Inca Trail Trek FAQs

The Inca Trail to Machu Picchu has been coined in many guidebooks as the ‘best short trek in the world’ and with a bit of training, almost anyone can walk the Inca Trail, but only with a permit.

Specialising in high-quality treks along the Inca Trail and to Machu Picchu for more than three decades, here’s everything you need to know about hiking the Inca Trail, with bonus tips from our adventure experts.

Jump to a section:
How difficult is it to walk the Inca Trail? What is the terrain like?
How can I prepare for the trek?
How many hours a day do you walk?
How can I avoid altitude sickness?
Can I walk the Inca Trail myself? How can I get a permit?
Why do I need a permit?
What if I can't get a permit?
Can I visit the Sun Gate without having to hike the Inca Trail?
I want to visit Machu Picchu but want to try a different trek to the classic Inca Trail. What are some alternatives?
When is the best time to walk the Inca Trail?
What climates can I expect?
What gear should I bring with me?
How much time can I spend at the Machu Picchu sanctuary?
What can I do at the Machu Picchu sanctuary?
What can’t be brought into the Machu Picchu sanctuary?
What will I eat along the trail?
What is the accommodation like?
How does World Expeditions do the Inca Trail differently?
Which trail should I choose?

How difficult is it to walk the Inca Trail? What is the terrain like?

It’s not our most challenging trek, but you will be walking over hilly and rugged terrain with lots of stairs. 

Expect some long, steep ascents too...

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How can I prepare for the Inca Trail trek?

The more training you do beforehand, the more you will enjoy your trek...

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How many hours a day do you walk on the Inca Trail?

The trekking day very much depends on the condition of the trails...

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How can I avoid altitude sickness on the Inca Trail?

Altitude is also an important factor to consider...

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Can I walk the Inca Trail myself? How can I get a permit?

No, you need a permit to walk the Inca Trail...

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Why do I need an Inca Trail permit?

Machu Picchu stands much the same as it did hundreds of years ago...

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What if I can't get an Inca Trail permit?

If you miss out on a permit, World Expeditions has developed several brilliant alternatives...

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Can I visit the Sun Gate without having to hike the Inca Trail?

Yes, everyone who has an entrance ticket for Machu Picchu can walk up to the Inti Punku...

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I want to visit Machu Picchu but want to try a different trek...

The classic Inca Trail is a quintessential Peruvian trek...

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When is the best time to walk the Inca Trail?

The main trekking season in Peru lasts from late April to mid-October...

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What climates can I expect on the Inca Trail?

Variance in latitude, elevation and local winds all factor...

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What gear should I bring with me on the Inca Trail?

Essential trekking gear includes merino socks...

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How much time can I spend at the Machu Picchu sanctuary?

There are three time slots in which patrons can enter Machu Picchu...

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What can I do at the Machu Picchu sanctuary?

On many of our Inca Trail trips, travellers are treated to a unique second visit...

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What can’t be brought into the Machu Picchu sanctuary?

The following items are prohibited in Machu Picchu: drones, selfie sticks...

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What will I eat along the Inca Trail?

We provide a full service while on the trek, including three hearty meals a day...

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What is the accommodation like on the Inca Trail trek?

In cities or large towns, you will be accommodated in three to four-star properties...

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How does World Expeditions do the Inca Trail differently?

The Classic Inca Trail trek ensures you are well acclimatised to the altitude...

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Which Inca Trail trip should I choose?

Jungle trails, cloud forests and panoramic views of Andean peaks...

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