Hiking to Machu Picchu is one of the best ways to discover this ancient Incan city. Discovered over a century ago, and often called a lost, lone or remote city; however, it was at one time the crown of the entire province. As they hike the trail, visitors will find ruins all along the way. The hike can help tourists to gather a greater understanding of the significance of this ancient city.
The Incas thought of this ancient city, as well as the trail that lead to it as having both spiritual and artistic significance. Following the trail is one of the most scenic ways to visit the area and grasp the regard for nature and architectural concepts of the builders. Along the way, one can see exotic vegetation, animals, beautiful mountains and of course Incan ruins.
Area visitors will have three different options on their trek to see the city. The most traditional is also the most difficult path and takes four days and three nights to complete. An easier trip is the two days one night trail or the one day hike that includes only the last portion of the easier hike. It is suitable for those who might be out of shape or with little experience in hikes. Porters can be hired to haul the gear if one needs help.
Visitors are no longer allowed to walk any of the trails along. Organized groups sponsored by officially sanctioned agencies are the most common way to visit. Currently there are 140 agencies. While one can organize his or her own group of two or more visitors, the cost is greatly increased.
The traditional four day route includes trails and hand hewn stone stairs through the mountains that allow visitors to view the cloud forest, rivers and Incan ruins. Along the way, stop to see rare orchids, over 400 species of birds and maybe even a spectacled bear. The 26 mile route includes three mountain passes and rises to 13,800 feet above sea level.
On a two day trip, hikers will find the trip less physically demanding. The maximum elevation on this trip is 9,020 feet and the climb is relatively easy. Hikers will miss some of the most interesting ruins and best mountain scenery as a sacrifice for the easier hike. However, it is ideal for those who lack the physical fitness or time for the longer trail.
It is recommended that visitors plan to spend a couple of days in Cusco or the Sacred Valley in order to become acclimatized to the elevation before beginning their hike. They will also want to have gear to keep them dry in case of wet weather and warm if the temperatures begin to drop. Sturdy, yet comfortable walking boots along with a good backpack are needed.
When planning on hiking to Machu Picchu one should make a reservation at least two weeks in advance, although the 4-6 months is much better, especially for the peak months of May through October. Some agencies offer reservations up to a year in advance. It is no longer possible to show in Cusco and take a trip on the fly.
The Incas thought of this ancient city, as well as the trail that lead to it as having both spiritual and artistic significance. Following the trail is one of the most scenic ways to visit the area and grasp the regard for nature and architectural concepts of the builders. Along the way, one can see exotic vegetation, animals, beautiful mountains and of course Incan ruins.
Area visitors will have three different options on their trek to see the city. The most traditional is also the most difficult path and takes four days and three nights to complete. An easier trip is the two days one night trail or the one day hike that includes only the last portion of the easier hike. It is suitable for those who might be out of shape or with little experience in hikes. Porters can be hired to haul the gear if one needs help.
Visitors are no longer allowed to walk any of the trails along. Organized groups sponsored by officially sanctioned agencies are the most common way to visit. Currently there are 140 agencies. While one can organize his or her own group of two or more visitors, the cost is greatly increased.
The traditional four day route includes trails and hand hewn stone stairs through the mountains that allow visitors to view the cloud forest, rivers and Incan ruins. Along the way, stop to see rare orchids, over 400 species of birds and maybe even a spectacled bear. The 26 mile route includes three mountain passes and rises to 13,800 feet above sea level.
On a two day trip, hikers will find the trip less physically demanding. The maximum elevation on this trip is 9,020 feet and the climb is relatively easy. Hikers will miss some of the most interesting ruins and best mountain scenery as a sacrifice for the easier hike. However, it is ideal for those who lack the physical fitness or time for the longer trail.
It is recommended that visitors plan to spend a couple of days in Cusco or the Sacred Valley in order to become acclimatized to the elevation before beginning their hike. They will also want to have gear to keep them dry in case of wet weather and warm if the temperatures begin to drop. Sturdy, yet comfortable walking boots along with a good backpack are needed.
When planning on hiking to Machu Picchu one should make a reservation at least two weeks in advance, although the 4-6 months is much better, especially for the peak months of May through October. Some agencies offer reservations up to a year in advance. It is no longer possible to show in Cusco and take a trip on the fly.
About the Author:
Check out Peruforless.com for a complete summary of the reasons why you should book Cusco tours, today. You can also get more information about a reputable tour operator at peruforless.com/packages/trekking.php right now.
EmoticonEmoticon