Inca Trail to Machu Picchu - Top 5 Treks in the World

The Inca Trail isn’t just a hike; it’s a legendary journey along the footsteps of the Inca Empire, taking you through history straight to Machu Picchu, one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. As you move along this historic path, you’ll pass through landscapes that shift from high Andean passes to tropical cloud forests and green valleys, each step immersing you deeper into the marvels of Inca culture. This was once a network of roads that connected the vast empire, and today it reveals its architectural genius and the enduring legacy of a civilization that left an indelible mark.

Typically, the Inca Trail starts at KM 82 near the town of Ollantaytambo and covers around 42 kilometres. Key highlights along the way include the challenging Dead Woman's Pass at 4,215 metres, the picturesque ruins of Runkurakay or Wiñay Wayna, a steeply terraced archaeological site with sweeping valley views. The trek culminates at Inti Punku, or Sun Gate, with your first breathtaking view of Machu Picchu from above.

Cusco and the Sacred Valley are culturally rich areas central to the Inca heritage. Cusco, the former Inca capital, is full of historical sites and colonial architecture, while the Sacred Valley's beautiful landscapes and traditional villages showcase Peru's cultural roots. Together they form the gateway to the Inca Trail experience, immersing trekkers in the history and traditions of the Andes.

At Bookatrekking.com, we handle every detail of your Inca Trail trek from start to finish. Our local guides are knowledgeable in Inca history, bringing each site to life. We secure your Machu Picchu permits, arrange transport from your hotel to the trailhead, and ensure a smooth return to Cusco. Our porters, who are fairly paid and equipped, carry your gear so you can trek freely. Our chefs prepare fresh, local meals each day. With us, you can focus on enjoying the trek—we’ll take care of the rest.

The Inca Trail is a must! Hiking it is an incredible, once-in-a-lifetime adventure you'll never forget! There is something truly magical about this cultural and historical trail in the Peruvian Andes. Along the way, you'll find some truly remarkable Inca landmarks that will add an extra layer of wonder to your trekking experience. These highlights act as a totally unforgettable bonus, and we've included some great examples below:

As you may already know, this is one of the most popular treks in the world and permits for the Inca Trail and Machu Picchu are mandatory and limited, issued by the Peruvian government with specific quotas. These tend to sell out quickly, especially during the high season from April to late September or early October, so we strongly recommend that you book well in advance to secure your place.

We manage the entire process for you, making sure everything is in place so you can concentrate on preparing for your adventure without the added stress. All you have to do is relax and make the most of this amazing trek!

Yes, the Inca Trail includes entry to both the trail and the ruins of Machu Picchu! After several days of trekking through stunning Andean landscapes and ancient Inca sites, your journey culminates with a guided tour of Machu Picchu. Expert guides will take you through the citadel's iconic structures and terraces, sharing insights into its architecture, historical significance and cultural mysteries for an immersive and unforgettable experience.

The Inca Trail requires a good level of fitness due to the steep sections and high passes, the highest point being Dead Woman's Pass at 4,215 metres. Trekkers typically cover 10-15 kilometres a day, walking 6-8 hours through varied landscapes. Remember that acclimatisation is essential to cope with the altitude gain and physical demands, and to reduce the risk of altitude sickness.

The best time to trek to Machu Picchu is generally during the dry season, from April to October. This season offers stable weather, with sunny days and clear skies-ideal for trekking. But beware, this is also the busiest period, especially from June to August, so early booking is recommended.

The rainy season runs from November to March and brings regular rain, making the trails muddy and more challenging. For those who want to avoid the crowds, this can be an option, but be prepared for rain and possibly lower visibility.

Machu Picchu itself is open year-round. However, the Inca Trail, the most popular route, is closed in February for maintenance. Alternative routes such as the Salkantay Trek do remain open then, so you can access the wonder of the world even during this time.

The different Inca Trail trekking alternatives offer a variety of trekking options to suit different schedules and preferences:

All of the above tours are guided and you'll be part of a group, as self-guided treks are not possible due to park regulations.

While the standard 4-day Inca Trail requires considerable stamina, the 2-day trek is shorter but still challenging. Those who prefer a more leisurely pace can take the 5-day Inca Trail. For the more athletic, there is the Inca Jungle Trail. Whichever route you choose, proper acclimatisation is essential to fully enjoy the experience.

Once in Machu Picchu, you will have the opportunity to explore the mystical citadel on a guided tour with a local guide who will explain the history and architecture of this wonder of the world. Want to make your experience even more special? Then choose to climb either Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu before returning to Cusco.

Huayna Picchu is the most popular choice, a steep and exciting climb that will take you to spectacular views of the citadel in 1-2 hours. This mountain is perfect for those who like a challenge and are not afraid of heights! Machu Picchu Mountain is slightly less steep and quieter, but offers a wider view of the entire ruins and surrounding valley. This climb takes about 2-3 hours and gives you plenty of time to take in the views. Both options require a special permit, so booking early is fundamental to secure your place.

Also, keep in mind that this additional permit is typically not included in the trek price and costs extra. If one of these mountains is in your bucket list, let us know and we can secure the permits to make sure your Machu Picchu adventure includes everything you hoped for!

After your guided group visit to Machu Picchu, you'll enjoy a wonderful return journey, starting with a bus back to Aguas Calientes and then a 2-hour train ride to Ollantaytambo. For those who want to immerse themselves in the beauty of the Andes with a touch of luxury, the Vistadome or 360º panoramic train offers breathtaking views of the landscapes through its large windows. This experience invites you to connect with the wonders of this sacred land through local music, traditional dances and even an onboard alpaca fashion show.

Upon arrival in Ollantaytambo, our team will be waiting for you to ensure a smooth 2-hour transfer back to your accommodation in Cusco around 7-8pm.

The Inca Trail is the well-known route to Machu Picchu, but with limited permits and high demand, many travelers seek alternatives. These routes offer varied terrain, fewer crowds, and a closer look at Andean culture. Here are some options beyond the classic trail:

• Short Inca Trail (2 Days): This option covers the final stretch of the classic Inca Trail, with one day of hiking and an overnight stay before visiting Machu Picchu. Ideal for those with limited time, it’s still packed with incredible scenery and archaeological sites, including the Wiñay Wayna ruins.
• Salkantay Trek (4 or 5 Days): Known for its striking variety, this trek passes snow-capped mountains, valleys, and tropical forests before reaching Machu Picchu. No permits are needed, and it includes an option to walk a section of the Inca Trail near the end, offering a taste of both worlds.
• Lares Trek (4 to 5 Days): A less-travelled route, it takes you through traditional Andean villages where you can experience local culture and see daily life up close. This trek combines scenic mountain views with cultural immersion and is an excellent option for those looking to avoid crowds.
• Choquequirao Trail Trek: For an authentic experience, consider the Choquequirao Trek. This multi-day trek leads to the ancient ruins of Choquequirao, often referred to as the 'sister city' of Machu Picchu, offering remote landscapes and a rewarding glimpse into Peru's past without the crowds. While this trek does not include Machu Picchu, it features a traditional Pachamanca barbecue, a true cultural experience.

When trekking high into Peru’s stunning mountains, altitude becomes part of the adventure. Altitude Mountain Sickness (AMS) can affect anyone and happens when your body needs time to adjust to lower oxygen levels at high elevations. Symptoms like headaches, nausea, and fatigue can set in quickly but are manageable with the right care.

With our experienced guides and porters, you're in safe hands. They’re fully trained in first aid and mountain safety, carrying oxygen, first aid kits, and satellite phones to keep you comfortable and help you acclimatize smoothly. That way, you can stay focused on enjoying the journey. Here are some tips to help you stay comfortable and reduce your risk of AMS:

• Take it slow and steady
• Stay hydrated
• Eat a balanced diet
• Talk to your doctor if you're considering medication
• Get as much rest as you need
• Don't overdo it - listen to your body
• Move to lower altitudes if symptoms persist

Always follow the advice of your local team and let them know if you experience any symptoms - they're there to help you focus on what's important: enjoying your adventure! To learn more about preventing AMS, check out this helpful blog post.