Inca Trail Altitude, Elevation gain and Altitude Sickness.

Inca Trail to Machu Picchu Peru altitude

The Inca Trail to Machu Picchu 4 days is more than just a trekking route; it’s an experience blending history, stunning scenery, and an unforgettable personal challenge. From the majestic Dead Woman’s Pass to the iconic Sun Gate, each step on this 26-mile trail brings you closer to the legendary lost city of the Incas. But before embarking on this thrilling journey, it’s crucial to understand the challenges of altitude and how to properly prepare to fully enjoy this unique experience.

Altitude and Its Effects

The primary challenge of the Inca Trail is altitude. As you ascend winding paths, you quickly find yourself over 13,828 feet above sea level, with points like Dead Woman’s Pass reaching 13,828 feet. This altitude can affect anyone, regardless of fitness level, and it’s important to recognize symptoms of altitude sickness, from mild discomforts to more severe complications.

Altitude of campsites on the Inca Trail

1. Km 82, the beginning of the Inca Trail at 2718 m/8924 ft
2. Wayllambamba, the first campsite located at 3000 m / 9842 ft
3. Ayapata preferred campsite on day 1, located at 3300 m/ 10826 ft
4. Lluluchapampa, the first rest stop on day 2, located at 3800 m/10829 ft
5. Pacaymayo Alto, Second campsite located at 3600 m/11811 ft
6. Chaquicocha, Preferred campsite on day 2, located at 3600 m/ 11811 ft
7. Phuyupatamarca, the 3rd campsite, located at 3650 m/11975 ft
8. Wiñaywayna, the preferred campsite on day 3, located at 2600 m/8530 ft
9. Puente Ruinas, the last campsite in 5-day tours, located at 2000 m/6561 ft

Altitude of mountains and passes on the Inca Trail.

• Dead Women’s Pass, the highest point of the Inca Trail at 4215 m/13828 ft.
• Runkurakay Pass, the second highest mountain of the Inca Trail at 4000 m/13123ft
• Veronica Mountain is the highest mountain in the Vilcanota Mountain range, at 5,893 m/19,334 ft.
• Salkantay Mountain is the highest mountain in the Vilcabamba mountain range at 6,271 m /20,574 ft.
• Pumasillo Mountain, visible from Machu Picchu, at 5,991 m /19,656 ft.
• Machu Picchu Mountain, the area’s highest mountain in Machu Picchu, at 3082 m/10111 ft. 
• Huayna Picchu Mountain, the most beautiful mountain, at 2693 m/8835 ft.

Archaeological sites and their altitudes on the Inca Trail

• Salapunku, located at 2720 mt/8923 ft
• Kanabamba, located at 2625 m/8615 ft
• Wilkarakay, located at 2650 m/8694 ft
• Patallacta, located at 2614 m/8576 ft
• Wayllabamba, located at 3000 m / 9842 ft
• Runkuracay, located at 3950 m/12959 ft
• Sayacmarca, located at 3600 m/ 11811 ft
• Concharmarca, located at 3550 m/ 11646 ft
• Phuyupatamarca, located at 3650 m/11975 ft
• Intipata, located 2840 m/9317ft
• Wiñaywayna, located at 2600 m/8530 ft
• Sungate, located at 2700 m/ 8858 ft
• Machu Picchu, located at 2430 m/7972 ft

Inca Trail elevation gain

Day 1: Km 82 to Wayllabamba

• Starting Elevation: Approximately 2,400 meters (7,874 feet)
• Ending Elevation: Around 3,000 meters (9,842 feet)
• Elevation Gain: Approximately 600 meters (1,968 feet)

Day 2: Wayllabamba to Pacaymayo

• Starting Elevation: Around 3,000 meters (9,842 feet)
• Highest Point (Dead Woman’s Pass): 4,215 meters (13,828 feet)
• Elevation Gain: Approximately 1,215 meters (3,986 feet)

Day 3: Pacaymayo to Wiñay Wayna

• Starting Elevation: Approximately 3,600 meters (11,811 feet)
• Ending Elevation: Around 2,650 meters (8,694 feet)
• Elevation Gain: Approximately 150 meters (492 feet)

Day 4: Wiñay Wayna to Machu Picchu

• Starting Elevation: Around 2,650 meters (8,694 feet)
• Ending Elevation (Machu Picchu): Approximately 2,430 meters (7,972 feet)
• Elevation Gain: Slight changes in elevation with emphasis on the final descent towards Machu Picchu

Inca Trail elevation map

Common Symptoms of Altitude Sickness

Symptoms of altitude sickness can manifest in various ways. Some may experience mild headaches, loss of appetite, or difficulty sleeping, while others may feel nausea or dizziness. Taking time to acclimatize before starting the trek—allowing your body to gradually adjust to the altitude—can reduce the risk of experiencing more severe symptoms.

If you want to know more about how to prevent altitude sickness on the Inca Trail click on this link

Preparation and Acclimatization

Before setting off on the Inca Trail, spending a few days in Cusco or the Sacred Valley to acclimatize to the altitude is recommended. This gives you the chance to explore the region’s rich culture while gradually adapting to the challenging atmospheric conditions. Additionally, staying well hydrated and avoiding alcohol can help minimize the effects of altitude sickness during the hike.

Trekking into History

Once prepared, the start of the trek from Km 82 immerses you in a landscape that combines lush vegetation, ancient archaeological sites, and panoramic views of the Andes. As you progress along the trail, passing ruins like Wiñay Wayna and Sayacmarca, you delve deeper into the history and magic of the ancient Incas.

Highlights of the Inca Trail

The Inca Trail is dotted with highlights that will leave you breathless, both literally and figuratively. From the grandeur of Dead Woman’s Pass, the highest point of the trek, to the thrill of reaching the Sun Gate and gazing upon Machu Picchu’s ruins in the distance, each step is an adventure worth recounting.

Practical Tips for Trekking

• Proper Gear: Ensure you have appropriate trekking gear and footwear, along with a lightweight backpack filled with essentials.
• Nutrition and Rest: Maintain a balanced diet during the hike and ensure adequate rest to allow your body to recover.
• Respect for the Environment: Respect the natural and archaeological surroundings, following local regulations and leaving only footprints behind.

Conclusion: An Unforgettable Adventure

The Inca Trail is not just a physical hike but a spiritual journey connecting you with the greatness of a lost civilization. From physical challenges to panoramic vistas, every moment on this ancient trail is an opportunity to grow, learn, and marvel at the beauty of nature and history. Prepare well, respect the environment, and enjoy each step into the past on the journey to Machu Picchu.

Ultimately, walking the Inca Trail is not just for the most intrepid adventurers but for anyone seeking a profound connection with the history and nature of South America.

FAQ of Inca Trail

What is the highest altitude of the Inca Trail?

The highest altitude on the Inca Trail is approximately 4,215 meters (13,828 feet) at Dead Woman’s Pass (Warmiwañusca). This point marks the highest elevation along the trail before descending towards Machu Picchu.

How Hard is the Inca Trail?

The 4-day Inca Trail route is mountainous with many stairs reaching an altitude of up to 4,215 meters with a total distance of 42 km and requires good physical condition and acclimatization.

While the 2-day Inca Trail route is less demanding with a lower altitude and a distance of 10 km is suitable for beginners, but still requires physical preparation.

More information: How hard is the Inca Trail?

How high is Machu Picchu in Peru?

Machu Picchu is located at an altitude of approximately 2,430 meters above sea level, which is equivalent to about 7,970 feet. This relatively high altitude contributes to the temperate and cool climate experienced in the citadel during most of the year.

When is the best time to hike the Inca Trail?

The best time to hike the Inca Trail is during the dry season, which runs from May to September. During these months, the weather is more predictable and the trail conditions are generally better.

More information: Best time to hike the Inca Trail