Lima / Cusco / Machu Picchu / Inca Trail / Arequipa / Puno / Iquitos / Manu / Madre de Dios / Huaraz / Northern Highlands / Northern Coast

The Sacred Trail (a shorter 2 day version of the Inca Trail)

The newer, shorter, alternative to the full Inca Trail is a very beautiful walk that is an excellent alternative for people who do not have the time for the full Inca Trail. This includes some stunning views and some very beautiful Inca ruins. The walk is done over two very easy days. The first day the walk is from km 104 of the train line to Wiñay Wayna, a total of about 6km over two hours. The second day, the walk is from Wiñay Wayna to Machu Picchu, a total of 8km taking about two hours. There is then a tour of the site of Machu Picchu, before returning to Cusco in the afternoon.

The train to km104 is usually the Backpacker, getting to the starting point around 11.30am. You cross the river here, with a very beautiful view of the surrounding mountains and the Urubamba River. There are some modern buildings on the other side of the river where you must register and show your entrance ticket. There are also toilets here. Most groups will have lunch here before starting the trail. Just beyond the first checkpoint are the interesting ruins of Chachabamba. The trail climbs rapidly from the starting point, taking about two hours to get to Wiñay Wayna, or longer if the walk is taken leisurely. The walk offers some very beautiful views, with the ruins of Choquesuysuy visible below next to the hydroelectric plant, and the Inca terracing of Inti Pata on the hill in front. Just before arriving at Wiñay Wayna the trail passes a beautiful waterfall. After seeing the spectacular site of Wiñay Wayna, you camp by the visitors’ centre, five minutes from the ruins. It is also possible to sleep in the visitors’ centre, although few of the groups actually do so. There are showers and food available at the centre, as well a shop selling snacks and drinks, including beer. The following day is identical to the fourth day of the full Inca Trail.

Information used with the kind permission of www.llamatravel.com - holidays to Peru from £799. © Llama Travel Ltd (UK).
Web Site © Peru Tourist Information (Peru)