Literally "old mountain" in Quechua, Peru's dominant indigenous language ... Others may opt to reach Machu Picchu by hiking the Inca Trail, a series of ancient roads that trace their origin ...

The fabled route leading to Machu Picchu is one of the world's most jaw-droppingly beautiful treks – but it's also plagued by controversies that travellers can avoid. At 2,840m above sea level ...

In addition, acclimation to elevation is crucial. The Inca Trail begins in Cusco, one of the highest cities in Peru. Acclimating to the trail’s elevation will help mitigate altitude sickness ...

Atahualpa was an Inca king who, after warring with his half-brother, Huáscar, for control of the empire, was captured at his palace in Cajamarca in modern-day Peru ... The gold trail went cold ...

Set in the Andes Mountains, the site was once an estate for the Inca emperor, as well as a place of worship and education. When the Spanish conquered Peru ... hike the Inca Trail, your tour ...

Note: Some of the below destinations may be affected by the civil unrest in Peru. Check with the U.S ... either by hiking the Inca Trail or snagging a seat on one of the tourist trains.