Five Reasons to Hike the Inca Trail
Peru’s 28-mile Inca Trail-once part of the Inca’s impressive transportation system-is typically broken up into four days of hiking. It’s considered one of the best treks in the world, and with good reason.
5. No intense pre-training required. Most reasonably fit people will find the trek challenging but very doable. You can even opt to hire an extra porter to carry your backpack. And while altitude sickness can be a potential problem, by taking precautions-such as allowing time to acclimatize before the start-it’s easily avoidable.
4. Incredible-and varied-terrain. Along the trail you’ll pass through distinct ecological zones from high deserts to Andean cloud forests. You’ll encounter jaw-dropping vistas which are, perhaps, one of the main reasons this trek is so iconic.
3. Archeological sites. One of the most unique aspects of the trail is the number of Inca ruins you’ll encounter along the way. Only accessible from the trail, these sites display the Inca’s impressive stonework, irrigation systems, and agricultural methods. You’ll also walk up and down many ancient Inca staircases en route.
2. Flora and fauna. Bright, gorgeous flowers pop up along the trail-including nearly 200 species of orchids. More than 400 bird species may be seen flying over, and the endangered Spectacled Bear lives in the area. Domesticated llamas and alpacas, along with horses, donkey and cows, can be seen en route, too.
1. The grand finale. On the last day of the trek, you’ll wake up early to arrive at Inti Punku-the Sun Gate-an Inca structure overlooking Machu Picchu. From here, on a clear day, you’ll witness a breathtaking sunrise over the dramatic ruins-a well-deserved reward for your efforts and one that those who take the bus to Machu Picchu (who you may jokingly call cheaters) won’t experience. Then head down to explore the ruins with your guide.
