The Incan Trails in Cusco – Peru
This is part of 23,000 kilometers (approximately 14,000 miles) of roads built by the incas in south america, This is Peru’s most famous trekking route and one of the most spectacular in the Americas. Every year,some 25,000 hikers from around the world walk along the extraordinary 45 kilometers of this Stone – paved road built by the Incas leading to the unassailable citadel of Machu Picchu located in the depth of the Cusco jungle.
The Classic Inca Trail starts in the village of Piskacucho-km 82 (so called because it is 82 km along the road from Cusco to Aguas Calientes) and takes four days walking in many of the Inca Remains such as, Llactapata, Runkuracay, Sayacmarca, Phuyupatamarca, Intipata, Wiñaywayna.
The route includes an impressive variety of altitudes climates and ecosystems that range from the high Andean plain to the cloud forest.
All the travelers will cross two passes. The highest being Warmiwañusca at 4,200 m.the second one Runkurakay at 4,000 m.to culminate the hike with a magical entrance to Machu Picchu through Inti Punku (Sun Gate).
The Traditional Inca Trail.
This itinerary follows the same route as the Classic Inca Trail to Machu Picchu 4 Days. However you have the opportunity to visit the remains of Llactapata where you will camp on the first night. You will also camp at different less crowded campsites during your trek. Although you will arrive at Machu Picchu in the afternoon of the fourth day of the trek you will stay at a hotel in Aguas Calientes town) before returning to Machu Picchu for sunrise on the fifth day.
This itinerary is not as popular as the 4 day Inca Trail version so you will probably have to take a private trek which is fine if you have a group of friends.
The Short Inca Trail in 2 Days
This is a less strenuous route and starts at kilometre 104 along the railroad from Cusco to Aguas Calientes. The trail climbs up to Wiñay Wayna where you join the final stages of the Traditional Inca Trail.From Wiñay Wayna the trek then descends to Machu Picchu. This is a good option for visitors with limited time or who are not fit enough to complete the 4 day version.
The 2 Day Short Inca Trail has the advantage of allowing you to visit the beautiful remains Qanabamba, Wiñay Wayna and also to experience at least part of the Inca trail. Unlike the 4 day trek you do not need to be acclimatised to undertake the 2 Day Short Inca Trail since the trail is at a lower altitude
