The Inca Trail is a world-famous trekking route in Peru that leads through the Andes Mountains. The trail was built by the Incas more than 500 years ago and was used as a pilgrimage route to reach the ancient city of Machu Picchu. The trek is approximately 43 kilometers (26 miles) long and takes around 4 days to complete.
The trail passes through diverse ecosystems, including high altitude Andean mountains, cloud forests, and subtropical jungle. Along the way, trekkers encounter stunning scenery, diverse flora and fauna, and many archaeological sites. Some of the highlights of the trail include the Inca ruins of Wiñay Wayna, the Sun Gate (Inti Punku), and of course, the iconic Machu Picchu.
The Inca Trail is a physically challenging trek with steep ascents and descents. Trekkers need to be well-prepared and have good physical fitness to undertake the journey. The Peruvian government regulates the trek, and permits are required to hike the trail. This helps to protect the trail and its surroundings. Due to the popularity of the trek, permits can be limited, so it’s important to book in advance with a reputable tour operator.
Cusco Hotel Transfer
06:00 AM.
The Inca Trail 4D/3N is a physically challenging and rewarding trek that covers approximately 43 kilometers (26 miles) and takes about 4 days to complete. Along the way, trekkers can expect to encounter diverse ecosystems, stunning scenery, and many Inca ruins.
The trek culminates in a visit to the iconic Machu Picchu, one of the world’s most famous archaeological sites. However, trekkers should also expect long days of hiking, with steep ascents and descents, and variable weather conditions.
To undertake the journey, trekkers need to be well-prepared, have good physical fitness, and obtain necessary permits from the Peruvian government.
At the start of the Inca Trail 4-day trek, we began our journey early in the morning at 6:00 am. We hiked along the Urubamba River towards our first campsite at Wayllabamba. The trail covers a distance of approximately 12 km (7.5 miles) and takes about 5 to 6 hours to complete.
As we hiked, we passed through many different ecosystems, including high altitude Andean mountains, cloud forests, and subtropical jungles. We also encountered several Inca ruins along the way, such as the ruins of Llactapata. Our guide provided us with interesting historical and cultural information about the sites we visited.
After a full day of hiking, we finally arrived at our first campsite at Wayllabamba. Here, we set up our tents, rested, and enjoyed a hot meal prepared by our trekking crew. We also had some time to explore the surrounding area before settling down for the night. The first day of the Inca Trail is a challenging but exciting start to an unforgettable trekking experience.
On the second day of the Inca Trail 4-day trek, we started our hike early in the morning after breakfast. The trail covers a distance of approximately 11 km (6.8 miles) and takes about 6 to 7 hours to complete. The day’s route is challenging, as we hiked up steep inclines towards Dead Woman’s Pass.
As we ascended towards Dead Woman’s Pass, we crossed through a stunning high altitude Andean landscape, with breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. The ascent is challenging, with an elevation gain of approximately 1,200 meters (3,937 feet) and a peak altitude of 4,200 meters (13,779 feet).
After reaching the summit of Dead Woman’s Pass, we descended towards the second campsite at Pacaymayo. This descent is steep and challenging, so we took our time to ensure our safety. Once we arrived at the campsite, we set up our tents, rested, and enjoyed a hot meal prepared by our trekking crew. The second day of the Inca Trail is physically demanding but offers stunning views and a true sense of accomplishment upon reaching the summit.
On the third day of the Inca Trail 4-day trek, we woke up early at our campsite in Pacaymayo and had breakfast before starting our hike towards the third campsite at Wiñay Wayna. The trail covers a distance of approximately 16 km (9.9 miles) and takes about 8 to 9 hours to complete.
We hiked through diverse landscapes, including cloud forests and subtropical jungles, and passed through several Inca ruins, including Runkurakay and Sayacmarca. Our guide shared fascinating insights about the history and significance of these ruins.
As we approached Wiñay Wayna, we climbed a series of steep steps and terraces, which offered stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. Finally, we arrived at our third and final campsite, where we set up our tents and rested before exploring the nearby ruins of Wiñay Wayna. In the evening, we enjoyed a farewell dinner with our trekking crew, reflecting on the amazing journey we had experienced over the past three days. The third day of the Inca Trail offers a diverse range of landscapes and ruins, making it a memorable and fascinating experience.
At the start of the final day of the Inca Trail 4-day trek, we woke up early and had breakfast before setting off towards Machu Picchu. We hiked towards the famous Sun Gate, which offers a breathtaking view of the ancient city of Machu Picchu. The trail covers a distance of approximately 8.9 km (5.5 miles) and has a steep ascent of 300 meters (984 feet).
After reaching the Sun Gate, we descended towards Machu Picchu, which took us approximately 1 hour. Once we arrived at the ruins, our guide gave us a guided tour, where we learned about the history and significance of this ancient city. We explored the main plaza, the Temple of the Sun, the Temple of the Three Windows, and many other structures within the ruins.
After the tour, we had some free time to explore the ruins on our own before taking the bus down to Aguas Calientes, where we had lunch before returning to Cusco by train and bus. The Inca Trail 4-day trek is a challenging but rewarding experience, and the final day’s visit to Machu Picchu is a highlight that makes the entire journey worthwhile.
Settling on a guided tour of the city turned out to be a remarkable choice. The tour guide’s extensive knowledge about the city’s history and culture made the experience truly captivating.
