Hiking to Machu Picchu on the Incan Trail in the country of Peru is a favorite activity of adventurous vacationers from across the globe. The hike usually takes anywhere from 3 to 5 days, but the exact time frame will depend on which starting point the hikers choose, and how fast they move. For safety and other reasons, the Peruvian government states that all hikers must take this excursion with a licensed tour group.
A Machu Picchu hiking expedition generally starts from the municipality of Cuzco. However, there are several routes that can be taken once the journey is underway. An example of an atypical route one can follow is a long trek through Peru's Andes Mountains to Choquequirao, an specific ancient landmark of the Incas.
The Choquequirao route is usually completed within 5 days; however, in some instances it may take a bit longer. The exact time it will take to complete this hike will depend on how much sightseeing the participants plan to do on the way. In addition, with this specific route there are two trails: these are a difficult or easy terrain, which is another choice that will depend on the preferences of the hikers.
The Lares trek is the most forgiving of the many trails, and it loosely follows the main highway that runs through the Sacred Valley. Hikers who choose this route can stop and converse with locals who reside in numerous rural Peruvian communities. The scenery of this trail is exceptionally diverse, and features hot springs, lagoons, valleys, rivers. The hike commences in the town of Ollantaytambo, from where the participants can catch a train to the ruin sites of the ancient Incas.
The most widely used and traditional trail to Machu Picchu is taken from Cuzco and usually concludes at daybreak on the fourth day. Travelers who choose this direct route typically enjoy the spectacular sunrises that they see each morning, especially on the journey's final day when they enter the renowned Sun Gate. Because this is the most popular route among Peruvian hikers, it is wise to obtain one's permit several months in advance if this trail is his or her first choice.
Peru's highlands are spectacular, regardless of which trail a hiker selects. However, those who prefer steep routes will likely discover that the Salkantay trail is especially breathtaking. Seeing the outstanding glacier covered mountains up close will be an unforgettable moment in time for most individuals. This is why those who enjoy challenging trails should consider this route.
The Machu Picchu lodge trail is another alternative that travelers should not overlook. It is somewhat like the Lares route, except the hikers retire at night to a pleasant and rustic lodge, rather than setting up camp. This trail takes about 6 days to complete, as it is generally approached at a slower pace than is typically set on the other routes mentioned above.
Most hikes to Machu Picchu require the use of camping gear. Visitors should plan to bring a sleeping bag that can accommodate the freezing temperatures sometimes experienced at night on the mountain. A headlamp is also a vital part of one's ensemble, as it will be necessary for navigating campsites at night. A person must also be sure to bring an adequate amount of drinking water. Regardless of the route one takes, hiking to Machu Picchu is an experience that will be remembered for many years in the future.
A Machu Picchu hiking expedition generally starts from the municipality of Cuzco. However, there are several routes that can be taken once the journey is underway. An example of an atypical route one can follow is a long trek through Peru's Andes Mountains to Choquequirao, an specific ancient landmark of the Incas.
The Choquequirao route is usually completed within 5 days; however, in some instances it may take a bit longer. The exact time it will take to complete this hike will depend on how much sightseeing the participants plan to do on the way. In addition, with this specific route there are two trails: these are a difficult or easy terrain, which is another choice that will depend on the preferences of the hikers.
The Lares trek is the most forgiving of the many trails, and it loosely follows the main highway that runs through the Sacred Valley. Hikers who choose this route can stop and converse with locals who reside in numerous rural Peruvian communities. The scenery of this trail is exceptionally diverse, and features hot springs, lagoons, valleys, rivers. The hike commences in the town of Ollantaytambo, from where the participants can catch a train to the ruin sites of the ancient Incas.
The most widely used and traditional trail to Machu Picchu is taken from Cuzco and usually concludes at daybreak on the fourth day. Travelers who choose this direct route typically enjoy the spectacular sunrises that they see each morning, especially on the journey's final day when they enter the renowned Sun Gate. Because this is the most popular route among Peruvian hikers, it is wise to obtain one's permit several months in advance if this trail is his or her first choice.
Peru's highlands are spectacular, regardless of which trail a hiker selects. However, those who prefer steep routes will likely discover that the Salkantay trail is especially breathtaking. Seeing the outstanding glacier covered mountains up close will be an unforgettable moment in time for most individuals. This is why those who enjoy challenging trails should consider this route.
The Machu Picchu lodge trail is another alternative that travelers should not overlook. It is somewhat like the Lares route, except the hikers retire at night to a pleasant and rustic lodge, rather than setting up camp. This trail takes about 6 days to complete, as it is generally approached at a slower pace than is typically set on the other routes mentioned above.
Most hikes to Machu Picchu require the use of camping gear. Visitors should plan to bring a sleeping bag that can accommodate the freezing temperatures sometimes experienced at night on the mountain. A headlamp is also a vital part of one's ensemble, as it will be necessary for navigating campsites at night. A person must also be sure to bring an adequate amount of drinking water. Regardless of the route one takes, hiking to Machu Picchu is an experience that will be remembered for many years in the future.
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