There’s something magical about starting a new year with an epic adventure, and this year, I chose one of the most iconic treks in the world—the Inca Trail. As an adventure traveler who thrives on new experiences, hiking the Inca Trail to witness the first sunrise of the year at Machu Picchu wasn’t just a bucket list goal—it was the ultimate way to welcome a new chapter.
The Journey Begins: The Call of the Andes
The Inca Trail is as legendary as the ancient civilization it honors. The journey to this UNESCO World Heritage site started with a briefing in Cusco, where excitement bubbled over among our small group of trekkers.
The trail is a four-day hike that’s as much about the journey as it is about the destination. With stunning mountain passes, lush cloud forests, and ancient ruins sprinkled along the way, every step carried a sense of discovery.
Climbing Through History
The first two days tested my endurance, especially Dead Woman’s Pass, which sits at an altitude of 4,200 meters. The altitude left me breathless, but the views were worth every gasping moment. The towering peaks seemed to touch the heavens, and the sound of the wind whistling through the valleys was nature’s symphony.
Day three felt like walking through history. Ancient Inca ruins like Runkurakay and Wiñay Wayna offered glimpses of the architectural genius of the Incas. These stops were not just rest points; they were sacred spaces that reminded me of the spiritual connection the Incas had with the land.
The Final Push: New Year’s Eve on the Trail
New Year’s Eve was unlike any other I’d experienced. Instead of fireworks and loud celebrations, it was the quiet murmur of the group sharing stories by the campfire. The stars lit up the Andean sky, and the anticipation for the next day was palpable.
The Magic of January 1
Waking up before dawn on January 1, I felt a mix of exhaustion and exhilaration. We started the final stretch with headlamps lighting our path to the Sun Gate, the entrance to Machu Picchu. As we reached Inti Punku just in time for sunrise, the first rays of 2024 broke over the iconic ruins.
The sight of the golden light cascading over Machu Picchu took my breath away. The ancient city seemed to come alive under the morning sun, its stone structures glowing with an ethereal beauty. Standing there, watching the world awaken, I felt a profound sense of renewal.
Final Word
There’s something transformative about welcoming the first day of the year surrounded by nature, history, and a group of like-minded adventurers. The Inca Trail isn’t just a hike; it’s a journey that connects you to the earth, to history, and to yourself.
If you’re considering an adventure for your next New Year, let me tell you: there’s no better way to start fresh than by greeting the sunrise at Machu Picchu. It’s a moment I’ll carry with me into every sunrise that follows.
So, what’s your plan for next year? Maybe I’ll see you on the trail!
Check out Bamba Travel’s free itinerary to Machu Picchu:
Guest post written by Kiko Steins
Kiko Steins is a dedicated teacher with a thirst for adventure. When he’s not shaping young minds, he’s out exploring new destinations, diving into local cultures, and collecting stories to bring back to his classroom.
