What is the Inca Trail?
The Inca Trauk to Machu Picchu, also known as the Inca Trail or Camino Inka, is a famous hiking route in Peru that culminates in Machu Picchu. This route includes three main trails: Mollepata, Classic and Inca Trail Full Day . Mollepata is the longest route and has the highest mountain pass, intersecting with the Classic route before crossing Warmiwañusqa ("Dead Woman Pass"). Located in the Andes mountain range, the road crosses various Andean environments, such as cloud forest and alpine tundra. Along the trail you can find settlements, tunnels and numerous Inca ruins before reaching the Puerta del Sol on the mountain of Machu Picchu. The two longest routes involve ascending to more than 4,200 meters (13,800 ft) above sea level, which can cause altitude sickness.
![Inca Trail to Machu Picchu Inca Trail to Machu Picchu](https://www.imperiostravel.com/images/inca-trail-to-machu-picchu.webp)
Concern about overuse and resulting erosion has led the Peruvian government to place a limit on the number of people who can hike this trail each season, as well as significantly restricting the companies authorized to offer guides. Therefore, it is mandatory to make a reservation in advance. A maximum of 500 people per day are allowed on the trail, of which only 200 are hikers and the rest are guides and porters. As a result, peak season fills up quickly.
The Inca Trail, used by the Incas to reach Machu Picchu , is today the most famous route for tourists who want to reach it on foot. This sacred trail allows travelers to view numerous archaeological sites, such as Llaqtapata, Runkuraqhay and Wiñayhuayna, before reaching the iconic sacred city of Machu Picchu.
![Inca Trail to Machu Picchu 2 days - Wiñayhuayna Inca Trail to Machu Picchu](https://perutravel.net/img/camino-inca-by-wi%C3%B1ayhuayna.webp)
The Inca Trail is not just a hike, it is an immersion in the rich history and culture of the ancient Incas. Along the tour, visitors can enjoy stunning views of the Andean landscapes, discover historic ruins, and experience the majesty of one of humanity's most precious heritages. Ending this adventure in Machu Picchu, after days of exploration and effort, is an unforgettable reward that leaves a deep mark in the heart of each traveler. Join us and experience the magic of the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu.