What could have been a better way to conclude my Around the World hunt for great hikes than hiking ‘the trail of all trails’ aka ‘the best hike in the world’: the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu? Coming in with a ton of impressions from my adventures in Chile, it was good to have two days of acclimatizing in yet another adventure capital: the city of Cusco, located in the Andean mountains of Peru.

With good help from ‘Pachamama‘ (Mother Earth), the 4-day, 43 km long hike through stunning Andean jungle and mountain scenery, along a series of ancient Inca ruins, ending at the most famous of them all, did deliver.

Despite some minor challenges with the altitude, hiking this world-famous trail was easier than expected, and definitely exceeded my expectations. I was afraid of hiking into a tourist trap and being faced with all kinds of mass tourism symptoms. I was not. Access to the Inca Trail is limited in time and numbers. The trail is well facilitated and well maintained.

I guess you have to do some research in picking your tour operator. I was highly impressed by my local Peruvian guides and even more so by the 18 local Quechuan porters who did a totally baffling effort in carrying equipment, preparing camp and great dinners, and who always made sure we had a safe and unforgettable experience in this beautiful corner of the world. It was just all very well organized. Standing at the Sun Gate at dawn, being among the first visitors of the day to explore Machu Picchu is priceless.

It felt surreal and a privilege to be able to explore and witness this world’s wonder with my own eyes. If you have the chance, I can warmly recommend buying access to and hiking Huayna Picchu, giving you even more spectacular views of Machu Picchu.