THE INCA TRAIL, CUSCO AND MACHU PICCHU

Lost to the jungle for centuries, Machu Picchu was rediscovered by Hiram Bingham 100 years ago. It's now probably the most famous sight in South America - and justifiably so. Perched high above the river on a knife-edge ridge, the ruins are truly spectacular. The best way to reach them is on foot, following parts of the original paved Inca Trail over passes of 4200m (13,500ft). This all-in-one guide includes hiking options from two days to three weeks with 60 detailed hiking maps showing walking times, camping places and all points of interest. Routes covered include the Inca Trail, Choquequirao, Santa Teresa and two new routes for this edition: the Lares Trail and Ausangate Circuit. Includes an introductory colour section and Machu Picchu section in colour. -Practical information - planning your trek and getting to Peru -Lima and Cusco - street plans, what to see, where to stay -The Imperial Landscape - a reading of Inca history in the Sacred Valley, by explorer and historian, Hugh Thomson, author of The White Rock - An Exploration of the Inca Heartland. - Two new routes for this edition: the Lares Trail and Ausangate Circuit. -60 trail maps,10 town plans, 15 site plans