The world's most famous trek
Walk the original stone path the Incas built six centuries ago and arrive at the Sun Gate above Machu Picchu at first light. Choose the classic 4-day trek, the short 2-day hike, or the 1-day route — all with permits secured by our Cusco office.
A journey, not just a hike
More than 40,000 kilometres of royal Inca roads once laced the Andes from Colombia to Chile. Of all of them, the four-day path to Machu Picchu is the crown jewel — a route of cloud forest, glacier-fed streams, hand-cut stone stairways and ruins that no other trek on earth can match.
You will cross high mountain passes, sleep beneath a blanket of southern stars, and walk through Inca sites most visitors never see — Llactapata, Runkurakay, Sayacmarca, Phuyupatamarca and the cliff-edge terraces of Wiñay Wayna — before the trail finally delivers you to the Sun Gate (Inti Punku) for your first, breathtaking view of Machu Picchu at sunrise.
It is more than a trek. It is a pilgrimage along the living spine of an empire — and, for most who walk it, the highlight of a lifetime of travel.
Choose your route
From the full four-day pilgrimage to a single glorious day — every option ends at Machu Picchu.
Best sellerThe complete pilgrimage. Camp in the Andes, cross Dead Woman's Pass, and reach the Sun Gate at sunrise — exactly as the Incas intended.
Short on timeWalk the most scenic stretch of the original trail through Wiñay Wayna, reach the Sun Gate at dusk, and tour Machu Picchu fresh the next morning.
No campingA single, glorious day on the Inca path — no camping, no early starts. Train to km 104, hike to Machu Picchu through the Sun Gate, and return by evening.
PrivateThe Classic Inca Trail with your own private guide, chef and team. Upgraded tents, flexible pace and a fully bespoke experience for couples, families or groups.
Our best seller
Four unforgettable days on the original stone path, ending at the Sun Gate above Machu Picchu — exactly as the Incas walked it centuries ago. Hover each day to preview your journey.
We collect you from your hotel and drive to Km 82 (Piscacucho). After crossing the Vilcanota River we follow a gentle valley past the hillside ruins of Llactapata to our first camp at Wayllabamba.
A life-changing experience
The Inca Trail is one of the most famous treks on earth — and the finest route in South America. It leads to one of the New Wonders of the World, Machu Picchu, following the original stone path the Incas laid hundreds of years ago.
Along the way you'll discover archaeological sites reachable only on foot, guided by an expert who brings Andean history to life. You'll share the trail with travelers from across the globe, make new friends, and earn every step. It's tough in parts — but the reward is unforgettable.
We are the operator, not a reseller. A Cusco-based, MINCETUR-licensed company means fair prices, faster answers and no middleman between you and your adventure.
Our official Inca Trail guides are born in the region and chosen for deep historical knowledge, fluent English and a genuine passion for sharing their homeland.
Fresh, hearty Peruvian cuisine cooked on the trail by our own chefs — generous portions, vegetarian and special diets always welcome, even at 4,000 metres.
We pay porters above the legal minimum, carry out everything we carry in, and reinvest in the Andean communities and trails we are privileged to walk.
Intimate departures of like-minded solo travelers, couples and friends — never crowded, always personal, united by a love of authentic adventure.
Quality service
We are committed to world-class trekking experiences that go far above and beyond the mass-produced tours so common today.
This trip exceeded every expectation. Worth every single penny — the guide, the porters, the chefs, the whole group made the Inca Trail an experience we will never forget.
Plan ahead
The Peruvian government caps the Classic Inca Trail at 500 permits per day — guides and porters included — so traveler spots are limited and sell out months in advance. The Short Inca Trail has its own, smaller permit pool.
For departures between May and September, book four to six months ahead. The trail closes every February for annual maintenance and conservation.
See live permit availability →Before you go
It is rated challenging mainly because of the altitude. The toughest day climbs to Dead Woman's Pass at 4,215 m. With two days of acclimatization in Cusco and a steady pace, most reasonably fit travelers complete it comfortably.
Yes — for the 4-day trek in high season (May–September), permits often sell out 4–6 months ahead. The 2-day and 1-day routes have more flexibility but still book up in peak weeks.
We'll suggest the nearest available date, or an equally spectacular alternative such as the Salkantay or Lares trek to Machu Picchu, which do not require Inca Trail permits.
Yes. We regularly guide families and travelers in their 60s and 70s. The 2-day or 1-day routes are ideal for younger children or anyone preferring a gentler option.
Absolutely. Independent hiking is not allowed on the Inca Trail — everyone goes with a licensed operator and guide — so you'll join a friendly small group with full support throughout.
Choose your route
Compare every route side by side — duration, difficulty and price — and pick the journey to Machu Picchu that fits you best.
The complete four-day pilgrimage. Camp beneath the stars, cross Dead Woman's Pass and arrive at the Sun Gate for sunrise over Machu Picchu — the trek every traveler dreams about.
From our journal
Expert guides, packing advice and first-hand stories from the trail — straight from our team in Cusco.
PreparationEverything you need to carry — and everything you can safely leave behind — for the four-day trek to Machu Picchu.
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AltitudeAcclimatization, hydration and the simple habits that make Dead Woman's Pass feel a whole lot easier.
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Best timeMonth-by-month weather, crowds and permit availability to help you choose the perfect departure date.
Read article →Tell us your dates and we'll check live permit availability and build your perfect Inca Trail trip — free, with no obligation.
This trek needs TWO bookings: the government Inca Trail permit (capped at 500 per day and sold out months ahead) and the Machu Picchu entrance ticket. Check both calendars before you book.