Among the experiences that can’t be missed if you are visiting Peru there is Inca Trail. This trek will take you to the famous ruins of Machu Picchu, an ancient city built on a terrace that overlooks a wonderful valley. There are many ways to get to this desired destination, the easiest (and by far less entertaining) is by train. I twill take you right up to Aguas Calientes and from here you’ll be able to reach the ruins with a bus.
Otherwise you can choose between three different treks that will leave unforgettable memories and proudness of what you have achieved.
Trekking in Peru: the routes to Machu Picchu
The three main routes to Machu Picchu take 2, 4 and 7 days.
In the longer option you’ll be able to take a detour on the beautiful treks of Salkantay the highest peak of Cordillera Vilcabamba (6.271 m).
The 2 day trek will give you the chance to visit Machu Picchu spending just one night near Winay Wayna another impressive Inca village where you’ll be able to take a look at the ruins of the houses and of the terraces build more than 800 years ago.
The most reccomended route is the 4-day one, suitable for (almost) all the tourists, that will give you a truly unforgettable experience along the 82 km of this spectacular “stroll through the Andes”.
During this trek you’ll reach the altitude of 4200 meters, which will require a little phisical training and some acclimatization days in Cusco.
At the end of the first day of walking you’ll get to Wayllabamba a plain where you’ll be able to setup the first night camp.
The second day you’ll make an important ascent to Llulluchapampa, from here you’ll take to the most difficult part of the trek, the “Dead woman’s pass”, the highest place on the route. Once arrived at the summit of this pass it’s not unusual to see the travellers celebrating.
The third day is often recognised as the one with the most beautiful sights, both from the naturalistic side (Runkurakay pass and Salkantay peak), and from the archeological one (Sayacmarca ruins and it’s perfectly preserved stairs).
The last day will see just 6km of walking to reach Machu Picchu. Some travellers will wake up in the middle of the night to get to the ruins before the dawn. Walk on the stairs of Intipunku, the door of the sun, and you’ll finally have the chance to look at this spectacular ruins and on the exciting landscape that sorrounds it.
Tips for the Inca Trail trek
- The Inca Trail can’t be tackled without a local guide. Usually the groups are composed by fifteen people but it’s possible to get a guide even for two people, but the costs will raise accordingly.
- Along the route you’ll reach considerable heights, it’s good to prepare this avventure with some months in advance and book at least a day in Cusco (3400 meters) to acclimatize.
- Book in advance, the Inca Trail permits are limited.
- If possible avoid the months from December to March, which are the rainiest.
