Inca Trail

What Is the Inca Trail?

The Inca Trail to Machu Picchu is one of the world’s most iconic treks, blending breathtaking scenery with the rich history of the Inca civilization.

The early twentieth-century historian Hiram Bingham III has often been called the real-life “Indiana Jones.”He even inspired some of the costumes and mannerisms of the movie character. In 1911, financed by a joint Yale–National Geographic expedition, Bingham made his way to Machu Picchu. Guided by the farmer Melchor Arteaga and other local experts, he followed sections of the Inca Trail until he came upon “an unexpected sight, a great flight of beautifully constructed stone terraces, each hundreds of feet long and ten feet high.”

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This was Machu Picchu ...

Decades later, in 1975, it was Explorandes, founded by Alfredo Ferreyros, that became the first tour operator to officially run the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu. Motivated by his passion for mountaineering and trekking in the wilderness, Alfredo wanted to share the immeasurable beauty of the Andes with the world. His pioneering vision led to new trekking routes to Machu Picchu and the lesser-known Choquequirao. Today, trekkers literally walk in the footsteps of the Incas when hiking the unforgettable Inca Trail.

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How long is the Inca Trail?

The original Andean road system, known as the Qhapaq Ñan, covered more than 40,000 km (25,000 miles) and stretched from Colombia to Argentina. It traversed ecosystems ranging from snow-capped Andean summits to the Pacific coast, winding through some of Earth’s most varied terrain — barren deserts, fertile valleys, and humid tropical forests.

It took several hundred years to build this vast network of roads, which facilitated trade, communication, and defense for the Inca Empire. Based on four major routes radiating from Cusco, the Inca capital, the Qhapaq Ñan stands as a unique achievement of engineering.

Some sections of this immense system were originally built by the Wari and Tiwanaku civilizations, who predated the Inca. The Inca conquerors appropriated and improved upon these earlier roads. Later, with the arrival of the Spanish in the 16th century, large parts of the Qhapaq Ñan fell into disuse. The Spanish maintained only the sections that served their needs, removing enormous quantities of gold, silver, and other resources to the coast for shipment to Spain via the Inca road system.

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Today’s Inca Trail trek covers a 42-km section of the original Qhapaq Ñan, leading from Ollantaytambo to Machu Picchu. Explorandes’ version of the trek begins at Km 88 rather than the usual Km 82, setting the stage for a more private and remote hike that avoids most of the crowds. This version takes five days to complete, providing a slower pace and better acclimatization.

There is also a Short Inca Trail, a 2-day trek that allows travelers to experience highlights such as Wiñay Wayna and still arrive at Machu Picchu through the iconic Sun Gate.

Comparison: Classic vs. Short vs. Explorandes Inca Trail

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Inca Trail Elevation and Difficulty

The Inca Trail is considered a moderate trek, but altitude makes it more challenging than the distance suggests.

• Highest point: Warmiwañusca (Dead Woman’s Pass) at 4,215 m (13,828 ft).
• Daily climbs & descents: The trail involves steep ascents and thousands of Inca-carved stone steps.
• Challenging sections: The ascent to Dead Woman’s Pass and the long descent on Day 4 (over 1,100 m/3,650 ft of stone stairs).
• Tips for acclimatization: Spend 2–3 days in Cusco or the Sacred Valley before starting. Gentle hikes to nearby sites can help prepare your body.

Trekkers in good physical condition generally do well. Hikers from 8 to 78 years old have completed the trek. Fitness and proper acclimatization are more important than age.

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Inca Trail Weather: When Is the Best Time to Hike?

The Inca Trail is open year-round except inFebruary, when it closes for maintenance.

• Dry season (April–October): Best conditions, clear skies, cold nights. This is peak season, so permits sell out quickly.
• Shoulder months (April & November): Excellent choice with fewer crowds, still mostly dry.
• Rainy season (November–March): Expect frequent showers, muddy trails, and more challenging conditions.

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Inca Trail Permits and Regulations

To protect the trail and Machu Picchu, the Peruvian government limits entry to 500 permits per day (about 200 for trekkers and 300 for guides, porters, and staff).

• Permits sell out 3–6 months in advance, especially from May to August.
• Only licensed tour operators like Explorandes can secure permits.
• Booking early is essential to guarantee your spot.

The permit system began in 2000 to address overuse, crowding, and erosion. Every person on the trail, trekkers, guides, and porters, must have a valid permit.

Routes of the Inca Trail

• Classic Inca Trail (4 days/3 nights): The most famous version.
• Explorandes Inca Trail (5 days/4 nights): A unique route with private campsites, better acclimatization, and two separate visits to Machu Picchu.
• Short Inca Trail (2 days/1 night): Ideal for travelers with limited time.
• Alternative Treks: Salkantay, Lares, or Choquequirao — excellent alternatives when Inca Trail permits are sold out.

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What to Expect on the Inca Trail

Each day offers a different blend of landscapes, history, and cultural encounters:

• Day 1: Gentle start (≈10 km), time to acclimatize, and first archaeological sites.
• Day 2: The toughest day — the climb to Warmiwañusca (Dead Woman’s Pass).
• Day 3: Descend ancient staircases and explore multiple ruins.
• Day 4: Pass Wiñay Wayna, one of the most beautiful Inca sites, before the final push.
• Day 5: Arrive early at the Sun Gate and enjoy your first breathtaking view of Machu Picchu.

Expect cloud forests, high Andean passes, subtropical valleys, and encounters with local flora and fauna.

Packing List & Preparation Tips

Essential clothing:

• Waterproof jacket with hood
• 2–3 pairs of hiking pants (convertible pants are ideal)
• Moisture-wicking shirts (short and long sleeve)
• Warm layers (fleece, down jacket)
• Hat, gloves, scarf, and sun protection gear
• Sturdy, waterproof hiking boots (well broken-in)

Gear to bring:

• Daypack (20–30 L)
• Trekking poles
• Headlamp with spare batteries
• Rain cover for backpack
• Water bottle or hydration system
• Sunglasses, sunscreen, insect repellent

Operator-provided equipment: tents, sleeping mats, dining tents, meals. Sleeping bags are often available for rent.

Preparation tips for international travelers:

• From North America/Europe: allow at least 2–3 days in Cusco or the Sacred Valley to adjust to altitude.
• Bring personal medications and consider altitude sickness tablets if recommended by your doctor.
• Travel insurance that covers trekking at altitude is highly recommended.

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FAQs About the Inca Trail

How long is the Inca Trail?

The Classic route is 42 km (26 miles), usually completed in 4 days.

Is the Short Inca Trail worth it?

Yes, it’s perfect for those with limited time who still want the thrill of arriving at Machu Picchu through the Sun Gate.

Can I hike without a guide?

No. Only licensed tour operators are allowed to run Inca Trail tours.

What’s the Inca Trail elevation?

The highest point is Dead Woman’s Pass at 4,215 m (13,828 ft).

Final Thoughts & How to Book

The Inca Trail to Machu Picchu is more than just a hike — it’s a once-in-a-lifetime journey through history, culture, and the natural beauty of the Andes. With limited permits available, planning is essential.

Ready to start your adventure? Book your Inca Trail to Machu Picchu tour with Explorandes today and secure your permit before spaces run out.

Frequently Asked Questions - Inca Trail

Where is the Inca Trail?

The Inca Trail is located in southern Peru, in the Cusco region. It runs through the Andes within the Historic Sanctuary of Machu Picchu, connecting ancient Inca paths with archaeological sites before reaching Machu Picchu through the Sun Gate.

How long is the Inca Trail?

The classic Inca Trail is 42 km (26 miles) long and is usually completed in 4 days and 3 nights. There are shorter versions, such as the 1-day Inca Trail, for travelers with limited time.

Can a beginner hike the Inca Trail?

Yes. Many beginners complete the Inca Trail each year. What helps most is having a basic fitness level and arriving in Cusco with time to acclimatize. The trail has steep stone steps and altitude, but with good pacing and support from your guide team, it’s very achievable.

Can a beginner do the Inca trail?

Beginners can absolutely do it as long as they prepare a little and acclimatize properly. The experience is more about steady effort than speed.

How fit do I need to be to hike the Inca trail?

You don’t need to be an athlete, but you should be comfortable walking several hours a day. Training with hikes, stairs, or long walks helps a lot. The altitude is the main challenge, so arriving early to Cusco makes the trail much easier.

How hard is the 1-day Inca Trail hike?

The 1-day route is moderate. It includes a long climb up to Wiñay Wayna and then a gentle approach to the Sun Gate. It’s shorter than the classic 4-day trek, but still requires good stamina because the ascent is continuous.

How do you go to the bathroom on the Inca Trail?

There are designated toilets at campsites and key points along the trail. Guided groups also carry portable toilet systems to ensure hygiene and reduce environmental impact. You don’t use the outdoors; the route is regulated to protect the trail.

What is the scariest part of the Inca Trail?

Most travelers point to the steep stone steps near Dead Woman’s Pass, mainly because of the altitude. Others find the long descent from Phuyupatamarca and the stone stairways around Wiñay Wayna physically demanding. The trail is safe and well maintained, and guides set a steady, comfortable pace so everyone can complete these sections without pressure.

What is the hardest part of the Inca Trail?

The toughest section is usually the ascent to Dead Woman’s Pass (4,215 m). It’s the highest point of the trek and the section where altitude is felt the most. Once you cross it, the rest of the trail becomes more manageable.

Is the Inca Trail harder than Kilimanjaro?

They’re very different experiences. Kilimanjaro reaches almost 6,000 m, so its altitude challenge is much greater. The Inca Trail is lower and shorter, but includes steep stone steps. Most hikers find Kilimanjaro more physically demanding.