The Inca Trail to Machu Picchu: Complete Guide
The Classic Inca Trail is the most famous trek in the Americas — a 4-day, 43 km walk along original Inca stone roads through cloud forest and high Andean passes, finishing at the Sun Gate (Inti Punku) above Machu Picchu at dawn.
It is the only trek that enters Machu Picchu on foot via the ancient Inca gate, and it is strictly permit-limited: 500 people per day including guides and porters, with no independent trekking allowed.
The Permit System
Inca Trail permits are limited to 500 per day (including guides and porters, so roughly 200 trekkers) and sell out months in advance for the May–September high season — often by January for the most popular dates. The trail closes entirely in February for maintenance.
Permits can only be obtained through a licensed operator; independent trekking is not permitted. Book as early as possible — 4–6 months ahead for peak season. Permits are tied to your passport and are non-transferable.
The Route
The trek begins at Km 82 on the railway to Aguas Calientes, climbing over Dead Woman's Pass (4,215 m, the high point) on day 2, crossing two further passes, and passing Inca ruins (Runkurakay, Sayacmarca, Phuyupatamarca) before the final descent to the Sun Gate on day 4.
Acclimatise in Cusco (3,400 m) or the Sacred Valley for at least 2–3 days before starting. Porters carry the camp and cooking gear; trekkers carry only a daypack.
Preparation and What to Pack
Porters carry the camp, cooking gear and food; trekkers carry only a daypack with water, layers, snacks and a head torch. The challenge is altitude, not technical difficulty — Dead Woman's Pass (4,215 m) on day 2 is the high point and the toughest day. Acclimatise in Cusco (3,400 m) or the Sacred Valley for at least 2–3 days before starting, stay hydrated, and walk slowly.
Carry layered clothing for the altitude range (hot valley days to freezing pass mornings), full waterproofs for the cloud-forest sections, broken-in boots, a 4-season sleeping bag (rentals are available from operators), and insect repellent for the lower, warmer final day. A good operator provides the tent, sleeping mat, meals and the mandatory permit. Tipping the porter crew is customary — your operator will advise on the current recommended amounts.
Frequently asked questions
- How long is the Inca Trail? 43 km over 4 days, crossing Dead Woman's Pass (4,215 m) and finishing at the Sun Gate above Machu Picchu.
- How do I get an Inca Trail permit? Permits are limited to 500 per day (including guides and porters) and must be booked through a licensed operator — independent trekking is not permitted. Book 4–6 months ahead for peak season; the trail closes in February.
- What is the best time for the Inca Trail? May to September (dry season) for the clearest weather. December–March is the rainy season. The trail closes entirely in February for maintenance.
- Is the Inca Trail hard? Moderate. The challenge is altitude (Dead Woman's Pass is 4,215 m), not technical difficulty. Acclimatise in Cusco for 2–3 days first. Porters carry the camp gear; you carry a daypack.
Mount Toubkal Treks — A comparable 4,000 m+ altitude experience to test acclimatisation before Peru.