The Classic Inca Trail is Peru’s most legendary trek, a four-day pilgrimage that follows the ancient highway used by the Incas to reach their royal city of Machu Picchu. Today, only a limited number of visitors can follow this route each day, preserving its sense of mystery and protecting fragile highland ecosystems. The trail winds through cloud forests, alpine tundra and subtropical jungle, offering hikers a constantly changing palette of scenery and introducing them to the network of stone stairways, terraces and ceremonial sites built more than 500 years ago.

Route & Itinerary

The trek covers about 42 km (26 mi) and normally takes four days. After starting near the town of Ollantaytambo, you gradually ascend through the Sacred Valley. Day 1 is a gentle warm-up to the village of Wayllabamba. Day 2 is the most demanding because it climbs steeply to Dead Woman’s Pass at 4,215 m, the highest point on the Inca Trail. Day 3 traverses smaller passes and weaves past ruins like Runkurakay, Sayacmarca and Phuyupatamarca before descending to the lush camp near Wiñay Wayna. Day 4 begins predawn so you can reach Inti Punku (the Sun Gate) at sunrise and witness Machu Picchu emerge from the mist. Permits for this trek sell out months in advance and must be booked through an authorised operator.

Highlights

  • Ancient stone staircases and tunnels that have survived for centuries.
  • High-altitude passes offering panoramic views of snow-capped peaks and the Urubamba River.
  • Several restored Inca sites, including Llactapata, Runkurakay and the terraced wonder Wiñay Wayna.
  • Entering Machu Picchu through the Sun Gate at dawn for a first glimpse of the citadel.

Difficulty & Preparation

Despite being one of the shorter Peruvian treks, the Inca Trail is physically challenging. Altitudes range between 1,000 m (3,280 ft) and 4,215 m (13,828 ft), and the path involves thousands of stone steps that can be hard on knees and ankles. Training hikes and cardiovascular exercise will help you tackle the long ascents. Because the trail reaches high elevations quickly, spend a few days acclimatizing in Cusco before starting.

Altitude & Permit Warning

Book your permit several months ahead—only about 500 trekkers (including guides and porters) are allowed on the trail each day. Acclimatize in Cusco and consider taking medication for altitude sickness. Drink plenty of water and pace yourself during the climb to Dead Woman’s Pass.

Best Time to Trek

The dry season between May and September offers the clearest skies and firmest trail conditions. The nights are cold at high camps, so bring layers. The rainy season (November – March) sees frequent downpours and slippery stone paths, and the trail is closed for maintenance each February. Shoulder months like April and October combine fewer crowds with moderate weather.

Planning Tips

Pack light but be prepared for varied weather: sun protection for exposed passes, a warm jacket for chilly evenings and a waterproof layer for sudden showers. Most agencies provide tents, food and a duffel bag carried by porters—save your energy by carrying only a day pack. Trekking poles are invaluable for the long descents. Finally, respect the Pachamama (Mother Earth) by sticking to the path and taking all rubbish out with you.