Coming to you today from 11,800 feet

Today was hellish. Seriously. The Inca trail to Macchu Pichu was originally crafted as a spiritual pilgrimage, upon which the Inca would purify their bodies through physical sacrifice as a means of preparation for going before the gods. While we didn't hike it in sandals or fast on the way up, we now understand the physical sacrifice angle.

Today we covered a little over 10 miles, nearly 5,000 feet of combined elevation gain, and peaked at roughly 14,000 feet. To say it was difficult would be an understatement. Billy, our fellow trekker from Greece, put it best: "I feel like I got hit by a truck."

At least the hard part is done. The next two days are mostly flat to downhill, and we'll get to watch the sunrise over Macchu Pichu! That alone should make today worth it :)Read more