Inca Trail in April – Complete Guide to Hiking Towards Machu Picchu
The Inca Trail in April is one of the best times of the year to experience this legendary trek. April marks the transition from the rainy season to the dry season, creating ideal conditions for trekking: fewer showers, clearer skies, lush green landscapes, and comfortable temperatures. For many travelers, April offers the perfect balance between good weather and moderate crowds.
In this complete guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about doing the Inca Trail in April: weather, permits, availability, highlights, packing list, tips, and what to expect along the way.
Weather on the Inca Trail in April
April is a shoulder season month in Cusco and the Sacred Valley. Rainfall decreases significantly compared to February and March, while the lush landscapes of the rainy months remain.
Rainfall: Showers are occasional, mostly in the afternoons or evenings.
Temperature (Day): 16°C to 22°C (60°F–72°F).
Temperature (Night): 5°C to 7°C (41°F–45°F).
Humidity: Lower than in March but still moderate.
Visibility: Clear skies are common, offering great mountain and valley views.
✅ Verdict: April is one of the best months for the Inca Trail, with mild weather and vibrant landscapes.
Is April a Good Time to Hike the Inca Trail?
Yes! April is considered one of the most recommended months for the trek.
Advantages of Hiking in April
Great Weather: Mostly dry days with fewer chances of heavy rain.
Green Landscapes: Valleys and mountains are lush from the recent rainy season.
Moderate Crowds: More people than March but fewer than peak months (June–August).
Good Photography: Clear skies and vibrant greenery.
Comfortable Temperatures: Days are warm, nights are cool but not freezing.
Disadvantages of Hiking in April
Some Rain: Showers are still possible.
Permit Demand: April is popular, so permits sell out early.
Insects: More mosquitoes and bugs due to lingering humidity.
Inca Trail Permits in April
Permits are required for the Classic Inca Trail (4 days / 3 nights).
Daily Limit: 500 permits (including guides and porters).
Availability: High demand — permits often sell out 6–8 months in advance.
Booking: Only licensed tour operators can secure permits. Independent trekking is not allowed.
If permits are unavailable, consider the Short Inca Trail (2 days) or alternative treks.
Difficulty of the Inca Trail in April
The Inca Trail is always moderate to challenging, regardless of the month.
Total Distance: ~42 km (26 miles).
Highest Point: Dead Woman’s Pass at 4,215 m (13,828 ft).
Daily Hiking: 6–9 hours per day.
April Challenge: Less mud compared to February–March, making the trek easier.
✅ Verdict: April is one of the best months for difficulty balance — the trail is drier, but still lush.
What to Pack for the Inca Trail in April
Clothing
Waterproof hiking boots with good grip
Light rain jacket and poncho (for occasional showers)
Quick-dry trekking pants and shirts
Warm fleece or down jacket for evenings
Thermal layers for high passes
Hat, gloves, and warm socks
Gear
Trekking poles (essential for steep descents)
Backpack cover and dry bags
Sleeping bag rated for -5°C (can be rented in Cusco)
Headlamp with spare batteries
Hydration system or reusable water bottle
Essentials
Sunscreen, sunglasses, and hat (strong UV)
Insect repellent
Snacks: nuts, chocolate, energy bars
Personal medication and altitude remedies
Highlights of the Inca Trail in April
Archaeological Ruins Along the Trail
Patallacta (Llactapata): Agricultural terraces seen on Day 1.
Dead Woman’s Pass (Warmiwañusca): The highest and toughest section at 4,215 m.
Runkurakay: Circular ruin believed to be a lookout post.
Sayacmarca: The “Inaccessible Town” on a cliff.
Phuyupatamarca: The “Town Above the Clouds.”
Wiñay Wayna: A beautiful ruin with terraces and ritual baths.
Sun Gate (Inti Punku): The grand entrance to Machu Picchu.
Machu Picchu: The iconic Inca citadel and final destination.
Natural Scenery
Lush green valleys from the rainy season.
Snow-capped Andean peaks.
Orchids and unique flora beginning to bloom.
Occasional rainbows after showers.
Tours for the Inca Trail in April
Classic Inca Trail (4 Days / 3 Nights)
The full experience with all major ruins and Machu Picchu.
Short Inca Trail (2 Days / 1 Night)
Starts at Km 104, includes Wiñay Wayna and Machu Picchu. A good alternative if permits are sold out.
Express Inca Trail 1 Day
Starts at Km 104, includes Wiñay Wayna and Machu Picchu.
Alternative Treks in April
Salkantay Trek (5 days): Scenic with high mountains and jungle.
Lares Trek (4 days): Cultural immersion with Andean communities.
Choquequirao Trek (4 days): Remote and adventurous, fewer tourists.
Accommodation on the Inca Trail
Classic Trail: Camping at designated sites (Wayllabamba, Pacaymayo, Phuyupatamarca, Wiñay Wayna).
Short Trail: Hotel in Aguas Calientes before visiting Machu Picchu.
Food on the Inca Trail
Tour operators provide balanced meals:
Breakfast: oatmeal, pancakes, eggs.
Lunch/Dinner: soup, rice, pasta, meat or vegetarian options.
Snacks: popcorn, biscuits, tea.
Vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options are available upon request.
Tips for Hiking the Inca Trail in April
Book Early: Permits sell out 6–8 months in advance.
Train Beforehand: Cardio and hiking help prepare for altitude.
Acclimatize in Cusco: Spend 2–3 days before trekking.
Pack Light: Hire porters to carry heavy items.
Start Early: Mornings are clearer, afternoons may have showers.
Bring Insect Repellent: Humidity brings mosquitoes near Machu Picchu.
FAQs – Inca Trail in April
Is the Inca Trail open in April?
Yes, it reopens in March after February’s closure and is fully open in April.
Is April crowded?
Moderately. More than March but less than June–August.
Do I need to book permits in advance?
Yes, permits sell out quickly, so book at least 6–8 months early.
What’s the weather like in April?
Mostly dry, with occasional showers. Clear skies are common.
Is April good for photography?
Yes! Green valleys, fewer clouds than March, and crisp morning light.
The Inca Trail in April is one of the best months to hike to Machu Picchu. With good weather, lush landscapes, moderate crowds, and freshly maintained trails, it offers the perfect balance for trekkers.
While you should still be prepared for occasional showers, April’s combination of clear skies and vibrant scenery makes it an ideal month for photography and an unforgettable trekking experience.
Whether you choose the Classic 4-Day Inca Trail or the Short Inca Trail, April is the month where the Andean landscapes and Inca ruins truly come alive.