Contributed by Jackie Temzy
Peru is an ancient country with a complex history. The Incan Empire, who lived here from around 1200 AD, played a vital role in the country’s development until it was conquered by the Spanish in the 1500s.
Peru is dotted with important historical sites that offer valuable insights into the ancient civilisations that shaped its unique story. Exploring these sites on foot is a fantastic way to appreciate the incredible beauty of Peru’s landscape – where majestic mountains meet lush rainforests and seep into rugged coastlines.
Of the many hiking trails throughout this rich country, here we offer you three that provide the best insights into Peruvian history.
The Inca Trail to Machu Picchu
The renowned Inca Trail is Peru’s most sought-after hiking route. This four-day, 20-mile hike takes you from the city of Cusco through the dense green jungle to the ancient Incan citadel of Machu Picchu, deep in the Andes Mountains.
Machu Picchu sits 2,430 metres above sea level and was built with astonishing architecture comparable to that of the Great Pyramids in Egypt. It was discovered just over 100 years ago in 1911, having sat undisturbed for centuries. As one of the best-preserved examples of man-made Incan structures, many consider it to be one of the most famed archaeological sites in the world. The Inca Trail also incorporates a series of other Incan ruins, including Patallacta, Phuyupatamarca, Runkurakay and Sayacmarca – which are all breathtaking.
San Pedro de Casta to Marcahuasi
A short yet difficult hike that offers awe-inspiring views at the end of its winding path is the Marcahuasi trail. Marcahuasi is a plateau in the Andes Mountains that rests 4,000 metres above sea level.
The rocks here have been eroded into curious shapes that resemble animals and human faces. Some people claim that these rocks are signs of pre-Incan cultures, whilst others believe them to be shaped by energy vortices and claim that the stones have healing powers. There’s certainly a mystical atmosphere at Marcahuasi, particularly at night when you can enjoy exquisitely clear views of the night sky.
This site is also home to Incan ruins believed to be army barracks and funerary towers. The trail to Marcahuasi is around five miles long, and begins in the village of San Pedro de Casta, which is a 6-hour drive from Lima.
Choquequirao
Choquequirao is found in the Apurimac Valley, and much like Machu Picchu is a lost ancient city full of wonder and mystery. As a lesser-known and significantly quieter hike, the 28-mile route is perfect for travellers seeking a more exclusive experience. However, the journey down the Apurimac Canyon is not for the faint hearted, nor is the tough climb back up through deep jungle to reach Choquequirao.
So far, less than half of the ancient city has been uncovered – but it already spans over three hilltops. It’s thought that in its entirety, Choquequirao is three times larger than Machu Picchu. The biggest draw of the Choquequirao trek is its obscurity. You’ll be accompanied by just a handful of other travellers, meaning you can take in the impressive views with all the awestruck peace and quiet that they deserve.
What are you waiting for?
Peru is an absolutely stunning country to explore on foot, and its fascinating historical sites make it all the more mesmerising. Now you know of three of the best historical treks the country has to offer, you can get started planning your next adventure.
About Our Contributor, Jackie Temzy
As an avid traveller and history-buff, Jackie enjoys sharing her adventures with others to help encourage them to embark on their own life-changing travelling experiences.
This piece was prepared online by Panuruji Kenta, Publisher, SEVENSEAS Media