Follow the footpaths of the Inca to the roof of the Andes, passing ancient Tambo ruins, and breathing in pure mountain air by the lungful. Memorable moments are plentiful on the Inca Trail’s four-day trek, but none can compare to the moment you walk through the Sun Gate and catch your first glimpse of the forgotten city of Machu Picchu. It’s not just an accomplishment; it’s a transformative moment.
The Inca Trail is one of our most popular trips in the region, and is ideal for travellers eager to combine the cultural highlights of the Sacred Valley with the challenge of one of the world’s best-known hikes. Since its rediscovery over a century ago, much has been done to excavate and study the site. The stretch referred to as the “Inca Trail” today is, in fact, merely the final, dramatic stretch of the Incan road to Machu Picchu. This part of the Trail is a challenging four-day trek from the floor of the Sacred Valley up high mountain passes and through cloud forests and jungle that tests the limits of mind, body, and spirit.
While it is physically demanding, the 40km (25 mi) hike remains within the reach of most reasonably fit travellers. Some parts are steep, especially the three high passes – one of which reaches an elevation of 4,200m (13,776 ft)! The end is appropriately nicknamed the “Sun Gate,” where mist-shrouded views of Machu Picchu prove to all who make it that the climb was undeniably worth it.
You can’t take the trek if you don’t know where you’re headed. Check out our handy map of the Urubamba Valley’s iconic routes and get your bearings.
Only tour operators like G Adventures can acquire permits. Tour operators are subject to thorough annual inspections by the government agencies that govern the Inca Trail.
Before permits were introduced, there were no regulations and many trekkers camped wherever they pleased, used the ruins as latrines, and generally made a mess of the place. In 2002, Inca Trail regulations were introduced to protect the site and the surrounding ecosystem. These regulations restrict the number of annual visitors and prevent undocumented trekkers from hiking the Trail.
We’ve been running trips here for years, and as the world’s largest Inca Trail operator, we have an established set of protocols to best secure your permit. With years of experience, our Cusco-based team is on hand to book and collect your permit in person. This means that as soon as your permit is confirmed, your spot on the Trail is confirmed. Book with confidence!
We’ve been bringing travellers to the Inca Trail for over 15 years. Because we run our own treks with our own staff and equipment, we can ensure our porters are treated fairly and that the quality of our food and gear is always top notch. Our groups enjoy the best adventure possible and are afforded plenty of time to bond before and after the trek. Each itinerary is planned to give you the best possible experience.
