We were bussed to what is famously known as kilometre 82, the starting point for most trekkers. The large parking lot was a mass of activity given 200 trekkers per day are permitted on the trail. A further 300 porters/guides are also allowed. The logistics and organization was like a major military operation as everything, and I do mean everything, must be carried in backpacks.
Day on is described as a gentle introduction to the hike. Ha! The altitude at the start is 2,660 metres (8,727 feet) which equates to approximately 25% less oxygen vs sea level. Despite the excitement and adrenaline it’s immediately apparent this is not your average Sunday stroll.
As we shuffled up the trail our 19 porters shot by us notwithstanding the fact their packs weighed up to 62lbs. Humbling.
They rush ahead to set up camp where we will have lunch then tear it all down and race on to our overnight campsite to set up the tents and prepare dinner. The speed with which they travel is mind boggling.
Day one is described as being as “easy introduction” to the trek. If that’s the case god help us for what’s to come.
The scenery in the mountains was jaw dropping. We are truly in the Andes mountains now
A constant sound, excluding my rasping breathing and heart beat pounding in my ears, was running water as dozens of brooks, streams and rivers crashed their way down the mountainside. Each was more impessive than the previous one. Our guides pointed out local flora and fauna and explained how it was used in the Peruvian diet or medicine cabinet. We also looked down on another significant Inca ruins that fell victim to the Spanish.
On we walked and after a few hours arrived at our camp for lunch. My description won’t do it justice. A cooking tent and a dining tent had been set up with the latter containing a long table and stools for 13 (11 trekkers and two guides as not all of our tour is doing the trail). Delicious hot food was served in multiple courses. Remember everything had to be hand carried up the mountain.
Our afternoon session saw us arrive at campsite Wayllambamba (elevation 3,100 metres, 10,171 feet) where sleeping tents had been set up along with the cooking and dining tents. Again the meal was superb. Our bodies may give out at some point on the trek but we will go down with a full stomach
We had rented air mattresses and sleeping bags however the former was about 3/4” thick fully inflated. Needless to say that wasn’t expected however given the porters carry that gear it’s understandable (trekkers carry a personal backpack with rain gear, personal items, some clothes, water etc.).
By 7:30 we crawled into our tents and except for a few barking dogs to spoil the tranquility, and it being 8C/46F, got in a good night’s sleep.
The Bennetts On Tour 