Machu Picchu was discovered in early 1900 by a historian (although this is under discussion) and since then has been a popular spot for climbers and tourists. E 'known as the' Lost City of the Incas' and sits at a huge 7500 + meters above sea level, making it a hidden city, in fact, quite a challenging journey. It is officially one of the new Seven Wonders of the World, and with good reason too - the town still shows extraordinary landscape, carefully designed buildings, staircases and solid - often clouds drift over the soft grass, giving a very surreal feeling. If you are a fan, backpackers or just looking for some adventure, Machu Picchu is without doubt a very good location to visit. There are some things you should know, however, to make sure everything goes smoothly and that do not end up stuck in Cusco because you could not get a guide. Inca Trail is LimitedThe Trail has a daily cap on how many people can cross in an effort to keep it preserved. This surprised many, as it assumes that anyone can head up as long as they have a guide. Currently there is a limit of 500 passengers a day on the Inca trail (but no limits on other tracks). You must plan ahead and book a trip of it, or you have to use one of the other tracks. In addition, you need a trekking permit, which currently is priced at $ 51 for adults (discounts for students are available). The guides are NecessaryAs nice as it would be headed by yourself, you can not. It is now law to have a guide take the Inca trail, and you should definitely book this guide in advance. There are a huge number of qualified guides in Cuzco, but some are not all that great, and will make your trip more rough. Do your research, ask people who have served on the trail, and make sure they are qualified. Porters have minimum WageIt is now law to pay porters a minimum wage, which is $ 15 per day. This is a good wage for workers, but the addition of an extra dollar or two can assure you that I give you good service. There is also a new law about the maximum weight a porter can take, which is 25 kg. The government, as the weight of checked baggage at the beginning of the trail, so do not go over the limit. Only Pay OfficeBecause Trek of the huge number of people who come to climb the mountain, there are a huge number of scams that try to avoid. The biggest scam is paying for the trek (usually $ 500) in a place other than the office official. Do not pay at the hotel, do not give it any official, not to those who say that there is an agent of the company. Even if someone is standing at the airport with your name on a sign, do not give them the money - the best way is to simply ignore and walk like someone else from your past. Consider Inca trail 'official' a Different TrailThe is great and all, but it is too crowded and noisy - not very relaxing experience and become one with nature. The sheer number of people to make theft more probable, and the nights are usually full of people drunk and making a lot of noise. There are different paths you can take, and are just a nice, if not better. Some are longer (one week, for example), and some are very short (one day). Some are very quiet and empty, allowing time to be alone and enjoy nature. Ausangate is an ideal location for those wanting a difficult journey to see a lot of wonders, to meet the villagers, and really work for the experience of seeing the lost city of the Incas. It 's hard for a whole seven days and takes you around a different look, through a flourishing village is going through, as did hundreds of years ago, has featured some incredible views and lakes, and finally to Machu Picchu - this path is definitely only for the very physically fit, how will all this work at high altitudes, which will put more stress on your body.