What Is The Highest Point of The Inca Trail?
Throughout the Inca Trail, we will see various mountains and walk along some pretty scenic passages. Some of these can be located at quite a high altitude, with many wondering what is the overall highest point that we will reach along the Inca Trail.
In this guide we will explore what the highest point of the Inca Trail is, and when you will reach it. We will also look at how you can prepare for this more difficult part of the trek, as well as answer any other questions you have in our FAQ section.
What Is The Highest Point of The Inca Trail?
Quick Answer: Whilst the altitudes are generally more tolerable on this route compared with those on treks like Ausangate and Salkantay, there is a stretch which is known to be more difficult.
It’s called the Dead Woman’s Pass, and is located at an altitude of 4215m (and is the overall highest point of the Inca Trail). It’s known as Warmiwañusca in the local Quechua language, and has two ways up with lots of stone steps.
How Can I Prepare For The Highest Point of The Inca Trail?
Much of your preparation for the Dead Woman’s Pass should be done before you even begin the Inca Trail. Following a good exercise routine the months prior is one of our top recommendations, which is important so you will be ready to handle the extra physical demands.
We will reach the Dead Woman’s Pass on the second day of the Inca Trail, so your body will have already had a day to warm up and get used to the extra exercise.
As well as this, we highly recommend spending at least 48 hours in Cusco before the trek, and also doing smaller treks in similar altitudes (such as to the 7 Lakes of Ausangate or to the ruins of Pisac). This will help your body adjust, and experience less potential issues such as altitude sickness.
The Highest Point of the Inca Trail FAQ
Using our extensive hiking experience along the Inca Trail, we’ll now answer some of the most frequent questions we get about the altitudes we’ll reach along the route.
What is the Elevation Gain of the Inca Trail?
The altitude along the hike can really vary between 2200m to 4200m, although it’s still quite easy to manage (especially with hikes that stay over 4000m for several days). The lowest point of the Inca Trail is Llactapata Ruins which has an altitude of 2250m, whilst the Dead Woman’s Pass is the highest at a total elevation of 4215m.
Can you get Altitude Sickness on the Inca Trail?
On average you’ll be walking at an altitude of around 3200m when on the Inca Trail. Whilst it’s much easier for the body than harder treks such as that of Rainbow Mountain, it’s still possible to get altitude sickness. We recommend bringing coca leaves or soroche pills to help manage symptoms, as well as spending at least 48 hours in Cusco prior to your hike to get adjusted to these higher altitudes.
What is the Scariest Part of The Inca Trail?
Although Dead Woman’s Pass may not have the most innocent and comforting name of all, there are other parts of the Inca Trail which have been reported as scarier by hikers. These are where the path gets quite narrow, where you can see a drop on the other side. Some parts of the Inca Trail where this happens include just after the Sun Gate, as well as before you reach Sayacmarca Ruins.
What Is The Highest Point of The Inca Trail?
And that’s all for this guide on what the highest point of the Inca Trail is.
One of the most epic hikes that you can do in all of South America, here we’ll see many incredible sceneries along the Inca Trail. This includes passing high-altitude regions such as the Dead Woman’s Pass, which requires some extra preparation beforehand.
Are you curious about how safe the overall route is? Then be sure to read this guide on how dangerous the Inca Trail is.