Inca Trail to Machu Picchu: A Journey Through History and Beauty

If you’re in the process of booking your trek, you can initially use your ID or driver’s license for the reservation. However, please note that this is only a temporary solution. Once you have your passport information, you will need to send it to us to finalize your booking.

In Cusco, the year is divided into two main seasons: the wet season and the dry season. The high season typically falls within the dry season, from April to October, when the weather is more favorable for outdoor activities, especially trekking. The lack of rain during these months makes it the ideal time to visit, and as a result, Cusco sees higher tourism traffic during this period.

Due to the increased demand, Inca Trail permits tend to sell out faster between April and October compared to the wet season months. If you plan to trek the Inca Trail during the high season, it’s essential to book your permits early to secure your spot.

While previous hiking experience is not mandatory for the Inca Trail, it’s important to be in good physical condition. The trek involves challenging terrain, including steep ascents, and requires strength and endurance. Our team of professional guides and porters will be there to assist you every step of the way.

To prepare, we recommend focusing on exercises that improve strength and stamina, with step climbing being one of the most effective workouts for this type of trek.

The Inca Trail trek is a multi-day adventure, requiring essential trekking gear for comfort and safety. Be sure to pack items like trekking boots, trekking pants, waterproof jackets, hats, trekking socks, walking sticks, base layers, and a trekking backpack.

For your convenience, we’ve created a detailed packing list that highlights exactly what to bring for a more comfortable and enjoyable experience on the trail.

While the Inca Trail begins just 1 hour away from Ollantaytambo, the last city in the Sacred Valley, it’s important to note that the Inca Trail itself is not considered part of the valley. As such, none of the Sacred Valley ruins are included in the trek. The journey primarily focuses on the ancient paths leading to Machu Picchu, passing through stunning landscapes and Inca ruins along the way.

The suitability of the Inca Trail for families with children or older adults depends on a case-by-case basis, taking into account the age and physical condition of the participants. While the Inca Trail is a physical challenge, it can be an incredible experience for those who are prepared.

For families with children, if the kids are accustomed to trekking or outdoor activities, they will likely enjoy the adventure and have fun. However, it’s important to ensure they are physically ready for the demands of the trail.

Similarly, for older adults, it’s crucial to consider their hiking experience and overall health before embarking on the trek. Those in good health and with prior trekking experience can enjoy the Inca Trail comfortably, while others may need to assess their readiness and physical limitations to ensure a safe and enjoyable journey.

The Inca Trail covers a total distance of 43 kilometers (26 miles), typically completed over 4 days. Each day, trekkers walk approximately 14 kilometers (8.7 miles), with the final day covering only 5 kilometers (3.1 miles) from the Sun Gate to Machu Picchu. This final stretch is a short, but rewarding, walk that leads to the breathtaking view of Machu Picchu at sunrise.

Throughout the Inca Trail, there are several bathroom stops along the way, especially at the beginning of the trek. These facilities are managed by locals, and a small fee of 1 sol grants you access. The bathrooms are typically clean, but keep in mind that they are squat toilets. Toilet paper is rarely provided, so it’s essential to bring your own. Additionally, you are not permitted to flush paper, so be sure to follow the local guidelines.

During your Inca Trail trek, all meals are prepared by our expert trekking chefs at the campsite. You’ll enjoy hot, nutritious meals designed to fuel your hike and aid recovery. Our chefs will prepare three meals daily: breakfast, lunch, and dinner, all tailored to meet your energy needs while keeping the flavors authentic.

Please note that lunch on the final day is not included. However, your guide will recommend several options based on your budget.

The weather along the Inca Trail depends on the season you visit Cusco. During the dry season (April to October), expect sunny skies and little rain, though strong sunlight due to the high altitude and low humidity, so be sure to pack sunscreen. In contrast, the wet season (November to March) brings daily rainfall, sometimes throughout the entire day, requiring waterproof gear. Temperatures can drop to 0°C (32°F), so pack warm layers for the trek.

In the morning, you’ll only need to carry enough water to last until the first lunch stop. At each meal along the Inca Trail, you’ll be provided with fresh, boiled water to refill your water bottles or hydration packs, ensuring you stay hydrated throughout the trek.

Tips for your tour guides, cooks, and porters are not included in the price of your Inca Trail tour. These are optional and are given as a gesture of appreciation for their exceptional service. While tips are not mandatory, they are a great way to show gratitude for the hard work and dedication of the staff during your trek.

During your Inca Trail trek, you will only have access to your duffel bags at breakfast and dinner while at the campsite. This is because the porters move faster than the trekking groups, ensuring that your gear is transported efficiently to each campsite.

The final day of the Inca Trail is the most thrilling part of the trek, as we reach the Sacred City of the Incas. The group will begin the day early, hiking the final two hours together. We’ll arrive at the Sun Gate of Machu Picchu at approximately 7:30 a.m., offering a breathtaking first glimpse of the iconic site.

The sunrise at Machu Picchu varies depending on the time of year. For tours from May to September, the sun rises at approximately 7:20 a.m., giving hikers the chance to witness the iconic sunrise from the Sun Gate. However, for tours from October to April, the sun rises earlier, around 5:30 or 6:00 a.m., so the group may arrive after the sun has already risen.

After completing the Inca Trail trek, hikers will take a bus to Aguas Calientes, followed by a scenic two-hour train ride through the Sacred Valley. Upon arrival at Ollantaytambo, an Alpaca Expeditions bus will be waiting to take you on a two-hour drive back to Cusco. Depending on the train schedule, the group will return to Cusco between 7:00 to 8:00 p.m., marking the end of an unforgettable adventure.

At Qoricancha Expeditions, we offer door-to-door service for all our Inca Trail trekkers. We will pick you up directly from your hotel in Cusco and drop you off at the same location after your trek. If you plan to change hotels during your journey, simply let us know, and we will ensure your pick-up and drop-off are adjusted accordingly for your convenience.

Yes, we’ve hosted many families on the Inca Trail trek, and kids often enjoy the adventure, especially if they are active and used to physical activities. We typically recommend the trek for children 8 years and older. For families with younger kids, we suggest considering the Short Inca Trail or customizing the itinerary for a more relaxed experience. Our professional guides and support staff ensure that everyone, from children to adults, can enjoy this incredible journey safely and comfortably.

All Inca Trail hikers—whether on the 4-day, 5-day, 7-day, or 2-day trek to Machu Picchu—will explore the ancient citadel via Circuit 3, as per Machu Picchu’s official regulations. This well-designed circuit covers the site’s most iconic landmarks, including the Main Plaza, Temple of the Sun, water fountains, ensuring a complete and unforgettable experience of Machu Picchu.