8 Reasons to Hike the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu
Walk to the Ancient Lost City Instead of Taking the Train
May 13, 2009
Machu Picchu is truly one of the man-made wonders of the world. Tourists flock there, and no matter the time of year one visits, it’s always busy. The majority of visitors get there by taking the train to Aguas Calientes and then a bus or taxi up to the ruins, but for the more adventurous, there’s a far more rewarding way to get there.
The classic Inca Trail trek is an adventure trip that consists of a 4-day hike through the mountains that ends at the ancient Lost City of the Incas. Regulations allow 500 people a day to begin the journey, which is a fair number, but still significantly less than the number who tour Macchu Picchu everyday. Hiking the trail instead of taking the train offers several advantages.
Avoid Disneyworld-like Lineups
As soon as the gates open in the morning, tourists from all over the world crowd into the ancient ruins of Machu Picchu. Hikers who take the trail have the advantage of arriving approximately 2 hours before the park opens and have full access to all the ruins. Seeing the ruins virtually empty is an unforgettable, and some would say spiritual, experience that is well worth having.
Visit Ancient Ruins Along the Way
There’s more to Inca culture than Machu Picchu. Hikers who take the trail visit numerous ancient Inca ruins that are unlikely to be seen any other way. Tour guides frequently provide tours and information along the way, gifting trekkers with an experience other Machu Picchu visitors are unlikely to get.
Earn Bragging Rights by Conquering Dead Woman’s Pass
The hours it takes to climb up the mountain pass in the high altitude on day 2 of the trek seem endless, but arriving at the top is a truly rewarding experience. Trekkers are greeted with the applause and cheers of those that have arrived before them, and surrounded by sweeping vistas of the Peruvian Andes.
Walk Through Cloud Forest
Day 3 of the trek is considered the most popular among trekkers. After walking in the dusty and rocky conditions of the past 2 days, hikers make their way through the rainforest-like conditions of the cloud forest. Lush greenery and exotic flowers abound.
Experience Sleeping in the Peruvian Andes
There’s nothing that can be compared to waking up in the morning, breathing in the mountain air, and gazing out over the majestic Andes. No hotel is Cusco can replicate the experience.
Get to Know Some of the Hardest Working People in the World
The porters who work for the tour groups are truly remarkable people. As hikers take brakes to catch their breath and rest weary muscles, porters run past in flip flops carrying propane tanks, food, backpacks, and all the other luxury items that make the trek more enjoyable for hikers. Be sure to share snacks with porters as they run by – it will be much appreciated.
Learn That Alpaca’s Walk Faster Than People
People who have never visited high altitudes are often surprised at the effect it has on them. Even very fit individuals move unusually slowly and have trouble walking at their regular pace. The slow-moving Alpacas that occasionally roam the trail often pass hikers, much to their surprise.
Enter the Lost City of the Incas Through the Sun Gate
Experience the entrance to Machu Picchu just as the Incas would have. The ancient sun gate is like a historic welcome sign, greeting giddy trekkers at the end of their long journey. After hikers pass through, they descend into the ruins as the clouds lift and reveal the picture postcard view. Visitors who take the train must come up from the base of the mountain and their first view is far less impressive.
Hiking the Inca Trail is a strenuous adventure that offers hikers rewards in abundance. When talking about the Inca Trail it is certainly true that it is as much about the journey as it is the destination – and when the destination is Machu Picchu, that’s saying a great deal.
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