The vast Inca’s Empire was connected by an extense Inca trail system. The Classic Inca Trail is the most popular trail in Peru. This is the only trail that has as final destination, Machu Picchu. There are several places from where it is possible to start the Inca Trail, but the most popular one is the Classic Inca Trail which consists of a hike of 4 Days and 3 Nights.

 

The Classic Inca Trail is located in Cusco, Peru. If you would like to hike the Inca Trail, you will need to have permit because the Peruvian government only allows 500 people per day. The only way to get a permit is by hiring a registered tour operator or a travel agency working directly with a tour operator. All tour operators and travel agencies offer packages including the permit and other services. It is important to get book your Inca Trail with a travel agency or tour operator that is going to provide you the service that you are paying for.

 

The Classic Inca Trail starts at the kilometer 82 where the small Andean community of Piskacucho is located. Piskacucho is located about 8,500 feet above sea level. On the way to your first campsite you will be able to observe the Urubamba River, beautiful nevadoes, and the ruins of Huillcaraccay, Patallacta, and Pulpituyoc. Wayllabamba is the name of your first campsite and is located about 10,160 feet above sea level.

 

The second day of the Inca Trail is the most difficult one because you will hike at a constant incline until you reach the first pass named Warmiwañuska or Dead Women’s Pass which is located about 13,770 feet above sea level. This is the highest point of the Inca Trail and you will be able to enjoy a beautiful view. Your second campsite is named Pacaymayo which is located about 11,800 feet above sea level. This is a a magical spot where you will enjoy of the mystical view provided by a sky full of stars.

 

The third day of the Inca Trail is the most beautiful one. A magical path is going to take you to your next campsite named Wiñaywayna. Right after starting the day, you will visit the ruins of Runkurakay and then you will recah to the second pass named Runkurakay located about 12,330 feet above sea level. On the way to your last campiste, you will visit the ruins of Sayacmarca and Phuyupatamarca. Once at Wiñaywayna, you might visit the ruins of the same name.

 

The fourth day of the Inca Trail, you will wake up very early and then you will start your hike at about 5:30a.m. in order to arrive at dawn to the Gate of the Sun or Intipunku which is located about 8,920 feet above sea level. If it is not cloudy, you will have an incredible view of Machu Picchu. Once at Machu Picchu, your guide will take you to the main temples and rooms of Machu Picchu for about two hours. Later on, you will take a bus to Aguas Calientes. Once in Aguas Calientes, you will take a train to Ollantaytambo and then a transfer will drive to your hotel in Cusco.

 

Hiking the Inca Trail is an amazing experience wich you will never forgetin your life. In order to be ready to hike the Inca Trail, you should acclimatize to the altitude of Cusco. Also, you should be in shape to really enjoy the trek. If you are not used to hike, the service of a an extra porter should be hired to carry your personal belongings.