Inca Trail to Machu Picchu

The classic Inca Trail is a 4-day, 43 km hike on original Inca stone paths from Km 82 in the Sacred Valley to Machu Picchu, passing Inca ruins, cloud forest and high passes, including Dead Woman's Pass at 4,215 m. On the last morning you arrive at the Sun Gate (Inti Punku) to see Machu Picchu below you at sunrise.

Permits are strictly limited (around 500 people a day, including porters and guides) and you can only walk with a licensed tour operator, so book several months ahead, especially for May to September. The trail is closed every February for maintenance. Spend 2 or 3 days in Cusco first to acclimatise.

If the classic trail is full, try the short 2-day Inca Trail from Km 104, or alternative treks such as Salkantay or Lares, which end with a train or bus to Machu Picchu.