Inca Trail
Machu Picchu
Peru's most iconic trek — ancient stone paths through cloud forest, mountain passes, and Inca ruins leading to the Sun Gate above the citadel.
Inca Trail to Machu Picchu:
what to expect
Your trek begins in the Sacred Valley and climbs through archaeological sites including Wiñay Wayna before reaching Inti Punku (Sun Gate) at sunrise.
Sacred Valley · Km 82
Begin at the trailhead at 2,700 m. Pass Inca agricultural terraces and your first ruin, Llaqtapata, with views of the Urubamba River below.
Dead Woman's Pass · 4,215 m
The most challenging day. Summit the highest point on the trail and descend through enchanting cloud forest alive with orchids and hummingbirds.
Wiñay Wayna · Cloud Forest
Trek past the best-preserved Inca ruins on the trail. Camp within earshot of waterfalls for your final night on the mountain.
Sun Gate · Machu Picchu
Rise before dawn to reach Inti Punku at sunrise. Your certified guide reveals the history, astronomy, and ongoing research at the sanctuary.
Choose your
Inca Trail
Three formats tailored to your schedule, budget, and travel style.
Classic 4-Day
Inca Trail
Full route with camping, all meals on trail, and a sunrise approach through the Sun Gate. The definitive Andean trekking experience.
- Official permit
- Certified guide
- All meals & camping
- Porter team
2-Day Trek
from Km 104
Starting at Chachabamba, this shorter route suits travellers with limited time while still reaching Machu Picchu via the Inca Trail.
- Official permit
- Certified guide
- Lunch on trail
Inca Trail +
Cusco Package
Combine city tours, Sacred Valley, and Machu Picchu in one fully coordinated program. Includes community tourism add-ons.
- City tour included
- Sacred Valley day
- Community lunch
Inca Trail Permits:
how it works
Peruvian authorities strictly limit daily entries. Permits sell out months ahead in high season — errors in passport data can invalidate your ticket.
Real-time availability check
We query the official system to confirm open spots on your preferred dates before you commit.
Permit secured in your name
Permits are non-transferable. We collect and verify all passport details to avoid costly errors.
Confirmation & documentation
Receive your permit confirmation and full pre-trek briefing document via email.
Porter Welfare &
Ethical Operations
Every traveller receives a Leave No Trace briefing and park regulations overview before departure.
Load Limits Enforced
Every porter's pack is weighed at the trailhead. No one carries beyond the legal limit — no exceptions.
Proper Gear Provided
Warm clothing, quality boots, and sleeping equipment are provided to all support staff before every trek.
Fair Wages Paid
We pay above the minimum wage and maintain long-term relationships with our porter families in local communities.
Leave No Trace
All waste is packed out. We use established campsites and follow all Machu Picchu Sanctuary regulations strictly.
Before & After
Your Trek
Extend your Inca Trail journey with experiences that keep tourism revenue in local hands.
- Community lunch in the Sacred Valley
- Visit to a Quechua textile cooperative
- Stay at a family-run lodge
- Andean cooking workshop
- Agricultural terrace tour with local farmers
"Tourism that transforms,
— Cuzco Travels
not that extracts."
Frequently Asked
Questions
How far in advance should I book the Inca Trail?
For high season (June–August) we recommend booking 4–6 months ahead. In shoulder season (April–May, September) aim for 6–8 weeks minimum. February is closed for trail maintenance.
What fitness level is required for the 4-day Inca Trail?
The trail is demanding — Day 2 reaches 4,215 m (Dead Woman's Pass). We recommend at least 2 weeks of acclimatisation in Cusco and prior cardiovascular training such as hiking or running 3× per week.
Are permits included in the tour price?
Yes. Cuzco Travels manages all official permits from Peru's Ministry of Culture. The permit fee is included in your tour price with no hidden charges.
Can I trek the Inca Trail without a guide?
No. Peruvian law requires a licensed official guide for all trekkers on the classic Inca Trail. All our guides are nationally certified and speak both Spanish and English.
What happens if it rains?
The Inca Trail runs year-round except February. We provide rain gear, and all campsites feature double-layer waterproof tents. The wet season (November–March) means fewer crowds and lush green scenery.
What is included in the tour price?
Included: official permit, certified guide, all meals on trail, camping equipment, porter team, first-aid kit, group transfers from Cusco, and entrance to Machu Picchu. Excluded: sleeping bag (available for hire), travel insurance, and personal expenses.
Secure Your Place on the
Inca Trail Today
Permits are limited. Reserve your spot before they sell out.