The Inca Trail to Machu Picchu is a transforming experience that combines adventure, history and spirituality. Along the way, you will find important archaeological sites such as Wiñay Wayna and Runkurakay, silent witnesses of a civilization that reached extraordinary levels of development in engineering and architecture.
The culmination of this epic journey is undoubtedly the arrival at Machu Picchu through the Inti Punku or Sun Gate, where you will have your first view of the Lost City of the Incas bathed by the first rays of dawn – a moment that will remain engraved in your memory forever.
Main Features
Impressive engineering with stone stairways, tunnels and cobblestone paths.
The classic trail is approximately 43 kilometers long
Crosses diverse ecosystems, from high jungle to Andean moorlands
Includes important archaeological sites such as Wiñay Wayna and Runkurakay
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Inca Trail 4 Days / 3 Nights
The 4-day Inca Trail is one of Peru’s most famous treks and an unforgettable experience. This trek takes you through mountains, cloud forests and ancient ruins, ending at the incredible citadel of Machu Picchu. Each day you walk for 6 to 8 hours, passing through varied landscapes and enjoying breathtaking views. You sleep in tents that are set up by a support team and enjoy meals prepared by local cooks. It is an adventure that combines nature, history and physical exertion.
The last day is the most exciting, as you get up very early to reach Machu Picchu at dawn. Watching the sun illuminate the ruins is a magical moment. After exploring the Inca citadel, you take a bus back to the town of Aguas Calientes and then a train to Cusco. Although it is a demanding hike, the beauty of the trail and the sense of accomplishment upon reaching Machu Picchu make it worth it. It is a unique experience that attracts travelers from all over the world.
Inca Trail 2 Days / 1 Night
The 2-day Inca Trail is a shorter and more accessible version of the classic route, ideal for those who have less time or prefer a less intense hike. It starts at km 104 of the railway, from where you walk to the archaeological site of Wiñay Wayna, one of the most impressive ruins on the trail. Then, you continue to the Sun Gate (Inti Punku), where you have a spectacular view of Machu Picchu. At the end of the first day, you arrive in Aguas Calientes to rest in a hotel.
The second day you wake up early to visit Machu Picchu and explore the citadel with a guide. You have time to tour the ruins, learn about the history of the Incas and take amazing pictures. Afterwards, you return by bus to Aguas Calientes and take the train back to Cusco. This option is perfect for those looking for a shorter but equally exciting experience, combining nature, history and the magic of Machu Picchu.
Other Inca Trail Treks
Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu – 2 Days
The Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu of 2 Days is specifically made for people who are short on time but don’t want to miss out on an unforgettable and incredibly beautiful experience. The Short Inca Trail is a small part of and an easier alternative to the classic Inca trail of 4 days that is consistently rated as one of the most beautiful trekking trails in America, if not even worldwide.
Salkantay, Inca Trail & Machu Picchu Trek – 6 Days
Salkantay & Inca Trail in 6 Days: More than a journey, it is a door to personal transformation. An expedition designed for those who are looking for something more than a simple trek, touristic journey.
Inca Trail to Machu Picchu Full Day Private
Welcome, adventurers, to a unique and unforgettable experience in the heart of the Peruvian Andes. Get ready to immerse yourselves in the rich history and millenary culture of the ancient Inca Empire through our Inca Trail & MACHUPICCHU Full Day Tour.
Information
The Inca Trail (also called the “Inca Trail” or “Inka Trail”) is one of the most important trekking routes in South America. This is due to its original Inca architecture, the archaeological remains along the way and the natural mix of jungle and cloud forest along the route.
Best time of the year to hike the Inca Trail
The best time to hike the Inca Trail is during the dry season, which runs from April to October. During these months, the weather is more stable, with sunny days and less chance of rain, which facilitates the hike and allows you to better enjoy the scenery and views. The months from June to August are the busiest, so it is recommended to book well in advance. Avoid the rainy season (November to March), as trails can become slippery and the weather less predictable.
How long is the Inca Trail
The Inca Trail has been divided into several routes and several sections, most of them start from: Km 82, and Km 104 of the railway route Cusco – Ollantaytambo – Machu Picchu Pueblo.
Depending on the time you have you can do the Inca Trail, either Inca Trail 2 days, Inca Trail 4 days, Inca Trail 6 days.
How to prepare and what to bring
Physical condition:
- The Inca Trail is demanding, so training in advance is recommended. Do long walks, hiking and cardiovascular exercises to improve your endurance.
- Acclimatization: Spend at least 2-3 days in Cusco or in areas of similar altitude to adapt to the altitude before starting the trek.
Reservations and permits:
- Book several months in advance, especially if you plan to hike the Inca Trail during high season (June-August).
- Hire an authorized agency, as it is mandatory to go with a certified guide.
Health:
- Consult a doctor before the trip.
- Take medicine for altitude sickness, headache, stomach upset and a basic first aid kit.
Planning and Reservations
- Reserve in advance:
Inca Trail permits are limited (only 500 people per day, including guides and porters). Book at least 6-8 months in advance, especially if traveling in high season (June-August). - Choose a reliable agency:
Hire an authorized agency that offers certified guides, porters and quality equipment. Read reviews and compare options. - Permits and documents:
Make sure you have your original passport, as it is required to enter Machu Picchu.
What to Bring
Clothing:
- Thermal layers for cold weather.
- Comfortable and breathable clothes for walking.
- Raincoat or poncho for rain.
- Used trekking shoes (avoid new shoes).
Equipment:
- 20-30 liter backpack (for daily trekking).
- Sleeping bag (suitable for low temperatures).
- Trekking poles (optional, but useful).
- Headlamp and extra batteries.
Accessories:
- Hat, sunglasses and sunscreen (solar radiation is strong).
- Insect repellent.
- Water bottle or canteen (some agencies provide purified water).
Documents:
- Original passport.
- Permits and entrance tickets.
- Cash (Peruvian soles) for tips, snacks and additional purchases.
Extras:
- Energy snacks (bars, nuts, chocolate).
- Camera or phone with good battery.
- Small towel and personal hygiene items (preferably biodegradable).
Physical Preparation and Acclimatization
- Training:
The Inca Trail is demanding, with steep climbs and altitude. Train with long walks, hiking and cardio workouts at least 2-3 months beforehand. - Acclimatization:
Spend 2-3 days in Cusco (3,399 m) or the Sacred Valley to acclimatize to the altitude before starting the trek.
Inca Trail Altitude
During the Inca Trail trek, the highest point on the Inca Trail is Abra Warmihuañusca which is at 4200 m, and the lowest point is the archaeological complex of Wiñayhuayna, known as siempre joven, which is at 2100 m.
Transportation on the Inca Trail
During the classic Inca Trail trek to Machu Picchu, the means of transportation used are the Porters, people who are in charge of transporting, on their back, the tents, cooking equipment, food, tables, benches, kitchenware, gas bottles, dining tents, kitchen tents, sleeping tents, which are necessary for you to enjoy your trip to Machu Picchu to the maximum.
Lodging on the Inca Trail
- The accommodation used on the Inca Trail route are tents or tents known as tents.
- On the Inca Trail route, there are campsites set up along the trail, where you can spend the night.
- Our company sends tents, with capacity for four people, where you can rest comfortably, however, we only place 2 people inside the tent.
