Trekking Machu Picchu the Inca Trail and Other Trek Routes

1. Trekking Machu Picchu the Inca Trail and Other Trek Routes explorenatura.com Discovered only in 1960, the Inca Trail is part of the more than 23,000 km of roads built by the Incas across South America. It crosses a remarkable range of natural landscapes and eco-systems, from thick tropical jungle to the bear, unwelcoming rocks of the Andean mountains. It is indisputably Peru's most popular trekking route and, all in all, probably the most beautiful walk in South America. The stone-paved trail takes three to four days of tough hiking the Lares Trek, and can be commenced at Chillca (Kilometre 76 of the Cusco-Machu Picchu railway) or, most frequently, at Qorihuayrachina, Kilometre 88 of the railway. The first day is relatively easy, and includes along the route the Inca ruins of Cusichaca, Q'ente, Pulpituyoc, and Llaqtapata, a site used for crop production remained well preserved. The second day is the hardest of all, mainly because the ascent becomes increasingly steep. The trail follows original Inca stonework that climbs uphill, ending just short of the actual Warmiwañuska or Dead Woman's pass, at 4,200 m.a.s.l. The crossing of the pass opens day three, after camping in the Pacaymayo valley. From here it's downhill. The Trail descends into the valley and heads to the restored site of Runkuraqay, a small Inca watch post, and then to Sayaqmarka, perched atop a sheer cliff, from where one can see the start of the massive Amazon rainforest, stretching to Salkantay trek.

2. The final day is another easy day, mostly descending and passing through lush jungles and cloud forests before reaching Machu Picchu, Peru's most important tourist site, through the Inti Punku or Gateway of the Sun. Before going for the trail, you should spend at least 48 hours in Cusco acclimatising, as it features some tough hiking, including several hours above 3,500 m.a.s.l. Otherwise, Acute Mountain sickness (altitude sickness) could make your first few days uncomfortable. Explore Natura +51 985 322710 / +51 984 300023 +51 84 286015 / +51 84632562 Info@explorenatura.com Calle Triunfo 392 Of. 212-D Cusco - Peru