The Inca Trail to Machu Picchu runs on the Qhapaq Ñan, the roads built by the Incas, a network of more than 23 thousand kilometers. Each year, approximately 25 thousand walkers from around the world travel the extraordinary 43 km of this cobblestone route, built by the Incas to reach the impregnable Inca city of Machu Picchu, deep in the high jungle and on top of a mountain.
The Inca Trail, with the Inca city of Machu Picchu as the final destination, is the best known and most popular route among international tourists who come to Peru. The total journey is approximately 43 km and takes four days, including a day of visit to Machu Picchu. The natural scenery within the Historic Sanctuary of Machu Picchu is impressive. With views of snow-capped mountains, cloud forests and a walk through the beautifully preserved ruins, it is an unforgettable experience.
The total distance of the road is approximately 39.6 km and starts at Km. 82 in the place called Pisqacucho. To start the road you should cross a bridge, then go to the left side through a eucalyptus orchard and start the day calmly.
Almost immediately you will find the archaeological complexes of Q'ente, Pulpituyoc, Kusichaca and Patallacta. From that last point you will continue along the left bank of the Kusichaca River in the area with the same name where you will not only see the bridge but also find tombs, aqueducts, terraces, roads and a canyon. You will continue until you reach the small town of Wayllabamba and Inca aqueducts. It takes around 4 hours to reach 9 km from this point. One will camp there the first night.
The second day is more difficult, because the walker will have to climb up to 4,200 meters, crossing the Warmiwañusqa pass, the first and the highest. If you suffer from altitude sickness it is best not to stop or descend quickly to the valley of the Pacaymayu river, where you can camp. This place is 7 km away and it is approximately 8 hours away.
The third day is the longest but the most interesting. You will be ready to visit the most impressive complexes like Runkuraqay, the second step at 3,800 meters above sea level, its complex mocked with niches that perhaps were a small place to rest, guard posts and places dedicated to worship after crossing the Second step you descend to Yanacocha (The Black Lagoon) to then climb a path with stone steps until you reach another group of buildings which attract the attention of visitors. This point is called Sayaqmarka a pre-Hispanic complex with narrow streets, buildings erected on different levels; sanctuaries, patios, canals and an exterior protection wall. At the top of the buttresses one can observe many constructions which lead to suppose that once it was a temple and an astronomical observatory, which had a permanent supply of water and excellent food stores.
Sayaqmarka is a place full of mystery and charm the approximate distance to Runkuraqay is 5 Km. Which takes 2 hours. This complex extends to 3,600 meters above sea level. There is an excellent path and a tunnel through this complex. We recommend camping near the ruins of Phuyupatamarca or 3 km further on in the visitor center of Wiñay Wayna, where one can buy food and drinks or use hygienic services. The ruins of Phuyupatamarca are better preserved than we have seen before now.
On the fourth day, which starts around 5:00 A.M., the walker arrives at Machu Picchu around 7:00 A.M. After 8 km of hiking through the jungle. Follow the designated route and drink some water at the Wiñay Wayna Visitor Center. The trail is clearly marked but try to avoid getting too close to the edge of the cliff.
It is forbidden to camp in Inti punku. You will leave your equipment at the control gate and enjoy the most important monument of this part of the continent. You will have time to visit Machu Picchu until noon. Check the train schedule to return to Cusco.
If you plan to stay in the town of Machu Picchu (also called "Aguas Calientes") The distance from the station to the bridge ruins to Machu Picchu is 2 km... This takes about 20 minutes down a narrow path, which goes parallel to the line iron
Important note: If you want to the Inca Trail tours, we recommend you to book in advance. there are a limited available every day.
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