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Discover the Wonders of Peru's Heartland by Hiking the Inca Trail
The Inca Trail is one of the most famous treks in the entire world, and is the best route in South America. It leads to one of the New Wonders of the World, Machu Picchu and follows along the trail that the Incas created all those hundreds of years ago.
Along the route you’ll get to see some fascinating archaeological sites that can only be accessed by foot. You’ll hike the trail accompanied by a knowledgeable guide who’ll inform you of all the important facts from history, as well as with tourists from across the globe. It’s a great chance to make new friends, too. The trail is tough in parts, but it’s well worth the challenge. Let’s take a look in more detail.
The Inca Trail is one of the most famous treks in the entire world, and is the best route in South America. It leads to one of the New Wonders of the World, Machu Picchu and follows along the trail that the Incas created all those hundreds of years ago.
Locally Owned & Operated
We are the operators! We are a licensed Tour Company. There is no middleman on a trip with us!
Expert Local Guides
Chosen for great knowledge of their country, and a passion to make your trip extraordinary.
Fantastic Meals
Our owner and all of our staff are local to Peru and care about its environment, people and culture.
Eco-Friendly Tours
Education and conservation are our passion. We aim to create lifelong ambassadors for the protection of all wilderness areas.
Small Groups
Average groups of 10; solos, couples and friends, united by a desire for authentic experiences.
Our Best Seller
Tackle the legendary Inca Trail for the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to approach Machu Picchu through breathtaking mountain scenery, as the Incas themselves did many centuries ago. Join us on the Inca Trail for an experience you'll never forget.
Our Best Seller
The Classic Inca Trail
The world-famous Inca Trail to Machu Picchu is one of the best trekking routes in South America. Walk in the footsteps of our Inca nobility ancestors to their incredible Inca fortress, Machu Picchu, and dare to discover their secrets.
The world-famous Inca Trail to Machu Picchu is one of the best trekking routes in South America. Walk in the footsteps of our Inca nobility ancestors to their incredible Inca fortress, Machu Picchu, and dare to discover their secrets.
The Inca Trail is where those most daring choose to trek to Machu Picchu, UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visit unique archaeological sites that can only be accessed on foot along this route and become enveloped in the stunning Andean mountain landscape and thick vegetation. You’ll be challenged along the way but will receive the most amazing reward when you enter through the Sun Gate to look over mystical Machu Picchu for the first time.
Inca Trail Tours
If trekking the Inca Trail is on your bucket list, you have a few options, ranging from just 2 days to 7 days long, which includes a part of the incredible Salkantay Trail as well. Bear in mind that the 4 day trail is the classic route and the one that most people want to take part in, so you need to book months in advance.
The Best Adventure Combinations in Peru
Every journey we design is carefully curated and completely bespoke, fine-tuned to your passions and interests. Experience jaw-dropping natural wonders, mysterious ancient civilisations, diverse indigenous culture and unique wildlife with some of the best trek combinations in Peru and South America.
Lares Trek & Inca Trail 5 Days
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Camps & Hotel Accommodation -
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4,700 m / 15,420 ft Max. altitude -
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Moderate to Challenging Difficulty
Get away from the crowds and enjoy an epic journey that combines the Lares Trek with the Inca Trail to one of the most famous wonders of the world: Machu Picchu. This incredible 5-day adventure will take you through breathtaking landscapes, allow you to interact with rural Andean communities, and walk the ancient paths of one of the world’s best treks: the Inca Trail.
Get away from the crowds and enjoy an epic journey that combines the Lares Trek with the Inca Trail to one of the most famous wonders of the world: Machu Picchu. This incredible 5-day adventure will take you through breathtaking landscapes, allow you to interact with rural Andean communities, and walk the ancient paths of one of the world’s best treks: the Inca Trail.
Along this magnificent and scenic route, you’ll witness majestic mountain glaciers, stunning blue and green lagoons, waterfalls, streams, llamas, and alpacas. Spend three days in the high Andes before joining the Short Inca Trail to enjoy the best of both worlds. You’ll connect with nature as you visit incredible archaeological sites and finish your journey at the magical Machu Picchu.
Ancascocha Trek & Inca Trail Short 5 Days
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![Accommodation Peru Tours]()
Camps & Hotel Accommodation -
![Trek Highest Altitude]()
4,650 m / 15,256 ft Max. altitude -
![Hiking Level Peru]()
Moderate to Challenging Difficulty
This fantastic journey combines two of the most impressive trails in Peru. You'll enjoy the best of both in an off-the-beaten-path route: the Ancascocha Trek and the 2-day Short Inca Trail. During the first three days, you’ll be far from the crowds, taking in the rugged beauty of the Andes. You'll stay away from the typical tourist trails and be amazed by the breathtaking mountain views surrounding you. We’ll walk through remote communities that still work and live off the land, just as they have for generations.
This fantastic journey combines two of the most impressive trails in Peru. You'll enjoy the best of both in an off-the-beaten-path route: the Ancascocha Trek and the 2-day Short Inca Trail. During the first three days, you’ll be far from the crowds, taking in the rugged beauty of the Andes. You'll stay away from the typical tourist trails and be amazed by the breathtaking mountain views surrounding you. We’ll walk through remote communities that still work and live off the land, just as they have for generations.
In the final days of this incredible adventure, we’ll head to the famous Inca Trail and follow ancient footsteps through remarkably well-preserved ancestral structures. You’ll be in awe of the magnificent engineering feats of the Inca culture. We’ll finish this unforgettable trip with a visit to Machu Picchu, one of the New Seven Wonders of the World and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Salkantay Trek + Short Inca Trail 6 Days
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![Accommodation Peru Tours]()
Private Camps & Hotel Accommodation -
![Trek Highest Altitude]()
4,630 m / 15,190 ft Max. altitude -
![Hiking Level Peru]()
Moderate to Challenging Difficulty
The Salkantay Trek and Short Inca Trail is one of the best routes that you should do at least once in your life. This program will take you out of the routine to transport you to wonderful places that only the Peruvian Andes have for you. You will visit several tourist attractions, including the magical turquoise waters of the Humantay Lake and the imposing Salkantay snow-capped mountain. Around the mountains, you will explore the tropical forest and appreciate its diverse flora and fauna. Finally, you will visit Machu Picchu, one of the wonders of the modern world, and learn about the ancient history of the Incas. Without a doubt, this is a complete itinerary to recharge your energy and enjoy it to the fullest.
The Salkantay Trek and Short Inca Trail is one of the best routes that you should do at least once in your life. This program will take you out of the routine to transport you to wonderful places that only the Peruvian Andes have for you. You will visit several tourist attractions, including the magical turquoise waters of the Humantay Lake and the imposing Salkantay snow-capped mountain. Around the mountains, you will explore the tropical forest and appreciate its diverse flora and fauna. Finally, you will visit Machu Picchu, one of the wonders of the modern world, and learn about the ancient history of the Incas. Without a doubt, this is a complete itinerary to recharge your energy and enjoy it to the fullest.
Salkantay Trek & Inca Trail 7 Days
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![Accommodation Peru Tours]()
Camps Accommodation -
![Trek Highest Altitude]()
5,100 m / 16,732 ft Max. altitude -
![Hiking Level Peru]()
Moderate to Challenging Difficulty
Can’t decide between the Salkantay route and the Inca Trail? Don’t worry. Our 7-day Salkantay and Inca Trail trek combines both routes to Machu Picchu in one incredible journey. Both hikes are ranked among the 25 best in the world by National Geographic, and together they make up one of the most epic adventures out there.
Can’t decide between the Salkantay route and the Inca Trail? Don’t worry. Our 7-day Salkantay and Inca Trail trek combines both routes to Machu Picchu in one incredible journey. Both hikes are ranked among the 25 best in the world by National Geographic, and together they make up one of the most epic adventures out there.
It’s no surprise that this combination will push you to your limits and test your endurance. However, once you reach the summit, you’ll realize that every effort was worth it when your journey culminates at the awe-inspiring Inca citadel of Machu Picchu. You’ll feel a deep sense of achievement and satisfaction as you explore the ancient ruins and take in the stunning scenery of the lush Peruvian jungle.
Why Travel With Us?
We are dedicated and commited to our clients, to the environment, and to our fellow compatriots
Our Porters "Kallpa Team"
It is not possible to create the experience we provide without the unbelievably hard work of our team of porters. They are made up of men varying ages who are willing to leave their homes several hours away for days at a time. They typically are farmers.
We go out of our way to treat them with respect providing fair wages and proper equipment. We care for their health and the health of their families. In their communities we work on many social projects, especially in education and health, where we have small reinforcement schools with teachers in the subjects that the children of our porters require, we implement libraries, even school buildings.
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Knowledgeable Tour Guides
Salkantay Trekking relies on an extensive network of highly trained guides and expert ambassadors as a premise to guarantee excellence in our services. We are fully conscious that an excellent guide is key to making your trip a memorable experience, which is why we are extremely demanding when recruiting and regularly training our guides.
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Our Chefs
In all of our trekking trips, the chef ensures high-quality meals on time, an adequate diet both in its quality and quantity. The secret lies in the careful selection of our team of chefs, whose top-quality restaurant background, creativity and passion for their jobs provide an unequalled touch to all of our meals. We do not have set menus since we wish to give our chefs the chance to create, innovate and surprise our clients through delicious dishes in every trip.
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The Best Trekking Food in Peru
We do not have set menus since we wish to give our chefs the chance to create, innovate and surprise our clients through delicious dishes in every trip. We provide general guidelines, guest information on dietary restrictions and preferences and, most especially, the tools for a constant updating of our cooks’ knowledge in both Peruvian and International cuisine through specialization courses and training.
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The Best Camping Equipment
Enjoy a good night’s sleep in our spacious Eureka tent. All our tents are built to be four man tents, but you will only have to share with one other trekker. This leaves a lot of room to spread out comfortably and store your duffels. They are an A-frame design, with entrances on both sides of the tent. They also include a vestibule in front, giving you some extra outdoor space to leave your boots and walking sticks. We are proud to be the only company to use these tents.
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Find the Perfect Destination in Peru
With astonishingly varied landscapes, stunning scenery, compelling history, and a legacy of fascinating cultures, there is truly something for everyone. Our expeditions in Peru are designed to showcase all that this country has to offer.
Our expeditions in Peru are designed to showcase all that this country has to offer.
Inca Trail Peru Travel Guide
We hope that this Peru & Inca Trail travel guide will serve as a reference for you to prepare for and undertake an exceptional and seamless journey through this “Empire of Hidden Treasures.”
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Inca Trail Highlights
Here are the highlights you’ll enjoy on this trek:
- Experience one of the most famous and impressive trekking routes in the world.
- Walk along an ancient path surrounded by spectacular landscapes and stunning views of the Andean mountains.
- Enter Machu Picchu through the mythical Sun Gate, the original entrance used by the Incas.
- Travel back in time as you hike along ancestral trails that connect you with the living history of the Andes.
- Discover the secrets of the ancient Inca civilization by visiting fascinating archaeological sites.
- Explore a journey full of culture, nature, and mysticism that will stay in your memory forever.
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What to Expect on the Trail?
To help you prepare as best as possible for this trip, it’s a good idea to know what to expect in advance. We’ve created a list to help you.
Effects of the Altitude
When booking this trip, keep in mind that some parts of the route reach high altitudes, going up to 4,200 meters above sea level (13,780 feet). This can cause you to feel tired more easily or experience symptoms of altitude sickness.
Altitude can lead to headaches, nausea, and fatigue, so to ensure you don’t suffer from altitude sickness, we recommend spending 2 to 3 days acclimatizing in the city of Cusco before starting your trek.
There Are No Showers
That’s right — there are no showers along the entire route. There are only a few spots with basins or containers where you can freshen up a bit. To maintain good hygiene, we recommend bringing a change of clothes for each day and some body wipes. It’s a practical and effective solution during the trek.
It’s a Challenge
It’s not the toughest hike in the world, but it’s not an easy one either. In addition to the high altitude, much of the route follows the original Inca Trail, which means you’ll encounter many stone-paved sections that can put strain on your knees, ankles, and feet. That’s why it’s essential to wear proper footwear that offers good support and comfort throughout the trek.
You’ll See Plenty of Other Hikers
Since this trail is one of the most popular in the world, you'll meet people from all over the globe. It can be exciting to make new friends and share this experience with many other travelers. However, you should be prepared to share the path with several groups along the way.
To Learn a Lot of History
Along the route, you’ll visit impressive archaeological sites where your expert guide will teach you all about the area and Inca history. You’ll also receive plenty of information as you walk, so get ready to learn more about our ancestors and their extraordinary civilization.
See Some Wonderful Scenery
Hiking through the majestic Andes along an ancient Inca trail will reward you with truly breathtaking landscapes. From towering mountains to the lush greenery of the cloud forest, every part of the route offers stunning natural beauty. The region’s flora and fauna are equally fascinating, so make sure to bring a good camera to capture every moment.
Different Climates
As you climb toward the mountain’s summit, you’ll experience cold temperatures, but you’ll also descend into the jungle, where the climate is much warmer and more humid. In places like Aguas Calientes and Machu Picchu, humidity is constant and mosquitoes are common, so we recommend bringing insect repellent and appropriate clothing to adapt to the changing weather throughout the trek.
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Where is the Inca Trail?
The Inca Trail is in Peru in South America. It’s located in the Andean mountain range in the department of Cusco. It ends at Machu Picchu, one of the New Seven Wonders of the World.
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Difficulty Level
The Inca Trail is considered relatively difficult by most people. The altitude, elevation changes, and uneven terrain contribute to its challenging nature. The classic route covers a total of 44 km (27.34 miles), spread over 4 days of hiking. We have porters who carry our backpacks, which helps make the experience a bit easier.
The large number of steps can also put strain on your knees and ankles. Overall, we rate this trek as moderate, with both challenging and easier sections. The last two days involve shorter distances, allowing you to conserve energy and fully enjoy your visit to Machu Picchu.
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Inca Trail Facts
Now to share our top facts about the Inca Trail.
- There are only 500 permits available per day, including guides, cooks, and porters from the tour agencies. That means only about 200 are left for visitors from around the world.
- The Classic Inca Trail is just a small part of an ancient 45,000 km (27,962 miles) network of Inca roads that connected the entire Empire with its capital in Cusco.
- The highest point of the route is Dead Woman’s Pass (Warmi Wañusca), which is located at 4,215 meters (13,829 feet).
- Only Inca Trail hikers can enter Machu Picchu through the Sun Gate (Inti Punku) and enjoy a fantastic view of the Inca citadel at sunrise.
- The Classic 4-day Inca Trail covers a total distance of 44 km (27.34 miles). It begins at kilometer 82 of the railway that runs from Cusco to Aguas Calientes, near the town of Ollantaytambo in the Sacred Valley. This Km 82 point is accessed by land transport from Cusco. From there, the trek to the Inca citadel of Machu Picchu begins.
- You need to stay alert and plan ahead, as tickets sell out quickly. Sales open up to a year in advance, but the exact release date is usually announced only 3 to 7 days beforehand. That’s why it’s important to be ready to purchase as soon as they become available.
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Inca Trail Tips
Below are some useful tips to help you with preparation for your trip.
- Before the trip, gradually increase the distance you walk each day to prepare for the trek.
- Follow a daily workout routine that includes cardiovascular training, strength exercises, and stretching.
- Allow 2-3 days to acclimate in the city of Cusco before your trek to get your body used to the high altitude.
- Speak to a doctor in your country before you travel to Cusco to discuss any possible altitude medications. One is Diamox that may be considered. Always be aware of potential side effects if you’re going to take medicine.
- Once you arrive in Cusco, drink as little to no alcohol as possible. This will dehydrate you and make trekking in the high altitude a lot more difficult and make you more susceptible to sickness.
- Bring the right gear. Wear comfortable trekking boots, layered clothing, a rain jacket, sunscreen, a hat, and insect repellent.
- Consider using walking sticks to help you along the way. There are steps to descend, and these can greatly reduce the impact on your joints.
- Make sure you pace yourself on the trek. It’s not a race and some people will go faster and slower than you. Listen to your body and go with the flow. You’ll be thankful you did.
- Be sure to drink enough water to keep you hydrated and your energy levels up.
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Recommendations
Finally, to make your trip go as smoothly as possible, here are a few final recommendations.
Plan Your Trip in Advance
Remember that the Inca Trail will sell out months in advance, so to avoid disappointment, you need to book as far in advance as you can.
Make Use of a Packing List
Take a look at our Inca Trail packing list. Your heavier belongings will be carried by our porters in a duffel bag, but you can only include up to 7 kg (15.4 lb). Pack versatile and useful items. Space is limited, so make sure to bring all the essentials.
Come at the Right Time of Year
There are two main seasons in the Andes: the dry season and the rainy season. The Inca Trail is most popular from May to October (dry season), when the days are warm and sunny, though the nights can be cold. From November to April (rainy season), the trek can be more challenging but there are fewer hikers. Keep in mind that the Inca Trail is closed in February for maintenance.
Take Note of Age Limits
There are no official age restrictions on the Inca Trail, but most tour companies recommend — and some require — a minimum age of 12 as a safety precaution.
Opt for Travel Insurance
Most travelers purchase travel insurance before arriving in Peru, and it’s highly recommended. We suggest choosing a policy that covers adventure activities to ensure you’re fully protected.
Take Snacks
Although Salkantay Trekking provides snacks and meals along the route, you might want to bring some extra food. There are no shops along the trail, so we recommend packing a few light snacks to help keep your energy up during the hike. Nuts are a great option.
Tipping
Tipping is not mandatory, but it’s a common practice and greatly appreciated by the team. The amount is entirely up to you and can reflect your level of satisfaction with the service.
Quality Service
For us quality of experience is only second to safety
We are committed to providing world-class trekking experiences for our guests that go way above and beyond the mass-produced tours so common today.
This trip exceeded my expectations. Worth every single penny - the guide, the porters, the chefs, the group - everyone made this experience incredible.
Liam Brown
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