Nestled in the beautiful peaks of the Andes Mountains, Machu Picchu is the Lost City of the Incas. For centuries, it has been shrouded in mystery and intrigue. Every year, thousands of adventurous spirit take on the challenge of the Inca Trail to visit this ancient and sacred site. They push past their boundaries and discover what lies beyond the traditional limits of comfort. Sit back and join them on this journey of discovery as they conquer the Inca Trail!
1. Exploring the Ancient Path to Machu Picchu
Machu Picchu, the isolated and often-photographed Inca site located in Peru, is known for its incredible views and fascinating history. But what lies along the path to Machu Picchu? Following the ancient paths to Machu Picchu, travellers will be rewarded with awe-inspiring views, hardy adventure and a journey through history.
The journey to Machu Picchu starts in Cusco, which was once the capital of the Inca Empire. From there, visitors can take the train to Aguas Calientes, also known as Machu Picchu Pueblo, the closest town to the ruins.
The actual trek to Machu Picchu can be done in one of two ways: the four-day Inca Trail or the Salkantay Trek. Both routes offer incredible views of the landscape and a chance to dive into the history of Incan culture. Thru-hiking both of these trails is an unforgettable experience for any traveller!
What You Can Expect Along the Trails
- Exploring Incan ruins – While hiking, trekkers will have the chance to explore Incan ruins like Llactapata and Runkurakay.
- Meandering through cloud forest – Clouds and fog blanket the lower parts of the mountain, offering an otherworldly experience for visitors.
- Admiring gorgeous landscapes – From sweeping mountain peaks to tranquil lagoons, the views from both trails are unbeatable.
Whether you decide to take the Inca Trail or the Salkantay Trek, both routes will take you on an unforgettable journey to Machu Picchu. What are you waiting for? Start planning your trip to Machu Picchu today!
2. Preparing for the Challenge of the Inca Trail
Taking the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu is a bucket list item for many travellers. It’s often referred to as a once-in-a-lifetime journey and a peak experience of trekking. To get the most out of your Inca Trail adventure, there are a few steps to consider in order to prepare and make sure the trek is a healthy, fulfilling journey.
- Train Your Body: Start a simple plan of cardio conditioning and strength training about six months prior to your Conca Trail journey. Aim to exercise every other day with a mix of activities such as walking, running, biking, plus some stretching, yoga, and weight training.
- Organize Your Gear: Put together a thorough packing list. Make sure you include camping gear, warm sleeping bag, closed-sole shoes, sunscreen, insect repellent, hat, polarizer and UV-guard sunglasses. Also, pack your snacks and energy foods that are easy to transport and give you a quick energy boost when greeted with the altitude.
- Eat for the Altitude: With the altitude in the Andes Mountains, it is important to be well hydrated and properly fed. Carb-heavy diets are suitable for high-altitude hiking, so stock up on some whole-grain items such as quinoa, brown rice, and fortified cereals.
- Go Light: The average daily backpack should be around 10-15kg/25-35lbs and will be carried by a hired porter. This makes it important to leave any unnecessary items behind that will add weight or take up precious space in your pack.
While the Inca Trail can be a challenging experience, taking the right steps in preparation can help ensure that it is also a wonderful, rewarding, and unforgettable journey. Make sure you have the necessary gear and adventurous spirit to take on the challenge of this amazing adventure.
3. Uncovering the Mysteries of Machu Picchu
As one of the famed Seven Wonders of the World, the mysteries of Machu Picchu have been astounding travelers for centuries. Situated in the Andean mountains of Peru, the citadel was believed to have been constructed by the Incas in the mid-15th Century and, for a few hundred years, awed its residents as both a religious and ceremonial site before its abandonment. What becomes apparent, however, is that the secrets of Machu Picchu remain shrouded in mystery.
For those eager to uncover the many mysteries of Machu Picchu, the ancient city is the perfect place for exploration. Numbering over 200 structures, the citadel was built of granite and other natural material, cut with remarkable precision and laid without mortar. But the skill of the Incas is only the beginning. Soaring up one of the highest surrounding mountains, the Sun Temple, or Inti Piklla, offers visitors a spectacular view and is believed to have been used to worship the Inca deity Inti.
Visitors to Machu Picchu often find themselves just as captivated by the mountainous rolling landscaping and verdant agriculture. The city’s approach to water engineering comes as an overlooked surprise of its engineering and architecture investigations. Transforming the original water flows to a convenient irrigation network certainly left an indelible impact. The most impressive of these features is an acqueduct that serviced the city on the northern edge of the citadel by the Temple of Condor.
It is clear that the mysteries of Machu Picchu cast a spell on those who visit, and that the grandeur of the Incan civilization still lingers throughout the site. You can challenge yourself to explore hidden chambers, secret passageways and even find your own original discovery amongst its walls and temperate cloud forest. Leave with a wonderful adventure and a bucket list of memories that will last forever.
4. Traversing the Legendary Trails of the Incas
The legendary trails of the Incas are considered some of the most spectacular – and treacherous – treks that any explorer can undertake. With grandiose mountaintops, dramatic Andean valleys, and steep rocky canyons, a journey past the ruins of the Incas offers a breathtaking experience that few travellers ever forget.
For anyone looking to traverse the potential dangers of the Andes, the most popular routes for traversing the Inca Trail are the four main routes through Peru. These include:
- The Salkantay Trail
- The Lares Trail
- The Choquequirao Trail
- The Classic Inca Trail
The Salkantay Trail winds its way through high mountain passes and lush green valleys. Its highest pass, Fraile Pata, stands at a mighty 4,593 metres above sea level, and offers breathtaking views of the snow-capped Salkantay mountain. Amazingly, despite the climbs, a sense of tranquillity accompanies hikers from start to finish.
The Lares Trail criss-crosses through remote Andean villages and offers a chance to explore local culture and customs. This trail is unique in that it has no ruins, but there are spectacular views across mountain valleys, lakes and rivers, giving an amazing insight into traditional life in Peru. As a bonus, the trek can be shortened since a minivan drives you past intimidating terrains.
The Choquequirao Trail, meanwhile, is a two- or three-day extension of the Classic Inca Trail and takes hikers to the ruined city of Choquequirao. Not only does it offer spectacular views across the Río Apurímac valley, it also gives a truly legendary glimpse into the lives of the early Incas. It’s no wonder this is a favourite amongst hardened explorers.
Finally, the Classic Inca Trail is widely known as one of the world’s premier hiking trails. Passers-by will explore stunning ruins, enjoy tunnels carved out of stone, stand atop the famous stairway of Kachiqhata, and finish with a hike up Machu Picchu – the Incas’ Lost City. What better way to end a memorable journey?
So why wait? Grab your pack, lace up your boots, and follow in the footsteps of the Inca. Let the natural beauty of Peru intrigue and galvanize you on your way to the breathtaking Machu Picchu. Prepare for awe-inspiring vistas, unparalleled connection to nature, and a rewarding sense of accomplishment that comes with conquering the Inca Trail.
