The Inca Trail is the most famous hike in South America. Although the total distance is only about 39km, the ancient trail laid by the Incas from the Sacred Valley to Machu Picchu winds its way up and down and around the mountains, snaking over three high Andean passes en route, which have collectively led to the route being dubbed ‘the Inca Trail.’ The views of snowy mountain peaks, distant rivers and ranges, and cloud forests flush with orchids are stupendous and walking from one cliff-hugging pre-Columbian ruin to the next is a mystical and unforgettable experience.
Ausangate is one of the highest mountains in the Cusco region and is also an important cultural centre for the Andean communities. Every year huge pilgrimages are made to the mountain. This has been going on for centuries.
The peak of the mountain is 6,385 masl, but we won’t go quite that high. On this hike you’ll come close to nature and feel the connection while you observe the impressive views that surround you. You’ll get to observe some fascinating bird species and other wildlife along the way as well as spectacular landscapes.
Machu Picchu is consistently the #1 travel destination in the world. Why? The answer is simple: the experience is mesmerizing and unique. You aren’t merely driving up to the lookout, getting out of the car, and snapping a few photos; you are traveling to the depths of South America, into the heart of the Andes. Stumbling onto the Lost City of the Incas is just one part of the journey.
The Inca Jungle is an ultimate adventure tour to Machu Picchu where you combine several adventure sports, it is oriented to active people who likes to live different experience while enjoying the best natural landscapes together with the unique Inca culture. During the Inca Jungle trail to Machu Picchu, you partake in all of the following activities along the way. Biking routes, river rafting, hiking on ancient trails, bathing in hot spring and even winding up the middle of the jungle. An adventure that will make you live intensely all the way to Machu Picchu
The Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu is an alternative to the Inca Trail. It is considered by most to be the best alternative route. We think it’s the best route! Not only because of the rampant beauty you will encounter, but also because of the lack of people. Because it is more rugged and remote, the Salkantay Trek is significantly less populated than the Inca Trail. With formidable views and awe-inspiring vistas, this path less traveled has an unquantifiable value. It is truly, as deemed by the Inca, sacred.
The Inca Trail, even though it is the only route that ends directly at the entrance door to Machu PIcchu, was not the only one used by the Incas. Rather, they left behind a vast network of trails that crisscross through majestic mountains and little-visited archaeological sites – none of which require prior purchase of a permit unlike the classic Inca Trail. There is an impressive range of alternative treks to Machu Picchu, whether you are looking to hike for just one or several nights.
The former capital of the mighty Inca Empire, Peru’s city of Cusco is a fabulous base from which to explore fascinating archeological and historical sites, as well as enjoy time in nature. Although the city has much to be proud of, many of the area’s delights can be found beyond the city limits. Here are some of the best day trips to take from Cusco for a fabulous Peruvian adventure to remember.
Ausangate Trekking is a locally-owned tour operator company based in Cusco, Peru. At Ausangate Trekking we focus on providing a top-notch service for different treks and adventure tours to Machu Picchu and around Peru.Our owner and team members are passionate about our culture, traditions, and the wonderful mountains around Cusco as well as Peru.
