"This is what we call sharing on the Inca... " a Machu Picchu Travel Page by richiecdisc

Mention the names “Machu Picchu” and “Inca Trail,” and it sends shivers down most travelers’ backs. And it’s for good reason. Machu Picchu is perhaps the most important archeological discovery of the past 100 years and certainly South America’s top drawing card. Shrouded in mystery as much as misty clouds, the near mythical site conjures images of the legendary Incas as they went about their extraordinary existence in the sprawling ancient city. Even with such high expectations, few visitors leave dissatisfied. And what better way to arrive than via the Inca Trail? Combining incredible mountain scenery, lush jungle-like forest and numerous picturesque ruins, the Inca Trail is justifiably the most popular backpacking trek on the continent. So, what do you get when you combine the premier hike with the number one tourist attraction in all of South America? Well, a lot of bureaucracy for one thing. Such is the popularity of the trail that it is now forbidden to tackle the hike without using a licensed guide and that translates to going on a guided trek. This actually puts even more people in the footsteps of the Incas. But even with the hassle involved in doing the hike and all the people crowding the trail, it remains a rare and special walk. Passing through a cloud forest with hummingbirds darting about, snowy peaks rising amongst the lush green hills, and well spaced Inca ruins, you would be hard pressed to find a more beautiful terrain even without a dream destination. But add to this, magical Machu Picchu as the culmination to your sweat and you can understand why you simply cannot have this place to yourself.