There are different ways to complete the journey between the Inca Trail and Machu Picchu, whether by bus or by foot, hiking through the forest. But whatever course you might choose, trekking the Inca Trail will fill you with awe. You’ll see a gorgeous landscape that was once the home of the brave Incas. So its beauty and the danger that lurks at every corner are magically combined in a land that belonged to a great civilization.
The trail starts at kilometer 82, and there are different ways to get there, but you’ll see fairytale villages and amazing vistas on the road. Afterward, it’s a hike up the Bicanota river, with steep grounds, villages and Inca ruins. You’ll even do some walking downhill, and get o another rapid river with fast flowing waters.
There are other villages you’ll see when camping along the way. They’re located in the middle of green pastures, and you can understand why the Inca civilization thrived here. But the climb through the Wayllabamba in your second day will take you through steep terrain, high and narrow passes and deep woods. You’ll need a reliable camping knife here to cut through all the thick brush.
The weather isn’t your friend either since the frying heat of the sun gives way to cold winds the higher you get. The rest of the way is filled with steep ruins and narrow descents, beautiful stone embankments, cliffs and deep precipices.
The Inca dwellings all through this route are majestic and humbling, taking you to a time long ago when they used to be tombs. Providing a happier counterpoint to these, there are cloud forests with a variety of flowers, including orchids and ferns.
The agricultural terraces show the importance of water to this culture. They used to worship it, knowing that water is closely connected to their survival. The religious feeling stems from every corner of the Inca dwellings, as well as the trail.
And don’t forget the campsites, which are located at different altitudes throughout the route. They are indeed safe grounds after you’ve crossed thick cloud forests and narrow passes, filled with drainages and ruins.
You’ll even get the chance to see lots of wildlife. The deer feel right at home on the shores of Lake Quchapata, and you might get the chance to spot a few. They have plenty of food in the area and the undulating terrain provides good shelter.
The viewpoints are amazing all throughout your journey. You’ll overlook valleys, lakes and the villages. The lush vegetation jungle hides various Inca tunnels, and the granite-carved ruins show sacrificial altars and fountains.
The trail waxes and wanes between Wiñay Wayna and the east side of Machu Picchu, getting even steeper before you reach the place known as the Sun Gate. This is a suggestive name because once you reach it, you’ll have a clear view of everything below.
And just like the Sun, you’ll oversee the ruins below, the treacherous roads, the beautiful meadows, and smile.