Inca Trail

Qhapaq Ñan

The famous four-day hiking trail from the Sacred Valley to Machu Picchu, passing through cloud forests, high mountain passes, and multiple Incan archaeological sites. This trek is one of the world's most rewarding hikes and offers unparalleled views and cultural immersion.

Things to do

• Hike Huayna Picchu — Climb the steep stone steps of this iconic peak overlooking Machu Picchu for breathtaking views of the citadel and surrounding mountains.
• Explore Wiñay Wayna — Trek through this impressive cliff-side Incan settlement featuring terraces and temples, typically visited on day three of the Inca Trail.
• Cross Inti Punku (Sun Gate) — Reach this ceremonial entrance gate for the first glimpse of Machu Picchu at sunrise on the final day of the trek.
• Trek through Cloud Forest — Navigate the misty cloud forest ecosystems on days two and three, experiencing unique flora and diverse bird species.
• Summit Abra de Warmiwañusca — Ascend to the trail's highest point at 4,200 meters (13,780 feet) on day two for panoramic mountain vistas.
• Visit Runkuracay ruins — Explore this circular Incan checkpoint structure on day two that likely served as a way-station for travelers.
• Walk through Phuyupatamarca — Experience this ceremonial site with functioning Incan fountains and bathhouses situated at the cloud forest edge.

Food to try

• Ceviche — Fresh fish or seafood marinated in lime juice with cilantro, onions, and ají peppers, served in towns before and after the trek.
• Quinoa soup — Warm, nourishing soup made from ancient Andean quinoa grain served at trail lodges to replenish energy during the hike.
• Alpaca anticuchos — Grilled alpaca meat skewers marinated in spices and vinegar, a traditional Sacred Valley protein offering.
• Papa a la Huancaína — Boiled potatoes covered in a creamy yellow ají pepper sauce with cheese and nuts, a classic Peruvian comfort dish available in trail towns.
• Coca tea (mate de coca) — Brewed tea from coca leaves served throughout the trek to help with altitude acclimatization and boost energy.

Local customs & good to know

• Respect altitude acclimatization — Spend time in the Sacred Valley at lower elevations before starting the trek to adapt to high-altitude conditions and prevent soroche (altitude sickness).
• Practice Andean reciprocity (Ayni) — Embrace the principle of mutual aid by being helpful to local porters and guides, offering respect and gratitude as part of Incan cultural values.
• Honor sacred sites appropriately — Approach Incan ruins with reverence, refrain from touching or climbing on structures unnecessarily, and follow guide instructions regarding ceremonial spaces.
• Learn basic Quechua greetings — Using words like 'Napaykullayki' (hello) and 'Sulpayki' (thank you) in the local Quechua language demonstrates respect for indigenous culture.