CLASSIC INCA TRAIL TO MACHU PICCHU: 4 DAYS

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CLASSIC INCA TRAIL TO MACHU PICCHU: 4 DAYS

4-Day Inca Trail: Explore the Land of the Incas

The perfect way to explore ancient Incan citadels, magical Andean mountain ranges, tropical cloud forests, lush vegetation of the jungle, and the world-renowned Machu Picchu.

Walk with us along one of South America’s most iconic trekking routes: the Classic Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, a legendary lost city hidden for centuries in Peru’s Sacred Valley. This 4-day guided hiking tour arranges everything for you, including permits, transportation, delicious meals, and experienced local guides.

In total, we’ll walk 40 kilometers (26 miles) over 4 days along the famous original stone path that was built over 500 years ago during the height of the Incan Empire. Along the way, we’ll:

→ Traverse through diverse landscapes and microclimates, starting from the alpine tundra of the Andes and ending in the subtropical forest surrounding Machu Picchu. These ecosystems are home to many plants and animals, some of which are found only in Peru. Our guides will look closely for the spectacled bear that inspired Paddington; llamas, alpacas and deer; chinchillas; hummingbirds; over 400 kinds of butterflies; carnivorous flowers and unique orchids (of which there are over 3,000 species in Peru); and more!

→ Explore 8 different Inca archaeological sites like Wiñay Wayna, Runkurakay, and Phuyupatamarca. These hidden gems are generally untouched by mass tourism due to their location along the Inca trek to Machu Picchu. With our history-buff guides by your side, you'll feel like you're trekking through a living outdoor museum.

→ Eat delicious meals and snacks. Our chefs provide all food and drink along our trek, including 3 meals a day, snacks, tea in the mornings and afternoon, and purified drinking water. Expect creative and nutritious food options that both sustain and entertain.

→ Stay at our campsites, chosen for proximity, comfort, and views. We use high-quality gear and camps are set up when you arrive so you can rest and enjoy

→ Hike to Machu Picchu through the Sun Gate. The Classic Inca Trail tour is the only hiking route that provides direct access to Machu Picchu through the Sun Gate (Inti Punku), instead of the standard tourist entrance via Aguas Calientes. This exclusive arrival on Day 4 is often described as the most magical moment of the trek.

Why hike with us?

→ We are a proud Peruvian-owned company, made up of experienced local guides who are deeply passionate about their work and committed to the sustainability of the land, the preservation of history and traditions, and the well-being of the communities along the route.

→ We keep our groups small so that your experience feels personal — you’re never just a number or part of a (llama) herd. Our guides emphasize conversation and connection, ensuring your questions are answered (even the ones you didn’t know you had) and no stone is left unturned — metaphorically, of course.

→ We take care of all permits, logistics, and transportation, so you can truly relax and focus on the trail. Once you’ve booked with us, no planning required: just show up and enjoy the adventure.

Whether you're an adventurer, a history lover, or a nature enthusiast, this small group guided hiking tour to Machu Picchu offers a once-in-a-lifetime experience. You’ll not only witness the breathtaking fusion of nature and culture at the heart of the Andes—you’ll also uncover a deeper connection with yourself.

Want to experience the Inca trek and Machu Picchu, but short on time? Check out our 2-Day Inca Trail Trek.
Interested in glaciers and high-altitude mountain passes? Check out our 5-Day Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu.

TRIP DETAILS

Day 1: Cusco → Patallaqta → Willkarakay → Wayllabamba

Pick-up time/location: 5:00 - 5:30 am, from your accommodation in Cusco
Included meals/snacks: 3 meals (including breakfast), snacks, afternoon tea, drinking water
Distance we will hike: around 12 kilometers or 7.5 miles
Terrain type: more gentle, easy walking through dry, high-altitude terrain
Campsite: Wayllabamba (3000 m / 9842 ft)

Our 4-day Inca Trail adventure begins early in the morning. We will pick you up from your accommodation in Cusco between 5:00-5:30 am. From there, we will drive about 2 hours to kilometer 82, the hike’s official starting point. Our chefs will provide you with something to eat before we set off from the trailhead, situated at 2,642 m or 8,867 ft.

Today’s section of this guided trekking tour to Machu Picchu is relatively gentle and gradual. Consider it a warm-up for the days to come. We'll have time to take in the spectacular Andean scenery, from the snow-capped La Veronica mountain to the rushing Urubamba River. Bathrooms can be found in the small villages and rest stops, which you can use for 1 to 2 soles.

Soon we’ll reach the archaeological site of Patallaqta (“Hummingbird Village in Quechua), a stunning complex of 116 buildings, representative of the charm and artistry of the Andes. In 1536, retreating Inca leaders destroyed access to Patallaqta to hinder the advancing Spanish army. Due to efforts like these, the Spanish never discovered the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, nor the numerous other settlements that it connects. Let our guides tell you the rest of the story!

Our route through the Urubamba valley will also take us to Willkarakay (also spelled Huillca Raccay), an important cultural and religious center whose foundations predate the Incan empire.

After a lunch stop around 2 pm, we'll continue trekking to Machu Picchu, reaching our first campsite at Wayllabamba. Our porters will set up your tent by the time of your arrival, so you can get comfortable before partaking in some afternoon tea and snacks. Our tour company provides all the refreshments and drinking water you need, though villagers in Wayllabamba also sell bottled drinks and treats (in case you’re craving an Inca Kola).

In the evening, we will debrief for tomorrow, have dinner together, and rest in our tents beneath the stars.

Day 2: Wayllabamba → Dead woman’s pass → Pacaymayo

Included meals/snacks: 3 meals, snacks, afternoon tea, drinking water
Distance we will hike: around 11 kilometers or 7 miles
Terrain type: Steep with some stairs, though not overly technical. Weather will be a little colder and possibly wetter than yesterday.
Campsite: Pacaymayo (3600 m / 11700 ft)

Day 2 of our Classic Inca Trail guided tour is considered the most challenging — but also one of the most rewarding. In the early morning, we will wake you up at your tent with a warm cup of coca tea, which decreases symptoms of altitude sickness and gets your muscles and spirit ready for hiking. We will have a hearty breakfast at camp before beginning the steep ascent to Dead Woman’s Pass (Warmiwañuska in Quechua). This pass is the highest point of the Inca trail, at 4216 m / 13828 ft.

Don’t let the name fool you: we will not only survive the traverse through Dead Woman’s Pass, but we will enjoy it! Our Inca Trail tour guides will go at your pace and create a supportive and motivating atmosphere. Plus, despite backpacker’s rumors, the name of this pass doesn’t have fatal origins: pre-Colombian communities gave the pass this name because the outlines of the surrounding mountain summits appear to form the silhouette of a woman lying down.

We will summit the top of the pass at around mid-day, where we can view one of the most beautiful and dramatic landscapes of the world. Indeed, an advantage of the stone-made Classic Inca Trail is that it’s easy to look back and see how far we’ve come.

Today’s tip: Remember to bring and wear layers — we are above treeline and are exposed to the elements, and the warmth of the sun can be powerful at this altitude!

From here we will make our way to Pacaymayo, where our porters and chef will await us with lunch and our fully set-up camp. We will eat both lunch and dinner here, as well as spend the night, so you have the opportunity to recuperate and relax, explore the area on foot, or do some bird watching. Andean Condors, Copper-Bellied Puffleg hummingbirds, and Robin-like Andean thrushes may be flying above our heads. After another family-style dinner, we’ll say good-night and get some well-earned sleep.

Day 3: Pacaymayo → Phuyupatamarca → Wiñaywayna

Included meals/snacks: 3 meals, snacks, afternoon tea, drinking water
Distance we will hike: around 16 kilometers or 10 miles
Terrain type: Majority downhill, with some uphill sections
Campsite: Wiñaywayna (2650 m / 8694 ft)

Many folks who have done the Inca Trail hike tour with us have described this day as the best day of the whole trek, even rivaling the day we experience Machu Picchu! Today’s hike spans pristine cloud forests, towering mountain vistas, and lesser-known archaeological sites that are well worth the visit. It’s a truly unforgettable immersion into Peru’s profound history and landscapes. Although we will put more distance under our feet today, the trekking will seem easier — consider it a victory lap after yesterday’s accomplishment.

After another hearty breakfast at our camp, we will continue our hike to Machu Picchu by ascending, very gradually, for two hours until we reach a mountainous Peruvian jungle, called the Cloud Forest. This section is where the Andes meets the Amazon, and it is a picturesque environment.

En route, we’ll catch glimpses of the jagged, snow-capped Salkantay Glacier which stands at 6,271 meters (20,574 feet). Not only is it the second highest mountain in the Cusco area, but it’s also considered an Apu — a sacred figure in the Inca Culture.

From here to our next campsite, we will trek through 5 different Andean cities of the past. Our guides will animate the region with fascinating tales and context, bringing meaning and life to what you’re seeing. To give you a teaser of what’s to come, here’s some basic info about the sites, in order:

→ Phuyupatamarca (“The Town of the Clouds” in Quechua): has lookout platforms, fountains that collect rainwater, and great views of the Urubamba river.

→ Intipata (“Terraces of the Sun” in Quechua): is an astounding example of terracing, a style of construction which enabled the Inca to cultivate crops and control erosion at high altitudes and inclines.

→ Runkuraqay (“Abandoned/Collapsed House” in Quechua): is known for its distinctive circular buildings, and probably served as a storehouse and resting spot for foot messengers during the Inca Empire. From here you can see the shape of the woman lying down that makes up Dead Woman’s Pass, which we ascended on Day 2.

→ Sayaqmarka (“Inaccessible Town” in Quechua): appears to levitate on the side of the mountain, given its position high up on a mountain ledge. Many of its windows are angled towards the solstice, hinting at its past function as an observatory.

→ Wiñaywayna (“Forever Young” in Quechua): boasts residential sections, terraces, fountains, and baths.

We will have lunch and dinner at our campsite beside the site of Wiñaywayna. Between meals, we will have time to relax, enjoy the nearby waterfall, and explore more of Wiñaywayna with our guides, as it is the second-most important archaeological site on the Inca Trail after Machu Picchu.

After our dinner together, we will head to our tents early in anticipation for tomorrow, when we enter Machu Picchu!

Day 4: Wiñawayna → Sun Gate → Machu Picchu → Cusco

Included meals/snacks: breakfast, water
Distance we will hike: 6 kilometers or 3.7 miles
Terrain type: gradual until the final stairs before the Sun Gate
Campsite: Our private driver will take you back to your stay in Cusco (usually 6:30pm - 7:30pm)

The final day of this all-inclusive Inca Trail tour begins early so we can reach the iconic Sun Gate (Inti Punku) just in time to witness the sunrise over Machu Picchu — an unforgettable reward at the end of your Inca Trail trekking tour.

Today, we will hike the shortest distance of all the four days, and… we will also have the earliest start! Our wake-up call is hours before sunrise, and after having a breakfast to fuel you up, we will begin hiking in the dark (so remember to bring your headlamps!)

After an hour or so of walking along mild, undulating terrain, we will encounter a big flight of steps. At the top of these steps sits the Sun Gate, the official entrance used by the Incas to connect Machu Picchu with the rest of the empire. The size and steepness of the steps are intentional: the Inca designed them this way to prevent enemies from staging an attack.

After overcoming the steps, we will officially pass through the Sun Gate. You will need to show your original passport at this checkpoint. From this point, a series of astonishing views will open up to you, including the site of Machu Picchu itself, the beautiful landscape of the Urubamba valley, and the mountain Huayna Picchu.

A note: Morning fog often settles in the valleys around Machu Picchu, but usually clears once the sun rises. In moody-weather months, the fog shifts, briefly hiding and revealing parts of the view before lifting. If this day is foggy, it is still very likely you will be able to take an iconic “postcard” photo of Machu Picchu, if you have patience. After all, the most famous viewpoints are on our route!

After taking in the panoramic views, we’ll descend to the Inca Citadel of Machu Picchu itself, where your guided tour of Machu Picchu begins. You’ll explore sacred temples, urban plazas, terraces, and ceremonial spaces while learning about the history and daily life of the Incan civilization.

Later, we will take the bus down to Aguas Calientes, where you will be able to explore the town, have some food, and buy souvenirs before boarding the train to Ollantaytambo and then our bus back to Cusco. Lunch in Aguas Calientes is the only meal not included with us. All transportation tickets are included in our tour, saving you from worrying about logistics on this memorable day.

At this point, you’ll have completed one of the most renowned guided trekking tours in the world, a journey that combines ancient history, breathtaking nature, and personal discovery. Don’t miss this chance to hike the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu and create memories that will last a lifetime.

WHAT'S INCLUDED:

Permit to hike the Inca Trail and entrance ticket to Machu Picchu: These permits and entry tickets are required for all travelers, and they are included in the price of this excursion.
High quality service: Our Peruvian guides, Andean chefs, professional drivers, and campsite hosts all have extensive experience in their occupations to ensure your health, safety, and comfort. It is extremely important for us that we have you, our guest, in good hands.
Professional guide in English and Spanish: Our Peruvian-owned company hires local, educated, and experienced guides to facilitate our tours. We have a true passion for our job, our culture, and our history, and we are delighted to share it with you.
Meals from our Chef, Boiled Water, Tea, and Snacks: 3 breakfasts, 3 lunches, and 3 dinners are included in this trek. We also provide boiled water (so you will be able to fill your own water bottles), coca tea in the mornings to wake up, tea every afternoon before dinner, and daily snacks along the way.
Briefing prior to our departure from Cusco: We will meet with you in person before the trek commences to confirm your preparedness and answer any last‐minute questions.
All transportation, from the moment when we pick you up from your stay in Cusco to when we drop you off there again at the end. This includes:
Private pick-up from your Cusco stay to the start of the Inca Trail
Bus ticket from Machu Picchu to Aguas Calientes
Train ticket from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo (Inca Rail Voyager Service)
Bus ticket from Ollantaytambo back to your stay in Cusco

WHAT'S NOT INCLUDED:

Sleeping bag: You can rent one from us for $20.
Walking sticks: You can rent from us from $20.
Lunch in Aguas Calientes: Every other meal is included on this trip, including breakfast when we pick you up from Cusco on Day 1!
Travel insurance: Required for all our travelers.
Hot Springs Entrance Fee in Aguas Calientes: This is an optional experience.
An additional porter who can carry up to 14 kg to help with personal belongings and sleeping bags. The 14kg can be shared between two people. Through us, you can pay for an extra porter for $150.
Tips for Our Staff: Tipping is customary on any excursion to Machu Picchu. Typically, our small groups pool tips and then distribute them together to our porters and cooks near the end of our trek.
Additional costs or delays beyond our control, including unforeseen weather events, schedule changes due to personal safety, political instability, etc.

Official Passport (not a copy!): This is a requirement enforced by the Peruvian government. When you book with us, we will ask you to share your passport information with us so that we can purchase your entrance tickets and permits. Please bring the official passport that you shared with us (and not a different one) because your passport number will be printed on your entry ticket.
Valid Student Card (if booked as a student)
Cash: There are no ATMs along the Inca Trail. Bring enough money for tipping, lunch in Aguas Calientes, and bathrooms, drinks, and snacks along the route.
Personal Medication: You can bring personal medication and over-the-counter medicines, provided that they are in their original packaging, and that the medication is legal in Peru. It is a good idea to bring printed copies of prescriptions for medicines, eyeglasses/contacts, and other medical supplies.
First Aid Kit: We recommend that you assemble a small first aid kit that includes handy supplies like bandages, antibiotic ointment, and antiseptic wound cleaner.
Sunscreen: We will be trekking across high-altitude terrain: the lowest point of the Inca trail is 2,200 meters (7,218 feet), and the highest is 4,200 meters (13,779 feet). The sun is much stronger where the atmosphere is thin like this, and it is much likelier to experience sun burns. SPF 50+ will offer you the most protection.
Insect Repellent: Machu Picchu is situated in a tropical mountain forest that is also home to insects. If bugs and mosquitoes love you, consider packing some anti-itch gel or cream in addition to insect repellent.
Hand Sanitizer and Extra Toilet Paper: While our trek is well-equipped and prioritizes your comfort, we are, after all, camping! Some sections of our route have fewer services, and you will want to clean your hands and body with hand-sanitizer or wipes.
Personal Hygiene Products, like toothbrush, toothpaste, deodorant, etc.
Good Trekking Backpack (recommended at least 20L)
Headlamp: Having a headlamp will help you navigate around our campsites and enjoy your time in your tent after the sun sets. In addition, we will have early starts to most of our days, and a headlamp will ensure you remain sure-footed as we begin trekking under the stars.
Portable Charger or Power Bank: There is no electricity or signal on the Inca Trail. In order to keep your phone, watch, and/or camera sufficiently charged to take photos and/or track your route, bring a portable charger or power bank with you.
Reusable Water Bottle or Camelbak: You can refill your water supply at our campsites and lunch spots — our chefs and guides will provide boiled, purified water for you.
Comfortable Hiking Boots: Each day, we will walk on the famous stone highway built centuries ago by the Incas. Although this path is robust and stable, some sections are hilly and rugged, and you will need a decent amount of tread on your hiking shoes. A lightweight hiking shoe with good soles/tread will help keep your attention on beauty and history around you, rather than any pain in your feet.
Comfortable Camping/Hangout shoes: After hiking, you will want to change into a light-weight, comfortable pair of sandals or “hang-out” shoes.
Clothing: You will want to have a few of every item of clothing on your Inca Trail trek, in case things get dirty or wet, and to have several layers to add on or take off to adjust to the changing temperatures. (It also is nice to have options and feel fresh each day!) To be specific, we recommend having:
2-3 sweat-wicking T-shirts
2-3 pairs of hiking pants
4 sets of underwear
4 sets of hiking socks
1 fleece jacket
1 rain jacket and a pair of rain pants, or durable poncho: Weather can be quite capricious in the Andes, and rain and high winds can occur at any time of the year. No matter the season, waterproof layers are a must.
1 warm coat or down jacket: We do recommend bringing another warm coat or down jacket — in addition to your fleece jacket and waterproof layer — because it can get quite cold in the nights and early mornings.
1 sun hat to protect yourself from any sunburns or sun poisoning
1 wool hat to protect your head and ears from the chilly high-altitude nights
Waterproof gloves so you can use your hands to take photos, retrieve snacks and supplies, aid other travelers, and give high-fives in any climate.
Quick dry towel to dry your hands/face after washing.
Optional, Bathing Suit: Once we arrive in the town of Aguas Calientes on the final day of our excursion, you have the option to visit the town’s thermal hot springs. This activity is not included in the price of our package, though many of our guests choose to go to relax their muscles after completing this epic trek!

What is included in the 4-Day Inca Trail to Machu Picchu tour package?

Our all-inclusive Inca Trail tour package includes:

Pickup from your accommodation in Cusco
Private transportation to the Inca Trail starting point (KM 82)
All Inca Trail permits and Machu Picchu entrance tickets
Professional local guides on the Inca Trail
Porters to carry camping equipment and cooking supplies
All meals during the trek (breakfast, lunch, dinner, and snacks)
High-quality camping gear (tents, mats, etc.)
Train ticket from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo
Bus from Ollantaytambo to Cusco

How difficult is the Inca Trail hike, and do I need to be in top physical shape?

The Inca Trail 4-day hike is considered moderate to challenging. The most difficult section is the steep ascent to Dead Woman’s Pass (4,216 m / 13,828 ft) on Day 2, due to the altitude and elevation gain.

You don’t need to be an expert hiker, but a reasonable level of fitness and some preparation is recommended. Our guided Inca Trail trekking experience is designed to support hikers of varying levels — and our experienced guides and porters will be with you every step of the way.

Do I need a permit to hike the Inca Trail, and is it included in the tour?

Yes — permits for the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu are mandatory and strictly limited by the Peruvian government. These permits often sell out months in advance, especially in peak season.

When you book with us, your Inca Trail permit is included in the tour price, and we handle all the logistics for you. This makes our tour a stress-free, permit-inclusive Inca Trail package so you can focus on the adventure, not the paperwork.

What kind of meals and accommodations are provided on the Inca Trail trek?

All meals are freshly prepared by our team of experienced cooks and served daily throughout the trek. The only meal that is not included is lunch in Aguas Calientes on Day 4, after exploring the Machu Picchu Site.

Accommodations consist of comfortable camping tents set up each night at scenic campsites along the trail (Wayllabamba, Pacaymayo, and Wiñay Wayna). Each campsite is selected for its natural beauty and proximity to key landmarks on the trail. Tents and mattresses are included, and you can rent a sleeping bag from us for $20.

How far is the Inca Trail and how many hours will we hike each day?

The total distance of the Classic Inca Trail route is approximately 40 kilometers (26 miles) over four days. Daily hiking hours vary depending on terrain and altitude:

Day 1: ~5–6 hours of hiking (gentle terrain, archaeological sites)
Day 2: ~6–7 hours (steep ascent to Dead Woman’s Pass)
Day 3: ~7–8 hours (longest distance, most ruins and scenic views)
Day 4: ~2–3 hours (early hike to Sun Gate and Machu Picchu entrance)

Our small group Inca Trail tour ensures personalized support and a manageable rhythm for all participants.

Is altitude sickness a concern on the Inca Trail, and how can I prepare?

Yes, altitude sickness can affect some travelers, especially on Day 2 when we reach elevations above 4,200 meters.

To reduce your risk:

Spend at least 2–3 days acclimatizing in Cusco (3,400m) before your trek
Stay hydrated, eat light meals, and avoid alcohol before the trek
Coca tea and altitude medication may help.

When is the best time of year to hike the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu?

The best time to hike the Inca Trail is during the dry season, from April to October, when weather conditions are most favorable for trekking.

May–August is peak season: dry and cool, but busier. If you plan on visiting Cusco in June, we invite you to go on our Inti Raymi Full Day Tour to celebrate the most important festival of the Incan Empire. More details HERE.
April, September, and early October offer a nice balance of good weather and fewer crowds

What happens after the tour ends in Machu Picchu? How do we return to Cusco?

After your guided tour of Machu Picchu, we take a bus down to Aguas Calientes, where you’ll have time to enjoy a meal, explore the town, and shop for souvenirs.

Later that afternoon, we’ll board the scenic train to Ollantaytambo, followed by a bus transfer back to Cusco. The entire return journey is included in your Inca Trail tour package, making for a seamless end to your adventure.