A Guide to Hiking to the Inca Bridge

Overview

A short and free to enter trek suitable for all ages and fitness levels. The trek follows an Inca Trail where you can observe an original Inca draw bridge used to protect the western entrance to Machu Picchu. The trail head is located within the grounds of Machu Picchu close to the view point of the Caretakers Hut. Panoramic photographic opportunities of Machu Picchu are excellent close to the trail head.

Finding the Trail Head

From the main entrance at Machu Picchu follow the upper circuit around Machu Picchu ascending to the top of the Agricultural Sector. Continue on past the Caretakers Hut view point following a trail that is fairly well-marked with wooden signs. The trail head is marked by a warden’s hut where you need to sign in with a passport number before you trek. The hike from entrance of Machu Picchu to the trail head is fairly taxing and takes between 20 – 30 minutes to complete.

The Trail

From the warden’s hut, other than a few minor undulations the Inca Bridge Trek is fairly flat. Made up of dirt trails and a few Inca stone steps, the trail is easy to navigate and not difficult underfoot. Views from the trail take in the surrounding mountains and the modern hydroelectric plant to the rear of Machu Picchu. In places there are shear drop-offs of several hundred meters, so extra caution should be taken when on the trek. After about 15 minutes of hiking you will arrive at the Inca draw bridge. The bridge is in poor condition and trekkers are not allowed to cross, just simply appreciate the bridge from a nearby view point.

Difficulty

An easy trek suitable for all ages. Parents should be aware of sheer drop-offs if trekking with children.

Trail Difficulty: easy

Helpful Info

Time needed: 40 minutes (total time).
Terrain: Dirt track and Inca stone pathways.
Recommended footwear: Training shoes, light weight walking boots.
Entrance time: Can enter anytime during the regular opening times of Machu Picchu.
Trail head: Located behind the Caretakers Hut in the Agricultural Sector of Machu Picchu.
Tickets: Ticket not required, free to enter (at the moment).

Best Time to Trek

The Inca Bridge Trek is accessible all year round. During the wet season (November – April) there is a higher chance of heavy rainfall. The region has a sub-tropical feel throughout the year with average daily temperatures of 18 °C (64 °F). During the dry season the humidity is around 40 – 45%, rising to 60 – 65% during the wet season. Early morning trekking offers cooler temperatures and better shade from the sun.

Photos

: Warden’s hut

: Inca Bridge Trail (Original Inca Trail)

: Careful of the sheer drop-offs

: View of the Hydroelectric plant

: The Inca Draw Bridge (1)

: The Inca Draw Bridge (2)

Be Prepared

The weather in this region of Peru can often be un-predictable any time of the year, so you must be prepared with clothing for rain and sun. The trail is dirt track with a few stone steps so comfortable lightweight training or hiking shoes are recommended. A light weight rain coat or poncho and sun protection is advised. It is recommended to take one small bottle of water on the trek.