Quick answer: take the classic Inca Trail if you want a four-day trek through cloud forest and Inca ruins, ending at the Sun Gate, and you can book months ahead. Take the train if you’re short on time, want comfort, didn’t get a permit, or prefer not to hike at high altitude. There’s also a middle way: the one-day Short Inca Trail, or an alternative trek such as Salkantay.
Side-by-side comparison
| Classic Inca Trail | Train | |
|---|---|---|
| Time | 4 days / 3 nights (about 42 km / 26 miles) | About 1.5–2 hours from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes |
| Highest point | Dead Woman’s Pass, 4,215 m (13,828 ft) | No climbing |
| Booking | Permits limited; must go with a licensed operator | Book train tickets online; easy |
| Availability | Sells out months ahead for peak season; closed in February | Year-round |
| Effort | Moderate to hard; long climbs and stone steps | None |
| Experience | Ruins along the way, Sun Gate arrival | Scenic valley views; luxury trains available |
| Cost | Higher (tour, permit, guide, porters) | Lower |
The classic Inca Trail
The four-day trek follows an original Inca path from the Sacred Valley to Machu Picchu, passing ruins such as Wiñay Wayna that you can only reach on foot. The second day crosses Dead Woman’s Pass at 4,215 m, the hardest part of the hike.
Permits and rules
- The government limits the trail to about 500 people a day, including guides and porters, so only around 200 places go to hikers (Intrepid Travel).
- You must hike with a licensed tour operator; independent hiking isn’t allowed.
- You need your passport details to book.
- Next year’s permits are released around October; for June–August, book at least five to six months ahead.
- The trail closes every February for maintenance.
Who it suits
Reasonably fit hikers who are comfortable camping and walking 6–8 hours a day for several days. Acclimatise in Cusco or the Sacred Valley for two or three days first; see our guide to altitude sickness in Cusco.
Taking the train
Trains run from Ollantaytambo (and some from near Cusco) to Aguas Calientes, the town below Machu Picchu. From there, buses climb to the site in about 25 minutes, or you can walk up steep steps in about 1–1.5 hours. Options range from budget “Expedition” or “Voyager” carriages to luxury services. Book early in high season, especially for good morning departures.
In-between options
- Short Inca Trail (1 day): about 12 km from Km 104, passing Wiñay Wayna and arriving through the Sun Gate. It also needs a permit and operator.
- Salkantay Trek (4–5 days): a higher, wilder alternative with fewer permit restrictions.
- Lares Trek: quieter trails through Andean villages, then train to Aguas Calientes.
Which should you choose?
- Choose the Inca Trail if the hike itself is a highlight, you can book early and you have 4+ days.
- Choose the train for limited time, young children, mobility limits or if permits are gone.
- Choose the Short Inca Trail to get the Sun Gate arrival without camping.
Frequently asked questions
How hard is the Inca Trail?
Moderate to hard, mainly because of altitude and long stone staircases. Fit beginners usually manage with good preparation.
Can I hike the Inca Trail without a guide?
No. You must go with a licensed operator.
How long is the train to Machu Picchu?
About 1.5–2 hours from Ollantaytambo.
Is the Inca Trail open in February?
No, it closes every February for maintenance.
Sources: Intrepid Travel – Inca Trail permits. Rules and prices change, so check official sources before you travel.
Keep reading
- Machu Picchu Elevation Guide
- Lima to Machu Picchu: How to Get There
- Huayna Picchu vs Machu Picchu Mountain
Hi, I am Emam Hasan — founder and editor of BrokeMountain. I oversee this blog’s hiking, camping and outdoor gear guides, making sure every article is well-researched, accurate and genuinely helpful for your time on the trail. Enjoy it!
