Inca Trail – on historic Inca paths to Machu Picchu

The Inca Trail at a glance

The Inca Trail near Machu Picchu is part of the historic Inca Road Network (Red de Caminos Inka). Within the archaeological park of Machu Picchu, this network of trails encompasses more than 300 kilometers and connects over 60 archaeological monuments.

For travelers, the multi-day classic route is particularly well-known. It begins at Piskacucho at kilometer 82 and leads via Wayllabamba and Wiñay Wayna to Machu Picchu. In addition, there are other officially authorized routes.

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Why the Inca Trail is special

This hike is more than just a trekking route. Ancient paved paths, stairs, terraces, and archaeological complexes form a historical connection across various altitude and vegetation zones.

The path leads through the high Andes and cloud forests. On several sections, Inca sites lie directly along the route. The access to Machu Picchu via Intipunku is one of the most famous sections.

All official routes

The Inca Road Network in the Historic Sanctuary of Machupicchu includes six officially guided tourist routes. They differ significantly in entry point, course, length, and destination.

Route 1 – Piskacucho to Machu Picchu

Piskacucho – Wayllabamba – Wiñay Wayna – Machu Picchu. This is the well-known classic version of the Inca Trail and leads over several days through the historical path network to Machu Picchu.

Route 2 – Qoriwayrachina to Machu Picchu

Qoriwayrachina – Wayllabamba – Wiñay Wayna – Machu Picchu. This route meets the further course toward Wiñay Wayna and Machu Picchu at Wayllabamba.

Route 3 – Soraypampa via Salkantay to Machu Picchu

Soraypampa – Salkantaypampa – Inkachiriaska – Pampacahuana – Paukarcancha – Wayllabamba – Wiñay Wayna – Machu Picchu. It connects the high mountain area at Salkantay with the historic path network to Machu Picchu.

Route 4 – Piskacucho via Pacaymayu Bajo

Piskacucho – Pacaymayu Bajo – Chachabamba – Wiñay Wayna – Machu Picchu. This variant connects Piskacucho with the section via Chachabamba and Wiñay Wayna.

Route 5 – Chachabamba to Machu Picchu

Chachabamba – Wiñay Wayna – Machu Picchu. This shorter variant leads via Chachabamba and Wiñay Wayna to the historical access to Machu Picchu.

Route 6 – Paukarcancha to Qoriwayrachina

Paukarcancha – Wayllabamba – Qoriwayrachina. Unlike routes 1 to 5, this officially guided route does not end in Machu Picchu, but connects several historic sections of the Inca path network.

Archaeological highlights

Significant stops include Wiñay Wayna, Chachabamba, and other Inca complexes along the historic paths. Terraces, steps, and walls show that the path was much more than a simple transportation link.

The entire path network was part of the much larger Qhapaq Ñan, which the Inca used to connect regions of their empire with one another.

Admission, permit, and reservation

The Inca Trail cannot be accessed spontaneously like an ordinary hiking trail. An authorized tour operator is required for your visit. Spaces are allocated via the official reservation system and are limited.

Specific entrance fees vary by route and visitor group. Since tariffs and access rules are subject to change, travelers should check the current prices in the official system before booking.

Opening hours and season

SERNANP states tourist access hours for the Inca Trail Network from 05:30 AM to 02:00 PM. The recommended travel time is between April and October. From November to March, there is significantly more rain.

In February, the Inca Trail is regularly closed for maintenance and conservation. Additionally, weather, landslides, or necessary repairs can cause short-term closures.

Current situation

Following heavy rainfall in August 2026, several routes were temporarily closed. Routes 1, 2, and 3 were reopened on August 26, 2026, following stabilization and cleaning work. Visitors should check the current notices from the cultural authorities and SERNANP immediately before traveling.

How demanding is the hike?

The classic route requires good fitness. Long ascents and descents, many stone steps, and large altitude differences make it physically demanding. Adequate acclimatization in Cusco or the Sacred Valley is advisable.

Conditions can change quickly. Rain, strong sunlight, and cold nights are part of the tour, depending on the season and altitude.

What belongs in your backpack?

• broken-in hiking boots
• rain and sun protection
• warm clothing for higher altitudes
• drinking water or a suitable hydration system
• personal medication
• small daypack
• valid passport and booking documents