How to Plan a Road Trip Following the Royal Inca Road

The Inca people had a great empire hundreds of years ago. One of their great lost cities was Machu Picchu. The Royal Inca Road leads to this great lost city. Consider taking a guided road trip along the Royal Inca Road.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Camera

1. Get a flight from Lima, Peru to Cusco, Peru. Cusco will be the starting point of your trip.

2. Locate your guide and get the itinerary for your trip to Machu Picchu. The group will likely leave early in the morning.

3. Be sure to pack all needed supplies. Consult your tour guide for any items you may need.

4. Take the bus or van with your tour guide to the trailhead of the Royal Inca Road or to the train station. Get ready for a 4-day hike to Machu Picchu if you take the trail.

5. Take the 30-minute bus ride from the train station to Machu Picchu. Enjoy the scenery and listen to your guide to learn about the history of the city.

6. Stay in the Machu Picchu Sanctuary Lodge if you want to stay overnight. Otherwise, return on the bus to the railway station where you can catch the train back to Cusco.

Tips & Warnings

• Be prepared for the high altitude. Cusco is 11,000 feet above sea level.
• Take the trail hike only if you are in good physical condition. It is a very difficult hike in the high altitude.