The Inca Trail is a hiking route that stretches for about 43 kilometers and connects the city of Cusco with the archaeological site of Machu Picchu. It is considered one of the most popular and emblematic treks in South America, and attracts thousands of visitors every year.
The trail has several natural and archaeological attractions, such as beautiful panoramic views of the Andes, rivers, waterfalls and numerous Inca archaeological sites. In addition, along the route, hikers can enjoy the flora and fauna of the region, which includes species such as the vicuña, Andean fox, taruca and a wide variety of birds.
The trek usually lasts between 4 and 5 days, and hikers camp in specific areas along the route. It is important to mention that a special permit is required to hike the Inca Trail and the number of daily permits is limited. It is advisable to book in advance through a travel agency to secure a place on the trail.
The Inca Trail is a unique and unforgettable experience for those seeking an adventure in contact with nature and Inca culture.
Inca trail itinerary 2 days
It is important to mention that currently it is not possible to do the Inca Trail in only 2 days, since the complete trail has a duration of 4 days. However, there are alternative 2-day trekking options that are also very interesting and beautiful.
One of these options is the “Short Inca Trail” hike, which is an abbreviated version of the full Inca Trail. The itinerary of the 2-day “Short Inca Trail” trek can be as follows:
Day 1: Cusco – Km. 104 – Wiñaywayna – Machu Picchu Pueblo (Aguas Calientes).
- Departure from Cusco early in the morning to Ollantaytambo train station.
- Travel by train to kilometer 104 of the railway.
- Beginning of the hike to Wiñaywayna, one of the main archaeological sites of the Inca Trail.
- Continuation of the hike to Machu Picchu Pueblo (Aguas Calientes).
- Overnight in a hotel in Machu Picchu Pueblo.
Day 2: Machu Picchu
- Early in the morning, ascent by bus from Machu Picchu Pueblo to the entrance of Machu Picchu.
- Guided tour of the archaeological site of Machu Picchu.
- Free time to explore the site on your own.
- Descent by bus to Machu Picchu Pueblo.
- Lunch at Machu Picchu Pueblo.
- Return trip by train from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo train station.
- Return transfer by bus from Ollantaytambo to Cusco.
It is important to note that this itinerary is only a suggestion and may vary depending on the travel agency or tour operator that is hired to make the “Short Inca Trail” trek. It should also be noted that a special permit is required for any type of trekking on the Inca Trail and that the number of daily permits is limited.
Inca trail itinerary 4 days
The complete Inca Trail lasts 4 days and 3 nights, and can be done with a tour guide and a group of people or privately. Below is a sample itinerary for the 4-day Inca Trail:
Day 1: Cusco – Piscacucho – Huayllabamba
- Departure from Cusco early in the morning by bus to Piscacucho, the starting point of the Inca Trail.
- Start of the hike to the first campsite in Huayllabamba.
- During the hike you can see beautiful views of the Andes and some Inca archaeological sites.
- Dinner and overnight at the camp.
Day 2: Huayllabamba – Pacaymayo
- After breakfast, start of the hike to the second camp in Pacaymayo, through the highest point of the Inca Trail, the Warmiwañusca Pass (4200 m.a.s.l.).
- During the hike you can see breathtaking views of the Andes and the surrounding nature.
- Dinner and overnight at the camp.
Day 3: Pacaymayo – Wiñaywayna
- After breakfast, start of the hike to the third camp in Wiñaywayna.
- During the hike you can visit several Inca archaeological sites, including the impressive complex of Runkuracay and the archaeological site of Sayacmarca.
- Dinner and overnight at the camp.
Day 4: Wiñaywayna – Machu Picchu – Cusco
- Early in the morning, start of the hike to Inti Punku (Sun Gate), where you can see the impressive view of Machu Picchu at sunrise.
- Descent to Machu Picchu for a guided visit of the archaeological site.
- Free time to explore the site on your own.
- Descent by bus from Machu Picchu Pueblo (Aguas Calientes) to the train station.
- Return trip by train from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo train station.
- Return transfer by bus from Ollantaytambo to Cusco.
It is important to keep in mind that this itinerary is only a suggestion and may vary depending on the travel agency or tour operator you hire for the Inca Trail. It should also be noted that a special permit is required for any type of trekking on the Inca Trail and that the number of daily permits is limited.
How to book the inca trail
To hike the Inca Trail, it is necessary to book in advance through a travel agency or tour operator authorized by the Peruvian government. The Peruvian government has established a daily limit on the number of permits that can be issued to enter the Inca Trail, so it is important to book in advance to ensure you get a permit for the desired date.
The steps to book the Inca Trail are as follows:
- Find a travel agency or tour operator authorized by the Peruvian government that offers tours to the Inca Trail.
- Check the availability of dates for the tour you wish to book. Keep in mind that permits to enter the Inca Trail are limited and sell out quickly, so it is important to book well in advance.
- Provide the information required by the travel agency or tour operator, such as the number of participants, dates of travel, contact information and payment.
- Make the payment required by the travel agency or tour operator to confirm the reservation.
- Once the reservation has been confirmed, the travel agency or tour operator will provide information on the details of the tour, including meeting points, necessary equipment and required permits.
