Traveling the legendary Inca Trail to Machu Picchu

Machu Picchu, Peru

There are many roads that lead to Machu Picchu but none is as exciting as the Inca Trail, the most popular pedestrian path in the American continent for being a rite of passage for travelers in adventure tourism. From Cuzco, 43 kilometers of path through forests, ancient stone steps and spectacular views. At the end of the Inca Trail is the reward after the march: the famous Puerta del Sol and the ruins of Machu Picchu, an ancient city from the Inca period recognized as an important religious, administrative and political center built on the top of a great mountain.

The Inca Trail is a stone route built by this civilization five centuries ago to unite its peoples scattered throughout the Tawantisuyo empire. A protected archaeological site but open to tourism which is located in the middle of the Andes and is not accessible by car or by any means of transport.

The Ministry of Culture Cusco is in charge of regulating access and the conditions of the excursions to Machu Picchu. It also takes care of the maintenance of the route, the camps, the sanitary facilities and the authorization of access to this historical Andean sanctuary.

Completing the Inca Trail to contemplate this treasure of the National Heritage of Peru is an unforgettable experience that brings us closer to the way of life of those first inhabitants of Machu Picchu.

As in many other high demand hiking trails on the planet, to do the Inca Trail you have to plan the trip in advance to avoid unforeseen events. Here are some practical tips that will help you when preparing this unique adventure.

Choose the ideal time to do the Inca Trail

Although Groups are organized all year round (except in February when there are heavy rains and the Inca Trail is closed for maintenance reasons) it is important to choose the best time. The most suitable months are June, July and August as they are colder and drier, although they are also the most popular. To avoid crowds it is best to go before or after the rainy season (from March to May) or from September to November.

Book in advance

Inca Trail Nature

Machu Picchu is one of the treasures of the National Heritage of Peru that the country guards with more zeal. To visit it, it is necessary to obtain prior authorization from the Ministry of Culture Peruvian so we will need to prepare this visit in advance to have all the necessary permits ready. Mention that only authorized operators get those permits. The general availability of places can be checked at www.camino-inca.com.

If we want to do the Inca Trail in high season (June, July and August) it is best to plan them a year in advance. On the other hand, if our idea is to visit it in low season, six months will be enough. The two-day route is also usually just as requested and booking months in advance is more than a must.

The best option is to agree on a five-day trip that allows us to enjoy the landscape and find less crowded camping spots. It is also essential to take out travel insurance that covers outdoor activities.

Choose the best operator to visit Machu Picchu

Inca Trail views

The Inca Trail cannot be done on your own. It is mandatory to reserve it through an authorized operator since only 500 people are allowed daily access to the route and it is the authorized operators who receive the permits in order of request. It is necessary to give the passport number and show it at the controls along the way. As for prices, these range between 360 and 450 euros but depend on the operator and the type of route.

Paying more is not always synonymous with higher quality. It is best to contact several agencies to check the quality of their services, equipment, guides and porters. Also to make sure that the circuit includes at least shop, food, one-day entrance to the ruins and return trip by train.

Guaranteed operators include: www.amazonas-explorer.com, www.acacari.com, www.aventours.com, www.culturasperu.com, www.explorandes.com, www.ecotrekperu.com, www.peruvianodyssey.com, www.tambotreks.net .

How to prepare for the Inca Trail

Inca Trail sign

Many travelers talk about the need to be in shape to do this route. Before the trip, it is advisable to prepare by taking long walks and excursions of all kinds.

With regards to equipment to do the Inca TrailIt is advisable to wear a pair of boots that are already tamed and that do not make chafing. For long walks it will be necessary to carry a cane and a small first-aid kit in case the dreaded blisters make an appearance at some point.

In the bag you can not miss a sunscreen, a hat, a travel towel, a canteen, an insect repellent, underwear, thick socks, long pants, sunglasses, gloves and a down jacket.

Information of interest of Machu Picchu

Top Machu Picchu

Peru is located in the western part of South America. It is determined by the presence of the Andes Mountains, which crosses the territory from north to south, configuring three clearly differentiated areas such as the coast, the mountains and the jungle.

Machu Picchu means old mountain and it was named for the location of the Inca citadel. The architectural complex was built in the XNUMXth century by the Inca Pachacutec and the citadel is divided into two sectors: the agricultural, made up of the platforms, and the urban, which fulfilled administrative functions.

The exact location of Machu Picchu is in the province of Urubamba, 112,5 km northeast of the city of Cuzco. Its annual temperature is 6º C minimum and maximum 21º C.


Be the first to comment

Leave a Comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked with *

*

*