Kilometer 82 (also known as Piscacucho) is the official start of the 4 day Classic Inca Trail, recognized worldwide for its historical and natural richness. From this place, travelers begin a journey of approximately 42 kilometers, following ancient paths built by the Incas, which lead to the famous citadel of Machu Picchu.
KM 82 in Peru is also an important logistical point, here, hiking groups are organized, permits and documents are checked, and the first official access control to the Inca Trail is carried out. From this place, a route begins that crosses different Andean and jungle eyebrow ecosystems, and offers spectacular views of mountains, valleys, and rivers. In addition, the site is surrounded by agricultural landscapes, local communities, and archaeological remains. It is common to see farmers working their fields or animals grazing near the starting area.
On the other hand, starting the hike at KM 82 means entering a route that allows observing Inca structures like Llaqtapata from the first day, a construction that is sighted shortly after the first hours of walking. This first section serves as acclimatization and is considered a perfect introduction to what the Inca Trail holds for its following days.
Where is Piscacucho?
Surely you are wondering where is Piscacucho? The Piscacucho community, also known as Km 82 of the Inca Trail, is located in the Ollantaytambo district, Urubamba province in the City of Cusco, at a height of 2709 meters above sea level, on the edge of the Machu Picchu National Park, and Where visitors start the Inca Trail, it can be reached by bus in approximately 3 hours from the city of Cusco.
Km 82 of the Inca Trail
Piscacucho in Cusco is located in a region with an ecosystem typical of alpine mountainous areas. Its climate is usually temperate, with temperatures ranging between 15 and 20 °C during the morning and dropping to 6 to 10 °C at night. The rainy season occurs between November and March, while the rest of the year presents a relatively dry environment, ideal for hiking and enjoying the natural surroundings.
From Km 82 of the Inca Trail, you can see ancient Inca archaeological sites and bridle paths that are part of the original route to Machu Picchu. It is a place that allows you to delve into the history and nature of the ancient Inca Empire.
The Historical Interpretation Center of Machu Picchu
It is a space that seeks to make known to its visitors the majesty of the place, it was inaugurated in June 2013, and it is located in the community of Piscacucho, it was built with the intention of generating an information space on the Protected Natural Area, at the point initial of the traditional Inca Trail. The tour of the Center begins with an induction video that aims to transport the visitor through the most fascinating places of the Sanctuary, and you can also discover the vast biodiversity that this Historic Sanctuary is located in the Andean-Amazon area.
How to get to Km 82 of the Inca Trail?
Most hikers access KM 82 Peru by private vehicle or tourist bus departing from Cusco or Ollantaytambo, a journey that usually lasts between 2 and 3 hours. The path runs along a paved road, which ends in the small community of Piscacucho, where the control point to start the Inca Trail is located.
Suggested route to get there:
- Cusco → Ollantaytambo: by bus, van or train (1.5 to 2 hours)
- Ollantaytambo → Piscacucho (KM 82): by tourist transport (30 to 45 minutes)
Inca Trail fitness level required
The 4-day trekking on the Inca Trail requires a good level of fitness and stamina for walking times of 5 - 8 hours and a maximum of 1,400 m in ascent and a maximum of 1,280 m in descent. We cross two passes at 4,200 m and 4,480 m. Although the tour is designed in such a way that we can acclimatize well, the risk of altitude sickness should not be underestimated. Your heart and circulation should be healthy. we recommend you stay in Cusco Peru.
RELATED: INCA TRAIL FITNESS LEVEL
General information of the Inca Trail
- Location: Cusco Department, Urubamba Province 2,400 masl (Machu Picchu)
- Weather on the Inca Trail: Mild weather
- Average temperature: 15 ° C
- Season: Recommended between the months of April to October, closed for maintenance during the month of February
- Access: Air and land routes, from Lima and Arequipa to Cusco. Railroad, Poroy - Piscacucho (Km 82) and Machu Picchu - Poroy (return, 92 km in 3 hours 30 minutes)
- Physical rating: Medium level
- Duration: 4 days
To start the Inca Trail begins in the community of Piscacucho (Km 82), which is the official entrance to the Inca Trail, from here the legendary trail begins around 6 to 7 hours, 11 kilometers long, passing through an impressive landscape and through from the Inca archaeological complex of Qorihuayrachina with a wonderful view of Patallacta.
Then we ascend to the Wayllabamba community to finally rest in the Yuncachimpa camp. On the second day, the walk is more at the pace of the walker along the Llulluchampa path at 3,850 meters, until reaching many stairs, passing through beautiful landscapes to reach Warmihuañusca at 4,200 meters above sea level, after which point it descends, passing Runkurakay until reaching to the Chaquicocha Camp.
The third day of hiking is the most impressive when entering the tropical forests, combined with beautiful Inca archaeological monuments such as Sayacmarca, Runkurakay and Phuyupatamarca. Finally, descend a few steps to the Inca archaeological site of Wiñayhuayna to the last camp. For the 4th day, we walked a 7 kilometer trail of approximately 2 to 3 hours, to finally arrive at the entrance to the magnificent Inca citadel of Machu Picchu called Inti Punku or Puerta del Sol.
Inca Trail Porters
All tour groups follow more or less the same itinerary over 4 days. The trek starts in the village of Pisqacucho or km 82 and leads through a magnificent dream landscape with snow-capped mountains, rivers and valleys.
Although most tour groups follow more or less the same itinerary, it is highly recommended that you do your research before deciding on a group and choose one that will take proper care of the porters.
While some tour operators may appear much cheaper than others, it is likely that they do not pay proper clothing, food or wages to the porters who take excellent care of the trekkers.
Undoubtedly, many tourists would not be able to complete the famous Inca Trail without the help of the porters. The porters carry on their backs all the equipment the hikers need to set up camp comfortably.
The porters personally carry tents, tables, chairs, food, and cooking equipment and help the trekkers with difficulties during the trekking.
It is important that these wonderful people can get enough food and rest during the trekking. Unfortunately, many tour operators save money by not taking good care of the porters - so make sure you book your trip with a reputable company.
RELATED: INCA TRAIL PORTERS 2025 LAW
Inca Trail 2026
The Inca Trail is one of South America's most famous trekking routes, leading to the legendary city of Machu Picchu along ancient paths built by the Incas. Each year, thousands of travelers cover its approximately 42 kilometers, admiring Andean landscapes, cloud forests, and unique archaeological remains.
For 2026, high demand for available spaces is anticipated, as interest in this experience continues to grow. It is essential to plan the trip several months in advance, as access is regulated and limited to 500 people per day, including hikers, guides, and porters.
Permits for the Inca Trail sell out quickly, especially during high season (May to September). It is recommended to book 6 to 8 months before the desired date. It is not permitted to purchase tickets directly at the Inca Trail access point, as every visitor must enter with a permit previously issued by the Ministry of Culture of Peru. Furthermore, it is mandatory to do the trek with an authorized guide and a registered agency.
Important:
- Tickets are not sold at the Inca Trail checkpoint. All permits must be managed through authorized travel agencies.
- Always carry your original passport, as it is required for entry and booking verification.
- There are multiple alternative routes to Machu Picchu, such as the Salkantay Trek route, although the classic Inca Trail is the most requested.
Machu Picchu Hike
Service: Private and group service
Duration: 3 Days/ 2 Nights
Inca Trail cost: U$ 850 per person
Inca Trail Tour
Service: All-Inclusive
Duration: 4 Days/ 3 Nights
Inca Trail Cost: U$ 750 per person
Inca Trail Group Tours
Service: Groups
Duration: 4 Days/ 3 Nights
Inca Trail cost: U$ 650 per person
5 Day Inca Trail
Service: Group & private service
Duration: 5 Days/ 4 Nights
Inca Trail and Huayna Picchu
If you are hiking the Inca Trail, and you want to climb up to the mountain, you choose the best schedule, Usually the last day, you will be arriving at Machu Picchu at 08:00 and we recommend you can get the Huayna Picchu ticket between to 9:00 or 10:00 am
Huayna Picchu cost
Adult: 200 Nuevos Soles Route Duration Rates for the Right of Visit
Student: 125 Nuevos Soles
Would you like to travel the fascinating Inca road to Machu Picchu? This is the opportunity, take advantage and travel to Machu Picchu.
Inca Trail Treks:
Alternative Treks to Inca Trail:
- Lares Trek to Machu Picchu
- Choquequirao Trek 5 Days.
- Choquequirao to Machu Picchu Trek
- Choquequirao Trek 4 Days
