I expected a challenging trek when we signed up for the four day Inca Trail hike to Machu Picchu, and I was not disappointed ! Though the second day of the hike to Dead Woman's Pass was a bit brutal, the third day was unforgettable and the last stretch into Machu Picchu was some of the most incredible natural scenery I've experienced.
The archaeological sites were impressive, and the climb up Huayna Picchu was the perfect end to the trek - our group was truly out of gas afterward. Our porters and specifically the kitchen crew were top-notch; several times we remarked that the food we ate in camp was the best we'd eaten in Peru.
Finally, our guide Paul was excellent about keeping us entertained and is as fun as we could have asked for. Would highly recommend these guys.