Hike to Machu Picchu, and what is the difficulty level

How long does it take to hike to Machu Picchu, and what is the difficulty level

Hiking to Machu Picchu is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that many adventure seekers dream of. But how long does it take to hike to Machu Picchu, and what is the difficulty level of the various hiking routes? In this article, we’ll explore the answers to these questions and more.

Machu Picchu can be reached via several hiking routes, each with its own level of difficulty and duration. The most famous hiking route is the Inca Trail, which typically takes 4 days to complete. The Inca Trail is a challenging trek that requires a moderate to high level of fitness, as it involves climbing steep stairs and navigating uneven terrain.

If you’re looking for an alternative to the Inca Trail, there are several other hiking routes to consider. The 4-day Salkantay trek is a popular option that takes you through stunning landscapes and offers a mix of challenging terrain and easier stretches. The 4-day Cachicata trek is another great option, featuring ancient ruins and breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains.

For those who want a less strenuous hiking experience, the 4-day Inca Quarry Trail is a great choice. This route takes you through less rugged terrain and offers a chance to visit lesser-known Incan ruins along the way.

The  Classic Inca Trail

The Inca Trail is the most famous and popular route to Machu Picchu. It covers a distance of approximately 26 miles (42 km) and takes around 4 days to complete. The trek begins in the Sacred Valley and takes you through stunning mountain scenery, past ancient ruins, and through lush cloud forests. The trail reaches an altitude of 4,200 meters (13,780 feet) at its highest point, so it is important to be in good physical condition to complete the trek.

The Salkantay Trek

The 4-day Salkantay trek is a great alternative to the Inca Trail. This trek takes you through diverse landscapes, including snow-capped mountains, high-altitude passes, and lush jungle. The trek covers a distance of approximately 44 miles (71 km) and reaches an altitude of 4,650 meters (15,256 feet) at its highest point. The Salkantay trek is considered moderately challenging, and it’s important to be in good physical condition to complete the trek.

The Cachicata Trek

The 4-day Cachicata trek is another great option for those looking to explore Machu Picchu via an alternative route. This trek takes you through beautiful mountain scenery and past ancient Incan ruins. The trek covers a distance of approximately 28 miles (45 km) and reaches an altitude of 4,450 meters (14,600 feet) at its highest point. The Cachicata trek is considered moderately challenging, and it’s important to be in good physical condition to complete the trek.

The Inca Quarry Trail

The 4-day Inca Quarry Trail is a great option for those who want a less strenuous hiking experience. This trek takes you through beautiful mountain scenery and past lesser-known Incan ruins. The trek covers a distance of approximately 16 miles (26 km) and reaches an altitude of 4,450 meters (14,600 feet) at its highest point. The Inca Quarry Trail is considered less challenging than the Inca Trail and the other alternative treks.

In conclusion

there are several hiking routes to Machu Picchu, each with its own level of difficulty and duration. The most famous route is the Inca Trail, which takes 4 days to complete and requires a moderate to high

To plan your trip and learn more about the different tour packages available, contact Inti Sun Trek Peru, a top-rated Peru tour operator that specializes in the Inca Trail and other Peruvian destinations.