Machu Picchu is one of the most-visited parts of South America. The name in itself speaks much about the ruins present there. The view of Inca Citadel is everlasting and an experience to remember lifelong.
Visitors talk about the 1 Day Tour to Machu Picchu and the long flight which an individual needs to take. There is much more than this when hiking the Classic Inca Trail Trek 4 Days.
Just reaching the spot is not enough. One has to encounter an endless number of things on the way that cannot be neglected. Being well informed about those uncertainties will help you in being prepared for the adventure. This post is to help you in making your trip more wonderful by knowing the real encounters during the Classic Inca Trail Hike.
The Dead Woman’s Pass Gets Steeper Downhill
The dead woman passage gets steeper as you go down. The highest point of the Inca Trail is at a height of 4213 meters. This is more than Machu Picchu which is 1800 meters.
Going up could be easy but you need to remember that returning back is also a part of your trek. While coming down, the steeper downhill needs to be covered slowly without any hassle.
You can get your sticks in the Cusco. This path is a little dangerous but it gets easier after you cross it.
Coca Leaves Are Part of Traditional Medicine
The Andes have used Coca leaves in traditional medicine. It is considered an art to chew these leaves. One needs to chew them continuously till you feel some stimulating effect. This effect takes away all your thirst, hunger, fatigue, and altitude sickness.
The leaves are put in the mouth with an alkaline substance so that the effectiveness of the leaves is extracted completely. This classical method was used earlier. It can be said as the Andean chewing gum.
Hikers also take it as a competition to chew the biggest coca leaves ball. It can be seen as a giant candy in the mouths of the trekkers.
Altitude Sickness
Altitude sickness might not affect you much in the beginning but if the symptoms persist for long, you need to be cautious. It is not taken on a series note but it can ruin your entire adventure. It can become dangerous when ignored during critical times.
Many tourists feel the symptoms of nausea, dizziness, headache, and fatigue. These symptoms take about 12-20 hours to get off completely. Many trekkers can be seen vomiting which is a sure shot symptom of altitude sickness. It gets under control after acclimatization.
The rapid difference in elevation puts a lot of pressure on the body, resulting in altitude sickness. This is one of the reasons why the returning journey is difficult and brings many problems with it.
Altitude sickness can be put under control when treated properly at the correct time. The chewing of coca leaves is a traditional method in the Cusco to eliminate altitude sickness. It is very crucial to understand the call of your body and act accordingly.
You definitely do not want to have catastrophic consequences, Isn’t it? Be vigilant enough to not push yourself beyond the capacity of your body. Whenever you feel restless, take a rest.
You can consult your doctor before coming to Peru. Modem altitude sickness medicines will help you out in difficult times. It is always advisable to be prepared beforehand.
The Entire Route Has Surprises
The entire Inca Trail adventure will give you an everlasting experience. However, the real gem waits at the end. The remains of fortifications are very alluring.
Each part of the trek has its own significance. The history behind every area is intriguing. This is going to make your journey more knowledgeable and interesting.
You can take a guide with you so that you can get to know the details of every part. Do not forget to take your time and explore the ruins properly. You will not be able to take on the Classic Inca Trail Hike every now and then. Therefore, you need to make the most out of it. Also so not forget to keep extra batteries handy for your camera.
Focus On Enjoying More Rather Than Clicking Pictures
The trekkers and tourists are more engaged in taking pictures. It is very obvious that the picturesque view is so enchanting that the first thought which flashes in our minds is clicking pictures.
The Inca Trail Highlights is Inti Punku that is named Sun Gate. It is the last spot of the trek. It is also the main entrance of Machu Picchu. Here, the extremely majestic view of sunrise is worth your efforts in making the trek.
It can be taken as a reward for your efforts to compete for the trek. You can relax here and have pictures in a glowing time.
Do not forget to enjoy the time and comprehend the natural beauty of the place. Getting lost in clicking pictures will make you miss the overwhelming experience that this place holds.