TREK · Peru
Inca Trail to Machu Picchu
Camino Inca
Cusco, Andes · Peru Multi-day
Photo: source
Information
- Distance
- 43.0 km
- Duration
- 4 days
- Max elevation
- 4,215 m
- Country
- Peru (PE)
- Difficulty
- Moderate to strenuous (altitude; stone steps)
- Best Season
- May–September (closed in February)
- Permits & Fees
- Permit + licensed operator required; the daily quota is limited and often sells out months in advance
Description
The Inca Trail (Camino Inca) is a historic 4-day, ~43 km trek to Machu Picchu in the Peruvian Andes. The ancient Inca stone path climbs from km 82 over its high point, Dead Woman's Pass (4,215 m), past ruins such as Wiñay Wayna, before reaching Machu Picchu through the Sun Gate (Inti Punku) at sunrise. To protect the World Heritage site, the trek requires a licensed operator with a strict daily quota that often sells out months ahead. It is the only way to arrive at Machu Picchu on foot from above.
Trail Highlights
Starting at km 82, crossing Dead Woman's Pass (4,215 m), Inca ruins (Wiñay Wayna, Phuyupatamarca), and entering Machu Picchu through the Sun Gate (Inti Punku) at dawn.
Trekking Experiences
Real stories & vlogs from people who did the trek. Click to explore.
References
The summary above was compiled from the following sources.