ULTRA MACHUPICCHU TRAIL

RESULTS

ISKAY CHUNKA
20K

From $69 USD

"every step honors the apus, every breath to Pachamama"

DISTANCE:

20.1 KM /12.4 MILES

ELEVATION GAIN:

820M+/2690FT+

START DATE:

SATURDAY JUNE 21, 2025

EXIT:

UMASBAMBA / 09:00 HRS.

Maximum time allowed:

6 HOURS.

DESCRIPTION OF THE RACE

MAP

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ultramachupicchu_8

UCHUY

CATEGORÍA

1

PARTICIPANTES

UMASBAMBA

LUGAR DE PARTIDA

09:00 HRS.

HORA DE PARTIDA

THE INCA TRAIL RACE

ISKAY CHUNKA 20K

A race for those who seek more than speed, a deep connection with the land and its history. From the small town of Umasbamba , high in the Andes, the route will take you along little-traveled trails, where the landscapes seem to whisper stories of ancient times.

At the heights of Tambomachay, you will feel the energy of the sacred waters, and as you continue towards Pukapukara, the stone fortress, the walls will tell you secrets of the Inca travelers.

The ancient Inca Trail will be your guide in the last kilometers towards Cusco, where the past and the present meet, and where the race becomes a rite of passage that connects you with the heart of the Andes.

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Distance and Elevation:

  • Total distance: 20 km / 12.4 miles (A final sprint toward Inca glory)

  • Estimated positive elevation gain (ascent): 750 m+ / 2,460 ft+
    (Conquering the last great stronghold before Cusco)

  • Estimated negative elevation gain (descent): 950 m- / 3,116 ft-
    (A thrilling descent into the heart of the Empire)

  • Estimated total accumulated elevation: 1,700 m / 5,576 ft
    (A concentrated challenge of Andean geography)

Note: Elevations are estimated based on the final segment of the 100K route and will be confirmed with the final GPX.

Race date: June 21, 2025
Start time: 06/21/25 – 08:00 AM (Umasbamba)
Finish line cutoff time: 06/21/25 – 01:00 PM (Cusco – Plaza de Armas)
Elite time: 1 hour 45 minutes
Maximum allowed time: 5 hours (Feel the energy of the Andes with every step!)

Control Points (CP): 1 (Puka Pukara)
Hampy Wasi (Medical Assistance): 2 (Puka Pukara and Finish in Cusco)
Mijuna Wasi (Aid Station): 1 (Puka Pukara – light solids and liquids)
Hydration Points: 2 (Puka Pukara and Finish)

MANDATORY CUT-OFFS (NON-NEGOTIABLE):

PointKMLocationCut-off TimeElapsed Time
115Puka Pukara12:00 PM4 hours

UNIQUE ROUTE PROFILE

  • KM 0–15 (Umasbamba to Puka Pukara): Challenging ascent along “The Slope of Tears,” featuring sharp stones and grassy slopes that will push your endurance.

  • KM 15 (Puka Pukara): Control point and aid station at the “Red Fortress,” a brief pause before the final descent.

  • KM 15–20 (Puka Pukara to Cusco): Descent along the original Qhapaq Ñan, with sacred steps and panoramic views of Cusco, finishing at the Plaza de Armas.

Maximum participants: 200
1st Place Prize: S/600 (See full table in “The Inca Treasure”)

AWARDS & RECOGNITION
(Official Ceremony – Saturday, June 21, 2025)

AGE GROUP CATEGORIES
General Rule:
Top 3 finishers in each category will be awarded only if there is a minimum of 10 registered participants.
If a category does not meet the minimum, participants will compete in the next higher age group or in the General Category.

Established Categories and Prizes: Click here (classification and prizes)

Age Category Awards (if applicable):

  • 1st Place: Trophy + Certificate + Local product kit

  • 2nd Place: Trophy + Certificate + Local product kit

  • 3rd Place: Trophy + Certificate + Local product kit

AWARDS CEREMONY
Date: Saturday, June 21, 2025
Time: 8:00 PM (after all distances are completed)
Location: (To be confirmed)

Winner Requirements:

  • Present original ID/PASSPORT and official race bib

  • Mandatory attendance (if absent, prize will be donated to the Inca Trail Race Series project)

SPECIAL RECOGNITIONS

  • Spirit of the Chasqui: Symbolic award to the runner who best represents perseverance and respect for Inca culture

  • Guardians of the Trail: Recognition for runners who assist others during the race

KEY NOTES

  • Ties: In case of identical finish times, the following will be considered:

    1. Older age (more experience)

    2. Best time on the highest-altitude section

  • Unclaimed Prizes: Will be donated to Inca Trail Race Series projects

  • Digital Certificates: Sent by email to all finishers (includes official time and ranking)

20K ULTRAMARATHON ROUTE

From Umasbamba to Cusco along Inca Trails

STAGE 1: THE CHALLENGE OF UMASBAMBA (KM 0 – 15)

Section: Umasbamba (approx. 3,600m) → Puka Pukara (3,680m)

Cultural icon: Andean rural landscapes, views of surrounding mountains, approach to Puka Pukara

Key time: 8:00 AM – 12:00 PM (4-hour cut-off to reach Puka Pukara)

Terrain:
Kilometers 0–15: “The Slope of Tears.” A demanding trail with sections of loose, sharp stones and tall grasses that may conceal uneven ground. A steady ascent that will test your determination.

STAGE 2: THE TRIUMPHANT ENTRY INTO CUSCO (KM 15 – 20)

Section: Puka Pukara (3,680m) → Cusco – Plaza de Armas (3,400m)

Cultural icon: Puka Pukara (“The Red Fortress”), panoramic views of the city of Cusco, entry via ancient Inca paths

Key time: Until 1:00 PM (Finish line in the sacred city!)

Terrain:
Kilometers 15–20: Descent along the original Qhapaq Ñan. Sections of compact grass and well-preserved Inca stone steps. An exciting and scenic finale into the heart of Cusco.

Click Here.

What Your Registration Includes
What’s Inside the Machu Picchu Ultramarathon 2025 Kit?

INCLUDED (Registration Value):
Technical Gear:

  • Race Shirt: Breathable Dry-Fit fabric (sizes S-XXL).

  • Finisher Shirt: Premium cotton, only for finishers (exclusive 2025 edition design).

Symbolic Awards:

  • Finisher Medal with Inca culture-inspired design (wear-resistant finish).

  • Personalized bib + industrial safety pins.

Comprehensive Safety:

  • Hydration at 4 stations: Purified water + isotonic drinks + local fruit (banana, orange).

  • Medical team: ambulances, certified high-altitude rescue paramedics.

Smart Logistics:

  • 1 Drop Bag (25L max each)

  • Pre-race delivery: Only in Cusco during the technical briefing.

  • Drop bag access point: Chinchero (KM 20).

  • Pickup: Collect at finish line (Cusco) from 5:00 PM onward.

  • Pick up your bag at the finish with your bib!

NOT INCLUDED (Optional):

  • One-way transport: Purchase your seat separately on official buses. Click here.

  • Accommodation: We offer special rates for hotels in Cusco and Ollantaytambo (inquire here).

IMPORTANT:

  • Drop bag size: Maximum 25L (foldable backpacks recommended).

  • Prohibited in gear check: Fragile, electronic, or valuable items (we are not responsible).

Go to the TECHNICAL GEAR

View Race Rules

View Honor Statementr

TRAIN FOR TECHNICAL DESCENTS (NOT JUST UPHILL)
TRAIN ON SIMILAR TERRAIN:
Why? “The Slope of Tears” features sharp rocks and tall grass; the descent into Cusco involves stone steps.

Ultra MP 20K Adaptation: Look for trails with steep climbs and short technical descents in your area.

SMART HYDRATION:
Why? Although it is “only” 20K, the altitude (starting above 3,600m) and effort require solid hydration.

Ultra MP 20K Adaptation: Start well-hydrated and take full advantage of the station at Puka Pukara. Carry at least 1 liter with you.

TRAIL SHOES WITH GOOD GRIP:
Why? Inca roads can be slippery, especially the stone steps in the final stretch.

Recommendation: Trail running shoes with strong traction soles are essential.

START EASY, FINISH STRONG:
Why? The high altitude of Umasbamba and the opening ascent can drain you if you go out too fast.

Pro tip: Manage your energy on “The Slope of Tears” to enjoy the final descent into Cusco.

ACCLIMATIZATION IS KEY:
Why? Running above 3,400 meters requires proper adaptation.

Recommendation: Arrive in Cusco at least 2–3 days before the race. Do some light hiking during those days.

LIGHT BUT ESSENTIAL GEAR:
What to bring? Windbreaker (Andean weather changes fast), cap, sunscreen, your energy gels/snacks if used, and your hydration system.

ENJOY THE VIEWS AND THE FINISH LINE:
Why? The section from Puka Pukara to Cusco offers breathtaking views and an unforgettable arrival in the Plaza de Armas.

Inca Connection: You are running on the same Qhapaq Ñan once used by the legendary Chasquis!

ACCLIMATIZATION: 3 DAYS IN CUSCO + 1 EXTRA DAY

Why? 68% of dropouts are due to undetected mild pulmonary edema.
Free Check-up: Use the oximeter at the medical stand during kit pickup.
Acclimatization Tours for Ultra Machu Picchu – Tupac Adventures

WHY CHOOSE THEIR PROGRAMS?

  • Designed by altitude experts: Itineraries that safely increase your hematocrit levels.

  • Wellness-focused: Andean yoga at sacred viewpoints + iron-rich meals (quinoa, trout, coca leaves).

  • Integrated logistics: Includes hotel pick-up/drop-off in Cusco, accommodations, and tours.

STARTING POINT NUMBER OF CUT DISTANCE LOCATION TIME/HOUR FINISH POINT
08 AM – UMASBAMBA
02 PM – CUSCO
1
KM 23
Puka Pukara
04 HRS. / 12:00 M

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