The Ultimate Guide to Trekking the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu

This page is the ultimate guide to trekking the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu. We have added all the critically important pages and information you need to know before arriving in Peru. Whether you’re wondering what permits you need, what to pack, how difficult the trek really is, or how to get the best experience at Machu Picchu, you’ll find it all right here — written by people who have been leading this trail for decades.

There are very few adventures on Earth that still feel like a true journey — one that begins long before you ever see the destination. Trekking the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu is one of them. Over four unforgettable days you follow an ancient stone path through the Andes, cross high mountain passes, explore hidden Inca ruins, and hike through misty cloud forest toward one of the most extraordinary places on the planet. Want to join one of our upcoming trips?

What Is the Inca Trail?

First things first, what exactly is the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu? Otherwise known as Camino Inca, Inca Trail is a hiking trail in Peru that terminates at the city of Machu Picchu, the famous capital of the Inca Empire.

What is so special about it? Well, first, the history. Inca Trail used to be a key trade route of the Inca Empire, with the original trail spreading across 25,000 miles (now it’s 25 miles). Some also believe that the Inca Trail used to serve as an annual pilgrim route, connecting the capital with Lake Titicaca, the place of Inti’s, the Incan God of Sun, birth.

Secondly, the experience. The Inca Trail meanders through the Andes, leading hikers through lush forests alive with birds, centuries-old Inca ruins, and rivers crossed via wooden bridges while surrounded by the Andes mountain peaks. The Inca Trail experience truly is one of a kind.

And last but not least, the primary reason for people hiking the Inca Trail lies at its very end – the magnificent city of Machu Picchu. Or, to be more precise, passing the Sun Gate to see one of the new seven wonders of the world at sunset, Machu Picchu, bathed in sunlight. It’s not a view you forget.

After that marvelous crescendo, Inca Trail hikers step into a moment they will remember forever—standing in awe of Machu Picchu. Just before 5pm is one of the most magical times to be there, when the crowds begin to fade, the light softens, and the sanctuary seems to breathe. In that hush of late afternoon, you can truly feel the reverence of this Wonder of the World.

While the Inca Trail is not the only route to reach Machu Picchu (and not the easiest), it’s the most exciting and rewarding path, not just in Peru but the entire of South America.

Most People Trek the Inca Trail Wrong — Here’s Why

The majority of trekkers choose the “standard” Inca Trail itinerary where they wake up around 3am on Day 4, queue in the dark at the final checkpoint, and rush to the Sun Gate for the first glimpse of Machu Picchu. On paper it sounds iconic. In reality, it often looks like this:

• long lines before sunrise
• thick mist blocking views
• a crowded Machu Picchu entrance by 6am
• a “race” instead of a sacred arrival
• little time to absorb the final day of the Trail

This is exactly why so many people finish the Inca Trail and feel like they’ve ticked a box rather than lived the dream. From 20 years of experience trekking the Inca Trail I can tell you the classic Inca Trail itinerary is hands down the best way to trek the famous trail into Machu Picchu.

Quick Answer: The Best Way to Trek the Inca Trail

The best way to trek the Inca Trail is the Classic itinerary that brings you into Machu Picchu late in the afternoon on Day 4. This avoids the 3 a.m. wake-up, the sunrise bottleneck, and the crowded early morning rush — and instead gives you a calm, emotional arrival when the light is softer and the crowds begin to fade.

Inca Trail at a Glance

• Distance: ~42 km / 26 miles (Classic 4-day route)
• Highest point: Dead Woman’s Pass — 4,215m / 13,828ft
• Difficulty: Moderate to challenging (steep steps + altitude + multi-day hiking)
• Permits: 500/day total (includes guides + porters + cooks)
• Best months: May to September (dry season)
• Closed: February (annual maintenance)
• Guided only: Must be booked through a licensed tour operator

Why Arriving at Machu Picchu in the Afternoon is the Best Way

The late-afternoon arrival gives you what early-morning entries often can’t:

1) Better light for photos

The most famous Machu Picchu photos are made in softer light. Early mornings often bring cloud and heavy mist, while afternoons are frequently clearer and warmer. You get a more dramatic view of the stonework and terraces.

2) Fewer Crowds

By the afternoon, many visitors who entered early are already leaving. This creates a completely different energy — quieter, calmer, and far more immersive.

3) A More Meaningful Emotional Moment

Instead of rushing from checkpoint to Sun Gate to entry line, you enter Machu Picchu like a pilgrim, not a competitor.

4) The Sun Gate (Inti Punku) feels sacred again

When you’re not caught in a crowd surge, you can pause — and actually feel what it meant to approach the citadel the way the Incas did.

The Inca Trail Experience Most People Never Get”

(This section will help you rank for long-tail queries like best Inca trail itinerary, best way to trek Inca trail, avoid crowds machu picchu.)

The Inca Trail Experience Most People Never Get

Most itineraries treat Day 4 as a rushed finale most to cut costs and not really trying to offer a lifechanging experience. But the classic approach transforms it into a climax. Picture this: You’ve trekked through the Andes, crossed high passes, explored ancient ruins, and watched the landscape shift from alpine to cloud forest.

Then — after days of earning every step — you hike through the Sun Gate and see Machu Picchu appear below, bathed in late-afternoon light. It doesn’t feel like tourism. It feels like discovery. That moment alone is why the Inca Trail is not “just a trek.” It is one of the world’s great journeys — if it’s done properly.

Classic Inca Trail vs Standard Inca Trail — what’s the difference?

The main difference is where you camp and how and when you enter Machu Picchu. The Classic Inca Trail is designed for a calmer, more meaningful arrival — while the standard itinerary often turns every day into a rushed, crowded sprint.

Classic Inca Trail (best experience)

• Arrive at Machu Picchu late afternoon on Day 4
• Avoid the 3–4 a.m. checkpoint queue and sunrise bottleneck
• More time on the trail and time to explore all the sights
• Enjoy fewer crowds, better photo light, and a more relaxed pace
• Experience Machu Picchu as a true arrival, not a race

Standard 4-day itinerary (most common)

• Wake up extremely early (often around 3am)
• Move quickly through the trail
• Queue in the dark at the final checkpoint
• Rush to the Sun Gate with large crowds
• Enter Machu Picchu at its busiest time of day
• Many mornings are misty, often hiding the famous views

Bottom line: If you want the Inca Trail to feel like a once-in-a-lifetime journey — not a crowded early-morning rush — the Classic itinerary offers this late-afternoon arrival is the superior experience. You can also stay in Aguas Calientes, which is an experience in itself. The following day you get to return to Machu Picchu tour at city and have the chance to hike the unique and amazing Huayna Picchu peak.

Who the Inca Trail Is For (and Who It Isn’t)

The Inca Trail is best for travelers who want a historic trek on authentic Inca paths, access to exclusive ruins, and the iconic Sun Gate entry into Machu Picchu — but it’s not ideal for those who want independent travel, luxury lodging every night, or a low-effort walk.

The Inca Trail to Machu Picchu is not just a trek — it’s one of the world’s great historic journeys. But it isn’t the right choice for everyone. This section will help you decide quickly whether the Inca Trail fits your goals, fitness level, and travel style.

Who should trek the Inca Trail?

The Inca Trail is ideal for people who want more than a hike — people who want a historic pilgrimage where the journey is just as powerful as the destination.

You should trek the Inca Trail if you want:

1) The most iconic way to reach Machu Picchu

The Inca Trail is the only trek that leads directly into Machu Picchu on foot through the Sun Gate (Inti Punku) — the legendary original entrance to the citadel. This is what makes it the ultimate experience for most travelers.

2) Authentic Inca stone paths

Unlike many other routes, the Inca Trail follows preserved stone steps and ancient engineering built by the Inca civilization. You’re not simply hiking in Peru — you’re walking on history.

3) Archaeological sites you can’t access any other way

One of the most overlooked facts is this: the Inca Trail gives you access to significant Inca ruins that cannot be visited independently, including incredible sites like Wiñay Wayna. That means the trail itself becomes an archaeological journey — not just a route to Machu Picchu.

4) A stunning variety of landscapes

The trail crosses high mountain passes, cloud forest, and subtropical valleys — giving you an ever-changing experience of Peru’s ecosystems. It’s one of the rare treks in the world where you can see such dramatic terrain shifts in just a few days.

5) A complete “adventure journey” — not just a day trip

The Inca Trail has something many people don’t realize until they experience it: by Day 2 or 3, you stop thinking about your phone or your schedule — and you become fully present. It’s physical, immersive, and deeply rewarding.

6) You value meaning, story, and experience

If you want your visit to Machu Picchu to feel earned — not rushed — the Inca Trail is the ultimate way to arrive. The best Inca Trail itineraries create a sense of build-up and climax, leading you into Machu Picchu as the final reward.

The Inca Trail is perfect for you if…

• you want the classic, iconic Machu Picchu experience
• Love history and ancient civilizations
• Enjoy hiking and being outdoors for multiple days
• Want a trek with powerful story + meaning
• Are comfortable with a physical challenge
• Want to enter Machu Picchu via the Sun Gate
• Prefer a guided experience with strong logistics and support

Who should NOT trek the Inca Trail?

The Inca Trail is incredible — but it’s not designed for everyone. You may want to choose an alternative if your expectations don’t match the reality of the trail.

You should NOT trek the Inca Trail if you’re looking for:

1) Complete independence

The Inca Trail is a regulated trail and must be done with a licensed operator. You cannot trek it independently, and permits are required.

2) Luxury accommodation every night

This is a camping trek. Some operators provide higher-end services and excellent comfort, but it’s still sleeping in a tent. If you want boutique hotels and private rooms every night, you’ll be happier doing a different route or visiting Machu Picchu by train.

3) A low-effort walk

The Inca Trail is not “extreme,” but it is physically demanding in places. There are long hiking days, steep stone staircases up and down and altitude factors that matter. If you want a gentle stroll, this is not the right trek.

4) A flexible last-minute plan

Permits sell out months in advance, and the logistics are tightly controlled. If you’re traveling with no set dates or want maximum flexibility, the Inca Trail may not fit.

5) You don’t want camping

This is simple but important. If you dislike sleeping outdoors, changing in a tent, or dealing with mountain weather, you’ll likely enjoy Machu Picchu more via a comfortable alternative.

The Inca Trail may NOT be for you if…

The Inca Trail may not be the best fit if you:

• Want luxury hotels every night
• Want to travel independently without guides
• Don’t want to camp
• Want a very easy, low-effort experience
• Need full flexibility with dates
• Prefer shorter hikes or day tours only

If the Inca Trail isn’t right for you, here are the best alternatives

If you love Machu Picchu but the Inca Trail isn’t a good fit, you still have incredible options. I highly recommend our shorter hiking itinerary that spends every night in a hotel. Contact us and we are happy to share further information.

Train to Machu Picchu (best comfort option)

Ideal for those who want the destination without the trek.

Choquequirao Trek (best alternative adventure trek)

More remote, very dramatic scenery, less regulation — but it does NOT enter Machu Picchu via the Sun Gate.

Lares Trek (best cultural immersion)

Great for travelers who want Andean villages and cultural connection.

Important: None of these alternatives replicate the full historic experience of the Inca Trail — especially the Sun Gate arrival — but they may better match your travel style.

High Quality Inca Trail Treks

If you’re here, it means you have signed up or thinking of signing up for an Inca Trail trek to Machu Picchu. You are about to embark what could potentially become the greatest adventure of your lifetime! If not check out our upcoming trips.

Everything You Need to Know About Trekking the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu

How difficult is the Inca Trail?

The Inca Trail is challenging, with steep stone steps, long hiking days, and one high pass. It’s not technical, but it requires preparation and endurance. The type of training is critical to you can move effectively through the trail. Here is information on training and what I wish I knew the first time I did this trek.

Do you need a permit for the Inca Trail?

Yes — and you cannot hike independently. Here is some need to know information on Inca trail permits. Permits are limited and must be obtained through an authorized operator. Technically there are 500 permits per day which included guide and porters so there are around 170-200 available per day. This is great for the overall experience when you are there, but you need to plan way in advance.

When should I book the Inca Trail?

For peak months (May–September), book 6 to 8 months in advance, and often earlier for preferred dates. Permit open up for sale in October each year and this is the best time to secure your permit for the following year. It’s not only the permit, we need to secure your train ticket, pay for hotels in Aguas Calientes, Ollantaytambo and Cusco. Book early!

What is the best month to trek the Inca Trail?

If you are are planning a trek to Machu Picchu we recommend the dry season, roughly March–November. The most popular months are May through September. June is festival time in Cusco which is a busy but unique time to be in Cusco. A lot of people opt for the shoulder months, as they can offer fewer crowds and good conditions.

Is the Inca Trail open year-round?

It typically closes for maintenance in February each year (common practice), then reopens afterward depending on conditions. You can purchase a ticket here, if you are signed up to a trek this will all be managed for you.

Is the 4-day or 5-day Inca Trail better?

The 4-day Inca Trail gets you there — but the classic longer version lets you feel it.

If you want the best Inca Trail experience, the longer classic version is far superior. It gives you the best campsites, a more relaxed pace, and the time to fully absorb the ruins and landscapes — rather than rushing through them. Most importantly, it allows you to arrive at Machu Picchu in a way that feels earned and unforgettable, not chaotic and crowded.

The truth is simple: the Inca Trail isn’t something you want to “get through.” It’s something you want to experience.

Over five days, you have time to settle into the rhythm of the Andes — to hike through breathtaking mountain terrain, explore extraordinary Inca sites hidden in the cloud forest, and connect with the story of the trail. You’ll feel the culture in every village, every meal shared, every conversation around camp — and by the time Machu Picchu appears, it doesn’t feel like a tourist attraction… it feels like the reward at the end of a sacred journey.

This region of Peru is truly sensational, and when you trek it properly, you don’t just see Machu Picchu — you live the story that leads to it.

Read Some Reviews

Don’t trust us? Read some REVIEWS from our trips.

Over the past fifteen years of running Inca Trail tours, we have compiled a list of everything you need to know about the trek. This information is to help you discover everything you need to know about hiking the Inca Trail, including how to prepare and what to expect from the trip.

We run over 15 trips a year on the Inca Trail, following a number of routes and options. GET IN TOUCH today for more information, and sign up to one of our unique itineraries!

Inca Trail at a Glance

• Trek length: Classic 4-day is ~26 miles / 42 km
• Highest point: Dead Woman’s Pass — 4,215m / 13,828ft
• Difficulty: Moderate to challenging (multi-day trek with steep steps + altitude)
• Permit limit: 500 per day (includes guides + porters + cooks)
• Best months: May to September (dry season)
• Closed month: February (annual maintenance)
• Guided only: Must be booked through a licensed tour operator

How Many Days Does the Classic Inca Trail Trek Take?

After each time we get to trek the Inca trail to Machu Picchu, we start planning the next trip! No matter how many times we have been on this wonderful trek, we are still stunned and in awe of the Incan People.

In total, we run 15 treks to Machu Picchu each year. Our favorite and most popular Inca Trail tours to Machu Picchu include a 5-day Classic Inca Trail route, a 4-day trip, and a 6-day trek. We also run a number of side trips to Rainbow mountain, Ausangate, the Amazon region of Peru, and the Lares region of Peru.

Our Most Popular Tour – 5-Day Classic Inca Trail Hike

The 5-day Classic Inca trek gives the visitor plenty of time to explore the ancient ruins and spectacular mountain scenery without having to rush. For many, this is a once-in-a-lifetime experience, so having the time to fully appreciate the beauty and spiritual connection of this remote region makes for an unforgettable trip.

This is one of the most popular adventure treks to Machu Picchu, as it takes you through some stunning mountain scenery and up and over three passes; the Dead Woman’s pass, the Abra Runkurakay pass, and the Abra Phuyupatamarca pass.

Along the way, you will pass many ancient Inca sites such as Sayaqmarka, Intipata, and Winay Wayna, as well as no end of stunning natural beauty spots. And not only will you experience the remarkable beauty of Phyupatamarca, but you’ll also be resting your head in the best campsite on the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu.

This classic trek generously includes two visits to the breathtaking Machu Picchu, one straight after reaching the renowned sun gate, Inti Punku, and the second, a day after, this time taken by bus after spending a night at the hotel. Fully rested, you can spend a day exploring the ruins with our guided tour and enjoy its majestic beauty at your leisure. ‘With new restrictions we can only spend 2 hours exploring Machu Picchu before returning to Cusco city after lunch’

Other Notable Inca Trail Tours

• 4-day Traditional Inca Trail Hike Our Classic Inca Trail trek is a 4-day trip that covers 33.7 miles, starting at Cusco. It crosses over 3 passes, including the famous Dead Woman’s pass, the highest point when hiking the Inca Trail (4,215 meters).
• The trip finishes by reaching the Sun Gate and exploring Machu Picchu. Additionally, those who want can climb Huayna Picchu and enjoy the stunning views. After exploring Machu Picchu, we take a bus to Aguas Calientes, from which we return to Cusco.
• Salkantay 6-day Inca Trail Trek Our 6-day Inca Trail Salkantay trek is the perfect option for hikers searching for a more adventurous and challenging journey through the Peruvian Andes.
• This trek includes passing through the Incachiriasca Pass, which is the highest point of the trek at 4,850 meters. From there, the road connects with the Classic Inca Trail, leading all the way to the Sun Gate and the lost city of Machu Picchu.

How Challenging Is the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu?

Trekking the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu isn’t the most difficult trek in the world, but it is still a serious multi-day hike that requires preparation. Expect long hiking days, steep ascents over high mountain passes, and thousands of stone steps — many of them uneven and relentless. Altitude also plays a major role, especially on Day 2 when most trekkers reach the highest point of the trail.

The good news is that you don’t need to be an elite athlete to complete the Inca Trail — but you do need to arrive with a solid base of fitness and a mindset that you’re taking on a real adventure. With the right training and pacing, the challenge becomes part of what makes the journey so rewarding. We’ll cover exactly how to prepare below.

Preparing for Your Inca Trail Hike

If you think you can arrive in Peru and hike the Inca Trail in old boots with no training, think again. While the Inca Trail isn’t technical mountaineering, it is a serious multi-day trek that challenges your fitness, your legs, and your ability to perform at altitude.

1) Train for a long, multi-day trek

The Classic Inca Trail is roughly 26 miles (42 km) completed over several days on steep terrain. You will hike over high mountain passes, climb thousands of uneven stone steps, and spend hours on your feet every day. Training beforehand helps you recover faster overnight, prevent injury, and actually enjoy the trail rather than simply endure it.

For a full breakdown of how to train, see our advice: Training for the Inca Trail Trek

2) Prepare for altitude — it affects everyone

Altitude is one of the biggest reasons the Inca Trail feels harder than expected. The highest point on the trail, Dead Woman’s Pass (4,215 meters / 13,828 feet), has far less oxygen than most people are used to. Even very fit hikers can struggle if they arrive without acclimatizing properly.

The best way to handle altitude is a combination of:

• arriving in Cusco early for acclimatization
• pacing properly (slow and steady wins here)
• staying hydrated (sip water)
• training your cardio fitness before you arrive

3) Most people train for the uphill… but it’s the downhill that breaks you

Here is the biggest mistake we see: people train hard for climbs — but they don’t train for the steep stone stair descents.

On the Inca Trail, the downhill sections are often tougher on your body than the uphill, especially after the major passes. The trail includes long, steep descents on uneven stone steps where your quadriceps and knees absorb impact with every step (known as eccentric loading). This is the reason many trekkers finish Day 2 or Day 3 with sore knees, destroyed legs, and feet full of blisters.

How to prepare for steep stair descents (specific training that works)

To protect your knees and legs, your training should include:

• Step downs (one of the best exercises for downhill hiking)
• slow lunges and squats with a controlled 2–4 second descent
• downhill hiking practice whenever possible
• stair repeats (especially going down, not just up)
• balance and stability work (ankles, hips, knees working together)
• core strength to stabilize your movement on uneven steps

This is explained in detail here: How Do You Train for Hiking Downhill?

Use trekking poles properly (huge difference)

Trekking poles reduce impact on the knees, improve balance on steep steps, and help prevent slips — especially when fatigue sets in. Poles can be a game-changer on the Inca Trail’s long descents.

4) Equipment matters more than you think

Finally, your gear can make or break your trek. Proper footwear with good grip, broken-in hiking boots, quality socks, layered clothing, and a correctly fitted daypack make a huge difference — especially on the steep steps and in changing mountain weather.

Preparation is not just about getting to Machu Picchu — it’s about arriving strong, comfortable, and able to enjoy the journey. 

Pick the Right Itinerary to Match Your Ability

Firstly, you need to do is pick the right itinerary. There is no one size fits all solution. The trail can be challenging, and therefore, you should consider adding more days in Cusco and on the trail. Do not underestimate the lack of oxygen.

Therefore, you need to make sure you pick the proper acclimatization schedule and days on the Inca Trail to safely make your way through and experience as many of the Inca sites as possible. Choosing the right itinerary is vital for a safe, enjoyable, and successful experience in a low-oxygen environment higher up the trail to Machu Picchu.

If you fail to acclimatize well, then you run the risk of getting altitude sickness higher up. And trust us when we say it’s not the most pleasant thing to experience hiking the Inca Trail.

How to be Successful When Trekking at Altitude

Breathing techniques, low heart rates, excellent hydration, and pacing are all extremely important in order to be safe and successful. Also, you need excellent physical conditioning to be able to walk up and down thousands of steps with a weighted back pack at high altitude.

We can help you with this. DROP US AN E-MAIL today and get access to our Inca Trail trekking professionals. Our office staff have personally trekked the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu more than 10 times. Pick up the phone and speak to us. We have the trekking team, experience, and knowledge to help you come fully prepared for your Inca Trail Trek.

What to Pack for the Inca Trail Tour?

And finally, you need to know what to pack for your hike. We cover that in more detail in our video, but in essence, our advice would be to prepare the following equipment:

• a solid, waterproof trekking backpack with a waist strap,
• a sleeping bag and sleeping pad,
• a change of clothes (hiking pants, t-shirts, long sleeve shirts, undergarments, etc.),
• a sturdy and solid pair of hiking boots,
• hiking socks,
• rain jacket, poncho, or another piece of waterproof clothing,
• cap or hat for sun protection,
• sunglasses,
• sunscreen,
• bug spray
• trekking poles,
• toiletries (toothbrush, deodorant, washcloth, etc.),
• toilet paper,
• essential medications,
• some light snacks,
• power bank.

As said, you will find a full list in our video guide. We will also send you a dedicated Inca Trail 40-page dossier, a full list of necessary items to pack, and other information regarding the Inca Trail hike to Machu Picchu.

Our inca Trail Staff

At Ian Taylor Trekking, we provide the best possible service to our customers and are proud of the experience that our porters bring. That is why we hire full-time staff in Cusco and pay our porters 25% more than other companies. It’s a win-win for our staff and customers. Our porters are motivated to provide the best possible service with a smile, and you get the most out of your trekking!

And not only do we provide financial assistance for staff to further their education, but we also contribute to the growth and development the town of Queullococha, the local community where most of our porters come from.

Useful Links

We have added some useful links below that will aid in your planning and preparation for your trek along the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu. We have successfully led hundreds of people through these majestic mountains on their way to visit Machu Picchu.

The following links will aid in your preparation for the trip as well! And if you want to learn more about hiking the Inca Trail, don’t hesitate to CALL US and find out everything you need for your specific trek.

1). Extremely IMPORTANT INFORMATION about Inca Trail permits.

2). Pick the best itinerary for your Inca Trail trek to Machu Picchu

3). Get training and learn the best way to prepare for your Inca Trail trek to Machu Picchu

4). Get FREE constant advice from our professional team

5). Understand the daily distance on the way up and down the Inca Trail Trek to Machu Picchu

6). Have the right clothing and gear for your Inca Trail Trek to Machu Picchu

7). Pacing each day on the trail is critical to success on the Inca Trail

8). Why being hydrated is critical at high altitude and in low oxygen environments

9). Elevation gains on the Inca Trail Trek to Machu Picchu. This will help you formulate a training plan

10). What sort of food will I get on your Inca Trail Trek to Machu Picchu

11). Read our Top 10 Tips for a successful Inca Trail Trek to Machu Picchu

12). Read our Top 10 Tips for when you are on the Inca Trail Trek to Machu Picchu

13). Read about the best time to trek the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu

14). What type of trekking boots should you have for your Inca Trail Trek to Machu Picchu

15). What Insurance do I need for your Inca Trail Trek to Machu Picchu

16). Here are 10 reasons to Pick us for your Machu Picchu Trek

17). Here is some additional training advice for going downhill

18). We support the community in Peru where most of our porters come from.

19). Here are two options for insurance cover for your Machu Picchu Trek. Option 1 and Option 2.

Why Trek the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu with Ian Taylor Trekking?

Since you can only trek the Inca Trail with one of the approved tour operators, you need to choose the right tour company. We can help with that. By choosing Ian Taylor Trekking for your Inca Trail hike, you can take advantage of an experienced team of trekking professionals to guide you through the wonders of the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu.

Support a company that has invested in its local staff. We pay our porters 25% more than other companies and we support our porters community. Our team have also raised funds to build a school in Uganda, four schools in Nepal, support an orphanage in Tanzania, and also help support local children in Cusco.

We have our own full-time staff on the ground in Cusco, and we run a quality service on all our trekking trips to Machu Picchu. CONTACT US, and we can explain how we operate our adventures in Peru.

The trek to Machu Picchu will be the highlight of any trekker‘s career! Thus, you need to make sure you put in the right training and preparation to make this journey a success. Let our team help you to reach your goals today!

Hiking the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu – FAQs

Where to get water when hiking the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu?

You don’t need to worry about your drinking water when hiking the Inca Trail with Ian Taylor Trekking. Our tour guides will provide you with cold water every morning, lunch, and evening, ensuring you are properly hydrated during your hike. The only thing we recommend you have are water purification tablets to use on the provided water.

What is the Food like on the Inca Trail Tour?

Besides drinking water, our staff will also provide you with top-quality food, ranging from snacks and fruits to meat and grains. We also serve three-course meals three times a day, ensuring you get all the energy and nutrients necessary to complete a full day’s hike. You can also buy snacks on the trail to Machu Picchu from local sellers.

Do I Need to Purchase Special Inca Trail Insurance?

Although you’ll be guided by the best professionals possible, there’s always the risk of something going wrong when hiking the Inca Trail. For example, if you fall sick or injure yourself and are unable to hike, you will need to be evacuated. Without proper travel insurance in place, evacuation will be more than expensive.

Therefore, we always encourage our customers to purchase a dedicated travel insurance policy, whether it’s the Inca Trail trek to Machu Picchu or any other of our hiking trips.

How Much Money to Bring on my Inca Trail trek to Machu Picchu?

That depends entirely on you. Practically all the most significant costs will be covered up-front, so you won’t need to worry about food or water. Still, it might be a good idea to bring some soles to buy snacks or access toilets (typically 2 sol). You will also be expected to tip the porters and guides. Finally, there are the costs of any souvenirs you wish to purchase and meals once you reach the Sacred Valley.

How Much Does Hiking the Inca Trail Cost?

That depends on which offer you choose. As covered, we offer three main Inca Trail tours, either 4, 5, or 6-day. The cost will cover the accommodation, food, water, and other basic expenses. The only things you will need to cover yourself are souvenirs when visiting Machu Picchu, meals at Aguas Calientes and Cusco, and tips at the end of the trip (we recommend tipping the team around $200).

The Fire That Led to the Discovery of a Lost Inca Trail

It was in August 1988, that a fire in Machu Picchu led to the discovery of a lost Inca Trail. The fire started in Santa Rita de Q’ente.  The fire ignited and spread rapidly along the railway line connecting Ollantaytambo to the site and had been caused by the clearance of a piece of land for cultivation.

Due to the lost vegetation, the workers slowly began to see the presence of some low walls and terraces. It was just a matter of discovering if they were part of another Inca Trail and if they reached other sites. The Inca trail around the sanctuary had in fact been hidden by the bushes for all those years.

The fire lasted for about fifty days and his burn exposed the lost Inca Trail which resulted in the discovery of the royal Inca route connecting all the archeological sites. This is the magnificent Inca Trail to Machu Picchu that we know and hike today.