Everybody follows a trail but not all end up with a great discovery. Some may not even be able to make it to the end. Others lose their way leaving nothing, not even a trace. The Machu Picchu trek is one of the world’s most famous treks. Also known as the Inca Trail, this Hike takes you through some of Peru’s most stunning scenery including mountain vistas, tropical rainforest and ancient Inca ruins.
It is dubbed as the lost city of the fabulous Inca civilization. In 1983 UNESCO officially declared it as one of the top World Heritage sites. You have made up your mind to scale its heights with all the preparations well in place. What trail should you take in taking your Machu Picchu trek?
The standard trek to Machu Picchu is about 45km and usually takes around 4 days to complete. The trek starts from Cusco and follows a scenic route to the final destination of the Machu Picchu ruins. It is considered an intermediate hike and relatively fit people should have no problems completing it, however it is advised to spend a few days in Cusco prior to starting the trek in order to acclimatize to the altitude.
The most popular route offered to tourist to reach the fabled Machu Picchu ruins is the Inca Trail. First thing to remember is not to fall into the common error of getting confused about it. One should be informed that the Incas built a 40,000 road network linking Machu Picchu with the far flung areas that fell under its influence. This great Empire stretched from Quito in Ecuador down to Santiago in Chile and east to Mendoza in Argentina. Quite similar to the situation of Rome when it was at the zenith of its power. Understandably, the favorite buzzword of the cultured class at that time was “all roads lead to Rome.” So in a similar vein we can also say “all roads lead to Machu Picchu.” Cusco, where Machu Picchu is located, was the heart of that great empire. All the principal trails linking Machu Picchu were built and maintained by the Incas for purposes of easy communication and control.
However, since its discovery in 1911 by the renowned American archeologist Hiram Bingham, there is one trail that captures all the splendor of this great settlement even before you reach the sacred site. It provides an air of great expectation. This is the beautiful 43 kilometer stretch popularly known as “The Inca Trail to Machu Picchu.” It has been the most popular during the last 30 years or so. Access to this section of the Inca Trail is strictly regulated by the government due to heavy human traffic. All guides are properly trained and bookings should be made at least three months ahead of actual schedule.
The size of each trekking group is also limited to 16 people. These restrictions mean it is sensible to book your Machu Picchu tour at least a few months in advance.
Due to the limitations on the original route, a number of alternative Machu Picchu treks have become popular. One of the best known of these alternatives is the Salkantay trek to Machu Picchu. This route is open to everyone and has no imposed restrictions and no limitations on permit numbers. Many hikers actually prefer this option to the traditional route as it is less busy and offers a quieter trekking experience.
Another option is to do the Lares trek to Machu Picchu. This trek takes you on a more remote route through the Andes, traversing deep valleys and passing through traditional villages.
Whichever route you choose, it is important to plan in advance to ensure you have suitable equipment, guides and porters available to you on your trek. Try to book through a reputable company that has several recommendations, rather than one offering the cheapest price.
Remember to factor in the costs of accommodation and meals in Cusco while you are acclimatizing for your trek – whilst on the actual trek you will need camping and cooking equipment as well as sufficient supplies of food. If you have arranged your trek through a company this will all be organized for you and carried by the porters.
It is of no doubt that a Machu Picchu trek will be one of the most memorable experiences of your life.