Unforgettable and Life Changing 2-Day trip to Machu Picchu
My two friends and I booked with Pie Experiences (pronounced like the word foot in Spanish, not the dessert like I initially thought!) for their 2-Day Inca Trail, starting the hike at Km 104. At first, we were in contact with Katherine. I just wanted to start by saying that this person is FANTASTIC. She is responsive, extremely nice, caring, fun to talk to, and the most helpful person. She made sure from behind the scenes that we were taken care of the entire time. We kept in contact through Whatsapp and I felt that she had our best interest in planning this trip. Our tour guide, Juan, was phenomenal. Juan showed up on time at our hotel on the first day in Ollanta and was extremely friendly and down to earth. We took a very nice train ride to Km 104 where we were the only ones that got off and shortly, we started our hike. Juan was very in tune with all of us (we are in our late 20s). Juan took as many breaks as we needed and always checked in with us, asking how we were doing. Juan was extremely knowledgeable not only about the hike but also all of the questions that we could ask while on the hike. Juan is one of those people where it feels like you have been buds for decades. The hike was challenging but super worthwhile. I would highly recommend doing the 2-day hike, as it gives you a better appreciation when you first look out at Machu Picchu. Our lunch was very good. It included a lot of food but all I can remember were the two sandwiches and a brownie, which were fantastic. As we ended our first day, we stayed at a very nice hotel in Aguas Calientes. Dinner was provided and it was very good. The next day, we explored Machu Picchu and we also bought tickets to hike Huayna Picchu. I was not feeling very well as I was, unfortunately, battling a case of traveler's diarrhea the night before. Juan, seeing that I was somewhat feeble, hiked with us up to Huayna Picchu. He did not need to do that, but he insisted. I think this shows that he cares about the people that he travels with, which speaks a lot about his character and the person that he is. It is not an easy hike. After the hike up and down the mountain, we traveled back to Aguas Calientes and parted ways as we had a separate train back to Ollanta. We initially booked through Pie Experiences because we wanted to do the 2 day Machu Picchu hike and this company offered a great price with the amenities that we desired. I think what separates this company from other travel companies is not only the hospitality but the friendliness, attentiveness, and earnest attitudes that everyone in the company exudes. I cannot speak any more highly of everyone that I interacted with. Again, I highly recommend this company to anyone looking for a great experience in Peru. Also as a side note, I felt very safe traveling in May. I did not see any riots or protests. I think it is a wonderful time to travel right now.