TripAdvisor
Experience the Hike to Machu Picchu
Hike to Machu Picchu
The Inca Trail Map
Hike one of the most popular treks in the world with an authorized travel agency like “Sunrise Peru Trek”!
The Inca Trail to Machu Picchu is a mesmerizing trek that offers a once-in-a-lifetime experience. As you embark on this ancient trail, you’ll trace the footsteps of the legendary Incas, immersing yourself in breathtaking landscapes, rich history, and awe-inspiring archaeological sites. This trail is not just a physical journey but a spiritual and cultural one as well, allowing you to connect with the ancient civilization that once thrived in the Andes. Be prepared to be amazed by the rugged beauty of the Andean mountains, the mystical cloud forests, and the majestic ruins of Machu Picchu. Lace up your boots, take a deep breath, and let the Inca Trail guide you to an adventure that will leave an indelible mark on your soul.
Hike to Machu Picchu.
If you’re planning to hike to the lost city of Machu Picchu, get ready for an adventure like no other. The thrill and sense of achievement that await trekkers at the majestic Machu Picchu are unparalleled. Nestled on the border of the Andes and the Amazon Jungle, this enigmatic wonder has earned its rightful place on the prestigious list of UNESCO’s world heritage sites.
Every year, thousands of trekkers from around the globe embark on the famous Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, but not everyone can conquer its challenges, especially the high altitude. Nevertheless, the Inca Trail remains one of the most renowned treks in the world, attracting adventurers with its awe-inspiring Andean beauty and enchanting cloud forest.
During this remarkable journey, you’ll traverse winding paths and ancient stone-paved routes, passing by captivating Inca temples and structures. Along the way, breathtaking views of snow-capped mountains and scenic valleys will unfold before your eyes, accompanied by the soothing melodies of pristine white rivers. The trek reaches its pinnacle at the renowned “Dead Woman’s Pass” at an impressive altitude of 4,200m/13,997ft, offering panoramic vistas of the sacred Andes and its towering peaks, revered by the locals.
While good health and average physical fitness are recommended for beginner trekkers, rest assured that the journey to Machu Picchu promises an unforgettable experience for anyone willing to undertake this extraordinary adventure.
Why is The Inca Trail hike so popular?
Embarking on the Inca Trail hike in Peru is an incredibly popular choice for adventurous souls seeking a captivating journey. This scenic trail takes you through lush green cloud forests teeming with vibrant birdlife, alongside towering Andean peaks and challenging mountain passes. Along the way, you’ll encounter centuries-old ruins that serve as poignant reminders of the region’s rich history.
But what truly sets this hike apart and draws visitors from all corners of the globe is the awe-inspiring finale awaiting at the end of the four-day adventure. As you pass through the renowned Sun Gate at sunrise, an ethereal sight greets you: the majestic Machu Picchu standing proudly in the distance. This exclusive experience, reserved only for Inca Trail hikers, adds an undeniable allure to this already remarkable trek, placing it firmly on the bucket lists of many aspiring travelers exploring South America.
Having personally hiked the Inca Trail and reaching Machu Picchu via the Sun Gate, we can confidently attest that this is the ultimate way to arrive at this iconic wonder of the world. Rather than joining the masses on the morning bus from Aguas Caliente, arriving with sweat-drenched brows and fatigue-soaked feet accentuates the sense of accomplishment and enriches your connection with this extraordinary attraction.
Believe us when we say, undertaking the Inca Trail hike will be an experience that you’ll treasure for a lifetime.
Trekking route:
To embark on this trekking route, it is imperative to obtain permits and hike alongside an authorized travel agency such as “Sunrise Peru Trek.” Securing these permits well in advance is of utmost importance, as the government limits the number of tourists to 200 per day, with an additional 300 personnel serving as guides and porters.
- SHORT INCA TRAIL TO MACHU PICCHU 2 DAYS
- INCA TRAIL TO MACHU PICCHU 4 DAYS
- INCA TRAIL HIKE PRIVATE SERVICE 4 DAYS
- INCA TRAIL MACHUPICCHU 5 DAYS
- INCA TRAIL EXPLORE & HUAYNAPICCHU 5D
- CLASSIC INCA TRAIL & SACRED VALLEY TOUR 5 DAYS
- INCA TRAIL TREKKING & SALKANTAY TREK 7 DAYS
For the following treks are not necessary permits for now!; but is required to pay the entrance to Machu Picchu
- PATABAMBA TREK & MACHU PICCHU 3 DAYS
- HUCHUY QOSQO TREK & MACHU PICCHU 3 DAYS
- AUSANGATE TREK 4 DAYS
- CHOQUEQUIRAO TREK 4 DAYS
- LARES TREK & MACHU PICCHU 4 DAYS
- SALKANTAY TREK & UMANTAY LAGOON 5 DAYS
- AUSANGATE TREK & RAINBOW MOUNTAIN 6 DAYS
- AUSANGATE CIRCUIT 6 DAYS
- CHOQUEKIRAO TREK TO MACHU PICCHU 8 DAYS
By the end of the trek, you will have enormous memories – images and experiences in your head and in your photographs that will last a lifetime.
Pack well for the Inca Trail hike:
Braving minus temperatures can be exhausting, especially at night so get sleeping bags (At least -10 Celsius). Warm Jackets (Fiberfill or down), Woolen shirts, and thick sweaters should be adequate. The rest is down to the art of layering – thermal longs and a top, thermal underwear, pair of lightweight/heavyweight trousers, cotton t-shirts, fleece, Gore-Tex jacket or rainproof jacket with hood or ponchos, Sun cap (Hat), scarf, and gloves. Thin and thick woolen socks and a pair of sandals to be in the campsite. It’s always better to stay warm then suffer the cold due to lack of proper Clothes.
Difficulty Level:
Hiking to Machu Picchu is a challenging adventure that shouldn’t be underestimated. With a maximum altitude of 4,200m/13,997ft, the terrain is undoubtedly mountainous. The trek is graded as moderate, but even experienced hikers might find it difficult. We strongly recommend being in good health and having average physical fitness. Prior experience with high-altitude treks above 3,000m is a definite advantage before attempting the INCA TRAIL TO MACHU PICCHU. Our expert guides from “Sunrise Peru Trek” will provide you with the necessary acclimatization time and assistance throughout the journey.
Carry cash:
Along the Inca Trail there are not ATMs, but you can use in the town of Aguas Calientes at the end of the trek; the bank charges a fee of 5%. We recommend carry cash you think you need for your trek. You will need some extra cash if you wish to buy snacks, water, and hot shower. Depending on the season certain things such as accommodation, shower rates, and WIFI, can be negotiable. So, try your luck and you might be able to save some cash.
Prepare for altitude sickness:
The Inca Trail Hiking is renowned as the most popular trekking route worldwide. With its soaring altitude reaching 4,200m / 13,997ft, it demands utmost seriousness due to the prevalence of AMS (Acute Mountain Sickness) among trekkers. The main factors contributing to altitude sickness include reduced oxygen levels, low pressure, rapid elevation gain, and dehydration. When venturing on high-altitude treks, it is imperative to attentively listen to your body and not underestimate the impact of AMS. Should any discomfort arise, carefully assess the symptoms and respond accordingly. It is advisable to stay hydrated, consume nutritious meals, steer clear of unhealthy food and alcohol, prioritize sufficient rest during the hike, and allow adequate time for acclimatization in Cusco or at a similar elevation.
The INCA TRAIL to Machu Picchu, in its entirety, embodies a captivating blend of awe-inspiring natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and heartfelt hospitality, creating an unparalleled trekking experience that will be etched in your memory forever. Embark on this hike and embark on an adventure that promises thrills and indelible memories to last a lifetime.
