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Inca Trail, Peru
Snow capped peaks, lush cloud forests, ancient culture, and world famous archeological ruins. Yes there is one trek that has it all. The Inca Trail.
Wake up to sunrise over the famed stonework’s of Machuu Pichuu. This beautiful city is hewn on top of a mountain. Its mystery and beauty captivates all who behold it. Its popularity has soared in recent years and at some times it can be downright crowded.
You will follow the ancient stone path created by the Inca to transport men and material. This 4-5 days trek passes several Ruin sites and provide some stunning views along the way – weather permitting.
Fundamentals Days Trekking: 4-5 days
Highlights
When to Go The main trekking season is from May to September, with April and Novemeber also providing reasonable trekking. However, as with most popular treks when in season the trails are quite crowded.
Guided vs Independent Treks A guided tour is required for all trekkers, although some of the more aggressively independent trekkers may find a way. However, there are so many companies available for hire in Cuzco it is easy to find one that matches your budget and level of comfort. Porters are available for hire so take a load off and give a job to a local. The load weight is meticulously monitored at the starting point and along the trail, as Peruvian law is careful not to overload their young men. Load maximum is 20 kilos (44 pounds).
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Orientation The Inca trail and Macchu Picchu are located in the Central Andes of Peru. Lima is the capital of Peru and the major arrival point for international Travelers. La Paz Bolivia is closer but does not have the same level of flight connections. Cuzco is the jumping off point for the Inca Trail.
Difficulty The main trek is a five day four night adventure. There is a shorter 3 day 2 night version although we strongly recommend the longer trek if you can spare a couple of extra days. The trek can be challenging. Trudging up Dead Woman’s pass on day two can take a toll. It tops out at over 13,000 feet so some acclimatizing is helpful. It is likely you will have spent some time in Cuzco, so this helps. However, climbing is only one of the issues. The descent can also be troubling if there is a lot of precipitation, because the trail can get fairly muddy and slippery. In addition, the stone paths can take their toll on the knees when descending.
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Access / Local Information
The access city is the charming town of Cuzco. A myriad of travelers services are available in all range of price and quality. The town square is beautiful and the surrounding villages and ruins will keep you occupied for very interesting exploratory and side trips. Cuzco is accessible from Lima by flight or a grueling bus journey. Cuzco is accessible from La Paz by Bus or a bus and train combination. From Cuzco the trail head can be accessed by train, private bus or public bus.
Day to Day Account - Jeff Salvage - Inca Trail
The Inca Trail with it's prized ruins of Macchu Picchu at the end has always been on my short list of destinations. When the opportunity arose to head south with a colleuge from the University I teach at presented itself, we jumped on it. Read about our trip down the Inca Trail.
