subject: Step by Step on the Inca Trail [print this page] Step by Step on the Inca Trail Step by Step on the Inca Trail
Walk along the original path of the Incas up to the gates of the amazing citadel of Machu Picchu located deep in the heart of Peru's beautiful Sacred Valley. This unforgettable experience is often the highlight of travelers' trips to Peru. The classic 4 Day Inca Trail Hike leaves from Piscacucho at Kilometer 82 on the trail between Cusco and Machu Picchu. This 25 mile (39 km) trail is overcome with approximately 7 hours of walking per day with camping in between. The second day of walking is the steepest and most difficult as trekkers walk through passes located at over 15,000 feet.
Although this can this arduous, trekkers on the trail are well taken care of. Porters will accompany you all the way, carrying your camping equipment, and you can even hire your personal porter to carry your own belongings. You don't have to be a mountaineering hardliner to conquer the Inca Trail, although some physical strength, or at least general good health, is required.
It is required that travelers hike with an INC registered tour group, which organizes the bus to Piscacucho. There are many agencies that offer various levels of service and quality of equipment. It is also mandatory to obtain an Inca Trail permit before walking the trail. These permits sell out months in advance, so book ahead, especially for June August which is the high tourist season.
Prepare yourself for an exciting Peru trekking adventure with this guide to the Inca Trail step by step.
Day 1: On the first day of the trek, you will leave Cusco and be taken by bus to Piscacucho KM 82. The trail starts near the Urubamba River. You will walk pass the small community of Miskay and continue to the ruins of Patallacta, known as the "Village in the Heights". The village has many terraced fields used by the Incas centuries ago. The first night is spent camping at Wayllabamba.
Day 2: After enjoying a filling breakfast on the Inca Trail you will make your way from Wayllabmba to Pacaymayo. This is the most difficult part of the trail as it is the steepest. You will see the trail zigzagging before you, all the while enjoying breathtaking scenery.
Day 3: On the final day of walking, you will go from Pacaymayo to Winayhuayna, just a short walk from the Sun Gate of Machu Picchu. You will pass the Inca tomb of Runkurakay and the "Inaccessible Town" of Sayacmarca, a set of ruins that are cut into the rock. It is only accessible by walking a steep staircase carved into the rock. You will pass Conchamarca and the site Phuyupatamarca before camping your final night at the ruins of Winaywayna.
Day 4: Wake up before dawn to walk the short distance to the Sun Gate from where you can admire the sun rise over Machu Picchu and the surrounding mountains. This is truly a sight to behold, and as you take in the beauty of this majestic site, you will not regret your efforts. Now you can enjoy exploring this World Wonder!
