Hiking the Inca Trail

by Roger on February 1, 2008

by Roger | February 1st, 2008

incatrail400Anyone who visits Southern Peru is sure to visit the wonder that is Machu Picchu. Many of these visitors take the easy route accessing a starting point by train that drops them off relatively close to the ruins themselves. For those who want to really experience Machu Picchu and the history of this mysterious culture, there is the Inca Trail.

The Inca Trail is the original route of the great cities previous residents. This 4 day, 26 mile hike takes you through the tin air of the Andes and past a number of artifacts constructed from the lost inhabitants.

Along the Inca Trail you will climb up and down ancient steps, stone baths, aqueducts, tiers, and tunnels. All of which the Inca people dug out through solid stone. Combine this with the numerous views of the areas towering crests and lush landscape and you’ll wonder why anyone takes the train over this trail.

Permits

Don’t plan on doing this trip solo. The Peruvian government has a strict policy on the number of people allowed to hike and visit the ruins. Each hiker must be with a licensed guide and group. A permit is require, but your guide service should take care of this for you.

Season

The most popular months are during the dry season from June through September. Try to beat the crowds by visiting in May. This way you still get pretty decent hiking conditions without the hoard of crowds.

Gear
No out of the ordinary gear is needed. Talk to your guide service to see if they recommend anything special for the time of year you will be visiting.


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Pages tagged "hiking"
February 18, 2008 at 9:16 am

{ 3 comments }

Sara July 27, 2008 at 7:53 pm
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This is the last that I know,,,,,

Make sure you give yourself 2 days to acclimatise in Cusco before setting off on the trail!!

The Treks to Machu Picchu,

Classic 4 Day Inca Trail to Machu Picchu,,, most popular trek. Walk 4 days to the ruins and take the train back to Cusco.

Short 2 Day Inca Trail to Machu Picchu,,,for those with less time.

Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu,,, this is a 7 day/6 night trek that is a less touristy for those that want to avoid the crowds and have more time and money.

Check with tour operaters for prices as they seem to change each year. I recommend http://www.alltrekcusco.com

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Hilda Mayta December 18, 2008 at 3:10 pm
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I recommend approaching their recervas for 2009 in advance for tours:
Inca Trail to Machu Picchu
Choquekirao
Salkantay, and so on.
more information Visit our website
http://www.andeanenjoyperu.com
info@andeanenjoyperu.com
Sincerely
ANDEAN ENJOY PERU. Adventure and ecological Tour Operator in Cusco - Peru

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Quality Inca Trail Hikes April 6, 2009 at 10:07 am
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Hi
If you want to have a great experince and a great price check with ECS Travel a new Inca Trail Operator! You can e-mail at info@machupicchutreks.com

Happy travel!

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