About This Trek
Follow Ancient Footsteps to the Lost City of the Incas
The Classic Inca Trail is one of the world's most celebrated trekking experiences, a 43km journey through misty cloud forests, past Inca ruins, and over dramatic mountain passes to the legendary Sun Gate above Machu Picchu. Every step follows a path built by the Incas over 500 years ago.
The trail was constructed as a sacred pilgrimage route to Machu Picchu, the most remarkable archaeological site in the Americas. You will pass through extraordinary Inca sites including Llactapata, Runkurakay, Sayacmarca, Phuyupatamarca, and the stunning Winay Wayna terraces, before arriving at Inti Punku - the Sun Gate - for your first view of Machu Picchu.
Permits are strictly limited to 500 people per day, so early booking is essential. Our team handles all permit logistics well in advance. With dedicated Incan history guides and fully supported camping, this is the gold standard Inca Trail experience available.
Heritage
Machu Picchu Arrival
Arrive through the Sun Gate for your first magnificent view of the lost city
Forest
Cloud Forest Trek
Trek through enchanting cloud forest draped in orchids and exotic bromeliads
Pass
Dead Woman Pass
Cross the highest point of the trail at 4,215m with sweeping Andean views
Ruins
Six Inca Archaeological Sites
Pass six major Inca sites with expert historical commentary from your guide
Terraces
Winay Wayna Ruins
Stunning terraced Inca ruins clinging to a steep hillside above the cloud forest
Sunrise
Sun Gate Sunrise View
Arrive at Inti Punku at dawn for your first emotional view of Machu Picchu below
Day-by-Day Itinerary
1
Day 1
Cusco to Km 82 Trailhead - Trek Begins (2,680m)
2-hr bus from Cusco4-5 hrs trekkingCamping Ayapata
Early bus from Cusco to the trailhead at Km 82 on the Urubamba River. Register permits, meet porters, and begin trekking through the Sacred Valley. Pass the Llactapata Inca ruins. Gentle terrain through river valley with views of snow-capped peaks. First night camping under Andean stars.
2
Day 2
Ayapata to Pacaymayo via Dead Woman Pass (4,215m)
7-9 hrs trekkingSummit at 4,215mCamping Pacaymayo
The hardest day on the trail. Steep relentless climb to Dead Woman's Pass (Warmiwanusqa) at 4,215m - the highest point on the classic trail. The effort is intense but the views from the top are extraordinary. Descend steeply to the valley camp passing Runkurakay and Sayacmarca ruins.
3
Day 3
Pacaymayo to Winay Wayna via Third Pass (3,700m)
6-7 hrs trekkingCloud forest descentCamping Winay Wayna
Cross the second and third passes, each offering sweeping forested mountain views. Visit dramatic Phuyupatamarca ruins perched above the clouds. Descend through lush cloud forest draped in orchids and bromeliads to spectacular Winay Wayna terraces. Farewell dinner with the group and porters.
4
Day 4
Winay Wayna to Machu Picchu via Sun Gate
4:30am pre-dawn startMachu Picchu tourReturn bus to Cusco
Pre-dawn start at 4:30am to reach the Sun Gate at sunrise. The moment the clouds part and Machu Picchu appears spread below you is one of the most emotional experiences in all of trekking. Two-hour expert guided tour of Machu Picchu ruins. Bus and train back to Cusco in the afternoon.
