Explore the Magic of Inca Trail Flora: Top 5 Breathtaking Species

Ultima actualización en 2 December, 2024 por Waman Adventures

Last Updated on 2 December, 2024 by Waman Adventures

The Inca Trail Flora on the route to Machu Picchu is incredibly diverse, as the 43-kilometer trek crosses multiple ecological zones. The trail spans altitudes from 2,700 meters to 4,216 meters above sea level, offering a one-of-a-kind variety of plant species throughout the journey. Hiking the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu is a dream for many travelers all around the world, as this route combines perfectly the history of Peruvian culture with the geographical diversity of the region, especially in the Inca Trail Cloud Forest.

WHAT IS THE INCA TRAIL?

The Inca Trail is the most famous trekking route in Peru, covering 43 kilometers which blends the natural beauty of the Andes with the magnificence of Inca architecture. This iconic trail is part of the largest road network in South America, the great Qhapaq Ñan. The trek can be done on the classic 4-day tour or the shorter 2-day version.

THE INCA TRAIL FLORA ALONG THE ROUTE

MOLLE TREES

Known as Mulli in Quechua, molle trees are native and abundant across the Peruvian Andes, thriving at altitudes between 1,500 and 2,000 meters. These trees are found in countries like Peru, Bolivia, Argentina, and Chile. They were considered sacred during pre-Inca times by cultures such as the Wari, Mapuche, and Inca. These molle trees play a crucial role in soil conservation, they grow to heights of 8–10 meters and are commonly seen in tropical and dry regions. Along the Inca Trail, you’ll encounter these trees in the Andean zones.

Molle Tree

ORCHIDS

The name “orchid” derives from the Greek word meaning “testicles,” referencing the small tubers of some European orchids. Scientifically known as “Orchidaceae,” there are over 25,000 identified species worldwide. Orchids are the most iconic plants along the Inca Trail Cloud Forest, showcasing variations in size, color, and texture. Their flowers share a basic structure: three sepals and three petals.

Orchids are incredibly adaptive, thriving in the treetops and other nutrient-poor environments. The Inca Trail features up to 400 orchid species, with notable examples like Wiñayhuayna and Waqanki.

Why are orchids important?

• Diversity: They represent 7% of all flowering plants, making them the largest botanical family.
• Resilience: They dominate habitats with very limited nutrients, showcasing their adaptability.
• Conservation: Orchids are vital for plant conservation, representing a significant group in global biodiversity and serving as a highlight of the Inca Trail Cloud Forest.

Orchids along the Inca Trail

CEDAR TREE

Scientifically known as “Cedrela odorata,” cedar trees are distributed across the Americas. These majestic trees, part of the Inca Trail Wildlife, can reach heights of 20 to 40 meters, with thick, pyramid-shaped trunks and a distinctive pleasant aroma. Cedar trees can live up to 200 years. Their small flowers and woody fruits are 4–5 cm long, while their seeds are flat and brown.

Cedar trees are widely used for construction and decoration and possess medicinal properties. Cedar oil, for example, helps reduce inflammation, nourishes hair and protects the skin from bacteria and germs.

You will find cedar trees in the warmer, humid zones of the Inca Trail Wildlife, particularly near Machu Picchu.

ANGEL’S TRUMPETS

The scientific name of Angel’s Trumpets is “Brugmansia arborea.” Approximately 10 species exist, most of which are native to the Andean regions of South America. These fascinating plants can grow up to four meters tall, with large, membranous leaves measuring up to 35 centimeters in length.

Angel’s Trumpets are known for their hallucinogenic properties, consumed since pre-Hispanic times. The flowers, which resemble delicate trumpets, emit a distinctive aroma and attract different kinds of pollinators, including bees, moths, and butterflies.

While hiking the Inca Trail, you will watch a large number of Angel’s Trumpets within the Inca Trail Wildlife, particularly in the warmer sections during the final days of the trek.

QUEUÑA TREES

The Queuña tree belongs to the Polylepis genus, with approximately 20 species found in Peru. These resilient trees thrive on rocky slopes, moraines, and along small streams, typically at altitudes between 3,500 and 4,800 meters above sea level. They form patches of forests along the eastern and western slopes of the high Andes.

The Queuña’s twisted trunk is covered in reddish-brown bark, which peels off in thin layers. Its name, Polylepis, comes from the Greek words “poly” (many) and “lepis” (layers). This tree has a remarkable ability to absorb water from clouds and enrich the soil. Its small flowers are wind-pollinated, with reduced petals, prominent stamens, and broad stigmas.

Queuña trees can be spotted during the first two days of the Inca Trail trek, adding a touch of natural beauty to the journey.

CARNATIONS

Worldwide, there are over 250 varieties of carnations, with popular species including Poet’s Carnation, Turkish Carnation, and Pink Kisses Carnation. These versatile plants adapt to almost any climate. Their vibrant pink and blue flowers make them a standout feature along the Inca Trail, especially during the final stretches of the hike. Their resilience and beauty make them a memorable feature of the Inca Trail Wildlife.

PUYA RAIMONDI

Discovered by Italian naturalist Antonio Raimondi in Chavín de Huántar, the Puya Raimondii belongs to the bromeliad family, which includes pineapples. Named for the sharp spines on its flower clusters, this extraordinary plant takes up to 100 years to reach maturity. It grows to a diameter of two meters and can reach heights of 10 meters.

Also known as “Titanka,” the Puya Raimondii is ecologically significant for having the largest inflorescence in the plant kingdom, with up to 18,000 flowers per plant. This species is found in Peru, Bolivia, and Chile, but it is endangered due to illegal logging, agricultural expansion, and lack of reforestation.

On the Inca Trail, you can spot this plant in high-altitude areas above 3,000 meters, where its towering presence is a highlight for trekkers.

Puyas on the Inca Trail

FAUNA ALONG THE INCA TRAIL WILDLIFE

In addition to the rich flora found in the Inca Trail Cloud Forest, the Inca Trail Wildlife also hosts different kinds of fascinating animals. Some of the most common species include:

• Andean Condors: These majestic birds are an impressive sight as they soar above the Andes.
• Bears: These charismatic mammals can be seen in forested areas, although they are more elusive.
• Parrots and Hummingbirds: Numerous kinds of colorful bird species add vibrancy and sound to the trek.
• Viscachas: Small rodents that inhabit rocky areas and hillsides, adding charm to the landscape.
• Mountain Tigers (Jaguarundi): Rarely seen, these sleek predators are part of the diverse wildlife along the trail.
• Andean Foxes: These adaptable canines are often spotted in the lower elevations of the trail.

Observing the Inca Trail Flora in their natural habitat enriches the trekking experience, offering beginners a deeper connection with nature and the biodiversity along the path to Machu Picchu. If you are planning to book your unique adventure, do not hesitate to leave us a message, at Waman Adventures, we are willing to give you one of the best experiences in your life!

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