Located in the Andes in Peru, near Cusco and Machu Picchu, the Sacred Valley has been referred to the "Valley of Yuca." It has been said to encompass the heartland of the Inca Empire and was formed by the Urubamba River. The Sacred Valley consists of many rivers and valleys, and is known for its geographical and climatic qualities, having once been the source of Peruvian maize growth.
The classic Inca Trail begins just outside of Ollantaytambo in Sacred Valley, and ends at Sun Gate at Machu Picchu. The trek normally takes four or five days to complete, passing through several distinct ecosystems including cloud forest, alpine tundra and tropical rainforest; and myriad Inca ruins and tunnels along the trail. The highest point is reached at Abra Warmiwanusca, or Dead Woman's Pass, roughly 13,800 feet above sea level. Be sure to book your spot well in advance, because tighter restrictions on the daily number of hikers have now made it even harder to secure a place on a guided trek. The Inca Trail is normally closed for maintenance in February, which also happens to be the wettest (and least desirable) month of the year.
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