The Inca Trail to Machu Picchu is the best-known trek in South America and one of the world’s classic high-altitude walking routes. In approximately 43 kilometres the trail passes through a remarkable variety of landscapes including Andean mountain scenery, cloud forest, subtropical vegetation and a series of important Inca archaeological sites connected by original stone pathways.
The route forms part of the wider Inca road system constructed during the 15th century and remains closely associated with Machu Picchu, the former royal estate of the Inca Empire hidden high in the mountains above the Urubamba Valley. Along the trail are several significant Inca sites including Llactapata, Runkurakay, Sayacmarca, Phuyupatamarca and Wiñay Wayna, many of which are inaccessible except on foot.
Incatrailperu.com is an independent guide to the Classic 4 Day Inca Trail and related trekking routes to Machu Picchu. The website focuses primarily on the traditional route beginning at Kilometer 82 near Ollantaytambo and finishing at Machu Picchu through Inti Punku, commonly known as the Sun Gate. We have also included information on the Short 2 Day Inca Trail and alternative treks within the Cusco region.
The aim of this guide is to provide clear and practical information for travellers planning the trek. Sections cover route options, permits, availability, trekking difficulty, altitude, weather conditions, itinerary planning, packing advice and guidance on choosing a suitable operator. The Inca Trail remains a physically demanding but highly rewarding trek and, with proper preparation, continues to be one of the most memorable trekking experiences in Peru.
Introduction to the Inca Trail
The Inca Trail is a high-altitude trekking route through the Peruvian Andes that follows sections of the original Inca road network towards Machu Picchu. Combining mountain scenery, cloud forest and important archaeological sites, the trail has become one of the world’s best-known multi-day treks. Read more
Route Options
- Classic 4 day Inca Trail – Traditional multi-day trek through mountain passes, cloud forest and major Inca archaeological sites.
- Short 2 day Inca Trail – Shorter route to Machu Picchu suitable for travellers with limited time or lower fitness levels.
Inca Trail Map
Planning the Trek
Practical information about permits, availability, booking procedures, trekking difficulty, altitude, seasonal weather conditions and preparation for the Inca Trail.
- Permits
- Availability
- How to Book
- Cost
- Companies
- Difficulty
- Altitude
- Best Time to Go
- Packing List
Inca Trail 4 day Trek Itinerary
- Day 1
- Day 2
- Day 3
- Day 4
Responsible Trekking
- Regulations and Ethics
Alternative Treks to Machu Picchu
- Salkantay Trek
- Lares Trek
Machu Picchu
Information about visiting Machu Picchu including ticket options, circuit routes and practical visitor information for the archaeological site.
- Machu Picchu Guide
- Tickets
- Circuits
Inca Trail FAQs
Planning the Inca Trail often involves questions about permits, altitude, fitness, weather conditions, camping arrangements and transport logistics. Our FAQ section answers many of the most common questions about preparing for and hiking the trail to Machu Picchu.