LYCOS RETRIEVER 
Inca Trail
built 632 days ago
A complete network of interconnecting roads linked Cusco to its provinces and other kingdoms and the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu was part of that system. Today it has become the most famous and popular trek in South America due to the variety of attractions it offers. The trail route lies within the Machu Picchu Historical Sanctuary, which was created by the government in 1981 to protect the natural beauty and the archaeological sites of this extraordinary area. This spectacular trail runs from high mountains down to cloud forest, passing through a number of diverse ecological zones filled with an enormous variety of plants and bird life. The route is ... studded with archaeological sites which lead the visitor to the lost city of the Incas; Machu Picchu.
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The Inca Trail is a mountainous trek. Although there are no parts were you have to resort to climbing on all fours there are a few sections that hug the mountainside with steep drops at the side of the trail. There are no handrails or fences so you must exercise caution. If overtaking fellow trekkers in these sections let them know that you are passing especially on the narrow sections. If you are the slow one then stop regularly to let others pass. Try to be patient and if you have children with you make sure that they are at your side at all times.
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The distances involved in hiking the Inca Trail to Machu Pichu are not that great. The entire 4-day trail hike is only 28 miles (45 km). However, the altitude can cause problems in the strongest hikers. For this reason all Adventure Life trips involving this hike spend a number of days at high altitude in order to acclimatize. The Machu Picchu Pilgrimage 10 Day tour spends nearly 3 days before beginning the hike and the Inca Pathways 14 Day tour spends nearly 6 days at altitude. NOTE: Many tour operators have Inca Trail tours that last only 7 or 8 days.
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Hiking the Inca Trail to Machu picchu has been famous all over the world for many years. The reasons are many, the fantastic nature with valleys, snowcapped mountains and great variety of plants, birds and animals. The Inca Trail to Machu picchu winds through the Andes, passing numerous significant Inca ruins en route before descending through the Sun Gate to the silent stone city of Machu Picchu. To hike the Inka Trail to Machupicchu is a thrilling experience and a very great priviledge. But the Inka Trail 4 days is much more than a great hike. It is one small portion of an incredible network of such trails crossing high stony mountain ranges, bleak deserts, and raging Andean rivers, tying the Inka Empire together.
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IMPORTANT: Due to regulations brought in in 2002, the Inca Trail (5, 4 or 2 days) is limited to 500 people per day (including Guides, porters and cooks). It is therefore necessary to book in advance to guarantee a place on the date you want to leave. For Inca Trail treksin the high season (June, July, August and September) it is advisable to book at least 4 months ahead
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The Inca Trail is considered a moderate to strenuous trek, including consistent uphill hiking at altitudes of 10-13,000 feet. Participants should be in good physical condition, and maintain a regular exercise program at for at least 3 months prior to their trip. Previous hiking experience, as well as a pair of broken-in hiking boots are ... required!
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Inca Trail