Some reasons to hike the Inca Trail to Machupicchu

Published: 18 October 2023 | Update: 09 October 2025 | Reads: 2867

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The Inca Trail to Machu Picchu is recognized worldwide not only as one of the best hiking routes, but as a true pilgrimage through history. To walk its ancient stone paths is to walk in the same footsteps that the Inca Empire made centuries ago, connecting sacred valleys, mountains and ceremonial centers.

The trail to Machu Picchu is a personal challenge that rewards the effort with spectacular views that change at every moment, from dry high mountain passes to the lush vegetation of the forest. It is a unique opportunity to get to know nature up close, to hear only the sound of the wind in the Andes, and to share the experience with other travelers who, like you, are looking for something more than a simple vacation.

But, what is it that really motivates thousands of people each year to undertake this journey? The reasons are as varied as the landscapes that are traveled, and they range from personal achievement to the deep desire to connect with history. Below, we will explore the motives that make this hike an experience that marks the lives of those who dare to do it.

Itinerary of the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu

Stage 1: Start at Km 82 and Ascent to Huayllabamba
The hike along the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu begins at km 82. It is essential to present your original passport to register at the checkpoint before crossing the Vilcanota River. From there, an ascent of approximately 3 hours awaits you to Huayllabamba, the only inhabited town on the entire route. This section of the valley is rich in Inca terraces and old stone constructions with the typical trapezoidal windows and niches.
Stage 2: The Challenge of the First Pass and the Ruins of Sayacmarca
The most difficult section of the hike is the next 6 hours to the first pass, located at 4,200 meters of altitude. It is recommended to leave this part for the second day to take it easy. From this point, the trail continues through magnificent landscapes, with views of the slopes of the snowy Salkantay (6,264 m). Approximately one hour after the second pass, a stone staircase will lead you to the Inca ruins of Sayacmarca, an impressive place to camp near an old stone aqueduct.
Stage 3: Descent into the Cloud Forest and Puyopatamarca
Continuing on the path, you will descend into a dense cloud forest. Here you will begin to see delicate orchids and other exotic flora. The stone slab trail will take you through an amazing tunnel carved into the rock by the Incas, which allows you to overcome a climb that would otherwise be impossible. The path finally winds its way to the ruins of Puyopatamarca ("Town above the clouds"), where there are five small stone baths that, in the rainy season, have running water.
Stage 4: Wiñay Wayna and the First View of Machu Picchu
Near the end, you will find Wiñay Wayna ("Forever young"), an Inca citadel almost as impressive as Machu Picchu and another place with fresh water. After spending the night here, the final stretch will take you past Inti Punku (the Sun Gate), from where you will have your first view of Machu Picchu. This is an amazing moment. Try to get to this point before sunrise and to Machu Picchu long before 10:30 a.m. to avoid the arrival of the tourist trains.

Trekking Inca Trail

When to travel

When considering a visit to Machu Picchu, it's important to note that the only month to avoid is February. During this time, the Inca Trail, the Machu Picchu sanctuary area, and other Inca archaeological sites along the route are temporarily closed for essential restoration work.

When strategizing your travel plans, here are some key factors to bear in mind:

First and foremost, booking well in advance is crucial. Many trekkers secure their reservations at least six months ahead, especially when traveling with a group. This ensures you can secure your desired dates and tour company while allowing your chosen tour provider to obtain the necessary government permits and documentation.
For solo travelers or couples, there's a better chance of finding available spots on group tours without extensive pre-planning.
The dry season in Cusco and its environs extends from May to October, making this period the most favorable time to embark on your journey. While there's no absolute guarantee against occasional fog or rain showers, the likelihood of heavy downpours is significantly reduced during these months.
However, do anticipate cooler temperatures during this season. While daytime hiking temperatures typically hover around 18-20°C (65-70°F), which feels pleasantly warm, especially in the presence of the sun, nighttime temperatures can drop to freezing levels.

Why Is It So Popular?

The Inca Trail encapsulates the essence of Peru in a condensed form: vibrant emerald cloud forests teeming with diverse bird species, towering Andean peaks, challenging mountain passes, and a landscape adorned with age-old ruins that remain within reach exclusively for those who traverse this renowned route.

Yet, while the trek itself boasts undeniable beauty, the true allure that drives its immense popularity unfolds at the culmination of this four-day expedition: the moment you pass through the Sun Gate and lay eyes on the enchanting Machu Picchu in the distance. This ethereal vista is reserved solely for Inca Trail trekkers, offering them a sunrise spectacle that elevates this journey to a prominent position on numerous 'South America bucket lists.' It is this crescendo, set against one of the world's new seven wonders, that makes the Inca Trail an irresistible choice for adventure seekers.

Inca Trail

Book With The Right Trekking Company

Preserving the Inca Trail's ecological integrity and minimizing the effects of overuse and erosion is a priority for the Peruvian government. To achieve this, they impose strict daily limits on the number of individuals allowed on the Inca Trail. Only 500 people have the privilege of accessing the trail each day when it's open, and to secure one of these coveted permits, you must make your reservation through an authorized tour provider. Out of these 500 daily slots, approximately 200 are typically allocated to trekkers, with the remaining 300 being dedicated to guides, porters, and cooks who accompany the hikers.

In summary, due to the scarcity of permits and the high demand for this iconic experience, it is imperative to plan and book your trek well in advance, exclusively through a reputable tour company, to embark on your Inca Trail adventure.

The best hikes to Machu Picchu

For those looking for adventure and nature, arriving at Machu Picchu on foot is one of the most rewarding ways to experience this wonder. There are several trekking routes that cross Andean landscapes, cloud forests and ancient Inca trails. These are some of the most outstanding hikes:

Other equally fascinating tours: