Inca Trail to Machu Picchu 4 days
Discover the Original routes of The Incas!
4212 m / 13827 ft
Not Included
Small group
Daily departures
TRAVEL DESCRIPTION
The Inca Trail 4 days / 3 nights begins in Piscacucho (km 82), located 2.5 hours from Cusco. Along the route, you will cross the Sacred Valley and visit archaeological sites such as Llaqtapata, Runturakay, Sayaqmarka, Phuyupatamarka, and Wiñay Wayna before reaching the Sun Gate (Inti Punku). The hike combines mountain sections with descents into cloud forest, crossing the highest point known as Warmiwañusca (4,215 m.a.s.l.).
On the fourth day, you will enter Machu Picchu through the Sun Gate, the traditional access point of the Inca Trail, offering a panoramic view of the citadel at sunrise. The tour includes a certified guide, porters, full meals, and camping equipment.
PROGRAM SUMMARY
Cusco | Piscacucho (Km 82) – Canabamba – Llactapata – Huayllabamba – Ayapata
We begin in Cusco and head toward the trailhead, stopping at scenic viewpoints and notable landmarks along the way. Once we arrive at the Inca Trail checkpoint at Km 82, we’ll kick off our legendary 4-day / 3-night Inca Trail hike, exploring ancient ruins and breathtaking landscapes.
Ayapata | Warmi Wañusca – Pacaymayu – Runcuracay Pass – Sayacmarca – Chaquicocha
This is the most challenging day as we reach the highest point of the trek, known as “Dead Woman’s Pass” (Warmi Wañusca), where you’ll be rewarded with panoramic mountain views. We’ll also visit ancient sites and enjoy stargazing under the clear Andean sky.
Chaquicocha | Phuyupatamarca – Intipata – Wiñay Wayna
Experience the magical transition as we descend into the cloud forest. You’ll visit the stunning Wiñay Wayna archaeological site, where we’ll camp for the night.
Wiñay Wayna | Sun Gate – Machu Picchu – Aguas Calientes – Cusco
We’ll arrive triumphantly at the Sun Gate (Inti Punku), where you’ll enjoy an unforgettable view of the Lost City of the Incas, Machu Picchu. Later, we’ll take the train back to Cusco.
TRAVEL ITINERARY
Day 01: Cusco | Piscacucho (Km 82) Llactapata - Huayllabamba - Ayapata
- The 4-day Inca Trail to Machu Picchu tour begins with the pickup of travelers from their hotels in Cusco. Then, they are taken by private transportation to kilometer 82 – Piskacucho, where the trek officially starts. The hike on the first day is relatively easy and mostly flat. Travelers pass by the archaeological site of Patallacta, an important Inca administrative, economic, and religious center. They also visit Willka Rakay, an ancient Inca military post.
- Afterwards, travelers enter the Wayllabamba Valley, walking along the Kusicacha River (“Happy River”). Along the way, they can also observe Inca terraces belonging to the archaeological sites previously mentioned.
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Finally, travelers reach their first campsite in Wayllabamba, where they can rest and enjoy a delicious dinner before spending the night.
- Meals: Lunch and dinner
- Hiking distance: 12 km / 7.35 miles (approximately 6 to 7 hours)
- Accommodation: Tents
Day 02: - Ayapata - Llulluchapampa -Abra Warmi Wañusca.
- The second day of the Inca Trail begins with an early breakfast. The first section lasts about two hours and leads hikers through an Andean forest to the archaeological site of Tres Piedras.
- After a short break, hikers continue toward Llulluchapampa, where they take a snack before starting the ascent to Warmiwañusca Pass, the highest point on the Inca Trail.
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After reaching the summit, hikers descend for about two hours until they arrive at the campsite, where they have dinner and rest.
- Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
- Hiking distance: 15 km / 9.93 miles (approximately 9 to 10 hours)
- Accommodation: Tents
Day 03: Warmi Wañusca - Pacaymayu - Paso RunKuracay- Sayacmarca – Phuyupatamarca -Wiñay Wayna
- The morning begins with an ascent of approximately 45 minutes to the archaeological site of Runkuracay, followed by a 50-minute climb to the Runkurakay Pass (4,000 m / 13,123 ft). Hikers then descend toward the archaeological site of Sayacmarca and continue for two more hours to Chaquicocha for lunch.
- After lunch, hikers continue toward Phuyupatamarca. The trail crosses a cloud forest before reaching the Phuyupatamarca Pass, from where Machu Picchu can be seen in the distance.
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Finally, hikers descend to Wiñay Wayna, the last campsite of the Inca Trail. Wiñay Wayna is an important archaeological site with terraces, temples, and other remains of the Inca civilization.
- Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
- Hiking distance: 9 km / 5.57 miles (approximately 4 to 5 hours)
- Accommodation: Tents
Día 4: Wiñay Wayna - La Puerta Del Sol- Machu Picchu - Aguas Calientes - Cusco
- The fourth and final day of the Inca Trail begins early with a one-hour hike to the Sun Gate (Inti Punku), the traditional entrance to the citadel. From this viewpoint, hikers can watch the sunrise over Machu Picchu and the Andes.
- After the Sun Gate, the trail descends for about 45 minutes to the upper area of Machu Picchu, where the main viewpoint is located. Here, visitors check in and take a guided tour of approximately two and a half hours through the most important sectors of the citadel.
- After the guided tour, there is free time for lunch before taking the train back to Cusco. The train journey takes roughly two hours, and upon arrival at the station, private transportation will take travelers back to their hotel.
- Meals: Breakfast
- Hiking distance: 5 km / 3.09 miles (2 to 3 hours)
INCLUDES - NOT INCLUDED - DETAILS
Included
- Pickup from your hotel in Cusco.
- Bus transportation to Kilometer 82, the starting point of the hike.
- Entrance tickets to the Inca Trail and Machu Picchu.
- Tourist train ticket from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo.
- Transportation from Ollantaytambo to Cusco.
- Tent (four-person tent used for two travelers).
- Sleeping mats.
- Porters (to carry tents, food, and camping equipment).
- First-aid kit and oxygen tank.
- Vegetarian meal option at no additional cost.
- Meals: 3 breakfasts, 3 lunches, and 3 dinners.
- Bus tickets from Machu Picchu down to Aguas Calientes.
- All taxes included.
No Included
- The first breakfast (Day 1) is usually provided by your hotel before departure.
- The last lunch (Day 4) after the tour ends.
- Entrance to Huayna Picchu (you can purchase it through our company).
- Tips.
- Personal expenses.
- Travel insurance.
What to Bring
- Personal documents: Valid passport or ID (required to enter the Inca Trail and Machu Picchu).
- Hat or cap and sunglasses: To protect yourself from sun exposure during the hike.
- Small daypack: To carry water, snacks, sunscreen, lip balm with UV protection, and personal items during the excursions.
- Broken-in trekking boots or shoes (not new), comfortable hiking clothing, and a light jacket for the cold.
- Rain jacket or poncho: Highly recommended, especially between November and March.
- Reusable water bottle or hydration container: To stay hydrated (you can refill it at designated points).
- Extra clothing for camping nights (extra socks, an additional T-shirt or top).
- Basic personal hygiene items (toothbrush, toothpaste, wet wipes, etc.).
- Cash in soles: For purchases in local communities, tips, or souvenirs.
About trains to Machu Picchu
PeruRail’s most economical tourist service. It offers comfortable seats, large windows, and an atmosphere inspired by Inca culture, ideal for travelers seeking a practical option.
Service with panoramic windows on walls and ceiling, allowing you to fully appreciate the landscape. Includes complimentary snacks and drinks, sometimes with dance shows and fashion parades.
An exclusive and sophisticated train that adds an **observatory car** with balcony and live show to the Vistadome panoramic experience. Offers unparalleled views.
Inca Rail’s most economical tourist service. Offers a simple and authentic journey with comfortable seats and attentive service, celebrating the pleasure of discovery.
Features taller and wider panoramic windows. Includes an open-air observatory car and onboard entertainment system, ideal for 360-degree views.
A luxury service offering maximum comfort and exclusivity. Enjoy spacious seating, live music, and a connection with authentic Peruvian cultural expressions.
Recommendations for your trip
Health Recommendations
- Inform the agency about any heart, respiratory, high blood pressure conditions, or pregnancy before booking. The Inca Trail reaches 4,215 m (13,828 ft) and requires good physical condition.
- Acclimatize in Cusco at least 2 days before starting the trek. Drink plenty of water and avoid heavy meals and alcohol during acclimatization.
- Bring enough personal medication for the 4 days, including pain relievers, sunscreen, and altitude sickness medication if recommended by a doctor.
- The weather varies significantly: warm days (up to 20°C / 68°F) and cold nights (down to -5°C / 23°F at campsites). Bring layered clothing and an appropriate sleeping bag.
Inca Trail Regulations
- Follow the guide’s instructions at all times. Entry to Machu Picchu has strict schedules, and leaving the official trail is not allowed.
- Leaving trash on the trail is prohibited. All waste must be carried to the designated collection points at the campsites.
- Trekking poles must have rubber tips to protect the original Inca stone path.
4-day Inca Trail price
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CLASSIC INCA TRAIL TO MACHU PICCHU 4 DAYS Price Per Person - Minimum 2 people |
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GROUP SERVICE
Classic Inca Trail to Machu Picchu
Shared Service
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US$ 699.00 |
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PRIVATE SERVICE
Classic Inca Trail to Machu Picchu
Private Service
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US$ 1299.00 |
Special Rates
- 1 person: Personalized quote
- Groups of 3+ people: Group discount
- Minors: Special discount
Important: According to availability, a hotel of similar category will be assigned.
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