The Incas considered themselves “sons of the Sun”— their principal deity. By force of divine right and with a mastery of engineering, agriculture and economic skills, the Incas united warring tribes throughout the Andes under a common language and single religion, creating one of the most fabulous of ancient empires, Tawantinsuyo. At its apex in the late fifteenth century, this impressive kingdom encompassed lands stretching from southern Colombia to central Chile, connected by a network of more than 2,500 miles of stone-paved highways, tunnels and bridges. The Incas governed this vast realm from Cusco, their administrative and economic center, where, in honor of their gods and king, they built fabulous fortresses and mountaintop citadels of legendary grandeur and precision, making the term “Inca” synonymous with architectural excellence. Weakened by civil war, this magnificent empire collapsed in the face of the Spanish invasion in 1532, leaving behind silent walls. In spite of the ravages of time, these mysterious stone monuments stand today as a testament to the greatness of their creators.

This classic trek along the stone-paved Royal Road leads directly to Machu Picchu, the fabled Lost City of the Incas. Travelers on this path are treated to a broad introduction to Inca civilization. First, we adjust to the higher elevation by visiting unique ruins such as the Coricancha, Sacsayhuaman and Tambo Machay near Cusco. Later, we hike to the abandoned site of Pisac, dramatically overlooking the Sacred Valley. Next, we stop at the Indian market in Chinchero en route to the trail head where our trek begins. Our wilderness route takes us across two high passes. We hike through alpine meadows and lush cloud-forests beneath snow-capped peaks, each day exploring complex and well-preserved Inca sites—a preview of glorious Machu Picchu. Arriving through the Intipunku, or Gateway of the Sun, our first glimpse of the citadel is a stunning and rewarding overview. After hiking down to the ruins, we relax at a nearby hotel and then explore this treasure again the following morning before returning by train to Cusco.