How Long Does It Take to Hike Machu Picchu? Trekking Times & Best Routes

Introduction: Understanding the Trekking Time to Machu Picchu

Machu Picchu is one of the most sought-after hiking destinations in the world. Whether you’re looking for an intense multi-day trek or a shorter journey, knowing how long to hike Machu Picchu is crucial for planning. Depending on the trail, your fitness level, and the weather, the Machu Picchu hike duration can vary significantly. This guide breaks down the different trek options and how much time you need for each.

Classic Inca Trail: The Traditional Route (4 Days, 3 Nights)

The most famous trekking route, the Classic Inca Trail, takes approximately four days and three nights to complete. This hike covers about 42 kilometers (26 miles) and requires moderate to high fitness levels.

Day-by-Day Breakdown:

• Day 1: Cusco to Km 82; hike to Wayllabamba (approx. 12 km, 6-7 hours)
• Day 2: Challenging ascent to Dead Woman’s Pass, reaching 4,215m altitude (10 km, 7-8 hours)
• Day 3: Descend through cloud forests and Inca ruins (16 km, 8-9 hours)
• Day 4: Early morning trek to Sun Gate and arrival at Machu Picchu (5 km, 2-3 hours)

This route is known for its historical significance and stunning Inca ruins along the way. Due to its popularity, permits sell out months in advance.

Short Inca Trail: A Faster Option (2 Days, 1 Night)

For those with limited time, the Short Inca Trail offers a condensed experience in just two days and one night.

Key Highlights:

• Starts at Km 104 on the train route from Cusco
• Covers 10-12 km of hiking, taking 6-7 hours on the first day
• Arrive at Machu Picchu in the afternoon and return the next day

This route provides a great balance of trekking and exploring Machu Picchu without the full four-day commitment.

Salkantay Trek: A Scenic Alternative (5 Days, 4 Nights)

For those seeking a more adventurous route, the Salkantay Trek is a fantastic alternative to the Inca Trail. It takes five days and four nights and covers around 72 km (45 miles).

Why Choose the Salkantay Trek?

• Passes through breathtaking high-altitude landscapes
• No permit restrictions compared to the Inca Trail
• Takes longer but offers more remote and scenic beauty

The highlight of this trek is the Salkantay Pass, which reaches 4,650m altitude, making it one of the more challenging hikes to Machu Picchu.

Alternative Routes: Lares Trek & Inca Jungle Trail

Lares Trek (3-4 Days)

• Takes 3-4 days to complete
• Focuses on cultural interactions with local Andean communities
• Covers approximately 36 km (22 miles)

Inca Jungle Trail (4 Days)

• Includes hiking, mountain biking, and zip-lining
• More of an adventurous and varied route to Machu Picchu

How Many Days to Hike Machu Picchu? Choosing the Right Trek

If you’re wondering how many days to hike Machu Picchu, the answer depends on your fitness level, available time, and preferred experience:

• 1-2 days: Short Inca Trail for a quick but rewarding journey
• 3-4 days: Classic Inca Trail or Lares Trek for a balance of history and adventure
• 5+ days: Salkantay Trek or extended treks for a more immersive experience

Machu Picchu Hiking Difficulty: Is It for Everyone?

Trekking to Machu Picchu requires a good level of physical fitness, but difficulty varies by route:

• Classic Inca Trail: Moderate to challenging due to altitude
• Short Inca Trail: Moderate, suitable for most hikers
• Salkantay Trek: Challenging due to high altitude and longer duration
• Lares Trek: Moderate, more focused on cultural experiences

Acclimatization is crucial, especially for hikes that exceed 4,000 meters (13,000 feet).

Best Season to Hike Machu Picchu

Choosing the right season affects your experience:

• Dry Season (May – September): Best weather, but higher crowds
• Wet Season (November – March): Fewer crowds, but trails may be muddy
• Shoulder Seasons (April & October): Ideal balance between good weather and fewer tourists

Plan Your Machu Picchu Trek Today!

Now that you know how long it takes to hike Machu Picchu, it’s time to choose your adventure! Whether you prefer the Classic Inca Trail, the Salkantay Trek, or an alternative route, planning in advance ensures the best experience.

Book your Machu Picchu tour today!

Conclusion

The time needed for a Machu Picchu trek varies based on the route you choose. Whether you opt for the Classic Inca Trail, the Short Inca Trail, or the Salkantay Trek, each offers a unique experience. By understanding the trekking times, difficulty levels, and best seasons to hike, you can plan the perfect trip. Ready for the adventure of a lifetime? Start your journey to Machu Picchu today!