The Inca Trail to Machu Picchu in Peru is perhaps the most legendary and popular hiking trails in the world. It is so popular that the government had to limit the number of people and the trail is still booked up months ahead, particularly in the high season of May-September.
The 4-day trail, the most traditional route, hikes from ruin to ruin, over high mountain passes, through cloud forests and jungle and stone steps built by the Inca people. The final leg goes directly to the ruins of Machu Picchu.
The Inca Trail that everyone knows is not exactly the only trail. The Inca highway, or Kapaj’Nan actually extends from the border of Colombia and Ecuador to Chile. Through most of the Andes mountain chain. Some 14,000 miles.
A basic package costs between $300-400 which includes all transport, food, mules, guides, entrance fees, and tents. Valid ISIC student cards will give you a slight discount on the trek. The cheaper you pay, the more likely the porters are getting less, so be sure to tip the porters who cook for you and carry heavy loads with little rest.
Cusco is the best to arrange the trek and hundreds of companies are there to assist you. Some are better than others. Paying a bit more and going with a better company is sometimes the best thing you can do. For a list of recommended companies, contact the South American Explorers Clubhouse in Cusco. The trail is booked 2 months ahead during the high season, so it is best to arrange well in advance online or by phone. New regulations require that you go with a licensed guide. Hence, you cannot do it on your own.
New regulations have limited the number of trekkers and staff to about 500 per day. This is an incredible number for one trail and you will almost always see other large groups as you walk and camp. The maximum group size is 16 people.
The 45 kilometer trek takes four days, although the 4th day is spent at Machu Picchu and taking the train back to Cusco. Many people prefer to take an alternative trail such as Salkantay, which is more of a nature trail and still goes to Machu Picchu or other area treks such as to the Lares Valley or Choquequirao. A 2-day Inca trail trek continues on the same trail as the original, however, it starts at Kilometer 104 rather than Kilometer 88. Another option is to take the train direct from Cusco or Ollantaytambo, stay in agues Caliente where there are many lodging and dining options and take the train back without hiking a meter.
