Climbing Machu Picchu

Machu Picchu was discovered in the early 1900's by a historian (though the this is being debated) and has since then been a famous spot for climbers and tourists alike. It's known as the 'Lost City of the Incas' and sits at a whopping 7,500+ feet above sea level, making it a hidden city indeed, and a fairly demanding trip. It is officially one of the new Seven Wonders of the World, and with good reason too - the city still shows amazing landscaping, carefully designed buildings, and solid stairs - clouds often drift over the soft grass, giving it a very surreal feeling.

If you're a backpacker, traveler, or just plain looking for some adventure, Machu Picchu is no doubt a very good location to visit. There are a few things you should know, however, to make sure everything goes smooth and you don't end up stuck in Cusco because you couldn't get a guide.

Inca Trail is Limited

The Inca trail has a daily cap on how many people can traverse it in an effort to keep it preserved. This surprises many, as they assume that anyone can head up it as long as they have a guide. There is currently a limit of 500 travelers a day on the Inca trail (but no limits on other trails). You will need to plan ahead and reserve a trip of it, or you'll have to use one of the other trails.

In addition, you need to have a trekking permit, which currently is priced at $51 for adults (student discounts are available).

Guides are Necessary

As nice as it would be to head up on your own, you can't. It is now law to have a guide take you up the Inca trail, and you should absolutely reserve this guide in advanced. There are a huge number of qualified guides in Cusco, but some aren't all that great, and will make your trip rougher. Do your research, ask individuals who have already done the trail, and make sure they are qualified.

Porters have Minimum Wage

It is also now law to pay porters a minimum wage, which is $15 per day. This is a good wage for the workers, but adding an extra dollar or two will assure they'll give you good service. There is also a new laws about the maximum amount of weight a porter can take, which is 25 kilograms. The government as the weight of bags checked at the start of the trail, so don't go over the limit.

Only Pay at the Trek Office

Because of the huge number of people who come to climb the mountain, there are a huge number of scams that try to avoid. The biggest scam is paying for the trek (usually $500) anywhere other than the official office. Don't pay it at the hotel, don't give it to any officials, don't give it to anyone who says there an agent of the company. Even if someone is standing at the airport with your name on a sign, don't give them the money - the best route is to just ignore them and walk past like your someone else.

Consider a Different Trail

The 'official' Inca trail is great and all, but it is over-crowded and loud - not much of a relaxing experience and becoming one with nature. The sheer number of people make theft more likely, and the nights are usually filled with people getting drunk and making a lot of noise.

There are different trails you can take, and they are just a nice, if not nicer. Some are longer (a week, for example), and some are really short (a day). Some are very quite and empty, allowing you time to be alone and to enjoy nature.

Ausangate is a good trail for those who want a difficult trip, to see a lot of wonders, to meet villagers, and to truly work for the experience of viewing the lost city of the Incas. It lasts for a whole seven days and takes you around a different peek, through a thriving village that is living like they did hundreds of years ago, past some amazing peeks and lakes, and finally to Machu Picchu - this trail is certainly only for the very physically fit, as you will be doing all this work from a high altitude, which will put more stress of your body.

By Blair Mathis