DISTANCE:
15k
Elevation Gain:
3800 m
START DATE:
28 Junio
EXIT
Huayllarcocha
Maximum time allowed:
6 Hrs
Category
PARTICIPANTS
START PLACE
START TIME
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.
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 INFORMATION
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!)
COURSE SUPPORT
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)
| Point | KM | Location | Cut-off Time | Elapsed Time |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 15 | Puka Pukara | 12:00 PM | 4 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
PARTICIPATION & PRIZES
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:
Older age (more experience)
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. 3,600 m) → Puka Pukara (3,680 m)
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 (3,680 m) → Cusco – Plaza de Armas (3,400 m)
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
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: Inca culture-inspired design with 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: 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)
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 3,600 m) 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, 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 Ă‘an 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
|
Elevation Profile
