People all over the world know about Machu Picchu. You can find information about this place in various types of travel brochures, history books, and in social media. Although it is well known today, at one time it was relatively concealed. The citadel itself was abandoned by the Incas in the 16th century. It was used infrequently by local peasants until an American archaeologist discovered it once again in the early 20th century. By taking a Machu Picchu trek planned out with an experienced tour guide, you can get the sense of this ancient civilization that once was a mystery for many centuries.
Cusco in the Ancient Inca Empire
As the hub of the largest civilization in the Americas during the pre-Columbian period, Cusco, Peru is located in the midst of the ancient Inca Empire. Through Machu Picchu hiking tour, you can learn a great deal about this ancient civilization as you hike along the Inca Trail on your way to Machu Picchu and explore numerous, intriguing sites.
As you hike beneath the Andean skies on a Machu Picchu trek, you can see the extraordinary features of the Incan architecture. In addition, you will have the opportunity to get a more personal insight within local communities and learn about the ancient traditions of many centuries ago in this civilization that many of the people alive today still practice.
Professional Tour Guides
You’ll have the opportunity to sign up with a tour operator that is locally owned, highly experienced and staffs professionals with fluency in Spanish, English, and the ancient language of the Incas – Quechua.
By having a travel guide who was born and raised in the area in which you will be making your Machu Picchu trek, you can gain a tremendous amount of insight and knowledge about the local communities as well as the history of the civilization. Your guide should have proper licensing from the Peruvian government as well as university training. With a qualified guide leading your trek, you can have confidence that you will be able to learn about the culture and history of the ancient people as well as view all of its sites and scenery.
