Hiking the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu: Your Ultimate Guide

Hiking the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu: Your Ultimate Guide

Group-photo-at-the-top-of-Dead-Womens-Pass.jpg

One of the most popular hikes in South America, Peru’s Inca Trail is definitely an experience of a lifetime. Constructed by the Incas over 500 years ago, the Classic Inca Trail is the most famous stretch of the Inca road system – consisting of 40,000 kilometres (25,000 miles) of trail spanning north to south through Chile, Ecuador and Peru. Check out below everything you need to know about hiking the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu below and we look forward to seeing you on the trail on a Peru tour!

Why is the Inca Trail Hike So Iconic?

Deemed one of the greatest multi-day treks in the world, it’s no wonder hiking the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu has found its way onto many travellers’ bucket lists. Perhaps it’s the many Inca ruins scattered along the trail, the lure of the Andean mountains ever so present or the chance to stand at the Sun Gate, watching the first rays light up Machu Picchu.

Whatever your reason for wanting to conquer this renowned hike, one thing remains true. Planning a hike along the Inca Trail takes planning and patience, especially if you’d like to organize your own guides. However, by trusting a long-standing adventure company like Active Adventures, your Inca Trail hike to Machu Picchu can be life-changing and stress-free.

What you'll see on the Inca Trail hike to Machu Picchu

 

The endpoint of the first day’s trek along the Inca Trail, Wayllabamba, which means “grassy plain” in Quechua, is the perfect spot to watch the sunset behind the dramatic Andean peaks. This grassy plain overlooks a stunning spot of Andean scenery, with centuries-old Incan terraces winding through the surrounding mountainsides.

The Valley of Llulluchapampa

Trekkers will start off the first portion of day two of the journey hiking through the picturesque Valley of Llulluchapampa. As you gradually ascend in altitude, you will even be afforded perfect views of stunning snowcapped cliffs.

Runkuracay

This unique oval structure, sometimes colloquially known as the “Egg Hut,” is believed to have been a kind of rest stop for Incan travellers, called a Tambo, providing them with a place to spend the night and rest their animals. It is the perfect place to enjoy a mid-hike break and marvel at the beauty of Incan architecture.

Sayacmarca

The dramatic Sayacmarca ruins are situated at a fork in an old Incan road in a dense subtropical forest full of butterflies and hummingbirds. They have an almost mystical air about them and are arguably the most impressive along the Inca Trail (except for Machu Picchu itself, of course!).

Phuyupatamarca

Dubbed “La Ciudad entre la Niebla” (“The City above the Clouds”), this major archaeological site is situated a staggering 3,200 meters above sea level. The ruins, dramatically constructed into a steep cliffside, contain five stone baths that fill up with fresh water during the rainy season. It is believed that these baths were used for religious ceremonies.

Huiñay Huayna (Wiñay Wayna)

Huiñay Huayna (traditionally spelt Wiñay Wayna in Quechua, the language of the Incas) was constructed into a steep hillside overlooking the Urubamba River. In addition to the site’s ancient houses and temples, it also boasts an incredibly complex system of Incan terraces, formerly used for agriculture.

Hiking the Inca Trail: FAQ's

How long is the Inca Trail?

Surprising to many, the Classic Inca Trail hike is only 40 kilometres (25 miles) long. Don’t think this trail is a cakewalk though! With an altitude of 4,200 metres (13,766 feet) at its highest point, each of the four days and three nights brings its challenges.

What is the elevation of the Inca Trail?

Elevation varies along the Inca Trail. You’ll start the Inca Trail at an elevation of 2750 metres (9,000 feet), climb to a max elevation of 4,200 metres (13,766 feet) before descending down to Machu Picchu at 2,400 metres (7,474 feet).

Is the Inca Trail safe to hike?

Like all multi-day hikes at altitude, the Inca Trail does have its risk. However, going with experienced guides who know the region and taking all normal precautions like keeping valuables out of sight and not hiking in the dark will ensure your risks are kept low.

How difficult is it to hike the Inca Trail?

The Inca Trail hike itself is not extremely difficult, with well-constructed paths and relatively short hiking distances each day. However, it’s still recommended you’re in good physical condition to hike the Inca Trail and take all the appropriate precautions to limit altitude sickness.

When is the best time to hike Machu Picchu?

The Dry Season

Dry season lasts between July and August and is the most popular time to visit Machu Picchu. This season brings cool nights and dry days and you'll be in for loads of glorious sunny days, with the odd rain shower here and there just to make things interesting.

The Wet Season

Wet season, on the other hand, lasts longer from November to April. During the rainy season, trails can be muddy, and a little more treacherous along the stunning but precarious steep mountain trails. Many adventurous travellers still choose to hike during the wet season so they can see the many sights without the crowds.

The Shoulder Season

May, June, September and October are considered the shoulder season. During these times you may experience the occasional rainfall and misty mornings. However, the trails are also much quieter and you won’t be waiting in a line for your chance for a perfect photo. Pack some layers and enjoy whatever the weather brings your way!

Begin your Inca Trail hiking trip in Cuzco

Getting to Cuzco

If you’re coming from outside of Peru, most international flights will arrive in the city of Lima. From here, the best option is to take a domestic flight, which will take roughly one hour to get to Cuzco. Another option is to take a bus. However, be prepared for an additional 20 hours of travel due to the rough and rugged roads of Peru.

Things to do in Cuzco

The ancient capital of the Incan empire, one could spend weeks in Cuzco and not get bored of its lively streets, colonial architecture, picturesque streets and many nearby temples to explore. Some of our favourites include wandering the Plaza de Armas, checking out one of the many museums and enjoying local fare at a charming restaurant.

For more information, check out Best Things to Do in Cuzco, Peru.

Starting your Inca Trail hike

Your Classic Inca Trail hike begins at a place called Kilometer 82. As the name suggests, this famous trailhead is situated 82 kilometres along the railway from Cuzco, on the way to Aguas Calientes and Machu Picchu. You can board a train to Kilometer 82 at Poroy Station in Cuzco, which is approximately 18 kilometres from the city centre. On this journey, you’ll pass through the town of Ollantaytambo, and you’ll find Kilometer 82 situated halfway between Ollantaytambo and Aguas Calientes.

Finishing your Inca Trail hike

You’ll complete your hike on the 4th day as you arrive at Machu Picchu’s Sun Gate in time to watch the sunrise over the misty ruins, with plenty of precious time to explore the ruins before the tour buses arrive.

Preparing to Hike the Inca Trail

Inca Trail Permits & Restrictions

If you’re joining a guided tour, your operator will simply require your passport details and they’ll organise your hiking permit for you. Be sure to plan your trip well ahead of time – hiking permits for the Classic Inca Trail hike to Machu Picchu can sell out up to 3 or 4 months ahead of time.

Inca Trail Packing List

Knowing what to pack on for your Inca Trail hike may not be as straightforward as you think. Yes, you need the obvious things like good quality hiking shoes, rain gear and a water bottle. But did you know you should also carry a small amount of cash, flip-flops and a flashlight?

For a detailed list, check out Inca Trail Packing List: The 12 Most Important Items and Why

Accommodations on the Inca Trail

‘Luxury camping’ is a term that’s often referred to when we’re asked about the accommodations on the Classic Inca Trail. If you’re looking for high-class lodges along the way, you won’t find them. Everyone that hikes the Classic Inca Trail to Machu Picchu camps for all 3 nights. Having said that, it’s some of the most comfortable camping you’ll ever experience.

On Active Adventures’ Ultimate Peru Adventure, your tents are completely prepared for you before you arrive. You’ll sleep on comfortable camping mats, and only the best tents are used. You’ll stay dry and out of the elements, setting you up for a great night's sleep. Below are examples of the tents used on the Classic Inca Trail.

Food on the Inca Trail

Every day you’ll enjoy delicious sit-down breakfasts, lunches and dinners. Your guides will cater for any dietary requirements, and you’ll enjoy a range of homemade marmalades, dried fruits (pineapple, banana, berries, etc), energy bars and chocolate brownies, and homemade bread.

Toilets on the Inca Trail

Photo by robas/Getty Images

Remember, you’re high in the Peruvian Andes, so don’t expect too much comfort. But we’ll make sure your camping experience is as good as it gets. At each camp, we use private camping toilets with biodegradable detergents which don’t pollute the environment. We’re constantly trying to ask fellow operators to make the same effort.

The classic 4-day hike to Machu Picchu

Day 1: Cuzco to Pisonay

On the first day of the Classic Inca trail, you'll leave Cuzco and make your way through the Sacred Valley of the Incas before starting your hike at Piscacucho, or Kilometre 82 as it is known by the locals. From here, spend the day hiking alongside the Rio Cusichaca, surrounded by massive Andean peaks, Inca ruins and semi-arid forest.

Maximum altitude: 2954m / 9694ft
Minimum Altitude: 2670m / 8761ft
Distance Travelled: 10.89km / 6.77ml
Approximate Walking Time: 5 hours

Day 2: Wayllabamba to Pacamayo

Day 2 is the most challenging portion of the trek. You'll climb 914 metres (3000 feet) up to Warmiwañusqa, or ‘Dead Woman’s Pass’ altitude 4400 metres (14,435 feet). The trail winds its way up through a beautiful mountain pass with stunning panoramic views of the alpine wonderland. It’s a challenging hike to the pass, and the 360º views make every step worthwhile.

Maximum Altitude: 4226m / 13866ft
Minimum Altitude: 2954m / 9694ft
Distance Travelled: 7.10km / 4.40ml
Approximate Walking Time: 5.30 hours

Day 3: Pacamayo to Wiñay Wayna

Day three brings you alongside fascinating Inca fortresses. Descend out of the cloud forests and feel the air become warmer and denser and the forest becoming denser.

Start Height: 3627 masl / 11900 ft.
Max Height: 3974 masl / 13030 ft. 
Approximate Walking time: 8 to 9 hrs   
Day Distance: 11 km / 7 ml

Day 4: Wiñay Wayna to Machu Picchu

Wake up early today and hike an hour in the dawn light to Inti Punku, the Sun Gate. Here you'll want to wait for the sun to rise and the morning fog to lift, giving you the first glimpse of Machu Picchu. It’s a moment to savour before heading down to explore this mysterious ancient city.

Start Height: 3688 masl / 12100 ft.                
Max Height: 3688 masl / 12100 ft. 
Approximate Walking time: 4:30 hrs            
Day Distance: 7.29km / 4.53 ml

More About the Inca Trail & Machu Picchu

Deciding between the Lares Inca Trail and Classic Inca Trail?

Inca Trail vs. Lares Trail: How to Get the Most out of Your Adventure

Hike Peru's Lares Inca Trail to Machu Picchu

Get the most out of your Inca Trail hike

6 Tips for Hiking the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu

The Classic Inca Trail to Machu Picchu: A Photographic Journey

Learn more about Machu Picchu

Things to Do in Machu Picchu: How to Get the Most of Your Experience

Facts About Machu Picchu To Outsmart Your Tour Guide

Ready to Conquer the Inca Trail hike to Machu Picchu?

Leave the planning to the experts and join Active Adventures' 10-day Ultimate Peru Adventure 'Jaguar'. You'll not only hike the entire length of the Classic Inca Trail or Lares Inca Trail, but you'll also have the opportunity to explore the Amazon jungle.

Explore Adventures in this Destination

Related Posts

Where to Watch the 2023 Solar Eclipse

 

On October 14th, 2023, North, Central and South America will…

Epic and Adventurous: The Best Hikes in Europe

Alpine meadows, rugged coastlines, volcanic moonscapes, hospitable villages, and waterfalls…

Damon's Kilimanjaro Climb on the Active Travel Adventures Podcast

In this episode of the Active Travel Adventures podcast, our…

Best Time to Visit Peru | Destinations, Climate, and Seasons

So, when is the best time to visit Peru?If you're…

W Trek Patagonia – Everything You Need to Know

Calling Torres del Paine National Park a dramatic landscape is…

Podcast: Kit Parks Tell Us all About her Dolomiti Adventure

Kit Parks, from Active Travel Adventures, tells us everything about…

Podcast: Kit Parks Interviews David and Tina About their Ecuador Adventure

Kit Parks from Active Travel Adventures interviews David and Tina…

Podcast: Kit Parks Interviews Dave and Tina About their Galapagos Land and Sea Adventure

Kit Parks from Active Travel Adventures, Dave and Tina discuss…

Adventure Travel to Costa Rica: Everything You Need to Know

Photo by Kamchatka/Getty Images

With coastlines on both the Pacific Ocean…

Keeping Up With Our New Zealand Guides

You’ve heard us say it before, and you’ll hear us…

Northern Patagonia vs Southern Patagonia - How to Choose

Planning a trip to Patagonia but can't decide whether to…

Hiking Iceland: The Best Day and Multi-day Hikes

Iceland is a hiker's paradise. Its vast wilderness calls to…

Dolomites Hiking Guide: Best Hikes in the Dolomites

 

Ahhh the Dolomites! Arguably one of the most stunning mountain…

Travelling to Ecuador and the Galapagos During the Covid-19 Pandemic

Notice anything different about this picture? Look closely - there's…

Top 5 Open Destinations to Visit in 2022: Where Can Americans Travel?

The light at the end of the tunnel is finally…

Best things to see on the West Coast of New Zealand

The West Coast of New Zealand's South Island is a…

Hike or Bike the Paparoa Track

The Paparoa Track crosses 55km of the Paparoa National Park,…

The Eight Best Things to Do in the Dolomites, Italy

Pictures of the towering rock monoliths of the Italian Dolomites…

Top five things to do in Grand Teton National Park

Found yourself in Wyoming with your hiking boots? Here’s some…

The 12 Best Day Hikes in Utah

Utah is not only famous for having some of the…

Multi-Day Hike Packing-List for New Zealand

You and some mates have 4 (5 at a stretch)…

Discover Rakiura National Park, on Stewart Island

 Where is Stewart Island? 

Where is Stewart Island?Stewart Island is situated…

Top things to do in Mount Aspiring National Park

Mount Aspiring National Park is a hiker's paradise and a…

Podcast: Annie Allen talks with Kit about her 'Dolomiti' adventure in the Italian Dolomites

 

Most awesome active adventure“This trip was perfect, just the right…

Podcast: Harry Dickens talks with Kit about his Machu Picchu & Amazon Adventure

 

What a great experience“Active was so organized. Every day was…

Podcast: Linda Cohen Dickens talks with Kit about her 'Tour du Mont Blanc' adventure

 

My Mont Blanc Circuit“This trip not only provided an upfront…

Podcast: Stan Jacobson talks with Kit about his 'Annapurna Sanctuary Trek' in the Himalayas

 

5 Stars x 3“I rated this as 5 stars, "Excellent,…

Podcast: Sue Brickey and Rick Pope talk with Kit about their 'Chinchilla' adventure (Part I)

 

More Than I Expected“I only did three days of the…

Podcast: Sue Brickey and Rick Pope talk with Kit about their 'Chinchilla' adventure (Part II)

A varietal overview of Bolivia

“Such a diverse opportunity to experience…

Things to Do in Glenorchy - the Gateway to Paradise

Situated at the end of the road, there’s only one…

Discover Fiordland National Park - Things to See & Do

The largest of New Zealand’s fourteen national parks, Fiordland National…

Things to Do in Abel Tasman National Park

Abel Tasman National Park was formed after local conservationist Perrine…

Video: Safari Adventures in Africa

Come on a journey with us to the wildest place…

Video: How to pack for a three-day hike

Lynette, our client services rock star gives you a step…

Video: Highlights of our Elegant South 'Kakapo' trip

A short look at some highlights from our comfort-focused Elegant…

Video: Ben Lomond in Queenstown

A challenging hike to beautiful vistas above Queenstown and the…

Video: Punakaiki

Famous for its 'Pancake Rocks', Punakaiki is also host to…

Video: Nelson Lakes National Park

This section of our Ultimate South Island trip is an…

Our Favourite Hikes on the West Coast of New Zealand

The West Coast of the South Island is a unique…

Things do Do in Queenstown for Non-Adrenaline Junkies

The first thing that probably comes to mind when you…

New Zealand Glaciers You Can Easily Hike To

Many travelers to New Zealand are familiar with our two…

Things to Do in Christchurch, New Zealand

Christchurch, the 'Garden City', is where the majority of our…

Things to Do in Auckland: Explore New Zealand's City of Sails

Auckland, known as the 'city of sails', was recently voted…

Things to know before visiting the Peruvian Amazon 

From Machu Picchu to Rainbow Mountain, Peru is a behemoth…

Best Things to Do in Cusco, Peru

The ancient Inca capital is said to have been founded…

Peru's Rainbow Mountain and the 'Camino del Apu Ausangate' Lodge to Lodge Trek

The beautiful coloured striations of Rainbow Mountain in Peru's Andes…

Hike Peru's Lares Trek to Machu Picchu

Constructed by the Incas over 500 years ago, the Lares…

Inca Trail vs. Lares Trail: How to Get the Most out of Your Adventure

As you plan your trip to Peru and to Machu…

Best Time to Visit Machu Picchu

Considering a bucket list trip to Machu Picchu but unsure…

How to Get to Machu Picchu: Everything You Need to Know

So, the once-in-a-lifetime trip to Machu Picchu is beckoning your…

Discover Machu Picchu, The Most Famous Inca Ruins in Peru

Peru has so many ancient ruins, villages imbued with an…

Discover the Most Famous and Lesser Known Inca Ruins in Peru

Over 500 years ago, the Inca Empire built a road…

Discover the Best Things to Do in Lima, Peru

The once-called City of Kings, founded in 1535, is the…

Top 10 Best Places to Visit in Peru

There is so much to see when visiting Peru, it…

Finding Flights to Patagonia

Sorting out Patagonia flights and Patagonia travel doesn't have to…

Best Time to Visit Patagonia

With years of experience in the travel arena under our…

Bolivia Culture and Customs

The culture and customs in Bolivia are unique and have…

City Guide to La Paz, Bolivia

La Paz, also known as ‘the city that touches the…

The Best Way to Explore the Galapagos Islands

There are dozens of tour companies out there offering Galapagos…

Basic Facts About the Galapagos Tortoise

The Galapagos Islands are named after the giant tortoises that…

5 Best Islands to Visit in Galapagos

The Galapagos Islands are an adventures dream with plenty of…

Best Things to Do in Quito, Ecuador

If you're planning an Ecuador holiday, you'll be visiting the…

Best Scuba Diving in the Galapagos Islands

The Galapagos Islands is an internationally renowned diving destination home…

Video: Okarito Lagoon

The sleepy hamlet of Okarito is close to the sizeable…

Video: Siberia Experience

On our Classic South Island New Zealand trip, we fly…

Video: Franz Josef Glacier and Township

'Glacier country' - the west side of Aoraki/Mt Cook National…

Video: Ultimate South Island Adventure trip

The 'Rimu' is our signature New Zealand trip. 14 days…

Video: Patagonia Hiking Adventure

Patagonia is a mystical land of glaciers, mountains, and often…

Video: What to Pack for a 2 Week Adventure Vacation to New Zealand

Lynette from our office talks you through what you'll need…

Video: Switzerland: Why I keep coming back

This video was shot in Switzerland on the Bovine Trail…

Video: Classic South Island Adventure

Our Classic South Island Adventure is 8 days of action-packed…

Video: New Zealand Adventure Tours

Want to know what travelling in New Zealand with us…

Ultimate Peru Adventure 'Jaguar' Trip

Dreaming of a Peru adventure? Our 'Jaguar' is our signature…

Video: Ultimate South Island Adventure Highlights

Our signature New Zealand trip is 14 days of hiking,…

Video: Our Guest Kilo's Ultimate South Island Adventure

Follow our guest, Kilo on his 14-day epic journey around…

Video: Annapurna Sanctuary Trek

Experience what it's like to trek in the Annapurna Region…

Travel to Nepal: Everything you need to know

We're big believers in the journey being just as important…

Is it safe to visit Nepal?

There is nothing more exciting than planning a new adventure…

The Full Guide to Nepal’s Annapurna Sanctuary Trek

Celebrated for its amphitheatre of giant granite peaks, the Annapurna…

Hiking in Nepal: Multi-Day Treks

To hikers and trekkers from all over the world, the…

Nepal’s Everest Base Camp Guided Trekking Tour Itinerary

A trek to Everest Base Camp is a ‘bucket list’…

Learn About Lukla and its World Famous Airport

Lukla is found in north-east Nepal and sits at 2,860m…

Things to Know About Iceland Before You Go

Has Iceland been recently added to your bucket list? No…

Trek the Tour du Mont Blanc: Learn About our Guided Itinerary

Strap on your best pair of hiking boots – this…

Best Time to Hike the Tour du Mont Blanc

Thinking of joining us here in Europe for a bucket-list…

Hiking in the European Alps

A hiking & mountaineering dreamThe European Alps stretches across seven…

Discover Chamonix, the Adventure Capital of Europe

Chamonix can rightly be called the adventure capital of Europe.…

The best time to visit Tanzania

Tanzania is known for having some of the best safaris…

Everything You Need to Know Before Traveling in Patagonia

Patagonia has an almost surreal quality to it, so it's…

Hike the Rakiura Track

Although the Rakiura Track is a 29 km tramping track,…

Multi-Day Hiking in New Zealand: How to Plan the Perfect Trip for You

New Zealand has earned itself a reputation as one of…

Hike the Lake Waikaremoana Track

The Lake Waikaremoana Track, located within Te Urewera National Park,…

Hike the Kepler Track

The Kepler Track, in Fiordland National Park, is a 67…

How to Plan Your New Zealand Hiking Trip: An Easy 5 Step Guide

Not many travel companies will share these unbiased truths about…

Siberia Valley Experience and Lake Crucible

If there is one thing you can be sure about,…

Hiking Safety Tips for Tramping in New Zealand

Safety’s not as hard as you may think – New…

Hike Ben Lomond in Queenstown

Ben Lomond (45°00'24.06" south 168°36'54.76" east) is an attractive mountain…

Hike Mueller Ridge and Sealy Tarns

The Mueller Ridge hike from Mount Cook village, up past…

Best Day Hikes on New Zealand's North Island

Wherever you are in New Zealand, chances are you aren't…

The Best Day Hikes on New Zealand's South Island

Wherever you are in New Zealand, chances are you aren't…

Hike the Queen Charlotte Track

The Queen Charlotte Track offers a spectacular trip through the…

Hiking the Lakes in Nelson - Nelson Lakes National Park

Without a doubt, this is New Zealand's best kept hiking…

Hike the Heaphy Track

 

The Heaphy Track is known for its beauty and diversity.…

Hike the Routeburn Track

 The Routeburn Track, New Zealand 

The Routeburn trek is a 33km…

Hike the Abel Tasman Coast Track

The Abel Tasman Coast Track is a 51 kilometre (32…

Hike the Milford Track in New Zealand

The 53.5 kilometre (33.2 mile) Milford Track is one of…

The Complete Guide to New Zealand's 10 Great Walks

The "Great Walks" are generally regarded as New Zealand's premier…

Best Heli-Hike in New Zealand

Franz Josef Heli-HikeOn all of our summer South Island trips…

How to Prepare for a Hike: 8 Fitness Tips for the 50+ Explorer

“Am I too out-of-shape for an adventure trip?” It’s the…

7 Reasons South America is a Must-Visit in the North American Winter

Looking for a better way to spend your winter instead…

The Ultimate 14 Days in Patagonia Itinerary

So you like to be active, huh? That’s totally cool…

Interesting Peru Facts

Are you about or thinking to head out to Peru?…

6 Travel Apps You Absolutely Need When Travelling in South America

The smartphone has quickly evolved into one of the most…

6 Peruvian Words You Should Know Before Your Machu Picchu Adventure

Because of its role as an international tourism destination, it’s…

12 Peruvian Festivals, One for Each Month!

Perhaps you've read somewhere or other that there are over 3,000…

The 7 Peruvian Drinks You Can't Miss on Your Trip

Just as Peru is a land of diverse and delicious…

Huayna Picchu Hike: How Fit Must you be to Climb?

So you've made it up to Machu Picchu. After months…

Inca Trail Packing List: The 12 Most Important Items and Why

You've done it… You've finally decided to go hiking the…

Hiking Clubs USA

Hiking Clubs CaliforniaBay Area Jewish Singles Hiking ClubEight to ten…

7 Things to Know About Traveling to Peru

Sometimes surprises when you're travelling can be good - a…

Hiking the Tongariro Alpine Crossing

Superlatives are inadequate to describe this outstanding one-day hike on…

15 Bucket List Activities to do in South America

We've been running trips in South America for over a decade…

Annapurna Base Camp Tips: Everything You Need to Know

Now that we’ve been running trips in the Nepalese Himalayas…

The Ultimate Guide to the Best Beaches in Peru

When someone mentions Peru images of idyllic mountain pastures, ancient Incan…

The Top 20 Things to Do in Peru

It probably shouldn't come as much of a surprise that…

Best Day Hikes in New Zealand

As a small island nation, New Zealand is an absolute…

Hike the Copland Track to Welcome Flat

The Copland Track is located south of Fox Glacier on…

Multi-day Hiking in New Zealand's Backcountry, and 8 Reasons to Go Guided

The team here at Active Adventures are an outdoorsy bunch!…

Peruvian Food You Can't Miss on Your Machu Picchu Trip

There's a lot to get excited about when it comes…

Facts About Machu Picchu To Outsmart Your Tour Guide

Peru is bursting with ancient ruins and villages built on…

6 Inca Trail Tips to Make the Most of Your Machu Picchu Trip

My flight was booked! My dream of hiking the Inca…

Things to Do in Machu Picchu: How to Get the Most out of Your Experience

Although it's one of the most well-known archaeological wonders of…

Top 10 Views in New Zealand

With the help of our Facebook fans and with some…

7 Fascinating Galapagos Islands Animals

The Galapagos Islands and wildlife are synonymous – you can't…

The Seven ‘Wonders’ of the Galapagos: Best Things to Do and See

As individuals who thrive on adventure, we love to travel…

The Top 10 Things To Do in New Zealand

Are you planning a vacation in the land of the…

The Top Things to do in the Amazon Rainforest

Stretching 96,922 square kilometers across the country, the Amazon Rainforest…

The Classic Inca Trail to Machu Picchu: A Photographic Journey

It was around the early 2000's when we started exploring the…

Pisac Market and Hike to Pisac Ruins

The village is perched high in the mountains and surrounded…

Mustang Adventure 2018: Trip of a Lifetime for Body, Mind and Soul

When thinking about hiking in Nepal, a lot of people…

Top 10 things to do in Iceland!

Are you a keen explorer? In the market for a…

Replace Your New Year's Resolution with one of these Bucket-List Hikes

New Year's resolutions are notoriously difficult to stick to, most…