Cusco is recognized as the 'Archaeological Capital of America'.
Cusco, Cuzco or Qosqo are the names by which the ancient capital of the Inca Empire is known. It is a center for archaeological scholars from all over the world who come to Peru to discover the wonders of Machu Picchu and the other ruins scattered throughout the valley.
It was an important administrative center for the Spanish Empire (Viceroyalty of Peru), and can be seen in the large number of manifestations of colonial art and architecture that can be found throughout the city and especially its Plaza de Armas. Today, Cusco is the largest tourist center in the country, receiving more than one million visitors a year.
Cusco is the oldest urban settlement in all of the Americas, more than 3,000 years old, but pre-ceramic samples have been found as old as 5,000 years. The origins of the first inhabitants of the city are lost in legend. Inca legends say that the founders of the city were Manko Qhapaq and Pachakuteq.
At the top of the mountain, large and impressive stone blocks joined together, the most important political and religious center of the Inca empire: Machu Picchu.
Located in the heart of the Peruvian Andes, the sacred Inca citadel built around 1450 and discovered in 1911, still hides enigmas and mysteries about its real purpose that remain hidden to this day and arouse the interest of both visitors and archaeologists from around the world.
Due to its strategic location on top of a high mountain, there are several theories about what it could have meant to the Incas. Some argue that it was built as a great mausoleum for the Inca Pachacutec, while others claim that it was an important administrative and agricultural center whose cultivated areas were used for the sustenance of its inhabitants. However, it is also considered that it was used as a necessary link between the Andes and the Peruvian Amazon or as a resting place for the Inca governor.
The truth is that Machu Picchu is one of the greatest symbols behind the impressive architecture and engineering of the Inca Empire. Although its origin is still under study, the value and transcendence it represented in its time, as well as its imposing design, have earned it to be considered one of the seven wonders of the modern world.
The tour to the Sacred Valley of the Incas in Cusco, is one of the most classic and incredible tours, where you can explore small villages outside the city of Cusco and also its archaeological sites.
The Sacred Valley of the Incas is located 15 km (9 miles) north of the Inca capital of Cusco at 2,800 meters (9,186 feet). The Sacred Valley was once the Inca empire’s main point for the extraction of natural wealth, and one of the most important areas for corn production in Peru.
We have to admire the advanced agricultural techniques of the Incas and their system of andenería (terraces): system of platforms composed of small groups of farmland, arranged in the form of tiers on the hills, where crops are planted. The valleys were also a place of worship to the Pachamama (mother earth).
The Sacred Valley is a must-see destination in Peru and has become one of the most important tourist centers in the country. There are numerous impressive Inca ruins, such as Ollantaytambo, Pisaq and Moray. The Sacred Valley also has two of the most important handicraft markets in the Cusco region: Pisaq and Chinchero.
The Inca Trail is not the only route to Machu Picchu. The city of Machu Picchu was connected by a network of roads known as Qhapaq Ñan.
The great adventure of the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu is for those who live passionately, always looking for a new experience!
The Inca Trail is a fascinating dream to fulfill and is the most famous trek in all of South America. The beauty of the views and the archaeological sites surrounding the Inca Trail are unsurpassed.
This tour is ideal for those who are full of energy to hike to Machu Picchu on the trip of a lifetime with the Classic Inca Trail 4 days 3 nights.
The Inca Trail Peru is a well established trek that takes travelers from km. 82 (the starting point 40 minutes from the town of Ollantaytambo) to Machu Picchu through the Sun Gate (also called Inti Punku).
Se trata de la montaña de los Siete Colores, también conocida como Vinicunca o Arcoíris.
Also known as the “Hill of 7 colors”, vinicunca, and colorful mountain, gift of nature for the enjoyment of our eyes. This unique mountain is located more than 100 km from the Imperial City of Cusco, belonging to the town of Pitumarca, is one of the main tourist attractions of Peru recently discovered and made known in 2016.
Vinicunca means “mountain of colors”. It is also known as Rainbow Mountain, Cerro Colorado or in English as Rainbow Mountain. It is located at 5200 meters above sea level and belongs to the Ausangate snow-capped mountain in the Vilcanota mountain range, it is the fifth highest mountain in Peru.
Its coloration is natural due to the large amount of sedimentary stones in erosion, what makes it so beautiful and impressive is how these stones are formed to give it the appearance of a rainbow (7 colors).
Although it is commonly called Rainbow Mountain (Cerro Colorado or Seven Colors Mountain), its real name is Vinicunca, which comes from Quechua.
If you are looking for a hike out of the ordinary, here are the hikes you are looking for
In Cusco you will find countless activities and tourist routes that you can explore; many of them include a visit to Machu Picchu, whether you are looking for a quiet and classic tour or adventure experiences with a touch of immersion with the coexistence with local people.
Live exciting moments in real contact with nature that remains untouched by the hand of man, all well preserved; walk in contact with nature, and the local fauna; if you are patient you will see many animals that come out to walk trusting; since each one is prohibited.
Enjoy hikes of 2 to more days; enjoy good food along the route; professional local guides and discover the magic of visiting this beautiful country that awaits you.
Exciting adventures, all over Peru, wide variety of experiences.
Peru has become in recent years the most fashionable destination in South America. There is no shortage of reasons: an impressive variety of ecosystems, breathtaking landscapes, beautiful cities full of history, culture, traditions, beaches, fauna, flora… and, of course, its delicious and famous gastronomy.
From the Amazon to the desert, from the high peaks of the Andes to the Pacific, passing through the valleys and high plateaus, the country enchants with its incredible contrasts. Although the reasons to visit the country are really endless, we want to show you some compelling arguments for you to embark on the exciting adventure of discovering it. Are you up for it?
Every place on Earth is fascinating and unique, but Peru is one of those countries that manages to be above average. This place has so many natural and cultural treasures that have fascinated people for hundreds of years, and still fascinate them today. There are thousands of reasons to go to this great destination, here are just some of the reasons why you should visit Peru.
4 Days from $ USD 100.00
Inca Trail to Machu Picchu 4 Days / 3 Nights
Inca Trail 4 Days – For communication between the regions of the empire, the Incas built a network of roads called “Inca Trail”. These roads were built of stone, for two to three people to travel accompanied by their llamas. One of the most conserved roads is the one that connects Cusco to Machu Picchu.
Going through this path leads the visitor to return to a millenary past, seeing geographical scenarios of great magnitude. Throughout 42 km mysterious landscapes and archaeological vestiges are observed, with a rich flora and countless species of fauna in their natural habitat. It is worth remembering that the Inca Trail is one of the most important trekking paths and camps in the world. a height of 3000 to 3400 meters.
The excursion to Machu Picchu by the Inca Trail in Peru is one of the most incredible tours that Peru can offer, due to the beautiful landscapes, history and culture behind these trails leaves more than one surprised.
In our tour we will travel a part of the famous Qhapaq Ñan which is a circuit of multiple roads that united the Inca empire, in 4 days we will know more of this wonderful culture to culminate in one of the 7 wonders of the world, Machu Picchu.
Located about 2,500 meters above sea level, Machu Picchu was an Inca citadel that was built in the fifteenth century. The citadel was built as a royal hacienda, although it was used for less than 100 years before being abandoned when, due to the arrival of the Spaniards, they set out to conquer it.
It was not until 1911 when the ruins were rediscovered by archaeologist Hiram Bingham III. Although the locals knew about the ruins, it was not until Hiram climbed the mountain himself that he realized how spectacular his (re)discovery was.
To curb the damage caused by tourism, entrance to Machu Picchu is “limited” to 6,000 people per day, divided into morning and afternoon entrances. Although it may seem like a lot, tickets are usually sold out months in advance. For that reason, it is necessary to make your reservation in advance.
Even more so now that the capacity of Machu Picchu 2021 has been reduced to 50% due to the pandemic, so it is recommended to book in advance.
Machu Picchu. It is the reason many of us
Departure from the hotel at 6:30 am, by private transportation to the town of Chilca. After completing the paperwork at the Archaeological Park, we will start the walk 5 to 6 hours along the Urubamba River. Making stops at the ruins of Llactapata and then continue until you reach the town of Huayllabamba where the camp will be set up.
1, Easy
After breakfast, we will start the day to climb to 4,200 meters above sea level, that day we will have a greater physical demand, because the road is a constant climb through the forest and reaching the Warmiwanausca pass the highest point of the road, where we can appreciate a wonderful panorama Map of semi tropical valleys, mountains, peaks with perpetual snow. Camp in Runcuracay or Pacaymayo.
1, Easy
After breakfast, walk for two hours to reach Intipunku (with the possibility of admiring the sunrise) entrance to the majestic archaeological complex of Machi Picchu can observe the beautiful scenery formed by the sunbeams that bathe the lost city of the Incas, being able to stay for several hours. At the scheduled time I descend to the train station to return to the city of Cusco.
1, Easy
We are clear that not every traveler can spend thousands of dollars to visit a destination in the world and that is why we offer a cheap Inca Trail service in 2023.
It is important to keep in mind that spaces are limited and that makes the Inca Trail route, has high costs. But you can access the Inca Trail route cheap with our group service.
The difference is the type of service, the cheap Inca Trail goes with large groups and includes only the necessary equipment for your trek and you will need to bring the trekking equipment.
As far in advance as possible. The government has strictly limited the number of people allowed on the Inca Trail Peru (permits are issued to about 200 hikers per day plus 300 porters). Therefore, we recommend that you try to make your Inca Trail to Machu Picchu reservation as far in advance as possible.
There is no government restriction on the age limit for the Inca Trail Tour. All children under the age of 18 must also be accompanied by an adult. We require that all our hikers over the age of 64 hire the service of an additional half porter (6 kg).
Hikers over the age of 64 should also consult with their doctor before starting the hike to verify that they are fit to participate. They should follow their doctor’s recommendations, even if this means canceling their trip reservation.
We also recommend that clients over the age of 64 arrive in Cusco at least 3 days before starting the trek (instead of the usual 2 days). We recommend that all clients over the age of 59 speak to their doctor in advance about the best way to plan the trek and also to ensure that their travel insurance covers such adventurous activities.
We offer standard meals as well as a vegetarian meal option free of charge in the 4 Day Inca Trail Price. Just let us know if you would like vegetarian meals when you book your trek. Vegetarian meals have no red meat, chicken or fish.
We have many clients who have allergies to nuts, wheat, etc. Please give us details of your allergy at the time of booking. Indicate the nature of the reaction and what type of medication to take in case of emergency. Clients with allergies must be accompanied by a friend on the trek who is aware of your allergy and information on any medication required.
You must disclose at the time of booking any medical conditions that may affect your ability to do the Inca Trail Trek. People with heart conditions, knee problems, severe asthma or pregnant women should not participate in the trek. People with mild asthma/diabetes should consult their doctors and follow their advice. They will also be asked to be accompanied by a trekking companion on the trek at all times who will walk at their sides and be familiar with the necessary medications in case of emergency.
The best time to trek is between mid-April and late October, when the weather is typically dry and sunny. The dry season is during the months of June, July and August, which is also winter in Peru, when temperatures can be expected to drop to freezing in the early morning hours. January, February and March are summer in Peru, but in Cusco and on the Inca Trail Peru, this also corresponds with the wet season.
Toilets have been built along the Inca Trail Peru, including all the main campsites.
This has greatly helped to improve sanitary conditions on the trail, although conditions are not always perfect. Each toilet block has cold water. We recommend that you use hand sanitizer after visiting the public restrooms.
There is a charge of S/.1 for using the toilets in the Wayllabamba district (1st day of trekking) as these toilets have been built on land owned by the community. However, these toilets are usually much better maintained than the government toilets.
The entire Inca Trail 4 Days 3 Nights takes 42 kilometers (26 miles) to hike. Because all campsites are determined by the authorities, we cannot say exactly how many kilometers per day you will hike, or which of the campsites the group is assigned to, but be prepared to hike at least 6 hours per day up to 8 hours. However, don’t worry! This is an opportunity to take amazing photographs of the surrounding landscape and make these memories last forever.
The highest point of the Traditional Inca Trail is at 4,200 meters above sea level, you will spend the night in camp at 3,600 meters.
It is difficult to say if you will really suffer from altitude sickness, people are different and are physically prepared differently. Most hikers do not have any problems, but two days of rest in Cusco to acclimatize is highly recommended, drinking water and chewing cocoa leaves will definitely prepare you for the Inca Trail.
It is absolutely at your discretion, but tipping is certainly appreciated. Generally $5-8 per day is appropriate and appreciated.
We will provide tents that are included in the 4 Day Inca Trail Price, which our porters will set up every night at the camp.
In addition, each hiker is provided with a bowl of hot water and a hot drink every morning.
You can buy extra water for yourself on the trail. We provide boiled water every morning, at lunch and in the evening after dinner. We recommend bringing a refillable water battle to reduce the amount of waste.
In an open group of shared services there will be a minimum of 4 people and a maximum of 16. When there are more than 8 people in the group, we provide an additional guide. Our average group size is 8 people.
Trekking poles make walking long distances much easier on the legs by spreading the work over the whole body. That’s why experienced hikers use them. If you have never used poles before, they may be uncomfortable, but they will generally help. We include trekking poles in the 4 Day Inca Trail Price.
It depends on where you are on the trek.
If you decide you want to abandon the trek on the first day or early on the second day, one of our trekking team members will guide you back to the start. After this point, it will be quicker to continue on to Machu Picchu.
If you return to the start of the trek, we will help you get to the village of Machu Picchu to meet the rest of your group once you arrive. Of course, you will need a hotel in Ollantaytambo and also buy a train ticket to get to Machu Picchu town, which you can buy at the Ollantaytambo station.
If things get too serious, we can bring a helicopter to take you up, which is another reason why you should take out good travel insurance.
Our guides are very patient and understanding. You can walk at your own pace that suits you without the worry of being left behind.
Most hotels in Cusco offer luggage storage and will store your luggage until your return to Cusco. If you prefer, we have a lock-up at our office in Cusco.
If you are staying at a hotel in the Sacred Valley the night before your departure, you can leave your luggage at the hotel. On your return trip by train, you will disembark in Ollantaytambo and return to your hotel to pick up your luggage.
In Cusco, I am your travel specialist, with more than 10 years of experience organizing adventure trips.
Thank you for your interest in having an adventure travel experience in Peru operated by South Winds Peru. Please take a moment to complete our short form so that one of our friendly adventure consultants can provide you with all the information for the best trip of your life in Peru.
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