Hiking the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu: The Complete Guide

The Inca Trail is the only way to reach Machu Picchu on foot along an original Inca path and enter the citadel through the Sun Gate. Our guides have walked it hundreds of times – here is what you should know before you go.

Which Inca Trail is right for you?

• Classic Inca Trail (4 days, about 42 km / 26 mi): Starts at Km 82, crosses Dead Woman's Pass at 4,215 m / 13,828 ft and passes Runkurakay, Sayacmarca, Phuyupatamarka and Wiñay Wayna before you reach the Sun Gate at sunrise on day 4.
• Classic Inca Trail in 5 days: The same route at a relaxed pace, with quieter campsites and two visits to Machu Picchu.
• Short Inca Trail (1 or 2 days, about 13–14 km / 8–9 mi): Starts at Km 104, climbs to the terraces of Wiñay Wayna and reaches the Sun Gate in the afternoon. Ideal if you are short on time or prefer a lighter hike.
• Combinations: The trail can be combined with the Sacred Valley, the Lares trek or the Salkantay pass for a longer adventure.

How hard is it?

The Classic Inca Trail is a moderate to challenging trek. Days 2 and 3 are the hardest, with long stone staircases up and down. You do not need mountaineering experience, but you should be able to hike 6–8 hours a day. The Short Inca Trail is suitable for anyone with a basic level of fitness.

Altitude is the bigger challenge than distance. Plan at least two days in Cusco (3,400 m / 11,155 ft) or the Sacred Valley before you start, drink plenty of water and take it slowly.

Best time to hike

The dry season from May to September brings clear skies and cold nights – and the highest demand for permits. April, October and November are greener and a little quieter. From December to March it rains more often. The Inca Trail is closed every February for maintenance; Machu Picchu itself stays open.

Permits: book early

Only a limited number of permits is issued per day, and only licensed operators like Incatrekkers can buy them. Permits are personal and tied to your passport. For May to September, they often sell out months in advance – read our guide to Inca Trail permits.

What to bring

A small daypack, broken-in hiking boots, rain gear, warm layers for the nights, sun protection, a headlamp, a reusable water bottle and your original passport. On the multi-day treks, porters carry tents, food and kitchen equipment; you can hire a personal porter for your own gear. You will find our full packing list in the travel information.

Why hike with a local team?

All Incatrekkers guides, cooks and porters come from the Cusco region. We pay fair wages, respect porter weight limits and share our culture along the way. Explore our Inca Trail treks or send us an inquiry – we check permit availability for your dates right away.