Which Inca Trail Is Best To Hike?
One of the best hiking trails you can complete in Peru, the Inca Trail is a true bucket list item for adventure travelers and enthusiasts alike.
After you’ve decided to take the Inca Trail on, you may have found that there are a variety of different options to choose from, which can vary in both tour length as well as the choice between a private or group tour.
In this guide we’ll explore which Inca Trail is best for you to hike. This includes a breakdown of each trail, what you can expect as well as any other important things to keep in mind when selecting a route.
Which Inca Trail Is Best To Hike?
Quick Answer: Overall the best Inca Trail to hike really comes down to you and what experience you want.
Those who want the full experience (and are physically and logistically prepared) will love the 5 Day Inca Trail, where you will see everything possible along the route.
On the other hand, those who want a more light experience (or are short on time) may prefer the 2 Day Inca Trail Hike.
The Different Inca Trail Experiences
Here we’ll now explore various Inca Trail Experiences that are on offer. For a full list of our Inca Trail Hikes be sure to check out this page.
The 2 Day Inca Trail Hike
Firstly we begin with one of the most economical and straightforward Inca Trail options.
Here we will hike for around 15 km the first day, seeing the very best highlights along the route. It’s quite demanding, however the second day we will spend enjoying Machu Picchu before enjoying the train ride back.
The 2 Day Inca Trail costs around $475, and includes all meals, transport and Hotel of 3 stars.
The 4 Day Inca Trail Hike
This classic trek is one of the most popular, given you’ll walk the entire length of the route until you reach Machu Picchu.
You will be walking on average 5-9 hours each day (11-16 km), seeing sights such as Runkurakay Ruins, Dead Woman’s Pass as well as the Sun Gate.
Whilst it can vary between companies, on average the 4 Day Inca Trail costs roughly $695, which includes entry to all archaeological sites, all meals as well as basic lodging.
The 5 Day Inca Trail Hike
Although it follows the same route, there are some notable differences between the 5 Day and 4 Day Inca Trail Hikes.
Firstly you’ll be able to relax more, as the hikes will be more gentle with less walking required each day. You’ll also get to visit Machu Picchu twice (once in the morning and also in the afternoon), whilst getting to explore extra ruins such as Intipata and Wiñaywayna which you won’t see on the shorter Inca Trails.
This Longer 5 Day Trek costs around $950, and includes everything you’ll need such as all meals, hiking equipment, lodging and all entrance tickets.
The Private Inca Trail Tour
This flexible option is the best for those who want the most customisable experience, where you can enjoy the Inca Trail at your own pace.
You’ll follow the same route as the standard 4 Day Inca Trail, whilst also having your own private guide and team of porters and cooks. The major benefit is that you can choose to spend more time at certain destinations than others, and also have a private guide who tailors the service for you.
The Private Inca Trail Tour costs roughly $980, and includes everything such as your own private guide, team of porters and cooks, entrance tickets, meals and lodging.
Personal Considerations When Choosing An Inca Trail Hike
First and foremost, we have logistical issues which include how much time you have, as well as your budget available. You’ll find a range of tours available for most kinds of travelers, although it’s important to keep in mind that you’ll need at least a minimum of 2 days as well as a budget of at least $550.
Your level of fitness is also very important. Of course you can push yourself to do the harder hikes even if you’re not completely prepared, and some do like doing it this way. However the most enjoyable hikes are those that you are well prepared for, so again it’s best to be humble here.
Finally we have your expectations of the Inca Trail hike. Whilst also passing through the same route, different hikes include different experiences. For example if you love ruins, then the 5 Day Tour is a better option than the 4 Day Tour (given you’ll get to visit inside the ruins of Intipata).
Which Inca Trail Is Best To Hike?
And that’s all for this guide on which Inca Trail is best to hike.
Deciding you will take on the Inca Trail is a great feeling, however it is only the first step. You’ll then realize there are several options to choose from, however it is easy to narrow these down once you know your budget, timeframe and the kind of experience that you want.
Perhaps you’re looking for a different kind of hiking experience? In the Sacred Valley we can find many incredible experiences, so be sure to check out this guide on alternatives to the Inca Trail.