The Inca Trail to Machu Picchu is one of the most iconic treks in the world, weaving through the Andean mountains and cloud forests of Peru. It’s not just a hike; it’s a journey through history, nature, and culture that culminates in the breathtaking view of Machu Picchu itself. Along the way, trekkers are rewarded with some of the most stunning and unique views on the planet. Here are seven unforgettable sights you’ll only experience on the Inca Trail.
1. The Start: Lush Valley Views of the Sacred Urubamba River
As you begin the trek at Kilometer 82, the landscape is dominated by the lush, green valleys surrounding the Urubamba River. The river winds its way through the Sacred Valley, a region steeped in history and rich in natural beauty. The sight of the Urubamba River snaking through the valley, flanked by towering Andean peaks, sets the tone for the adventure ahead. This fertile area, once the heartland of the Inca civilization, provides a serene yet awe-inspiring backdrop as you embark on your journey. The contrast between the deep green vegetation and the blue skies above creates a mesmerizing view that’s hard to forget.
2. Llactapata Ruins: Ancient Terraces Overlooking the Valley
Just a few hours into the trek, you’ll come across the impressive ruins of Llactapata, an ancient Inca town that served as a vital agricultural and administrative center. Perched on a hillside, Llactapata offers stunning views of the surrounding valley and mountains. The intricate terraces carved into the hillside are a testament to the engineering prowess of the Incas. From this vantage point, you can appreciate how the Incas harmonized their constructions with the natural landscape. The sight of these ruins against the backdrop of the Sacred Valley is a powerful reminder of the ancient civilization that once thrived here.
3. Dead Woman’s Pass: Conquering the Highest Point on the Trail
One of the most challenging and rewarding parts of the Inca Trail is reaching the highest point of the trek, known as Dead Woman’s Pass (Warmiwañusqa). At an altitude of 4,215 meters (13,828 feet), this pass is not only a physical challenge but also offers one of the most spectacular views of the entire trek. From the top, you can look back at the path you’ve traveled, with the lush valleys far below, and ahead to the rugged, undulating peaks that await you. The sense of accomplishment, combined with the panoramic views of the Andean landscape, makes this one of the most memorable moments on the trail.
4. Runkurakay: A Glimpse into Incan Military Strategy
After descending from Dead Woman’s Pass, you’ll encounter the ruins of Runkurakay, an Incan military outpost that offers another stunning view. This circular structure, perched on a ridge overlooking the Pacaymayo Valley, provides insight into the strategic minds of the Incas. The view from Runkurakay is a sweeping panorama of the valley below, with mountains rising dramatically on all sides. It’s easy to see why the Incas chose this spot for a lookout; the vast, open vistas allowed them to monitor any approaching threats. The combination of historical significance and natural beauty makes this a must-see stop along the trail.
5. Phuyupatamarca: The City Above the Clouds
Phuyupatamarca, often referred to as “The City Above the Clouds,” is one of the most stunning archaeological sites along the Inca Trail. As its name suggests, this site is often shrouded in mist, creating a mystical atmosphere that feels almost otherworldly. The site itself is a series of well-preserved terraces and stone structures, but the real highlight is the view. From Phuyupatamarca, you can look out over the vast expanse of the Andean mountains, with the cloud forest stretching out below you. On a clear day, the sight is nothing short of breathtaking, with the mountains appearing to float above the clouds.
6. Intipata: Majestic Terraces Cascading Down the Mountainside
As you near the end of the Inca Trail, you’ll come across the stunning terraces of Intipata. These terraces, which descend steeply down the mountainside, were used by the Incas for agricultural purposes. The scale and precision of these terraces are impressive, but it’s the view from Intipata that truly takes your breath away. From this vantage point, you can see the terraces cascading down the mountain, with the verdant valleys and snow-capped peaks in the distance. The combination of human ingenuity and natural beauty makes Intipata one of the most striking sights on the Inca Trail.
7. Sun Gate (Inti Punku): The First Glimpse of Machu Picchu
The culmination of the Inca Trail is reaching the Sun Gate, or Inti Punku, where you’ll get your first glimpse of Machu Picchu. This moment is what every trekker dreams of—the sight of the ancient citadel emerging from the mist, with the majestic Huayna Picchu peak rising behind it. The Sun Gate was the original entrance to Machu Picchu for the Incas, and arriving here after days of trekking is an emotional and awe-inspiring experience. The view from the Sun Gate is unparalleled; it’s the first time you see Machu Picchu in all its glory, nestled in the mountains, surrounded by verdant forest. It’s a sight that will stay with you forever.
Conclusion: The Journey of a Lifetime
The Inca Trail to Machu Picchu is more than just a hike; it’s a journey through some of the most beautiful and historically significant landscapes in the world. Each of these seven stunning views offers a unique perspective on the natural and cultural wonders of the Andes. Whether you’re looking at ancient ruins set against dramatic mountain backdrops or gazing out over valleys that stretch as far as the eye can see, the views along the Inca Trail are sure to leave you in awe. For those seeking adventure, history, and breathtaking beauty, the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu is an experience like no other—a journey that culminates in one of the most iconic sights on earth.
Welcome to Xtreme Tourbulencia! Working hand in hand with our partner Aventure Inca Perou, we strive to promote sustainable tourism, protecting the local environment and culture. We offer a variety of tours and adventure expeditions at the Southern of Peru. The tours are all designed with the highest level of customer service and responsible tourism. We look forward to sharing Peru's amazing outdoors and deep culture heritage with you! Our priority is to provide outstanding service for our clients. Next to our professionalism, it is very important for us to minimize our environmental impact and show respect for local culture, nature and the people of Peru. That's why our objective is to make tourism more sustainable. Therefore, our agency only works with experienced and professionally licensed guides who have great knowledge of the environment, local culture and history. We offer tours in the following languages: Spanish, French, English, German, Italian and Quechua.
