To all lovers of beautiful ancient and mystical destinations, Machu Picchu is one of those holy grails of travel and is definitely on the wish list. We present to you 5 reasons to visit this place and to hike the Inca trail to Machu Picchu.
The Mystery Of Machu Picchu
This ancient Inca city, Peru, is definitely one of the most visited tourist destinations in the last 20 years around the world. Spectacular buildings, which are located on a rather inaccessible plateau and represent the last refuge of the Incas, the natives of Peru, for whom it is a mystery why and how they disappeared. Machu Picchu was discovered in 1911, and today it is on the UNESCO World Heritage List, to preserve this site in the most original edition possible.
Previously, the entrance to this destination was free – which, of course, negatively affected the preservation of buildings because not all tourists treated the ruins with respect. However, since 2011 the entrance is charged – and there are specific and strict rules and restrictions when it comes to visiting this location.
Planning Is Necessary For This Kind Of Adventure
In addition to money, a visit to Machu Picchu requires detailed planning months in advance. For a start, there is a limit of visits to only 2,500 people a day – which is why tickets are often distributed a few months in advance. That’s not the only thing you have to think about. Three years ago, slightly different rules applied to tourists. For example, entry is now only possible with a guide, when you must book in advance.
Some years ago, it was possible to spend the whole day at the site – but now your potential time in this ancient city is limited, that is, tours are possible in the morning and afternoon. Also, it is no longer possible to return to the site, once you have left it – so make sure to use your reserved term to the fullest. Tourists cannot move freely around the location but must stick to the marked paths.
Thinking About Hiking The Inca Trail To Machu Picchu?
Surrounded by magnificent mountain peaks and at 2,430 meters above sea level, the legacy of the great Incas that lies almost beneath the sky itself is truly amazing. According to EvolutionTreksPeru – you will be left breathless and speechless if you try to describe this place, which makes it an even more important locality that you should see at least once in your life. Here are 5 reasons why you should hike the Inca trail to Machu Picchu and make Peru one of your priorities when it comes to travel.
1. Learn More About The Ancient Inca People
While admiring the place, you will also admire and learn more about the splendor of the Incas and their culture. At its height, the extraordinary Inca empire spread from Peru to Ecuador, Bolivia, Chile, Argentina, and parts of Colombia. Their profound influence is found throughout Peru and other parts of South America.
2. Enjoy Unraveling The Mystery
The function of the ruins left behind by the ancient Inca people is still a debate among archaeologists. As a kind of compromise, the opinion was accepted that Machu Picchu was built as a property for the great Inca Pachacuti. Also, these areas are considered a place of pilgrimage for all worshipers of the great Inca leader. Pilgrimage to this locality is a path now called the Inca Trail.
3. Architecture
The buildings are really impressive. Even today, we wonder how the Incas managed to achieve such engineering geniality. Their architectural precision is simply stunning – especially on this small part of land located almost in the clouds. What we know today is that the Incas were familiar with a technique called Ashlar. It is a technique where stone blocks are cut off and then firmly joined without plaster. The stones are so solid and stale that you can hardly believe that this technique was used in ancient times. It is also a testament to the structural integrity of this place that has survived to this day despite wars, earthquakes, constant rain, and, now – numerous tourist visits.
4. Culture
Cusco and the areas surrounding Machu Picchu are extremely rich in cultural landmarks. They represent a combination of Andean tradition and Peruvian culture – with people who speak both Quechua language and Spanish in the area. Everything you will see, from fabric to language – is different from everything else you can see in the world.
5. Adventure
You’ll feel like you’re discovering something for the first time when you set foot on this sacred terrain – especially if you’ve just completed a four-day Inca trail tour.
Rules You Must Obey When Visiting Machu Picchu
When you visit this ancient place, you must respect its tradition but also the rules of conduct that apply there. Therefore, we draw your attention to this as well.
- You must not bring a bag or backpack, the dimensions of which exceed 40x35x20 cm. Otherwise, you will have to leave it at the entrance.
- You must not bring food or drink. Cigarettes are banned, even electronic ones.
- It is forbidden to bring: umbrellas and parasols, drones, camera stands/tripods – except with a previously specially obtained permit, which applies to professional photographers. Baby strollers, walking sticks, shoes with heels or hard soles, etc. – are also prohibited.
- It is forbidden to feed the animals, climb and lean on the walls within the complex, as well as touch, move and move anything.
- Inappropriate and risky behavior is prohibited, which includes nudity, jumping, lying down, running, singing, making noise, as well as advertising anything.
It is advisable to bring a bottle of water, a raincoat, or a waterproof jacket, as well as shoes suitable for hiking and cream with a protective factor. Make sure you keep your ticket and passport and of course – follow your guide. Some of these rules may seem superfluous to you but keep in mind that they were all introduced to protect this wonderful locality.
