The Ultimate Inca Trail Guide: Everything You Need to Know
If you’re looking for an adventure, look no further than the Inca Trail. This ancient trail leads to Machu Picchu, one of the most beautiful and mysterious sites in the world. But before you can hike the Inca Trail, you need to know a few things about it. In this guide, we will provide everything you need to know about the Inca Trail, from how to get there to what to pack!
Inca Trail Trek - Guide
What are the Inca Trail route options?
The Inca Trail is a 40-mile trek through the Andes Mountains from Cusco to Machu Picchu. There are several different routes you can take, depending on your experience level and the time you have available. The most popular route is the Classic Inca Trail, which takes four days to complete and passes many of the most important Inca ruins along the way. Other routes include the Short Inca Trail (2 days) and Salkantay Trek (5-7 days).
Four are three main Inca Trail routes:
- 4-day Inca Trail
- 5-day Inca Trail
- 2-day Inca Trail
- Salkantay Trek+ Classic Inca Trail
Inca Trail 4 Days
The Classic Inca Trail is the most popular route and takes four days to complete. The 4 day Inca Trail trek begins in km 82, passing through many ancient ruins, including Llactapata, Runkuracay and Sayacmarca. On the fourth day, you will reach Machu Picchu—an unforgettable experience!
2-Day Short Inca Trail - 2D/1N
If you don’t have four days to spare, the two-day Inca Trail is a great option. This route will take you from Cusco to Km104 and then to Machu Picchu. The trek includes spectacular views of the Andes Mountains as well as several important archaeological sites, including Runkuracay and Sayacmarca.
This is a single day of walking with a stay-over in Aguas Calientes. For this reason, some tour operators refer to this route as the 1-day Inca Trail.
5-Day Inca Trail - 5D/4N
The five-day Inca Trail trek is the longest option and takes you through the most remote regions of the Andes. This route takes you past several important archaeological sites, including Llactapata, Phuyupatamarca, and Winaywayna. On the fifth day, you will reach Machu Picchu—an unforgettable experience!
7 Day Inca Trail + Salkantay Trek
This seven-day trek combines the Classic Inca Trail with the Salkantay Trek and gives you an even more comprehensive experience. This route takes you through a stunning variety of landscapes, including snow-capped mountains and lush cloud forests. You’ll visit several important Inca ruins along the way, including Llactapata, Runkuracay, Sayacmarca, Wiñaywayna, and Machu Picchu.
How Long Is The Inca Trail?
The length of the Inca Trail depends on which route you take. The Classic Inca Trail is a four-day trek is 26miles / 43km long, while the Short Inca Trail is two days is 7.5 miles – 12km long.
How Hard Is The Inca Trail?
The Inca Trail is considered to be moderately moderate to difficult. The altitude and the terrain can make it challenging, but with proper preparation you should be able to complete it without any major issues. It’s important to set aside enough time for acclimating to the high altitudes before beginning your trek.
Check out this article for Training for the Inca Trail
How Much Does The Inca Trail Cost?
The cost of the Inca Trail depends on which route you take and how many people are in your group. Generally speaking, the Classic Inca Trail is more expensive than the Short Inca Trail, and both require you to purchase permits in advance. The Salkantay Trek is usually less expensive, but it still requires a permit as well.
- Local Operators: $600-$800 per person
- International Trek Operators: $1000-2000 per person
- Luxury Tours: $2000-$3500 per person
When Is The Best Time To Hike The Inca Trail?
The best time to hike the Inca Trail is from April to October. This is when the weather is most favorable and there are fewer restrictions on permits. It’s important to note that you’ll need to book your permit at least four months in advance, so plan accordingly!
Are you looking to hike the Inca Trail during out-of-season months? Read our best time to hike the Inca Trail article.
What Are The Logistics For Hiking The Inca Trail?
When planning your Inca Trail trek, you’ll need to consider several logistics. You’ll need to book a permit in advance, arrange for transportation to and from Cusco, hire a guide or porter service, and pack the necessary gear. Make sure you have all the necessary information before you set out on your adventure!
You Need A Permit For The Inca Trail
If you plan on hiking the Inca Trail, you’ll need to purchase a permit in advance. Permits are limited to 500 people per day, and they must be booked at least four months in advance. You can purchase your permit online or through a travel agency.
Note: the Inca Trail permits often sell out up to a year ahead for the popular months (May-June-july-August). so you need to book well in advance!
You Need A Registered Guide To Hike The Inca Trail
You must have a registered guide with you when hiking the Inca Trail, and they are required to carry your permit with them at all times. Guides can be hired through travel agencies or directly from local companies. They are experts in the area and provide invaluable assistance on your journey.
This means you’ll need to go through an operator to purchase your permit.
You Cannot Purchase Last-Minute Inca Trail Tickets
It is not possible to purchase Inca Trail tickets last minute, as they must be purchased in advance. As previously mentioned, permits are limited to 500 people per day and must be booked at least four months ahead of time. Make sure you plan your trip accordingly!
Do I Need To Train For The Inca Trail?
Yes, it is important to train for the Inca Trail. The altitude and terrain can be challenging, so you’ll want to make sure your body is in peak physical condition before you set out. Depending on the length of your trek, you should dedicate at least a few weeks to acclimating and preparing yourself for the journey ahead.
Following a 1-2 month Inca Trail training program will help you cope better with ascents and high altitudes.