure that will leave you with memories to cherish and stories to tell for years to come.
