Top 20 Frequently Asked Questions About the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu

Top 20 Frequently Asked Questions About the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu

1. What is the Inca Trail?

The Inca Trail to Machu Picchu is one of the most beautiful and best preserved segments of the extensive network of Inca roads known as Qhapac Ñan. This ancient road network spanned more than 30,000 kilometers across South America and connected the main cities or llaqtas of the Tahuantinsuyu.

The Inca Trail is made up of a variety of impressive stone structures, bridges and tunnels that adapt to the mountainous terrain of the Andes.

2. Where is the Inca Trail located?

The renowned section of the Inca Trail that ends at the citadel of Machu Picchu is located in the Cusco region of Peru. It begins at kilometer 82 of the railway line that connects the town of Ollantaytambo with Aguas Calientes.

3. What is the Inca Trail famous for?

The Inca Trail, declared a World Heritage Site, runs through the Cusco region to one of the 7 wonders of the world, Machu Picchu. This ancient trail reflects the impressive Inca engineering and offers spectacular views of the Andean landscapes and part of the Peruvian jungle.

4. What is Machu Picchu?

Machu Picchu is one of the seven wonders of the modern world and was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It stands out as an amazing work of Inca engineering and agriculture. Unlike other settlements, Machu Picchu has remained intact since the time of the Spanish and its subsequent abandonment.

This site, known as an Inca llacta of the Amazon Andes or high Peruvian jungle, is characterized by being an administrative center of Inca origin, where the population resided seasonally before being replaced by another group of inhabitants.

5. Where is Machu Picchu located?

Machu Picchu, a magnificent Inca construction, is located in the Cusco region, Urubamba province and Machu Picchu district. It is located between the Huayna Picchu and Machu Picchu mountains, in the Vilcabamba Batholith of the Andes Mountains. In addition, it is part of the Machu Picchu Historical Sanctuary, a natural conservation area protected by the Peruvian State.

6. What is better, Huayna Picchu, Machu Picchu Mountain or Huchuy Picchu?

In Machu Picchu, there are several alternative routes from the same Inca area, such as Inti Punku or Huchuy Picchu, but the most popular are the Huayna Picchu and Machu Picchu mountains. Each one offers different views of the citadel of Machu Picchu:

    • Huchuy Picchu shows Inca structures.
    • Machu Picchu Mountain , located at a higher altitude, exhibits a rich variety of flora and fauna characteristic of these ecosystems.
    • Huchuy Picchu is the easiest hike and offers a closer view of the Inca citadel of Machu Picchu.

It is important to note that these three routes have a limited number of permits, so it is recommended to book well in advance, preferably at least 6 months in advance. Huayna Picchu tends to sell out more quickly than Machu Picchu Mountain or Huchuy Picchu.

7. What is the law that regulates the Inca Trail?

The regulations governing the Inca Trail are Law No. 28296, known as the General Law of the National Road System of Peru.

Promulgated in 2004, this law aims to establish the legal framework for the conservation, protection, research, promotion and sustainable use of ancestral roads and trails in Peruvian territory, including the Inca Trail.

8. At what altitude is the Inca Trail?

The Inca Trail is located at altitudes ranging from 2,400 to 4,200 meters above sea level. During the trek, visitors experience significant changes in altitude as they progress, requiring proper acclimatization to avoid altitude-related health problems such as altitude sickness (soroche).

9. What is the maximum altitude of the Inca Trail?

A common question about the Inca Trail is knowing the altitudes that adventurers will face in order to choose the right route, whether it is the short Inca Trail or the Classic Inca Trail. In this sense, the maximum altitude depends on the type of trek that is contracted, since there are 2, 4, 5 and 7-day routes.

    • 2-Day Short Inca Trail Hike to Machu Picchu
      • Maximum altitude at Intipunku: 2,730 masl / 8,956 feet.
      • Difficulty level: easy, suitable for private or collective groups.
      • Quality service chosen by the traveler.
    • 4-Day Classic Inca Trail Trek to Machu Picchu
      • Maximum altitude in the Warmiwañusca pass: 4,200 masl / 13,779 feet.
      • Difficulty level: moderate.
      • Private and group service.
    • 5-Day Inca Trail Trek to Machu Picchu
      • Maximum altitude in the Warmiwañusca pass: 4,200 masl / 13,779 feet.
      • Difficulty level: moderate.
      • Private and quality service.
    • 7-day trek Salkantay trek & Inca Trail to Machu Picchu
      • Maximum altitude at the Inca Chiriaska pass: 5,200 masl / 17,060 feet.
      • Difficulty level: difficult.
      • Good physical condition is required.

10. What is the minimum altitude of the Inca Trail?

The lowest altitude of the Inca Trail is at the citadel of Machu Picchu, at 2,400 masl / 7,874 feet.

11. Is the Inca Trail dangerous?

Trekking along the Inca Trail is not dangerous, however, it is recommended to travel with the group assigned for the route, which guarantees safety. The terrain is moderate, with steep sections, but does not require ropes, harnesses or special technical knowledge.

12. Is the Inca Trail worth doing?

The Inca Trail is a unique experience that challenges both physically and mentally. It allows you to walk along ancient Inca trails, explore impressive landscapes and discover fascinating archaeological sites.

It is a direct connection with Inca history and culture, offering the opportunity to learn and immerse oneself in the rich cultural tradition of the region.

The landscapes along the way are spectacular, from snow-capped mountains to lush valleys and cloud forests. Although it represents a physical and mental challenge, reaching Machu Picchu at the end of the journey is an incomparable reward. With regulated access and a limited number of visitors, the Inca Trail offers an exclusive experience.

If you are willing to face the challenge and appreciate history, culture and nature, doing the Inca Trail is definitely worth it and will be an unforgettable experience.

13. How long is the Inca Trail?

The duration of the Inca Trail depends on the number of days you want to walk, for example:

    • Classic Inca Trail : Discover the grandeur of one of the most iconic trails in the world on a 4-day trek full of adventure.
    • Short Inca Trail : This 2-day trek is ideal for those with limited time or prefer a more moderate physical challenge.
    • Inca Trail 5 days : If you are looking for a slower experience and want to fully enjoy the stunning landscapes, consider hiking the Inca Trail for 5 days.

14. What is the best season to do the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu?

Determining the best time to do the route is one of the most frequently asked questions about the Inca Trail. The ideal time to hike the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu is during the dry season, between the months of March and October.

This time is recommended because there is minimal rainfall in the Cusco region, and you can also enjoy excellent festivities such as Cruz Velacuy, the Pilgrimage of the Lord of Qoyllorit’i, Inti Raymi, Corpus Christi, Fiestas del Cusco, Virgen del Carmen de Paucartambo, among others.

In addition, the sky in Cusco during this season is spectacular, with sunny days, so it is necessary to protect yourself from the sun by wearing hats and sunscreen. However, in the mornings and at night it is quite cold, so it is necessary to wear appropriate clothing for the Cusco cold.

Overall, it is the best time to do the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu. Don’t forget to bring a good camera to capture unforgettable moments during your stay in Cusco.

14. Is the Inca Trail open all year round?

No, the Inca Trail is not available all year round. It remains closed throughout the month of February for maintenance and conservation. It is essential to plan your visit taking this restriction into account in order to enjoy this unique experience during the available months.

16. When is the Inca Trail closed?

The Inca Trail is closed during the month of February. This is because annual maintenance is carried out during this period to preserve and conserve the trail, as well as to carry out cleaning and restoration work. During this time, access to the Inca Trail by tourists is prohibited. In addition, February is the month with the highest amount of rainfall.

17. What is the difficulty level of the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu?

The level of difficulty of trekking along the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu can vary depending on each person’s physical condition and the route chosen.

18. Classic Inca Trail (4 days / 3 nights) :

This itinerary is the most popular and has a moderate level of difficulty. It involves walking approximately 44 km in mountainous terrain with altitudes varying between 2,400 and 4,200 meters above sea level.

    • Short Inca Trail (2 days / 1 night) : The difficulty level of this hike is easy. This section is less physically demanding and is around 10 km long. Although it is shorter, it does feature steep slopes and stairs, but nothing that cannot be overcome.
    • Alternative routes to the Inca Trail : There are other hiking routes that lead to Machu Picchu, such as the Salkantay Trek or the Lares Trek. These routes tend to have a high level of difficulty, as they are more challenging in terms of elevation and terrain, but they offer stunning landscapes and unique experiences.

What will the weather be like on the Inca Trail?

The weather along the Inca Trail varies depending on the season in which the trek is undertaken.

    • During the dry season : The days are usually quite hot and dry, while at the Wayllabamba and Pacaymayo camps the nights are very cold. From the third day onwards, the heat increases as you descend towards the high jungle where Machu Picchu is located. The most notable climates are:
      • Dry winter
      • Wet
      • Tempered
      • Cold
    • Dry season : From April to October, characterized mainly by night temperatures dropping to -5 °C and daytime heat intensifying, reaching up to 24 °C.
    • Rainy season : It usually begins in November and intensifies over time, reaching its peak in February, when rainfall is heavier and more constant, which is why the Inca Trail is usually closed in this month. The rainy season ends in March.

20 Is there an age limit to do the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu?

There are actually no age limits for hiking the Inca Trail. However, at Inkayni Peru Tours, as an authorized and responsible travel agency, we only accept reservations for children aged 7 and over, provided that parents take full responsibility during the hike.

    • All minors under 18 must be accompanied by an adult.
    • All passengers aged 60 years or older are required to hire an additional porter (12kg) for their safety.
    • It is recommended that all clients aged 60 years or older consult medical advice, even if it means cancelling their travel plans. Travelers aged 60 years or older are advised to arrive in Cusco at least 3 days prior to departure date to acclimatize and be fit to undertake the trek.
    • Passengers over 55 years of age are advised to consult their doctor before booking and also before travelling, to check their health status and ensure they are fit to participate in a multi-day high altitude trek.

BONUS: Are pack animals allowed on the Inca Trail?

Pack animals such as mules or horses are not permitted on the Inca Trail, in order to preserve the integrity of the Inca trails. However, llamas and alpacas, animals native to the region, can be seen during the trek and at Machu Picchu.

The distribution of all kitchen and camping equipment is the responsibility of the porters.

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