Day 1: Embarking on the Beautiful Inca Trail

Inca Trail Hike (7 hrs for 11km and 350 m/1,148 ft elevation gain)

On a calm morning filled with anticipation, our group gathered at the quaint, yet historically rich town of Ollantaytambo. Nestled within the Sacred Valley, the town was a significant stronghold during the Incan era, its majestic ruins offering a captivating prelude to the ancient stones we’d tread on our impending adventure. The town’s calm demeanor contrasted our bubbling excitement as we loaded up a private bus, destined for KM 82, the renowned starting point of the illustrious Inca Trail.

As our van meandered through the breathtaking vistas that accompanied us on our journey to KM 82, the enormity and the mystique of the Andean landscape began to unfold. The rugged mountains seemed to converse with the skies, while the Urubamba River gushed alongside, narrating tales of a glorious bygone era.

A crew of local G Adventures porters, chefs, and guides took care of all the details for the duration of the hike. Porters carried the majority of our gear so we only needed to carry a small daypack with water, rain gear, snacks, a camera, etc. G Adventures also provided each trekker a bag of snacks for each trekker to carry along the trek.

KM 82

Upon arrival at KM 82, the early morning sun cast a gentle light on the trail ahead, ushering us into a timeless voyage. The murmurs of the bustling trailhead slowly merged with the rhythm of nature as we began our hike towards Wayllabamba Camp. With each step, the essence of the Inca civilization seemed to echo through the valleys, amidst whispers of the cool mountain breeze.

KM 82 to T’arayoc

Our first hiking leg from KM 82 to T’arayoc was a 5km stretch. During that leg of the trek, we came upon the Patallacta Archeological Site.

Patallacta Archeological Site

Before arriving to T’arayoc for our lunch stop we came across the Patallacta archaeological site, sometimes spelled “Llactapata,” is one of the first major Inca sites you’ll encounter on the classic Inca Trail to Machu Picchu. It’s a striking introduction to the ancient wonders that await hikers on this iconic journey. Here’s a brief overview of Patallacta:

1. Location: Patallacta is situated at the confluence of the Cusichaca and Urubamba rivers. As you approach it on the Inca Trail, it offers a panoramic view with its terraces sprawling down towards the river, set against a backdrop of imposing mountains.
2. Purpose: Believed to have been an agricultural and religious center, Patallacta’s layout suggests it was designed for both ceremonial functions and farming. The extensive agricultural terraces were used to grow crops, and the site includes multiple buildings that likely served as housing, storage, and religious spaces.
3. Architecture: The ruins are a fine example of Inca urban planning and construction. The terraced fields, stone structures with trapezoidal doors, and water channels are all typical features of Inca architecture.
4. Abandonment: It’s believed that Patallacta was abandoned before the Spanish conquest, possibly due to an epidemic. When Hiram Bingham, the American explorer, rediscovered Machu Picchu and the Inca Trail in the early 20th century, he also documented Patallacta, although it received less attention than the more famous mountaintop city.

Along the entire way on Day 1, we encountered various homes doubling as mini-rest stops, offering everything from snacks and drinks to the renowned Peruvian Corn Beer and even ice cream bars. It was heartwarming to witness the local commerce and homes seamlessly blending into the trail, catering to trekkers like us. Another unique aspect of the trail was the restroom facilities. While some stops required a nominal payment of 1 sol, our lunch stop and campsite offered free toilets, although bringing your own toilet tissue was a must.

Lunch Break at T’arayoc

Our lunch break was a delightful surprise. The fresh guacamole paired wonderfully with homemade chips, and every bite was an explosion of flavors. Following the appetizer, we were treated to a sumptuous meal of soup, fried fish, rice, and vegetables, with a dessert to conclude the meal. Reenergized and rejuvenated, we set forth for our next destination.

T’arayoc to Wallabamba

The hike from T’arayoc to Wayllabamba, spanning 6km, was particularly intriguing. But the day wasn’t without its challenges. The weather played tricks, turning hotter than we had anticipated. The searing heat took a toll on me, making every step heavier and more taxing. By the time we reached the camp, I was trailing behind, my body yearning for rest.

Thankfully, the camp was well-equipped with both cold and hot showers, priced at 5 and 10 soles respectively. The evening tea was a comforting ritual, accompanied by popcorn and crackers. It provided a moment to relax and reflect on the day’s journey.

Later that night after dinner, our head guide, noticed my exhaustion from the day, discussed our plans for the next day with my husband. The whole time I was worried the guide was going to ask me to hike back to KM 82 on Day 2 instead of trying to finish the trek. But the solution? An early start to Day 2, offering us over an additional hour of head start for trekking in cooler morning temperatures.

Before we even started the trek I knew of this possibility, so my hubby and I had the conversation before we even started that I was willing to do whatever it took to try to finish the trek, so he was able to convince our guide that we would just leave early. I wasn’t the only one who struggled, so two other ladies decided to join us on the early morning crew.

Day 1 on the Inca Trail was a rollercoaster of emotions and physical challenges, but it was also a day of unparalleled beauty and deep-rooted connection with nature and history. I never thought Day 1 would prove to be so difficult on my mind and body; I knew though if I made it to the summit on Day 2, that there was no turning back!

The rain started, as we laid in our tent that night, the day’s fatigue slowly melting away, we knew that this journey was only beginning, and we were ready for whatever lay ahead.

Check out what happened on Day 2 of the Inca Trail!

-S&E