Why You Must Hike The Inca Trail In Peru

One of the most complete and thrilling hiking adventures you can experience, the Inca Trail is a bucket-list must for those who head to Peru in South America.

The full adventure lasts four days, and has quite the itinerary. Here we will re-trace the same exact stone steps the ancient Inca once did to reach Machu Picchu, learn the traditions of the indigenous communities that still live along the route, and also experience some unforgettable Andean scenery.

In this article we’ll explore some of the best reasons that you should hike the Inca Trail, and why it’s a must if you ever visit Peru and South America.

The Best Reasons Why You Should Hike The Inca Trail

Ancient History Along The Route

Built within the 15th century by the Inca civilization – who were one of Peru’s most formidable cultures to ever exist – it’s impressive what they were able to create in just a few hundred years of ruling. Machu Picchu remains the star highlight of the Four Day Inca Trail Hike, however other crumbling ruins can only be spotted whilst on the Inca Trail, such as those of Wiñay Wayna, Sayacmarca and Runkurakay. With an expert lead tour guide on hand, you’ll experience first-hand how they were able to create and expand as quickly as they did.

Meet Indigenous Communities And Native Wildlife

While the Inca were quick to both rise and fall, what they left behind remains just as remarkable. However many direct ancestors of the Inca still reside within the Andes Mountains of Peru, and especially around the Inca Trail region. Speaking their native Quechua language, we’ll meet locals both along the hike in indigenous villages, but also on our own hiking team as local porters and cooks join us on the adventure. AB Expeditions are a perfect company to hike the Inca Trail with if you want real Andean culture, who are 100% locally owned and knit-together a more intimate and cultural experience for you.

Incredible Natural Andean Landscapes

As if the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu wasn’t enough with all the ruins, wildlife and cheerful local communities waiting for you, there’s also the unbelievable scenery too. Now whilst we won’t see snow-capped mountains and glaciers like we would on the Ausangate Trek in Peru, we will still see giant jagged Andean peaks all around as we venture forwards. This begins to change to misty cloud forests – with a highlight being around the Sayaqmarca Ruins – before venting down into the warmer, high Amazon Jungle of which Machu Picchu towers above.

A Varied Multi-Day Adventure Before Reaching Machu Picchu 

As we’ve already seen above, on the Inca Trail we will experience a dramatic change in scenery and landscapes each day that passes. This includes rising up to the Dead Woman’s Pass on the Second Day – which is the highest altitude point at 4215m – to hiking deep through the cloud forests. However our campsites will also bring different incredible views during our evenings of rest as our surroundings change, where we will also learn more about the incredible local culture with every new step we take.

One Of South America’s Best All-Inclusive Hikes

As if all of the above hasn’t already convinced you to head on the Inca Trail hike, it’s also great to know that it’s an all-inclusive experience. Once you book your trek, you’ll have all lodging, camping gear, buffet-style meals and extra equipment included in the price you pay. This also includes a personal porter who will help carry your items for you, as well as both your Inca Trail and Machu Picchu permit (the latter of which will be needed with or without the Inca Trail when visiting the sacred site).

A Great Hiking Experience Year-Round

Aside from being closed in February for restoration efforts and preservation, the Inca Trail is open year-round for hiking – with each season offering something slightly different. The most popular dry season (which runs from May until October) is best for clear blue skies, rain-free weather and the best Andes views. However the wet season (November until April) also has its surprise perks – which include quieter and more peaceful trails, as well as more vivid green scenery and active wildlife given the extra rains.

Overview Of The Inca Trail Hike

Machu Picchu remains one of the world’s most incredible bucket-list destinations, and especially as it’s ranked as one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. However the Inca Trail which leads to this site is where the real magic begins.

Here we can experience a whole new world of sacred history, immersive experiences and warm local cultures – and that’s without even mentioning that the hike includes all of your meals, camping equipment and a professional local guide to lead the way. 

So if heading on a once-in-a-lifetime hike is something that you’re thinking of – then the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu in Peru really delivers on all fronts.