Step by Step: Incredible Facts About the Inca Trail’s Ancient Path to Machu Picchu (2024)

From the mesmerising ruins to the breathtaking landscapes, discover the hidden stories and captivating details that make the Inca Trail a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Embark on a virtual journey through time as we unveil intriguing facts about the Inca Trail, offering a deep dive into the historical, cultural, and natural wonders that line this ancient path.

During the festive season of Christmas and New Year, my two friends and I embarked on the awe-inspiring Inca Trail, marking it as one of the most memorable experiences of the past few years. The journey was not only a celebration of the holidays but a personal journey, particularly after enduring a challenging four-day hike amidst the persistent rain. (Yes, we discovered firsthand that December is the rainy season and perhaps not the most popular time for trekking.) Despite the weather hurdles, the adventure unfolded as a remarkable achievement, etching itself into the highlight reel of our collective experiences.

This post serves as a comprehensive guide for those considering the 4-day, 3-night Inca Trail hike to the majestic Machu Picchu. From detailed itineraries to essential tips garnered from our own rainy season escapade, we aim to equip fellow adventurers with the knowledge and insights needed to navigate this iconic trail successfully. Join us as we recount the highs and lows, share practical advice, and capture the essence of this extraordinary journey through the heart of the Inca Empire.

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About Machu Picchu

The UNESCO World Heritage site Machu Picchu is a citadel for Incas and is one of the seven wonders of the world. At an altitude of 2430 metres, Machu Picchu is also known as the Lost City of the Incas.

Built in the 15th century, Machu Picchu has three primary structures:

• The Temple of the Sun,
• Room of the Three Windows and
• Intihuatana (the ritual stone).

Also read | I was in Peru for 7 days and most of my days were spent in Cusco.

Machu means old or an old person and Picchu means pyramid and the name Machu Picchu was interpreted as an old mountain in the Quechua language.

If you are short on time or do not want to hike the Inca trail, that is absolutely fine. You can still go see the magnificent Machu Picchu as a one day trip. There are a number of options that you can do in order to visit Machu Picchu in one day.

What is the Inca trail?

The Inca Trail serves as the gateway to the ancient marvel of Machu Picchu, weaving through a captivating tapestry of Inca ruins, breathtaking mountains, and local villages. The duration of the hike varies, spanning from 2 to 7 days, with the standard being a 4-day, 3-night trek, a choice embraced by my friends and me.

Opting for a December hike, I encountered consistent rain throughout the trail, making it a less-than-ideal season for extended hikes. For future adventurers, I recommend targeting the dry seasons between May and October for optimal trekking conditions. It’s worth noting that these months are in high demand, necessitating strategic planning and early reservations to secure a spot on this iconic trail.

Navigating the Inca Trail during its prime dry seasons enhances the overall experience, allowing for unhindered exploration of the historical and natural wonders en-route to Machu Picchu. As you plan your journey, keep in mind the seasonal nuances and seize the opportunity to immerse yourself in the awe-inspiring landscapes and cultural treasures that define this renowned hiking trail.

Why is Inca Trail so famous and one of the best things to do in Peru?

The Inca Trail stands as an iconic and renowned path, revered for its historical significance as a religious route traced by the Incas to reach Machu Picchu in the 15th century. This trail, echoing with the footsteps of ancient pilgrims, has become a symbol of cultural and spiritual importance.

As a preparation for the Inca Trail and the altitude, you can first hike the Rainbow Mountain so your body gets acclimatised for the higher altitude.

Each day of the trek unfolds against the backdrop of captivating Inca ruins, imbuing the journey with a profound historical resonance. These archaeological remnants, scattered along the trail, serve as silent witnesses to the rich tapestry of Inca civilisation, offering modern-day hikers a unique opportunity to traverse through living history.

The Inca Trail, beyond its physical challenges and scenic splendors, is a pilgrimage through time, a reconnection with the cultural and religious heritage of the Incas. As each day’s hike unveils new archaeological wonders, trekkers are not just navigating landscapes; they are traversing the ancient footsteps of a civilization that once held Machu Picchu as a sacred destination, making the Inca Trail an extraordinary blend of adventure and historical exploration.

Facts About The Inca Trail

Prior knowledge and preparation are key prerequisites for any outdoor or adventurous pursuit. As I geared up for the Inca Trail, I found myself grappling with several questions, and it became evident that understanding a few essential aspects beforehand significantly enhances the overall experience. These questions included:

1. How many kilometres is the hike in total? About 44 kilometres. These kilometres are spread across 4 days.
2. Is it a hard hike? Yes, I will not lie, days 2 and 3 were very hard for me. Day 2 especially was the hardest.
3. How fit should I be? You should be reasonably fit to do this hike. It is not about the kilometres but more about the altitude we are dealing with. And any hiker can be hit by Acute Mountaineering Sickness (AMS).
4. What to pack for Inca trail? Refer the below section Inca trail – packing list. The lighter the backpack, the better it is during the hike as you need to carry the backpack. There are porters that you can hire who will carry your backpacks for you.
5. What should I wear? Anything that is comfortable for hikes. Layering up with clothes is the best. Depending on the temperature, you can remove or add layers.
6. What is Acute Mountaineering Sickness (AMS)? Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS) is a condition that can affect individuals who ascend to high altitudes, typically above 2,500 meters (8,200 feet), at a rapid pace without giving the body enough time to acclimatise. This phenomenon is commonly experienced by mountaineers, hikers, and travelers venturing into elevated terrains. AMS is caused by the decreased availability of oxygen at higher altitudes, leading to various physiological responses in the body.
7. What are the symptoms of AMS? The symptoms of AMS can range from mild to severe and often include headache, nausea, dizziness, fatigue, and difficulty sleeping. In severe cases, it can progress to more serious conditions like High Altitude Pulmonary Edema (HAPE) or High Altitude Cerebral Edema (HACE), which can be life-threatening and require immediate medical attention.
8. How do I manage altitude sickness? Slight headache is common but if you experience anything serious, then it is better to head straight down to lower altitudes and seek immediate medical help. Read the story of my porter who suffered from AMS during the Everest Base Camp (EBC) hike. Preventing AMS involves gradual acclimatization, staying hydrated, and allowing the body time to adjust to higher elevations. Medications such as acetazolamide may also be prescribed to alleviate symptoms and facilitate acclimatization. I started taking a tablet Diamox (prescribed by my travel doctor) to deal with the altitudes.
9. How much money should I carry during the hike? About 500 Sols and carry cash as no cards are accepted anywhere during the trail.
10. Should I carry anything else? Two most important things that we carried were the hiking poles and headlamps.

Inca Trail Packing List

Some important things to keep in mind while deciding on the stuff that you need for Inca Trail are:

1. Remember to carry a daypack separate to your backpack. This daypack is the bag that you will carry throughout the hike, which means that having it light is the best thing you can do for yourself.
2. Having said that it is also important to carry the stuff which is absolutely required during the trail.
3. The things that you carry must cater to the weather conditions and you need to be prepared to handle the worse.

You definitely need a good quality daypack and a backpack on this trail. For a variety of high-quality backpacks, refer Top 16 Best Hiking Backpacks.

So here is the packing list:

1. Passport and a zip lock bag to protect the passport.
2. Hiking shirts and pants (I would recommend two of each, so if one wears out there is a backup).
3. Underwear (a clean one for each day + an extra pair).
4. Thermal top and pant (one pair).
5. Socks – It is advisable to wear two pairs of socks each time to avoid blisters on the feet (two clean ones for each day + two extra pairs).
6. Poncho/Rain gear. This is a must as it was continuously raining when I hiked the Inca Trail.
7. Light Jacket.
8. Hiking shoes – Very important and ensure you have used the shoes and are comfortable before going on the Inca trail.
9. Flip-flops to wear while you are at the camps.
10. Few disposable bags.
11. Sleeping bag – As I had hired the sleeping bag and the trekking poles, so I did not pack them from home.
12. Sleeping pillow.
13. Toiletries:
    • Toilet paper.
    • Wet wipes.
    • Deodorant.
    • Eco-friendly Soap.
    • Toothpaste.
    • Toothbrush/tongue cleaner.
    • Chapstick.
    • Sunscreen.
    • Tweezer and pocket mirror.
    • Hand sanitizer.
    • Bug repellent.
    • Safety pins.
14. Reusable water bottle.
15. Trail snacks – Ensure you carry sufficient chocolates, dry fruits, and some eateries to munch on.
16. First aid kit and Personal medication.
17. Flashlight with extra batteries.
18. Camera, batteries, and memory cards.
19. Phone.
20. Phone charger or a solar power bank.
21. Travel adapter.
22. Cash.
23. Cap and a beanie.
24. Sunglasses.
25. Hand towel.
26. Good book.
27. Gloves.
28. Insurance.
29. Earplugs.

Note: Ensure you check the expiry date before using any of the medicines. And ensure you don’t carry the scissors and tweezers with the first aid kit if you wish to take the kit as a carry on baggage. The scissors and tweezers must be in the check-in baggage.

Inca Trail Tour Operator

There are many tour operators that take hikers on an Inca trail adventure. I went with the Inca Trail Reservations and I booked them through Viator website. The guide who came with us was very good and knowledgeable. He gave us a lot of information on the trail and during our dinner.

• Inca Trail Reservations.
• Telephone: 084-255305/247293.
• Mobile: 984 631 844.
• Address: Choqechaka 229-B, Cusco 08000, Peru.

An important consideration for Inca Trail trekkers is the awareness that the food provided during the journey may lack freshness. This stems from the logistical challenge of accessibility. Porters and mules, responsible for transporting provisions throughout the entire four-day trek, face constraints that impact the immediate freshness of certain items, particularly meat, as each day unfolds. The nature of the trail, with its rugged terrain and limited infrastructure, necessitates careful planning in terms of food preservation.

While the culinary offerings aim to cater to the nutritional needs of trekkers, the inherent constraints of the trail’s logistics should be taken into account. Understanding this aspect beforehand enables hikers to better appreciate the intricacies of the journey and make informed choices, such as supplementing meals with energy-packed snacks. Despite the freshness challenge, the Inca Trail remains a captivating adventure, offering a unique blend of historical exploration and natural beauty that outweighs the limitations posed by the logistics of sustaining a trek through this ancient and revered terrain.

How much did the Inca Trail cost?

Enclosed are the comprehensive breakdowns of our expenses for the Inca Trail. It is important to note that the overall tour cost is subject to variation based on the tour agency selected and the specific duration of the trek. The detailed expenses provided here specifically pertain to the 4-day and 3-night Inca Trail itinerary.

The total expenditure outlined encompasses various elements such as permit fees, transportation, accommodation, meals, and any additional costs incurred during the trek. It’s crucial to acknowledge that these costs serve as a reference point and may fluctuate based on individual preferences, the chosen tour operator, and the overall logistics of the expedition.

As prospective trekkers plan their Inca Trail adventure, it is advisable to conduct thorough research on different tour agencies, compare their offerings, and consider the specific needs of their journey. Flexibility in budgeting is recommended, allowing for potential adjustments based on personal preferences and the desired level of comfort during this remarkable expedition to Machu Picchu.

Tour Cost

• Inca Trail 4 days/3 nights – USD 595.00 per person.
• Sleeping bag – USD 25.00 per person.
• Porter (up to 7.5 kilograms) – USD 65.00 per person.
• Total Cost for the tour = USD 685.00 per person.

Preps

• Snacks – need basis.
• Water bottles (3 litres) – 30 Sols.
• First aid kit – AUD 60 (USD 50).

On the hike

• Use of toilets – 1 Sol per person for single-time use.
• Hot shower (only available at first base camp) – 10 Sols per person for single-time use.
• Water bottle – 5 Sols per bottle (the price of the water bottle increases as and when the altitude increases during the hike).

Tips and Gratuities

Tipping is customary on the final day of the hike, and the amount is not predetermined; it varies based on the quality of service and the group size. It’s recommended to collaborate with fellow hikers to collectively decide on an appropriate tip. The figures provided in our breakdown below are reflective of our personal contributions during the trek and serve as a reference point. Keep in mind that tipping is a subjective matter, and individuals should consider the effort and dedication of the trekking staff when determining the final amount. Engaging in open discussions with fellow hikers facilitates a fair consensus, ensuring that the tip reflects both appreciation for the service received and the collective agreement among the trekking companions.

• Porter – 30 Sols per person.
• Cook – 50 Sols per person.
• Guide – 100 Sols per person.

4 Days 3 Nights Inca Trail Hiking Itinerary

Previous day of the hike

The tour company conducted a briefing session, during which the guide provided an insightful overview of the upcoming hike. This informative session offered a preview of what to anticipate during the trek, ensuring that participants were well-prepared for the journey ahead.

Additionally, the tour company distributed sleeping bags to each participant, a crucial component to be carried throughout the hike. This proactive measure not only facilitated transparency about the essentials but also equipped each trekker with the necessary gear for a comfortable and well-prepared adventure along the Inca Trail. The combination of the briefing session and the provision of essential equipment underscored the tour company’s commitment to ensuring a seamless and enjoyable experience for all participants.

Day 1 – Cusco to Wayllabamba via Piscacucho

Our guide and bus driver fetched us promptly at 5:30 AM, embarking on a two-hour journey to our first stop, the picturesque Ollantaytambo, where we indulged in a delightful breakfast. Continuing our adventure, we traversed for an additional 30 minutes until reaching the starting point of our hike at Piscacucho.

The well-planned itinerary, punctual pickups, and strategic breaks not only ensured a seamless start to our journey but also allowed us to savor the beauty of Ollantaytambo, a charming prelude to the forthcoming Inca Trail expedition. The careful orchestration of transportation and breaks reflected the tour company’s commitment to a well-organized and enjoyable experience from the very beginning of our trek.

Piscacucho hosts a crucial checkpoint where hikers register and submit their passports for verification. After the necessary checks were completed, our trek officially commenced at 10:45 AM. This mandatory registration ensures the safety and accountability of all hikers on the Inca Trail, marking the commencement of our journey through the breathtaking landscapes and historic wonders that awaited us along the ancient path to Machu Picchu.

The initial day of our trek unfolded at a leisurely pace, allowing each participant to proceed at their preferred speed. As the sun began its descent, we reached our first night’s abode, Wayllabamba, at 5:10 PM.

At this point, each group was allocated their designated resting area, resembling the backyard of a villager’s house. Our assigned spot featured well-maintained facilities, including convenient toilets. For those seeking a touch of luxury, hot showers were available for an additional fee, providing a refreshing respite after a day of exploration.

The communal yet distinct resting areas not only reflected the unique charm of the local villages but also offered a comfortable haven for trekkers to rejuvenate and prepare for the ensuing days of the Inca Trail adventure.

Statistics

• Starting point of the hike: Piscacucho with an altitude of 9000 feet (2750 meters).
• Total kilometers = 11 kilometers.
• Base camp: Wayllabamba with an altitude of 9840 feet (3000 meters).
• Grade of hike: Moderate.

The ruins that we passed during the hike:

• Pulpituyuq.
• Llaqtapata.

Day 2 – Wayllabamba to Pacaymayu via Warmiwanuscca

At 5:30 AM, our day began with the comforting aroma of Coca leaves tea, a warming indulgence after enduring a cold and rainy night. A sumptuous breakfast followed at 6:45 AM. During this time, the diligent porters efficiently dismantled our tents and prepared to shoulder the backpacks.

Our group, admittedly running a bit behind schedule, commenced our hike at 7:30 AM, lagging behind other groups who had set out an hour earlier. Despite the delayed start, the invigorating tea and hearty breakfast set a positive tone for the day, fueling us for the challenges and wonders that awaited along the captivating Inca Trail.

• Note: There is no checkpoint at Wayllabamba.

The views along the journey were nothing short of spectacular, with the most challenging leg encountered on day 2 of the Inca Trail. The ascent was notably steep, and the hike seemed unending. Scaling to the pinnacle at Warmiwanuscca marked a triumph as we embraced the breathtaking views from the highest point.

However, the gratification was met with a demanding descent to our next base camp at Pacaymayu. This stretch of the trail not only tested our physical endurance but also rewarded us with awe-inspiring landscapes. The arduous climb and descent on this day added a sense of accomplishment, underscoring the varied terrains and challenges that make the Inca Trail a truly transformative expedition.

Our arrival at the Pacaymayu base camp was registered at 5:45 PM. This shared resting spot catered to all hikers, irrespective of their trekking agencies, fostering a shared experience among diverse groups. The facilities included shared toilets, a collective space utilized by participants from various treks. This common arrangement not only facilitated interaction among trekkers but also emphasized the sense of camaraderie prevalent along the Inca Trail. The Pacaymayu base camp, with its inclusive amenities, provided a unique setting for hikers to unwind, share stories, and forge connections with fellow adventurers, further enhancing the collective spirit of the Inca Trail journey.

Statistics

• Starting point of the hike: Wayllabamba with an altitude of 9840 feet (3000 metres).
• Total kilometers = 9 kilometers.
• Highest point: Warmiwanuscca with an altitude of 13776 feet (4200 meters).
• Base camp: Pacaymayu with an altitude of 11155 feet (3400 meters).
• Grade of hike: Very hard.

The ruins that we passed during the hike:

• <None>.

Day 3 – Pacaymayu to Intipata

Daybreak on another challenging day commenced with a 5:30 AM wake-up call accompanied by the invigorating aroma of Coca leaves tea. Breakfast was promptly served at 7:00 AM, fueling us for the day’s endeavors. Our journey recommenced at 7:30 AM as we departed from the Pacaymayu base camp.

• Note: There is no checkpoint at Pacaymayu base camp as well.

The day unfolded with a mixture of anticipation and determination, each step ingrained with the spirit of exploration and resilience. The early morning routine, marked by the herbal infusion and hearty breakfast, set a positive tone for the forthcoming challenges along the Inca Trail, as we embraced the physical and mental fortitude required for the continuing trek through the captivating landscapes.

Arriving at the Intipata base camp at 6:30 PM marked the culmination of our day’s trek. The communal ethos persisted as this resting spot accommodated all trekkers with shared facilities, including toilets accessible to participants from various groups.

The uniqueness of our experience was amplified by the fact that our third day coincided with New Year’s Eve. While celebrations reverberated worldwide, our exhaustion from the day’s hike led us to retire early, drifting off to sleep at 9:30 PM. The contrast between our tranquil night in the heart of the Andes and the global festivities created a memorable juxtaposition. The shared facilities at Intipata not only symbolized the interconnectedness of the Inca Trail experience but also set the stage for a restful night, preparing us for the final leg of our journey to Machu Picchu.

Statistics

• Starting point of the hike: Pacaymayu with an altitude of 11155 feet (3400 meters).
• Total kilometers = 16 kilometers.
• Base camp: Intipata with an altitude of 8692 feet (2650 meters).
• Grade of hike: Hard.

The ruins that we passed during the hike:

• Runkuraqay.
• Sayacmarca.
• Winaywayna.
• Phuyupatamarca.

Day 4 – Intipata to Machu Picchu

As the porters bid us farewell to return to Cusco, our final day on the Inca Trail commenced with a wake-up call at 3:30 AM. In preparation for the last leg of our journey, we were provided with packed snacks, and we gathered near the checkpoint a few meters from our campsite. At 5:30 AM, the checkpoint opened, initiating our final registration process.

With the bulk of the Inca Trail behind us, only a few hours of hiking remained before reaching the pinnacle: Machu Picchu. The culmination of our efforts materialized at 8:30 AM, an exhilarating moment shared by the entire group. The camaraderie forged with fellow hikers, whom we had met and interacted with along the trail, added an emotional layer to the achievement.

Cheering and motivating each other during the arduous hikes, we arrived at Machu Picchu as a united front. The shared triumph was not just a physical accomplishment but a testament to individual stories and diverse motivations that fueled each participant through the challenging four-day trek. As emotions ran high, a profound sense of satisfaction enveloped us, acknowledging that the journey had been more than a physical feat, it was a collective and emotional triumph that etched the Inca Trail experience deep into our memories.

Statistics

• Starting point of the hike: Intipata with an altitude of 8692 feet (2650 meters).
• Total kilometers = 6 kilometers.
• Base camp: Machu Picchu with an altitude of 7875 feet (2400 meters).
• Grade of hike: Moderate.

The ruins that we passed during the hike:

• Machu Picchu.

Hiking Route and Elevations

Below graph provides the snapshot of the route and elevations of Inca Trail:

Crew that accompanied on the trail

• 1 Guide
• 3 Porters
• 1 Cook
• 3 hikers (us)

Food

Throughout the three-night journey, a dedicated cook accompanied the porters, ensuring a continuous supply of delectable meals that never repeated. The culinary experience on the Inca Trail was a testament to the skill and creativity of our cook. Varied and flavorful, each meal presented a unique blend of tastes and textures, showcasing the diversity of ingredients even in the remote mountainous terrain.

Commencing with the iconic Coca leaves tea, our culinary escapade unfolded with a sequence of snacks and soup, followed by a hearty main course, and occasionally a dessert to conclude the feast. The meticulous planning and thoughtful preparation demonstrated the cook’s commitment to elevating our trekking experience through culinary delights.

As a thoughtful touch, each day concluded with Moonya leaves tea, a soothing infusion that provided a moment of reflection and relaxation after the day’s exertions. The cook’s expertise not only fueled our physical journey but added a delightful gastronomic dimension to the overall Inca Trail adventure, leaving us with a profound appreciation for the culinary artistry that accompanied us on this memorable expedition.

Accommodation on the Trail

The lodging arrangements at every base camp consisted of tents, providing a cozy and immersive experience amidst the natural surroundings. Conveniently located toilets within the camping vicinity offered functional facilities, ensuring basic hygiene for trekkers. It’s noteworthy that the ladies’ toilets were not of the Western style but rather the squatting variety, adding an element of cultural authenticity to the accommodations. While not the conventional toilets, they proved decent and serviceable.

An essential tip for trekkers is to carry toilet rolls, as these are not typically provided in such remote camping areas. This small but crucial item enhances the overall comfort and convenience during bathroom breaks, underscoring the importance of thoughtful preparation for the unique conditions of the Inca Trail. The combination of tent accommodations and functional facilities contributed to the immersive nature of the trek, providing a balance between the comforts of basic amenities and the rugged charm of the Andean wilderness.

Lessons learned

• Before embarking on the hike, it’s crucial to weigh your backpack, including the sleeping bag and sleeping mat. Porters are allocated a maximum weight of 7.5 kilograms, encompassing the sleeping bag (approximately 3 kilograms) and the mat (around 1 kilogram), provided by the tour operator.
• Be well-prepared with ample water and snacks to last the four-day trek. Consider carrying water purifiers if you prefer not to carry water bottles, ensuring a sustainable water source from available streams.
• Carry sufficient cash, including at least 500 Sols, covering expenses and tips during the journey.
• December may not be an optimal time for the hike, given the persistent rainfall during the rainy season, as experienced over three days.
• For convenience during the hike, pack a small bag with snacks, water, sunscreen, and essentials. Remember that porters won’t accompany you directly, limiting access to your bag during the trek. This thoughtful preparation ensures a smoother and more enjoyable experience on the Inca Trail.

Closing Notes

Embarking on the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu has undeniably stood out as one of the most exhilarating adventures I’ve ever undertaken. The journey unfolded like a captivating story, with each step revealing the magic of the trail, the warmth of the people, and the breathtaking landscapes that surrounded us. The profound sense of accomplishment upon reaching Machu Picchu was not just about conquering the physical challenges but also about immersing myself in the rich tapestry of history and nature.

The memories forged along this ancient path are etched in my heart, creating a tapestry of experiences that I will carry with me throughout my life. From the camaraderie with fellow hikers to the inspiring vistas that unfolded with every turn, the Inca Trail encapsulated the essence of adventure, discovery, and personal triumph. The trail not only tested my endurance but also enriched my spirit with a deep appreciation for the wonders of the Andean landscape.

As I reflect on this remarkable journey, I am filled with gratitude for the privilege of traversing this historic route and witnessing the awe-inspiring beauty that Machu Picchu offers. These memories, woven into the fabric of my life, will forever serve as a reminder of the resilience, camaraderie, and sheer joy that accompanies conquering challenges and embracing the extraordinary. The Inca Trail has left an indelible mark on my soul, and its magic will continue to resonate, inspiring me to seek new adventures and relish the enchantment that exploration brings.

If you have any more questions about the trail, feel free to send me an email on info@solopassport.com or solopassport@gmail.com.

Also read

• For a detailed guide on visiting only Machu Picchu, read ‘Guide to visiting Machu Picchu‘.
• Peru Travel diaries.