When considering a Peru Vacation, you need to ensure that you are able to complete the ultimate Inca rite of passage – the Inca trail!
The four day trek or one day trail takes you along one of the original Inca roads to the ancient citadel of Machu Picchu, a place that was once the reserve of Inca royalty and high priests.
Inca trail availability is tight; it usually books up months in advance, especially during the peak months of June, July and August.
The numbers allowed on the trail are restricted by the Peruvian government by issuing only a limited number of permits that includes the guides, porters and chefs as well as the actual trekkers.
By restricting access to the trail the government can ensure that the trail is preserved and it gives trekkers a better trekking experience.
Currently, there are no permits available until September 2010. This changes on a daily basis, though, so check with one of our Peru Travel advisors for more up to date information.
However, if you have already booked a Peru vacation, there are a number of alternative Inca treks available that are equally as beautiful and challenging.
Many of these treks can also include a trip to Machu Picchu via the town of Aguas Calientes, the town at the base of Machu Picchu and the final stop on the Cusco to Machu Picchu train.
There are also a number of other Peru treks that do not include a trip to Machu Picchu, but visit other impressive Inca ruins.
Well off the beaten track, treks through the Vilcabamba mountain range, offer some of the most breathtaking scenery in the remote Peruvian Andes.
Some of the routes even include recently discovered Inca towns and citadels; many have still to be excavated fully by archaeologists. Because of their remoteness, with access only after a few days of trekking, they have remained well-preserved.
Like the Inca trail trek, all the treks are fully guided, with equipment provided and with porters and chefs.
There are also a number of one day treks and adventure activities available in the Sacred Valley region that can easily be accessed from Cusco.
Whatever you decide to do, make sure you take the time to experience the best of what Peru has to offer: vistas, food and culture!
Plan your own Peru tour. Contact us and chat with an experienced travel advisor now!
Peru for Less is a group of travel experts who live, work, eat, and breathe all things South America. Their inspiration stems from a deep appreciation for the beauty and diversity that make this continent so special.
