Getting to Machu Picchu - Inca Trail Hike

At its peak, the vast Inca Empire was held together by an enormous network of paved roads and trails which crossed the full length of the Andes and reached down into the lowlands on both sides, towards the ocean and the jungle. A total of around 40,000 km, the routes were reserved for Inca nobility, the army and professional messengers who could cover huge distances on foot and repeatedly scaling the vast mountainous peaks and passes.

It was partially thanks to this road system that the Inca developed such a rapid system of communication and supply, allowing their phenomenally rapid expansion across a huge expanse of the continent.

These days, the network is best known for the relatively short stretch that leads from the Sacred Valley into the gates of Machu Picchu. This part of the Inca Trail trek not only leads to Machu Picchu, but also passes several other remarkable Inca ruins and sites. Visitors flock to experience the Inca Trail trek, making this the world's most popular trek. But to get the most out of this unique experience, there are a few important points to bear in mind.

Day 1: Cusco to Wayllabamba
Travel by train from Cusco to the start point of the trail, known as Kilometre 82. Cross the Piscacucho bridge and begin a long climb to the archaeological site of Patallacta. Continue to climb to the first campsite at Wayllabamba with stunning views over the valley and white-capped Mount Veronica.
Total distance: 12km
Total walking time: 6 hours
Gradient: Medium

Day 2: Wayllabamba to Pacaymayo
Begin the day with the most challenging climb of the trek, ascending the 4,200 meter Dead Woman's Pass. Descend from the pass through wildlife rich landscapes - keep your eyes out for a lucky spot of the Andean Spectacled Bear. Finish the day at Pacaymayo campsite.
Total distance: 9km
Total walking time: 7 hours
Gradient: Hard

Day 3: Pacaymayo to Wiñayhuayna
Climb up the impressive Runkurakay Pass, passing numerous ruins along the way. Climb a steep flight of original Inca steps and pass two beautiful lakes, Yanacocha and Sayacmarca. Summit the third and last mountain pass before arriving at the ruins of Wiñayhuayna, where you will spend the third night.
Total distance: 15km
Total walking time: 9 hours
Gradient: Medium

Day 4: Sun Gate and Arrival at Machu Picchu
Leave camp before sunrise to arrive at the Sun Gate in time to watch the sun rise over the ruins of Machu Picchu, possibly the most magical moment of the trek. Descend into the ruins and spend several hours on a guided tour of the entire site before spending some free time to relax and absorb the ruins' magnificence.
Total distance: 3km
Total walking time: 1 hour
Gradient: Medium

View the comprehensive Four Day Inca Trail itinerary here.

The Inca Trail's enormous historical and archaeological significance has encouraged the authorities and tour operators to take a responsible attitude to conservation and the number of trekkers allowed onto the route at any given time is capped at 500 people per day, which includes guides and support staff.

Because of this, the Inca Trail can be booked up for several months, and it is generally recommended that trekkers aim to book their trekking permits as much as six months in advance.

If the Inca Trail is fully booked for your travel dates, don't despair. The Cusco and Sacred Valley region of Peru is full of equally spectacular routes, many of which benefit by being much quieter and more remote. Consider an alternative Inca Trail trek or, if you are hooked on the idea of arriving on foot to spectacular ruins, go for the Choquequirao trek, which boasts all the excitement of the Inca Trail, with far fewer crowds along the way.

The Inca Trail winds through varied and challenging mountainous landscapes, covering 39km over four days and scaling heights of up to 3,600 meters - well into the region where altitude sickness can begin. The days are long, starting around sunrise and ending at dusk, the trail can be wet and muddy during the rainy season and very hot during the summer.

However, people of all ages enjoy the Inca Trail experience each year. Trekkers do not need prior experience, or even to have done any long-distance walking at all. Guides are highly trained and well qualified, porters can help carry your baggage and the cooks will provide three full and energy rich meals per day plus a steady supply of snacks to keep you going.

Trekkers should ensure they are in reasonable shape and that they have no prior medical condition that may impede their ability to complete the trek. It is advisable to prepare for the trek with an exercise regime before leaving and the most important thing to bear in mind is the ALTITUDE: the Inca Trail covers altitudes to which most people are not accustomed. It is vital that trekkers acclimatize for at least two days in Cusco before attempting any rigorous physical activities.

It is important to arrive well prepared and properly equipped to ensure you are able to complete the Inca Trail comfortably and enjoyably. Recommended packing list includes:
- A quality sleeping bag. These are not usually included by trekking operators and a warm sleeping bag is essential. You can hire one cheaply in Cusco
- Comfortable, quality and well broken-in hiking boots, preferably with ankle support
- A hiking backpack, can also be hired in Cusco
- A water canteen (plastic disposable bottles are not allowed on the trail)
- Plenty of insect repellent and long sleeved shirts to keep biting insects away
- Waterproof jacket (and trousers if trekking during the rainy season)
- Sun protection, including sunscreen, glasses and a hat
- A flashlight with spare batteries
- Your camera with plenty of film or spare memory cards: you're guaranteed to fill them up on the way!

It is also a good idea to bring extra snacks, chocolate and candy for a sugar boost, the famous coca leaves which have been used by indigenous Peruvians for centuries to deal with the altitude and physical exhaustion and wooden walking sticks to support your knees on the long ascents and descents - metal tipped professional hiking poles are banned to protect the trail from unnecessary erosion.

Making a reservation for the Inca Trail requires some form of ID. Ideally, you should make your reservation with your passport number. If you're unable to do this, you can make a reservation with other personal ID, such as a driving license. However, a $12 fee will then be charged by the authorities to convert your reservation with your passport number before you are able to enter the Inca Trail.

The same fee applies if you book with an expired passport. $12 will be charged to change your document reservation to a current and valid passport.

The following resources all offer additional information and advice on the Inca Trail, and how to book a trek:

- A complete four day Inca Trail itinerary, included services and frequently asked questions
- A downloadable Machu Picchu travel guide
- A list of Peru trekking and adventure FAQs
- A complete list of the best Peru trekking options, including the Inca Trail and alternative Inca Trail treks