Machu Picchu is considered one of the seven new wonders of the world, and if you visit it, you’ll see exactly why it secured the prestigious title. A trip to Machu Picchu is an experience like no other, providing you with a breathtaking view, and making you feel like you’re at the top of the world if you were to go on a Machu Picchu hiking tour.
It’s truly a remarkable feeling, getting to experience a sense of history from centuries ago and encountering views you may have previously only seen in pictures. If you have ever wanted to truly understand our world’s history and combine it with scenery like no other, the Ancient Inca trails will provide you with just that.
Let us give you a quick historical background of the Ancient Incas that you can discover for yourselves while on a journey to the depths of Peru. The Inca civilization thrived between 1400 and 1533 CE, primarily locating themselves in Peru and expanding their society across western South America, from Quito in the north to Santiago in the south. It was in itself the largest empire ever seen in the Americas, one of the largest in the world, and what came with that was a massive piece of history that we’re able to revisit today.
Machu Picchu
While hiking in Machu Picchu, you can discover a large part of the architectural history that Ancient Inca tribes were known for constructing. Machu Picchu is undoubtedly a heritage site that you should check off your list, with the archaeological remains dating back to the 15th century.
The site is especially renowned for its sophisticated building systems, which were unheard of at the time. The construction of dry-stone walls fusing the blocks without mortar usage was a particularly innovative technique. The panoramic views from the top of the heritage site will not only provide for a view like no other, but they will also allow you to get a sense of Latin America’s deep-rooted history, with the sites of Machu Picchu making it feel like you’ve traveled back in time
What is also interesting about the ancient Inca site of Machu Picchu is the uncertainty of what the dry-stoned constructions were built and used for. There are various theories among historians about their desired purpose, but the exact answer still remains a mystery until today. So maybe discovering the Ancient Inca sites will not only expand your historical knowledge but also make you analyze the desired purpose of the ancient constructions.
Cusco
If you’re on a journey to discover the depths of Ancient history, the Peruvian city of Cusco is one you cannot omit. The former capital of the Inca Empire that has been conquered by the Inca tribes from the 13th century until the 16th-century is a tourist hot spot, with many people wanting to see these historical routes for themselves. The site was declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1983, showcasing a wide variety of historical creations within the city.
The city was considered one of the most important centers for indigenous people. Many historians believe that it’s shaped to resemble and honor a puma or a sacred animal. It wouldn’t come as a surprise if it were, as while discovering the historical backgrounds of the Ancient Incas, we can see a pattern of rich architectural designs that uniquely shaped how each piece of the city was constructed.
Pisac
Situated nearby the Sacred Valley, you might want to discover the Ancient Incas fortress town of Pisac. The mountain sites provide a view of the deep gorges, with various green terraces to hike across. It is a true view of nature, combined with a historical feeling to it, and stunningly presenting itself at different times of the day.
If you’re going to indulge yourself on a trip to Pisac, don’t forget to visit some ancient sites, such as the royal bath complex, the Temple of Sun, and the Temple of Heaven. It is a history lesson that needs to be experienced to be understood, as well as an adventure that will capture your memory for a lifetime. After a day of visiting the mountain sites, don’t forget to visit the thriving, colorful markets of Pisac, and getting a unique souvenir to remind you of the experience once you get back home.
Conclusion
Going on a hiking trip across the various locations conquered by the Ancient Incas is an experience that combines a history lesson with seeing some of the most breathtaking natural views on Earth. The added thrill of making the journey by hiking will also let you experience the deepest parts of these historical sites that you wouldn’t be able to access otherwise, with the added benefit of giving you a workout while at it.
If you’re going to indulge on such a journey, make sure to contact a local tour guide, or go with an organized group, as you can easily get lost throughout the countless routes available.
