The Classic Inca Trail begins at kilometer 82 of the railway, at a point known as Piscacucho, and ends at Machu Picchu after covering approximately 43 kilometers. The short version, on the other hand, begins at kilometer 104 and also ends at the citadel, although over a much shorter route.
Knowing the exact starting and ending points helps you understand how each day is organized, how you reach the start of the route, and how the final arrival at Machu Picchu takes place. Below, each section is detailed according to the version you choose.
Where the Inca Trail Starts
The starting point depends on the version you book. The classic four-day route and the short two-day route have different starting points, although both are located along the same railway that connects Cusco with Aguas Calientes.
Kilometer 82: Start of the Classic Inca Trail
The four-day Inca Trail starts at kilometer 82 of the railway line, in the Piscacucho area. Here you will find the first checkpoint, where your permit and passport are checked before crossing the Urubamba River via a pedestrian bridge.
From this point, the trek begins, taking you through archaeological sites and the highest-altitude pass over the following days. It is the true start of the route and where groups organize themselves with their guide, porters, and equipment.
Kilometer 104: Start of the Short Inca Trail
The two-day version begins at kilometer 104, closer to Machu Picchu. From this point, you hike along a section of the original trail that climbs to the archaeological site of Wiñay Wayna before continuing to the citadel.
This starting point allows you to complete the route in less time and without camping, making it an alternative for travelers with limited time or those who prefer a less demanding trek.
How to Get to the Starting Point
Transportation to kilometer 82 is usually by road from Cusco or the Sacred Valley, on a journey coordinated by the agency as part of the program. For kilometer 104, access is by train, as there is no road to that point.
In both cases, transportation to the starting point is included in the booked service. It is advisable to confirm the pickup time and meeting point with the agency, as departures are usually early in the morning.
Where the Inca Trail Ends
Both versions of the Inca Trail end at Machu Picchu, entering the citadel through the Sun Gate. What changes is the number of hiking days beforehand and when the guided tour takes place.
Arrival Through the Sun Gate
The final stretch of the hike leads to Inti Punku, known as the Sun Gate. From this elevated point, you get your first view of Machu Picchu after several days of trekking on the classic route.
This way of arriving is exclusive to those who hike the Inca Trail. Visitors who take the bus up from Aguas Calientes enter through another access point and do not pass through the Sun Gate, making this entrance one of the most memorable moments of the route.
Descent to the Citadel and Guided Tour
From the Sun Gate, you descend toward Machu Picchu along a trail offering views of the citadel throughout the journey. Once below, you take a guided tour of the site’s main areas.
The tour schedule depends on your arrival time and the itinerary you booked. In some programs, entry to the citadel is arranged for the same day the trek is completed.
What the Return Journey Is Like After Machu Picchu
After exploring the citadel, the return journey is usually by bus to Aguas Calientes and then by train back to Cusco or the Sacred Valley. This part of the itinerary varies depending on the program, so it is best to review it before booking.
If you need to coordinate return train schedules or adjust your final-day itinerary according to your flight or next destination, the team at Incredible Peru Tours can advise you on the available options.
Summary of Starting and Ending Points
| Version | Starting Point | Ending Point | Access to Starting Point |
|---|---|---|---|
| 4-Day Inca Trail | Kilometer 82 (Piscacucho) | Machu Picchu | Road |
| 2-Day Inca Trail | Kilometer 104 | Machu Picchu | Train |
Frequently Asked Questions
Where exactly does the Inca Trail start?
The classic route starts at kilometer 82 of the railway, in the Piscacucho area. The short two-day version begins at kilometer 104, closer to Machu Picchu.
Where does the Inca Trail end?
Both versions end at Machu Picchu, entering the citadel through the Sun Gate. The difference is the number of hiking days beforehand.
How do you get to kilometer 82?
Transportation to kilometer 82 is by road from Cusco or the Sacred Valley and is usually included in the program. Departure is early in the morning, so it is advisable to confirm the pickup time with the agency.
Does the Inca Trail end in Aguas Calientes or Machu Picchu?
The trek ends at Machu Picchu, not in Aguas Calientes. The town of Aguas Calientes is visited afterward, during the return journey, to take the train back to Cusco or the Sacred Valley.
Can you start hiking the Inca Trail from Cusco?
No. The tourist route begins at the designated points along the railway, either kilometer 82 or 104. Transportation from Cusco to the starting point is by road or train, depending on the version booked.