The journey
The Inca Trail is the most famous trek in South America, and for good reason. Over 4 days, you'll walk 43 kilometres along original Inca stone paths through cloud forest, alpine tundra, and past a series of remarkable ancient ruins before arriving at the Sun Gate (Inti Punku) for your first unforgettable view of Machu Picchu.
The trail passes through three distinct ecological zones: from the dry Andean highlands, over the highest pass at Dead Woman's Pass (4,215m), and down into the lush subtropical cloud forest that surrounds Machu Picchu. Along the way you'll visit Inca ruins that no other route to Machu Picchu can access, including Runkurakay, Sayacmarca, and Wiñay Wayna.
Permits are strictly limited to 500 people per day (including guides and porters), so this trek sells out months in advance. We recommend booking 4-6 months ahead, especially for peak season (May to September).
Trek Photos
Machu Picchu
Trail Life
On the TrailThe trail
Route overview: Km 82 to Machu Picchu via Dead Woman's Pass
The day to day
Km 82 to Wayllabamba (3,000m)
+Early morning pickup from Cusco. Drive to the trailhead at Km 82 (2,600m) along the Urubamba River. Trek through dry Andean terrain past the Inca site of Llactapata, with views of the snow-capped Veronica peak. Camp at Wayllabamba.
Wayllabamba to Pacaymayo (3,600m) via Dead Woman's Pass (4,215m)
+The toughest day. Climb steadily through cloud forest to Dead Woman's Pass, the highest point on the trail. Incredible views from the top before descending to camp at Pacaymayo. Total: ~12km, 7-8 hours.
Pacaymayo to Wiñay Wayna (2,680m)
+Two more passes and three spectacular ruins. Visit Runkurakay (circular watchtower), Sayacmarca (inaccessible town), and Phuyupatamarca (town above the clouds). Descend stone stairs through orchid-filled cloud forest to Wiñay Wayna, a beautifully restored terraced ruin. Final camp.
Sun Gate & Machu Picchu (2,430m)
+Wake at 3:30am. Trek in the dark to reach the Sun Gate (Inti Punku) at sunrise. Your first view of Machu Picchu emerging from the mist below. Descend into the citadel for a 2-hour guided tour, then bus to Aguas Calientes and train back to Cusco.
What you get
Included
- Hotel pickup and drop-off in Cusco
- All camping equipment (tents, sleeping mats)
- Three meals per day on trek (cooked by chef)
- Experienced English-speaking guide
- Porter team (you carry only a daypack)
- Inca Trail permit
- Machu Picchu entrance fee
- Guided tour of Machu Picchu
- Bus from Machu Picchu to Aguas Calientes
- Return train Aguas Calientes to Cusco
Not Included
- International flights to/from Lima or Cusco
- Travel insurance (required)
- Sleeping bag (can be rented)
- Walking poles (can be rented)
- Personal trekking gear
- Alcoholic drinks and snacks
- Tips for guide and porters
- Personal expenses