Machu Picchu, one of the most iconic landmarks in the world, is located in the Andes Mountains of Peru. It’s a destination that attracts thousands of visitors each year who are eager to experience its stunning beauty and ancient history. Many people choose to reach Machu Picchu by trekking through the surrounding mountains, with various trails to choose from. But how long is the trek to Machu Picchu, and which route is the best for you? In this article, we will explore the different trekking options, their lengths, and what you can expect along the way.
Understanding the Trek to Machu Picchu
The trek to Machu Picchu is a challenging yet rewarding journey that can take anywhere from a few days to several weeks. The most popular route is the Inca Trail, but other options like the Salkantay Trek, Lares Trek, and the Choquequirao Trek also lead to this ancient site. The duration of each trek varies depending on the route you choose, the pace at which you walk, and the number of rest days you take along the way.
The Inca Trail: The Classic Trek
The Inca Trail is the most famous and traditional trekking route to Machu Picchu. It is a 4-day, 3-night hike that covers a distance of approximately 26 miles (42 kilometers). The trek begins at Kilometer 82, near the town of Ollantaytambo, and ends at the Sun Gate (Inti Punku), which offers a breathtaking view of Machu Picchu.
Day 1: Starting the Journey
The first day of the Inca Trail is relatively easy. You’ll begin at the starting point, Kilometer 82, and hike for about 5-6 hours to reach the first campsite, at Ayapata. Along the way, you will pass through beautiful valleys, rivers, and Inca ruins, giving you a glimpse of what’s to come.
Day 2: The Toughest Day
Day 2 is considered the hardest day of the Inca Trail. It involves a steep climb to the highest point on the trail, Dead Woman’s Pass, at an altitude of 13,780 feet (4,215 meters). The trek takes about 6-7 hours, with some sections being quite challenging. After reaching the pass, you’ll descend to the second campsite, where you’ll rest and recover.
Day 3: The Final Push
On Day 3, you’ll hike for 6-7 hours, passing through lush cloud forests, Inca ruins, and impressive views of the surrounding mountains. This day is less physically demanding compared to Day 2, but the altitude and long distance can still be tiring. You’ll camp near Wiñay Wayna, an impressive Inca archaeological site.
Day 4: Reaching Machu Picchu
On the final day of the trek, you’ll wake up early and head towards the Sun Gate, where you’ll get your first glimpse of Machu Picchu. From there, you’ll descend into the ancient city itself, where you’ll have time to explore and take in the stunning views before catching a bus to the town of Aguas Calientes.
The Salkantay Trek: A Longer and Tougher Alternative
If you’re looking for a longer and more challenging trek to Machu Picchu, the Salkantay Trek is a great option. This trek takes 5 days and 4 nights to complete and covers a distance of approximately 46 miles (74 kilometers).
The Salkantay Trek is known for its stunning mountain scenery, diverse landscapes, and the challenge it presents to trekkers. The trail takes you through high-altitude mountain passes, lush forests, and cloud forests before finally reaching Machu Picchu.
Day 1: Starting the Trek
The first day of the Salkantay Trek is a relatively easy walk that takes you through small villages and along a river. The journey is about 10 miles (16 kilometers) and takes around 5-6 hours to complete. You’ll camp at the base of Mount Salkantay, one of the highest peaks in the area.
Day 2: Climbing to the Salkantay Pass
Day 2 is one of the most difficult days of the trek. You will need to climb to the Salkantay Pass, which sits at an altitude of 15,213 feet (4,638 meters). The climb is challenging, but the views from the top are worth the effort. After reaching the pass, you’ll descend into a lush valley where you’ll camp for the night.
Day 3: Descending into the Cloud Forest
On Day 3, the trail begins to descend into the cloud forest, where the vegetation changes dramatically. This day is much easier, with the trek lasting around 5-6 hours and covering 12 miles (19 kilometers). You’ll camp at a site near the village of Aguas Calientes, the gateway to Machu Picchu.
Day 4: Reaching Machu Picchu
Day 4 is the final stretch of the Salkantay Trek. After a short hike, you’ll arrive at the famous Sun Gate and catch your first view of Machu Picchu. Afterward, you’ll take a bus down to Aguas Calientes for the final leg of your journey.
The Lares Trek: A Cultural Experience
The Lares Trek is a 4-day, 3-night journey that offers a more cultural experience compared to the Inca Trail and Salkantay Trek. The total distance covered is around 22 miles (35 kilometers), and the route is known for its remote villages, scenic landscapes, and vibrant Andean culture.
Day 1: Begin the Trek
The first day of the Lares Trek involves a 6-hour hike through the beautiful Sacred Valley. You will pass through traditional Andean villages, where you’ll meet local people and experience their way of life. The trek covers about 7 miles (11 kilometers) and ends with a night spent camping in a scenic location.
Day 2: Crossing the Lares Pass
On Day 2, you’ll climb to the Lares Pass, which sits at an altitude of 14,000 feet (4,267 meters). The trek to the pass is challenging, but the views of the surrounding mountains are stunning. After reaching the pass, you’ll descend to the village of Lares, where you’ll spend the night.
Day 3: Exploring the Sacred Valley
Day 3 of the Lares Trek is a more relaxed day, with a 5-6 hour hike through the Sacred Valley. You’ll pass through more villages and explore Inca ruins along the way. This day is a great opportunity to learn more about the culture and history of the region.
Day 4: Final Descent to Aguas Calientes
On the final day, you’ll descend into the valley, where you’ll catch a bus to Aguas Calientes and finally make your way to Machu Picchu.
Choquequirao Trek: The Longest Trek
The Choquequirao Trek is a long and remote trek that takes you to the lesser-known ruins of Choquequirao before heading to Machu Picchu. This trek lasts 8-9 days and covers about 48 miles (77 kilometers).
The Choquequirao Trek is challenging due to its length, elevation, and remote location. The trek is perfect for those looking for a more rugged and less crowded experience.
Other Trekking Routes to Machu Picchu
There are other, shorter trekking options available as well, such as the Inca Jungle Trek and the Vilcabamba Trek. The Inca Jungle Trek is a combination of biking, hiking, and rafting, lasting about 4 days and covering 32 miles (51 kilometers). The Vilcabamba Trek is a remote and lesser-known route that lasts 7-9 days and covers a distance of 49 miles (78 kilometers).
How Long Does It Take to Trek to Machu Picchu?
The duration of the trek to Machu Picchu depends on the route you choose, your fitness level, and the pace at which you walk. The Inca Trail is the shortest and most popular route, taking about 4 days. The Salkantay Trek and Lares Trek take about 5 days, while the Choquequirao Trek is the longest, lasting 8-9 days.
Considerations for Your Trek
When planning your trek to Machu Picchu, it’s important to consider factors such as altitude, weather, and your physical condition. Altitude sickness can be a concern, especially on higher-altitude treks like the Salkantay and Lares Treks. It’s recommended to acclimatize before starting your trek and stay hydrated along the way.
Conclusion
Trekking to Machu Picchu is an unforgettable experience that offers stunning views, cultural insights, and the chance to explore ancient Inca ruins. Whether you choose the popular Inca Trail, the challenging Salkantay Trek, or the cultural Lares Trek, each journey will provide you with a unique adventure. Be sure to choose the route that suits your fitness level, time frame, and interests, and prepare for an unforgettable trek to one of the world’s most famous landmarks.
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