Dead Woman’s Pass on The Inca Trail

Dead Woman's Pass on The Inca Trail Dead woman’s pass on The Inca Trail, is not only one of the most iconic parts of this Machu Picchu Treks. It is also one of the most difficult as well as memorable sections of the entire the 4-day Inca trail.

In this article, we’ll tell you more about the famous Dead Woman’s Pass.

Dead Woman’s Pass

Dead Woman’s Pass, or ‘Warmiwañusqa’ in Quechua, is the highest point of the Inca Trail that leads to Machu Picchu. It’s located at 4,215 masl.

The name dead woman’s pass comes from the Quechua “Warmi Wañusqa” which means “warmi” = woman and “Wañuy” = die, death or dead, translating to “dead woman”. It is called the dead woman’s pass because from this point the mountains up ahead on the hike resemble the profile of a woman laying down, staring at the sky.

The Legend of the Dead Woman’s Pass

Inca Trail Hike The name Dead Woman’s Pass holds a secret about this majestic place. According to local legends, the pass was named after a young woman who died while attempting to cross the mountains. The woman was said to be a princess from a neighboring tribe who had fallen in love with an Inca prince. When her family found out about the relationship, they forbade her from seeing the prince and forced her to flee into the mountains.

Regardless of her youth and inexperience, the woman was determined to make the journey across the mountains to be with her loved one. She set out alone and made it to Dead Woman’s Pass, but was overcome by the altitude and the cold. She died on the mountain, alone and far from her true love.

Today, many hikers on the Inca Trail report feeling a strange energy at Dead Woman’s Pass, as if the young woman spirit still lingers in the mountain air. Some hikers even report hearing ghostly whispers or feeling a chill in the air, even on warm days. There are many stories around this legend and visitors can hear them all while walking the Inca Trail.

Where Is Dead Woman’s Pass?

Where Is Dead Woman’s Pass Dead woman’s pass is found on day 2 of the popular Inca trail to Machu Picchu. You can find it southwest of the Patallaqta ruins at an elevation of 13,780 ft (4,215 meters) above sea level in the Machu Picchu district.

Hiking the iconic Inca trail can be one of the most beautiful trek experiences one can have. Every year you will find literally thousands of hikers ready to take the Inca trail challenge.

The Walk to Dead Woman’s Pass Challenging?

Yes, the pass is the highest point of the Inca trail, the elevation is 13,780 feet (4,215 meters) above sea level , meaning it will test your physique and adventurous spirit.

The effort is well worth it because you’ll feel a great sense of satisfaction when you get there. At the top of the mountain, you will be able to appreciate the wonder of the Andes and its expanding landscape, as well as the blue sky that’ll recharge you with energy to help you continue your journey to Machu Picchu

What is the best place to see the dead woman’s pass?

What is the best place to see the dead woman's pass The best place to observe the silhouette of this beautiful natural formation can be seen from the archaeological center of Runkurakay. From this place you will have the best view since they are well positioned to clearly see the passage and the silhouette.

Important fact: You can only see Dead Woman’s Pass by doing the classic 4 day Inca Trail with an authorized travel agency.

Conclusion
Trekkers on the classic Inca trail will have different experiences over the course of the Inca Trail. Traversing through Dead Woman’s Pass will undoubtedly be one of the high points of the hike. For more details on the Inca trail, Peru tour packages, or day trips to Machu Picchu, make sure to contact our travel advisers today.