Hiking the One-Day Inca Trail to Machu Picchu: What I Wish I’d Known
By Lara (Bursch) Deppisch | Bursch Travel
You’ve probably seen those incredible photos of travelers standing above Machu Picchu, surrounded by the dramatic green mountains of Peru. What you don’t see in those photos? The hours of climbing, the thin mountain air, and the determination it takes to get there!
I recently hiked the one-day Inca Trail to Machu Picchu with G Adventures, and it was one of the most challenging and rewarding travel experiences I’ve had. Having an experienced local guide made all the difference, especially during those steep climbs when we needed a little extra encouragement!
If you’re considering this adventure, I want to share what the hike was really like, what surprised me, and a few things I’d recommend before you go.
The Adventure Begins at KM 106
Our day started aboard a train from Ollantaytambo. The train ride itself was comfortable, with beautiful scenery along the way. One practical tip: take advantage of the clean bathroom onboard!
Then came our stop at KM 106, where we literally stepped off the train beside the tracks to begin our hike.
There’s something pretty exciting about starting an adventure that way. But we were about to find out just how much work those seven miles would involve.
Then came our stop at KM 106, where we literally stepped off the train beside the tracks to begin our hike.
There’s something pretty exciting about starting an adventure that way. But we were about to find out just how much work those seven miles would involve.
The Hardest Part? Those First 2.5 Hours!
I’m not going to sugarcoat this. The beginning of the hike was HARD.
For roughly the first two and a half hours, it felt like we were climbing stairs nonstop. And while the steps were challenging enough, the altitude made everything more difficult.
We stopped frequently just to catch our breath. You might be in great shape at home, but hiking at elevation is a completely different experience.
Thankfully, we had a wonderful local guide who seemed to know exactly when we needed a break. Those little pauses made a big difference.
My advice? Don’t underestimate this hike just because it’s called the one-day Inca Trail. Seven miles might not sound intimidating, but the elevation, uneven terrain, and steep climbs make it a serious physical challenge.
Ancient Ruins, Llamas, and Incredible Mountain Views
As challenging as the hike was, the scenery made every step worthwhile.
One of the highlights was passing through Wiñay Wayna, an incredible Inca archaeological site with stone terraces built into the mountainside.
We also encountered a few unexpected traffic jams—courtesy of the local llamas!
And then there were the views. We followed narrow mountain paths, with steep drop-offs and breathtaking scenery stretching out around us. It was spectacular, although definitely not a hike where you want to lose your footing.
Experiencing these places on foot gave me an entirely different appreciation for the history and landscape of Peru.
Reaching the Sun Gate: Worth Every Step
After lunch, the trail became a little easier as we made our way around the mountain.
And then came the moment we’d been working toward: arriving at the Sun Gate (Intipunku) and seeing Machu Picchu for the first time.
WOW.
After hours of hiking, climbing, and catching our breath, that first view was absolutely unforgettable.
I’ve seen countless photos of Machu Picchu, but experiencing it this way was completely different. Knowing how much effort it took to get there made the moment even more meaningful.
It was tough. It was breathtaking. And I would absolutely do it again.
Want to see more of the adventure? Photos only tell part of the story! I shared more pictures and videos from our one-day Inca Trail hike on Facebook, including some of those challenging climbs and the incredible scenery along the way.
See More Photos and Videos from My Inca Trail Hike on Facebook
What I Wish I’d Known Before Hiking the One-Day Inca Trail
If you’re considering this experience, here are my biggest recommendations.
1. Train for the Stairs—and the Altitude
Don’t think of this as an ordinary seven-mile walk. The uphill sections are demanding, and the thinner air makes them even harder.
I’d recommend building up your cardio fitness before your trip, especially with stairs, hills, or a StairMaster.
And remember that fitness alone doesn’t eliminate the effects of altitude. Give yourself time to acclimatize and discuss any altitude-related health concerns with your healthcare provider before traveling.
2. Think Carefully About the Time of Year
We hiked during Peru’s dry season, and even then, we encountered some tricky sections of trail.
I can’t imagine navigating some of those steps and narrow paths in heavy rain!
The dry season generally offers better hiking conditions, although weather in the mountains can be unpredictable any time of year.
3. Don’t Forget the Bug Spray
This one surprised me!
The tiny biting midges were no joke, and the itching afterward was miserable. Bring effective insect repellent and make sure you actually use it.
4. Pack the Essentials
A few things I’d definitely recommend bringing:
- Plenty of water
- Sunscreen and a hat
- Effective insect repellent
- Toilet paper or wipes
- Comfortable, broken-in hiking shoes
- Layers for changing mountain weather
- Trekking poles, if appropriate for your route and permitted by your operator
You’ll want to pack thoughtfully, since you’ll be carrying your essentials along the trail.
5. Choose a Great Guide
I can’t emphasize this enough.
Our experience with G Adventures and our local guide made such a difference. Having someone who understood the trail, the terrain, and when we needed to slow down was invaluable.
A knowledgeable guide also adds so much to the experience by sharing the history and significance of the places you’re seeing.
One-Day Inca Trail to Machu Picchu: Frequently Asked Questions
How difficult is the one-day Inca Trail hike?
In my experience, it was much harder than I expected! Although our hike was approximately seven miles, the steep stone steps, uneven terrain, and altitude made it physically demanding.
You don’t necessarily need to be an expert hiker, but I would recommend being comfortable with several hours of sustained uphill walking and preparing well in advance.
Is the one-day Inca Trail worth it?
Absolutely! Reaching Machu Picchu through the Sun Gate after hiking the Inca Trail was an incredible feeling.
If you enjoy active travel and want the journey to Machu Picchu to be part of the adventure, I think it’s an experience worth considering.
Can you visit Machu Picchu without hiking the Inca Trail?
Yes! You don’t have to complete a strenuous hike to experience Machu Picchu.
There are other ways to visit, including traveling by train and bus. If hiking isn’t your thing, you can still enjoy this remarkable destination.
A Bursch Travel advisor can help you explore the options and decide which experience is the best fit.
What is the best time of year to hike the Inca Trail?
I’d personally recommend considering the dry season, generally May through September, when conditions are often better for hiking.
We traveled during the dry season and still encountered challenging sections, so I would be especially cautious about attempting the trail in rainy conditions.
The Inca Trail also has seasonal closures and permit requirements, so planning ahead is important.
Do you need a guide for the one-day Inca Trail?
Yes, the regulated Inca Trail requires an authorized operator and guide. And after experiencing the hike myself, I wouldn’t want to do it any other way!
Our guide helped us navigate the trail, understand the history, and pace ourselves through the more difficult sections.
Is the One-Day Inca Trail Right for You?
This was one of those experiences that reminded me why I love to travel. It pushed me physically, took me somewhere incredibly beautiful, and gave me a sense of accomplishment I’ll never forget.
But it’s also not the right experience for everyone—and that’s okay!
There are different ways to visit Machu Picchu, and the best choice depends on your fitness level, interests, travel style, and how much adventure you’re looking for.
That’s where a Bursch Travel advisor can help. Whether you’re dreaming of hiking the Inca Trail, exploring Peru’s incredible history, or visiting Machu Picchu at a more relaxed pace, we can help you find the right itinerary and travel experience.
