Inca Trail Flora
During the tour along the Inca Trail you will be able to observe a diverse wild flora, which includes species from both the high Andean zones and the jungle. Among the most outstanding species are catus, ferns, puya, orchids and various plants. It is estimated that there are around 50 species of trees per hectare, with almost 200 types of orchids recorded, as well as areas of moss, grasslands, bamboos, crops, bromeliads and timber species such as cedar and laurel. Finally, there is a wide variety of food and medicinal plants. Next, we will show you the existing flora of this route.
Puyas
Puya: Puya Bromeliaceae
Puyas, classified within the genus Puya, are plants that belong to the bromeliaceae family. Its distinctive characteristic lies in its long, spiny leaves, designed to retain water in arid environments. Endemic to the Andes, puyas thrive in diverse habitats, from cloud forests to paramos.
Puya: Puya herrerae
Puya herrerae is a flowering plant belonging to the bromeliaceae family. It is a perennial, terrestrial and monocarpic species, which indicates that it dies after its flowering period.
This plant plays a prominent role in the flora. Its ornamental appeal attracts tourists, making it a relevant element for ecotourism in the region. Furthermore, its importance transcends aesthetics, since it serves as a source of food for various animals, including birds and bats.
Cactus
Cactus: Lobivia Calorubra
Lobivia calorubra is a species of cactus. It is a succulent plant, with cylindrical and branched stems. It can reach up to 30 cm in height. Its flowers are red or orange. It flowers between September and November. It is important to be careful when handling the plant, as the thorns can cause pain and irritation.
Cactus: Opuntia ficus-indica
The Opuntia ficus-indica plays a significant role in local communities along the Inca Trail. Its fruits are a valuable source of food, while the stalks are used to make jams, sweets and other products. Likewise, this plant is used as fodder for livestock.
This cactus is most often found in especially arid regions. The Incas used it not only as a food source, but also to obtain water and as a medicinal resource. It is important to handle it with caution, as its spines can cause pain and skin irritation.
Campanilla : Stenomesson miniatum
The Bellflower, scientifically known as Stenomesson miniatum, graces certain stretches of the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu with its perennial bulbous presence. Endemic to the Andes, this delicate flower thrives at elevations ranging between 2,500 and 3,500 meters above sea level. Adorned with enchanting deep red, bell-shaped blossoms, it forms clusters of up to 10 flowers in each inflorescence. La Campanilla, as it is fondly referred to, delights hikers along the trail’s path from Abra Málaga to Inti Punku.
Orquidea
Orquidea: Elleanthus aureus
Elleanthus aureus, a species of epiphytic orchid belonging to the Orchidaceae family, stands out for its striking bright yellow flowers, adorned with a white lip dotted with purple. These medium-sized flowers are grouped in inflorescences that can contain up to 10 specimens. Its dark green, leathery leaves are long, and the plant can reach a height of up to 50 cm.
Orquidea: Masdevallia veitchiana
The Masdevallia veitchiana, also known as the “Golden Angel Orchid”, stands out as an exceptional species along the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu. This epiphytic orchid, a member of the Masdevallia genus within the Orchidaceae family, captivates with its exquisite golden-yellow flowers, often adorned with delicate red stripes and spots on petals and sepals. Endemic to the Andes, it thrives at moderate altitudes, mainly between 2,000 and 3,500 meters above sea level. Recognized as one of the most iconic orchid species in the region.
Orquidea: Epidendrum secundum
The Epidendrum secundum orchid, also known as the “Queen of the Andes”, is a distinctive species found along the Inca Trail. Noted for its small, numerous flowers grouped in dense clusters, this orchid exhibits white or pale yellow tones, exhaling a delicate floral perfume.
This epiphytic plant, which grows on others without parasitizing them, prefers cool and humid environments, so it is often found in misty areas or near water sources along the Inca Trail.
