One of the most well-liked hikes in the entire globe is the one to Machu Picchu. There is no doubt that you should take this hike at least once in your life because. This trek offers the ideal fusion of history, a vibrant culture, and beautiful scenery. Nevertheless, there are various ways to go to Machu Picchu. The Classic Inca Trail and the Inca Jungle Trek are the two most popular. But what is the difference between the Inca Jungle Trek and the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu?
Inca Jungle Trek to Machu Picchu
The main difference between the Inca Jungle Trek and the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu is the level of adventure, with the Inca Jungle Trek being far more suitable for daring. Even the hike itself is lengthy, covering over 50 kilometres (31 miles). The Inca Jungle Trek lasts for 4 days and 3 nights. The longest day of hiking—more than 6 hours—comes on the second day. You will travel from Cusco to Santa Maria over the Abra Malaga Pass on the first day, and then from Santa Maria to Santa Theresa on the following day. You will arrive in Aguas Calientes on the third day, travel to Machu Picchu the following day, and then return to Cusco.
There is another, shorter Inca Jungle Trek alternative available, which excludes the hike from Santa Maria to Santa Theresa and only lasts two nights. Mountain biking is among the easiest methods to finish this hike. White water rafting is yet another possibility that depends heavily on the time of year and the river’s conditions. Zip-lining is another thrilling activity you can try; it will cost you about $40 per person.
Inca Trail to Machu Picchu
The classic Inca Trail, on the other hand, is the more popular hike of the two while visiting Machu Picchu. The classic Inca Trail is a moderately difficult hike when compared with the adventurous Inca Jungle Trek. Even the hike’s length, which is only 43 km (26 miles), is shorter. With camping options available at several locations along the way, the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu is divided into 4 days and 3 nights. You will travel from Cusco to Km 82 on the first day before arriving in Llactapata.
The second day will be the most difficult because you will be going through Dead Woman’s Pass, the highest point of the Inca Trail at 4215m, with more than 10 hours of hiking. You will be visiting the historic sites of Winaywayna, which are 2600 meters above sea level, on the third day. Then, on the final day, you will have to hike for two hours through the Sun Gate to reach Machu Picchu, where you will have a breathtaking view of the ancient city. This is the least exciting part of your hike because the final day only involves 6 hours of hiking before arriving in Cusco. However, there is a shorter version that.
