Built by the Incas over the course of the 1400s, the Inca trail as you might expect is a fairly expansive, 20 day, trail through the Andes. The trail opens in July on the south side of Peru, near Machu Picchu. It was only in July, 2011 that the trail opened to mountain trekkers eager to tackle the mountain of Machu Picchu. Since then, there has been tremendous interest in the Inca Trail, and each year thousands of people have booked the trek, which makes it one of the most popular treks in the world.
So, what is it that makes the Inca Trail so special? It’s difficult to put your finger on exactly what makes it so special, because just about everything about the trail is unique. For starters, the Peruvian mountain people have always inhabited the mountain. They called the mountain “Machu Picchu” which means “Duck’s Peak” and that name has stuck ever since. The people have also used the mountain to mountaineer for hundreds of years. Climbing the peak of the mountain means setting off from the town of Aguas Calientes. Depending on the day of the climb, you can climb from the town of Aguas Calientes up to the northern side of the peak within a day.
Once you reach the top of the mountain, you will be treated to a fantastic scene where you will get to see the Andean condor soar and eagles fly above. The top of the mountain is susceptible to seismic activity, so if you are trekking toward the top there is a good chance that you will be taking certain safety precautions. Also, there is a prestigious high scrub oak that is growing on the slopes of the mountain and it is possible that this may be the origin of the “walk on the edge of the cliff”. We don’t know for sure yet, but there is a walk that does not require climbing the peak so it may be the perfect spot for those who are not particularly experienced hikers.
To get to the top of the mountain you will need to take a bus up from Urubamba and then a further bus back down. It is a reasonable trek and gives you the opportunity to get a view of some interesting Inca ruins. When you get to the base of the mountain you will get your chance to explore the area on foot. There are secret caves and trails that take you to the summit of the mountain. If you are brave enough there is the option to head back down to Urubamba with a canoe. If you do want to make the summit, then be aware that it will require some strenuous walking to get to the top of the mountain.
To get to the great ruins of Machu Picchu it is recommended that you arrange a guided tour. These are really worth the price as they will take you to the “grounds” and give you an insider’s view of the ruins. Nightly tours are also available, but this one is a bit more expensive.
You can choose to travel by Jeep or elephant which will take you through the mountains. However, it is recommended that you hire a guide who has knowledge of the area. You can choose from the following:
The Inca Trail– These are the standard Inca trail and is a great way to acclimatize yourself to the high altitude.
Inca Sand Game Reserve- This safari will be a highlight of your trip to Machu Picchu. You will be touring the wetlands and the wet forest, meeting all kinds of wildlife along the way. Be sure to look out for the monkeys that call this area home.
Pisac National Park- You will see the rugged peaks of the Andes here. You will be able to enjoy yourself with a luxurious picnic and then catch the train back to Arequipa.
Machu Picchu Trek- This is quite an interesting trek to do. It focuses on the stunning ruins and you will be able to get some spectacular views on the way. You will be going to the Lost City and you will also get to visit the town of Vitcos.
You can also opt to do a more traditional walking tour of the city like most people do. Your guide will take you through the typical streets and you will be able to relax and visit sites along the way.
In addition to these, there are a lot of other activities that you can partake in while trekking to Machu Picchu. If you are keen about archaeology, there are competitions that you can take part in like the one that is held every year in Sangay.
Overall, there are so many things that you can do in this area of Peru. The trek to Machu Picchu is truly not something that should be missed.