The Inca trail is mainly steps like this reconstructed over the original Inca paths - one section was 6 km (4 miles) straight down 2,100+ steps. Here Stef expertly descends the steps with her walking stick.

First ruins of the inca trail

The scenery along the trail at the beginning of day two on the Inca Trail.

inca trail, sap adventures com

This was such an impressive example of Inca architecture and ingenuity - this fountain at an Inca ruin still functions after 600+ years

Only halfway up the ascent to the Second Pass of the trail and already collectively collapsing in a random Inca ruin. Note the stunning waterfall in the background.

Our guide Kike flying through the Inca site of Runkuracay.

This part of the trail winds higher up through the jungle. Here the Inca Steps begin - lots, and lots, and lots, and lots, and lots of Inca Steps. Did I mention there were lots of steps? This part was difficult but not impossible - the altitude was a problem but it wasn't quite high enough to feel like someone was sitting on my lungs. That came later.

This is where I met Tamara. We spent a lot of time slogging up to Dead Woman's Pass. Yes, that's really what they call it.