The Inca Bridge is a short, exposed trail on the western edge of the Machu Picchu citadel — a 20-minute walk from the main site that most visitors miss. It’s part of a defensive route the Incas built directly into the cliff face.
The “bridge” itself is a set of wooden logs laid across a deliberate gap in the stone path; sliding them out stranded any pursuers on the wrong side. The trail hugs a sheer drop of several hundred metres and is roped off at the gap itself, but you can walk right up to it.
The hike is moderate, mostly flat, and the viewpoint shows the Urubamba River far below and the Andean peaks on the opposite side of the valley. The side trail requires signing in at a guard post at the start — bring your passport.
Book tickets at Peruways.
