Inca Trail is not trekking, it's a walking history, a god and nature discovery, and hiking to one of the world's top wonders: Machu Picchu. Trek the Classic Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, or trek the Luxury Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, either experience is pure magic. This trek mixes stunning Andean vistas, Incan ruins of a bygone era, and a good dose of cultural heritage that makes this one of those kind-of-once-in-a-lifetime vacations.
The crown jewel of this life experience is Qoricancha Expeditions, a veteran Cusco City tour company committed to providing quality, genuine trekking adventures to tourists.
The Inca Trail's Importance
One of the most popular hikes on the planet, the Inca Trail, is one of the oldest, having been built centuries ago as part of the vast system of roads built by the Incan Empire. It still exists today so that the visitor can hopefully see the nature and the history as much as many of the other trails are capable of.
Treking along the Inca Trail from Machu Picchu to Cusco, you are effectively taking the same routes taken by the messengers, pilgrims, and kings of old who had trekked the same paths a couple of hundred years ago. And with every stone step, there are the whispers of a civilization that presented us with such great monuments, agriculture, and holy temples.
Start Point: Inca Trail from Cusco City
It begins in Cusco City, the capital of the ancient Incan Empire and the current cultural capital. As a gateway to the Andes, Cusco prepares the tourist both physically and mentally for travelling. Its awe-inspiring architecture, vibrant bazaars, and iconic sites such as Qoricancha (Temple of the Sun) render the city itself a desirable destination.
Trekkers walk from Cusco to begin the Inca Trail at Cusco City and climb mountain passes, cloud forest, and isolated ruins to Machu Picchu.
Classic Inca Trail to Machu Picchu
To trekkers, the Classic Inca Trail to Machu Picchu is the ultimate adventure. It's a four-day, three-night trek over about 26 miles (42 kilometres) of stunning Andean scenery. Among the highlights of the trail are:
- Dead Woman's Pass (Warmiwañusca): Summit of the trek, with awe-inspiring views.
- Runkurakay and Sayacmarca: Incas' ruins that give us a glimpse into Incan life.
- Phuyupatamarca: "Cloud Town" is a mystical witness to the magical respect of the Incas towards the world.
- Sun Gate (Inti Punku): The unforgettable initial glimpse of Machu Picchu, irretrievably burned into memory.
The Classic trail attempts to do both worlds simultaneously, physical adventure and cultural experience, returns earned on trekking into the Lost City of the Incas with the utmost degree of accessibility possible.
Luxury Inca Trail to Machu Picchu
For those wishing to be comfortable yet not giving up the experience, the Luxury Inca Trail to Machu Picchu is suggested. Luxury experience will typically be characterized by:
- Gourmet food prepared by experienced chefs.
- Upscale camping equipment or high-end hotels.
- Private services of skilled guides.
- Private lodges where the trekkers can relax.
No longer must adventure of the heart come at a price. Qoricancha Expeditions makes its travel with the trek at a higher level of comfort so that visitors of all ages and physical capabilities may enjoy this once-in-a-lifetime trek in its fullness.
Why Qoricancha Expeditions?
As a leading Cusco City tour operator, Qoricancha Expeditions understands that every traveller's experience is unique. Their expertise guarantees that whether Classic Inca Trail to Machu Picchu or Luxury Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, your experience is perfect and memorable.
Key reasons to book with Qoricancha Expeditions are:
- Experienced Guides: History, culture, and nature-enthusiast specialists.
- Safety First: Intelligent planning to keep the trekkers ready.
- Cultural Immersion: Encounters to embrace and become a part of local cultures and heritage.
- Personalized Experiences: From small group treks for an intimate atmosphere to customized private trips.
Excellence and love of authentic design them your greatest travelling companions on your Cusco to Machu Picchu journey.
The Reward: Arrival at Machu Picchu
Following days of trekking amidst stunning scenery, the payoff is finally in view, Machu Picchu. The tourists walk on foot across the Sun Gate and are the first to set eyes upon the legendary citadel, drenched in all its golden sunrise glow. It is an emotional and unforgettable moment when spiritual and material goals of the pilgrimage are finally attained.
Even the trek to Machu Picchu is a pilgrimage. From the Sun Temple to the fields, no square inch is devoid of the genius and religiosity of the Incas. There, with the Urubamba River in front and mountains at the back, you just don't know why the complex is on the UNESCO World Heritage.
Tips for Making the Most of Your Trek
To make your Inca Trail to Cusco City a lifetime experience, apply the following helpful tips:
- Book in Advance: Inca Trail individual classic tickets can be bought and are sold out extremely quickly.
- Acclimatize in Cusco: Acclimatize for at least two days in Cusco City at high altitude.
- Pack Cleverly: Pack layers, appropriate hiking shoes, and a solid rucksack.
- Stay Hydrated: The Weather in the Andes is harsh, and thus water is essential.
- Travel with Experts: Travel with a seasoned operator like Qoricancha Expeditions for safety and convenience.
Conclusion
The Inca Trail to Machu Picchu and the luxury option are not strolls. They're culture, history, and nature holidays all rolled in one tasty package. Taking the departure from Cusco City on the Inca Trail with such veterans as Qoricancha Expeditions, every step gets you closer to the hearts of the Incas.
From your initial step, taking the plane in Cusco to your breathtaking arrival at Machu Picchu, this hike guarantees why it's an adventure one will not soon forget.
