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 historical Inca Road Network. Within the archaeological park of Machu Picchu, this trail system covers more than 300 kilometers and connects over 60 archaeological monuments.

For travelers, the multi-day classic route is best 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

The hike is not just a trekking route. Ancient paved paths, stairs, terraces, and archaeological sites form a historical link through different 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 entrance to Machu Picchu via Intipunku is one of the most famous sections.

All official routes

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

Route 1 – Piskacucho to Machu Picchu

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

Route 2 – Qoriwayrachina to Machu Picchu

Qoriwayrachina – Wayllabamba – Wiñay Wayna – Machu Picchu. This route meets the rest of the 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 historical trail 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 entrance to Machu Picchu.

Route 6 – Paukarcancha to Qoriwayrachina

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

Archaeological highlights

Important stops include Wiñay Wayna, Chachabamba, and other Inca sites along the historical paths. Terraces, steps, and walls show that the path was far more than a simple transit route.

The entire trail network was part of the much larger Qhapaq Ñan, with which the Incas connected regions of their empire with one another.

Admission, permits, and reservations

The Inca Trail cannot be accessed spontaneously like a normal hiking trail. An authorized tour operator is required for the visit. Places are allocated through the official reservation system and are limited.

The specific entrance fees vary according to the route and visitor group. Since tariffs and access rules can change, travelers should check current prices in the official system before booking.

Opening hours and season

SERNANP specifies tourist access times for the Inca Trail network from 05:30 am to 02:00 pm. The recommended travel time is between April and October. Significantly more rain falls from November to March.

In February, the Inca Trail is regularly closed for maintenance and preservation. Weather, landslides, or necessary repairs may also 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, after securing and cleaning work. Visitors should check the current notices from the cultural authority 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 differences in altitude 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 the 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