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.

 

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Around the World

Chile - Drive & Hike

Around the World

Based on travel & hiking advice from my guiding company’s guests, I travelled around the world in 6 weeks to find the best hiking locations.

Chile – Drive & Hike

Driving through the varied Chilean scenery, I hiked Conguillo National Park, Altos del Lircay National Reserve, and Pan de Azucar National Park.

Pucón – Chile

Pucon is the adventure capital of Chile. I hiked Jurassic Park-like Huerquehue National Park, rafted the Rio Trancure, and climbed Villarica Volcano.

New Zealand

The country of adrenaline adventure. Caving at Waitomo Caves, climbing Mount Taranaki and skydiving in Taupo. Plus a range of hidden gems. I ♥ NZ.

Overland Track

According to the Visitor Guide: “The Overland Track is an extraordinary journey through the heart of the Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area.” It...

Melbourne

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Hong Kong Trail

Jungle and skyscrapers side-by-side. Hiking the 50 kilometer long Hong Kong Trail is surprisingly stunning. Is it possible to hike the trail in one day?

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