THE HISTORY
Vilcabamba is also commonly known as the ‘Lost City‘ of the Incas, however the modern name is ‘Espiritu Pampa‘ – which means ‘Plain of the Spirit‘.
Dating back to 1532-1572, this historic site was believed to be the last refuge & resistance of the Incan empire before it fell to the Spanish Invasion in 1572. Long afterwards the site was abandoned until being rediscovered in the 20th Century by Hiram Bingham, in 1911, with the help of local Peruvian guides.
Having won the battle of Ollantaytambo against the Spaniards in 1537, and under increasing pressure from further invasions by the Spanish, Manco Inca retreated from Ollantaytambo to Vitcos; and then finally to Vilcabamba.
Manco Inca brought together all those of the royal blood he could find; men and women alike, and retired to the wild forest of the Antis; to a place called Villcapampa where he lived in exile and solitude as one can imagine a dispossessed and disinherited prince would live. Until one day he was slain by a Spaniard whom he had sheltered and protected from enemies who had sought his death.
ROUTES INTO THE CITADEL
Routes to Vilcabamba
Enjoy an adventure taking you along historic trails used by the rebel Incas, as well as their pursuers.
This is the ultimate Machu Picchu Alternative trek. The route typically traverses South to North; to Espiritu Pampa and onto Chaunquiri (approx. 11-12 days trekking).
From here trekkers are transported by vehicle to Quillabamba where you can overnight should you wish to head to Machu Picchu on the final day.
So then; the following day, you’ll take a bus to the Hydroelectric Station via Santa Theresa; and onto Aguas Calientes before heading up to the Incan Citadel.
Trek Routes
- Vilcabamba to Machu Picchu Trek
- Vilcabamba to Espiritu Pampa Trek
- Choquequirao to Vilcabamba and Machu Picchu Expedition
