History
The Inca Empire spread over western South America from 1200 to 1533. Spanish conquistadors and smallpox wiped out much of the population. The Inca Trail is a remnant of the extensive road system.
Time Frame
In four days, you can trek the challenging 25 miles over three mountain passes, peaking at 13,776 feet. You must go with a licensed guide, which requires advance reservations.
Geography
The Inca Trail traverses the Andes from high plateau to cloud forest. Next to Cusco and below Machu Picchu, you'll view the Urubamba Valley, or Sacred Valley of the Incas.
Features
Guided tours have local guides, porters and cooks. With some agencies, you will only have to carry a day pack.
Weather
The dry season is May to September. All year, night temperatures in the mountains can fall below zero degrees F.
Fun Fact
Machu Picchu was hardly mentioned in the writings of Spanish conquistadors. In 1911, a local boy led American archaeologist Hiram Bingham to the site. Its mysteries are still unsolved.
Article Written By Kelly Aspen
Kelly Aspen's writing focuses on natural places, cultural sites and wildlife. She has nine years of experience as an editor and writer for magazines, books and websites, including Trails.com, Travels.com and Weekendnotes.com. She attended Vassar College and now lives in the mountains of Colorado.
