The Inca Trail
The route known as the Inca Trail (El
Camino del Inca or Camino Inca) takes visitors from the city of Cuzco to Machu
Picchu. This trail covers approximately 40 km and has a very well‑documented
history. The research conducted, from Bingham up until the present, has led to
an itinerary which allows access to the archaeological site and the summit as
well as all of the other areas which start from the lands bordering the
Vilcanota and move away from the Yucay valley. More precisely, the starting
point for visitors is kilometre 88 on the Cuzco-Quillabamba
railway line, which is referred to as Qoriwayrachina. The present tourist
excursions prefer to begin their route starting at Chilca, located a bit
earlier. Nevertheless, the location and route of the ancient trail are located
in the place referred to as Llaqtapata, where there are ancient terraces and the
town of the same name. This was the ancient starting point, or at least that
which was used in pre Hispanic times, which led towards Machu Picchu. Gradually,
with the river at one's feet, the walker ascends through the Cusichaca valley,
crossing the lands cultivated by the Augustinian friars and researched by the
present archaeological work.
Today, the Inca Trail is followed by travelers from all over the world who, with
backpacks or by leasing the services of the carriers from Ollantaytambo, embark
on this walk which takes three days to reach Machu Picchu. Although Machu Picchu
is located at a height of 2,350 m above sea level ‑lower than the city of Cuzco
(3,400 m)‑ along the Inca Trail the walker will surpass heights which reach up
to a maximum of 4,200 m. Travelers who follow this route on foot usually take
the local train, which leaves at dawn from the San Pedro station, to the
aforementioned km 88. At this point, the route on foot to Machu Picchu begins.
The natural scenery which dominates the trip to the Machu Picchu area is
especially impressive because of the balance between the natural world and the
Inca architecture. At dusk or dawn, framed by the snow capped peaks at altitudes
over 6,000 m such as Salkantay, Huamantay, as well as othersthe forest, the
valleys, and the variety of flora and fauna in the scenery offer a continuous
spectacle of fascination and mystery. Undoubtedly, if one's physical fitness
allows him or her to do so, the Inca Trail is the best way to approach Machu
Picchu.
Suggested Inca Trail Programs :
Our
Peru Tour Packages
is unique and it has everything you need!
For further info look at The Inca Road to
Machu Picchu
By Ted Rose
also Peru Inca Trail
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