Regarded as one of the most breathtaking and fascinating hiking routes in the world, the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu is a perfect blend of history and nature, leading you to discover one of the greatest pre-Columbian civilizations: the Incas.
This is a once-in-a-lifetime journey, unfolding among archaeological remains, ancient ruins, and spectacular Andean landscapes, from the Peruvian rainforest to the alpine tundra.
The 45-kilometer trek offers stunning views of snow-capped peaks at every stage. The route starts in Cuzco, a Peruvian city with 300,000 residents and a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1983, and after four days, you’ll reach the Sun Gate, where you can admire one of the “Seven Wonders of the Modern World,” the archaeological site of Machu Picchu.
But the Inca citadel is just the grand finale of an extraordinary journey. After leaving Cuzco, you’ll pause in the small village of Wayllambamba before heading to the Pacaymayo campsite, located at 3,600 meters above sea level. Continuing on, you’ll arrive at Winaywayna, the penultimate stop, offering the chance to explore another stunning Incan archaeological site perched on a hill overlooking the Urubamba River.
The itinerary described here is the so-called “Classic” route, but there are several other ways to reach Machu Picchu, including the “Mollepata Trail” and the “One Day” trek. Whether you choose the Classic or the Mollepata, both promise an unforgettable experience.
Points of Interest:
- Abra Runkurakav: a small oval-shaped archaeological complex, probably used as a watchtower over the Pacamayo valley.
- Sayacmarca: the ruins of Sayacmarca form a splendid semicircular architectural site, featuring ancient ceremonial fountains.
- Phuyupatamarca: this is one of the best-preserved archaeological sites along the trail, notable for its beautiful buildings and several ritual fountains.
- Winaywayna: another magnificent archaeological complex built on a hillside overlooking the Urubamba River.
- Machu Picchu: words are hardly enough to describe one of the world’s seven wonders—the Inca archaeological site of Machu Picchu.
Info sheet:
- Country: Peru
- Official website: Inca Trail
- Distance: 45 kilometers
- GPX: n/a
- KMZ: n/a
