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PISKA
50K

From $29 USD

"Run with your heart in the Andes and the Apus will open the way for your..."

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DISTANCE:

5 KM /3.1 MILES

Elevation Gain:

370M-/1200FT+

START DATE:

SATURDAY JUNE 21, 2026

EXIT

EXIT: PUKA PUKCARA / 10:00 HRS.

Maximum time allowed:

2 HOURS.

ultra 5k
UCHUY

Category

1

PARTICIPANTS

EXIT: PUKA PUKCARA / 10:00 HRS.

START PLACE

SATURDAY JUNE 21, 2026

START TIME

THE INCA TRAIL RACE

PISKA 5K

This race is designed for families and children to experience an unforgettable adventure in the Andes. Starting from the emblematic Puka Pukara fortress , this 5-kilometer route is perfect for enjoying an exciting descent while contemplating the natural beauty of the surroundings. As you progress, the route becomes more friendly and accessible, allowing the little ones to run and play with enthusiasm.

The route culminates in the vibrant Plaza de Armas , where the energy of Cusco welcomes you with open arms. This race not only promotes physical activity, but also fosters moments of joy and connection between families, turning the experience into a valuable memory that will last a lifetime.

Get ready to run, laugh and enjoy together in this celebration of life and Andean culture!

DISTANCE AND ELEVATION

  • Total distance: 5 km / 3.1 miles (A final sprint into the glory of ancient Cusco)

  • Estimated positive elevation gain (ascent): 50 m+ / 164 ft+ (Virtually flat at the start with gentle undulations)

  • Estimated negative elevation (descent): 330 m- / 1,082 ft- (Direct descent into the navel of the world)

  • Estimated total accumulated elevation: 380 m / 1,246 ft (A fast race with a downhill finish)

Note: Elevation figures are estimates and will be confirmed with the final GPX track

RACE INFORMATION

  • Race date: June 21, 2025

  • Start time: 06/21/25 – 9:30 AM (Puka Pukara)

  • Finish line cutoff: 06/21/25 – 11:30 AM (Cusco – Plaza de Armas)

  • Elite time: 18 minutes

  • Maximum allowed time: 2 hours (Enjoy every step of this unique experience!)

COURSE SUPPORT

  • Control Points (CP): None on course (Straight to the finish line)

  • Hampy Wasi (Medical Assistance): 2 (Puka Pukara – start and Cusco – finish)

  • Hydration Points: Finish line only
    (Runners are advised to carry personal hydration if needed)

UNIQUE ROUTE PROFILE

  • KM 0 (Puka Pukara): Start at the imposing “Red Fortress”

  • KM 0 – 1.5: Mostly flat segment on packed dirt trail, perfect for finding your pace

  • KM 1.5 – 5: Gradual descent along the original Qhapaq Ă‘an, featuring sacred steps and sweeping views of Cusco, finishing at the Plaza de Armas

PARTICIPATION & PRIZES

  • Maximum participants: 300

  • 1st Place Prize: Surprise gifts and more

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

5K ULTRAMARATHON ROUTE

From Puka Pukara to Cusco along Inca Trails

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

  • Cultural Icon: Start at the fortress of Puka Pukara, with panoramic views of the Cusco surroundings, and run through the final stretch of the ancient Qhapaq Ă‘an

  • Key Time: 9:30 AM – 11:30 AM (Finish line at the historic Plaza de Armas!)

TERRAIN

  • Kilometers 0–1.5: Wide and mostly flat trail, perfect for a fast and comfortable start. Compact ground surface

  • Kilometers 1.5–5: Steady descent along the original Qhapaq Ă‘an. Sections of compact grass and well-preserved Inca stone steps. An exciting and direct finish 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)

  • 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)

ARRIVE EARLY TO PUKA PUKARA

  • Why? To enjoy the atmosphere, do a light warm-up, and find your spot at the start line

  • Ultra MP 5K Tip: Buses will depart in advance—do not miss them!

ENJOY THE FLAT START

  • Why? The first 1.5 km is perfect for finding your rhythm without overexerting yourself

  • Ultra MP 5K Tip: Do not sprint out too fast—manage your energy for the downhill

PREPARE FOR THE DESCENT

  • Why? The final 3.5 km are mostly downhill and can overload your quads if you are not used to it

  • Recommendation: Step carefully on the Inca stone stairs—they are part of history!

WEAR PROPER FOOTWEAR

  • Why? Even though part of the course is flat, the descent includes uneven terrain and steps

  • Recommendation: Shoes with good cushioning and some grip will be your best allies

STAY HYDRATED BEFORE AND AFTER

  • Why? Even though it is a short race, the altitude in Cusco (starting above 3,600 m) makes hydration crucial

  • Ultra MP 5K Tip: Drink water before the race and take advantage of hydration at the finish line

DO NOT UNDERESTIMATE THE ALTITUDE

  • Why? Even a 5K race feels more intense at high elevation

  • Recommendation: If coming from lower altitudes, spend at least one day in Cusco beforehand. Walk, hydrate, and rest

SMILE AND ENJOY THE FINISH LINE

  • Why? Crossing the finish line at Cusco’s Plaza de Armas is a one-of-a-kind experience

  • Inca Connection: You are finishing your journey in the heart of the ancient Empire—celebrate it!

SUNSCREEN AND A HAT

  • Why? Andean sun can be intense, even on cloudy days

  • Ultra MP 5K Tip: Protect yourself so you can enjoy the race comfortably

ACCLIMATIZATION: 3 DAYS IN CUSCO + 1 EXTRA DAY

  • Why? 68% of 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 hotel pick-up/drop-off in Cusco, accommodations, and tours

IN YOUR MARAS DROP BAG (KM 41): DRY CLOTHES + SECOND-SKIN GLOVES

  • Why? Between KM 41–67, you will cross rivers and humid salt flats

  • Prohibited: Do not include extra batteries (they may get wet)—better to carry two headlamps

10-MINUTE NAP AT KM 75 (CHINCHERO)

  • Why? After 19 hours of running, a micro-nap in a safe zone can prevent collapse

  • Tip: Set an alarm on your watch and ask a volunteer to wake you up

STARTING POINT NUMBER OF CUT DISTANCE LOCATION TIME/HOUR FINISH POINT
10 AM – PUKA PUKARA
NO CUT
12 M – CUSCO

Elevation Profile

mapa-5k

More Information

TECHNICAL GEAR
Race Rules
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