Ultra Machu Picchu 100k

RUNNER’S ADVICE – Ultra Machu Picchu 100K Ultramarathon

The Ultra Machu Picchu 100K Ultramarathon is not just “another” ultra. It is a high-altitude, point-to-point mountain race between Ollantaytambo and Cusco, with more than 100 km / 62+ miles and over 5,000 m / 16,400+ ft of vertical gain. This guide will help you prepare smarter so you can enjoy the experience and arrive safely at the finish line in Cusco’s main square.

1. Before you travel: choose the right distance

Ultra Machu Picchu offers several distances (5K, 15K, 25K, 50K and 100K). The 100K is designed for runners who already have:

• Experience in mountain ultramarathons or several long trail races.
• Good technical skills on steep climbs and descents.
• A solid endurance base (many hours on their feet).

If you are new to trail running at altitude, consider starting with the 25K or 50K and leaving the 100K for your next visit.

2. Acclimatization: respect the altitude

Cusco and the surrounding mountains sit between 3,300 m and 4,400 m (10,800–14,400 ft). Even strong runners from sea level can suffer if they don’t allow time to adapt.

• Arrive in Cusco at least 3–4 days before the race if you live at or near sea level.
• The first 24 hours: walk, explore, hydrate, but avoid intense workouts.
• Drink water regularly, eat light and avoid heavy alcohol.

Use your acclimatization days for easy walks, short hikes or very gentle runs around Cusco and the Sacred Valley.

3. Training focus for Ultra Machu Picchu 100K

Your training plan should reflect the specific demands of the Ultra Machu Picchu 100K:

• Long climbs and long descents
  • Train on hills whenever possible.
  • Include sustained climbs and long downhills to prepare your muscles for eccentric load.
• Back-to-back long runs
  • Combine long runs on consecutive days to simulate cumulative fatigue.
  • Focus on time on feet rather than pure speed.
• Night running and headlamp practice
  • Part of the 100K will be run in the dark.
  • Do some long runs with your headlamp to get used to depth perception and battery management.
• Strength and core work
  • Short, regular strength sessions (legs, glutes, core) help protect your knees and back over 100 km.

4. Gear strategy: use your mandatory gear in training

The 100K has a list of mandatory gear (check the official gear section and Runner’s Manual). Don’t wait until race week to test it:

• Train with the same backpack or vest you will use on race day.
• Practice carrying at least 1.0–1.5 L of water (34–50 oz) and your basic safety kit.
• Test your headlamp, spare batteries and any cold-weather layers during night or early-morning sessions.
• Make sure your trail shoes are already broken in but not worn out.

Everything that goes in your pack should have a purpose. Keep it light but safe.

5. Nutrition and hydration plan

Over 100 km / 62+ miles at altitude, you cannot “wing it” with food and water:

• Aim to eat small amounts every 30–45 minutes once the race is underway (gels, chews, bars, real food).
• Use your long training runs to test which products and textures work for your stomach.
• Alternate water and electrolytes to compensate for sweat and breathing losses in dry mountain air.
• Study the aid station chart (in the Runner’s Manual) so you know:
  • Distances between checkpoints.
  • Where you will find water only and where you will have solid food.

At altitude, many runners eat and drink less than they should. Set a timer if you need to.

6. Pacing and cut-off management

The Ultra Machu Picchu 100K has a 25-hour time limit, with intermediate cut-offs at key checkpoints. To manage this:

• Start conservatively. The race is long and the highest points are late.
• Think in sections (start to CP1, CP1 to CP2, etc.) instead of the full distance.
• Use the cut-offs as a reference, not as your target. Aim to stay ahead by a safe margin.
• Plan your effort around the big climbs and the highest pass; don’t burn all your energy on early runnable sections.

Your goal is not just to reach halfway fast. Your goal is to arrive in Cusco within the time limit and still able to smile.

7. Using the official bus and logistics

For the 100K start in Ollantaytambo:

• Reserve your official bus ticket when you register or at kit pick-up (if there are still seats available).
• The bus schedule will be published in the Runner’s Manual and official channels; be there early, with all your gear and drop bag ready.
• Pack warm layers for the pre-start; mountain nights and early mornings can be very cold.

After the race, the finish line in Cusco makes it easy to return to your accommodation on foot or with a short taxi ride.

8. Mindset: enjoy the Andes, not just the time on your watch

Ultra Machu Picchu 100K is challenging, but it is also a unique opportunity:

• You’ll cross Andean communities, ancient trails and sacred landscapes that few runners in the world experience.
• Take a moment at the high points to breathe, look around and appreciate where you are.
• Talk to volunteers and local runners; you are part of their mountains for one day.

If you respect the altitude, prepare with intention and arrive with a flexible mindset, the Ultra Machu Picchu 100K Ultramarathon can become one of the most meaningful races of your life.

9. Altitude adaptation programs with Tupac Adventures (8 days & 5 days)

If you want to take your acclimatization and travel experience to the next level, you can book a dedicated altitude adaptation program with Tupac Adventures, the official local partner behind Ultra Machu Picchu logistics and travel.

They offer customizable programs that usually follow two main formats:

• 8-day acclimatization program
  Ideal if you’re coming from sea level and want extra time to adapt and explore:
  • Arrival in Cusco, very easy walks and city exploration.
  • Progressive visits and light hikes in the Sacred Valley (around 2,800–3,000 m / 9,186–9,843 ft).
  • One or more higher-altitude days (around 3,800–4,000 m / 12,467–13,123 ft) to help your body adapt.
  • Time to rest before race day so you start the Ultra Machu Picchu 100K feeling ready, not exhausted.
• 5-day acclimatization program
  A more compact option if your schedule is tighter:
  • Arrival in Cusco with gentle activity and plenty of hydration.
  • Short excursions and easy hikes to gradually introduce altitude.
  • One key day at higher elevation to “wake up” your system.
  • Return to Cusco to rest, pick up your kit and focus on race strategy.

Both program styles can be adapted to your travel dates, budget and the needs of you and your group. They are not included in the race entry fee and are managed directly by Tupac Adventures.

Contact Tupac Adventures

For program details, availability and prices, you can contact Tupac Adventures directly:

• Email: info@tupacadventures.com
• WhatsApp: https://wa.me/51953807498

Tell them you are running the Ultra Machu Picchu 100K and are interested in an 8-day or 5-day altitude adaptation program, and they will help you design the best plan around your race.