Inca Trail

This legendary trek to Machu Picchu, considered one of the top five treks in the world, usually takes four days and three nights of hiking. The twenty-six mile route wends up into the Andes, through cloud forest, over Dead Woman’s Pass and ends with a sunrise arrival at Machu Picchu. There are actually numerous routes, some more difficult than others. The most popular one, which even attracts families with one- or two-year-old children in backpacks, starts at Kilometre 82 and offers group departures daily. The one with the most spectacular scenery requires seven days of hiking, ascends to very high passes and begins near Mollabamba. The easiest route can be done in only two days and begins at Kilometer 104. Permits are required for all treks. To be paired with an excellent local outfitter—they range from backpacking groups to high-end operators who provide porters, cooks and even proper portable bathhouses—contact the Indagare Bookings Team. The best time for Inca Trail treks is between May and September when the trails are driest. Other times of the year, when there is more frequent rains, the hikes can be quite muddy and unpleasant.