The Inca Trail is one of the world’s most iconic hikes. It's a 4-day trek that winds through mountain passes, cloud forests, and Inca ruins, ending with a dramatic arrival at Machu Picchu’s Sun Gate.

This trail had been on our bucket list for years and it ended up being one of the most rewarding experiences of our lives. It was tough at times, especially climbing Dead Woman’s Pass, but the mix of stunning scenery, ancient ruins along the way, and the camaraderie of our group made it unforgettable. Walking through the Sun Gate and seeing Machu Picchu spread out below felt like the perfect reward.

👉 What to Know:

• You must hike with a licensed guide/company. Independent trekking is not allowed. We chose Salkantay Trekking and absolutely loved our experience with them.

• Permits are limited (and sell out months in advance).

• Porters carry much of the gear. We chose a company that’s locally owned and takes great care of their porters (something we strongly recommend looking into).

• There are shorter versions of the trail, like the 2-day, but the full 4-day hike is the classic.

Pro Tip: Train before you go, especially for the steep stairs and altitude. The effort is real, but so is the reward. This isn’t just a hike, it’s a journey through history.