The classic Inca Trail is a four-day walk along a preserved stretch of the original Inca road, finishing at the Sun Gate above Machu Picchu. This page is the practical itinerary: what each day involves, how it feels, and what to carry. For history and the bigger picture, read our complete Inca Trail guide, and if you are comparing operators see how to choose and book an Inca Trail tour.
The Trek at a Glance
| Day | Route | Approx. Distance | Character |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | KM 82 to Wayllabamba | 12 km | Gentle, rolling |
| 2 | Dead Woman's Pass to Pacaymayo | 11 km | Hardest climb, steep descent |
| 3 | Runkurakay, Sayacmarca, Phuyupatamarca to Wiñay Wayna | 16 km | Longest day, best ruins |
| 4 | Sun Gate to Machu Picchu | 5 to 6 km | Early start, short walk |
Distances are approximate and vary slightly by source and route variation.
Day-by-Day Itinerary
- 1Cusco to KM 82 and Wayllabamba
An early pickup and a drive to the trailhead, then a permit and passport check at the gate. The trail follows the Urubamba valley past the ruins of Llactapata. Expect around five to six hours of walking at a relaxed pace, finishing at the first campsite near Wayllabamba at roughly 3,000m.
- 2Dead Woman's Pass
An early start for the steady climb through cloud forest and then open highland to the pass at 4,215m. After the summit you drop steeply on stone steps to the valley and the second campsite near Pacaymayo, at around 3,600m. This is the longest and hardest day of effort.
- 3The Ruins Day
You climb to a second pass near Runkurakay, then pass Sayacmarca and walk through a short Inca tunnel before reaching Phuyupatamarca ("town above the clouds"). The afternoon is a long descent down stone steps to Wiñay Wayna and the final campsite, with a visit to the terraced ruins nearby.
- 4Sun Gate and Machu Picchu
A very early wake-up to queue at the final checkpoint. You walk to Inti Punku (the Sun Gate) for your first view of Machu Picchu, then descend into the citadel for a guided tour. Afterwards you take the bus to Aguas Calientes and the train back toward Cusco or Ollantaytambo.
Mornings start early. Day 4 wake-up can be around 3:30 to 4:00 am so you reach the checkpoint when it opens. Plan sleep and a headlamp accordingly.
What a Typical Day Looks Like
Porters usually leave camp before you, set up the next camp and have the dining tent ready when you arrive. Each morning you are woken with hot tea or coca tea, followed by breakfast prepared by the camp chef. You walk in the morning, stop for a cooked lunch, continue in the afternoon and reach camp in time for snacks, dinner and an early night.
The pace is steady rather than fast, with frequent stops for photos and ruins. The guide leads short talks at the main archaeological sites, so a full day often includes both walking and learning.
Packing List
🎒 Carry in Your Daypack
- Passport (required at the checkpoint)
- Rain jacket or poncho
- Warm layer and hat
- Sun hat, sunscreen and sunglasses
- Water bottle or bladder and snacks
- Camera, headlamp and personal medicine
👟 Wear or Pack in Your Duffel
- Broken-in hiking boots
- Quick-dry trekking pants and shirts
- Warm sleepwear and thermal layer
- Spare socks and underwear
- Trekking poles with rubber tips
- Insect repellent and wet wipes
Confirm with your operator what is supplied. Sleeping bags, mats and poles are often rentals, and duffel weight limits apply to porters.
How to Prepare
- Acclimatize first. Spend at least two days in Cusco or the Sacred Valley before starting. Our private tour packages are built around this.
- Train for stairs. Walk hills, use stairs and wear your boots for several weeks beforehand.
- Pick the right season. The dry months are the most reliable. See the best time to visit Peru.
- Book early. Permits are limited and sell out for peak dates.
What Is Included
4 Days / 3 Nights — From $900 per person
- Professional guide
- Inca Trail permit & entrance tickets
- Chefs and all trail meals
- Camping equipment carried by porters
- Train ticket back from Aguas Calientes
- Guided tour of Machu Picchu
Frequently Asked Questions
How long is the classic Inca Trail?
Roughly 43 km (about 26 miles) over four days and three nights, from the KM 82 trailhead to Machu Picchu.
What is the hardest day on the Inca Trail?
Day 2. You climb to Dead Woman's Pass at 4,215m, then descend steeply to the second campsite. Most trekkers find it the most demanding day of the trek.
Do I need to be very fit?
You need good general fitness and some hiking or stair-climbing practice. The trail is not technical, but altitude and long stone staircases make it harder than the distance suggests.
Do porters carry my bag?
Porters carry the group camping gear and food. You usually carry a daypack with water, layers, rain gear and personal items. Ask your operator about the personal porter option and weight limits.
Are there toilets and showers on the trail?
Campsites have basic toilet facilities. Showers are limited and vary by campsite, so bring wet wipes and a light towel.