Machu Picchu does not cease to amaze visitors. It left Hiram Bingham tongue tied when he viewed the scene in 1911 and since then millions have followed the trail to this fabulous outpost of the Incas in the Andes. This 15th century city built of stone is only 50 km from Cusco and you could reach there via a train ride or by taking a bus. However, there is nothing quite as satisfying as a trek along the fabled Inca trail to this fabulous UNESCO World Heritage site and watch the sun rise over the mountains.
There are several routes to the capital of the Incas but the most travelled one is the Inca trail to Machu Picchu. For the tough and seasoned trekker there is the Inca trail that starts at Cusco, takes you on to Wayllambamba, Pacamayo, Winay Wayna and then to Machu Picchu. However, not everyone is on top physical condition to undertake the rigorous day long trek at high altitudes over steep passes at heights of over 3000 metres. Just a short walk leaves most people gasping for breath in the rarefied atmosphere.
One of the better ways for normal people is to join Green Peru Adventures classic Inca trail to Machu Picchu. It takes four days but it easy on the body.You arrive in Cusco and join the group. The tour operator welcomes you to the waiting bus that takes you to a short trip to the Sacred Valley of the Incas. Enjoy breakfast at Ollantaytambo and fortify yourself for you will need the strength. The trek starts after the Rio Urubamba crossing. Enjoy lunch at Miskay and explore Llactapata archeological complex and then saunter on wards to Wayllabamba at a height of 3100 metres.
From here the group climbs up to Yuncachimpa at 330 metres before breaking off to camp for the night but not before enjoying a spectacular view of the Nevado Veranica bathed in the golden glow of the setting sun. Rise next day and travel at your pace onwards across Pacaymayu and Runkurakay pass to Chaquicocha. The third day gets you onwards to Wiayhuayna over passes at heights of 3700 metres. You pass through an Inca Tunnel before you arrive at the ruins of Wiaywayna.
The final leg is from here to Machu Pichu on day 4 where you head for the Sun Gate early at 4.30 AM to catch the Sunrise, a glorious sight. From here it is downhill to the ancient town of Machu Pichchu where you see the Sun temple, the terraces used for agriculture, the buildings, plazas and platforms and admire the handiwork of the ancient architects. It is time to return to Cusco by way of Aguas Calientes where the waiting bus transports you in relative comfort. Green Peru Adventure makes it fun and enjoyable while taking care of everything so you can focus on enjoying the hike and the totally enchanting scenery every step of the way.
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