Is the Machu Picchu Trek on Your Travel List?
All over the world there are memorable landmarks both natural and man-made; unforgettable treks that have been inspiring and rejuvenating human beings for centuries. The mysteries that surround some of these sites are still not fully understood. They spark an interest that makes us want to learn more about how the landmarks came to be. What it was like during that period in history for the people who built them; how and why did they build such things? One place that is continuously gaining popularity and allows visitors to experience both natural and man-made landmarks is Machu Picchu and the only way to get there is to do what is often referred to simply as the Machu Picchu Trek.
Located in the Urubamba Valley in Peru, the site lays atop a mountain ridge. The building of the site began in AD 1400 and was carried by out by the Incas. In 1527, it was abandoned during the Spanish conquest. Today, it is among the most popular adventure vacation destinations in the world and every year tourists from all over the world and of all walks of life travel long distances to make the trek to this awe-inspiring and highly mysterious historical site.
It takes four days to hike the Inca Trail that leads you to Machu Picchu and although the hike can be difficult at times, it is worth every second! You of course will need to be well prepared to do a hike like this. You will need food, water, clothing, a tent and sleeping bag. The temperatures can vary from cold to very hot; layers are best so you can remove and put on clothing as you need it. A trekking pole may be helpful as well especially if you are carrying a lot of gear. Once you reach the site, you will feel like you are on top of the world and, in a way, you practically will be as you explore these ruins that were once home to a culture and race of people that we still have a lot to learn about!
