View allAll Photos Tagged IncaTrail
Canals are one of the achievements of Inca people. They created pretty elaborated irrigation system to water their crops.
The Inka Trail got used as a communication system for the Incas to run from one place to another in the humongous Inca Empire which stretched from south Colombia to north of Argentina. There are different Inca trails to hike, but this one is the most famous Inca trail and it will take you from Sacred Valley to Machu Picchu which is one of the Seven Wonders of the World, through beautiful landscapes and different archaeological Inca sites.
This was arguably the most rewarding moment of the trek from sport's point of view. Inca Chiriaska Pass was the highest point on our way to Machu Picchu - 4,967 meters (16 296 feet).
Chicha is a traditional Andean drink made from fermented corn. Sometimes the brewer will start the fermentation by chewing the corn in his or her mouth. There were alcoholic and nonalcoholic versions available at some of the early stops on the trail. Many of the porters drank it. I tried a sip of Miguel's (he assured me it was a saliva-free version). It tasted a little like beer.
Our guide always delegated his belongings to horses (and later porters). I think it takes time to get used to the thought how little one needs in mountains. In fact, my backpack played role of mostly moral support. I even didn't drink on the trail, and the snacks I consumed fit my pocket.
I doubt that I will ever participate in regular trekking adventure, where people carry their own stuff themselves. Relying on horses and porters spoils, and there is no way back to self sufficiency.