Machu Picchu and the Inca Trail

Machu Picchu before the crowds photo by Dawn Wohlfarth

V!VA User‘s Description

Framed by spectacular Andean peaks and surrounded by verdant jungle, the Inca Trail and Machu Picchu form an eye-tantalizing tribute to man in harmony with nature. Located high above the clouds, the streets, temples and staircases of Machu Picchu spread across a jungle ridge that eventually plunges more than 300 meters into the treacherous waters of the Río Urubamba below. Everything within this city, from the intricate terraces and delicate gardens to the complex system of aqueducts, was designed to both promote and preserve the sacred relationship between man and nature. Natural phenomena like the sun, moon, water and earth, were sacred to the Incas and were the inspiration for much of the city's layout.

Besides its awe-inspiring architecture and spiritual atmosphere, perhaps the most enchanting aspect of Machu Picchu is its relative historical ambiguity. Since it was first introduced to the modern world in 1911 by Yale archeologist Hiram Bingham, this mountain city has yet to reveal the purpose of its origins. A number of theories have circulated throughout intellectual circles, including one suggesting that it was a boarding school where the children of those conquered by the Incas were brainwashed. Despite, or perhaps due to its enigmatic character, Machu Picchu has become one of the single most popular destininations in South America, drawing nearly 2,000 people a day to its ancient grounds, high above the Sacred Valley.

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Traveler Reviews of Machu Picchu and the Inca Trail

Machu Picchu, Mystic and Magic

Rating: 100%

I'm really in love with Machu Picchu, and all of the Inca trails There are thousands of miles of excellent Inca trails. In the coast, you can find Puerto Inca, a very interesting archeological site. Puerto Inca is based on the beach, at sea level, from here the fish was taken to Cuzco by the Chasquis in 24 hours. They had to run for several miles on the Inca Trail across the Andes to get in a "tambo" and give the fish to other Chasquis, until they reach Cuzco. I recommend the Inca trail from Andahuaylas to Cuzco, this part of the "Qhapaq Ñan" (the main Inca Trail) begins at Pachuca Lake. This part is near Sondor, a Chancas Fortress, (the Chancas were famous for their fearless battles against the Incas). This part of the trail passes several important archeological sites, like Curumba and Saywite in Abancay. Here we take the trail for Choquequirao, and then directly to Machu Picchu by an alternative Inca Trail. If you like adventure, mountain biking or trekking, check outwww.intibike.com MTB Expeditions, to find the best Inca trails.

By V!VA User from Lima, Feb 12, 2008

Wow!

Rating: 100%

What an amazing and beautiful place.

By V!VA User, Jan 28, 2008

One Wonder

Rating: 100%

This place is beautiful....

By V!VA User from Peru, May 30, 2007