The Inca Trail is a famous trekking route in Peru leading to the ancient citadel of Machu Picchu. This trail was originally an ancient pilgrimage route used by the Incas, but today it serves as one of the world's most renowned hiking paths, attracting thousands of visitors each year.
The trail's construction is attributed to the Inca civilization, which thrived from the 13th to the 16th century. The Incas built a vast network of roads, known as the Qhapaq Nan, which facilitated trade, communication, and religious pilgrimages. The section now known as the Inca Trail was part of this network, linking various sacred sites. After the Spanish conquest, many of these routes fell into disuse and were reclaimed by the jungle.
Due to the environmental impact of heavy foot traffic, the Peruvian government regulates the number of hikers allowed on the trail each day. Permits must be obtained in advance, and they include:
Over the years, the popularity of the Inca Trail has raised concerns about its preservation:
Due to the permit restrictions and environmental concerns, several alternative treks to Machu Picchu have been developed: