“Triumphant after our ascent of the ‘Gringo Killer’ staircase, we entered the great Sun Gate in a wisp of clouds. The undulating Urubamba River carved its way through the Sacred Valley far below. Early morning sunshine lit Machu Picchu Citadel on the hilltop ahead. For three days we’d walked the secret stone superhighways of the Inca Trail. We slept beneath the mystical blanket of celestial constellations, faced our individual mental demons to overcome the physical toil. Entering Machu Picchu was now a rite of passage we had earned, and anyone arriving by means other than their own power had been nothing less than cheated.” – Melanie W. Owner, Sol Fitness Adventures

“Who would have thought that hiking four days to an altitude of 15,772 feet, with no shower or bed, and a 15 pound pack on my back, would have turned out to be one of the best adventures of my life. Arriving at the Sun Gate on the fourth day, offered a view of Machu Picchu only a hand full of people in the world experience. Countless numbers of tourists flock to Machu Picchu each year by bus, but few experience arriving to Machu Picchu by way of The Inca Trail. The approach to Machu Picchu on the trail presented us with not only an incredible challenge but more importantly, we experienced a different perspective of people, religion, history and our universe. It was a reminder of just how truly beautiful this world can be when we give ourselves an opportunity to see and experience it.” – Amie K.L.