Peru · Cloud forest & Inca ruins
The Inca Trail
Ancient stone paths to Machu Picchu
Distance
~43 km
Duration
4 days / 3 nights
Max elevation
4,215 m (Dead Woman's Pass)
Difficulty
Moderate–hard · high passes
The world's most storied trek follows original Inca stone paths over high Andean passes, through cloud forest and past ruined citadels, to arrive at the Sun Gate above Machu Picchu at dawn. History and mountain grandeur combine on a classic four-day journey.
Along the trailStops
Km 82 (Piscacucho)
The checkpoint on the Urubamba River where the trail officially begins.
Dead Woman's Pass
The trek's highest and hardest point at 4,215m, with sweeping views back down the valley.
Sayacmarca
A cliff-perched ruin reached by a steep stone stairway in the cloud forest.
Wiñay Wayna
A stunning terraced ruin near the final campsite, its name meaning "forever young".
Sun Gate & Machu Picchu
The trail's climax — arriving through Inti Punku for the first sunrise view of Machu Picchu.
Good to knowTips
- Permits are strictly limited and sell out months ahead — book with a licensed operator early.
- The trail closes every February for maintenance; plan around it.
- Acclimatize in Cusco for a couple of days before starting to handle the altitude.
Getting thereLogistics
All trekkers must go with a licensed operator who arranges permits, guides, porters and camping. Trains and buses connect Cusco, Ollantaytambo and Aguas Calientes for the return.
Next hike
Tour du Mont Blanc