The Ultimate Inca Trail Guide (For 2024)
One of the most popular hiking circuits on the planet, the Inca Trail is a really memorable experience.
Spending several days along the path, we will see everything from spiraling mountains and ancient archaeological ruins to native Andean culture and the legendary site of Machu Picchu.
In this comprehensive guide we will cover everything you need to know about hiking the Inca Trail. This includes our local experience and best tips, the different treks you can do as well as how to prepare well before you embark on this incredible journey.
Are You Thinking Of Heading On The 4 Day Inca Trail Hike?
This bucket-list experience really is a must when in Peru, where you can enjoy remote landscapes, connect with the local culture and take some once-in-a-lifetime photos.
We are currently accepting bookings for 2024 and 2025, so be sure to reserve your spot now as spaces are limited!
Table of Contents
The Ultimate Inca Trail Guide
What Is The Inca Trail?
The Inca Trail is an ancient path that is found in the Peruvian Andes, just outside of Cusco. Once used by the Inca civilization, today it is a popular tourist attraction for those looking to explore beautiful scenery and ruins on their way to Machu Picchu.
The official route is 42 km long, which begins at the marker of Km 82 and finishes at the Sun Gate. However, in reality this route is just a small section of the much larger network of trails.
The entire Inca Trail actually measures a total distance of 23,000km, that begins as far south as Argentina and leads all the way to Colombia!
There were many important uses of the Inca Trail during these times. Most were commercial, allowing a safer passage for people and goods between different regions of South America.
In certain areas it also allowed groups who lived here (such as those in Intipata Ruins) to quickly reach nearby towns and warn of any imminent attacks or danger.
The Unique History Of The Inca Trail
These ancient paths were first built in the early 15th Century by the Inca for their emperor Pachacutec.
As previously mentioned, this route extends much further than the modern-day Inca Trail trek, connecting the entire region that once belonged to them. Collectively this was known as Tahuantinsuyo, which covers the majority of the South American continent.
During these times, locals would hike for several days or weeks along this path. They would stop at tambos, which were resting points between key sites. They would also bring local animals such as llamas along the way, which helped to transport merchandise and other important necessities.
On the classic Inca Trail (which is the 42km section that we hike along), we can see various key sites. These include Salapunku, Llactapata, Sayacmarca, Wiñay Wayna and of course Machu Picchu.
These ancient towns mostly served for administrative purposes, which were each ruled by a chosen Barayok (leader). They were also spaced strategically along the route, where local chasqis could run between each site delivering important news on impending dangers or attacks.
This entire system worked in perfect harmony for over a century, until the arrival of the Spanish Empire in 1526. Interestingly enough, the majority of the sites along the Inca Trail (including Machu Picchu) were never actually discovered by the Spanish.
It’s still not known today why these sites were eventually abandoned, however it’s believed that it could have been due to a smallpox epidemic, civil wars or disbandment after the Inca Emperor was eventually captured.
Why Visit The Inca Trail?
Firstly, the Inca Trail offers breathtaking scenery right from the beginning until the very end. Even as you drive to the starting point you will see Andean peaks towering from all sides, and these only get larger and more impressive the further along you head.
The Dead Woman’s Pass is one of the most iconic natural sites we’ll see, along with the cloud forest of Phuyupatamarca.
The Inca Trail is also full of gripping history too. Whilst the museums throughout Peru are always great for learning about this country’s deep history, nothing can beat this trail where your guide will show you around various archaeological sites that are hidden deep within the mountains.
Machu Picchu of course remains the top highlight, however we can also find other incredible ruins such as those of Intipata and Sayacmarca.
Lastly, the Inca Trail is a must for those who love a challenge as well as experiencing one of South America’s greatest adventures. You’ll need to prepare well for this trail given it isn’t easy, however this is what makes it so fulfilling (since you would be part of a minority who make it along the full 42km route).
You can learn more about why the Inca Trail is worth visiting here.
How To Get To The Inca Trail
You’ll firstly need to head to Cusco, which is a popular city located within the Peruvian Andes. You can fly from Lima in just an hour with several airlines like Sky and LATAM, or take the 22 hours bus across the country.
It’s important to know that you must be accompanied by an official guide to enter the Inca Trail. For this reason your experience will actually begin in Cusco, where you meet up with your group and then take a ride over to the entrance of the hiking route.
The Different Inca Trail Hikes
As we have mentioned, the Inca Trail here in Peru is an established route. However there are a variety of different trips you can take, which vary in the amount of days you spend along the route (as well as other factors such as your comfort and having a more private or luxurious experience).
The 2 Day Inca Trail Hike
Firstly we have the shortest hike possible, which is best for those who are short on time or want something more relaxed. Overall you will hike roughly 13km, beginning from the alternative starting point of Km 104.
During your first day you will hike through sites such as Wiñay Wayna as well as the Sun Gate, before reaching Aguascalientes. On your second day you will visit Machu Picchu and the town of Aguascalientes, before making your way back to Cusco. You can find out more about the 2 Day Inca Trail hike here.
The Short 2 Day Inca Trail Itinerary is as follows:
- Day 1: Cusco – Kilometer 104 – Aguas Calientes
- Day 2: Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu – Ollantaytambo – Cusco
The 4 Day Inca Trail Hike (Our Top Recommendation)
Next we have the classic 4 day trek, which remains the most popular option. Here you will see everything possible, first beginning at the official starting point at Km 82.
Each day you will walk between 5-9 hours, seeing various archaeological sites and camping in unforgettable locations up within the Andes. On your fourth and final day you enter Machu Picchu early as you head down from the Sun Gate. You can read more about the 4 Day Inca Trail hike here.
The Classic 4 Day Inca Trail Itinerary is as follows:
- Day 1: Cusco – Piskacucho – Km 82 – Wayllabamba
- Day 2: Wayllabamba – Ayapata – Warmiwañusca – Pacaymayo
- Day 3: Pacaymayo – Chaquicocha – Inti Pata – Wiñaywayna
- Day 4: Wiñaywayna – Machupicchu – Aguas Calientes – Cusco
The Private 4 Day Inca Trail Hike
On this more exclusive experience we’ll follow the same route as the group hike above, however it will be much more customisable. This means you can tailor the experience to exactly how you like, which includes how much time you spend at each site, which campsite you choose, meal preferences etc.
It’s also a great choice since you can hike at your own pace, and not be worried about slowing a group down or having to wait for others to catch up before continuing on. You can read more about the Private 4 Day Inca Trail hike here.
The Private 4 Day Inca Trail Itinerary is as follows (it follows a similar route to the classic 4 day, but does change in certain parts):
- Day 1: Cusco – Km 82 – Hatunchaca – Patallacta – Ayapata
- Day 2: Ayapata – Dead Woman’s Pass – Runkuraqay – Chaquicocha
- Day 3: Chaquicocha – Intipata – Wiñaywayna
- Day 4: Machu Picchu – Aguas Calientes – Cusco
The 5 Day Inca Trail Hike
Finally we have the longest tour of all. It’s important to mention that you will be covering the same 42km route as you would on the 4 day hikes, although you’ll be hiking less on each individual day. As well as this, you’ll also visit Machu Picchu a second time on your fifth day, early in the morning before the crowds arrive.
This is by far the best option for those who love a longer adventure, as well as for those who want less physical exertion on each day. You can read more about the 5 Day Inca Trail hike here.
The Extended 5 Day Inca Trail Itinerary is as follows:
- Day 1: Cusco – Ollantaytambo – Hatunchaca /Chamana
- Day 2: Chamana – Wayllabamba – Llulluchapampa
- Day 3: Llullucpampa – Runkurakay – Sayacmaraca Ruins – Phuyupatamarca Ruins
- Day 4: Phuyupatamarca – Wiñay Wayna – Sun Gate – Machu Picchu – Aguas Calientes
- Day 5: Machu Picchu – Cusco
What To See And Do On The Inca Trail
The Inca Trail is full of incredible sites, scenery and culture. This means we’ll find countless attractions and experiences along the route. Below we’ll take a look at some of the very best.
Explore Various Ancient Archaeological Ruins
Machu Picchu remains the most iconic site, however there’s much more to this region than just this picturesque citadel. Intipata is another incredible archaeological site which boasts panoramic views over the Urubamba river, and makes for a perfect photo with the surrounding mist.
We’ll also find various sites deep within the jungle. Sayacmarca is one of these, which appears like something out of a sci-fi film and has some impressive canopy views over the surrounding rainforest. Runkurakay is another small site which also has some jagged rocks and mountains lying behind.
Other notable sites you’ll see along the Inca Trail include Puyuputamarca and Salapunku, which all have their own history and importance to the Inca who once used these.
Be sure to read our detailed guide to learn more about these fascinating ruins.
Enjoy A Variety Of Stunning Landscapes
On the Inca Trail we will be blessed with all kinds of incredible scenery. At the beginning we will pass through rural highlands and local villages, where the sun will also be warmer at these lower altitudes.
From here we then hike up into the Andean mountains, heading through lush green jungle and seeing cloud forests and alpine lakes along the way. Of course the weather can and will change along the journey, so make sure you pack well (we will explore how to pack properly later in this guide).
See Wildlife Endemic To This Region
Another underrated reason to hike along the Inca Trail is because of the amount of fauna and flora that you will encounter.
On the route we will pass through numerous biomes including high jungle, rocky mountains as well as cloud forest. This means there’s plenty to keep your eyes peeled for, as well as the fact that this route is protected and controlled (less human disturbance means nature flourishes more here).
Whilst rare, it’s possible to see incredible animals such as Pumas and Spectacled Bears, although you’ll need to be quiet (and lucky) given they stay their distance from humans.
On the majority of Inca Trail hikes it’s likely you will see Alpacas, Condors and Frogs along the way, so keep your camera out and ready!
Experience Andean Culture At It’s Very Best
There’s a good chance you will have already spent time in Cusco (or other areas of Peru) before heading on the Inca Trail, and have seen various customs of Andean cultures.
However many travelers that head on this hike are pleasantly surprised at just how culturally immersive this experience is. Here at ABExpeditions, our team is completely local, meaning that all guides, porters and cooks come from around the Sacred Valley region.
This means you’ll often hear them speaking the local Quechua language, as well as sharing some of their best foods and tips with you along the hike (another great reason to learn some Spanish beforehand!).
Preparing For The Inca Trail
Preparing properly is half the battle, and will make your experience go much smoother and easier. Here we’ll explore how you can best prepare for the Inca Trail.
Packing List For The Inca Trail
Packing could easily merit an article of its own, and it’s another really important part of preparing for your Inca Trail hike. Below we’ll outline what you will need. This includes your essentials, range of clothes as well as any other miscellaneous items.
Clothes:
- Warm Hat / Chullo
- Baseball Cap (to prevent sunburn)
- Polarized Sunglasses
- Warm Base Layers
- Jumpers
- Poncho (especially if heading in the wet season)
- Gloves
- Long Hiking Trousers
- Hiking Boots
- Any other Clothes that you feel comfortable hiking in for long periods
Important Items:
- Passport
- Copy of Travel Insurance
- Wallet
- Cash (for buying extras along the way as well as for tipping)
- Phone or Camera
- Toiletries
- Personal Medications
- Water Bottle
Miscellaneous:
- Sleeping Bag
- Torch
- Walking Poles
- Insect Repellant
- Sunscreen
- Lip Balm
- Coca Leaves / Soroche Pills (preventing altitude sickness)
You can see our full Inca Trail Packing List for more ideas on what you will need during the hike.
Preventing Altitude Sickness
Another common issue that affects travelers heading along the Inca Trail is the altitude. Here the altitude ranges between 2500m to 4200m above sea-level, which can often cause unpleasant symptoms. These range from headaches and sickness to shortness of breath.
It’s important to remember that altitude sickness really does vary between people, so some may get it at 2500m, whilst others don’t get it at all along the Inca Trail. Regardless, it’s best to prepare just in case.
The first best method is to spend at least two days in Cusco prior to your trek, and also to do a hike or two in the Sacred Valley to get adjusted. Secondly we recommend bringing altitude sickness pills (Soroche Pills) as well as Coca Leaves which help prevent altitude sickness.
Physical Preparation
Being in good shape is a necessary requirement before embarking on any Inca Trail hike. This is because you will walk up to 7 hours on any day, covering up to 25,000 steps each day!
There are many uphill stretches as well as downhill paths which can be hard, so following a good exercise routine for a few weeks or months before is a good idea.
We recommend starting a few months prior to your hike (if possible), with 1-2 short hikes every week to get your muscles used to walking for longer distances. Preferably they would be in nature too, so you get used to walking along uneven paths as well as on hills and slopes.
Once in Cusco you can also head on a couple of gentle hikes too for some final preparation, such as up to the Cristo Blanco Statue (or around smaller mountains within the Sacred Valley).
Staying Alert During The Inca Trail
Many will prepare really well before the Inca Trail, however leave it at that once they finally get here. However we think this is a big mistake! Whilst proper preparation makes things much easier, you still need to keep an eye out for a few things along the way.
Firstly you’ll want to make proper use of the equipment you have. Although the altitude is not as high as other treks in the region, it’s still a wise idea to take altitude sickness medications in the morning, and also to walk at a slow pace (it’s a marathon after all).
You’ll also have your own tent and sleeping bag which will be transported for you by your personal porter. Make sure to always leave it zipped-up to prevent animals or insects making an unwelcome entrance, and also to leave your shoes and belongings inside too.
Another important consideration is your awareness of what is around you. Sometimes the paths can be slippery so you’ll want to walk slowly along these stretches. It’s also likely you may pass other groups on the way, so be sure to give a clear vocal warning before passing them (and also keep an eye out for the porters who will often fly by too!).
How To Stay Safe On The Inca Trail
It’s vitally important to remember that although the Inca Trail is a popular route, we will still be walking along unpredictable paths for a long period of time.
Here at ABExpeditions we will always do what we can to keep you safe. This includes giving a proper briefing, refilling your water bottles, giving necessary reminders along the way as well as having access to satellite phones in case we need to make contact in an emergency.
One of the biggest risks that we will face is actually the sun itself. Although temperatures can get pretty cold at times, the sun will be even more intense at these altitudes. For this reason it’s important to keep reapplying sunscreen, wear a hat as well as drink at least 3 liters of water a day.
The second risk will be personal accidents such as tripping along the route. Although well-maintained, it’s still easy to trip between stones so you’ll always need to keep your eyes on the path. This also means not veering off the path, and again listening to what your guide says as you continue along the Inca Trail.
Lastly we have the surrounding nature. Mosquitoes can be an issue in the wet season (as well as at times during the dry season), so you’ll want to invest in a high-quality bug spray to keep them at bay. There is a possibility of encountering dangerous animals too such as poisonous snakes, pumas and speckled bears, although it is very rare since they stay away from humans. Please listen carefully to your guide in the event that you do encounter these along the route.
If you’re still curious, then you can read this guide to learn more about the different risks when hiking the Inca Trail.
When Is The Best Time To Hike The Inca Trail?
Choosing the right time of year for heading on the Inca Trail is an important decision you need to make. We personally think that all months of the year are great in their own particular way (except of course February when the Inca Trail is closed for maintenance).
Most months can be separated into the dry and wet seasons, with each offering different experiences which we’ll explore below.
Visiting During The Dry Season
The dry season in this region of Peru begins in April and lasts until October. Given rainfall levels are so low, this time of the year is by far the most popular for a hike. Here you will have blue skies most days, as well as clear nights where you can easily see the stars.
The main disadvantage of heading during the dry season is that temperatures will be much cooler than the wet season. This means you’ll need to pack more warm clothes. You’ll also need to book your spot well in advance too, given tours can sell out many months before (remember that there are limited places available).
Visiting During The Wet Season
The wet season along the Inca Trail starts in November and lasts until March. Heavy showers are common throughout these months, which can make paths slippery and can cause accidents, as well as having an increased chance of landslides. It’s more likely to have cloudy skies during the wet season, although it’s also possible to have clear skies (the weather is quickly changing and more unpredictable this time of year).
Warmer temperatures are found throughout the wet season, which makes hiking more comfortable (especially when starting early in the morning). You’ll actually find that the early months of November and December are quite pleasant, given the heavy showers have not yet started. Nature lovers will also appreciate this time of year, given there is more lush green vegetation as well as animals to be spotted along the Inca Trail.
High and Low Tourist Periods
One of the best things about the Inca Trail is that there is a limited capacity of tourists allowed on the trail each day (which is currently set at 500). This means that even at full capacity, it will still feel very authentic and peaceful along the route as there are giant distances that space out the different groups.
The months around the dry season and Christmas are the busiest, so be sure to book your spot at least 6 months prior to your departure date if heading around these times.
The wet season is less popular, so you may be able to get lucky and book a last minute spot. During this time of the year the trails will be even quieter, making it better for spotting wildlife along the trail.
The Last Important Consideration For Choosing The Best Period
Above everything else that we have mentioned above, the most important factor for choosing the best hiking period is you and what you want.
This means it all depends on what you personally want from your trek. For example if you prefer clear skies and little rain, then of course the dry season would be best. However if you also dislike crowds, then perhaps it would be better to pick a shoulder month like November or April.
Do you love nature and vibrant green colors? Then the wet season provides the perfect backdrop, where you will hike through lush green jungle on your way to Machu Picchu (also with a higher chance of seeing rare animals and plants).
So be sure to spend some extra time considering what you want before booking your trip, and doing more investigation if necessary.
How To Book Your Inca Trail Hike
Once you’ve decided you want to take on the Inca Trail, it’s now time to book your spot. As already mentioned, it’s a good idea to book at least 6 months in advance as spaces are limited and tend to sell out quickly. Of course you can also book last-minute if you are a flexible traveler and find a space free (which is more likely during the wet season).
It’s best to book your Inca Trail hike online. This makes sense given you probably won’t be in Peru yet, and can also have everything planned and ready for when you do arrive here.
There are many companies all around Cusco (and even Peru) that offer the Inca Trail hike, so it’s best to do your research on them and find out how each experience differs. Some offer a more luxurious experience, whilst others are more culturally-ingrained and support the local Andean communities.
Why You Should Book With ABExpeditions
We are an experienced hiking operator based in Cusco, with numerous years offering tours all over the region.
The Inca Trail is one of our very best hikes that we offer, and our team is full of local knowledge that really helps you connect with the area and have the best experience possible. This includes using local guides, as well as supporting our team of porters and chefs that will also accompany you along the Inca Trail.
Here at ABExpeditions we also take your safety seriously, which is always important when hiking in remote areas. We use the very best equipment during your hike, including warm sleeping bags as well as sturdy tents for you to rest in. Our guides will always brief you on how to stay safe on the route, and give you tips and advice along the way too. We even offer vegetarian and vegan menus too, as well as altered options for those with dietary restrictions.
We also offer a variety of tour options that vary depending on your interests, budget and time available. This includes the 2 Day, 3 Day, 4 Day and 5 Day tours which are ideal for different travelers. Some of these options are customisable too, which is great if you have particular trip requirements or want to spend longer in certain areas.
If you are ready to book your Inca Trail hike or have more questions, then please contact us.
Costs Of Hiking The Inca Trail
Another important part of planning your hike is factoring in the costs. The Inca Trail is an expensive hike to take part in, and for that reason you’ll want to set aside extra budget in advance for it.
The amount you’ll pay depends on which trek you choose, however prices can vary from $399-1000+. Usually the shorter hikes are less expensive, whilst those which are longer (or are private or include premium accommodation) will cost more.
You can pay for your spot in advance online, which is highly recommended given how popular the hike is. Whilst everything is included (such as equipment, food etc) you’ll also want to bring extra Soles with you. This will come in handy for buying extra snacks along the way if you want, as well as for giving additional tips to your porters or the chefs. We would recommend bringing an extra 200-400 Soles with you on the Inca Trail.
You can read this guide to find out how much each different Inca Trail hike costs (and what each includes).
Alternative Hikes To The Inca Trail
There’s a chance that you have read everything up until now, and are still not convinced that the Inca Trail is right for you. And that’s completely fine! Everyone is different and has their different tastes and goals.
Thankfully the Sacred Valley region around Cusco offers plenty more incredible multi-day hikes that you can also enjoy. Below we’ll explore a few of the very best.
Ausangate Trek (2-6 Days)
This experience is much better for those who prefer snow-capped peaks, as well as seeing different lagoons along the way. The 4 Day Trek is one of the most popular, although you can also find tours from 2-6 days in length.
This trek is more challenging than the Inca Trail, as well as being located up at a higher altitude. For this reason you’ll want to make sure you’re in good shape and properly acclimated before heading on it.
You can read more about the different Ausangate treks here.
Salkantay Trek (4-5 Days)
The Salkantay Trek is much more challenging than the Inca Trail, given the routes covered as well as the higher altitudes. As well as visiting Machu Picchu at the end of the trek, you’ll also get to see the stunning blue lagoon of Humantay.
Salkantay tends to be a similar price to the Inca Trail, although you’ll need to prepare more for this one as you’ll be trekking in more remote landscapes.
You can read more about the different Salkantay Treks here.
Lares & Inca Trail Combined Hike (5 Days)
If you are after a quieter hike whilst seeing more natural beauty, then the Lares trek would be a great choice for you.
Here we will still visit the Inca Trail (although a shortened version), as well as seeing the highlights of Lares. This includes stunning waterfalls, remote Andean towns as well as giant glaciers.
You can read more about the 5 Day combined Laras and Inca Trail hike here.
Our Top Inca Trail Tips
We have been operating tours since 2014, and have seen just about everything possible. This means we know the very best ways for you to prepare for your trip, as well as other tips below for you to have the very best experience possible.
Take Physical Preparation Seriously
If there’s just one tip that you will remember, please let it be this one. Whilst incredibly beautiful, the Inca Trail is a demanding hike which must be taken seriously. You will be walking up to 42 km over various days, and also at altitudes which you may not be used to (which makes it harder).
We recommend having a good level of fitness before taking on the Inca Trail, as well as following a fitness plan in the months prior. Please follow our altitude tips too, which you can find earlier in this article (these include spending at least 2 days in Cusco prior, as well as bringing Coca Leaves).
Keep An Open Mind Before And During The Hike
Whilst preparing your body is essential, you’ll also want to relax your mind too before heading on the Inca Trail. This includes not creating too many expectations, such as always wanting perfect weather or a completely comfortable hike.
Of course preparation is very important, however once you arrive be sure to relax your expectations and enjoy the path as you head along this formidable ancient route. You can also ask your guide to learn some Quechua words to share with your team of porters, or also try some of the more native Peruvian dishes that your cooks will make for you!
Learn Some Spanish Before Arriving
This one leads on well from our last point, and is a good general tip before heading anywhere in Peru. Spanish is the dominant language here, and everyone in Cusco will know it (as well as the native Quechua language which hails from the Andes mountains).
Whilst your tour guide will know English, virtually all of the other porters and cooks will not know any. Whilst you don’t need to become fluent (although that can also offer many advantages), learning just a few phrases will help you connect with them and have a more memorable experience, as well as getting to learn more about the local culture and sites.
Bring A High-Quality Power Bank
It’s important to remember that as soon as you leave Cusco, you will have no electricity available to charge your phone or camera. Whilst you might be okay on the 2 Day hike (depending on your battery length), we would still recommend investing in a high quality power bank.
Not only is there a lot to see and take pictures of along the way, you’ll also find that your phone will run out of battery quicker as temperatures can get quite cold (which makes batteries work harder). When selecting a model, we recommend choosing one that has 20,000mAh, which allows for multiple full-charges.
Try And Keep A Flexible Schedule
This is one of the harder tips to follow, especially if you only have a few weeks in Peru and want to travel quickly to a different destination after completing the Inca Trail.
However, in our experience, many travelers fall in love with the Sacred Valley during the hike, and want to explore more of its routes and attractions. This includes visiting Ausangate, hiking to Choquequirao as well as exploring towns such as Chinchero and Pisac. If possible, we would recommend having an extra week free in Cusco after (or before) your Inca Trail hike.
The Ultimate Inca Trail Guide
And that’s all for this ultimate guide on the Inca Trail.
This incredible hiking route is a really memorable one, where you will see incredible landscapes as well as get in touch with the local culture.
Preparing properly before and during your hike is essential, and in this comprehensive guide we have covered everything you need to know. This includes how to manage the altitude, what to pack as well as our own personal tips to have the best experience possible.
We recommend revisiting this article whenever you need extra guidance, and also to get in touch with us to book your Inca Trail ticket once you are ready to take on this incredible adventure.