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Discover Machu Picchu Trail

Although he wasn’t the first Incan ruler, Pachacuti was the ruler who transformed them into an empire. Perhaps his vital role in this area of Peru is the reason why his winter home known as Machu Picchu and Cuzco tours has become such a popular site. The location was also added to the list of the New Seven Wonders of the World.

Why Visit Machu Picchu?


You should travel Machu Picchu for one simple reason: you will never see more impressive ruins anywhere else in the world. Known as the Lost City of the Incas, these ruins – which have been named a UNESCO World Heritage Site – were only found in the early 20th century despite being from a city founded several centuries early during the heart of the powerful Incan Empire.

Only by a miracle of history was the location, believed to be a getaway from the powerful and high ranking members of the empire, not destroyed by the Spanish invaders led by Pizarro in the 16th century. Although there are multiple ways to reach the ruins, the most traditional and most impressive is taking the Incan Trail on foot.

Getting Into the Ruins


The less adventurous tourists choose to take the train from Cuzco into Machu Picchu. The train leaves in the morning, and you’ll return the same evening via train. If you’re going to be staying longer, Aguas Calientes is a nice place to stay and you can take a bus ride from there up into the ruins. You can reach the lodging by train, bus, or helicopter.

Hiking the Incan Trail, also known as the Machu Picchu trail, is a more unique transportation. However, the hike can last two to four days so you need to be in good health and be prepared for lots of walking, sleeping in tents, and dealing with the high elevation.

Using the Trail


If you are going to take the Machu Picchu trail, you need to do so after learning as much as possible about the area. First, know when to go. You should never plan to travel Machu Picchu in the rainy season because the roads will be closed due to landslides and other problems. Going from April to October is the best idea but if you’re traveling from June to August you need to make reservations early.

Before you begin the journey, you also need to ensure you have all of the supplies necessary, including hiking boots, rain wear, insect repellent, flashlights, and more. Also bring some cash so you can tip your guide.

Things to See


When you travel Machu Picchu, you’ll want to explore some of the impressive ruins that remain at the site. Viewing them in books or on the Internet is not nearly as impressive as seeing them in person. When you hike to the ruins, you can enter the city through the Sun Gate which provides a startlingly beautiful view of the surrounding valley. You also won’t want to miss the Temple of the Sun, the Temple of the Three Windows, and the Condor. If you want to get a gorgeous view of the ruins from on high, take the steep walk up to Waynapicchu.

Important Concerns


If you are planning to use the Machu Picchu trail, be sure you have spent several days relaxing in nearby Cuzco, Peru so that you can become acclimated to the high elevation. If you try to do too much too early, you are likely to suffer from altitude sickness which, if left untreated, can be fatal.

Another issue is cost. Hiking into the ruins will cost you a hefty sum of money. Prices for a four day hike should be at least $350. Be sure you know exactly what is included in the price.

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