If you’re planning a Machu Picchu tour, you’ve probably heard that the fastest way to get there is by train. And that’s true — it’s quick and comfortable. But if you’re the kind of traveler who craves adventure, enjoys long scenic hikes, and wants a deeper connection with nature and history, there’s another way to reach this iconic site: the legendary Inca Trail.
What’s the Deal with the Inca Trail?
The Inca Trail (or Qhapaq Ñan, meaning “Main Road” in Quechua) is part of an ancient network of roads built by the Incas. This massive system stretched over 60,000 kilometers (around 37,000 miles!) and connected the far reaches of the Incan empire.
Today, one of the most famous sections leads straight to Machu Picchu. Along the way, you’ll pass stunning Andean landscapes and several lesser-known but equally impressive archaeological sites. It’s not just a hike — it’s an unforgettable experience.
How Long is the Inca Trail? Two Ways to Hike It
There are two main routes people take: the classic 4-day trek (40 km or 24.8 miles) and the shorter 2-day trek (16 km or 9.9 miles). Here’s what each one looks like:
The 2-Day Inca Trail Itinerary
Day 1: The Hike Begins
- Early hotel pickup in Cusco
- Drive to Ollantaytambo (light breakfast provided)
- Train ride to Km 104 — the starting point
- Hike uphill for 3.5 to 4 hours to reach Wiñay Wayna (box lunch break)
- Continue hiking for about 1.5 hours to the famous Sun Gate (Inti Punku) — enjoy your first glimpse of Machu Picchu!
- Another hour’s walk (downhill) to the Guardian’s House for more stunning views
- Short 15-minute walk to the bus station
- Bus to Aguas Calientes
- Dinner and overnight in a hotel (your guide will let you know when to meet the next morning)
Day 2: Exploring Machu Picchu
- Breakfast at the hotel
- Early bus ride back up to the Machu Picchu site
- 2–3 hour guided tour in English
- Return by bus to Aguas Calientes
- Lunch on your own (not included)
- Train ride back to Ollantaytambo
- Private transport back to your hotel in Cusco
The Classic 4-Day Inca Trail Itinerary
Day 1: Getting Started
- Difficulty: Easy | Distance: ~5.5 miles (9 km) | Altitude: 3,300 m (10,800 ft)
- Pickup in Cusco
- Drive to Ollantaytambo for breakfast, then on to Km 82 (trailhead)
- Hike for 3–4 hours (mostly flat)
- Lunch break
- Slight uphill hike to Wayllabamba campsite
- Dinner and overnight
Day 2: The Toughest Day
- Difficulty: Challenging | Distance: ~7.5 miles (12 km) | Altitude: 4,200 m (13,800 ft)
- Early breakfast
- Steep uphill climb to Dead Woman’s Pass — the highest point on the trail
- Downhill hike to Pacaymayo for lunch
- Another uphill stretch to Runkurakay ruins
- Continue down to Sayacmarca
- Hike to Chaquicocha campsite for dinner and rest
Day 3: The Scenic Day
- Difficulty: Moderate | Distance: ~7 miles (11 km) | Altitude: 4,000 m (13,200 ft)
- After breakfast, hike to Puyupatamarca (gorgeous views!)
- Long downhill trek with a stop at Intipata
- Arrive at Wiñay Wayna campsite
- Lunch, dinner, and overnight here
Day 4: Arrival at Machu Picchu
- Difficulty: Moderate | Distance: ~4 miles (6 km) | Altitude: 2,800 m (9,200 ft)
- Early start with a box breakfast
- 1.5-hour hike to the Sun Gate
- Another hour down to the Guardian’s House for photos
- Final walk to the main entrance of Machu Picchu
- Guided tour (2–3 hours)
- Bus to Aguas Calientes
- Lunch on your own
- Train and transport back to Cusco
Permits & Requirements
- Only 500 people are allowed on the trail per day (about 200 hikers and 300 support staff like guides and porters)
- You must go with a licensed tour operator — no solo treks allowed
- Book early! Permits often sell out 6 to 7 months in advance
- A valid passport required at the time of booking
- The hike is physically demanding, but totally doable with a bit of prep and the right mindset
Whether you choose the 2-day or the 4-day version, hiking the Inca Trail is a once-in-a-lifetime journey. It’s not just about getting to Machu Picchu — it’s about everything you see, feel, and experience along the way.
