Widely considered to be the ultimate Peruvian experience, the Inca Trail rewards daring hikers with jaw-dropping scenery and a deep sense of culture and history. The trek can be demanding, and you’ll need to spend time acclimatizing, but this iconic journey through the heart of Peru’s wild mountain and valley terrain is a once-in-a-lifetime memory to keep forever.
This ancient hiking trail is the path the ancient Incas would have used to reach the citadel of Machu Picchu several centuries ago. Passing through the spectacular Andean landscapes, the route winds its way through the dramatic scenery of the Sacred Valley towards the celebrated ‘Lost City’.
Whether you choose the 4-day trek or join the trail on its final leg as it approaches Machu Picchu, tracing the path of the Incas is guaranteed to be a highlight on any Peru itinerary.
Where Does the Inca Trail Start?
When you’re planning the details of your hike, one of your first questions is likely to be: where is the Inca Trail?
Everyone setting out to tackle the Inca Trail will head to Cusco initially, as it’s the closest city to the trail. There are no direct flights from the US to Cusco, but once you get to South America, it’s only an hour and a half away from Lima by plane.
While many people just use it as a base for traveling to Machu Picchu or the Sacred Valley, we recommend setting aside some extra days to explore Cusco and see why it’s one of the most popular places to visit in Peru. Spending time in Cusco before you do the hike can also help you acclimatize to the altitude in the region and help you avoid altitude sickness during your hike.
The Inca Trail itself has two starting points: Piscacucho or Quillabamba. From here, you’ll travel through lush cloud forests, mountain valleys, and isolated Incan ruins, all showcasing the natural beauty and fascinating history of the region. From snow-capped peaks to stunning glacial lakes, the astonishing panoramas are impressive from the first day of your trek to the last.
Trekking the Inca Trail
Before you set off on your adventure, here is everything you need to know before you go:
Please note that due to government regulations, you must hike the Inca Trail with a guide. Luckily, our travel specialists can help with all the admin, helping you find a licensed operator and secure the necessary permit.
How long is the Inca Trail?
The 4-day Inca Trail is about 25 miles long, but many tours will also offer a shorter route that only involves part of the trail.
You’ve likely heard about how altitude affects how much you can exert yourself, and may be asking: how high is the Inca Trail? Elevation varies at different points along the trail and ranges from about 8,500 feet to over 13,700 feet, meaning it’s crucial to acclimatize in Cusco (about 11,150 feet) before you go.
How long does it take to hike?
Hiking the 4-day Inca Trail (25-mile) route takes four days and three nights altogether, while shorter routes can take two days and one night. How many hours you spend walking each day will depend on your fitness and the speed of the group.
How hard is the Inca Trail?
The Inca Trail is a moderately difficult hike, and we recommend being fully prepared for it in advance, especially if you’ve never done a long trek before or exercised at higher elevations. There are more difficult sections across the trail that are particularly mountainous or high, such as the infamous Dead Woman’s Pass, which may test you physically.
While people of all ages tackle the trail, it’s important to be mindful that this trip also involves camping, and there are limited toilet facilities along the route, so the hike may not be suitable for young children or older family members.
What route does the trail take?
The Inca Trail follows different routes with a variety of camping locations and pit stops along the way. While there’s one main trail, the hiking itinerary may vary from group to group, especially when it comes to campsites.
We’ve put together an example of what the four-day route might look like:
