What is Inca Trail to Machu Picchu?

Short Description

The Inca Trail to Machu Picchu is one of the most famous and emblematic trekking routes in the world. It is located in Peru and leads to the ancient Inca city of Machu Picchu.

More information

The Inca Trail crosses the impressive Andes mountain range and offers a variety of breathtaking landscapes, such as cloud forests, alpine tundras and subtropical jungle.

How high is the Inca Trail?

On average it has an altitude of 3600 meters, and its highest point is 4200 m (13825 feet), this is relative according to the season and is not an exact measurement.

Ruins

• Runkurakay
• Sayacmarca
• Phuyupatamarca
• Wiñay Wayna
• Machu Picchu
• Stairs: In addition to the ruins, the Inca Trail has stairs that are an integral part of the trail and a testament to the advanced engineering skills of the Inca civilization, if you want to know more about the ruins of the Inca Trail click on the link.

How long does it take to walk the Inca Trail?

The classic Inca Trail route usually lasts four days and starts in Piscacucho (km 82), covering approximately 42 kilometers. It combines hiking with the exploration of Inca archaeological sites.

How difficult is the Inca Trail?

The Inca Trail to Machu Picchu is considered a moderately difficult trek, mainly due to its altitude, distance and terrain, the trail reaches altitudes of up to 4,200 meters at its highest point, the Dead Woman’s Pass. The high altitude can cause altitude sickness for those who are not properly acclimatized.

Why is it called Dead Woman’s Pass?

Dead Woman’s Pass (known as “Warmi Wañusqa” in Quechua, the indigenous language of the Andean region). The name “Dead Woman’s Pass” is believed to derive from the shape of the surrounding mountain peaks, which some say resemble the profile of a lying woman’s face and body, and from a distance can give the appearance of a woman lying on her back. This silhouette is most evident when viewed from certain angles, and it is the resemblance to a woman in a supine position that gave it its name.

Can a beginner do the Inca Trail?

Yes, a beginner can complete the Inca Trail, but it is important to be well prepared and be aware of the challenges involved. The trail is considered moderately demanding, mainly due to its high altitude, steep ascents and descents, and its length, if you want to know more about Inca Trail for beginners click on the link.

why is it important?

The Inca Trail was important for several key reasons, both in the past during the Inca Empire and today as a tourist destination and cultural heritage site:

• Communication and Transportation Network of the Inca Empire.
• Advanced Engineering and Architecture
• Religious and Cultural Significance
• World Heritage and Tourist Attraction
• Conservation and Education