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The Ruins of the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu

The ruins of the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu are stone buildings strategically located in the higher places; the names were given in the 1915s by Mr. Hiram Bingham when he discovered the trail. Probably the this new names was provided by the locals or the helpers of Mr. Bingham

WHEN TO GO

The busiest season for the Inca Trail is June, July and August. This period also in the dry season during this time the mountains are very visible; but is not the season for the flowers; although still can be found some types if orchids. During this time the trekkers can get extremely lucky and had perfect weather for the entire hike. Are allowed 200 travelers on the Inca Trail a day accompanied by 250 porters; you pass by the same people every day so you get to know other hikers well.

The Inca ruins of the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu

Qorihuayrachina

Is located at 2,650masl, here starts the classic Inca Trail; this place is known as the Km 88, Here is located the Inca ruins of “Qoriwayrachina” Quechua name (Inca language) for cleaning spot for gold. This beautiful Inca site was discovered in 2001 by Englishman, Peter Frost. During the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, most hikers do not enter to Qoriwayrachina Inca ruins. In the place there are remains of Inca Bridge, Inca terraces for agriculture and beautiful altars used for religious purpose.

Llactapata

Is the biggest Inca ruins of the Inca Trail; the environment is marvelous. The place was administrative center occupied by”Curaka” Inca’s representative. The ruins of Llactapata, is located at 2,720masl. Llactapata is a combination of two Quechua words, ‘llacta’ which means town and ‘pata’ which means at height. Thus, more than one site has been, and is, referred to by this name. Unfortunately, few trekkers take time to visit these ruins as they are situated far below the trail. Near Llacatapta is located ogther Inca ruins named Torontoy.

Patawasi

Located at 3,000masl in the community of Wayllabmba; it consist of building with panoramic view to the three valley: Cusichaca, Huyruru and Qesqa. Patawasi was a control point during the Inca times. The valley of Patawasi is very reach for agriculture where still nowadays the inhabitants are cultivating different types of corn. The corn is the most important product the Incas have domesticated.

Dead Woman’s Pass

Is Located at 4,200masl; this is not an archeological site. However it deserves a mention it this list; The name, ‘Dead woman’s Pass’ or ‘Warmiwañusca’ in Quechua, is derived from the arrangement of terrain which looks like a woman lying on her back. The pass is considered and “axis mundys”; the half point between the earth and the heaven. At the top, excellent views of nearby mountains such as the Salkantay (6,372m) Pucapunta (5,650m) and Veronica (5,750m) .

Runkurakay

Located at 3,800masl at the right site of the main trail to Machu Picchu; the structure consists of two concentric walls that enclose chambers and a courtyard; the walls are inclined, which leads to the conclusion that they were designed to withstand earthquakes. Runkaurakay was thought by archaeologists to have been a ‘tambo’, which was a resting station, for couriers traveling to Machu Picchu due to the construction of many sleeping quarters and stabling for pack animals. The roof of Runkurakay was in a conical shape and was used straw that exist in large quantities in this area.

Sayacmarca

Sayacmarca Is located at 3,600m, the name is referred to as the ‘Inaccessible Town’ due to the steep drops on three edges of the structure falling to the jungle below. To enter the ruins one needs to climb 98 vertical stone steps along the edge of a mountain. The Inca ruins of Sayacmarca are a small city on the top of the rocky mountain; its location is exactly where the Andes are ending and the jungle is starting. In the ruins one can see Inca aqueducts for water, water baths, altars, many rooms, squares and one big round shaped room which is visible form a several kilometers away.

Phuyupatamarka

Located at 3,600masl; Phuyupatamarca also known as ‘the cloudy place’ can be reached by climbing down a long flight of stairs where you will be greeted by the marvelous site. The ruins contain six flowing fountains with Andean terraces and a pair of plazas including numerous buildings. Phuyupatamarca was a religious site here exist a beautiful spring from where the water is running through a single aqueduct and passing by water fountains. The architecture is unique because the walls follow the shape of the mountains.

Wiñay Wayna

It is located at 2,600masl the name means “Forever Young” and it was given due to the special kind of Pink Orchid that grows in the area. Similar to Intipata the structure was built upon a steep hill side and gives an advantageous view of the vulnerable access point along the Urubamba River.

Inti Punku

Located at 2,750masl is the place from where you can see the iconic Machu Picchu. This site will give impressive views of the magical city of Machu Picchu, so be sure to save some space on your camera for this unforgettable moment! From there it is an easy and pleasant walk to one of the Seven Modern Wonders of the World. All the aches and pains will melt away and this moment will make the four day endurance all worth it!