ULTRA MACHUPICCHU TRAIL

KINSA CHUNKA
30K

From $89 USD

" Pachamama suports you, your spirit conquers the mountain..."

DISTANCE:

28.1 KM /17.5 MILES

ELEVATION GAIN:

909M+/2980FT+

START DATE:

SATURDAY JUNE 21, 2025

Salida:

CHINCHERO / 08:00 HRS.

Maximum time allowed:

8 HOURS.

ultramachupicchu_7

UCHUY

CATEGORY

1

PARTICIPANTS

CHINCHERO

START PLACE

08:00 HRS.

START TIME

THE INCA TRAIL RACE

KINSA CHUNKA 30K

An exciting race that challenges your limits while immersing you in the majesty of the Andes. Starting from the picturesque town of Chinchero , this tour will take you through ancient paths that have witnessed Inca history.

As you reach the beautiful Laguna Piuray , feel the revitalizing energy of the water reflecting the mountain peaks. Continuing on to Humasbamba , each step will connect you with the rich culture and tradition of these sacred lands. Finally, as you cross the finish line in Cusco , you will experience not only the satisfaction of having completed the journey, but also the deep sense of belonging to this magical place.

Get ready for an adventure that goes beyond the race, where every kilometer is a celebration of nature and Andean heritage.

DISTANCE AND ELEVATION GAIN:

  • Total distance: 28.3 km / 17.58 miles
    (= Running from Manhattan to the Statue of Liberty and back)

  • Positive elevation gain (ascent): +910 m / 2,985 ft
    (Like climbing the Burj Khalifa (Dubai) 2.7 times in a row)

  • Negative elevation (descent): -1,229 m / 4,032 ft
    (Equivalent to descending from Mount Olympus (Greece) to the Aegean Sea)

  • Total accumulated elevation: 2,140 m / 7,020 ft
    (More than climbing Mount Kosciuszko (Australia), the highest peak in Oceania)

Race date: June 21, 2025 (Andean solstice, ancestral energy guaranteed)
Start time: 6:30 AM (mystical sunrise in Chinchero)
Finish line cutoff time: 3:00 PM (arrival under the sun of Inti in Cusco)
Maximum allowed time: 6.5 hours (Minimum pace: 4.3 km/h!)


MANDATORY CUT-OFFS (NON-NEGOTIABLE):

PointKMLocationCut-off TimeElapsed Time
123Puka Pukara1:00 PM6.5 hours

UNIQUE ROUTE PROFILE

  • Living culture in Chinchero: You will pass through the Inca textile market (KM 0–2), where a band of energy will be woven for your bib.

  • Piuray Lagoon (KM 8): A sacred water mirror where runners perform a symbolic purification ritual.

  • Final Qhapaq Ñan (KM 18–28): The last 10 km follow the original Inca Trail (UNESCO World Heritage).

AWARDS AND RECOGNITION

(Official Ceremony – Saturday, June 21, 2025)

AGE GROUP CATEGORIES

General Rule:
The top 3 finishers in each category will be recognized only if there are at least 10 registered participants.
If a category does not meet the minimum, participants will compete in the next higher category or in the Overall category.

Established Categories and Awards: [Click here] (classification and prizes)

Category Prizes (if applicable):

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

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

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


AWARD CEREMONY

  • Date: Saturday, June 21, 2025

  • Time: 8:00 PM (after the final cut-off of all distances)

  • Venue: (To be confirmed)

Winner Requirements:

  • Present original ID/PASSPORT and official race bib

  • Attendance is mandatory (if absent, the prize will be donated to the Inca Trail Race Series project)


SPECIAL RECOGNITION

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

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


KEY CONSIDERATIONS

  • Tiebreakers: In the event of identical finish times, the following will be considered:

    • Older age (more experience)

    • Best time in the highest altitude segment

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

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

30K Ultramarathon Route:

From Chinchero to Cusco along the Route of the Chasquis


STAGE 1: THE SONG OF THE LAGOON (KM 0–8)

Section: Chinchero (3,780m) → Piuray Lagoon (3,800m)
Key time: 6:30 AM – 8:00 AM (Andean sunrise)
Cultural icon: Chinchero Textile Market, where a symbolic energy band will be woven for your bib.

Terrain:

  • KM 0–5: Ritual flatlands through potato and bean fields (compact earth with small stones)

  • KM 5–8: Skirting Piuray Lagoon, a sacred water mirror (humid grassy trails)

Risk: Morning fog may reduce visibility to 15m between KM 3–7


STAGE 2: THE FLIGHT OF THE KUNTUR (KM 8–12)

Section: Piuray → Kellecocha Pass (4,200m)
Key time: 8:00 AM – 9:30 AM (ascent under the Inca sun)
Cultural icon: Kellecocha Apacheta, a ceremonial mound where runners leave a stone as an offering

Terrain:

  • KM 8–10: Moderate climb (+300m) on a mule path with volcanic rocks

  • KM 10–12: “Condor’s Zigzag”: a 22% incline with loose ground (use hands for balance!)

Risk: Mild altitude sickness due to lack of acclimatization (oxygen available at KM 12)


STAGE 3: THE WHISPER OF THE TERRACES (KM 12–18)

Section: Kellecocha → Puka Pukara (3,680m)
Key time: 9:30 AM – 11:30 AM (critical technical descent)
Cultural icon: Agricultural terraces of Puka Pukara, defying gravity with ancient Inca engineering

Terrain:

  • KM 12–15: Technical descent on Inca terraces (-500m) with eroded steps (watch your ankles!)

  • KM 15–18: “Path of Shadows”: ravine crossings with loose stones and exposed roots

Risk: Ankle sprains are common near KM 14 (highest injury zone)


FINAL STAGE: RETURN TO THE QORIKANCHA (KM 18–28.3)

Section: Puka Pukara → Cusco (3,400m)
Key time: 11:30 AM – 3:00 PM (final push under Inti’s sun)
Cultural icon: Qhapaq Ñan, the ancient Inca road network and UNESCO World Heritage Site

Terrain:

  • KM 18–23: Gentle descent along the original Inca Trail (compact grass and finely carved stone steps)

  • KM 23–28.3: Urban segment through Cusco: colonial cobblestones and crowds approaching Plaza de Armas

Risk: Distracted tourists from KM 25–28 (avoid collisions!)

RUNNER’S PACK: EVERYTHING INCLUDED IN YOUR REGISTRATION

What’s in the Machu Picchu Ultramarathon 2025 Kit?

INCLUDED (REGISTRATION VALUE):

Technical Gear:

  • Race shirt: Breathable Dry-Fit fabric (sizes S–XXL)

  • Finisher shirt: Premium cotton, exclusive to those who cross the finish line (2025 limited edition design)

Symbolic Rewards:

  • Finisher medal with Inca culture–inspired design (anti-wear finish)

  • Personalized bib + industrial-grade safety pins

Full Safety Support:

  • Hydration at 11 stations: Purified water + isotonic drinks + local fruits (banana, orange)

  • Medical team: 3 ambulances, paramedics certified in high-altitude rescue


NOT INCLUDED (OPTIONAL SERVICES):

  • Transportation to the start line: Book your seat separately on official buses. [Click here]

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


IMPORTANT NOTES:

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

  • Prohibited in bag check: Fragile items, electronics, or valuables (we are not responsible for them)

Go to the TECHNICAL GEAR

View Race Rules

TRAIN FOR TECHNICAL DESCENTS (NOT JUST UPHILL)
Why? The section from Kellecocha to Puka Pukara (-1,229m) features loose rocks and slippery terraces.
30K Adaptation: Do 4 sets of 10-minute downhill repetitions on stone stairs with an 18% incline.


HYDRATE WITH WATER EVERY 25 MINUTES
Why? The altitude at Kellecocha (4,200m) requires you to combat altitude sickness starting from KM 8.
Race tip: Mijuna Wasi aid stations will offer cold coca leaf infusions.


SHOES WITH NON-SLIP SOLES AND FOREFOOT CUSHIONING
Why? 40% of the route runs over polished Inca cobblestones, smoothed by centuries of use.
Recommended models: Hoka Speedgoat 5, Salomon Sense Ride 5.


START AT 60% OF YOUR TRAINING PACE
Why? The start line in Chinchero (3,780m) is already higher than Cusco.
Pro tip: If your heart rate exceeds 155 bpm between KM 0–8, slow down.


ANTI-CHAFING CREAM FOR YOUR ACHILLES TENDONS
Why? High socks can rub during the ascent to Kellecocha (KM 8–12).
Local product: Muña ointment (Andean plant with anti-inflammatory properties).


POLES ARE FORBIDDEN FROM KM 12–18
Why? The terraces of Puka Pukara are narrow (only 80 cm wide!).
Alternative: Use grip gloves to support yourself on rocks.


ACCLIMATIZATION: 3 DAYS IN CUSCO + 1 EXTRA DAY

Why? 68% of race withdrawals 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 high-altitude experts: Itineraries that safely increase your hematocrit levels

  • Wellness approach: Andean yoga at sacred viewpoints + iron-rich nutrition (quinoa, trout, coca leaves)

  • Integrated logistics: Includes transfers to/from your hotel in Cusco, accommodations, and tours

STARTING POINT NUMBER OF CUT DISTANCE LOCATION TIME/HOUR FINISH POINT
06:30 AM – CHINCHERO
1
KM 23
Puka Pukara
06.30 HRS. / 1:00 PM
03 PM – CUSCO

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