In today’s hectic and fast-paced life, everyone needs a moment to breathe fresh air. A quick Moonstone Trek to Machu Picchu is such a break needed to freshen your mind. Machu Picchu is a great destination in Peru, situated high in the Urubamba River valley of the Andes Mountains. This ancient Incan citadel was established in the 15th century in the Eastern Cordillera which was later abandoned and left with sophisticated dry-stone walls.
Apart from its intriguing buildings, the location is pervaded with stunning mountain views and breathtaking luscious greenery. This is why it makes a great destination for adventure geeks and offers tons of options to explore on a trip to Peru. As Machu Picchu is full of interesting spots, it is overwhelming to choose the best ones. This article will discuss the top 5 places in the moonstone trek.
The Significance of Moonstone Trek
The Moonstone trek is the new buzz to be an appropriate alternative to the Machu Picchu trek. Since the Inca trail is quite popular now and crowded throughout the year with visitors, the Moonstone trek is a great way to escape the crowds.
Walking down the trail will give you an opportunity to encounter a spectacular view of the landscape. From archaeological ruins to local rural communities, the trek brings various things on the platter. The trek is named after Quillarumiyoc of Quechua which means “Moonstone.” It poses significance as the rock site has a moon symbol carved on it, which is served as a place to worship the Moon.
It is one of the most stunning carved rocks in the Huacas district in the vicinity of Cusco. The old Inca route that passes through Cusco to the mountains lets the trekkers discover various things.
Top 5 Highlights of Moonstone Trek to Machu Picchu
The Moonstone Trek to Machu Picchu is one of the most awe-inspiring hikes in the world. This challenging trail spans 60 kilometers and takes trekkers through snow-capped mountains, dense forests, and a variety of Andean landscapes. Here are five highlights of the Moonstone Trek to Machu Picchu.
- The Moonstone Pass
The trek is named after the Moonstone Pass, which is the highest point of the trek at an elevation of 4,750 meters. This is a challenging climb, but the panoramic views from the top make it all worthwhile. Trekkers will be rewarded with stunning views of the surrounding mountains, including the towering peak of Salkantay. The Moonstone Pass is also home to a unique geological feature called the moonstone, a round stone resembling a full moon.
- The Humantay Lake
Humantay Lake is a beautiful turquoise lake that sits at the base of Humantay Mountain. This stunning natural wonder is one of the highlights of the Moonstone Trek. The lake is surrounded by towering mountains and is fed by glacial runoff from Humantay Mountain. Trekkers can take a dip in the icy waters of the lake or simply sit back and enjoy the stunning views.
- The Llactapata Ruins
The Llactapata Ruins is a hidden gem along this trek. These ancient ruins date back to the Inca civilization and are located on a ridge overlooking the Urubamba River Valley. The Llactapata Ruins offer a glimpse into the lives of the Inca people and provide trekkers with a unique perspective on the history of the region. The ruins are also a great place to take in the breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
- The Machu Picchu Citadel
The ultimate destination of the Moonstone Trek is the Machu Picchu Citadel, one of the most famous archaeological sites in the world. This ancient city was built by the Inca civilization in the 15th century and is a marvel of engineering and design. The Machu Picchu Citadel is perched on a mountain ridge overlooking the Urubamba River Valley and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains. Trekkers will have the opportunity to explore the many temples, palaces, and other structures that make up the city and learn about the history of this remarkable site.
- The Andean Landscapes
One of the highlights of this trek is the incredible variety of Andean landscapes that trekkers will encounter. The trail takes hikers through snow-capped mountains, dense forests, and high-altitude grasslands. Along the way, trekkers will pass through traditional Andean villages and meet locals who still practice traditional farming and weaving techniques. The diverse landscapes and cultures along the Moonstone Trek provide a unique opportunity for trekkers to immerse themselves in the rich history and culture of the region.
To wrap it up…
In conclusion, the Moonstone Trek to Machu Picchu is an unforgettable journey that takes trekkers through some of the most stunning landscapes in the world. From the challenging climb to the Moonstone Pass to the serene beauty of the Humantay Lake and the ancient ruins of Llactapata, this trek offers something for every adventurous traveler. And of course, the ultimate reward of reaching the Machu Picchu Citadel is an experience that will stay with trekkers for a lifetime.