Sunday, October 3, 2010
Peru, Machu Picchu and the Inca Trail
While going through some photos this morning, I sat in awe as I distinctly remember my trip to Peru in South America and my 4 day trek of the Inca Trail.
Geographically, Machu Picchu is located partly in the Andes and partly in the Amazon rainforest. The perculiar emplacement of the citadel is characterized by tropical vegetation. This type of ecosystem is the habitat of unique species of flora and fauna, some of them threatened with extinction.
In order to complete the Inca Trail, you need to have a reasonable level of fitness, age shouldn't be an obstacle. It is essential to be well acclimatized to the altitude. The maximum height above sea level along the way is 13779 feet above sea level (4200 masl). If travelling from sea level it is reccommended to spend at least 2 days in Cusco before attempting the trek. Visiting the city of Cusco, the ruins of Sacsayhuaman and the gorgeous Sacred Valley of the Incas is ideal for acclimatization.
Once you have completed the inca trail hike and if a day can be squeezed in your itinerary, it is highly recommended to stay overnight in Aguas Calientes and return to Cusco on the fifth day - giving you more time to explore Machu Picchu and the surrounding area - hike the orchid trail, Huayna Picchu ascent or just wonder around.
My personal memories of this trip are still very alive and well. I would have to say it was one of the most memorable and amazing experiences of my life. I can still visualise the rugged mountains, the clean fresh air, the fittest sherpers one would find and the friendliest people on earth.
If you want to challenge yourself while experiencing an amazing and unique holiday, I highly reccomend incorporating this trek in your South American holiday and definitely visiting Peru.
Qantas fly direct from Sydney to Buenos Aires and you can then connect with Aerolineas or Lan Peru from there, a stopover in Buenos Aires is also reccommended. This is just one option, there are so many others.
Let us plan and book your South American Adventure holiday, you can contact one of our professional consultants who will help plan your itinerary to this amazing and unique part of the world!
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