Nestled in the shadows of the Andes, lies the historical path to Machu Picchu known as the Inca Trail. It’s a 28 mile trek from the village of Chilca to the legendary “lost city” of the Incas. While the ancient city of Machu Picchu can be reached by train, we encourage you to make the trek, if able, and immerse yourself into as much history and culture as you can absorb.

The trek to Machu Picchu is just a small part of a vast and intricate road system built by the Inca’s. They developed a road system throughout their empire to speed up communication, enhance supply lines and military movement. The road system connects approximately 25,000 miles (40,000 km) of roadways and much of the original construction is still in place today.1 The Incas were excellent stone workers and many of their roadways were paved in stone. They also made suspension bridges using stone anchors and rope (made of ichu grass) to make bridges across ravines and waterways.

Besides basic travel for military, livestock and personnel, one of the primary purposes of the road system was to serve as a communication route to the entire Incan empire. By using the vast network of roads, the Incas employed Chasqui, or relay messengers, to deliver messages throughout the empire. Each messenger would cover a 4-6 mile relay route. It is said that the Chasqui could deliver messages and important material as far as 150 miles a day.

The purpose of this website is to expose you to the history of the Incan Empire, serve as a resource for hotels, travel guides, proper hiking equipment and prepare you for Inca Trail Trekking!

On your journey, you may want to pretend that you’re a Chasqui delivering an important message or a Quipu to the Sapa Inca stopping for food and shelter at various Tambos along your route. You may want to pretend you’re a Spanish Scout scoping out foreign territory in a strange land trying to unlock the mystery of this fascinating culture. Or, you may just want to be yourself, on a hike, taking pictures and soaking it all in. Whatever role you decide to play, we are here to help prepare for a safe journey rich in culture, filled with fun and adventure. Welcome to Inca Trail Trekking!