Bets Inka Trail to Machu Picchu 8 Days / 7 Nights

What do we offer you at 8-Day Best Inka Trail?

• LOCAL COMPANY. – SPT Travel & Tours is a 100% local company based in Cusco, Peru. Created by with the aim to serve the best experience possible to our visitors
• CAMPING EQUIPMENT. – SPT Travel & Tours is considered a top broker due to the provision of premium equipment such as tents, mats, sleeping bags and others.
• FOOD.- During your trek with SPT Travel & Tours you will surely put on a few pounds. Our chefs receive special training each year to create one-of-a-kind meals on the runway. Our dishes are prepared with fresh ingredients and served as a buffet. Our services include breakfast, snack, lunch that will come with soup, main course and hot drinks. At the time of arrival to the camps and before dinner you’ll be served teatime with hot drinks, popcorn, etc. Then, delicious dinners that include soup, main course and desserts. We also provide drinking water in your water bottle in every meal.

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• PORTABLE TOILETS.- SPT Travel & Tours provides portable ecological toilets in each of its camps and for the private use of our clients only.
• PERSONAL PORTER.- Our 4-Day Hike Inka Trail package includes a porter service that allows the traveler to carry 7kg of personal belongings on the trail. All personal effects are transported by our porters from campa to camp in duffle bags that we provide.
• HOTEL TO HOTEL SERVICE.- SPT Travel & Tours offers hotel to hotel service to all its travelers. All our services start with a direct pick up from your hotel in Cusco and end with a direct return in Cusco.
• FREE LUGGAGE STORAGE.- SPT Travel & Tours offers free luggage storage for all extra bags and personal effects. You also can store in your hotel; both are free.
• FIRST QUALITY SERVICE.- When you book Inka Trail Trek with us, then be sure that you’ll receive the best service. Our dedicated team will be proud to take you in a memorable trekking experience.

Short Itinerary for 8-Day  Best Inka Trail Trek

Day 1: Arrival to Cusco:

Welcome to Cusco! Upon arrival, we will transfer you to your hotel. Take some time to relax and acclimate to the beautiful city.

Day 2: Maras & Moray Tour:

Embark on a captivating journey to the Inca site of Moray and the stunning salt mines of Maras. In the afternoon, visit the Inca fortress of Ollantaytambo.

Day 3: Cusco – Km82 – Wayllabamba:

Embark on the awe-inspiring Inca Trail tour from Cusco to Wayllabamba. Trek 11km, visiting Inca sites along the way.

Day 4: Wayllabamba – Dead Woman’s Pass (4200masl) – Paqhaymayu:

Hike from Wayllabamba to Paqhaymayu valley, passing through the highest pass, Warmiwañusqa, at 4200 meters above sea level. Enjoy breathtaking landscapes and a serene campsite.

Day 5: Paqhaymayu – Phuyupatamarca – Wiñaywayna:

17 km hike, reaching highest elevation of 3600m. Set up camp at 2680m. Challenging hike with weather transition from cold to warm. Explore Inca sites: Runkuraqhay, Sayacmarka, Phuyupatarmarca, Intipata, Wiñay Wayna.

Day 6: Wiñaywayna – MACHU PICCHU – Cusco:

Wake up at 4:00 am. Trek to Machu Picchu. Witness first lights over ancient ruins. 2-3 hour informative tour. Bus ride to Aguas Calientes for lunch. Return to Ollantaytambo Train Station. Transfer to hotel in Cusco.

Day 6: Day Free:

Rest day or optional tours in Cusco. City tour, rafting, horseback riding, mountain biking. Explore city at leisure.

Day 7: Rainbow Mountain Tour:

Pickup from hotel at 05:30 am. 3.5-hour drive to trailhead in “Quesiuno” (4,326 m / 14,189 ft). Pit stops and optional breakfast along the way.

Day 8: Transfer Out:

Transfer to airport after breakfast in hotel.

Complete itinerary for 8-Day Best Inka Trail to Machu Picchu:

Day 1: Arrival to Cusco:

Upon your arrival to Cusco, we will greet you and provide a seamless transfer to your hotel. To ensure a hassle-free experience, please share your flight details with us. Take this time to relax and acclimate to the beautiful city of Cusco, as there are no planned activities for today. Prepare yourself for an amazing tour in the days to come!

Day 2: Maras & Moray Tour:

Our adventure begins promptly at 9:00 am with a tour that includes a pick-up directly from your hotel. We’ll begin by whisking you away to the picturesque town of Maras, located 52 km from Cusco at an impressive altitude of 3,380 meters above sea level. Prepare to be captivated by Maras’ renowned salt mines, known as “Salineras de Maras.” These salt mines consist of approximately 3000 small wells, meticulously harvested through a precise drying process. Dating back to Inca times, they have served as a vital means of economic exchange. As we venture onward, an awe-inspiring archaeological site awaits just 7 km from Maras.

Behold the majestic terraces of Moray, created in a circular formation as a unique agricultural experimental center. Once utilized by the Incas, Moray provided insights into the adaptation of plants to diverse ecosystems. The ingenious design features overlapping circular stone rings that progressively widen with altitude, boasting a remarkable total depth of 150 m. Our knowledgeable guide will accompany you on this captivating tour, unveiling the secrets and history behind each enchanting location. After this enlightening experience, we will make our way to Ollantaytambo, where we’ll explore the Inca fortress before overnighting in this town.

Day 3: Cusco – Ollantaytambo – Pisqhakuchu (Km 82) – Wayllabamba.

Embark on an incredible adventure as your Inka Trail trekking team picks you up from your hotel in Cusco or the Sacred Valley. Drive to Pisqhakuchu, also known as km. 82, the starting point of the 4-Day Hike Inka Trail Trek to Machu Picchu. Along the way, we’ll stop in the town of Ollantaytambo for breakfast and to gather supplies for the trek. Upon arrival at the trailhead, meet your team of chefs, porters, and guides and enjoy a briefing. After preparing with sunblock and insect repellent, head to the control point to show your passports and Permits.

The journey to the lost city of the Incas begins. The first part of the trek is a relatively easy two-hour hike to Patallaqta, the first ancient site along the Inka Trail. Enjoy breathtaking views of the city surrounded by mountains and rivers. Continue for another hour to Hatunchaca, located in the heart of the Cusichaka Valley, where the team will be waiting with a delicious lunch made from fresh local produce. After lunch, continue the hike until reaching the first camp in Wayllabamba at 3000masl, arriving around 5:00 pm. Your tent, a snack, and a hot drink will be ready for you. Take time to rest and admire the mountain views before dinner.

• Hiking distance: 11km
• Trail head elevation: 2720m
• Campsite elevation: 3000m
• Hiking difficulty: moderate
• Weather: Warm to cold
• Inca sites to see / visit: Ccanabamba, Willkaraqhay and Llactapata

Day 4.- Wayllabamba – Dead Womens pass- Paqhaymayu

On Day 4 of the Inka Trail trek, we will start your day with a warm cup of coffee or coca tea right in your tent, ensuring you’re ready for the adventure ahead. Today’s itinerary includes the most challenging part of the hike, as we ascend uphill for approximately 4 hours to reach Llulluchapampa, where we will enjoy a delicious lunch and replenish our water bottles.

The highlight of the day awaits us at Dead Woman’s Pass, the highest point of the entire trek standing at an impressive 4215 meters (13829 feet). Here, we’ll take a moment to embrace the tranquility of this majestic place while our knowledgeable guide conducts a traditional offering ceremony to the Apus, the revered local gods. After taking in the breathtaking views, we’ll embark on a rewarding downhill journey of approximately 2 and a half hours, leading us to the picturesque Paqhaymayu Valley. This is where we’ll set up our camp at an elevation of 3600 meters, surrounded by natural beauty and tranquility.

• Hiking distance: 11 km
• Trail highest elevation: 4200m
• Campsite elevation: 3600m
• Hiking difficulty: challenging
• Weather: cold

Day 5.- Paqhaymayu – Phuyupatamarca pass – Wiñaywayna

Brace yourself for the longest and most captivating day of the trek. After a fulfilling breakfast, we press on towards the second pass. Prepare for a 1:30-hour ascent to the captivating Inka site of Runqurakay, where our knowledgeable trekking guide will unravel its mysteries. We then continue for another 1:45 hours, ascending to the second pass at 4000m/13123ft. Along the way, we’ll marvel at two captivating Inca sites – Runqurakay and Sayacmarca. As we journey onward through Chaquicocha, a dry lake boasting a stunning view of the Vilcabamba mountain range, we’ll pause to enjoy a well-deserved lunch. Once energized, we embark on a delightful and tranquil trail, experiencing the most effortless and thrilling phase of the Inca Trail. This section of the hike is exceptionally diverse, encompassing approximately 5 hours of exploration until we reach our final camp.

Traverse through various ecosystems, encounter the mystical cloud forest, and be captivated by the panoramic grandeur of Salkantay Mountain – Cusco’s second highest peak. En route, we’ll uncover the enigmatic Inca sites of Phuyupatamarka, offering breathtaking views of the Urubamba River, Machu Picchu Mountain, and Intipata – the Terraces of the Sun. At Intipata, take a moment to relax and be enchanted by the magical surroundings. Around 5:00 pm, we shall arrive at the camp. Our next stop will be the awe-inspiring Inca site of Wiñaywayna, where our guide will unravel the rich history of this remarkable place. We’ll return to camp for a delightful evening filled with tea, dinner, and a special farewell surprise.

• Hiking distance: 17 km
• Trail highest elevation: 3600m
• Campsite elevation: 2680m
• Hiking difficulty: challenging
• Weather: cold to warm
• Inca sites to see/visit: Runkuraqhay, Sayacmarka, Phuyupatarmarca, Intipata & Wiñay Wayna

Day 6: Discover Machu Picchu – Cusco

Day 6 marks the pinnacle of this extraordinary journey where we rise early at 4:00am to prepare for a day filled with awe and discovery. Our first stop is the checkpoint, which opens at 5:30am. As the sky gradually brightens, we embark on a one-hour trek towards the Puerta del Sol (Intipunku), immersing ourselves in the breathtaking views along the way. On a clear day, witness the magnificent sunrise over Machu Picchu from Puerta del Sol, an experience that will leave an indelible mark on your memory. From there, we begin our descent into Machu Picchu, reaching the last checkpoint at approximately 7:30am. Next, our knowledgeable Inka Trail guide will lead you on a comprehensive two-hour tour of this ancient city.

After the tour, you can explore Machu Picchu at your own pace or choose to ascend Huayna Picchu Mountain or Machu Picchu Mountain (tickets must be booked well in advance). Your guide will provide detailed instructions on taking the bus from Machu Picchu to Aguas Calientes for lunch and guide you on taking the panoramic train to the Ollantaytambo train station. From there, a comfortable bus will transport you back to Cusco or the Sacred Valley. The dedicated team from SPT Travel & Tours will be waiting to greet you upon your arrival at the train station and ensure your safe return to your hotel. Anticipate reaching Cusco around 7:30pm, concluding your remarkable Machu Picchu tour.

• Hiking distance: 6 km
• Trail head elevation: 2680M
• Machu Picchu elevation: 2400m
• Hiking difficulty: moderate
• Weather: warm

Day 6.- Day Free in Cusco:

On Day 6 of your itinerary, you are presented with an exciting array of options to enhance your experience in Cusco. You can embark on the exhilarating City tour to explore the vibrant sights and immerse yourself in the rich culture. If adventure beckons, you can take on the thrill of rafting, embrace the freedom of horseback riding, or conquer the trails with mountain biking. Alternatively, you can choose to unwind and discover the city at your own pace, indulging in its captivating allure. The choice is yours to make, ensuring a memorable and fulfilling journey.

Day 7.- Rainbow Mountain Tour:

We’ll pick you up from your hotel between 4:30 and 5:00 am. After a comfortable 3-hour car ride from Cusco to the trailhead, we’ll begin our adventure. Brace yourself for a 2-hour uphill hike (4km) from the trailhead to the iconic Rainbow Mountain. The duration of your visit at the mountain will range between 30 minutes to one hour, depending on the weather conditions. As we make our way back, get ready for a scenic 2-hour downhill hike through the mesmerizing Red Valley. We’ll conclude our trek at the car stop, where we’ll hop back into the car for the 3-hour journey back to Cusco. Expect to be back in Cusco by approximately 4:30 pm.

Our tour includes convenient hotel pick-up, a pleasant ride to the town of Cusipata, where we’ll enjoy a delicious breakfast at a local restaurant. We’ll then continue our journey towards the starting point of the hike, called Chilliwani, at an elevation of 4700 m. At the control point, we will pay the entrance fee to the community (20 soles for foreign visitors and 10 soles for Peruvians). Throughout the tour, our knowledgeable guide will provide explanations and insights about the landscape, allowing you to fully appreciate the natural wonders of the area. Keep your camera handy to capture the breathtaking views and vibrant colors of the Rainbow Mountain. After our return hike through the Red Valley, we’ll head back to Cusipata for a buffet lunch. From there, it’s a comfortable 2-hour car ride back to Cusco.

Day 8.- Transfer Out:

After breakfast in the hotel, we’ll transfer to the airport.

8-Day Best Inka Trail Includes:

In the price are Included all necessary things for the tour:

• TRANSPORTATION: transfer in/out airport/hotel/airport, private bus for Maras Moray Tour, bus from Ollantaytambo to Km 82 starting point of the Inca Trail Trek, bus down from Machu Picchu to Aguas Calientes, tourist train Expeditions class from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo, transfer to Cusco hotel. Bus for Rainbow Mountain Tour.
• INCA TRAIL PERMITS.
• ENTRANCE FEES: For Maras Moray Tour, Inca Trail, Machu Picchu and Rainbow Mountain.
• MEALS: All breakfasts in the hotels, delicious meals on the Inca trail prepared by professional chefs. Food includes pancakes, omelets, soups, fresh fruit, avocado, pasta, chicken, fish, meat, rice, all rich in carbohydrates and suitable for trekking, also hot drinks including coca leaf tea which is excellent for the altitude. Teatime everyday (tea, coffee, biscuits, popcorn), (3 breakfast- 3 lunches- 3 dinners- 3 afternoon tees), we always offer a vegetarian option upon request; we provide available boiled water each morning for your water bottles. And Meals on Rainbpow Mountain Tour.
• GUIDE: Licensed bilingual tour guide.
• GENERAL PORTERS.- For camping equipment, food and kitchen gears.
• EXTRA PORTER.- To carry your personal items (7kls) in duffel bags that we provide. With items that you’ll use during the day like. Water, camera, snacks, rain gear and one jacket. You won’t have access to your duffel back until the camp.

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• CAMPING EQUIPMENT: We provide brand new 4 season four people capacity tents for two people, Therm-a-rest, dinning room tent, kitchen tent, toilet tent, seats, tables, tent for the guides and porters, kitchen gear. Backpacks, warm clothes and life insurance for our porters.
• ACCOMMODATIONS: Hotel based on Twin/double occupancy: 3 nights in Cusco, 1 night in Ollantaytambo, If you would like a single room there is an additional cost of US$25.00 per night. 3 nights in camping tents.
• OTHER ITEMS: Local guide for permanent assistance, first aid kit, oxygen bottle.

Not included:

• MEALS: Lunch and dinner on Maras moray Tour and when you are in the cities such as Cusco Ollantyatmbo and Aguas Calientes Town. You must consider a budget from US$10 to US$25 for each meal. We will assist you at these issues.
• Sleeping Bag: Can be rented in our office for US $25 for the entire trek.
• Tips for the staff (optional) and Airport taxes.
• Flights to/from Cusco
• Travel insurance
• Entrance to the hot springs US$ 6.
• Entrance to Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain US$ 65

Packing list:

First on your packing list for your trip to Cusco should be an open mind and a sense of humour!  Don’t come with too many preconceived ideas about what Peru is like, this way your trip will open you up to incredible new horizons and possibilities.

Bring as little as possible. Don’t worry, if you forget something, you can probably buy it in Cusco once you arrive. Tourist shops abound selling a whole range of items from water bottles and first aid kits to hiking gear. You can also rent hiking equipment in Cusco, which can be a good option if you don’t want to travel to Peru with a whole lot of heavy hiking and camping gear.

Packing List:

After asking to our customers who have been traveling around Cusco & Machu Picchu we have come up with our definitive list of what to pack for a trip to Machu Picchu in Peru.

• A GOOD PAIR OF HIKING BOOTS OR WALKING SHOES.- This is not the place to bring those high heels ladies! Steps and uneven cobble stone surfaces abound and if it rains the stones can get slippery.
• A PONCHO FOR THOSE DOWNPOURS.- The weather changes very quickly here. An ideal solution is to carry a good quality poncho in your daypack at all times particularly during the rainy season from November / March. (You can buy ponchos in any of the tourist shops in Cusco but the quality isn’t always great.)
• A WARM JACKET.- Evenings and mornings can be very cold particularly between June – September so a good quality, waterproof and ideally windproof jacket is ideal. Another good option is a warm fleece which you can wear under a light-weight waterproof, windproof jacket.
• GOOD QUALITY SUNSCREEN AND A SUNHAT.- Due to the altitude and Peru’s location close to the Equator frequent application of sunscreen is advised to avoid any nasty sunburn. Be warned, even when it’s cloudy here you can get very burnt.
• BRING CLOTHES THAT YOU CAN LAYER.- Cool mornings mean you may want to wrap up as you set off for a day’s exploring, however by 11am you might want to strip down to a t-shirt and shorts.  Warm layers and trousers that can be unzipped into shorts are great. You will only need a couple or three changes of clothes as you can get washing done anywhere cheaply.

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• A DAY-PACK TO CARRY ALL YOUR BITS AND PIECES.- ideally with a hip strap to make long days hiking and exploring more comfortable.
• A WATER BOTTLE.- Plastic disposal is a real problem in the Sacred Valley so we recommend you buy large bottles and refill water into your own re-useable bottle.
• SMALL FIRST AID KIT FOR BASIC CUTS AND BRUISES AND TUMMY UPSETS.- Pharmacies abound in Cusco and other small towns in the Sacred Valley where you can buy basic first aid and medical supplies. Do make sure however, that you bring enough of any prescription medicine you might need as some brands and types of medicine might not be available in Peru. A good rule of thumb is to bring enough prescription medicine to cover you for the length of your trip plus an extra week in case you get delayed.
• A spare pair of prescription glasses or contact lenses plus a copy of your prescription is a good idea.
• A SMALL POCKET SIZE TORCH.
• Earplugs for when you are stuck in a noisy room or want to sleep on the bus or plane.
• A DUCKPACK.- or rainproof covering for your daypack or backpack is a must particularly if you are travelling during the rainy season to avoid wet clothes and personal items. This is particularly important if you are going to be doing any multi-day hiking including the Inca Trail.

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• A HAT, SCARF AND GLOVES FOR THOSE COLD MORNINGS AND EVENINGS.- You can buy fabulous Peruvian style hats and gloves at the local markets so don’t worry if you forget to bring these with you.
• PACK YOUR TOILETRIES IN ZIP LOCK BAGS.- For some reason the altitude can cause shampoo and other bottles to pop leaving a nasty mess in your bag, Pack all toiletries in sealed bags to avoid any unnecessary mess.
• INSECT REPELLENT.- particularly if you plan on going trekking the INca Trail to Machu Picchu.
• CAMERA.- with lots of memory and battery for all those great shots you are definitely going to want to take. Take enough padlocks for every double zipper to stop wandering hands and lock up your important belongings, even in your hotel room.

Packing Essentials:

• Passport with minimum 6 month validity left.
• Photocopies of important documents like passport and tickets. Keep these separate from the originals.
• Travel insurance.
• Prescriptions for any medication you require. Most chemists will sell medicine over the counter without a prescription, but if you are searched by immigration it’s good to be able to show you require what you’re carrying.

Essential Info About 8-Day Best Inka Trail Package

DECRIPTION ABOUT BEST INKA TRAIL PACKAGE.

Experience an unforgettable 8-Day journey through the heart of the Incan Empire with our meticulously crafted 8-day Best Inka Trail Package. Your adventure begins in the historic city of Cusco, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with its unique blend of Spanish and Incan architecture. Explore the fascinating Maras salt mines, where hundreds of salt pans have been in use since Incan times, and tour the Moray Inca sites, famous for their terraced circular depressions.

The focal point of your journey, the Inka Trail, is a hiker’s dream. Immerse yourself in pristine wilderness, mountain landscapes, and ancient ruins, culminating in the spectacular citadel of Machu Picchu. Witness the towering Andean peaks, hike through lush cloud forests, and learn about the rich cultural heritage of the Incas from our experienced guides.

The journey doesn’t end here. Your last adventure is a trip to the vibrant Rainbow Mountain, known for its multi-colored mineral deposits. This trek offers an awe-inspiring finale to an unforgettable journey. This 8-day Best Inka Trail Package is more than a simple tour; it’s a once-in-a-lifetime experience that will leave you mesmerized by the beauty and history of Peru. Book now and immerse yourself in the magic of the Inka Trail to Machu Picchu.

Experience the magic and wonder of Peru’s Inka Trail to Machu Picchu on this 8-day Best Inka Trail journey. Our carefully crafted package offers a perfect blend of adventure, history, and culture. Begin your trip in the captivating city of Cusco, where you’ll be surrounded by stunning Spanish and Incan architecture.

FOOD FOR PRIVATE INCA TRAIL HIKE

Our 8-day Best Inka Trail to Machu Picchu offers you not only an unforgettable trekking experience but also a culinary journey that is second to none. Our chefs, the best in the Andes, take great pride in serving you meals that outshine even the most celebrated restaurants in Cusco. They are well-trained to cater to your specific dietary needs and preferences, ensuring that every meal is both delicious and nutritious.

From breakfast to dinner, and even afternoon tea, every meal is meticulously planned and presented. Expect a generous spread of local fruits such as bananas, oranges, papayas, and watermelon. Enjoy a range of hot beverages including instant coffee, tea, and comforting hot chocolate. Our afternoon “Tea” time is not to be missed, featuring treats like peanuts, popcorn, fried bread, and biscuits.

For those with special diets, rest assured that we can accommodate your needs. However, we kindly request that you inform us in advance and remind your guide during your trek briefing. If you’re on a vegetarian diet, be aware that protein options might be limited, and you might want to consider bringing protein supplements.

The meals and snacks are all-inclusive until the last lunch, after which you can explore the variety of restaurants in the town of Aguas Calientes. Embark on the 8-day Best Inka Trail package and savor the best of the Andean culinary experience!

WHY SUNRISE PERU TREK?

Sunrise Peru Trek is not just another tour operator. We are the best in the business when it comes to the Best Inka Trail package. Our extensive experience and strong reputation speak for themselves. We take great pride in providing exceptional service and ensuring the well-being of our clients and local communities.

Our passion for the mountains is unrivaled, and we are dedicated to the health, education, and overall welfare of our Inca trail porters and guides. This commitment sets us apart from the rest. We have established the highest standards for best practices on the 8-day Best Inka Trail and closely collaborate with the National Park to benefit all involved.

As part of our devotion to our team and the local community, we proudly sponsor a local porter project and offer one of the highest salaries on the trek. Safety and personalized attention are of utmost importance to us, which is why we maintain one of the highest guide to client ratios on the mountain. Additionally, we also carry portable oxygen to effectively manage altitude sickness, should the need arise.

Choose Sunrise Peru Trek for an unforgettable tour experience that goes beyond exploration. By joining us, you will support local communities and responsible tourism, making a positive impact with every step you take.

LOCAL, INDIGENOUS OWNED COMPANY.

Sunrise Peru Trek is a local, indigenous-owned company founded by Mauro Pedraza Valverde. Born and raised in Cusco, Mauro started from the ground up, gaining invaluable experience as a porter while studying tourism at the University. With his growing proficiency in English, he transitioned to working in an agency office, ensuring all trekkers were well taken care of. Over 25 years as a guide, Mauro honed his skills and observed the mistreatment of porters by some companies, including heavy loads and inadequate compensation. Motivated to improve the lives of those in Cusco, he established Sunrise Peru Trek. With the support of his trusted friends and family, Mauro built a company with a steadfast commitment to both his team and clients.

PERSONALIZED EXPERIENCES.

Our commitment to personalized experiences means that we prioritize catering to your unique needs. Whether you have dietary restrictions, are celebrating a joyous occasion, or require itinerary adjustments, our dedicated office team will be by your side, ensuring a flawless vacation.

Here is a detailed, impressive, and factual Quora answer on how difficult the Best Inka Trail Package is:

The 8-day Best Inka Trail Package is considered a moderate to difficult trek, but with proper preparation and reasonable fitness levels, it is very achievable for most people. Here’s a comprehensive look at what makes this iconic hike challenging, along with tips for making the most of the experience:

Distance & Elevation Gain.

The Inka Trail consists of a 26-mile trek through the Andes mountains, starting at an elevation of around 9,000 feet and reaching nearly 14,000 feet at the highest pass. The average hiking distance is 13 km (8 miles) per day for 4 days, with the longest day covering 16 km. These distances are manageable for most hikers, but paired with significant elevation gains of up to 1,200 feet on pass crossing days, it makes for a strenuous workout. Proper acclimatization to the altitude and pacing yourself during the climbs is key.

Difficult Terrain.

The trail is not a smooth, groomed hike. Expect plenty of uneven steps, rocks and boulders to navigate, and high steps cut into stone. There are ample ancient Inca stone paths still beautifully intact, but also expect areas of unmaintained trail with loose gravel, slippery stones, and narrow ledges with drop-offs. Trekking poles are highly recommended for balance and knee relief. Proper hiking boots with ankle support and traction are a must.

High Elevation & Altitude Sickness.

The maximum elevation of 14,000 feet can cause altitude sickness for some, especially when climbing up to the two high passes of Warmiwañusca (13,779 ft) and Runkurakay (13,788 ft). Nausea, headaches, and exhaustion are common symptoms that can impact your trekking stamina. To minimize risk, spend a few days acclimatizing in Cusco before the trek, stay very hydrated, and pace yourself by going “pole, pole” (slowly, slowly in Swahili). Standing still at the high passes too long can also trigger symptoms.

Inka Trail Permits Required.

Due to strict limits on traffic allowed on the trail, permits are required for guiding companies and individuals. Permits often sell out 6-12 months in advance, so planning and booking early is essential. If you plan to trek independently without a guide, solo permits are very limited and difficult to secure. Going with an official guide service is by far the easiest option.

By understanding the challenges involved and coming prepared both physically and mentally, the Inka Trail trek is an achievable bucket list adventure. The jaw-dropping views of the Andes in all directions and exploring magnificent Inca ruins along the way make every difficult step worthwhile. Pacing yourself, staying hydrated, packing proper gear, and training ahead of time will help you complete the iconic Inca Trail trek. Just be sure to book permits far in advance to secure your spot on the trail!

Important Inca Sites on the INKA TRAIL to Machu Picchu

The Best Inka Trail presents several significant Inca sites that are worth exploring:

Day 1:

– Llactapata: Situated at an elevation of 2,800masl, this Inca ruin features 100 rooms and numerous terraces used for agriculture, particularly maize cultivation.

Day 2:

– Dead Woman’s Pass: Though not an archaeological site, it deserves mention due to its distinct topography, resembling a woman lying on her back. Located at 4,200masl, this challenging section of the trail offers breathtaking views.
– Runkurakay: Considered one of the Inca Tambo, this round-shaped structure at 3,800masl, known as the “Round Shape Balcony,” served as an Inca lodge.

Day 3:

– Inca Tunnel: Carved by the Incas in solid rock, this 15-meter-long tunnel is a remarkable feature of the Inca Trail, allowing passage through an otherwise impassable section.
– Phuyupatamarka: Translated as “the cloudy place,” this stunning Inca ruin located at 3,800masl can be reached by descending a long flight of stairs. It offers breathtaking views and contains six flowing fountains.
– Intipata: Meaning “Sunny Slope,” this site boasts a large number of Inca terraces that were utilized for agricultural purposes.

Wiñaywayna: Translating to “Forever Young,” Wiñaywayna is considered one of the most picturesque Inca ruins along the Inca Trail. It showcases finely carved stone buildings, a complex fountain and bath system, and an abundance of Inca terraces.

On Day 4th, the journey continues.

Inti Punku: Also known as the Sun Gate, it served as the primary entrance to the sacred site of Machu Picchu.

Rules of Use for the Best Inka Trail Package:

1. Animal hunting and deforestation are strictly prohibited.
2. The flora and fauna along the trail are protected by the natural World Heritage organization and must not be disturbed.
3. Stick to the marked paths at all times and refrain from veering off for any reason.
4. Camp only in designated areas; camping inside archaeological sites or restricted zones is strictly prohibited.
5. Carry all rubbish and waste in plastic bags and dispose of them properly at the end of your trek.
6. Campfires pose a danger and are not allowed.
7. Respecting the intangible nature of archaeological sites, it is crucial to stay on the designated path.
8. In case of an emergency, follow the instructions of the responsible person in charge.