Get ready for the adventure of a lifetime with our in-depth guide to hiking the Inca Trail and get the most out of your trip!
The Inca Trail is a well-known hiking route located in the Andes mountain range of Peru.
It was built by the Incas and served as a pilgrimage trail to the sacred site of Machu Picchu — today, it's one of the most popular treks in South America, attracting thousands of hikers every year.
Whether you've been dreaming of hiking this world-renowned 42km trail for years or you're just looking for new trails to challenge yourself, this guide will help you understand what to expect on the trail and how to prepare for it, as well as help you find the best equipment to make your trip as smooth as possible.
- Hiking Season: May to October is the dry season. June–August is the high season.
Route Overview
The classic Inca Trail kicks off at Km 82 of the Inca Road and takes you on an unforgettable four-day adventure.
Along the way, you'll hike through breathtaking landscapes, explore ancient archaeological sites, and finish with the incredible experience of arriving at Machu Picchu on foot.
The trek covers 42km and climbs to over 4,200 meters above sea level — challenging but worth it!
Top Inca Trail Trekking FAQs
Before we dive into the detailed planning for this trip, let's get your most common questions out of the way.
When is the Best Time to Visit Machu Picchu?
Knowing when to hike the Inca Trail to get the experience you want is important!
The best time to visit Machu Picchu is during the dry season, from May to September.
You'll get clear skies, little rain, and perfect conditions for trekking and soaking in the stunning views. But heads up — this is also peak tourist season, so expect some crowds.
If you'd prefer a quieter trip, try going in April or October. These months still have good weather, but with fewer people around.
It’s best to avoid the rainy season (November to March), since heavy rain can make the trek tough and ruin the views.
What is the Altitude of the Inca Trail?
The altitude of the Inca Trail varies greatly throughout the trek, ranging from around 2,400 metres (7,874 feet) at the starting point near Ollantaytambo to the highest point at Dead Woman’s Pass, which reaches an altitude of 4,215 metres (13,828 feet).
This significant variation in altitude means trekkers should be prepared for both challenging climbs and descents, as well as the potential effects of high altitude on the body.
Please note: Many tour guides will have you spend a couple of days camping at the base of the Inca Road to acclimatise to the altitude.
Are Inca Trail Permits Required for Hikers?
If you're planning to hike the Inca Trail, you'll need a permit — no exceptions!
These are issued by the Peruvian government and limited to just 500 people per day, including hikers, guides, and porters.
You'll want to book yours as early as possible, especially during the busy season from May to September, when they sell out fast.
Don’t forget to bring your passport; it’ll need to match your permit and will be checked at various points along the trail.
Are there Camping Spots on the Mountain?
Yes, there are camping spots along the trail that trekkers can use. They’re designed to keep things sustainable and reduce the impact on the mountain.
Most of these spots come with basic facilities like shared restrooms and cooking areas.
If you’re going with a licensed tour operator, they might handle all the camping details— tents, meals, and everything in between —, or you can choose to take your own camping kit that you’ve tried and tested yourself.
What's the Toilet Situation on the Trip?
Facilities can vary depending on the route and camping spots, but most of the time, you’ll find shared restroom facilities at designated campsites. These are usually pretty basic and eco-friendly to help protect the environment.
On more remote parts of the trail, your tour operator might provide portable toilets, or you might need to use biodegradable toilet bags and carry them out to keep the area clean.
Make sure to bring your own toilet paper and hand sanitiser or anti-bac wash, better safe than sorry!
Is there Any Electricity on the Trek?
No, there is no electricity on the trek. It’s essential to plan accordingly by bringing portable chargers or extra batteries for your devices.
Relying on solar-powered chargers, like the Luci Connect Solar Light & Chargers, can also be a great option, especially for longer trips.
Keep in mind that part of the trekking experience is disconnecting from modern conveniences, so consider it an opportunity to truly immerse yourself in nature.
Besides preparing for your trip by buying the appropriate permits and doing some practice walks, you need to make sure you pack all the essential equipment you'll need during your trip.
We've picked out the most important things you'll need to take with you for a comfortable and fun trek.
Download our complete packing checklist to make preparing for your trip to Peru stress-free and easy!
Clothing for the Inca Trail Climate
During the day, especially in the summer months, temperatures on the Inca Trail can climb, making it feel quite warm under the sun.
However, as night falls, the temperatures plummet dramatically, leaving the air chilly and crisp.
This stark contrast means that packing a wide range of clothing options is essential to staying comfortable throughout your trek.
Layered clothing works best, as it allows you to adapt to the changing conditions with ease.
Nights on the Inca Trail can get seriously cold, so having the right sleep setup is a must to stay warm and comfy.
A good sleeping bag with the right tog rating is key, as it’ll help you hold onto your body heat when the temperature drops.
Opting for a mummy sleeping bag design, like the DD Scarba Sleeping Bag, helps keep your head warm and reduces the amount of heat that escapes your body as yousleep. Pair it with a Cotton Mummy Liner for extra comfort.
Don’t forget a quality sleep mat either! It adds a layer of insulation between you and the chilly ground, keeping you warmer and more comfortable.
Trust us, investing in these will make all the difference when it comes to getting a good night’s rest and feeling ready to tackle the next day’s hike.
Protection From Rain (Even in the Dry Season)
A sudden rain shower can pop up out of nowhere,so it’s always a good idea to pack some rain protection.
Trekking poles are a game-changer for long hikes and a must-have for your hiking checklist.
They take a lot of the strain off your knees and joints, especially on those steep downhill stretches, by spreading the impact across your body.
They’re also amazing for keeping your balance on uneven trails, making tricky paths way easier to handle.
Plus, they help you keep a steady rhythm, which can really boost your endurance on longer hikes.
We love the C1 Carbon Fibre Trekking Pole from 3F UL Gear for a great lightweight option, and it's sold singularly, which is great if you prefer to only have one pole.
These make sure you always have safe water to drink without having to lug around a ton of it in your pack. It’ll keep you feeling good and make the hike a lot easier!
Sun Protection
When you’re out on the trail, don’t forget there’s not much shade from the sun. Without good sun protection,it’s easy to get sunburned or even overheat.
To stay safe and comfy, pack a good outdoor sunscreen with a strong SPF to protect your skin from UV rays.
Throw on a wide-brim hat or one with a peak to keep the sun off your face and neck, too.
Snacks for Energy
Hiking can be tough, especially when you hit those challenging parts of the trail. That’s why it’s so important to pack some easy, high-energy snacks to keep you going.
Think trail mix, granola bars, or dried fruit. In other words, light, easy-to-carry options that are packed with nutrients to give you a quick energy boost.
These camping foods are lifesavers when you're tackling steep climbs or long, rugged stretches.
Some of our favourite hiking snacks are:
Mixed nuts and seeds
Protein bars
Dried fruit, such as apricots or raisins
Beef jerky
Peanut butter packets with crackers
Just make sure you bring enough to last your whole hike, and try portioning them into small, grab-and-go packs to make things super convenient.
A Comfortable Backpack
A good backpack can make or break your multi-day hike, so it’s worth choosing one that’s both comfortable and practical.
Look for something in the 50-70 litre range; that’s the sweet spot for carrying everything you’ll need, like clothes, food, and camping gear.
Adjustable chest and waist straps are a must since they help evenly spread the weight, making it easier on your shoulders and back.
Bonus points for padded shoulder straps and a back panel for extra comfort during those long treks.
We also recommend the Highlander Rambler Rucksack with an 88L capacity and waist, chest, and hip straps for ultimate comfort.
How to Prepare for Hiking the Inca Trail
Getting ready for the Machu Picchu Inca Trail hike? It’s all about preparation — both physical and practical — to make sure you have a safe and amazing experience.
Start by working on your fitness with practice hikes that mirror the trail.
Look for paths with steep inclines and uneven terrain to get used to the challenges you'll face.
Gradually increase the distance and elevation of your hikes, and don't forget to practice with a loaded backpack to get a feel for carrying extra weight.
Ideally, you'll want to be comfortable walking 6–8 miles a day with a decent elevation gain while carrying your pack. Adding in some cardio, strength training, and flexibility exercises can really help get you ready for the high-altitude environment.
Before your trip, take a moment to check the health requirements for entering Peru, too.
Vaccinations aren't usually mandatory, but the CDC often recommends ones like hepatitis A, typhoid, and the usual MMR vaccines.
If you're planning on exploring jungle areas during your trip, you might also need a yellow fever vaccine or malaria meds. Be sure to visit a travel health clinic ahead of time to get everything sorted.
Using an Inca Trail tour operator is definitely the easiest way to plan your hike to Machu Picchu.
They take care of everything (permits, transportation, guides, porters, food, and equipment), so you don’t have to stress about the details.
That said, it’s not a must. If you’d rather trek solo or with your own group, you can plan it all yourself, as long as you handle the permits and follow the rules.
It's worth noting that you’ll still need to organise a licensed guide to take you along the trail since the Peruvian government changed the rules in 2002.
The Best Inca Trail Tour Operators
If you're interested in using an Inca Trail tour operator to make your trip easier, we've found the top companies you should check out.
Here are the top 5 Inca Trail tour operators to consider for your adventure:
1. G Adventures — Known for their small group tours and knowledgeable guides, G Adventures offers well-organised itineraries that cater to a variety of fitness levels and preferences.
2. Intrepid Travel — With a strong reputation for ethical travel, Intrepid Travel combines expert planning with a focus on sustainable tourism, ensuring an unforgettable experience along the trail.
3. Llama Path — A locally operated company, Llama Path is celebrated for its excellent customer service, experienced guides, and commitment to supporting local communities.
4. SAM Travel Peru — Specialising in customisable tours, SAM Travel Peru provides a range of options, from shorter treks to the classic 4-day route, all with a focus on authentic cultural experiences.
5. Peru Treks — With over 15 years of experience, Peru Treks is widely praised for their professional support team, eco-conscious practices, and excellent value for money.
These companies offer a variety of packages, so it's worth researching to find the one that best suits your travel style and needs.
Example Day-By-Day Inca Trail Itinerary
The classic Inca Trail takes 4 days to trek at a reasonable pace. We've created a basic day-by-day itinerary to give you an idea of what each day will look like during your trip.
Note: If you're attempting the trail through a tour operator, they'll provide you with a specific itinerary that's tailored to their offering. This is just a rough guide to help you know what to expect before you head out there.
Day 1
The adventure begins with an early morning pick-up from Cusco and a scenic drive to Piscacucho (Kilometre 82), where the trek officially starts.
Hikers cross the Urubamba River and follow the trail through rolling hills, passing small villages and archaeological sites along the way.
The day ends at the first campsite in Ayapata, offering stunning mountain views.
Day 2
This is often considered the most challenging day of the trek as hikers ascend to the highest point, Dead Woman’s Pass (4,215 meters/13,828 feet).
After the steep climb, the descent to the Pacaymayo Valley is equally demanding.Along the way, trekkers experience breathtaking panoramas of the surrounding peaks and valleys.
The second campsite is set in an area rich with natural beauty.
Day 3
Known as the most scenic day, hikers will visit multiple archaeological sites, including Runkurakay, Sayacmarca, and Phuyupatamarca.
The trail winds through lush cloud forests and well-preserved sections of the ancient path.
After hours of exploring fascinating ruins and enjoying picturesque landscapes, the day ends at Wiñay Wayna, the final campsite before reaching Machu Picchu.
Day 4
An early start ensures hikers reach the famous Sun Gate (Inti Punku) in time to witness the first rays of sunlight illuminating Machu Picchu.
Descending to the iconic citadel, trekkers have ample time to explore the remarkable ruins on a guided tour.
The trek concludes with a descent to the town of Aguas Calientes, from where the train back to Cusco completes the unforgettable journey.
Get Ready for Your Inca Trail Trip With Wood To Water
If you're planning to conquer the iconic Inca Trail trek to Machu Picchu, Wood To Water is your one-stop shop for all the gear you'll need.
Shop online today to ensure you're fully prepared for this unforgettable adventure in Peru, and start your journey with the right equipment – because every great trek begins with great gear!
Yes, you need your passport for the Inca Trail. It is required for identification at checkpoints and to validate your permits.
Do You Need a Guide to Hike the Inca Trail?
Yes, hiring a licensed guide is mandatory to hike the Inca Trail. Guides ensure safety, provide essential knowledge about the route, and handle necessary permits, making it a requirement for all trekkers.
How Long Does it Take to Get to the Inca Trail?
The Inca Trail starts about 82 kilometres from Cusco, Peru.
From Cusco Airport, travel options include a 2-hour train or a 2.5-hour drive to Ollantaytambo, followed by further transport to the trail's starting point at Kilometre 82.
Can a Beginner Hike the Inca Trail?
Yes, a beginner can hike the Inca Trail with preparation. It requires adequate fitness, acclimatisation to altitude, and determination. Guided tours offer support, making it achievable for those willing to train and adapt to the challenging conditions.
