While others focus only on getting you to your destination, we take care of every detail of your trip so that you can enjoy a comfortable, safe, and memorable adventure from the first step to Machu Picchu. Whether you choose our classic inca trail or short inca trail options, let us tell you about the best of our treks and what sets us apart!
Discover our Salkantay camps and experience the ultimate trekking adventure in the heart of the Andes with eco-friendly campsites and stunning views.
Choosing between the Inca Trail treks 2026 is the best option for getting to Machu Picchu, which is why we offer several incredible alternatives in our Iconic Qhapaq Ñan tours that are perfectly suited to what you are looking for, from short trails to multi-day adventures. You will walk through breathtaking landscapes, discovering ancient history around every corner, and experience the unique feeling of following the exact same trails that Inca messengers used centuries ago to reach their sacred citadel.
Experience the best of the Andes on this 3-day Sacred Valley and Short Inca Trail adventure. Explore Pisac’s colorful market and ruins, the circular terraces of Moray, and the salt mines of Maras before visiting the fortress of Ollantaytambo. On Day 2, board the train to Km 104 and hike the Short Inca Trail through cloud forest and Inca sites like Wiñay Wayna, arriving at Machu Picchu via the Sun Gate for your first breathtaking view. Spend the night in Aguas Calientes. On Day 3, enjoy a sunrise guided tour of Machu Picchu, uncovering its temples, terraces, and history, before returning to Cusco. This journey blends culture, nature, and the magic of the Inca Trail in one unforgettable experience.
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The Salkantay Trek is a premier Andean journey that seamlessly blends adventure, culture, and natural beauty. This carefully curated itinerary begins with a breathtaking hike to Humantay Lake, renowned for its crystalline turquoise waters beneath towering glaciers. The route continues toward the majestic Salkantay Pass, one of the region’s most sacred peaks. Travelers enjoy exclusive lodging at the Sky Lodge Domes in Soraypampa, offering comfort and panoramic mountain views. A tranquil visit to Huaypo Lake adds a reflective pause before merging with the iconic Classic Inca Trail. The final leg traverses lush cloud forests and ancient archaeological sites, culminating in a spectacular sunrise arrival at Machu Picchu through the Sun Gate (Inti Punku). This unique combination offers a transformative high-altitude experience, uniting remote wilderness with the grandeur of Inca heritage.
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Embark on a unique adventure that takes you along the famous Inca Trail, one of South America’s most iconic routes, on a one-day journey. The walk begins at km 104 of the Cusco – Machu Picchu railroad, at an altitude of 2100 meters, reaching a maximum of 2,720 meters at the Sun Gate, 10.5 km away and takes 6 hours at a moderate pace. The journey is charming with beautiful panoramic views, full of flora and fauna also allows us to visit 3 wonderful Inca cities Chachabamba, Wiñaywayna and in the afternoon to Machu Picchu when most visitors are on the way down.
This one day tour is perfect for those who want to experience the Inca Trail but are short on time, offering a unique and memorable way to explore Machu Picchu.
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The 9 days Inti Raymi tour festival exploration with our Inca Trail Package, uncovering the treasures of Cusco and the mystical landscapes of the Sacred Valley. The journey commences as you land in Cusco, setting the tone for an immersive experience. Days 2 and 3 unfold in the historic city and the Sacred Valley, where the ancient ruins of Pisaq, Ollantaytambo, and Chincheros beckon, providing a glimpse into the fascinating Incan civilization.
The heart of the adventure beats on Days 4 to 6, as you step onto the revered Classic Inca Trail, a trek leading to the awe-inspiring Machu Picchu. Secure your permits in advance, or explore alternative routes like the Lares trek, Salcantay trek, or Inca Jungle for a unique perspective. The climax of the journey is reached on Day 7, where the legendary Machu Picchu reveals itself in all its splendor. Day 8 immerses you in the cultural richness of the Inti Raymi Festival, a celebration echoing the ancient Inca traditions. As the expedition concludes on Day 9, departing from Cusco, the echoes of this Peruvian adventure linger as a testament to the beauty and history etched into the Andean landscapes.
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Why wait to experience the adventure of a lifetime? In just 4 days, the Classic Inca Trail Tour will take you on a fascinating journey where history, culture, and nature blend together in a truly unique way. Start your journey by exploring ancient Inca pathways, surrounded by breathtaking landscapes that change with every step from lush tropical forests to mist-covered high mountains. Along the way, you’ll discover ancient ruins that have withstood the test of time and learn the stories of a civilization that left its mark on humanity.
In the end, you’ll reach Machu Picchu, the hidden treasure of the Incas a place that will leave you with an indescribable sense of awe. Book your spot now and start dreaming of this once in a lifetime adventure!
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The 6 days Salkantay Inca Trail trek to Machu Picchu is more than just an alternative to the Classic Inca Trail—it’s a full immersion into the wild beauty of the Andes, combining high-altitude adventure with cultural discovery. This extended version of the Salkantay Trek offers a slower, more rewarding pace, giving you time to acclimate, explore, and connect with the landscapes and people along the way.
Unlike the standard 4- or 5-day routes, this 6-day journey includes additional time for glamping in our exclusive EcoDomes, visiting local villages, and experiencing the rich biodiversity that thrives in the transition from glacial peaks to cloud forest. It’s ideal for those who seek a deeper connection with nature and want to avoid the overcrowded Classic Inca Trail.
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If you’re looking for a shorter option, the 2 day Inca Trail hike, popularly known as the Short Inca Trail with camping is the perfect choice. This condensed version of the iconic Inca Trail takes you through all the main attractions in less time, without losing the essence of the experience. The Inca Trail with Camping offers you an authentic adventure, allowing you to camp under the starry sky and explore the stunning landscapes. You’ll be accompanied by an English-speaking local guide who will provide you with deeper insights into Andean traditions and Peruvian history.
The 2 Day Inca Trail with Camping is perfect for you. You will be able to enjoy an impressive hike along the Inca Trail, exploring ancient ruins, breathtaking landscapes and the majesty of the Andean mountains, while camping at night under the starry sky of the Andes. A unique experience that you cannot miss!
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Discover the magic of the Inca Trail on a two-day adventure that combines breathtaking landscapes, rich history, and the opportunity to immerse yourself in ancient Incan culture. This tour offers a perfect balance of hiking and comfort, with an overnight stay at a hotel near Aguas Calientes, ensuring you’re well-rested before exploring the awe-inspiring Machu Picchu.
The 2 Days Inca Trail to Machu Picchu is the ideal alternative if you were unable to secure a permit for the Classic Inca Trail trek. Click to read real traveler reviews about a wonderful and memorable experience.
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Experience a unique journey that combines two of Peru’s most iconic trekking routes into one unforgettable adventure. The Salkantay Trek & Inca Trail 4-Day Trek to Machu Picchu in Glamping Sky Lodge Dome blends dramatic high-Andean landscapes with ancient Inca pathways, offering a perfect balance of adventure, culture, and comfort. Trek through glacial valleys, towering snowcapped peaks, and remote mountain scenery before connecting with the legendary Inca Trail, the historic route once used by the Incas.
Along the way, enjoy exclusive nights in Glamping Sky Lodge Domes, where comfort meets nature under star-filled skies. The journey culminates with a guided visit to the awe-inspiring Machu Picchu, where centuries of history, masterful engineering, and breathtaking scenery come together in a truly meaningful finale.
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The private Inca Trail is renowned worldwide, drawing adventurers from across the globe, thanks to its combination of rich history, incredible landscapes, and the unforgettable experience of arriving at Machu Picchu, one of the Seven Wonders of the Modern World. This exclusive, private journey takes you through spectacular Incan sites, where you’ll learn about the ancient civilization and its sacred landmarks. Along the way, you’ll witness awe-inspiring views of lush forests, towering mountains, and scenic valleys, creating an unparalleled connection with nature.
On this private tour, you’ll have the privilege of experiencing the Inca Trail with personalized attention and exclusive access to the best spots along the route. Your journey will culminate with your arrival at Machu Picchu through the Sun Gate (Inti Punku), one of the most breathtaking entry points to the ancient citadel. The 4 days Inca Trail is the ultimate adventure for those who want to explore one of the world’s most iconic trekking routes in a more intimate, luxurious setting, creating memories that will last a lifetime.
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The Inca Trail 5 days offers a more relaxed and immersive journey through the breathtaking Peruvian Andes. Starting in Cusco, this scenic trek allows you to walk along the iconic Inca Trail at a comfortable pace, giving you ample time to explore ancient archaeological sites such as Llactapata, Wiñaywayna, and Phuyupatamarca. As you trek through lush landscapes, you’ll be treated to panoramic views, rich cultural insights, and plenty of opportunities for acclimatization, ensuring a more enjoyable and well-paced adventure. On the final day, you’ll have the chance to explore the majestic Machu Picchu before returning to Cusco. This journey is perfect for those who prefer a slower pace while still experiencing the wonders of the Inca Trail and the ancient city of Machu Picchu.
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Peru is a vast land full of history. Here the ancient, colonial, and modern traditions meld together for an unforgettable cultural experience. No matter the type of traveler, history buff or adventurer. Peru offers a myriad of activities to satisfy every appetite. It’s no surprise that its ancient Inca sites, beautiful topography, and diverse ecosystem attract travelers from all over the world. This makes Peru, one of the most popular destinations in South America.
Peru is a country in South America, situated on the western side of the continent. Peru has rich natural resources and many great places to visit. As we always say, Peru has it all…
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Our Inca Trail tours 2026 have been recognized for excellence thanks to our commitment to safety, professional guides, high-quality service, and unforgettable trekking experiences to Machu Picchu.
We invite you to join the Inca Trail Treks 2026, where breathtaking Andean landscapes, ancient history, and the thrill of walking ancestral paths await you. An unforgettable journey that will stay with you forever but the new season is about to begin, book your adventure now!
In this section, we want to share what makes our Inca Trail Treks so special. From the breathtaking views along the route to the stories hidden in every ruin, these journeys are all about living the magic of the Andes.
The Inca Trail connects you directly with the Inca Empire's incredible legacy. You'll walk through major archaeological sites like Wiñay Wayna, Runkurakay, and Sayacmarca before reaching 15th-century Machu Picchu.
This trek showcases Peru's most stunning landscapes, cloud forests, towering Andean peaks, rushing rivers, cascading waterfalls, and snow-capped mountains.
The Inca hike pushes your limits while staying totally doable for most hikers. Reaching Machu Picchu after days of trekking gives you an incredible sense of accomplishment that stays with you forever.
Our local guides "Chaskis" know every trail secret, historical detail, and wildlife fact. They make the trek safer and way more interesting, plus handle all the logistics so you just focus on enjoying the adventure.
Only 500 people per day can hike the Qhapaq Ñan, making it a truly special experience. This limited access keeps crowds manageable and preserves the trail's authentic, intimate atmosphere.
We use only high quality camping equipment for our Peru treks such as Inca Trail!! Quechuas Expeditions provides for the treks in Peru, the tent, sleeping bag, thermarest mattress, dinning tent and toilet tent.
Be assured that our equipment is of quality and resistant to all types of land. We have specialists who choose carefully the tents and implements to be used during your trip to make it an unforgettable and pleasant experience. Below we will show you the characteristics and attributes of our camping equipment.
We use the best quality camp team and equipment, complying with the requirements of the specialist in outdoors ensuring in this way the comfort of our travelers according to the requirements of developing our activities in the mountains of the Andes.
Our tents are of the proffesional brand Doite (Kayla and Pro Aconcagua) designated for 4 seasons. We provide with 3 person capacity tents; however, just 2 trek participants use it! In this way, we provide you more space and comfort. In case of a single traveller, we provide with a 2 person capacity tent. After each inca trail treks, we carefully check our tents and fix them if necessary!
Technical parameters of the tents are the following:
We use dining tents made of waterproof and cold-resistant materials having two side doors. Their capacity is 16 persons.We choose our tent thinking about one of the most important steps for any camper.
Our bathroom facilities are safe and sanitary and ready to be used wherever it is necessary. We use the Cleanwaste Complete GO toilet system providing you with privacy and safety! Moreover, we use biodegradable fillings that contribute to our eco-friendly approach!! If you are planning a trek, hike or some outside tours, don't worry about it, our Toiled Tent has a clean interiors, is climate controlled, ecofriendly and very confortable.
We use only feather sleeping bags that are suitable up to minus 15°C. This means you do not need to be worry about cold as temparature at night at each trek reaches just up to 0°C (maximum -5°C)!! How we choose our sleeping bag? There are 3 important points that we keep in mind when we choose our sleeping bags :
For these reasons rest assured a comfortable stay that will not disturb your sleep hours.
We provide with inflatable mattresses of the brand Therm-A-Rest. The mattresses are 3 cm heigh that will ensure you a sufficient isolation from the cold earth! Our therm Mattresses are durable, confortable and lightweight. They do not absorb moisture and there is no risk of puncturing it.
They offer good insulation, are easy to inflate and can be adjusted to the degree of comfort. They have a very compact volume of transport, can adjust to taste the degree of padding and to have a greater thickness irregularities of the terrain are not major problem.
We offer private transportation in a comfortable and safe van for our clients. Whether it's for transfers to the start of treks, excursions, or transfers from one destination to another, we guarantee high-quality service with a professional driver and a well-equipped van for your comfort and safety throughout the journey. This way, you can enjoy your experience without any worries!
The true magic of the Qhapaq Ñan comes from the incredible porters who make every trek possible. While you're sleeping, they're up before dawn preparing everything for your adventure ahead.
Our porters are from highland villages around Cusco, farmers, fathers, and proud Andean people who speak Quechua and carry on ancient traditions. Their strength is amazing, but their kindness and spirit really touch travelers' hearts.
We treat our porters right with proper gear, good meals, and fair pay because their well-being makes every successful trek happen. For you, this might be a once-in-a-lifetime adventure, but for them, it's a proud tradition passed down through generations.
These aren't just workers, they're your companions who carry centuries of history in every step. The Qhapaq Ñan isn't just about reaching Machu Picchu; it's about walking with the people who make the magic happen.
The weather on the Qhapaq Ñan is a critical aspect of the trekking experience, as the Andes Mountains significantly influence the climate of the entire region. The trail experiences two distinct seasons: wet and dry.
The weather not only determines the comfort of the hike, but can also affect key aspects such as the safety of the trek, the type of equipment you need, and the visibility of the landscapes.
As this route traverses various altitudes, from 2,600 m above sea level at the starting point to 4,200 m above sea level at the Abra Warmiwañusqa (the highest point), temperature and humidity fluctuations are constant. Therefore, understanding the Qhapaq Ñan weather month by month is essential for good planning.
The best time to hike the Inca Trail is during the dry season, which runs from May to September. During these months, rainfall is infrequent and the trails are in better condition, making the hike safer and more enjoyable. The skies are also usually clear, allowing for spectacular views of the mountains and archaeological sites along the trail.
June, July, and August are the most popular months because they coincide with the Andean winter: sunny days, cold nights, and a large influx of visitors. Therefore, it’s advisable to book several months in advance, as permits sell out quickly.
April and October are considered transitional months and are also highly recommended. In April, the rainy season ends, and the landscape is green and flowery, with fewer tourists on the trail. October, meanwhile, marks the end of the dry season, with pleasant temperatures and fewer travelers.
Level of difficulty: Moderate to challenging. Requires good physical condition and acclimatization to altitude (up to 4,200 m).
High altitude affects everyone differently. These symptoms can start to appear above 2,500 meters (8,200 feet). Spend a few days at high elevations near Cusco before your hike, this helps your body adjust to the thinner air.
You will encounter the famous ‘Dead Woman’s Pass’ at 4,200 meters (13,779 feet). It’s the highest and most strenuous part of the trek. The ascent and descent here are particularly challenging.
Weather on the Inca Trail can be unpredictable. You might experience sunny, rainy, and cold conditions in a single day.
Waterproof gear is a must. Sudden rain showers are common and can occur year-round. Ensure your pack includes a rain jacket and cover. Protect yourself from the sun as well. High-altitude UV levels can be dangerously high. Sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses are essential.
Begin training at least a few months before you plan to start the hike. Focus on cardio, strength, and endurance. Hiking local trails can mimic the conditions you’ll face.
Incorporate stairs into your workouts. They are a great way to prepare for the steps of the trail. Leg strength is a key factor in your hiking success. Don’t skip on stretching and recovery. These reduce the risk of injury and improve physical conditioning. Yoga and pilates can enhance your flexibility and core strength.
Step into our Inca Trail gallery and relive the journey through images that capture the magic, mystery, and breathtaking beauty of this legendary path. Here you will have the opportunity to visit the best views on your way to the Inca fortress.
With over 1,000 travelers reviewing our Inca Trail treks on Tripadvisor, we are proud to consistently receive outstanding ratings for our expert guides, seamless organization, and unforgettable experiences on the trail to Machu Picchu.
Planning your Qhapaq Ñan adventure? You’re probably wondering about permits, difficulty levels, what to pack, and a dozen other things that pop up when you’re getting ready for this incredible journey. Don’t worry, we get these questions all the time! Here are the most common concerns our travelers have before booking their Inca Trail treks, along with straight answers to help you feel confident and prepared for what’s ahead.
Book your Inca Trail Treks at least 6-8 months in advance, especially for peak season (May-September). Only 500 people per day are allowed on the trail, including guides and porters.
Inca Trail Treks are considered moderate to challenging. The highest point is Dead Woman's Pass at 4,215m (13,828ft). Good physical fitness is recommended, but you don't need to be an athlete.
Book in advance as dates are first-come, first-served. Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months. We need minimum 2 people to open new departure dates. Check our current Inca Trail availability before making your reservation.
Complete our Qhapaq Ñan reservation form (see attachment). Do not make a reservation until you have all the details below. We cannot accept a reservation without all names, nationalities, passport numbers, and ages:
IMPORTANT: This information goes to the Peruvian government for official permits. Any changes must be reported immediately.
To book the trail with us, clients must make a deposit. Please note that the program deposit is non-refundable. Without an initial payment, your Inca trek is not confirmed.
Payments can be made via Western Union, PayPal, or Bank Transfer (Western Union is the fastest and most secure payment method in Peru).
We will send you a trip invoice for the trek and deposit (with the signature of our travel advisor) once we receive all the above requirements. Please print this document to present it at our office in Cusco.
NOTE: Before departing for Peru, it is advisable to inform your bank that you will be traveling to Peru so you do not encounter issues with your credit/bank cards while abroad.
One or two days before your Inca hike adventure starts, our representative will contact you at your hotel in Cusco to arrange a meeting with your guide. During this briefing (usually around 6-7 PM), your guide will go over all the trek details, answer any questions you have, and you'll meet your group.
If you've requested rental gear like sleeping bags or duffel bags, you'll get everything during this meeting. Just make sure to let us know where you're staying and when you arrive in Cusco so we can coordinate everything smoothly.Reintentar
We suggest you leave any luggage you don’t need for the hike at your hotel. Nearly all hotels in Cusco have a secure storage area where you can keep your belongings, and they won’t charge you for this service if you return to the same hotel after your trek. However, if they don’t have a storage area, we also have a place where you can leave it with us. Please let us know.
Sleeping mat weight = 1 kg
Sleeping bag weight = 2 kg
We provide sleeping tents (four-season aluminum tents for two people each, with a capacity of 3 people and 10), dining tents, tables, chairs, bathroom tents, kitchen equipment, water purifiers, Thermarest air mattresses, and other camping gear. Our supplier purchases top-quality equipment in Peru, and older gear is regularly assessed and replaced as needed.
A cook accompanies each group on the Qhapaq Ñan and travelers frequently praise the delicious menu. Breakfast, lunch, dinner, and ample snacks are provided for your hike. Meals are a mix of local specialties and international favorites. See our Qhapaq Ñan menu for details. Vegetarian meals are available upon request, and most other special dietary needs can be accommodated with sufficient notice.
