Machu Picchu, Cusco, Peru in the early morning mist, found on the steep slopes of the Andes Mountains.
There’s something different about walking into Machu Picchu instead of arriving by train. Hiking the inca trail cusco to machu picchu means following the same stone paths the Incas built centuries ago, through cloud forest, over mountain passes, past smaller ruins that most day-trippers never get to see.
Classic Trail or the 2 Day Version?
The classic route is about 26 miles over four days, camping the whole way and crossing Dead Woman’s Pass, which is exactly as tough as it sounds. If four days of camping isn’t your thing, or you just don’t have the time, the 2 day inca trail is worth a look. It pairs a train ride with a single day of hiking that still ends at Machu Picchu through the Sun Gate. It sits somewhere between the full trek and a simple day trip to machu picchu by train, a decent middle ground for a lot of people.
Getting a Permit
Only 500 people are allowed on the classic trail each day, and that number includes guides and porters, not just hikers. Permits sell out three to six months ahead during peak season, sometimes sooner. You also can’t hike this one on your own, it has to go through a licensed operator. Worth checking permit availability early before locking in your dates.
Getting Your Body Ready
There’s steady elevation gain across multiple days, so it helps to show up in reasonable shape. Spend a couple of days in Cusco first to acclimatize, it cuts down the risk of altitude sickness once you’re out on the trail. And don’t underestimate your boots. Broken-in, comfortable boots matter more than almost any other piece of gear, since blisters are usually what slows people down by day two.
What’s Included
Most operators handle tents, meals, and porters on the classic route. The 2 day version usually includes train tickets, one night in a hotel, and a guided hike on the final day. Both end at Machu Picchu, but walking in through the Sun Gate gives you a first look at the site that’s completely different from arriving on the bus.
Questions People Usually Ask
Do I need hiking experience?
It helps, but it’s not required. What matters more is decent fitness and giving yourself time to acclimatize beforehand.
When should I book the classic trail?
Three to six months out for the June to August window, permits go fast in peak season.
Is the 2 day trail less crowded?
It’s a different, shorter path altogether, so the experience isn’t really comparable to the four-day trek, but you’ll still want to book ahead.
