The Inca Trail is the network of stone paths the Incas built to reach Machu Picchu. The classic route covers about 40 km in four days, passes several archaeological sites and ends at the Sun Gate (Intipunku), with your first view of the citadel.
Available routes
- Classic 4-day Inca Trail: the full experience, with three nights of camping.
- Short 2-day Inca Trail: one day of hiking from km 104 and a night in Aguas Calientes.
Permits
Access is regulated and daily permits are limited. Only authorized agencies can sell them, with each hiker’s name and passport. For May to August, book four to six months in advance.
Annual closure
The Inca Trail closes every February for maintenance. Machu Picchu stays open that month.
