Frequently asked questions of the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu

When to book the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu?

The Inca Trail is one of the best walks on the planet. That is why there is a high demand for tickets. That is why you must reserve the income well in advance.
Consider the following before booking the ticket to the Inca Trail:

Admissions to the Inca Trail are depleted 6 months before. Remember that only 500 people can travel this route each day.
Only 200 people will end up entering Machu Picchu by this route, since the rest belongs to the support team, chefs, porters and guides.
The entrance to the Inca Trail only includes the Inca City of Machu Picchu. If you want to visit the Machu Picchu Mountain or the Huayna Picchu; Request it at the tourist agency.
The purchase of the income to the Inca Trail is through the website of an authorized tourism agency.

How long is the tour of the Inca Trail?

The Classic or Traditional Inca Trail is 40 kilometers away and 4 days of walking (approximately 18 to 24 hours). The route will take you through mountains, until arriving at Machu Picchu in the eyebrow of the Amazon rainforest of Peru.
Some information about the tour of the Inca Trail:
The route crosses archaeological sites such as Llactapata, Runkurakay, Sayacmarca, Phuyupatamarca and Wiñaywayna.
The end of the road is the entrance to Machu Picchu through the Intipunku (Puerta del Sol). That was the main gate in time of the Incas. The scenery there is amazing.
In most cases, after traveling the Inca Trail, you will return to Cusco by train.
Some people decide to stay and relax in the hot springs of Aguas Calientes to return to Cusco the next day.

What is the maximum height of the Inca Trail?

The Inca Trail is considered a difficult expedition not only because of the distance but because of the high altitude at some point along the way. The highest point on the road is at ‘Abra Warmihuañusca’, at 4,224 meters (13,860 feet).
Recommendations on problems with height on the Inca Trail:
The altitude sickness or soroche is a typical malaise in places of high heights. It can cause headaches, nausea, loss of appetite and lack of energy.
The best way to combat soroche is to spend a few days acclimatization in Cusco or the Sacred Valley of the Incas.
One of the most effective ways is to drink plenty of coca tea (infusion based on coca leaf) or chew it, just as the Incas did hundreds of years ago.
In any case, the tour guide has a lot of experience in these discomforts and will know how to help the visitor during the Inca Trail.

What is the best time to do the Inca Trail?

Cusco and the entire southern region of Peru is marked by two distinct climatic seasons: the rainy season (from November to March) and the dry season (from April to October). The best time to do the Inca Trail is the dry season. The weather in those months is warm and infrequently rainy.
What to take to combat the weather on the Inca Trail?
If you plan to visit the Inca Trail during the dry season, it is advisable to wear a hat, sunscreen, mosquito repellent, sunglasses, light clothing during the day and warm at night.
If you plan to visit the Inca Trail during the rainy season, it is recommended to wear rain poncho, windbreaker, non-slip shoes and walking stick.

Does the walk have to be 4 days?

There is a short version of the Inca Trail that lasts 2 days. This option is ideal for travelers who do not have enough time to make the 4-day route. It often includes a night in a comfortable establishment instead of camp.
More information about the alternative Inca Trail:
There are many alternative walks to Machu Picchu such as Salkantay Trek or Lares Trek. However, the Inca Trail is the only one that will take you directly to the Inca City through the Intipunku (Puerta del Sol).
The availability of income to the alternative Inca Trail is not as much in demand as the classic version. It can be booked 2 or 3 weeks in advance.
Is the Inca Trail dangerous?
The Inca Trail is not dangerous. The security measures provided include first aid equipment. The tour guides are trained to act effectively in case of any type of emergency.

What dangers can there be on the Inca Trail?

The Inca Trail trails are wide and well signposted. For no reason should tourists risk their lives looking for roads on their own.
The maximum height is in the ‘Abra Warmiwañusca’ (4,200 m.a.s.l.). This altitude can cause physical difficulties.
Older adults may feel more intense physical wear during the Inca Trail. They should check with their doctor before doing the walk.

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