QHAPAC ÑAN – The Great and Incredible Inca Trail
To talk about the Qhapac Ñan or the royal Inca Road, is not only to discover and understand the high level of organization 500 years ago that the Incas or (the four states of the sun) had, but also through routes throughout South America and roads they were able to expand through one of the most difficult and rugged geographies of the world. Thanks to this «great Inca road» – as translated from Quechua into Spanish – the Inca state was able to better organize and administer its domains.
This network linked the entire Tahuantinsuyo (the 4 states of the sun) through the current countries of Argentina, Bolivia, Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Ecuador and Peru, crossing deserts, mountains, lakes, snowy mountains, swamps, all Inca trails started from Cusco (the capital of the Inca state). one of the most important road networks that went to Machu Picchu and also to Quito, the current capital of Ecuador
What is the best time of the year to hike the Inca Trail Peru?
The best recommendation to do the Inca trail is in the dry season or winter season. The days are warm and the nights are a bit chilly. During the months of April to September, you can expect to enjoy blue skies that will allow you to enjoy the landscapes. However, you must book your trekking tour at least 8 or 9 months of anticipation. FYI, the National Geographic identified that the Inca Trail is one of the top treks in the world
How many days does it take to hike the Inca Trail Peru to Machu Picchu?
This will depend upon your travel arrangements and your physical stamina. We offer the “Classic Inca Trail” for those of you who have a good hiking experience. The trekking tour lasts a total of 4 days.
Our other trekking tour package lasts 5 days. It’s for those who have a little bit more time to enjoy Peru, and especially Cusco. On this tour, you’ll hike small portions at a time to fully enjoy the surroundings and countryside.
Can you shower on the Inca Trail?
On your first day, you’ll have the option to take a HOT shower in the town called (Huayllabamba) at an additional cost of S/. 10.00 Soles.
On the second day and third days, you will have an option of taking solely a COLD shower. However, most hikers opt-out in using wet wipes.
The 4th day there are no showers available since the itinerary is fully packed along with your return to your hotel.
Other tour companies offer hot showers throughout the hike, but the cost of the tour is more expensive, it really depends on what comforts you are willing to do without.
Are there bathrooms/toilets on the Inca Trail?
There are bathrooms at certain points of the Inca Trail. At government facilities, you are provided with restrooms (you’ll need to take with you toilet paper). If you utilize private facilities the cost of using their restrooms is S/. 1.00 Sole.
Basically, you pay at some points on your first and second day. Day 3 and 4 in Machu Picchu there are only federal facilities and the cost for using the restrooms is S/. 2 Soles.
Are there bathrooms/toilets in Machu Picchu?
Within the “ruins” of the Inca city of Machu Picchu, there are no toilets. All hikers of the Inca Trail have to have their photo taken to exit the “Machu Picchu ruins” and proceed to use the restrooms to then re-enter the ruins to rejoin the tour guide. The cost for the restrooms is S/. 2.00 Soles.
How much do you tip porters on the Inca Trail Peru?
There are companies that include in their package tour the porters’ tips. However, there are other companies that lower their package tours and do not include the porters’ tips. Our recommendation is S/. 100.00 Soles for the 4-day tour. The porters will be with you throughout your tour to provide you with all your basic necessities and insights.
Can you drink the tap water in Peru?
Though Peru has a diversity of flora and fauna and has an abundance of natural resources (natural spring water), we recommend that you purchase bottled water or have the water boiled before you drink it. It’s best that you take the necessary precautions to not have an upset stomach during your visit or a trekking tour.
Is the Salkantay Tour hard?
Inca Trail is the number one sought out tour in Cusco. If you find that there are no more bookings, your next option can be the “Salkantay Trek”. The difference between the “Inca Trail” and “Salkantay” tours is that Salkantay trek is more adventurous.
According to previous hikers’ commentaries in Peru the “Inca Trail” is more difficult than “Salkantay” because the path is made of stone. Conversely, the “Salkantay trek” is actually higher in elevation than the Inca Trail. Thus, an extra horse is a must and there are even places where you will need vehicle transportation to get to Machu Picchu. The cost for the horse and vehicle transport is included in the package tour.
- See also: Salkantay trek 5 Days
Do they ever close down Machu Picchu?
Machu Picchu is open year around. However, the “Inca trail” is closed during February due to heavy rains in Cusco.
Do you have to be physically fit to hike Machu Picchu?
We definitely recommend that you exercise prior to doing any of the trekking tours in Cusco. Remember that Cusco is high in elevation and though it has flat surfaces it also has high terrains to climb. If you are trying to decide to do the Inca Trail or Salkantay trail, and are afraid of heights, we don’t recommend it.
- See Also: Full Day Machu Picchu Tour
Why is Machu Picchu dangerous?
Since its’ discovery in 1911, Machupicchu has been repaired and preserved to host many tourists around the world. Thus, it is not dangerous.
Please keep in mind that in the last several years, the Peruvian Government has tightened the influx of tourists due to corrosion and has implemented two strict visiting hours for the citadel of Machu Picchu. Visitors can book for either turn from 6:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. or from 12:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.
What is so special Machu Picchu?
There are many reasons why Machu Picchu is special. First and foremost it’s the Sacred City of the Incas that is difficult to access and sits in the middle of the jungle. It’s an original city and there is no other city like it. And it is listed as one of the wonders of the modern world.
What should I wear to Machu Picchu?
It is a hot and humid environment, it is advisable to wear light clothes during the day such as slippers or comfortable breathable tennis or running shoes, shirt(s), hat, sunglasses, a small backpack (30 liters) where you can carry your water, wallet, cell-phone, sun block, and insect repellent spray.
Are there mosquitos in Machu Picchu?
There are mosquitos but just in the dry season (May to August). But, we recommend you bring with you insect repellent anyway.
Can you bring a backpack to Machu Picchu?
Yes, you can bring a backpack into Machu Picchu, but no more than 30 liters. If you are doing the “Inca Trail” you can take with you a large backpack and once you enter the citadel of Machu Picchu you can check it into storage to have a more comfortable experience.
Do I need hiking boots in Machu Picchu?
If you go by train to Machu Pichu it is not necessary to take hiking boots. Tennis or running shoes will suffice. However, if you want to hike to the “Huayna Picchu” mountain we recommend taking hiking boots.
How difficult is the Inca Trail Peru?
The Inca Trail is a somewhat arduous path, so you’ll need to do exercise before doing the trek. The road is a stone walkway and you need to have good trekking equipment. From a range of difficulty of 1 to 5, I would say 3. We have had some folks who have completed the trek in 3 days.
Which is harder Inca Trail or Kilimanjaro?
The “Classic Inca Trail” to Machu Picchu is a maximum of 5 days of hiking, 3 or 5 hours per day, and the trailhead is 2,700 (masl) = 8,858 feet and the highest point is 4,200 (masl) = 13,779 feet. Thus, having good nutritional food on the Inca Trail and a great staff (guide, porters, cook) can make the experience much more comfortable so you can have an unforgettable experience passing through Sun Gate into one of the seven wonders of the world “Machupicchu”.
Kilimanjaro of course is also one of the top treks in the world. The difference is that the trek for Kilimanjaro is at least 6 days to 9 days maximum.
Inca Trail and Kilimanjaro are both beautiful treks. However, Kilimanjaro is a harder trek and where you can reach altitudes close to 6,000 (masl) = 19,685 feet, whereas on the “Inca Trail” you’ll reach altitudes of just 4,200 (masl) = 13,779 feet.
What is the hardest trek in the world?
According to National Geographic, it is climbing Everest.
Which is harder Kilimanjaro or Everest base camp?
There is no comparison. Kilimanjaro is done at a minimum of 6 days and up to 9 days. Everest can be done in 14 days.
How hard is the Kilimanjaro hike?
Kilimanjaro of course is one of the top treks in the world but the difference is that it lasts a minimum of 6 days and 9 days maximum, with an altitude close to 6,000 (masl) = 19,685 feet. From a range of difficulty of 1 to 5, I would say 4.
Can I hike the Inca Trail without tour guide?
Unfortunately, the answer is NO and it is required that you go through a certified travel company. Please be aware that if you want to do the “Inca Trail” you will have to book it at least 9 or 10 months in advance.
How much does it cost to hike the Inca Trail?
The Inca Trail is one of the most famous treks on our planet. That being said, there are different prices and of course, it depends on the company you book through.
The Back Packers (cheapest) price is around $ 450.00 and the most exclusive price is $ 2,000. The difference is in the type of comfort you prefer during your trek.
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