inca trail tour peru

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Inca Trail Tours & Trips

High-above sea level, the country of Peru is home to the ancient ruins of the Inca Empire. Beginning in the colonial city of Cusco, hike the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu . The surrounding areas of the region are full of archaeological sites and this South American trail is one of the world's most famous journeys.

147 Inca Trail tour packages with 3,834 reviews

• Hiking & Trekking
• Sightseeing
• In-depth Cultural
• Christmas & New Year

Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu in 2 Days

O tour superou minhas expectativas em todos os sentidos. A trilha inca clássica vale muito a pena, contato direto com a natureza e aprendendo sobre a cultura durante todo o caminho. Recomendo muito!

• Book With Flexibility This operator allows you to rebook your dates or tours with them for free, waiving change fees.

Absolute Peru

Did this tour in September / October 2015 and it was fantastic! Our guide Alex was excellent, he really understood that sorts of things we wanted to know and was always looking for ways to add value. For example, on our long drive across the Altiplano to Puno he arranged for us to stop at a llama and alpaca farm. For a few soles for the farmer were were able to get really close, take photos etc. Also really interesting to talk to him about Peruvian politics and so on. The group tended to always eat together and he always had recommendations for restaurants. Some of these were perhaps more expensive than others we might have chosen but still much cheaper than it would cost at home and the food was always good. Local guides were also of a high standard. Accommodation was pretty decent although the room in Paracas wasn't up to the standard of the rest. It was only one night though and it's a small place with limited choice. It did have a very nice roof terrace for breakfast. Transport was better than expected - the public buses are comfortable and spacious and the mininbuses and the like which were used just for our group were the same. The tour has lots of variety and there are plenty of things I'll remember for a lifetime - sandboarding at Huachachina, swimming in Lake Titicaca (absolutely freezing), playing football against locals at the homestay, spotting monkeys at our jungle lodge and of course, the first sight of Machu Picchu through the fog. If you have the time and money, this is the Peru trip to take.

• Mountain Hikes

Peru: Ancient Cities & the Andes

Amazing tour with the best guide in the world, Harry!!!! He made every day so much fun. Peru is a beautiful country and this tour was a wonderful way to see it. The Inca Trail was spectacular and the level of service from the G Adventures trekking crew blew me away - they did everything for us: setting up camp, 3 course meals, laid out hot water for us in front of the tents to wash our faces in the morning, just really above and beyond. So if you're nervous about the camping on the trek being rough, don't be, because the team made things 100x easier so that all you have to do is enjoy the trail. Couldn't have had a better experience in Peru!

Classic Inca Trail Trek 4D/3N to Machu Picchu (Group service )

We highly recommend this Inca tour company. They are locally owned and employ local people. The guides spoke excellent English, they were very kind and encouraging and put a lot of humour into our trek. Nothing was too much trouble. The food was amazing and camping equipment clean and warm. Do not hesitate to use Alpaca expeditions

Classic Inca Trail to Machu Picchu 4 Days

I had the best time on this tour, the trek was amazing and our tour guide, Monica, and all the porters were incredible. The food was brilliant and you can tell how much the tour guide and the porters care about and enjoy the jobs they do. It is relatively tough doing the 4 days hiking but Monica kept us at a good pace and never pushed us to go faster, encouraging us to take frequent breaks which also helped us enjoy the journey more. Her knowledge was amazing, and she explained the history around all the stops along the way and then gave us a brilliant tour once we arrived at Machu Picchu.

04 Day Classic Inca Trail to Machu Picchu - Small Group Service

My family and I have just returned from the Inca Trial. Everything from start to finish was excellent, our guide Raul was extremely knowledgeable about the trail, the history of the Incas and his experience was invaluable in making everything run smoothly. Since the previous conversations throught emails they took note of our dietary requirements. They will happily accommodate if you are vegetarian or have any other dietary restrictions. Overall the food was better than what we had in some restaurants in Cusco. After an exhausted day the food was everything! Having completed the classic inca trail (4 days), we had no complaints and honestly everything was amazing. We highly recommend the Inkayni team, you won’t regret I promise <3

Hiking The Classic Inca Trail to Machu Picchu & Sacred Valley

We thought this was a great company to work with and though the prices were very reasonable. Tour guide was very nice and informative.

Classic Peru

I visited Cusco and Puno in Peru, best experience ever. Intrepid does care for responsible travel, and we also slept at a local comunity when we got the opportunity to dress up as locals. We shared their meals and it was an authentic inspirational experience for me. I would love to travel with Intrepid once more, or maybe more than that.

Inca Trail Express

Fabricio was incredible. I actually got an gastrointestinal infection during the inca trail but he was so compassionate and sensitive to ensure that I was ok. He checked on me often and got me a doctor. He even gave me his number to contact him even after the tour was over just in case I was still feeling ill after I left Cusco. He was amazing and I'm very grateful to him. As a female traveling alone, he definitely made me feel less alone. Great guy and very passionate about what he does. I hope he is well recognized by Intrepid.

Salkantay Via Inca Trail Trek 4 Days/3 Nights

My son and I had an unbelievable journey with Action Peru Treks. They took care of everything. They communicated spectacularly as we were planning and prior to our arrival and then delivered a trip that we will remember for the rest of our lives. Roxner was knowledgeable about the history of the region. The food and service throughout was amazing. Of course, the highlight was Machu Picchu, and the history talk and guided tour from Roxner were first class. We will be back for another trip with Action Peru Treks!

Ancascocha Trek to Machu Picchu 5 Days/4 Nights

The Ancascocha trek was a fantasctic experience in Peru. I would highly recommend this trek and Action Peru Treks to anyone planning a trip to Peru! Thank you APT for a great experience :)

• Local Living

Inca Jungle to Machu Picchu - 3 Days

I really dont have the right words to express the 3 Day Inca Jungle Tour. In a nutshell, it was amazing. I was very fortunate to have Jhimmy as my tourguide and so thankful for that. He came to my accomodations the night before the tour and introduced himself and went over all the expectations for the next few days. Jhimmy is knowlegable, thoughtful, and his love for his people and Peru just showed through when he talked about the Inca history. I highly enjoyed the tour and if your lucky get Jhimmy as your guide. Everything from mountain biking, white water rafting, hiking, food was magnificent.. I recommend this tour to anyone looking for a real action packed adventure and memorable experience. I wish I had more days in Peru. I'm missing it so much.

Iconic Peru National Geographic Journeys

The tour was amazing! The transportation was on time, the activities were great, guides were well prepared for presentations and questions. In the Amazon, Dellfort was enthusiastic to show us as many things as possible. During the Inca trail, Nick was always making sure we are doing ok, always communicating what was next (even duration of each path - extraordinary!). I had such a pleasant trip, it felt like vacation and also adventure. I am grateful for it and glad I could explore so much of Peru.

Peru Multi-Sport

The activities were great, we loved Saul, our guide, and the country was beautiful. It was a busy while relaxing trip.

Machu Picchu and the Amazon National Geographic Journeys

Pretour Comms were great: fast and clear. Tour logistics were good enough and daily communication clear. Few minor aspects unexpected eg additional meal costs, rental of equipment (sleeping bags, mattress). Local guides, porters were great ( as expected). At times the encouragement to tip all service providers felt excessive. Overall a good tour, given the small group and pricing.

What people love about Inca Trail Tours

Excellent trip just a pity Tekexperience changed the date so I missed out climbing Montana. Frank was a first class guide.

great guide, great sites to visit topped with Inka trail

Definitely exceeded my expectiation. Inca trail is hard and reaching Macchu Picchu is one of the most profound experience.

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WORLD TRAVEL AWARDS WINNER

THE #1 TOUR OPERATOR OF PERU

Leading the Way in Sustainable Tourism and Community Projects in Peru

BOOK YOUR INCA TRAIL TO MACHU PICCHU 2024

Book your inca trail to machu picchu.

Travel confidently with Alpaca Expeditions, the only Peru tour operator with over 17,000 excellent reviews on Trip Advisor "LOCAL - INDIGENOUS - SUSTAINABLE"

As the #1 tour operator in Peru, Alpaca Expeditions prides ourselves on superior service to our clients, creating unique and memorable adventures all around Peru. We will tailor each package and tour to fit your needs, no matter if you are a family with young children or a bunch of friends seeking an adventure. We pride ourselves on being sustainable and responsible, committed to improving the lives of our team and their families with better wages and services. We welcome all to visit Peru and can’t wait to introduce you to the Inca traditions. Our home is your next adventure.

Only company with More than 17,000 excellent reviews on Tripadvisor

Only company with 4 ISO + Green FootPrint ISO, International Organization for Standarization

Awards , Recognized as the Best Travel Agency in Peru

Trekkers Blogs  The best way to understand the experience of travelling with Alpaca is reading and watching what others have experienced with us.

More than 2K trips made safely with our  Satellite Phones

NEW and UNIQUE , 2022 add on will be the  cooking class  in all our camping treks , learn to cook under the stars and next to the mountains.

TOP TREKS & TOURS TO MACHU PICCHU

Inca Trail (Classic) 4D/3N Group Tour

Experience the famous Inca Trail for 4 amazing days, and pass through the Sun Gate for t

2-Day Short Inca Trail Trek with Hotel

The Short Inka Trail is designed for travelers who want to experience the magic of the I

Ultimate Classic Salkantay Trek 5D/5N

The Salkantay Trek is a favorite among hikers for the Humantay Blue Lagoon, glamping at

Sacred Valley & Classic Inca Trail to Machu Picchu 7D/6N

This is the ultimate package meticulously crafted to offer one of the most exceptional e

Sacred Valley & Machu Picchu 2D/1N

The Sacred Valley tour and train to Machu Picchu is designed for those who want a shorte

Choose your Vacation Type

ADVENTURE TREKKING TOURS

Hiking through the Peruvian Andes is no simple feat. Towering mountain ranges, lush cloud forests, vast valleys, and winding rivers are sure to leave you awestruck during your time in the Andes. Let our team of experts guide you in what is to become an unbeatable experience in nature. Join us, Peru’s #1 tour operator, in an adventure of a lifetime.

CULTURAL EXPERIENCES

There is no doubt Peru is a country full of colour, and rich in traditions. With our ethically-designed cultural experiences, we invite you to dive into a sea of cross-cultural interactions and the opportunity to appreciate the richness of Peruvian culture during your stay in Peru. Meet locals, learn their traditions, and share unforgettable moments.

PERU FIXED PACKAGES

Peru is filled with wonders sure to impress anyone. Here at Alpaca Expeditions, we have designed some of the best tour packages in Peru to include only the very best our country has to offer. Whether it is the Peruvian Andes or the warm coastal regions you wish to experience, we have something for you.

LUXURY TOURS

There is no better way to see Peru than with our luxury tours. Each tour has been carefully crafted with you in mind. Including only the very best in accommodations, culinary experiences, and sightseeing in some of the most iconic locations of Peru, our luxury tours are perfect for travelling royalty-style.

Why travel with Alpaca Expeditions?

Locally owned and operated., top trip leaders., highest quality, name brand equipment., delicious and nutritious meals, catering to all food restrictions., superior inclusions to competitors with no hidden fees., sustainable and responsible travel., safety conscious with first aid training annually., unique service philosophy dedicated to our porter welfare equally to our client services., fair and kind travel., equal employer with a focus on women’s rights in tourism., international and local recognition..

Most Popular Treks to Machu Picchu

Hiking to Machu Picchu is a true adventure, making the journey to the Inca Citadel as rewarding as the ruins themselves. There are lots of routes to take, from the most popular Classic Inca Trail 4D/3N to the longer Salkantay 5.5D/5N, all ending at Machu Picchu on your last day for an amazing tour of this World Wonder. Those interested in the Inca Trail do need to plan early as permits sell out very far in advance. Every trek we do is full of amazing landscape and history, so there is no wrong choice to make. Remember, the journey is the destination.

• 4 Days / 3 Nights
• Up to 12 -->
• Challenging

Luxury Inca Trail 4D/3N

Short Inca Trail trek with Camping 2D/1N

Lares Trek to Machu Picchu 4D/3N

4-Day Rainbow Mountain Trek Ausangate + Machu Picchu

Choquequirao Trek 5D/4N

Peru Packages

Travelling around Peru is a bit more complicated than other countries. Book one of our comprehensive packages and let Alpaca Expeditions handle all the difficult logistics and bookings. We have lots of options including all the highlights of Peru including the Amazon, Lake Titicaca, flights over the Nazca Lines, even foodie tours around Lima. And if our published itineraries aren’t perfect, we can customize just for you. We got you covered!

Cusco and Lake Titicaca 11D/10N

• 11 Days / 10 Nights

Cusco & Lake Titicaca 9D/8N

Cusco & Amazon 12D/11N

Cusco & Amazon 10D/9N

• 10 Days / 9 Nights

Amazon – cusco – Lake Titicaca 15D/14N

• 15 Days / 14 Nights

Amazon – cusco – Lake Titicaca 13D/12N

• 13 Days / 12 Nights

Totally Peru Package 22D / 21N

Totally Peru Package 20D / 19N

• 20 Days / 19 Nights

Cusco, Sacred Valley & 2D Inca Trail – 4 Days / 4 Nights

• 4 Days / 4 Nights

Cusco, Sacred Valley, Inca Trail 2D & Rainbow Mountain – 5D/4N

• 5 Days / 4 Nights

8D/7N Tour: Highlights of Cusco

• 8 Days / 7 Nights

Cultural Tours

Our cultural tours are designed to offer the most unique highlights of our region. There is so much to see in the city and surrounding valley to learn more about our history and culture. And the views are breathtaking. Our cultural tours can be done in a day or two and include all of what makes Alpaca Expeditions special: top rated tour guide and impeccable service.

Rainbow Mountain Tour & Red Valley Hike 1-Day Trip

Cusco City Tour, Sacred Valley & Machu Picchu Tour 3D/2N

Sacred Valley 2 Day & Machu Picchu 3D/2N

Humantay Blue Lagoon Day Hike

Sacred Valley – Full Day

Maras Moray – Half Day

Alpaca Difference

Alpaca Expeditions differentiates itself from the rest in many aspects. hand in hand with its workers and collaborators.

Inca Trail Porter Welfare

Empowering Women

Top Hiking Logistics

Leading the Way in Sustainable Tourism and Community Projects in Peru Since 2013

Our Inca Trail Porters First Visit to Machu Picchu

Queuña Trees

Free Medical Assistance to Porters

The Children of Huama Visit the South Valley in Cusco

Fixing the smiles of Choquekancha villagers

English Teacher in Llullucha Town

Empowering peru women and opening the door to women in tourism.

We understand the importance of extra safety measures to make sure our Peru Women Guides and Porters are comfortable at all times. Sexual harassment is real in all industries, but with women and men sleeping so close together, we needed to be clear on proper behavior. We decided to hire an outside coach to review with everyone on our team the Do’s and Don’ts. He helped to reinforce the rules we have at Alpaca Expeditions, like no drinking on the job (this leads to poor choices), no touching, careful language, be respectful to everyone. And a reminder that we are a team and we need to stick up for each other and ourselves.

ALPACA EXPEDITIONS & SUSTAINABLE TOURISM

The tourism industry is very important in Peru and it also has a great impact on a lot of families and the environment itself. Alpaca Expeditions is a sustainable tourism tour operator. We protect our land and environment at every tour and trek to preserve it for future generations. Alpaca Expeditions also retributes with the local communities with different social projects all along every year. We do our best to get back to our communities and also to make the best for our staff. We protect our land, our clients and our staff. Travelling responsibly is the new way to travel and we can make it happen for you!

What Our Clients Say In Tripadvisor

Alpaca expeditions recognitions, iso (international organization for standardization).

In the pursuit to stand out from the rest, Alpaca Expeditions has obtained four ISOs plus our carbon footprint certificate to date. These achievements result from our efforts to implement the internationally-recognized integrated management system. They also represent our commitment to all of our clients and staff of operating sustainability and responsibility in every way possible.

World Travel Awards

Alpaca Expeditions is internationally recognized as a leading tourism company in Peru. As proof, we have been awarded the World Travel Award for Peru´s Best Tour Operator 2021 for the second time.

TRIPADVISOR RECOGNITIONS

Our goal at Alpaca Expeditions is to create the best experience for all of our clients. We create journeys that are to be remembered for a lifetime. Journeys you can be proud of and can share with everybody around you.

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Hotel to Hotel service

Regarding the transportation provided by Alpaca Expeditions, we are committed to delivering a quality service. We strive to ensure that passengers feel supported throughout their journey. To achieve this, we coordinate closely with our guides and representatives to ensure timely pick-up at the start of their tours. Additionally, we have representatives responsible for escorting our passengers to their hotels at the conclusion of any tour.

Our drivers are not only trained in customer service but also come properly uniformed, and many are fluent in English.

Typically, all transportation types are included in each of our services. For instance, if you have booked a trekking tour, we will pick you up early, typically between 4 AM and 5 AM. When visiting Cusco, it's important to note that traffic here is generally moderate. However, there are peak traffic times, such as between 7 AM and 8 AM, which coincide with school hours, and in the evening between 6:00 PM and 8:00 PM. Therefore, if you have a flight during these times, it's crucial to be at the airport at least 2 hours in advance. The drivers of Alpaca Expeditions ensure their vehicles are prepared with all necessities before each service. They are acutely aware that delays can lead to missed trains, flights, or other connections. Consequently, they are always more than punctual, arriving at least 10 minutes before the scheduled time for any service, understanding the responsibility they carry in executing these tasks.

Personal Porter of 7KG

Remember that Alpaca Expeditions offers an extra 7 kg allowance for your personal belongings on any of our tours. We include a personal porter who is responsible for carrying your duffel bag without any additional fee. You will not have access to your duffel bag until you reach your evening campsite. The bag should not exceed 7 kg, which includes 4 kg for clothes and 3 kg for your sleeping bag and sleeping mat.

Each Alpaca Expeditions porter is paid directly after each trek, allowing them to return home more quickly. They receive better wages than our competitors, health insurance, and all their equipment free of charge, including hiking boots, pants, jerseys, fleeces, jackets, hats, flashlights, sleeping bags, and high-quality food. We ensure each of our porters has a comfortable bed in a pleasant room to sleep in before and after each trek. We also visit the communities they live in, providing toothpaste, toothbrushes, soap, and other necessary supplies to their families, along with books for their children.

This is just the beginning for us, and we are always looking for ways to do more. While the government allows each porter to carry up to 25 kg, we limit this to 20 kg to prioritize their health and safety. Each porter carries up to 15 kg of company equipment and 5 kg of personal items. This is why it is crucial to keep your personal duffel bag weight under our 7 kg limit. You might see other companies allowing their porters to carry more than the allotted weight, but at Alpaca Expeditions, we strictly adhere to these limits to ensure our porters' well-being.

Clases de Cocina

Alpaca Expeditions offers its passengers the chance to experience local cooking. We aim to immerse trekkers in Inca life by walking them through the original Inca paths and teaching them about Inca culture. Food is a significant part of Inca life, making it a special element in any tour or trek with Alpaca Expeditions.

In 2022, Alpaca Expeditions introduced a cooking class as part of each of our treks, conducted by our amazing trekking chefs and interpreted by our guides.

We will transform your dining tent into a makeshift kitchen, providing all the necessary supplies to prepare a Peruvian specialty. Your chef will guide you step by step through the process of making a traditional Peruvian meal, such as Lomo Saltado, and share some essential mountain cooking tips.

Peru is recognized as a top culinary destination, largely thanks to the popularity of our renowned beef dish, Lomo Saltado. This is most often the meal you will learn to cook, but there is also the opportunity to learn how to prepare other dishes like traditional Peruvian ceviche or even our signature drink, the pisco sour.

Cooking Class on the Inca Trail: These classes are voluntary and designed to be a fun, educational experience. Our clients consistently marvel at the amazing ability of our chefs to create culinary magic on a mountaintop. As you learn to prepare and cook Peruvian specialties, you will also see firsthand how such elaborate meals can be created on a small campsite stove.

Enjoy a cooking class in the mountains and be sure to take plenty of photos, just in case your friends won't believe your incredible experience.

Satellite Phones

The best way to hike in the mountains of Peru is to completely disconnect from technology, especially the internet and cell phones. The most impressive and exciting aspect is the opportunity to experience the true and wonderful nature that we often miss when we are at home, watching TV or absorbed in our cell phones during our leisure time. The feeling of being disconnected from work and the daily routine left at home is incredible.

However, this remoteness means limited access to emergency resources. That's why Alpaca Expeditions has invested in satellite phones for every trek.

We are prepared to assist you in case of any emergency, particularly health-related issues. For this reason, Alpaca Expeditions has invested in satellite phones, as they are one of the most crucial tools for any operator trekking in remote areas where telephone or television signals are absent. This means that every guide on our treks will be equipped with a fully charged satellite phone as well as radios. While these are primarily for emergencies, we allow our clients to use them at any time.

We ask that you cover the cost, which is $2.50 per minute. This fee can be paid in cash at our office or via PayPal once you have completed the trek.

Being just a phone call away from any doctor, hospital, or friend helps everyone feel assured of their safety. Radios, which all our guides carry, have limited reach, so Alpaca Expeditions includes satellite phones to ensure that we can connect no matter where we are on the mountain.

Portable private toilet

We understand that our clients will need restroom facilities at various times and locations during their journey. Along the Inca Trail, there are restrooms available, particularly those belonging to the communities near the trail. Alpaca Expeditions provides portable toilets to enhance this service, which will be set up at each meal site or campsite.

As with any mountain trip where we are exposed to nature, it is possible to use natural areas as restrooms. However, it is crucial to be mindful of the waste we generate, such as toilet paper or wet wipes used for cleaning. These should be carried with us and not discarded on the ground or left along the trail. Remember, the Inca Trail is a protected area overseen by a government institution. In places where garbage bins are unavailable, particularly at our camps, we provide special plastic bags for waste. Our porter team will be responsible for carrying out our waste.

Please be aware that although there are designated bathrooms for men and women, in practice, both genders often use the same facilities. Functionally, there is no significant difference between men's and women's bathrooms. Therefore, it is common for people of all genders to use whichever bathroom is available.

Inca Trail Tours

Join one of our Inca Trail tours through the Andes mountains and make your grand entrance into Machu Picchu through the Sun Gate. Embark on the rewarding 4-day Inca Trail trek or opt for the condensed 2-day Inca Trail experience. This is the most famous trek in South America and permits for Inca Trail tours are limited, so advanced planning is a must.

Fully Customizable

Personalized service, handpicked hotels, 5000 + testimonials.

Book with confidence! Postpone at no cost up to 30 days prior with zero fees with open dates. Learn more.

The Top 6 Inca Trail Tours for 2024/2025

The most flexible booking terms!

Zero postponement fees up to 30 days before arrival, transferable travel credit , and only a 30% deposit required to secure your trip.

Customize your Tour

Answer your call to adventure on the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu. Our Inca Trail tour packages include English-speaking expert guides, accommodation, and more. Contact us to plan your dream trip and ask how you can further customize your itinerary to experience more of the country’s diverse highlights.

What to See in Inca Trail

Tread upon the same stones once walked upon by the royal Inca Empire. The Inca Trail is a 500-year old pathway that brings you directly to the Sun Gate at Machu Picchu for a rewarding journey filled with scenic moments you’ll never forget.

The Llactapata or sometimes called Patallacta ruins are approximately 1 mile (1.5 kilometers) from the start of the Inca Trail. These are the first set of ruins you'll see while hiking the Inca Trail.

Located right on the edge of the precipice, Sayacmarca is an impressive example of the Incas engineering skills.

This semi-circular Inca ruin is a scenic resting place along the Inca Trail. With a vantage point over the valley below, it has a well-thought-out position and is believed to have been used for ceremonial functions.

Phuyupatamarca

At 11,800 feet (3,600 meters) above sea level, Phuyupatamarca or Puyupatamarca is called the city in the clouds. Here you can find stone baths that are part of the Incan irrigation systems nourishing the green terraces.

Dead Woman’s Pass

Dead Woman's Pass, at 13,800 feet (4,215 meters) above sea level, is the highest point along the Inca Trail. Once you beat this part of the trek, the hardest part is behind you!

Wiñay Wayna

The Wiñay Wayna ruins are your last set of off-the-beaten-path Inca ruins you'll encounter on your Inca Trail trek. Terraces and Inca irrigation systems that still have water flowing down them make this spot an impressive resting place.

Inti Punku, or the Sun Gate, is your first point of contact with the Machu Picchu fortress. From this viewpoint on your Inca Trail trek, you'll see the Huayna Picchu ruins, Machu Picchu citadel, and surrounding mountain landscapes.

Machu Picchu Fortress

The UNESCO World Heritage site of Machu Picchu is what you've been waiting for! Witness its breathtaking sites and fascinating history.

View Travel Guide

Lake Titicaca & Puno Hotels

GHL Hotel Lago Titicaca

Isla Esteves s/n, Puno

GHL Hotel Lago Titicaca is located right on the shores of Lake Titicaca on a private peninsula. With tastefully decorated rooms, modern amenities, and perfect views of Lake Titicaca, this hotel has all the makings for an unforgettable stay.

Casa Andina Premium Puno

Avenida Sesqui Centenario 1970, Sector Huaje, Puno

Casa Andina Premium Puno is a magnificent upscale hotel that will add to the unforgettable memories made on the shores of Lake Titicaca. This 4-star hotel has an onsite gourmet restaurant, a private pier leading to Lake Titicaca, and rooms with scenic wooden balconies overlooking Lake Titicaca.

Sonesta Posadas del Inca Puno

The Sonesta Posadas del Inca is ideally located on the shores of Lake Titicaca and just a few miles from Puno’s main plaza. Enjoy sitting outside or dining at the on-site Inkafé restaurant as you relax next to the deep blue waters that overlook snow-capped peaks.

Avenida Chulluni 195, Puno

The Xima Puno Hotel is a charming 2-star option with beautifully manicured grounds. This is a great option for comfort, excellent service, and affordable prices while you visit Lake Titicaca.

Peru Highlights

Peru is filled with archaeological ruins, scenic landscapes, and delicious flavors. Must-see places in Peru include:

Hike the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu in four or two days. The Inca Trail is a 500-year old pathway where the elite Incas once entered into the “Lost City of the Incas”. Plan with your Peru for Less travel advisor in advance, Inca Trail permits tend to sell out even 6-months in advance.

Amazon Rainforest

Step into the lush Peruvian Amazon Rainforest and witness a spectacular array of wildlife in its natural habitat. Lodges in Puerto Maldonado are ideal for excursions and daily activities. Those looking for a more luxurious Amazon experience would love an Iquitos Amazon River cruise. Colorful macaws, giant tarantulas, and playful river otters are among the sights you’ll behold.

Cusco city has it all, archaeological ruins, colonial buildings, top-rated restaurants, and countless places to explore. Your Cusco City Tour will take you to the top highlights like Sacsayhuaman, Q’enko, the Cusco Cathedral, and more.

Lake Titicaca

Sail on the deep blue waters of Lake Titicaca and step on the reed Uros and Taquile floating islands. Some of the best weavers are found in this area so pick up some Peruvian textiles here for unique souvenirs.

Lima is a mixture of modern city living and historical significance. Here you’ll find Central restaurant (ranked #6 by 50 Worlds Best), UNESCO World Heritage sites like Historic City Center with the San Francisco Convent, and the best shopping in Peru.

Nazca Lines

The Nazca Lines are mysterious geoglyphs and geometric shapes drawn onto the desert floor hundreds of years ago by the Nazca culture. Little is known about them nevertheless, the Nazca Lines inspire awe in those who take a flight over them.

Arequipa is a picturesque town and also the second-largest city in Peru. Local markets, beautifully built colonial architecture, and El Misti volcano are among the things you’ll see while walking the cobblestone streets of the white city.

How difficult is the Inca Trail trek?

The Inca Trail is considered a difficult trek because of its high elevation and sections of steep stone steps. However, the diverse landscapes and stunning views make this trek a worthwhile challenge!

What are my options for hiking to Machu Picchu?

The Inca Trail is the only hiking option that ends directly at the Machu Picchu citadel. The Inca Trail is available as a 4-day trek as well as a 2-day shortened version. Alternative hiking options to the Inca Trail also include a tour of Machu Picchu on the last day, however they do not end at the Machu Picchu ruins. For example, the Salkantay trek ends in Aguas Calientes while the Lares trek ends at the Ollantaytambo train station.

What is the difference between the 2-day and 4-day Inca Trail hike?

The 2-day and 4-day Inca Trail use the same trail, just with different starting points. The 4-day option starts at KM 82 near Ollantaytambo while the 2-day version starts at KM 104. The 2-day version bypasses Dead Woman’s Pass and the other more difficult spots, making it a more moderate trek. Both options still take you directly to the Sun Gate at Machu Picchu.

What do I need to bring for the Inca Trail hike?

Packing essentials for the Inca Trail are:

• Plastic bags to store wet clothes
• Toiletries & medicines
• Insect repellant
• Reusable water bottle
• Hiking boots & sandals for camp
• Lightweight t-shirts
• Lightweight sweaters
• Sleepwear & evening wear for camp
• Socks & underwear
• Hat & sunglasses
• Sleeping bag suitable to 23ºF (-5ºC) – can be rented.

How far in advance should I plan my Inca Trail hike?

Six months in advance. Inca Trail permits go on sale at the end of each year for the following year. For high-season dates from May–September, permits can sell out six months in advance. If you are flexible with your travel dates and don’t mind hiking during the shoulder seasons (March/April, October/November) or rainy season (December/January), less advanced planning is required.

Also, If you wish to hike to Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain once you are within Machu Picchu, be sure to bring this up to your travel advisor. These hikes have limited availability and a permit must be purchased about six months in advance for these hikes as well.

What is the food like on the Inca Trail?

The 4-day Inca Trail tour with Peru For Less will include plenty of food to keep you fueled for this grueling hike. Breakfast will be a big spread, while lunches and dinners include soups, chicken and rice, fried fish, veggies, french fries, beans and more.

Tell your Travel Advisor in advance if you have any dietary restrictions, such as vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, etc. Dietary restrictions are easily accommodated and will have just as much nutritious food.

Do I need a guide for the Inca Trail?

Yes. Peru’s Ministry of Tourism has made it mandatory to be accompanied by a registered tour guide to hike the 4-day and 2-day Inca Trail.

Should I hike the Inca Trail with a private or group tour?

A private Inca Trail tour is best for those concerned about their experience level affecting the rest of the group or for those simply wanting to do the trail with fewer people. On the other hand, a group Inca Trail tour allows travelers to share their hiking experience with new people.

How many people are in a group Inca Trail tour?

Peru For Less group Inca Trail tours have a maximum of 8 people per guide so that even in a group tour, you’ll feel well looked-after.

How can I hike the Inca Trail on a budget?

For the most affordable Inca Trail hike, opt for a group tour instead of private. Tips for porters and chefs can be split between larger groups, making total costs per person cheaper. We ensure that our tours offer the best quality and value, while also providing fair wages to porters, guides and chefs.

What can I do to prepare for my Inca Trail hike?

It is recommended to do some physical activity prior to your trip so that you’re in good physical condition to hike for multiple days. Walk or jog in your neighborhood, go on hikes in your region, do cardio exercises at the gym, and/or practice yoga or other physical activities. Also, prior to the hike, allow yourself the time to acclimate in Cusco for at least two days.

When is the best time to hike the Inca Trail?

The best time to hike the Inca Trail is during the dry season from May to September. Nights will be chillier, but you are unlikely to have rain during your trek. The next best time is during the shoulder seasons, March–April and October–November.

The rainy season from December to January isn’t recommended unless you really prefer few people and don’t mind the rain. Note that the Inca Trail is closed during the entire month of February for maintenance and safety reasons.

Will I get altitude sickness?

Altitude sickness, also known as Acute Mountain Sickness, occurs in 40-50 percent of people who live in low elevation areas traveling to an elevation of 10,000 feet or more. It occurs in 25 percent of people traveling to a destination of 8,000 feet or more. It is a temporary condition characterized by slight headache, shortness of breath when walking, fatigue, minor dizziness and loss of appetite. Symptoms develop between 6 to 24 hours of being at higher elevations, and last one to three days. It is typically mild and no need for alarm.

There are many ways to combat altitude sickness , like drinking lots of water, avoiding heavy and fatty foods, no smoking or drinking alcohol, eating whole grains and veggies and taking it slow the first couple days. Do not begin a challenging hike the first two days at high elevation, start your trek on day three the earliest.

What is your travel insurance program?

We do not directly offer travel insurance but can provide recommendations. Insurance companies such as itravelinsured , World Nomads , insuremytrip , and SquareMouth are good options. Please note that Peru for Less does not have any affiliation with the listed travel insurance companies. For a free quote and policy options you will need to contact the companies directly. It will be important to select a company and policy that fits your needs, even if not one listed there.

Contact Us today to cross the Inca Trail off your hiking bucket list!

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Inca Trail Machu Picchu Tours

We, at Inca Trail Machu , are professionals with many years of experience. For 7 years, we have been providing tours in Peru. We specialize in trekking tours, natural, cultural and tailor made trips, such as the Inca Trail , alternatives treks and Machu Picchu tours , through sports tours, also expeditions to the Amazon Rainforest, through sightseeing to family and luxury holidays. We are happy to serve groups, companies as well as solo travlers. Our best publicity is that customers return to us! We got on TripAdvisor a the Certificate of Excellence 2023 . Also At Inca Trail Machu , we are very keen and happy to promote and practice sustainable tourism by being eco-friendly and supporting local communities.

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How to Book the Inca Trail 2024?

Choose the best Inca Trail tour option with INCA TRAIL MACHU , the leading tour operator since 2017. We offer 2, 4, 5, and 7-day hiking options on the Inca Trail Peru . If you have more time, consider selecting a travel package to Peru that includes the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu.

Check the available spaces for the Inca Trail with us. Once you've chosen your preferred travel date, easily BOOK ONLINE! We have an easy booking system and provide assistance 24/7 via WhatsApp for any doubts or questions.

INCA TRAIL MACHU has a dedicated team based in Cusco ready to book and secure your trail.

This means that as soon as your permit is confirmed, you are 100% guaranteed to trek on the date you desire.

Once the spots are confirmed, we require a pre-payment for your Inca Trail permits , with the remaining amount payable in cash in Cusco.

In the rare event that the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu is sold out, we will recommend the best alternative trek to the Inca Trail Peru . It's the perfect option for your Machu Picchu trek adventure.

Inca Trail Machu Reviews

Trek to salkantay 4 days, david martinez.

Edmar did an incredible job of guiding us on our 5 day trek.

He kept everything very organized and I always felt that I was in good hands.

Salkantay Mountain Trek

Many thanks to our guide, he gave us wonderfull days on the track " Salkantay " he gave us a lot of interesting information and support in difficult situations.

Salkantay Trek

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The Inca Trail & Machu Picchu

• Machu Picchu
• The Inca Trail & Machu Picchu

Trek the Inca Trail and be awed by a civilization that ruled as the backbone of the Andes for nearly a century.

Picture this: ruins perched seamlessly in cloud forest, challenging mountain passes with snow-capped Andean views, and friendly Peruvian porters, guides and chefs making it as fun and as comfortable as possible at every step of the way. Peru 's iconic Inca Trail is a chance to follow in the footsteps of a great lost civilization, a trek leading from the old capital of Cusco through the Sacred Valley to the ruins of Ollantaytambo, and up to the Sun Gate overlooking mighty Machu Picchu . And once you’ve experienced it, you’ll see why this is considered the mother of all South American treks.

At a glance

Number of ruins

Average duration

Peak time to trek

Our inca trail tours, inca trail express, 7 days from 1377.

Travel to Peru to discover Peru's ancient civilisation. Trek or train to Machu Picchu,...

Sacred Land of the Incas

15 days from 3159.

Visit the Sacred Land of the Inca and delight in Peru's culture with two weeks through...

Inca Trail Express from Lima

8 days from 1535.

Travel to Peru and retrace the steps of the Inca. Follow traditions from Lima to Cusco,...

Inca Trail & Amazon Adventure

12 days from 2529.

Travel from the heights of the Andes to the exotic Amazon rainforest on this best of...

Peru Encompassed

20 days from 4008.

See the highlights of Peru from Lima to Cusco including the Nazca Lines, Machu Picchu,...

Tailor-Made trips

Take four or more on an exclusive trip and tailor your itinerary

Peru Family Holiday

9 days from 2615.

Visit Peru on this Family Adventure, travelling through Lima, Cusco and Aguas Calientes...

Galapagos & Inca Trail Adventure

17 days from 6782.

Focus on two of South America's heaviest hitters on this 17-day tour through both the...

Peru Essentials

21 days from 2597.

See Peru in-depth on a trip from Lima to La Paz. Trek the Inca Trail and marvel at...

Inca Encounter

10 days from 3324.

Embark on an immersive journey through Peru, introducing you to Lima, Cusco, the Amazon...

Explore Peru & Bolivia

25 days from 5054.

Explore Peru and Bolivia on this epic tour. Travel from Lima to La Paz, tackle the Inca...

Ultimate Peru, Argentina & Brazil

30 days from 8704.

Travel from the city sights of Lima through to the vibrant beat of Rio via Machu Picchu...

Peruvian Pathways

14 days from 4364.

Travel to Peru and discover it's fascinating landscapes and traditions. Spy wildlife in...

South America Highlights

44 days from 6622.

Take in Lima, Arequipa, the Inca Trail, La Paz, Buenos Aires and Rio de Janeiro on this...

Peru, Bolivia & Argentina Adventure

35 days from 4467.

Travel to South America, from Lima to Buenos Aires, and Cusco, Machu Picchu, Lake...

Best of South America

51 days from 7502.

Take an epic South American adventure to Peru, Bolivia, Argentina and Brazil via Machu...

Highlights of the Inca Trail

The anticipation is over and day one of hiking begins. Llactapata (meaning ‘high town’) sets the scene, with its beautiful lined terraces and housing structures dating back to the 16th century.

Dead Woman's Pass

This is the most challenging (and highest) leg of the Inca Trail trail. Once you’ve made it over Dead Woman’s Pass you can give yourself one big pat on the back! You’ll encounter the 4215 m (13,828 ft) peak on the second day of the hike with some downright stunning views of the valley below.

Winayhuayna

Winayhuayna packs a punch overlooking the Urubamba River – with upper and lower terraces lined with well-preserved stone houses on a hillside. Arriving at the ruins on the fourth day, this is the final marker of the journey before you reach Machu Picchu.

Inti Punku (Sun Gate)

Inti Punku, better known as the Sun Gate, brings you to the spectacular entrance of Machu Picchu. Evidence suggests this structure was used as a security checkpoint, and the views overlooking the ancient city ruins are impressive to say the least.

Why choose Intrepid

Trek experts

All our guides are certified local tour guides and trained in-house on Intrepid Safety Policies. Each trekking guide also receives exclusive Intrepid training, provided by mountain rescue experts in the field.

Safety First

All our guides and trek leaders have been trained by medical specialists in handling altitude illness and are proficient in first aid. Our team carries oxygen cylinders on all treks for emergency use.

Local matters

Our team members live and work in the Andean region, which means revenue from all our treks benefit the local economy.

Full inclusions

We take care of the details, so you can focus more on enjoying the journey. Our tours include all meals, with essential camping equipment and the option to hire additional hiking equipment if needed.

Rainforest Alliance tick of approval

We are proud to have the tick of approval from the Rainforest Alliance indicating that we meet and operate at the highest standards in environmental, social and economic sustainability

Sustainable travel

We strive to use travel as a force for good. That’s why we choose to give back to the communities we visit, carbon offset all our trips and take our social and environmental responsibilities seriously. We’ve been officially certified as the world’s largest travel B Corp, which means when you choose Intrepid Travel, you can rest assured you’re travelling to improve the planet.

Meet our team

Maritza, operations manager

"I am passionate about empowering local Indigenous communities, especially women, and am also a committed defender of Mother Earth, known in the Andes as Pachamama. I have also worked tirelessly with local communities and governments to help improve the sustainability of treks in the Cusco region".

Paul, leader

“It will be a pleasure to share our traditions and beliefs, take you to the most amazing sites and, most importantly, interact with the locals! Get ready for a behind-the-scenes tour where we’ll visit hole-in-the-wall restaurants and find the best picarones (Andean doughnuts). I’ll be waiting for you here, in my beloved Peru."

Fernando, general manager

"I like working for Intrepid because their social and environmental philosophy isn’t just a slogan to sell more trips, they really do care about it. I have changed my life in so many aspects due to all the learning coming from Intrepid, from recycling to accepting myself, and being proud for who I am."

Ascencio, porter

"I started working with Intrepid in 2014 and now I'm 61 years old. I'm very happy to be working with Intrepid because each porter's treatment is better than other tour operators in Peru. Because of this job (which includes fair pay), I can provide a better education for my children". 

Valentina, porter

"I come from Huilloc Community in Ollantaytambo town in the Sacred Valley (Cusco), and I started working as a porter on the Inca Trail in 2021. I love walking the Inca Trail and I'm very happy to be working for Intrepid as my income enables me to provide a better education for my 7 children". 

Teofilo, porter

"I'm from the Community of Kalla Rayan (Calca town) in the Sacred Valley, and I'm 53 years old. I've worked as a porter for Intrepid since 2009, mainly because I love it and we have very good working conditions. Thanks to my job, I've saved money to spend on my wife and better education for my children". 

When is the best time to trek the Inca trail?

Peru is a year-round destination, although most people plan to trek during the dry season, running from April to October. The mid-year months, June and July, are the most popular and therefore the most crowded times of year to visit. Low cloud cover in these winter months also means cold nights on the trail, so bring some thermal wear for a good night’s sleep.

When is the high season on the Inca Trail?

The high season for trekking in Peru runs over the drier months from April to October. The most popular time to hike the Inca Trail is in June and July – which is therefore the most crowded time. Since the number of permits for the Inca Trail is capped – this means a maximum of about 200 tourists a day can start the trail. If you intend to hike the Inca Trail between April and October, we recommend booking and confirming your trip 6–7 months in advance.

When is the rainy season?

The wet season runs from November to March – this is when the temperature rises, and the region receives heavy rainfall. The Inca Trail closes every year in February (the wettest month of the year) for maintenance.

Do I need a permit to hike the Inca Trail?

To help preserve the Inca Trail, the Peruvian authorities restrict available permits to only 500 per day (made up of about 200 tourists and 300 porters). Permits are available on a first-come, first-served basis, so booking well in advance is imperative. For this reason, if you want to hike the Inca Trail, it’s best to supply (at the time of booking) the full details of the passport you will be travelling with. We endeavour to purchase your permit within two working days of receiving all necessary information and relevant payment. Please keep in mind that the Inca Trail is closed during February for maintenance.

Very important: since permits are non-changeable and non-refundable, please consult with Intrepid before changing any passport details after booking, as this may result in your permit being invalid.

If we can’t secure Inca Trail permits, you can:

• Change to another one of our trips or choose a different departure date without incurring any penalties.
• Hike the equally incredible Inca Quarry Trail , which includes a day trip to Machu Picchu.
• Stay two nights in Cusco, then travel to Aguas Calientes by train and spend the day exploring Machu Picchu before returning to Cusco.

When we reach Machu Picchu, how much time will we spend at the ruins?

The fourth day (the grand finale) starts before dawn, with breakfast at 4.30 am. Say farewell to the porters as they descend to the train station and begin your hike by 5.30 am. Walk to Inti Punku, aka the Sun Gate (approximately 2.5 hours). Weather permitting, enjoy unforgettable views over Machu Picchu , the ‘Lost City of the Incas’, in the morning light (before the crowds arrive). Tours usually last for 1.5–2 hours.

How does the tour of Machu Picchu work?

Current regulations of Machu Picchu allow visitors to explore the ruins in one of two timeslots: morning or afternoon. You can choose one of three designated circuits, to be followed in one direction only. On completion of your chosen circuit, you'll need to leave the site; exploring the ruins afterwards on your own is currently not allowed.

Those visiting by train can take a bus on their own to explore the upper section (Sun Gate and Inka Bridge), before commencing their guided tour which runs from 10 am until 12:30 pm.

Those hiking the Inca Trail will arrive at Machu Picchu at around 8:30 am and can explore the upper section for approximately one hour. Your guided Machu Picchu tour will then run from 9:30 until 12:30.

Is there a minimum age requirement for children hiking the Inca trail?

While there is no official minimum age for hiking the trail, we do recommend children be at least 10 years. Parents considering taking their child on a trek should be mindful of the physical challenges – the Inca Trail is labelled as a moderate trek, but for most people hiking at over 3000 metres (10,000 ft), continuously up and down valleys can be strenuous activity. While the trail can be completed by a person with moderate fitness, it is worth considering whether your child would be able to meet the physical requirements of the trek.

How high is the Inca Trail?

During the trek itself, you will move up and down through altitudes each day with the peak reached at the infamous Dead Woman’s Pass – sitting at 4215 m (13,828 ft) above sea level. This is nearly 1800 m (5905 ft) higher than the site of Machu Picchu .

Is the Inca Trail difficult?

The Inca Trail is within the abilities of most reasonably fit people, but please come prepared, as the trail is 43 km (26 mi) long and often steep. Each day's journey generally consists of seven hours of walking (uphill and downhill), with stops for snacks and lunch. Accommodation on the trek is camping (three nights). Double tents (twin-share) and foam camping mats will be provided. The porters will set up the tents while the cook prepares meals.

How many hours will I hike a day?

Each day you will awaken at about 7 am (except on the final day which starts at 4.30 am) and hike for about 7 hours a day along the trail.

How is the Inca Trail different to the Quarry Trail?

The equally beautiful Quarry Trail is a 3 day/2 night 26 km (16 mi) loop trek ending in Kachiqata, before taking you by train to Aguas Calientes – the gateway town of Machu Picchu.

The Quarry Trail i s shorter than the 43 km Inca Trail – with a slightly higher altitude reached (4,450 metres above sea level). On the Quarry Trail you camp two nights and the third is spent at a hotel in Aguas Calientes (The Inca Trail camps three nights). The Quarry Trail is quickly gaining a reputation for its amazing archaeological sites and off-the-beaten-path cultural interactions. Permits are not required for the Quarry Trail.

How cold does it get?

Depending on what time of year you visit Peru, the temperature can vary. Peru has two seasons (the wet and dry). The dry season (winter) runs from May to September, with moderately warm days and cold nights. It’s important to pack thermals and warm clothing for the evening.

Is altitude sickness common?

Most people can start to feel the effects of altitude at over 2000 m (6561 ft) regardless of age, gender or fitness level. While our leaders have basic first aid training and are aware of the closest medical facilities, it is very important that you make yourself aware of the cause and effects of travelling at altitude, monitor your health and seek assistance accordingly.

It’s important to take it easy, drink plenty of water and speak to your leader at once if you feel unwell.

We recommend seeing your doctor if you have any health concerns before undertaking the trip. Particularly if you have a pre-existing medical condition or are taking any medication.

What type of accommodation can I expect on the Inca Trail?

Accommodation on the Inca Trail is camping (3 nights). Double tents (twin-share) and foam camping mats will be provided. The porters will set up the tents while the cook prepares meals.

Do porters carry our luggage on the Inca Trail?

While you're away from Cusco, the bulk of your luggage will be stored at your hotel. The evening before you leave Cusco you'll receive a small duffle bag to carry your clothes in for the next four days (6 kg maximum). Your team of porters will carry these bags for you, together with the food and equipment for the trail. Keep in mind that you won't have access to these items until the end of each day, as the porters will always be ahead of the group.

What type of food will be served on the Inca Trail?

All meals are provided on our camping trips, and we often cook the region's specialities so you don't miss out. Please let us know before your trip starts if you have any dietary requirements.

Is purified water available on the trail?

Boiled water will be supplied daily. You should be carrying at least 2 litres of water daily while trekking. Depending on whether you have a hydration bladder in your bag or not we recommend bringing two (1 litre) bottles that can be refilled on the trail with boiled water.

Can I bring my own walking stick?

Yes, you can bring your own walking stick or hiking poles. Alternatively, you can hire poles locally for around 10 USD for the four days.

What is the suggested amount that I should tip the guides and porters?

We recommend you carry the below suggested amounts with you during the trek, and that you carry small bills as this makes splitting the tip an easier process. On the last day of the trek the tips will be broken down into envelopes – one per porter, assistant guides and guide.

While on the Inca Trail we suggest a total tipping amount of PEN 120 to PEN 180 per person (approximately USD 37 to USD 55).

This is generally the tipping breakdown:

Porters, cook and assistants PEN 80 to PEN 120

Assistant guide: PEN 12 to PEN 20

Guide: PEN 27 to PEN 40

What are the toilets like on the Inca Trail?

Toilet blocks are situated along the Inca Trail but with little maintenance currently taking place, this is not a pleasant experience for any hiker.

At the end of each day, we provide a camping toilet tent. It’s a 1 sqm tent with a small portable chemical toilet in it. It’s nothing to write home about, but it’s decent! And most importantly, it’s all carried down the mountain by the porters. You will need to pack a torch for venturing out if nature calls at night, and bring some toilet paper. You’ll also want to take a bottle of hand sanitiser.

What should I pack for the Inca Trail?

You will find a complete list of what to pack for this trip under ‘What to take’ in your trip notes.

How do we get back to Cusco?

After spending the day exploring Machu Picchu, you will take a train and bus through the Sacred Valley and back to Cusco, arriving in the evening.

Can I hike the Inca Trail if I have a disability?

Yes, but of course it will depend on your level of disability, fitness and what support will be available to you. Travellers who are visually impaired have completed the Inca Trail – with the right support crew of course. Contact us to discuss your circumstances and we can assess it from there.

Is it possible to skip the Inca Trail even if the tour includes it?

Yes. Let us know at the time of booking what option you would prefer:

• Hike the equally incredible Inca Quarry Trail , which includes a visit to Machu Picchu;

These changes are free of charge if made at the time of booking. Changes after Inca Trail permits have been purchased, or within 60 days of departure, will incur additional fees.

Life on the trail

The Inca Trail doesn’t have any permanent facilities, but never fear – we travel well prepared. You’ll sleep in modern two-person dome tents on foam sleeping mats, set up by our friendly porters who will also carry your heavier packs. Hot meals will be cooked by our chefs each night to load you up with carbohydrates for the next day’s walking. You’ll also get a bowl of warm water each day to wash with. Check out the gallery below for a preview of what life on the trail looks like. 

Not the hiking type?

On every Intrepid trip that includes the Inca Trail, you can always opt out of the hike.

Simply pick whichever Peru trip you’re keen on and specify while booking that you’d prefer the train option. There is no extra cost for this, though please note that fees may apply if you decide to change to the train option after your Inca Trail permit has already been purchased. In the time that your group mates are hiking, you will have more time in Cusco to relax and get to know this unique city better, and to explore the Inca relics strewn throughout the Sacred Valley.

Watch Team See Possibilities conquer the Inca Trail

When blind athlete Dan Berlin and his three guides decided to run the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu in a single day, many people told them it would be impossible. But with the assistance of Intrepid Travel, Dan Berlin made it to the Sun Gate just before the cut-off time to carry on to Machu Picchu, and finished their astonishing achievement in 13 hours. Dan Berlin became the first ever blind athlete to complete the entire 26 miles of the Inca Trail in a single day.

Responsible trekking

Intrepid Travel is absolutely committed to ensuring the environmental sustainability of the amazing destinations we visit and we take our social responsibilities very seriously. In Peru , we have committed to paying our porters and guides a fair wage and supplying them with the necessary equipment and resources to undertake their work safely. We also support several community initiatives aimed at promoting the long-term sustainability of the region's environment and preserving the traditional cultures of its communities. 

Read more about the Inca Trail 

The Ultimate Hiking Adventure to a Legendary Lost City

• Inca Trail to Machu Picchu

From $5,995

Call 1-800-368-2794 or contact us for any questions

Hike the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu the WT way, with spectacular campsites (two of the four are exclusive to our groups), topped off by a night at the acclaimed Sanctuary Lodge, just steps from Machu Picchu. With five full days on the trail (other companies rush it in four), we enjoy well-paced hiking days, fewer trekkers, and fascinating Inca sites others miss. Superb Trip Leaders bring the Inca world to life for us, and our top-notch trail crew keeps us well fed. We've perfected this experience over 40+ years!

Arrive: Cusco, Peru

Depart: Cusco, Peru

• Hike to Machu Picchu on mystical, stone-paved paths built by the Incas
• Explore trail-side archaeological sites that only Inca Trail hikers have access to
• Relish the comfort of our famous Inca Trail camping service—the best on the trail!
• Superb accommodations at Machu Picchu Sanctuary Lodge, right at the ruins, and at Cusco's 5-star Hotel Monasterio

In Cusco, we begin to understand the power of the Incas as we explore Saqsayhuaman, the grand fortress overlooking the city. In the Incas' Sacred Valley, we climb up through the terraces of the monumental citadel at Pisac to see its intricate stonework.

We explore Ollantaytambo, where the rebel Manco Inca held off Pizarro and his men in 1536, then begin our hike to Machu Picchu. Our special five-day route brings you shorter hiking days, optimum altitude acclimatization, and more time to explore hidden sites along the way. On the first two nights, we stay at our own private campsites with full amenities—one even has a sauna! Our trail cuisine is unmatched, and our well-paced hiking days give you plenty of time to see the fascinating archaeological sites along the route.

Phuyupatamarka ("Town in the Clouds") and elegant Wiñay Wayna ("Forever Young") are the last major Inca sites on our trail. Hiking up to Intipunku, the "Gate of the Sun," the original entrance to Machu Picchu, the dazzling lost city is revealed below us and we are joined by our Machu Picchu specialist guide. We also have the option to hike up Huayna Picchu, the striking peak above the ruins. Our stay at the Machu Picchu Sanctuary Lodge, the only hotel right at the ruins, allows us unparalleled access and a fantastic sunset view. Return to Cusco on Day 8 and depart on Day 9.

Dates & Pricing

Pricing below is per person and based on double occupancy. The earlier you book, the more choice you’ll have. WT also has the most generous cancellation and transfer policies in the industry, we make it easy if you change your mind. Have a small group of your own? Take over an existing date or choose your own. You’ll have your own private guide–and the adventure–all to yourselves!

Payment & Cancel Schedule

$600 due at time of reservation 90 days prior to departure: Balance

Cancellation & Transfer Schedule

Minimum fee (Inca Trail permit fee): $110 per person 61-90 days prior to departure: 25% of trip cost 46-60 days prior to departure: 50% of trip cost 45 days or less: 100% of trip cost

Please note that this differs from our standard policy.

• Expert leadership of a Wilderness Travel Trip Leader and local guides
• Accommodations in hotels and full-service camping
• All meals included except 1 lunch and 1 dinner as indicated in Detailed Itinerary
• Group camping and cooking equipment and staff
• All ground transportation and baggage handling from meeting until departure
• All activities as indicated in Detailed Itinerary
• Loan of sleeping bag, pad, and duffel bag on trek

Not Included

• Travel to and from the arrival and departure location as indicated in Detailed Itinerary
• Additional hotel nights outside the trip's scheduled dates
• Optional gratuities to Trip Leaders or staff
• Optional travel insurance
• Other expenses of a personal nature (some alcoholic beverages, laundry, etc.)

Accommodations

Scroll through our signature accommodations for this trip below. Although it is highly unlikely, we may make substitutions when necessary.

Hotel Monasterio

Cusco, Peru

Day 1 (1 night)

Hotel Pakaritampu

Ollantaytambo, Peru

Day 2 (1 night)

Private Camp at Kilometer 82

Chilca, Peru

Day 3 (1 night)

Inca Trail Trek Camps

Inca Trail, Peru

Days 4-6 (3 nights)

Machu Picchu Sanctuary Lodge

Machu Picchu Ruins, Peru

Day 7 (1 night)

Day 8 (1 night)

Trip Leaders

Wilderness Travel Trip Leaders have a passion and a joy for creating an unforgettable journey. We are extremely proud of them and the incredible travel experiences they make possible. For more information, including client comments about them and which specific trips they will be leading, please click on their profiles below.

Jhon Elguera

Miguel Pacsi

Holly Wissler

What the Trip is Like

This trip is rated Level 5, Strenuous, according to our trip grading system. Most hiking is between 8,000 and 13,000 feet. The maximum elevation we reach is 13,830 feet, and the highest place we camp is 12,180 feet. The total mileage hiked is about 30. Our group will spread out along the trail during about six to seven hours of hiking each day (shorter on some days).

The Inca Trail is mostly stone-paved (Inca stones!) and it undulates up and down across green mountains while crossing two high-altitude passes. Trails can be rugged, not the well-maintained trails you may be accustomed to in the United States. For the most part, you can hike at your own speed because we always have a staff member hiking in the lead as well as one behind with the slowest hiker in our group. The altitudes are high, but our first hotel night is in Cusco at 11,200 feet, our second overnight is in the Sacred Valley of the Incas at 9,500 feet, our third is at our first camp at 8,700 feet, and our fourth is at our second camp at 8,900 feet. These four days will help your altitude acclimatization before climbing the first pass.

Any fit, experienced hiker will enjoy this hike, but we recommend you make an extra effort to prepare by engaging in regular exercise well beyond your normal routine. To accelerate your conditioning, try walking faster than 1.5 miles per hour, walking on steeper inclines, using your gym’s stair-climbing machines, or going on long hikes (also a good way to break in your boots). Please be aware that there are a few sections of long, steep stone “staircases,” so we do suggest hiking poles to protect your knees. The trek takes place at altitudes between 8,700 feet and 13,830 feet.

Being so close to the equator, Peru has only two climate seasons: a dry season from April to October, and a wet season from December to March. Altitude is the main factor controlling the climate. In the mountains, you'll encounter sunny days with daytime temperatures ranging between 65°F and 70°F, dropping to the 40s and lower at night. The sun is very strong at high altitude and it can often be warm enough to hike in shorts and a t-shirt. However, it can also get extremely cold; if you're familiar with mountain weather, you know how suddenly it can get cold even in the daytime if the sun slips behind a cloud. Nighttime temperatures can drop to below freezing. Rain should not be a problem on our treks, but always keep in mind that mountain weather is unpredictable and sudden storms can occur, especially on high mountain passes.

Lima lies in a coastal desert where rainfall is rare and temperatures are usually warm (70s and 80s). Days are overcast most of the year due to the Humboldt current that comes up from Antarctica and meets the warm, tropical El Niño current from the north to create the garua, or coastal fog/mist.

The climate in the Amazon Basin is generally warm and humid throughout the year but can also be unexpectedly cool (usually 60s) due to the breezes that blow down from the Andes.

A Typical Trekking Day

Hiking distances on trek are normally measured in hours, not miles, since maps aren't really accurate enough to assess how far we walk up and down on winding mountain trails. With rest stops and photo stops, few people walk faster than one mile an hour in a mountainous region. Some hiking days are shorter than others, and some days are more difficult than others due to altitude gain and loss.

On a typical trek day, you'll wake up to hot coffee, cocoa, and a choice of teas, brought right to your tent. This is followed by a freshly prepared breakfast of eggs, pancakes, French toast, or oatmeal. We set off on the trail while the crew strikes camp and the porters shoulder their loads. There is always a guide in the lead, usually the Trip Leader or the camp manager, who supervises the crew, and someone who hikes behind the slowest hiker. Most of our hikers tend to spread out over the trail, taking photos, stopping to rest, and enjoying the scenery. We typically walk for three or four hours in the morning, depending on the day, then stop for a leisurely lunch at a scenic spot. Lunches consist of a wide variety of dishes, including delicious pasta salads, soup, casseroles, and other offerings. After lunch, we walk for another three hours or so until we reach our next night's camp. The porters and crew pass us in mid-afternoon and set up our next camp. When we arrive at camp, snacks are available, including popcorn, cookies, crackers, and hot or cold drinks. Dinner begins with hearty soup followed by an entrée of fish, beef, or chicken (with vegetarian options), along with vegetable dishes, fruit, and a light dessert.

Extend Your Trip

Arequipa and Colca Canyon Extension

From $1,450

Amazon Rainforest Extension: Reserva Amazonica

When is the Best Time to Go?

The Inca Trail can be hiked all year except in late January and February, the rainiest months, when the trail is closed for repairs. The trail reopens in March and April, when the rains lighten up and the mountains are still green. High season begins in May and extends through September, as these are the driest months. October through December are considered shoulder season, when occasional rain is possible, but keep in mind that the highlands of Peru are a temperate desert and it is not uncommon for it not to rain for weeks at a time even in the height of the rainy season. This is also the time with the fewest hikers on the trail, more flowers in bloom, and fewer tourists at Machu Picchu as well as in Cusco. Temperatures in the Cusco-Machu Picchu region range from the high 60s in the daytime to the low 40s at night, with some variation depending on the time of year you go.

Best Time to Hike the Inca Trail

Why Do You Need to Book So Early?

To protect the Inca Trail's monuments and environment, Peruvian authorities only issue 200 permits each day for hikers (plus an additional 300 permits for the licensed porters and staff who carry the gear and work on the trips). Permits sell out extremely fast! We must obtain your permit for you when you sign up, so we urge you to book your trip at least six months in advance, especially if you are considering going between May and September.

Why Should I Hike the Inca Trail with WT?

• We are experts on the Inca Trail with over 40 years of experience.
• A perfectly paced itinerary , with five full trekking days (most companies push it with just four days on the trail—and some even three). This allows for a better pace, fewer crowds, and more sites and exploration along the way.
• Exceptional camps with the finest equipment, delicious meals, and hot coffee, cocoa, or tea brought to your tent each morning. The first two nights are inprivate campsites completely to ourselves!
• The most qualified guides—experts in Inca history and culture.
• Overnight at the Machu Picchu Sanctuary Lodge, the only hotel just steps away from the ruins, giving you access to Machu Picchu without the crowds.

Other Trips You Might Like

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Hiker’s Journey to Machu Picchu

From $6,195

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Inca Trail Private Journey

From $5,695

Treasures of the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu

From $6,695

Trekking the Cordillera Blanca

From $4,995

Book your trip today

Our Area Specialists know every detail about our tours. They will be happy to answer any questions and help you choose the journey that’s right for you. Contact us to learn more or book your trip today!

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Trip Levels

With more than 200 different adventures to choose from, we want to help you find the trip that’s right for you. Our Trip Level system ranks each trip in two ways: a number rating from 1 to 6 according to the activity, and general travel rigors. 1 is the easiest and 6+ the most difficult—see descriptions below for explanations of each number. A plus (+) sign means the trip is a bit more strenuous than other trips of that level. The detailed explanation of each trip—below the bar with the number rating—is perhaps more important, specifying activities, altitudes, hiking, and travel conditions. The Detailed Itinerary, available by download or mail, gives further information. Our Area Managers can also answer questions and guide you to the trip that best suits your interests.

Level 1 – Easiest

Non-camping journeys, optional walks, little elevation gain or loss.

• Royal Rajasthan and Villages of India
• Small ship cruises

Level 2 – Easy to Moderate

Hotel nights and/or safari-style camping, hikes of two to four hours on some days. Other physical activities are sometimes included, such as optional sea kayaking.

• Our African safaris
• Costa Rica Wildlife

Level 3 – Moderate

Half- to full-day hikes (3-6 hours) over rolling countryside on most days, occasional steep trails. Many of our hotel-based walking tours are in this category, as are our snorkeling adventures.

• Tuscany & the Cinque Terre
• Argentina: Hikes and Estancias of Patagonia
• Palau Snorkeling & Sea Kayaking
• Some trips with minimal hiking but rugged travel conditions or long drives, such as  Tribal Ghana, Togo & Benin,  are Trip Level 3.

Level 4 – Moderate to Strenuous

Full-day hikes (4-6 hours), mountainous terrain, significant elevation gains and losses (hiking up or down as much as 3,000 feet) on many days. Altitudes no greater than about 10,000 feet.

• Ultimate Patagonia
• Hiking the Spanish Pyrenees

Level 5 – Strenuous

Full-day hikes (4-8 hours), mountainous, steep terrain (hiking up or down as much as 3,500 feet) on many days. Trips with hiking at average altitudes of 10,000 to 12,000 feet are in this category.

• Everest Lodge to Lodge

Level 6 – Very Strenuous

Full-day hikes (5-8 hours), mountainous, steep terrain (hiking up or down as much as 3,500 feet) on many days. Most hikes take place at altitudes above 10,000 feet, with some days ascending as high as 18,000 feet.

• Everest Base Camp
• Climb Kilimanjaro!

TREK THE INCA TRAIL TO MACHU PICCHU

On an experience you’ll never forget, making happy trekkers since 2005.

Established in 2005, we connect adventure seekers with trusted and experienced tour operators on the Inca Trail, Salkantay, Lares, Inca Jungle, and other amazing treks in the Cuzco region.

• Most Popular
• User 12+ years
• Hour Glass 4 days, 3 nights

Inca Trail to Machu Picchu

A spectacular and rich experience in the Andean mountains awaits you on this four-day trek along the Inca Trail.

• Hour Glass 5 days, 4 nights

Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu

Discover a different side of the Andes and get the most amazing views of the mountains!

• Hour Glass 3 days, 2 nights

Inca Jungle Backpacker Trek to Machu Picchu

Immerse yourself in the Andean jungle!  This is an amazing backpacker Jungle Adventure! Get some adrenaline through this

Why hike to Machu Picchu with Peru Inca Trail?

We work with the best award-winning operators for each Inca Trail trek! You will be able to find the budget that fits your needs ranging from budget backpacker options to higher end products. The treks are designed to help you challenge yourself and experience the Andean mountain like no other.

What makes us so special? EVERYTHING!

We work with the best operators offering 100% sustainable experiences dedicated to a leave-no-trace philosophy with the best equipment and top safety standards. We are committed to offering local experiences that benefit the community, employing the top guides in the region and amazing chefs for the best food.

TOP REVIEWS ON TRIPADVISOR! ★★★★★

Had an amazing experience through the Incan trail. At first I had some difficulties due to some lack of preparation and inexperience with camping, but my guide Junior helped me throughout. The porters and chef also helped a lot in moving through the jungle. I couldn’t have had this amazing experience without all their help!

My wife and I were with our guide Vidal and Juan on the Inca Trail in early January. We had a great time. The history is very interesting and the scenery is amazing. It was our first time in the Andes and we thoroughly enjoyed it. It was a great time hiking through such wonderful creation. We were there in rainy season, but had nice weather for the most part. The guides Vidal and Juan were very knowledgeable and helpful, and our cook Benny served great meals.Highly recommended.

Special thanks to our wonderful guides Vidal and Juan and chef Benny and porters who took great care of us during the whole trip. The hike was challenging but I had an amazing and unforgettable time taking in all the sights and sounds! Highly recommend!

My wife and I completed the 4 days classic Inca Trail and have to say that it was one of the most fantastically memorable experiences of our lives! The climb up to Machu Picchu was definitely challenging but very rewarding. The Bamba team took very good care of us and operated in a professional manner.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Permits on the trek.

• Chevron down Do I need a permit to trek the Inca Trail?

Yes, everyone needs a permit, and our treks already include the permit for you, so you don’t need to worry about this anymore.

• Chevron down Why should I book as soon as possible?

There are only 500 permits available daily on the Inca Trail for trekkers, porters and guides and they sell out very quickly! Although sometimes permits are available within a few months of your travel date, it’s best to book at least 6 months in advance, especially when traveling during high season from May to September.

• Chevron down How do you secure my permit?

Once you book an Inca Trail trek with us, the permit is secured immediately. Our Cuzco team is ready and available to book and collect the permits before your trek starts.

• Chevron down Can I get my own Inca Trail Permit?

No, individuals may not purchase permits. Only licensed tour operators have access to purchasing permits. Any company that wishes to become a licenced operator must pass a rigorous annual application and inspection required by the Peruvian government.

• Chevron down What do I need to provide to get my permit?

The first step is booking your trip with us. Then you must provide your current passport information exactly as it appears in your document (this should be the same passport with which you will be travelling). If you acquire a new passport between your booking date and travel date, you must bring a copy of the old passport in order to enter the Inca Trail Trek. As per Peruvian governmental requirements, permits are unchangeable and non-transferable meaning the dates cannot be changed and the name cannot be transferred to anyone else.

Before your Inca Trail

• Chevron down Where is the Inca Trail?

The Inca Trail starts from Cuzco, Peru. From here you will take a transfer to the start of the trek which is 1.5 hours away by car. From there, you will walk 4 days to reach the sun gate which is the entrance to the majestic site of Machu Picchu.

• Chevron down Can I do the Inca Trail without a guide?

No, in order to the Inca Trail you will need to travel with a licensed tour operator which will include guides, porters, chefs and everything you need to go on your Inca Trail.

• Chevron down Is the Inca Trail worth it?

Yes, the Inca Trail is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to walk through the footsteps of the Inca people through a commercial trade route that reached Machu Picchu. It’s a challenging 42-kilometer hike, but with a good attitude and commitment it’s doable for almost everyone with a good physical condition.

• Chevron down Which Inca Trail tour is the best?

There is only one Inca Trail trek to Machu Picchu at the moment, but when the Inca Trail permits are not available, there are several incredible alternative treks such as the Salkantay Trek, Inca Jungle Trek, Lares Trek, and the Jungle Trek to Machu Picchu that don’t follow the Inca Trail.  Depending on what you are looking for, there are different options that would be a great fit for your trekking preferences. Here are the main characteristics:

Inca Trail: Follow the footsteps of the Inca people, with amazing landscapes, and arrive to Machu Picchu through the sun gate at sunrise. You will camp for 3 nights. Salkantay Trek: Possibly the hardest of the treks, with the most amazing views of the Andean mountains, glaciers, ending in Machu Picchu. Depending on the operator you might sleep 1 night in Andean Huts, 2 nights in Eco-domes and 1 night in a Hotel. Other options offer 3 nights camping and 1 in a hotel in Aguascalientes.

Lares Trek: Amazing views of the mountains, passing through local villages to admire the local way of life, ending in Machu Picchu. You will camp for 2 nights and sleep 1 night in a hotel in Aguascalientes.

Inca Jungle Trek: Mountain Biking, Rafting, low altitude Jungle Hike, Zip-line and Machu Picchu all in one amazing 4-day trek.  This is great for adrenaline junkies and for an easier trekking option. You will sleep in basic hotels along the way.

Inca Quarry Trek: One of the newest additions to the alternative treks, going off the beaten path, passing through amazing scenery and ending in Machu Picchu.  You will camp for 3 nights.

• Chevron down How long is the Inca Trail?

The Inca Trail is 42 kilometers in total. The Inca Trail is considered to be a moderate hike, there are lots of staircases to climb, and the highest altitude you will reach on the trek is 4,200 meters. Altitude can affect the body by causing dizziness and shortness of breath. We recommend that you hike with a walking stick to reduce stress on the knees.

• Chevron down How many hours will I hike a day?

It depends on the trek that you choose as there are many different options. If you take the 4D Inca Trail you will hike around 6 to 9 hours per day for the first three days and about two hours on your final day arriving to Machu Picchu through the Inca Trail sun gate. If you do the 2D Inca Trail you will hike around 6 to 8 hours on day 1, and then won’t hike much on day 2. The Lares and Salkantay trek to Machu Picchu you will hike for around 6 to 8 hours per day, with around 10 hours on the second day. For the Inca Jungle, you will not hike much on day 1, then hike around 8 hours on day 2, and if you decide to do the Zip-line adventure on day 3 you will hike around 3 hours, otherwise around 6 hours. If you go on the Choquequirao Inca Trail you will be trekking around 5-8 hours per day. It’s very important that you pack comfortable hiking boots, as on average on the hikes you will be hiking are around 6 to 9 hours per day.

• Chevron down How high is the Inca trail?

You will start the hike at 2,800 meters (9,188 ft). The highest point is the Dead Woman’s pass and it will reach 4,200 meters (17,785ft). The highest altitude at which you will sleep is 3,600 meters (11,820 ft) for at least one of the nights.

• Chevron down How likely is it to get altitude sickness?

Each person adapts differently to the altitude, so it’s very difficult to predict how you will do with it. Most of our hikers have no problem, as long as you take the time to acclimatize properly. We recommend spending at least one full day, if not two days in Cuzco at 3,250 meters (10,660 ft) and drinking lots of water every day. A lot of Cuzco locals drink coca tea, and or chew coca leaves in order to help with the altitude and say that it works wonders.

• Chevron down When is the high season on the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu?

May to September is considered to be the highest season for the Inca Trail and you often need to pre-book a permit 6-8 months in advance. The Inca Trail is closed during February for restoration. The low season coincides with the rainy season in Cuzco which starts in October and ends in March. If a permit for the Inca Trail is not available, a great option is to book an alternative trek. Many people enjoy the alternative treks as much or more than the Inca Trail.

• Chevron down How is the weather on the Inca Trail?

The best months to do the Inca Trail are from May to September when the conditions are fairly dry and the weather generally sunny. However the months of June, July and August can also be very cold at night so it’s important to bring or rent a good quality 4 season sleeping bag. The temperature can drop below zero at night, and during the day it can change a lot during the day. It’s important to come well prepared for the weather, so you don’t suffer from the cold weather.

• Chevron down What is the best clothing for trekking the Inca Trail?

We always recommend to use many layers of quick-dry materials such as wool or synthetic materials to keep yourself dry and warm. Bring a waterproof jacket or rain poncho to keep yourself dry. Having all the different layers will help you with the Pachamama’s (mother nature’s) sudden changes in weather.

• Chevron down What is the suggested packing list for the Inca Trail?

Bring or Rent in Cuzco: hiking poles, rain pants, rain poncho, trekking boots, sandals, warm socks, sweaters, thermals, hat, gloves, sun hat, sun block, sun glasses, flashlight/torch, camera, extra batteries and memory card (there is limited to no electricity available during the trek), waterproof bags for your camera, hand sanitizer, personal first aid kit, water bottle. Bring extra cash for snacks, water, gatorade which doubles or triples in price along the trail.

During your Inca Trail

• Chevron down How much time do we spend in Machu Picchu site, on the Inca Trail?

You are likely to arrive to Machu Picchu at around 6:00 am and you will have plenty of time to immerse yourself into the amazing archaeological site. You will have a two-hour guided tour of the site, and then time to explore on your own, take some unforgettable photos and relax in the site until around noon. After that time due to Machu Picchu regulations we will need to exit the site, as there are more people coming in for the afternoon, and there is a limit on the amount of people that can come in each day.

• Chevron down How do we get back to Cuzco from Machu Picchu?

After you enjoy your time by the majestic Machu Picchu, you will travel by bus to Aguascalientes town (30 minutes) where you will relax, have some lunch, and then take a beautiful train ride (1.5 hours) to Ollantaytambo (Sacred Valley). Here you will take a bus transfer back to Cuzco (1.5 hours).

• Chevron down Do porters carry our luggage on the Inca Trail?

Depending on the trek you purchased, the porters may or may not carry up to 5 kilograms of your personal items. If this is not included in your trek, you may book it locally at an additional cost. For this we provide you with a duffel bag to place 5 kg of your personal items and sleeping bag. Our hard-working porters will carry this duffel bag for you during the Inca Trail, so you only need to carry a small backpack for your water, camera, sunscreen and snacks. Your large backpack or suitcase can be stored safely in the luggage room at your hotel in Cuzco or in our office.

• Chevron down What type of camping accommodation can I expect on the Inca Trail?

Most operators use durable three person tents to sleep two people, so it’s more spacious and comfortable. There are very few places on the trail where there are very rustic toilets, but the Inca Trail operator will set-up portable toilet tents for travelers.

• Chevron down What type of food will we get on the Inca Trail?

You will be surprised by the delicious food that our cooks prepare for your trekking days. The menu usually includes pasta or rice, chicken, fresh fruit and veggies, eggs and oatmeal. Our operators are happy to cater for any dietary restrictions and allergies that you might have, so just let us know when you book your trip and we will make sure to make it happen.

• Chevron down Is clean water available on the Inca trail?

We strongly recommend bringing a refillable aluminum water bottle, as boiled water will be provided with every meal. Bottled water can be purchased on day one of the trek, and in some parts along the trail, but we highly discourage this due to the waste it creates. You can also buy a new technology bottle that filters and cleans any water that you put it.

• Chevron down Can I bring my own walking sticks?

Yes, no problems at all. You can also rent walking sticks in Cuzco at around $10-15 USD for the entire trek. We highly recommend getting one to put less stress on your knees, and to keep your balance.

Porters and Guides on Inca Trail

• Chevron down What is the max weight each porter can carry?

All Inca Trail porters are limited by governmental regulations to carry a maximum of 20kg on the treks. Our operators always make sure that no porter is carrying more than this. They carry all the camping equipment, food and all the necessary equipment for the camp.

• Chevron down Where do porters sleep?

The porters sleep in tents and are provided with sleeping bags and foam mattresses. In some of the hikes there are dedicated sleeping places for the porters, and we pay all the necessary fees for them to use these locations.

• Chevron down Do the porters eat with the hikers?

The porters usually hike much faster than the rest of the group and they have very different food requirements, therefore they eat at different times of the day. We usually provide larger meal portions and meals with lots of carbs so they can have more energy due to their needs.

• Chevron down Do we provide training for porters?

Our local operators provide full training sessions every year for the porters before the trekking season starts in March to clear any doubts that they might have. Porters usually work on their own as third-party contractors and have a lot of prior experience working in high-altitude mountainous regions throughout the Andes. Many were born in remote Andean villages and have lived at high altitudes their entire lives.

• Chevron down How do we ensure the health and safety of the porters?

Porters and guides are the most important part of the Inca Trail Experience. Our local partners provide them with the necessary equipment to ensure they are safe and comfortable on the hike. We provide them with proper clothing and equipment including a warm coat and rain jacket, rain poncho, a back support, sun hat, footwear and a head lamp. Our operators constantly check the equipment to make sure they are in good conditions. We also provide health insurance for all of them, and make sure to immediately respond to any medical emergencies or incidences involving porters on the Inca Trail.

• Chevron down Should I tip the guides and porters?

Ultimately, the decision to tip your porters in up to you. In Latin America and specifically on the hikes, it is customary to give a tip at the end of the hike to thank the porters for their hard work. We find that trekkers are usually very appreciative of their porters and are happy to prepare a short ceremony at the end of the trek to thank them in person and give them a tip. We usually suggest that your trekking group gathers a collective fund to tip the team of porters between 6-8 dollars a day per person. So to plan in advance, you may wish to calculate around $24-$40 USD for tipping the porters at the end of the hike.

The Classic Inca Trail Hike to Machu Picchu is one of South America's most popular trekking routes and is consistently ranked among the 10 best hikes in the world . During this 4-day adventure, you will encounter a perfect combination of history and natural beauty. Visit ancient Inca sites and reach the Sun Gate (Intipunku) before sunrise to get the best view of Machu Picchu . 

TreXperience organizes premium Inca Trail tours with personal porters , buffet meals, and the Panoramic Vistadome train included. We have small group tour departures every day.

• Full Itinerary
• Packing List
• Travel Info

Inca Trail Hike 4 days 3 nights – Classic Tour

Go out of your comfort zone and explore the iconic Inca Trail hike ; enjoy the natural wonders, visit the ancient Inca sites, interact with our local porters, and experience the best of Peruvian food while you meet new friends and arrive in Machu Picchu through the mountains .

Hiking the  Inca Trail with TreXperience is discovering a new hiking and camping experience where simplicity becomes the experience of a lifetime. Come and join our fun small group tours to Machu Picchu with like-minded trekkers from all over the world, different ages, and genders. It’s perfect for solo travelers, couples, or groups of friends looking for inspiring and life-changing trekking experiences.

Tour Highlights:

• Travel with the best Inca Trail Tour Operator.
• Stay in the best and least crowded campsites.
• Personal porter included for 7 kg (15 lb) of your gear.
• Arrive at the Inca sites at exclusive hours.
• Enjoy the panoramic trains on your return ( Vistadome or 360 train ) .

Tip: Book your tour early because this once-in-a-lifetime experience has limited spots. Once it's sold out, we are unable to accommodate additional travelers.

Inca Trail Hike at a Glance

Day 1: training day.

Cusco — Km 82 — Patallacta — Ayapata (14km, 6hrs).-  Depart your hotel around 4:30 a.m. and drive to Km 82 to start the Inca Trail hike to Machu Picchu . The first campsite is 3,300m (10,826ft). We spend the night in comfortable tents.

Day 2: The Challenge

Ayapata — Warmiwañuska — Chaquicocha (16km, 10 hrs).-  The most challenging and longest day of the Trek . You'll pass through 2 mountains in 10 hours of hiking: the  Dead Woman’s Pass , the highest point of the Inca Trail hike  at 4,215m (13,829ft), and the  Runkuraqay Pass at 4,000 m (13,123ft).

Day 3: The easy day

Chaquicocha — Phuyupatamarca — Wiñaywayna (10km, 6hrs).-  One of the most beautiful and relaxing days. Today, you will only hike 6 hours through different ecological zones and visit the fascinating archaeological sites of Phuyupatamarca, Intipata, and Wiñaywayna (campsite) at 2,600m (8,530ft), just 2 hours from Machu Picchu .

Day 4: Discover Machu Picchu

Wiñaywayna — Machu Picchu — Cusco (6km, 2 hrs).-  Wake up early to hike for 2 hours to Machu Picchu through the Sun Gate  and enjoy your first stunning views of Machu Picchu. After exploring Machu Picchu, you will take the Panoramic Vistadome train and bus back to Cusco. Arrive at your hotel around 7:30 p.m.

Campsite locations might change depending on availability and the final campsite assignment.

• Safety briefing the day before the tour
• Complimentary luggage storage
• Hotel pickup and drop off
• Return on the panoramic Vistadome Train or 360°
• Bus from Machu Picchu to Aguas Calientes
• Entry tickets to the Inca Trail and Machu Picchu
• All camping equipment (carried by the porters)
• Personal Porter to carry up to 7kg / 15lb
• Experienced chef
• 3-night camping in top-end, comfortable tents
• Eureka 4-person tents for every 2 trekkers
• All meals are prepared with fresh local ingredients
• Drinkable water and daily snacks
• First-aid kit, satellite phones, oxygen supply
• Private portable toilets
• All taxes and booking fees

Not Included:

• Sleeping bag, air mattress, or trekking poles (you can rent them from us)
• Last day lunch after the Machu Picchu Tour
• Entry to   Huayna Picchu Mountain   (optional)
• Travel Insurance

Why book with TreXperience?

Locally Owned Company: Founded by Juan and Priscila Coronel from Ollantaytambo, TreXperience is 100% locally owned in Cusco, Peru. This reflects a deep commitment to the community and offers an authentic insight into the Inca Trail experience.

Food on the Inca Trail: The food during the trek stands for its quality and variety, prepared by chefs trained to offer unique and delicious meals that are healthy and reflective of local cuisine. Our chefs use fresh local products to provide the best Peruvian food, accommodating vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free diets.

High-Quality Equipment: Trekkers are provided with top-quality camping equipment, including kitchen tents, dining tents, toilet tents, tables, chairs, and Eureka tents, to ensure comfort and safety throughout the journey.

Transportation: We offer a stress-free experience for trekkers by managing all aspects of the journey. Our door-to-door service ensures a seamless experience from hotel to hotel.

Trains from Machu Picchu: The journey back from Machu Picchu is enhanced with additional amenities such as Pisco Sours and a scenic train ride. We are the only company that provides panoramic trains for the return trip.

Spiritual and Cultural Immersion: The journey with TreXperience is not just a trek but a profound exploration of the rich history, culture, and spirituality of the Incan civilization, including visits to significant archaeological sites.

Sustainable Practices: TreXperience is distinguished by its sustainable and responsible tourism practices, aiming to minimize environmental impact while maximizing positive contributions to local communities.

Safety and Security: All staff are trained in First Aid and Mountain Rescue. We provide an oxygen tank , a first aid kit , and satellite phones for added safety.

Commitment to Excellence: TreXperience's reputation for excellence is reflected in its numerous awards and recognitions, underscoring its commitment to providing an unparalleled trekking experience. We have more than 7000 positive reviews.

Our Porters: TreXperience sets a high standard for porter welfare on the Inca Trail, ensuring fair wages, health insurance, and quality gear for all porters.

Book with Confidence and Flexibility: We allow travelers to change their tours without penalty under certain conditions, offering peace of mind in uncertain times.

Full Itinerary of the 4-Day Inca Trail to Machu Picchu 

Day 1: cusco — km 82 — hatunchaca — ayapata.

Start your Inca Trail trekking experience with a pick from your hotel in Cusco around 4:30 a.m. If you stay in the Sacred Valley, like Urubamba or Ollantaytambo, we'll pick you up a bit later, after 6:00 a.m. We'll then travel for about 2.5 hours to Km 82 (Piscacucho village) , the starting point of this epic 4-day Inca Trail Trip to Machu Picchu. But first, we'll stop at Ollantaytambo to enjoy a delicious breakfast and have the opportunity to buy any last-minute things for the Machu Picchu trek.

We’ll arrive at the Km 82 trailhead by 8:00 a.m., where you'll meet our incredible team of chefs, porters, and tour guides. After a quick checkpoint stop to show your passports, we're ready to kick off our TreXperience to the Legendary Lost City of the Incas .

The first leg of the Inca Trail Trek is an easy 2-hour hike to Patallacta, an ancient site along the Inca Trail route . You will enjoy beautiful views of this site surrounded by mountains and rivers from a unique, hidden location. Then, it will be a 2-hour hike to Hatunchaca village, where our team of cooks will treat you to a delicious lunch made of fresh local ingredients.

After a delightful meal, we will continue for another 2 hours to Ayapata, the first campsite of the trek, by around 5:00 p.m. You will find your tent, a snack, and a hot drink waiting for you. Before tea time and dinner, there's plenty of time to relax, prepare your bed, and take in the breathtaking mountain scenery.

• Hiking Distance: 14 km / 8.7 mi
• Duration: 6 Hours
• Campsite Altitude: 3,300 m / 10,826 ft
• Highest Altitude: 3,300 m / 10,826 ft
• Meals: Breakfast, snacks, lunch, tea time, dinner
• Difficulty: Moderate

Day 2: Ayapata — Dead Woman’s Pass — Chaquicocha

Today's the most challenging of the 4-day hike to Machu Picchu ! We'll start early, bringing you a warm cup of coffee or coca tea right in your tent. After breakfast, we're off for a 4-hour climb to Dead Woman’s Pass (4,215m / 13,829ft), the highest point of the Trek . At the summit, we'll stop to appreciate the serenity of this magical place, enjoying its calm with a coca tea. At the same time, your guide completes a traditional offering ceremony to mountain spirits, the Apus. Reveling in the stunning views, we'll then descend for 2 hours to Pacaymayo Alto Valley for a much-deserved lunch.

After lunch, the second mountain is an easier 2-hour hike to Runkuraqay Pass (4,000m / 13,123ft), exploring 2 Inca sites en route: Runkuraqay and Sayacmarca. The second campsite will be Chaquicocha (dry lake, 3600m / 11811 ft.), where you can admire a beautiful sunset over the Vilcabamba mountain range before dinner. As night falls, this spot offers a clear, unobstructed sky view, perfect for stargazing and marveling at the constellations.

• Hiking Distance: 16 km / 10 mi
• Duration: 10 Hours
• Campsite Altitude: 3,600 m / 11,811 ft
• Highest Altitude: 4,215 m / 13,829 ft
• Difficulty: Challenging

Day 3: Chaquicocha — Intipata — Wiñaywayna

With the hard part of the 4-day Inca Trail tour well and truly over, you can relax and enjoy the most leisurely and exciting day of the Inca Trail Hike. Today’s route is extremely varied; it is only a 5-hour hike to the final campsite. Along the way, you will pass through several different ecosystems, experience the atmospheric cloud forest, and observe the magnificent panoramic view of Salkantay Mountain (the second-highest peak in Cusco). We will visit 2 Inca sites, Phuyupatamarca (City in the Clouds), with spectacular views of the Urubamba River, Machu Picchu Mountain , and Intipata (Terraces of the Sun).

At Intipata, you will have time to rest and take in the magical surroundings. We will reach the campsite at approximately 1:00 p.m. to have lunch, and then you can enjoy some free time to relax, unwind at the camp, chase llamas, or take a refreshing shower. Later in the afternoon, we will visit the Inca site of Wiñaywayna , where your guide will explain this fantastic location’s history. We will then return to the campsite for tea, dinner, and a special farewell surprise!

• Hiking Distance: 10 km / 6.2 mi
• Duration: 5 Hours
• Campsite Altitude: 2,600 m / 8,530 ft
• Highest Altitude: 3,600 m / 11,811 ft
• Meals: Breakfast, snack, lunch, tea time, dinner

Day 4: Discover Machu Picchu — Cusco

On our final day of the Classic Inca Trail Hike to Machu Picchu , you must get up very early to prepare for the highlight of your TreXperience ! Visiting Machu Picchu , the Lost City of the Incas. We will go straight to the checkpoint and wait until it opens at 5:30 a.m. As the sky brightens, we will walk to the Sun Gate (Intipunku) for one hour, enjoying the stunning views. You can watch the spectacular sunrise over Machu Picchu from the Sun Gate on a clear day, which is truly an unforgettable sight. Next, we will start a final 1-hour descent towards Machu Picchu, arriving at the last control point around 8:00 a.m.

Your guide will take you on a 2-hour comprehensive tour of the most important sights of the Inca City. If you're up for an extra challenge, you can hike  Huayna Picchu Mountain  (tickets must be booked as far in advance as possible). After the tour, you will take the bus from Machu Picchu to Aguas Calientes for lunch and then travel in the panoramic train ( Vistadome or 360° train ). TreXperience Team will meet you off the train and safely return to your hotel in Cusco or the Sacred Valley. The approximate arrival time back to Cusco is around 7:30 p.m.

• Hiking Distance: 6 km / 3.7 mi
• Hiking Duration: 2-3 Hours
• Highest Altitude: 2,720 m / 8,923 ft
• Meals: Breakfast, snacks
• Difficulty: Easy to Moderate

4-day Inca Trail Hike to Machu Picchu Packing List

What should I pack for the Inca Trail Hike to Machu Picchu? This is the most common question asked by Inca Trail hikers . When traveling to a new faraway destination like South America, you must prepare long before, especially when hiking to remote places like the Inca Trail or Salkantay Trek .

For your trip to Peru, you will bring one or two big pieces of luggage depending on how long you spend on your vacation. However, you will only take the necessary equipment for the 4-day Machu Picchu hike . You must leave most of your belongings in the Cusco hotel or TreXperience storerooms.

For the Inca Trail hike , you must reduce the gear you will take to a minimum. We recommend 5 kg (11 lb)  in your daypack and 7 kg (15 lb)  in your duffle bag . Remember that you are responsible for carrying your daypack at all times and must have all the necessary equipment for the day. Our porters will take the 7 kg duffle bag.

• Original passport:  A copy will not be accepted; your  passport must be valid for at least 6 months to enter and exit Peru. You'll also need to ensure that your passport has two blank pages for entry and exit stamps.
• Valid Student ID is required only if you have booked the Inca Trail as a student. Student cards must be issued by the university (up to the age of 25), and should the following details: university information, personal information, student photo , and a valid date no later than December 31 of the year of travel .
• Hiking boots (light, comfortable, and broken in). Make sure your shoes are not too tight or too loose. They should provide enough room for your toes to wiggle without being too spacious.
• A good quality daypack (light, small, and cozy); you will need a comfortable backpack to carry all your supplies.
• A camel bag or water bottle (s) for at least 2 liters of water storage. Choosing a water bottle that will keep your water cold is essential.
• Trekking poles (you can rent them from us) Trekking poles are highly recommended for the Inca Trail .

What to put in the Daypack?

Here's a list of items we recommend you keep in your backpack for your Machu Picchu Hike . Remember, you will be carrying this with you every day of the trek, so bring a good quality daypack that is light and comfortable.

It is important to note that, due to local regulations, your backpack should not exceed 25 liters. All larger bags can not be taken into Machu Picchu and must be stored in the lockers. The 25 liters is not about the capacity of your backpack; it is about the size. If you have larger bags, you can bring them and make sure your backpack looks small for Machu Picchu .  

• Hats and sunglasses are a must; the sun can be intense at high elevations, and you'll want to shield your eyes from the glare.
• Rain gear is essential, especially during the rainy season. Look for materials that keep you dry while allowing your skin to breathe, such as Gore-Tex or eVent.
• Warm layers (fleece or long-sleeved tops); a layering system, consisting of a base layer, mid-layer of fleece or down, and a waterproof shell layer, is needed for hiking the Inca Trail hike.
• Sun cream : Ensure you apply a high-factor sunscreen before heading out on the trail. Additionally, protect lips using lip balm with SPF protection!
• Bug spray : When selecting your bug spray, choose one containing DEET or picaridin to keep bugs at bay and allow you to enjoy your hike fully.
• Hand sanitizer:  Carrying a small bottle with you throughout the day would be ideal.
• Toilet paper : There are plenty of bathrooms along the Inca Trail; take toilet paper inside a plastic bag. 
• Personal medication includes  prescription and over-the-counter medicines for common ailments such as headaches, stomachaches, and colds. Take also band-aids and moleskin.
• Camera, extra batteries: Note that the battery life of your electronic devices will be reduced at high altitudes. So, pack plenty of spare batteries for your camera, phone, and other devices.
• Head Torch, or headlamp, is vital equipment for anyone embarking on the Machu Picchu Inca Trail.
• Snacks,  energy-pack granola bars, or trail mix that provide plenty of fuel without making you sluggish during a hike.
• Extra money  for souvenirs, drinks, and tips (small change helps pay for using the villagers' toilets on the first day).

What to put in the Duffle Bag

TreXperience will provide you with a duffel bag to pack items you do not need to keep during the day. Our Porters  will carry this bag for you throughout the trek. Please note that this bag should weigh a maximum of 7 kg (15 lb) , including your sleeping bag and air mattress (if you bring/rent one). These 2 items weigh about 3 kg (2 kg sleeping bag and 1 kg air pad).

During the safety briefing, duffle bags will be available at our office the day before the trek. 

• Sleeping bags  (can be rented from us): Buy a sleeping bag that fits your height and weight, and remember to pack it in a waterproof bag to stay dry on the trail. For the Inca Trail hike, we recommend sleeping bags rated at -10°C. 
• Air mattress  (can be rented from us); having an extra layer to sleep will make your hike more comfortable and enjoyable. We provide a foam mattress included on the Inca Trail tour.
• Shoes for the campsite. After long hours of hiking with boots, you may want to remove the heavy shoes and have something light to wear at the camp. 
• Warm jacket : Temperatures can drop sharply at night, and you can wear warm layers when the sun goes down. Don't forget to pack a hat and gloves!
• 4 or 5 T-shirts  (wicking T-shirts are best). A synthetic fabric like polyester or nylon is a good option, as it will wick away sweat and dry quickly. Avoid cotton shirts, as they will hold onto moisture and can cause chafing.
• 2-3 hiking pants/trousers: There are two main types of hiking pants. Cargo pants have large pockets on the sides of the legs, which are great for carrying extra gear. Convertible pants have legs that zip off at the knee, making them perfect for hot weather or changing conditions on the trail. Leggings work as well for ladies.
• 4 sets of undergarments , wearing a sports bra, and compression shorts will help keep you comfortable and prevent chafing.
• 4 sets of hiking socks , make sure the socks are made from a breathable material like wool or synthetic fibers. You don't want your feet to get too sweaty during the hike, which can lead to blisters.
• 1 Fleece : A fleece jacket or pullover is a good choice; you can layer it with other clothing if necessary. Be sure to pack a rain jacket as well, as the weather can be unpredictable on the trail.
• 1 Warm, down jacket for the coldest nights. The best jackets are made of down or synthetic insulation, keeping you warm even when wet. 
• Quick-dry towel : A quick-dry towel is a must-have for anyone planning to hike the Inca Trail. 
• Biodegradable soap is specially formulated to break down quickly and safely in nature, so it won't pollute the trail or harm any wildlife.
• Wet wipes : pack plenty of wet wipes! The trail can be dusty and dirty, so keeping your skin clean is essential. 
• Toothbrush and paste : Make sure the brush and paste are small and compact for camping trips. 
• Face moisturizer , the high altitude, and the harsh sun can take a toll on your skin, so it's essential to keep it hydrated. 
• Power bank/battery charger: You should use your phone in airplane mode and have power banks with you; we recommend one of  20,000 mAh.
• Plastic bags to keep wet or muddy clothes separate

See a complete guide on our blog:  Packing List for the Inca Trail

Price for the Classic Inca Trail Hike to Machu Picchu

Price per person:.

• From US$ 790 - Adults
• From US$ 750 - Children and students

To book the Classic Inca Trail hike to Machu Picchu, you need to make an initial payment of US$ 200 per person; the remaining balance can be paid online or at our office in Cusco.

Student Discount:

• US$ 40 off per person

All travelers under 17 will have a $40 discount. If you are 25 years old or under when traveling, you can get the discount with your  Student ID .  Please send us an email to receive a code for the discount.

Valid Student ID for Inca Trail and Machu Picchu

To get the student discount, travelers should have a Valid ID with the following:

• 25 years or less at the time of entering Machu Picchu. Older than 25 can not enter as a student
• The ID must have the Name of the university, name, and photo of the student
• The ID must have a valid expiration date

Invalid Student IDs

Student IDs are not eligible for a discount when:

• Traveler is older than 25
• Student ID without expiration date
• ISIC cards are not valid. 

Similar tours to Machu Picchu you might be interested in:

• Private Inca Trail 4 days
• Short Inca Trail 2 days
• Luxury Inca Trail 4 days
• Rainbow Mountain Hike

Inca Trail Hike Frequently Asked Questions

How to book the inca trail tour.

Booking the famous Machu Picchu Trek is easy with TreXperience; click on any BOOK NOW button, select your departure date, fill up the form with all details requested, including passport information, and finally submit the initial payment required to book the Inca Trail Trek .

Due to the permits' strict booking policy for the Inca Trail administered by the Peruvian Government, all Inca Trail bookings must be confirmed manually. Only after manual confirmation from our side will your tour be 100% guaranteed. 

Can I store my luggage with TreXperience?

During the Machu Picchu Inca Trail , you will only take your daypack and a small duffle bag with 7 kg (15 lb). Your luggage must stay in Cusco. You can store it at the hotel or with TreXperience. 

How can I reduce the risk of altitude sickness?

There are a few things you can do to reduce your risk of altitude sickness:

• Arrive at Cusco two days in advance so your body has time to acclimatize
• Avoid rapid ascent so your body has time to adapt to its new altitude.
• Stay hydrated by drinking lots of fluids like water and avoid alcohol consumption.
• At high altitudes, eat smaller and lighter meals
• Sleeping enough each night will allow your body to recover from exertion during the day.

If you start to feel symptoms of altitude sickness, descend to a lower altitude immediately and rest until you feel better.

What can I do in Cusco before the Inca Trail?

We recommend low-altitude tours or staying in the city of Cusco.

• On the first day, you can rest in Cusco and, if possible, explore on a guided Cusco City Tour in the afternoon.
• On the second day , you can take a full-day Super Sacred Valley Tour and, if possible, stay in Ollantaytambo. If you stay in Ollantaytambo, you will save a 2-hour trip by bus on the day of the Machu Picchu Inca Trail .

What are the recommended tours after the Inca Trail?

After the Inca Trail, we recommend resting for one day to recover if possible, and then you can explore more places in Cusco. 

• Rainbow Mountain is the best day tour in Cusco after the Machu Picchu Inca Trail . This fantastic hike takes you to the colored mountain at 5200 meters and the Red Valley. 
• Humantay Lake hikes is another classic day tour located at 4200 meters. 
• You can travel to Puno by bus and explore the floating islands.

How long in advance do I have to book the Inca Trail?

Inca Trail is the most popular trek in South America; only 500 permits are sold daily, and this number includes porters, tour guides, chefs, and travelers. Make sure you book far in advance to get your preferred date. 

For months like April, May, June, and July, we recommend booking the previous year before October: Every year, in the first months of October, the Inca Booking system will be open for the next year, and some dates will sell out immediately. 

We recommend booking at least 6 months in advance for the high season and 3 months in advance for the slow season. 

What happens if the Inca Trail is sold out?

Our team will contact you to offer alternative tours to Machu Picchu or dates if the travel date is sold out. It's important to note that submitting the payment does not guarantee an Inca Trail permit. You must always wait for manual confirmation from our team indicating that we have successfully secured the Inca Trail permits . This process could take around 24 hours; if it is a weekend, the confirmation will be sent on Mondays. 

How many people are allowed in each group?

The maximum group size is 16 travelers . However, this number is hardly met since it will depend on how many spots we sell before the permits are sold out. These are the general rules of the Inca Trail and apply to all tour operators.

The average group size is 8 to 12 travelers per group . 

Is it better to have a group of 8 or 12 to 16?

Some operators only offer groups of 8 people, saying guests will get personalized service. However, this is not the best option for the following reasons:

• Groups of 8 people or fewer will only be allowed 1 tour guide
• Groups of 9 or more will be allowed 2 tour guides . 

As a tour guide and my personal experience, managing a group of 8 people alone is very challenging; if we have travelers of different ages and speeds, it will become complicated for 1 person to lead the group. 

If there are 9, 10, or 12 travelers and 2 tour guides, it is easier to manage as 1 tour guide can be at the front of the line, and 1 tour guide can stay at the back. Hiking in a group tour during the Inca Trail, all travelers will walk at their own speed and only re-group at specific places for resting or guided tours. 

When organizing a group tour, it is difficult to know how many people will be on a specific date. However, we will always aim to get the maximum to have 2 tour guides.

What equipment can I rent from TreXperience?

Sleeping bags, Trekking poles, and inflatable mattresses are not included during the Inca Trail. You can bring your own, or you can rent from us.

• Sleeping bag: $25
• Trekking poles: $20
• Inflatable mattress: $20

The prices are in USD. We provide a foam sleeping pad for the Inca Trail tour ; the air mattress is optional if you want more comfort.

How long is the 4-day Inca Trail?

The total distance of the Inca Trail is 26 miles or 42 km long. The average person takes about 4 days to complete the entire trail, but if you're not used to hiking, you may want to give yourself an extra day or two. The Short Inca Trail is also a great option if you don't have the time for an entire hike.

How high is the Classic Inca Trail?

• Cusco City is located at 3,399 m or 11,151 ft.
• The start point of the Inca Trail is KM 82 at 2,642 m or 8,867 ft.
• The average altitude of the Inca Trail is 3,000 m or 9,842 ft.
• Dead Woman's Pass is the highest mountain at 4,215 m  or 13,835 ft.
• The second highest mountain pass is Runkuraqay  at 4,000 m or 13,123 ft.
• Machu Picchu , where the Inca Trail ends, is 2,430 m 7,972 ft.
• Aguas Calientes town , where we take the train back to Cusco, is 2,040 m or 6,692 ft.

Where does the 4-day Inca Trail start?

The Classic Inca Trail starts in Km 82, Piscacucho (2,642 m or 8,867 ft), in the Ollantaytambo district, Urubamba Province. The main checkpoint is located on the right side of the Urubamba River. Once you cross the river, you enter the Inca Trail protected area.

The  Short Inca Trail  starts at Km 104, also called Chachabamba. This is the express Inca Trail for only 1 day, and you will visit Machu Picchu the next day .

When is the best time to hike the Inca Trail?

This question is often tricky to answer. Inca Trail is Inca Trail, and you will be amazed even with the sun, rain, wind, cold, or any weather you might encounter on your trip. You must have the proper equipment and always be prepared for all types of weather. Inca Trail is located in the cloud forest and is famous for having the most unstable weather in Peru and perhaps the world.

• The best months to hike and visit Machu Picchu  are April to October.
• The driest months on the Inca Trail are May, June, July, and August. However, these are the busiest months of the year in Machu Picchu.
• The rainy season starts in November and lasts until March; however, it is possible to have whole weeks without rain.
• The Inca trails are closed during February due to heavy rains and maintenance.

When was the Inca Trail Built?

The Inca Empire built the trail in the 15th century, most likely between 1450 and 1500. This is based on archaeological evidence that has been found along the route, as well as historical records of the Inca Empire.

Why is the Classic Inca Trail Important?

After the Inca Trail's rediscovery in 1915, archaeologists explored the ancient route. They found many Incan temples, religious sites, and administrative areas, such as Patallacta, Runkuraqay Sayacmarca, Phuyupatamarca, Intipata, Wiñaywayna, and Intipunku.

The vast number of Inca Sites, the remarkably well-preserved ancient Inca Trail, the secluded location of the area, the varied landscapes, the fantastic view, endemic flora, and fauna are a few of the reasons why the Inca Trail hike has become one of the most popular hikes in South America.

How many days before the trek do I have to arrive in Cusco?

You should arrive in Cusco at least 2 days before your Inca Trail trek begins. This will give you time to acclimate to the high altitude and settle before starting your hike. Cusco is a beautiful city with plenty of things to see and do, so you won't be bored while waiting to start your trek. Plus, if you have any last-minute gear or supplies you need to pick up, you'll have time to do that before heading out.

When is the Classic Inca Trail Closed?

The Classic Inca Trail is closed annually from February to March for maintenance. It is also closed occasionally due to bad weather or other unforeseen circumstances. Before you plan to trek the Classic Inca Trail , check the latest information on closures.

Which Inca Trail Trek is the best?

There are 3 ways to make the Inca Trail and arrive at Machu Picchu through the Sungate.

• The Classic Inca Trail, 4 days and 3 nights, is the most popular, and 90% of travelers will choose this option—only camping.
• The 5-day Inca Trail, 3-night camping, 1-night hotel in Aguas Calientes.
• The  Short Inca Trail , 1 day hiking the last part of the Inca Trail and the next day visiting Machu Picchu.

This trek has other variations and extensions, like the  Salkantay Expedition, 6 days and 5 nights ; however, it is always based on those mentioned above.

Where do I have to book Inca Trail Permits?

Only authorized local, registered tour operators like TreXperience can book the Inca Trail permits in Cusco City. You can not secure the permits and must travel with a tour guide, chef, and porters.

How to get Inca Trail Permits?

The Inca Trail permits are released during the first days of October for the following year. During this month, we book the permits for next year's season. A few months might run out fast, like May, June, and July, so it is essential to get manual confirmation that the tour operator has secured the permits.

How hard is the Inca Trail?

Another tricky question! The Inca Trail is challenging but doable . You must be able to hike on uneven terrain for about 8 to 10 hours daily, sleep above 3,000 meters, and be able to go up and down the stairs on the trail.

If you are in average physical condition to handle this type of hike, you must practice regularly before coming to the Inca Trail, and you will have a wonderful time.

How much does Inca Trail Cost?

There are so many tour operators with reasonable prices when searching online; deciding which tour company you will travel with is always hard.

• The average price on a 4-day Classic Inca Trail tour is 700 to 790 USD
• The average price on the  Inca Trail 5 days trek  is 950 to 1400 USD
• The average Short Inca Trail  tour price is 500 to 550 USD

You can find better prices or options, but always verify what is included. Some tour operators do not have a personal porter for the Inca Trail or bus from Machu Picchu. TreXperience provides a personal porter and all transportation from start to end with panoramic trains.

Is the Inca Trail Hike Dangerous?

Any adventure trip you go on, there are always risks involved. Dangerous situations during the Inca Trail could be due to negligence or the force of nature. Following your tour guide's instructions is the best way to stay safe on the Inca Trail.

Can I Hike The Inca Trek Without a Guide?

You can not enter the Inca Trail without hiring a registered tour company. You must hike the Inca Trail with a tour guide, chef, and porters.

Inca Trail travel information

The Classic Inca Trail hike to Machu Picchu is one of the most breathtaking adventures in the world! Built by the Incas in the 15th century, also called  Qhapac Nan or Inca Trails, this extensive network of trails   helped to connect their empire, which included Colombia, Ecuador, Peru, Bolivia, Chile, and Argentina.

Cusco  was the capital city of the Great Inca Empire , therefore, the most important city. From Cusco, all  Inca Trails started and   connected to other locations across South America - these trails covered over 40,000 kilometers!

The Classic Inca Trail hike to Machu Picchu , which is well-known around the world, begins at Kilometer 82  - Piscacucho Village, located in Ollantaytambo district, Urubamba Province, in the Sacred Valley of Cusco, Peru.

The Incas built the Iconic Classic Machu Picchu Inca Trail in the 15th century. It is thought that the same people who built Machu Picchu also built the Inca Trail. The trail was used for trading between Cusco and the area around the Amazon region. 

After the Spanish conquest, this trail was lost for many years with Machu Picchu, and it was re-discovered in 1911 by an American,  Hiram Bingham III,  during his expeditions to Peru, searching for the Lost City of the Incas . Today, the Inca Trail and Machu Picchu are some of Peru's most famous tourist destinations.

The weather on the Inca Trail is unpredictable and variable. We have 2 seasons. However, you need to be prepared for all seasons when hiking to Machu Picchu .

• The wet season runs from November to March
• The dry season runs from April to October

The temperature during the Machu Picchu Trek varies significantly depending on the altitude and season; temperatures can reach as high as 80°F (27°C) during the day and drop below freezing at night, so hikers must come prepared for hot and cold weather conditions.

Difficulty:

Hiking the Machu Picchu Inca Trail can be challenging due to its length and high altitudes; however, its rewards make the experience worthwhile. Its breathtaking scenery will impress anyone while feeling great satisfaction from having accomplished something big!

Inca Trail Altitude Map

Inca Trail permits:

To participate in the  Classic Machu Picchu Trek , you will need to secure the permits long in advance. Every day, there are only 500 permits available, including porters, chefs, tour guides, and travelers. 

Inca Trail length:

The Inca Trail trek stretches for about 26 miles (42 kilometers) from the Sacred Valley (Km 82) , through the Andes Mountains, to the lost city of Machu Picchu .

Inca Trail compared with other tours:

The Inca Trail is one of the most popular trekking routes in the world, but if it is sold out, you might consider alternative treks to Machu Picchu . Below, you will find a fair comparison of the most popular tours. 

Inca Trail vs. Salkantay Trek

When choosing a trek to Machu Picchu , there are two main options: the Inca Trai l and the Salkantay Trek . Both tours offer stunning scenery and an unforgettable experience but have some key differences.  The Inca Trail hike  is the classic choice for a Machu Picchu trek . It's the most popular option – it's an incredible journey that takes you through some of the most stunning scenery and journey through history. The Classic Machu Picchu Trek follows the ancient path of the Incas and ends with a spectacular entrance into Machu Picchu through the Sun Gate. The Salkantay Trek is an excellent alternative to the Inca Trail . It's less crowded, more affordable, and still takes you through beautiful scenery. The highlight of the Salkantay Trek is Mount Salkantay, which, at 6,271 meters (20,549 feet), is one of the tallest mountains in Peru. The views from the summit are breathtaking! Another plus of the Salkantay Trek is that it ends with a visit to Aguas Calientes, where you can relax in the hotel before going to Machu Picchu.

Inca Trail vs. Lares Trek

Another great alternative Trek to Machu Picchu is the Lares Route, famous for being a more cultural trek and less intense than the Salkantay and Inca Trail. The Inca Trail takes you on a 4-day hike directly to the great citadel of Machu Picchu. You will be hiking through the mountains, spending the night in isolated campsites, and arriving at Machu Picchu through the Sun gate; this is the only trek that actually allows you to arrive hiking to Machu Picchu .  The Lares Trek is a shorter, 4-day option that starts in the village of Lares and ends at Machu Picchu. While it doesn't have as many Inca ruins along the route, it's a great choice if you want to avoid crowds and learn from the locals. To arrive at Machu Picchu, you need to travel by train and stay 1 night in a hotel in Aguas Calientes. 

Classic Inca Trail vs. Short Inca Trail hike

The original Classic Inca Trail 4 days is a long and challenging hike, but there is also a shorter version known as the Short Inca Trail . So, which one should you choose? The Classic Machu Picchu Inca Trail is a 26-mile (42-kilometer) long hike and takes four days to complete. It starts at Km 82, in the Sacred Valley , and ends at Machu Picchu. Trekkers will pass through beautiful scenery along the way, including alpine forests, mountain valleys, and lush jungles. The trail also crosses several high-altitude passes, reaching a maximum elevation of 13,829 feet (4,215 meters). The Short Inca Trail hike to Machu Picchu is only 10 miles (16 kilometers) long and can be completed in just 1 day. It starts at Km 104 and ends at Machu Picchu. While this route doesn't offer the same variety of scenery as the longer Inca Trail , it still passes through some stunning landscapes, including cloud forests.

Inca Trail vs. Quarry Trek

For those travelers searching for unique adventures, there is another amazing trek called the Cachicata Trek or Inca Quarry Trail to Machu Picchu . The Cachicata Trek to Machu Picchu is a new but amazing route to Machu Picchu that few people know about or hike.

The Inca Trail Trek to Machu Picchu is a once-in-a-lifetime experience, an epic trek many travelers want to complete but few will dare. This trek is a complete experience combining adventure, camping, hiking, challenge, history, culture, and the amazing reward of arriving at Machu Picchu hiking.

The Quarry Trek is an excellent option If you're looking for a shorter, easier trek. It's only 20 miles long and takes you to some of the best viewpoints of the Sacred Valley. The Quarry Trek is also a great option if you want to avoid the crowds of the Inca Trail.

Inca Trail vs. Choquequirao trek

The Inca Trail and Choquequirao Hike  are 2 of the most epic hikes to an ancient citadel in Peru. Both treks offer stunning views of the Andes mountains and the ancient Inca ruins, but there are some critical differences between the two.

• The Inca Trail is much more popular than the Choquequirao trek.
• The Choquequirao trek is more challenging but less crowded and offers a more authentic experience.
• The Inca Trail trek takes 4 days to complete, while the Choquequirao trek can be 4,5, up to 8-10 days.

Inca Trail Marathon:

One of the most popular events in the world is the Inca Trail Marathon . This race takes place in Peru and follows the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu . The marathon is considered one of the most difficult in the world due to the high altitude and rugged terrain. However, many runners find the challenge to be worth it for the once-in-a-lifetime experience.

The Inca Trail Marathon is held every year in May or June. The race starts at KM 82 of the Inca Trail, about 2,000 meters above sea level. Runners then go through the jungle, mountains, and ancient ruins before finishing at Machu Picchu. The total race distance is approximately 42 kilometers. 

Inca Trail elevation gain:

The Inca Trail elevation gain is around 3,000 feet (914 meters) from start to finish. The highest point on the trail is 13,828 feet (4,215 meters) at Dead Woman's Pass. Most of the elevation gain is in the first few days, with around 1,000 feet (305 meters) of ascent on Day 1 and 800 feet (244 meters) on Day 2. After that, the trial levels out somewhat, although there are still some ups and downs.

Inca Trail Reservations:

If you plan to participate in the Classic Machu Picchu Trek , you'll need to make sure you have a reservation. This trek is one of the most popular hiking trails in the world, and it cannot be easy to get a spot.

• There is only one way to make a reservation for the trail. You need to book through an authorized tour company like TreXperience .
• When making your reservation, you must provide your passport information and choose a start date for your hike.
• It's important to note that the Inca Trail is closed in February.
• You should also try booking at least six months in advance, as spots fill up quickly.
• Once your reservation is secured, all that is left is packing for your adventure!

Inca Trail's highest point:

Dead Woman's Pass is a high mountain on the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu. It is 4,215 meters (13,829 ft) above sea level and is the highest point on the Inca Trail. The pass gets its name from its resemblance to a woman lying on her back. The pass is a challenging section of the Inca Trail, with steep ascents and descents.

Inca Trail 2 days

The short Inca Trail is an excellent option for those who want to hike the trail but are short on time. The trail is only 2 days long and is a great way to see some of the most incredible views of the Andes Mountains. The trail starts at Km 104, about 1 hour from Cusco by train from Ollantaytambo. From there, you will hike for about 4-5 hours to reach the site of Wiñay Wayna. You will enjoy a box lunch and continue the final stretch of the trail to Machu Picchu to the Sun Gate (Initupunku), from where you will have the first and most amazing view of Machu Picchu. 

Inca Trail 5 days

The Inca Trail 5-day slow version is an excellent option for those who want to enjoy the scenery and take their time on the trail. The slower pace means you'll have more time to take photos, enjoy the views, and explore the ruins. This version of the trail is also a good option for those not as physically fit, as it is not as strenuous as the shorter versions. Book your tour early if you're planning on hiking the Inca Trail. Tours often fill up months in advance, especially during peak season (May-September).

Sun Gate or Intipunku:

Sungate, or Intipunku, is the official name for the entrance to Machu Picchu from the Inca Trail. The views from the Sun Gate are breathtaking, and it's incredible to stand at the top of Machu Picchu and take it all in.

Inca Bridge in Machu Picchu:

The Inca Bridge stretches across a deep gorge, which has a height of approximately 60 meters (200 feet). The Incas constructed the structure during the 15th century. It's not entirely clear what the Inca Bridge was used for, but it's believed that it could have served as a means for the Incas to traverse the gorge without having to go down into the valley beneath it.

It's possible that the bridge was built as a defensive structure to stop enemies from entering the citadel. The Inca Bridge at Machu Picchu is a remarkable engineering achievement that will impress anyone who sees it.

Training for Inca Trail:

Preparing for the Machu Picchu Inca Trail can be demanding. Below are some recommendations for enjoying this amazing hike. 

• After booking the tour, start training and going on regular hikes
• Increase your physical activities gradually
• Walking or running for 30 minutes three to five days a week improves health.
• Fitness requires strong legs. Untrained legs may struggle in Vietnam's hilly terrain.
• Squats and lunges at home or mountain hikes will prepare you for your holiday.

Before hiking Machu Picchu, allow time to acclimate to Cusco's high altitude. The trail reaches 4,000 meters (13,000 feet). Preventing altitude sickness requires progressive acclimatization.

Inca Trail stairs:

The Inca Trail has different routes with varying numbers of stairs based on the path you choose. The number of trails changes every year due to maintenance and updates, so we can't give an exact number. We can provide an idea of what to expect on your trek by sharing feedback from past hikers.

Research on hikers who completed the Inca Trail found that they took around 5,000-7,000 steps. On average, a person takes 200 to 300 steps to walk one mile. This is equivalent to 120 to 190 steps for every kilometer. If you are going to hike the Inca Trail, keep in mind that you will come across many stairs! Don't be discouraged; the experience you gain here will be valuable.

Inca Trail facts:

• The Inca Trails are an ancient network of roads and trails spanning more than 4,000 miles through the Andes Mountains. The Classic Inca Trail connects Cusco with Machu Picchu.
• It was constructed over 500 years ago by the Incas and remains one of the world's premier hiking trails today. Covering 26 miles and taking four days to hike, the Inca Trail can be found in Peru's Andes Mountains at 13,000 feet.
• The Inca Trail is a rewarding hike with stunning panoramic views of mountains, valleys, rivers, and ancient ruins. But its trail has many challenges for hikers, such as narrow paths with steep ascents/descents as well as unpredictability weather conditions.
• Trekkers typically spend four days traversing their trail, though shorter and longer options may also be available.

Inquire about this Tour

Inca Trail Permits

Upcoming departures.

• Sacred Valley
• Aguas Calientes
• Peruvian Amazon
• Short Inca Trail 2D
• Classic Inca Trail 4D/3N
• Inca Trail 5D/4N
• Luxury Inca Trail Tour 5D
• Lares and Inca Trail 4D
• Salkantay Inca Trail Trek 6D
• Ancascocha Trail 3D
• Ancascocha Trek 5D
• Huchuy Qosqo Trek 3D
• Lares Valley Cultural Trek 3D
• Lares Trek to Machu Picchu 4D
• Salkantay Trail 4D
• Salkantay Trek 5D
• Choquequirao Trek to Machu Picchu 7D
• Choquequirao Adventure to Machu Picchu 8D
• Choquequirao trek to Machu Picchu (with Vilcabamba) 9D
• Machu Picchu Tours
• Search Treks by Number of Days
• Ausangate Trek 5D
• Ausangate Rainbow Mountain Tour 5D
• Ausangate to Laguna Sibinacocha 6D
• Palccoyo Mountain Tour 1D
• Rainbow Mountain Day Trip 1D
• Rainbow Mountain Trek 2D
• Choquequirao Trek 4D
• Choquequirao In-Depth 5D
• Choquequirao to Vitcos Trek 8D

Classic Inca Trail 4 Days / 3 Nights

Inca trail 5 days / 4 nights.

• Classic Lares Trek 4D
• Lares Trail 5D
• Laguna Humantay Tour 1D
• Salkantay Trek 5 days
• Vilcabamba Trek to Espiritu Pampa 8D
• Waqrapukara Trek 1D
• Huchuy Qosqo 2D
• Inca Trail and Choquequirao Tour 12D
• Trek Choquequirao to Espiritu Pampa 15D
• Christmas Chocolatada Trek 5D
• Inti Raymi Tour 1D
• Q’eswachaka Bridge Tour 1D
• Qoyllur Rit’i Festival Trek 2D
• Qoyllur Rit’i Pilgrimage Trek 4D
• Virgen del Carmen Festival Tour 2D
• Cusco City Tours
• Cultural Immersion Tours
• History & Nature Tours
• Family Friendly Tours
• Why Choose Apus Peru?
• Our COVID Relief Efforts
• Pre Trek Acclimatization Tour
• Trekkers Wanted Group Treks
• Clean Up Treks
• How to Prepare for Your Trek
• How to Book
• Booking Conditions
• Extras, Upgrades & Add-Ons
• Equipment Rental & Upgrades
• Trekking in Peru
• How to Prepare
• Things to Do
• Family Travel
• Culture & Festivals
• Travel Sustainably
• Apus Peru: On the Trail

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Simply enter your details in the enquiry form to start personalising your experience or if you have any questions about booking this tour.

About the 4 day Inca Trail Trek

The Classic Inca Trail 4 days adventure is a once-in-a-lifetime experience for the adventure-seeker wanting to hike a famous trek in Peru. Each day brings something new as you travel from Andean tundra to cloud forest, passing incredible Incan sites along the way.

Read about hiking the Inca Trail vs an alternative trek in Peru .

See Full Description

Hiking the classic inca trail.

From Colombia to Chile, the Andes are home to thousands of “Inca Trails”. The ancient Incas connected their vast empire through an intricate network of roads, facilitating transport for trade and in times of war. There are an estimated 26,000 – 40,000 km of roads criss-crossing the Andes, of which the Classic Inca Trail trekking route is just a tiny part.

The Classic Inca Trail starts in the Sacred Valley of the Incas, and finishes in the jungle. You’ll first travel from Cusco to Km 82, where the trail begins, by private transport. This now-famous trek is a once-in-a-lifetime experience, never to be forgotten. 

Did you know? FAQs about the Inca Trail

Only a special few actually get to hike the Inca Trail every year. Peru’s permit system means that just 500 people are allowed on the trail every day – approximately 200 visitors and 300 trekking staff.  Permits are sold on a first-come, first-served basis, and are in very high demand: they can sell out as much as 6 to 8 months in advance! Once spaces have been booked, NO OPERATOR CAN OFFER YOU A SPACE. All spaces are personal and non-transferable, and there is no waiting list, so if someone cancels, their spot cannot be taken by someone new. Also note that the Classic Inca Trail is closed in February for maintenance.

Read more facts about the Inca Trail in our blog!

We treat our staff right!

The Classic Inca Trail is notorious for the mistreatment of porters and other trail staff who are asked to carry  more  than government regulation allow. At Apus Peru, we do things differently, going above and beyond these minimums. Read more about how we take care of all our staff , including porters and horsemen.

Tips for Hiking the Inca Trail

For tips and inspiration before hiking the Inca Trail, check out these blogs on our website:

• An Insider’s Guide to Hiking the Inca Trail
• When is the Best Time to Hike the Inca Trail?
• What to Pack for the Inca Trail
• The Orchids of Machu Picchu

What to Expect on the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu 4 Days Adventure

Inca trail terrain – what to expect.

The Classic Inca Trail follows an ancient Inca road, meaning that you will be hiking along a combination of ground trails and stone-paved paths. Some sections are very steep , and require sustained uphill or downhill climbing. Much of the trail consists of stone steps, some of which are quite tall, as much as 30 cm (12 inches). This can be hard on the knees, and could be a problem for someone with a knee injury. The Inca Trail may also be a problem for you if you suffer from vertigo or have a severe fear of heights, as there are sections with steep drop-offs, where the path narrows and becomes single file.

Climate conditions, flora & fauna on the Inca Trail

You will hike through a wide-ranging series of micro-climates, from alpine tundra to lush cloud forest. Expect to see a variety of flora and fauna, including different species of cacti, orchids, birds and possibly a vizcacha or two. Majestic views at high altitude of neighboring mountain ranges also await, as well as the chance to see several impressive Inca ruins along the way.

How busy is the Inca Trail?

This is a very popular and busy trek. If you hike the Inca Trail, you will be hiking with hundreds of other people, and staying in busy (sometimes noisy) campsites. If you want a remote, wilderness trekking experience, the Inca Trail is not the trek for you. Talk to one of our Peru trekking experts for tips on alternative treks to Machu Picchu .

>> For more great insight about what to expect on the Classic Inca Trail, check out this great blog about hiking the Inca Trail day by day by past Apus Peru passengers Trans-America Journeys.

Inca Trail 4 Days - Trek Highlights

• Retrace the steps of Ancient Incas as you hike through the Sun Gate into Machu Picchu
• Hike along a combination of ground trails and stone-paved paths. There are stone steps, with steep uphill and downhill sections.
• Experience a wide-ranging series of micro-climates, from alpine tundra to lush cloud forest.

>> See more photos and information about the Inca Trail

Prices are per person in USD, based on group size. Apus Peru exclusively operates  private groups , except by special request. Hiking the Inca Trail as a private group allows us to offer you a highly personalized experience, with more one-on-one time with your guide and a more tailored, off-the-beaten-path experience on the trail. We do not have fixed-date group departures. If you do not want to book a private trek, please see our  Trekkers Wanted  page for a list of open departures within your dates.

Please Note: These prices are subject to a new Peruvian law governing the employment of porters on the Inca Trail. These changes are expected to substantially increase the cost of operating the Inca Trail for all licensed agencies. Contact us to learn more.

WHY BOOK WITH US?

High quality personalized experience

Unique, off-the-beaten track routes

Experienced staff

Verified sustainability practices

$20 of every trek donated to  Threads of Peru

Travel that Gives Back

Important Details About this Trek

What is included, accommodation.

• Tent: 2 people in a 4-person tent, allowing for greater comfort and backpack storage!
• Basic foam mattress. If you would like greater comfort during the trek we can rent you an inflatable mattress. See Optional Extras & Upgrades below.
• Toilet tent
• Dining tent with camp tables and chairs, and kitchen tent for the cook to prepare meals
• Cook and cooking equipment, plus assistants for larger groups.
• Meals as indicated in the itinerary. Our professional cooks prepare a combination of traditional Peruvian and Western cuisine. Talk to your Travel Consultant during the booking process if you have certain preferences! Vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free options available. When served, salads are washed in boiled water.
• Boiled water to drink on the hike (which you can carry in your own reusable water bottle)
• Filtered water provided during the drive on the first day
• Lunch on the last day.
• Collection from your hotel on the morning of the Inca Trail Trek departure
• Private transport from Cusco to the trailhead and return at the end of the trek
• Bus between Aguas Calientes and Machu Picchu
• Train ticket (Expedition service) from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo
• Private transport from Ollantaytambo to Cusco.

Trekking Team

• English/Quechua/Spanish speaking professional guide, plus an assistant guide for groups over 8
• Porters, who carry camping equipment, food and kitchen utensils. We provide duffel bags at your briefing for your personal items (up to 7kg / 15 lbs per person). If you wish to take more, you can hire a personal porter. Please contact us for costs.
• Tents, sleeping bags and mattresses for our staff to sleep in, plus a budget for their meals
• First aid kit including emergency oxygen bottle

Additional inclusions

• Pre-trek briefing
• Inca Trail Permit (includes entry to Machu Picchu)

What is Not Included?

• Breakfast on the first morning
• Dinner on the last night
• Sleeping bags. Available for rent if you don’t have one with you.
• Additional Porter for more of your personal luggage, if you exceed the included 7kg (15 lbs).
• Tips for the guide, cook and muleteers
• Flights to/from Cusco
• Travel Insurance
• Entrance to the hot springs
• Entrance to Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain

Optional Extras & Upgrades

We offer you the opportunity to personalize your trek and make your experience more comfortable through our Optional Extras and Upgrades . All options are available during the reservation process; please ask your sales consultant for more information.

Equipment Available for Rent

• Porter to carry your own things (beyond the included 7kg / 15 lbs)
• Sleeping Bag suitable for -5˚C (1.8kg)
• Deluxe sleeping bag suitable for -15˚C (2.7kg)
• Camping pillow (0.27kg)
• Light-weight aluminum walking stick. Two sticks are recommended for tough hikes.

Service Upgrades

• Single-occupancy tent supplement
• If you’d like more flexibility in your return travel to Cusco, consider upgrading to the Vistadome train (Executive Class). This upgrade must be requested at time of booking.

Optional Activities

• Extra Day at Machu Picchu
• If you’d like to hike Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain , let us know at the time of booking as it requires a separate permit.
• When calculating the cost of renting equipment, calculate using the length of the entire trip, not just the number of trekking days.
• Please be careful with rented equipment! You are responsible for the cost of replacement if something is damaged or broken.
• Any upgrades or trip extensions must be requested at time of booking.
• All rental equipment needs to go in your personal duffel bag and counts towards the 8kg weight limit.

What to Pack

We recommend that you bring the following items with you:

• A fleece or down jacket is an essential item at this elevation;
• Hiking trousers with zip off shorts are a good idea, as day time temperatures can be quite warm, yet temperatures plummet as soon as the sun goes down. You can supplement these with leggings or thermals to wear underneath;
• A rain poncho or waterproof jacket is also important. It can rain or even snow at certain times of the year!;
• Water-resistant trekking boots are advisable. The trail on this hike can sometimes be muddy and wet, so we also recommend to bring extra socks!;
• A warm sleeping bag, rated to -15°C (5°F). If you prefer, you can rent one from us;
• A headlamp or torch;
• A high factor (SPF) sunscreen, a sun cap and sunglasses. The sun can be really strong, especially in dry season. Sun protection is essential!;
• A small daypack to carry your necessary items for each day’s hiking.

For our full packing list for treks in the Andes, see What to Pack for the Inca Trail .

Our blog How to Prepare for a Trek in Peru will also give you some great tips for how to get ready for your trek, before you even leave home.

Available Discounts

• Students : USD $30 off, in certain circumstances. Please enquire for details about eligibility.
• Youth 12-17 : 5% off. A valid passport must be presented upon booking.
• Children 5-11 years : 15% off. A valid passport must be presented upon booking.
• Children 0-4 years : 75% off. A valid passport must be presented upon booking. Children under 4 will not count towards the total number of guests in a group, but will be charged 25% of the per person price based on final group size. For example, a group of 4 adults and one child under 4: adults will be charged the full price per person based on a group size of 4 and the child will be charged 25% of the per person price for a group of 4. Children under 3 will not be considered to occupy a seat on any train or bus, and instead must ride on a parent’s lap. Car seats, cribs and other baby needs may not be included and must be discussed in advance. For more information about travelling with infants and toddlers, please see  this blog  as well as the  Age Requirements  section of our  Booking Conditions .
• 5% off a day tour listed price when you also book a 3-day or longer trek operated by Apus Peru

Guides & Safety on the Trail

Our whole trekking team is native to the Lares region and know the Inca Trail like the back of their hand! They are some of the warmest, endearing and wonderful people you are ever likely to meet.

Our guides are all licensed and receive regular training. They share their experience, professionalism, knowledge and enthusiasm with our passengers on every trek.

Get to know our team !

Trekkers Wanted!

Want to join a trek? Ready to confirm a departure date of your own, but interested in having others join you? Then Trekkers Wanted is for you! Our innovative Trekkers Wanted system matches people up who are interested in hiking the same trek, bringing costs down and multiplying the fun for everyone! Visit the link to read more about Trekkers Wanted, post your trek or search for confirmed departures!

Note : Trekkers Wanted for the Inca Trail ONLY available while permits last for your departure date.

Important Info

General Information About trekking with Apus Peru

• Each guide has their own preferred route and so the route you trek might not correspond exactly to the route described here.
• The times cited in this itinerary are approximate. Walking times depend on the group, and the guide may change lunch spots and campsites, depending on the progress of the group.

Specific Information About Hiking the Classic Inca Trail 4D

• The Inca Trail is not open in February
• Campsites or itinerary are subject to change , depending on the time of booking and availability of campsites. The Ministry of Culture, the government institution responsible for operating the Inca Trail, allocates campsites to authorized trekking companies on a first-come, first-served basis, and so we cannot guarantee that all campsites described in this itinerary will be available when you book.
• Wiñay Wayna vs Phuyupatamarca campsites . Your last night on the trail will be spent either at Wiñaywayna or Phuyupatamarca campsites. Many people covet Wiñay Wayna as it’s just a 2-hour hike to Machu Picchu from there, whereas it is 5 hours from Phuyupatamarca. Being the most popular, Wiñaywayna is allocated first. If you have your heart set on camping at Wiñay Wayna, book early! The plus side to Phuyupatamarca is that it is generally less crowded.

Booking Your Classic Inca Trail 4D Trek

• A scanned copy of your passport and a non-refundable deposit must be provided upon booking a Classic Inca Trail trek. This is due to government regulations which require complete passport details and full payment of the Machu Picchu entrance fee in order to issue a permit. Your reservation will only be confirmed when we have your entrance ticket in our hands.
• If your passport number changes after you book, you must tell us immediately or you may lose your booking! If the name or number on your passport is different from the name or number on your Inca Trail permit, you will not be allowed to start the trek and you will not be entitled to a refund.
• You must carry your original passport with you on the trail.
• If you booked a Classic Inca Trail tour at a student rate, you must bring your valid student card and ISIC card on the trail with you. If you do not present your student card, you will not be allowed to start the trek and you will not be entitled to a refund, nor given an opportunity to pay the full rate.

Extras & Upgrades on the Classic Inca Trail 4D

• This trek includes transportation by train from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo on the Expedition service (Tourist Class), followed by bus transport from Ollantaytambo to Cusco. If you’d like more flexibility in your return travel to Cusco, consider upgrading to the Vistadome train (Executive Class) for an extra $30 per person per leg. This upgrade must be requested at time of booking.

Ready to Book?

Does this trek sound like just what you were looking for? If you’re ready to book or just want to find out a bit more information, fill out the Inquiry Form in the top right-hand corner of this page to get the ball rolling. You’ll be connected with one of our amazing sales people who will be able to turn your dream of hiking in the Andes into a reality. For more information on the entire booking process, please see our How To Book page.

Travel insurance is a must! World Nomads offers travel insurance for adventure activities .

4-Day Inca Trail Trek Itinerary

Day 1 cusco - ollantaytambo - km 82 - llactapata - huayllabamba.

• Total Walking Distance: 11km (6.8 mi)
• Total Walking Time: 5h
• Minimum Altitude: 2700m (8858 ft) / Maximum Altitude: 3000m / (9842 ft)
• Altitude of camp: 3000m (9842 ft)
• Approx. night temperature: 7˚C (45˚F)

Your 4 day Inca Trail trek begins with a pickup from your Cusco hotel early in the morning in private transport. You should have breakfast in your hotel or bring some snacks. Our first stop will be the “living Inca village” of Ollantaytambo after about a 1.5 hour drive, where you will have some time for last-minute purchases, or a quick breakfast if you missed it in Cusco! Then we will continue to Piscacucho (also known as Kilometer 82) where the Classic Inca Trail starts.

On arrival at KM 82 (2700m / 8858m), it is necessary to show entrance tickets, original passports and student card (if applicable). Crossing the Urubamba River, we begin our Inca Trail hike by climbing upwards from the beautiful Sacred Valley, watching the river get smaller below us. 

We hike through typical dry forest growing prickly pear and other cactus, and the tara tree. We will walk around 3 hours (6km / 3.7 mi) to Llactapata, the first archaeological site on our journey. From there, another 4 km (2.5 mi) of gentle uphill through farmland takes us to Huayllabamba (also spelled Wayllabamba, 3000m / 9842 ft), and our campsite for the night.

Day 2 Huayllabamba - Llulluchapampa - Dead Woman's Pass – Pacaymayo

• Total Walking Distance: 7.5 km (4.6 mi)
• Total Walking Time: 6h
• Minimum Altitude: 3000m (9842 ft) / Maximum Altitude: 4215m (13,828 ft)
• Altitude of Camp: 3620m (11,876 ft)
• Approx night temperature: 7˚C (45˚F)

After a good night’s rest, we will get started on what is generally considered the most challenging day of the Classic Inca Trail to Machu Picchu. We wake early in order to get a good start on the day, but we typically leave later than other groups to make sure we’re warmed up and ready to tackle the highest point on the trail.

Leaving pastoral villages and farmland behind, we enter the subtropical forest, stopping for an early lunch around Llulluchapampa (3780m / 12,402 ft). It’s 3.5 km (2.2 mi) from the campsite at Wayllabamba to Llulluchapampa, or about 2 hours of hiking.

From here we will start a steep ascent towards the highest pass on the classic Inca Trail 4 days route: the Abra de Warmihuañusca, or “Dead Woman’s Pass,” coming in at an impressive 4220m (13,845 ft). While it’s just 1.5 km (0.9 mi) to the pass, it takes us 2 hours as we climb upwards steeply – yes, it’s difficult! One of the advantages of our slower paced day is that the porters shouldn’t be racing past you as you take on the pass. You’ll feel an amazing sense of achievement upon reaching the top!

After a short rest, we continue downwards 600m (1968 ft) over 3 km (1.8 mi) through very humid forest to the evening campsite of Pacaymayo (3620m / 11,876 ft).

Day 3 Pacaymayo - Sayakmarka - Phuyupatamarca / Wiñay Wayna

• Total Walking Distance: 15km (9.3 mi) to Phuyupatamarca; or 16km (9.9 mi) to Wiñay Wayna
• Total Walking Time: 9h
• Minimum Altitude: 2670m (8760 ft) / Maximum Altitude: 3960m (12,992 ft)
• Altitude of Camp: 3680m (12,073 ft) at Phuyupatamarca / 2670m (8760 ft) at Wiñay Wayna
• Approx night temperature: 9˚C (48˚F)

For many people, Day 3 of the 4 day Inca trail hike is by far the best. After another early breakfast, we walk to the beautiful Inca site of Runkurakay (3960m / 12,992 ft), one of the checkpoints and the beginning of the original Royal Inca trail to Machu Picchu, known as Qhapaq Ñan. 

We continue on to Sayakmarka from here, one of the most beautiful Inca ruins on the Classic Inca Trail. From last night’s campsite to Sayacmarca (3620m /11,877 ft) it is about 3.5km (2.2 mi), but there is plenty of up and down. After our tour of these ruins, we will continue onto Chaquicocha (“dry lake,” in Quechua) where we will have lunch. 

After lunch you are in for a big treat as you hike the best section – in our humble opinion! – of the Inca trail to Machu Picchu 4 days. The hike from Chaquicocha to Phuyupatamarca takes about 1.5 hours, as you stop to take pictures, discover beautiful orchids, see hummingbirds, and again have a view of the Sacred River, the Willka Mayu , or Urubamba River (also known as the Vilcanota). We can also see caves and a tunnel near the trail. 

An hour later we arrive at Phuyupatamarca (“town in the clouds”), the third highest point on the trail (3680m / 12,073ft) where, if you’re lucky, you may see breathtaking views of Salkantay mountain.

After feasting our eyes for a moment, we continue downhill through the cloud forest. After the first 20 minutes, we will see one of the steepest staircases on the entire Inca Trail, carved into the rock. In total we descend about 3 hours until we reach Wiñay Wayna (‘forever young’), our campsite for the evening. 

Near the campsite is the truly stunning Winay Wayna ruins, arguably the most beautiful ruins on the trail and certainly with some spectacular views. No matter how tired you are, don’t miss out on seeing this wonder!

Please Note

• Only maybe 1 in 5 hikers on the Inca Trail are treated to beautiful views of Salkantay from Phuyupatamarca. If having wonderful views of Salkantay mountain is important to you, you should consider doing the 5 day Inca trail hike instead, as early in the morning or late in the afternoon the chances of seeing Salkantay are much higher – as much as 80%.
• Campsites on the Classic Inca Trail are allocated on a first-come, first-served basis, and we cannot guarantee that Wiñay Wayna will be available. If not, the alternative campsite is located at Phuyupatamarca, located farther away from Machu Picchu but generally less crowded. For more details about the differences between these two campsites, check out our blog on Phuyupatamarca vs Winay Wayna .

Day 4 Wiñay Wayna - Inti Punku - Machu Picchu - Aguas Calientes - Cusco

• Total Walking Distance: 5.5km (3.4 mi)
• Total Walking Time: 2h (from Wiñay Wayna); 5h (from Phuyupatamarca)
• Minimum Altitude: 2670m (8760 ft) / Maximum Altitude: 2730m (8956 ft)

We will rise very early on Day 4 of the 4 day Inca Trail hike in order to arrive at Inti Punku (the Sun Gate; 2730m/8,956ft) in the early morning. This early morning hike is the final part of the classic Inca Trail to Machu Picchu and from the Sun Gate you have your first view of the enigmatic Machu Picchu. If we’re lucky, we may be able to spot the sun rising over Machu Picchu from where we stand!

After some time there, we will walk down the last part of the trail to the spot where you can take the classic shot of this ancient city (yes, you might encounter others hiking up to this spot from the ruins below!) From Inti Punku, we descend into Machu Picchu through the control point where we register ourselves and leave our backpacks and then we enter this famous city. Finally, we visit Machu Picchu itself! Your guide will give you a 2h walking tour of the historic citadel.

When your two hour tour of Machu Picchu is finished, we will enjoy a buffet lunch at the Tinkuy Restaurant, located just outside the gates inside the Machu Picchu Sanctuary Lodge, which will be a welcome treat after the rigours of the trail.

At this point, you will return to Aguas Calientes, either on foot or by bus (bus fare is included in the price of your trek). Here you might want to explore the extensive Aguas Calientes markets, but note, some prices may be double what you would find in Cusco for the same thing.

Alas, your 4 day Inca Trail journey comes to a close, but not before you enjoy spectacular views of the river and surrounding mountains as you journey from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo by train. The train trip takes about 2 hours, and arriving in Ollantaytambo, you will be greeted by our private car to take you the rest of the way back to Cusco, where we will leave you at your hotel.

What about Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain?

You may have heard about the Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain hikes, both amazing challenges and extra things to do at Machu Picchu. We do not recommend tackling either of these hikes on the Inca trail 4 days itinerary. Both hikes have limited entry times and it can be hard to get there in time; not to mention, you will arrive already quite tired after an early morning start and after hiking 2-5 hours to get there. 

If you really have your heart set on doing one of these hikes, we recommend making your Inca trail 5 days instead of 4. 

For more details, check out our Machu Picchu hikes blog, as well as our 5 day Inca Trail itinerary . The 2-day Inca Trail is another alternative itinerary where you can easily add one of these hikes.

Want more time to explore?

Talk to your Travel Consultant about  adding an Extra Day at Machu Picchu.

Related Tours

Lares and 2 Day Inca Trail

Deanna & Dwayne J (Australia)

The Inca Trail was an amazing experience. Apus and particularly our guide Arturo was absolutely amazing. We could not have done it without him. He was absolutly fantastic, patient, very knowledgeable, courteous and very accommodating.

Bryan H. (USA)

Excellent food & well prepared at every meal. Commitment to a clean trail & camping area. The staff always seemed happy and worked together well.

“Would give it 5 stars from moment of enquiry to end of trip! Excellent communication, including at the pre-trip meeting which [our travel consultant] Sarah attended too. [The route was] challenging in some parts but [our guide] Herbert was great of helping us get through and giving information as a distraction, and resting when necessary. [He was also] constantly removing litter from trail, the porters made sure no food, etc. was wasted. I’m vegetarian, [our cook] Herbert made excellent alternatives to meat, very good at preventing cross-contamination. Absolutely delicious. Our guides, cook, porters were so friendly and welcoming, took excellent care of us – we had so much fun, felt safe and comfortable the whole time. We can’t thank Apus Peru, Herbert (guide), Herbert (cook), Valentine (head of porters), and our 5 porters enough!”

It was better than expected, and we had high expectations! The route was challenging but so rewarding. We loved the Inca sites and scenery, and changing landscapes. The food was incredible, we were blown away by the quality and quantity. One of the best experiences of my life! I loved it so much and I know [my wife] Emily did too. The staff were just outstanding and so kind.

Greco was the most knowledgeable guide on the trail by far. He was funny, knew so much history/culture, and answered all of our questions with respect. The trek was harder than I expected, but doable. I did not expect the trail to be so rocky , but the views were more beautiful than I ever imagined! The highlight was hiking Huayna Picchu, and I honestly enjoyed my meals and playing cards with Greco at the camp. [One thing I noticed:] No single use plastics! Other trekking companies had more trash and to-go containers. Best trip ever! Beyond my wildest expectations. Oh and Greco was an amazing translator! And the private bathroom was an unexpected surprise.

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4-Day Inca Trail – Ultimate Guide To The Classic Trek

The 4-day Inca Trail to Machu Picchu is celebrated as Peru’s most famous hike. This is one of the world’s most iconic trekking experiences and provides an awesome combination of breathtaking landscapes and ancient Incan sites.

This detailed, day-by-day guide of the 4-day Inca Trail is based on my personal experience.

In this article, I will give you insights on what to expect and how to prepare for this adventure of a lifetime.

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4-Day Inca Trail - Ultimate Guide To The Classic Trek

4 day / 3 night classic inca trail route and distance.

Our handy route map below shows the 4D/3N Classic route which typically departs from Cusco (3,399m / 11,151 ft) and ends at the iconic ruins of Machu Picchu (2,430m / 7,972 ft).

Please Note:  Regarding camping sites on the route map below, the 4D Inca Trail trek itinerary can vary from tour company to tour company. See more in our article on the best Inca Trail trekking companies for epic 4-day Inca Trail tours. 

The total trek distance from Cusco to Machu Picchu is roughly 45km (26 miles) and reaches a maximum altitude of 4,200m (13,775 ft). It is a moderately challenging trek that can be completed by most people, as long as they are fit and well acclimatized.

You may also like:

• How difficult is the Inca trail
• Training program for the Inca trail
• Avoiding altitude sickness on the Inca trail

What You Need To Know About Booking The Classic 4-Day Inca Trail

The first thing you need to know is that permits sell out fast! The trail is world-famous, so hikers should book their tickets 6 months to a year in advance. Only 500 permits are issued per day and half of those are reserved for porters/guides.

Although the classic trek is 4D/3N, most tour companies will arrange your pre and post-trek hotels. This means most tours are in fact 7D/6N (with one acclimatization day included).

The classic 4-day Inca Trail to Machu Picchu should include your ticket to Machu Picchu. This is usually a Circuit #3 ticket. Most people consider this the best circuit as the tour goes through the citadel and to the top of the mountain. If you want to do another route, then you will need to purchase an additional ticket.

Check out our handy altitude profile for the 4-day Inca Trail below to give you a better idea of the elevation you'll experience during your trek. 

• What to do at Machu Picchu
• Hiking Huayna Picchu
• Machu Picchu history
• Facts about the Inca trail

Looking for a day tour? Here are my 5 favourite day tours around Cusco: 

• Rainbow Mountain day trip (with meals)
• Moray and Salt Mines Quad Bike Tour
• Sacred Valley day tour
• Humantay Lake day tour
• Machu Picchu and Huayna Picchu entrance tickets

See more Cusco day trips .

Why Choose The 4-Day Inca Trail To Machu Picchu?

The Inca Trail is a chance to follow in the footsteps of ancient kings. For many, this is the one-and-only choice to do the original trek to Machu Picchu. Nothing beats the sense of achievement and wonder when you pass through the sun gate after 4 days of trekking.

The 4-Day Inca Trail gives you the best opportunity to see Peru’s sub-tropical Andean mountain environments. Trail habitats include cloud forests, alpine tundra and jungle landscapes. You will get to experience remote areas free from roads and human presence.

The impressive array of Inca archaeological sites is another top reason to hike the Inca Trail . Some of these ruins (Runcuracay, Phuyupatamarca, Wiñayhuayna, and Machu Picchu itself) are worthy of a visit on their own!

• Hiking the short 2-Day Inca Trail
• Cycling through the Inca Jungle Trek

4-Day Inca Trail To Machu Picchu - Daily Itinerary

Below is a typical itinerary for the 4D/3N classic route.

Day 1: Cusco – Ollantaytambo – KM82 – Wayllabamba

Day one consists of an early morning car or bus ride through the Sacred Valley, and a relatively easy ~12km (7.5 mi) trek.

You will be collected at your hotel early in the morning (usually between 05:00-06:00) by your tour operator and transported from Cusco into the Sacred Valley (some companies start their tour in Ollantaytambo).

The drive takes approximately 3 hours to reach the starting point, called KM82 (named as such as it is 82KM by train from Cusco).

On the drive, you will pass through the towns of Chinchero, Urabamba and Ollantaytambo. You may even stop for about an hour in either Urubamba and Ollantaytambo, where you can grab some breakfast and last minute supplies.

The trail from KM82 first crosses the Rio Vilcanota (often referred to as the Urubamba River) before climbing steeply up from the Rio Cusichaca to a small local village.

• Top things to see in the Sacred Valley
• Paragliding in Cusco
• Things to do and see in Cusco

On the other side of the village, you will see an Inca fort called Huillca Raccay. This was built as a strategic look-out point into the Urubamba valley and was likely used to control the Cusichaca valley.

You will also be able to see below you, on the other side of the river. From here, there is another impressive Inca site called Patallaqta.

Patallaqta was discovered by  Hiram Bingham in 1911, on the same expedition when he discovered Machu Picchu. It is an extensive Inca ruin that is thought to have been an agricultural settlement used to grow and supply food for the inhabitants of Machu Picchu.

Llactapata, an impressive Inca ruin discovered by Hiram Bingham in 1911.

The route continues for another 7-8km (4-5 mi) along a series of gradual undulations to the small village of Wayllabamba (sometimes spelled Wayllapampa), which means ‘grassy plain’ in Quechua, (3,000m / 9,842 ft).

You will most likely camp here from the night. However, some trekking companies continue a little further on to Inca trail campsites near Ayapata (3,300m / 10,827 ft).

Please Note: Wayllabamba is the point at which trekkers on the Salkantay / Inca Trail Combo trek join the Inca Trail. Pack animals are allowed up to this spot on the trail before porters carry on for the rest of the way up.

Day 2: Wayllabamba – Llulluchapampa – Warmiwanusca – Pacamayo

You will be waking up early for breakfast and to prepare for the toughest trekking day. Day 2 is similar in trekking distance to Day 1 which is about 11km (6.83 mi) but involves going up and over the Warmiwanusca Pass (aka Dead Women’s Pass), a 4,200m (13,779 ft) traverse.

The beginning of the trek is straightforward. After your first hour, you will reach a bridge that crosses the Huayruro river. Here, you will find a campsite which has toilets. If you feel the call of nature in the morning, it might be best to hold it in until you reach this point.

Fast Fact: 'Huayruro' refers to a small tree that has red and black seeds. You will commonly see these colours on the ponchos of porters from Ollantaytambo. For this reason, porters from this area are often called Huayruros.

From here, the trail begins to steepen. It winds its way through cloud forest terrain and after nearly hours of hiking, eventually reaches the small village of Llulluchapampa (3,800m / 12,460 ft).

After this juncture, you will trek another 1.5-2 hours to reach the top of Warmiwanusca Pass (aka Abra de Huarmihuañusca or ‘Dead Woman’s Pass). This notorious pass is situated at 4,200m (13,779 ft).

The route up can be hot and intense if the sun is out (wear sunscreen), or cold and cloudy and foggy with icy winds. Be prepared for all conditions by wearing multi-layered clothing.

The view from Dead Woman's Pass (4,200m) on the Inca Trail.

Now, you can celebrate your successful climb to the highest point of the Classic Inca Trail. After catching your breath for a few minutes, you will descend for about 2km (1.2 mi) on a steep trail to the campsite for that night. This camp is located at Pacaymayu (3,580m / 11,700 ft). You will be glad to know that there are toilet facilities here.

Please Note:  Dead Women’s Pass is named as such not because women died on the pass but rather for its shape. When viewed from the descending valley, the mountain slope resembles a supine woman.

Day 3: Pacamayu – Runkurakay – Sayacmarca – Phuyupatamarca – Winay Wayna

Day 3 is another challenging day that covers about 16km (9.94 mi) and traverses two small passes.

The day begins with an hour-long trek up to the ruins at Runkurakay (3,680m / 12,073 ft). This Inca site is believed to have been used as a watchtower over the Pacaymayu valley.

After a second hour’s trekking, you will reach the Runkurakay Pass (aka Abra de Runkuracay). This pass is the second of the Classic Inca Trails major passes. It has a maximum altitude of 4,000m / 13,123 ft. From here, you will be walking on beautifully paved pathways and stone staircases. These structures are still intact from the days of the Incas.

The first staircase down from Runkurakay Pass is relatively steep, so take care with your footing. You will reach the Sayacmarca ruins (3,650m / 12,000 ft) an hour or so after the second pass.

The purpose of Sayacmarca is still unknown but the site’s name means ‘Inaccessible Town’. This accurately describes its well-protected position at the foot of three steep cliffs. The main feature of these ruins is the beautiful stone staircase.

From here, the trail passes through an original Inca tunnel before climbing up to Phuyupatamarca, the third and final pass at 3,680m (12,073 ft). On a clear day, you will be presented with fantastic views of Salkantay Mountain (6,217m / 20,397 ft) in the south and Mount Veronica (5,860m / 19,226 ft) to the North.

Phuyupatamarca or Puyupatamarca is also known as 'La Ciudad entre la Niebla' ('The City Above the Clouds').

Just after the pass, you will reach Phuyupatamarca, one of the most impressive Incan sites on the trail (bar Machu Picchu). Phuyupatamarca or Puyupatamarca is also known as ‘La Ciudad entre la Niebla’ (‘The City Above the Clouds’). An apt description for a place 3,680m (12,073 ft) above sea level.

The site is accessed via a steep path that passes 5 original Incan baths. These may have been used for spiritual or ritual reasons.

Leaving Phuyupatamarca, you will encounter a staircase of 1,000 steps. Prepare your knees (and your mind) for a tough descent. Go slowly and make sure of your footing.

Wiñay Wayna, an Incan site near the final campsite of the same name, is located on the Inca Trail.

After 2-3 hours of trekking through the cloud forest, you will reach the campsite at Winay Huayna (which is the Quechua name for ‘Forever Young’).

Just south of the campsite are the ruins of Winay Huayna, situated at 2,650m / 8,694 ft. The area was likely used as a final resting spot before reaching Machu Picchu. The site has a number of Incan baths and were likely used in ritual cleansings in preparation for arrivals at Machu Picchu.

The view of Machu Picchu from Inti Punku (the Gate of the Sun).

Day 4: Winay Wayna – Inti Punku – Machu Picchu – Aguas Calientes – Ollantaytambo – Cusco

From Winay Huayna, you will awake early (around 04:30) to have breakfast and start the 1.5-hour trek to Inti Punku (the Sun Gate), situated at 2,750m / 8,956 ft.

The initial part of this trek may happen before sunrise. In this case, you might need to use a head-torch (which you can find more details about on our Inca trail packing list ). Although, most operators only hit the trail around 05:30 when dawn breaks. The early departure is on account of trying to catch the sunrise over Machu Picchu. The first rays shine through between 06:30 and 07:00.

The trail from Winay Huayna runs through a cloud-forested contour path. After the forest, you will reach about 50 steep flights of stone stairs to Inti Punku.

At the top of the staircase, you will be presented with an unforgettable view as the famous Inca site of Machu Picchu is revealed through the Sun Gate.

You will get 30-40 minutes to soak in these first views of Machu Picchu from Inti Punku. Then, you will descend down a gradual path into the Citadel. From here, you will register with the authorities and put your backpack in storage.

Most tour operators include a full 2-3 hour tour of the city before giving you free time to explore the ruins. If you still have the energy and are not afraid of heights, then I highly recommend climbing Huayna Picchu (the iconic mountain behind Machu Picchu).

Please Note:  When climbing Huayna Picchu, you will need to book your place prior to arriving at Machu Picchu. There are only 400 climbing permits a day with two departure times (07:00 and 10:00am). Like the Inca trail, it is important to book early. You can get tickets here .

After exploring Machu Picchu for a few hours, you will either need to catch a bus or walk down to Machu Picchu town (aka Aguas Calientes) in the valley below. The bus trip is usually included in your Inca trail tour price (see cost to hike the Inca trail and cheap Inca trail tours ). The walk down takes approximately 2 hours and is worth considering as it provides fantastic views of Machu Picchu’s terraces.

Most tour operators will have booked a mid-afternoon train journey for you back to Ollantaytambo, where they will also have organized a bus or private car to transport you back to Cusco. If you depart from Aguas Calientes (2,040 m / 6,693 ft) at 15:00, you will get back to Cusco around 20:00.

The view of Machu Picchu from Huayna Picchu (aka Wayna Picchu or Wayna Pikchu).

Extended / 5-Day Inca Trail

One can also do a 5D/4N Inca Trail itinerary. These packages include a night in a hotel in Aguas Calientes and an additional day at Machu Picchu.

This is ideal for those who would like to spend more time at Machu Picchu (perhaps climbing Machu Picchu Mountain or Putucusi). With the 5-day Inca Trail, you will also have the opportunity to visit the hot springs at Aguas Calientes.

Alison Macallister

With a degree in Nature Conservation and experience working with wildlife including the Big 5, Alison works as a guide for a 5-star reserve. She enjoys sharing her passion for all things nature-related. She enjoys hiking, horseriding, 4x4 driving and kayaking.

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Alison, Your description of the Inca Trail is the most detailed and exciting one that I have read so far. I'm thoroughly impressed with your knowledge, training and passion for Nature Conservation. I also appreciate your maps and love your photographs.

Thank you so very much! Nancy Levyssohn [email protected]

Hi Nancy, thank you for those kind words, you’ve made my day! Glad that you have found this article useful.

Allison, thank you for this great break down!! We are retired military in our late 50s, but in great shape and have hiked in the Rockies and Sierras. This hike is one of our top bucket list items! We now know we want to look for a 5 day trip to enjoy the hot springs and extra day and that we have to reserve for the extra permit to do the hike up to the Mt over Machu Picchu. Now we just have to find a trip that fits our budget! Are there affordable air Bnb options for an additional night before the bike in Cuzco?

Hi Rob n Lisa, yes, there are tonnes of accommodation options in Cusco. AirBnB’s aren’t great in Cusco, you’re better offer searching for a hotel. Here are some recommendations: https://www.machupicchutrek.net/best-hotels-in-cusco-peru/ . In terms of a local trek operator, I recommend checking out Skyhook: https://www.skyhookadventure.com/go/machu-picchu

Get a quote from our recommended local trek operator in Peru

LUXURY INCA TRAIL TOURS

Luxury Inca Trail Tours

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Trek Peru’s Inca Trail: 26 miles of awe-inspiring landscapes, ancient ruins, and spiritual connection. Experience misty mountains, vibrant forests, and sunrise at Machu Picchu’s Sun Gate. Adventure and history converge in this remarkable Luxury Inca Trail , revealing the essence of the Incas and leaving an indelible impression.

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Embark on the Glamping Inca Trail to Machu Picchu—a transformative journey where opulence meets ancient wonders. Indulge in exquisite accommodations, gourmet cuisine, and personalized service along the legendary trail. Experience breathtaking landscapes, captivating ruins, and the ultimate comfort. Unveil the secrets of the Incas with a touch of lavishness on this unforgettable adventure.

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Our Inca Trail tours promise breathtaking landscapes, deluxe accommodations, personalized service, and an unforgettable journey through ancient ruins.

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The Inca Trail is one of the most popular hiking trails in the world and for good reason. It is a challenging but rewarding trek that takes hikers through some of the most stunning scenery in Peru. If you are looking for a refined luxury trekking for a  honeymoon at the Inca T r ail , anniversary, birthday trip, or simply a vacation adventure, we have the best available option for you.

What is a luxury Inca Trail tour?

A luxury Inca Trail tour is a guided tour that takes hikers along the Trail to Machu Picchu. These tours typically offer several amenities that are not available on standard Inca Trail treks, such as private tents, gourmet meals, and porters to carry gear.

Why should you take a Inca Trail glamping tour?

There are many reasons why you should consider taking a Inca Trail high-end tour. Here are a few of the most important:

• Peace of mind:  When you take a  luxury Inca Trail tour , you can relax and enjoy the hike knowing that all the logistics are taken care of for you. This includes transportation to and from the trail, accommodation, meals, guides, porters, and entrance fees.
• Private Trek:  Glamping Inca Trail tours typically is offered in private, which means that you will have more opportunities to interact with your guide and camping team. This can make the experience more enjoyable and memorable.
• Comfort Camping:   Inca Trail d eluxe  tours offer a number of amenities  that make the hike more comfortable, such as private tents, and hot showers. This means that you can focus on enjoying the scenery and the hike without having to worry about the little things.
• Curated Experience:  Inca Trail tours are typically led by experienced guides who have a deep knowledge of the Inca Trail and Machu Picchu. This means that you will learn a lot about the history and culture of the region during your hike. Conclusion

If you are looking for a luxurious and unforgettable experience, then a luxury Inca Trail to Machu Picchu is the perfect option for you. Contact us today to book your tour!

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Essential Tips for Hiking the Inca Trail: What You Need to Know

Luxury Inca Trail Facts: Everything You Need to Know

Luxury inca trail hotels: the best places to stay after your trek.

After a challenging but rewarding trek on the Inca Trail, you’ll deserve to relax and pamper yourself in some luxury. And what better place to do that than in one of the many amazing hotels near Machu Picchu?

Here are a few of the best Machu Picchu hotels that combine well with a luxury Inca Trail:

• Sanctuary Lodge: This hotel is located within the Machu Picchu Historic Sanctuary, just a short walk from the ruins. It offers stunning views of Machu Picchu and the surrounding mountains.
• Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo: This hotel is located in Aguas Calientes, just a short drive from Machu Picchu. It offers beautiful gardens, an orchids garden, and a spa.
• SUMAQ Machu Picchu Hotel: This hotel is located in Aguas Calientes, just a short walk from the train station. It offers spacious rooms, a luxury spa and a restaurant with stunning views of Machu Picchu town.
• Casa del Sol Machu Picchu: This hotel is located in Aguas Calientes, just a short walk from the train station. It offers comfortable rooms.

Glamping the Inca Trail

Enhance your Luxury Inca Trail to Machu Picchu with an array of enticing amenities and services. Indulge in:

• Sumptuous Camping:  Revel in spacious bedroom tents, cozy beds, and portable bathrooms and showers.
• Excellent dining:  These hotels have restaurants that serve delicious food made with fresh, local ingredients. Some hotels even have rooftop restaurants with stunning views of Machu Picchu.
• Rejuvenating spa treatments:  These hotels have spas that offer a variety of treatments to help you relax and rejuvenate after your Inca Trail trek.
• Convenient location:  These hotels are all located within a short distance of Machu Picchu, making it easy to get to and from the ruins. In addition to these hotels, there are many other great options to choose from when planning your  post Inca Trail stay in Machu Picchu . Be sure to do your research and find the hotel that best suits your needs and budget.
• Here are some additional tips for choosing the right Machu Picchu hotel after your Inca Trail trek:
• Consider your budget.  Luxury hotels in Machu Picchu can be expensive, so be sure to set a budget before you start your search.
• Think about your needs.  Do you need a hotel with a spa? A restaurant with stunning views? Make a list of your must-haves before you start your search.
• Check the reviews.   Read reviews from other travelers  to get an idea of what to expect from each hotel. Book early.  Popular hotels in Machu Picchu can fill up quickly, so be sure to book your stay well in advance.

A Culinary Journey on Luxury Inca Trail Tours: Savoring the Finest Meals on Your Trek to Machu Picchu

When embarking on a once-in-a-lifetime adventure like the Luxury Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, you expect nothing short of the extraordinary. While the breathtaking landscapes and ancient ruins are the primary draws of this iconic trek, the culinary experience should not be underestimated. Luxury Inca Trail Tours offer not only awe-inspiring natural beauty but also gourmet meals that will tantalize your taste buds. In this article, we’ll delve into the delectable cuisine you can expect on your journey, all while keeping your taste buds and the Luxury Inca Trail Tours in mind.

• The Art of Culinary Excellence

Luxury Inca Trail Tours are designed to provide travelers with the ultimate comfort and experience, and this extends to the dining table. Expert chefs accompany these tours, creating a fusion of traditional Peruvian flavors with contemporary gourmet flair. This ensures that every meal you enjoy during your trek is a gastronomic masterpiece.

• Breakfast: Fuel for the Journey

Your day begins with a sumptuous breakfast, fueling you for the challenging yet rewarding trails that lie ahead. The breakfast spread typically includes fresh fruits, cereals, yogurt, and a selection of bread and pastries. But the star of the show is undoubtedly the traditional Peruvian breakfast dish, ‘Tamales.’ Made with corn masa and filled with a tantalizing mix of spices and meats, it’s a taste of Peru that will leave you craving more.

• Mid-Day Delights: The Picnic Lunch

As you hike through the picturesque landscapes of the Inca Trail, you’ll stop for a gourmet lunch. Picture yourself dining al fresco amidst the ancient ruins and lush scenery. The menu varies but often includes a variety of fresh salads, sandwiches, quiches, and local delicacies like ceviche, made with freshly caught seafood. The beauty of Luxury Inca Trail Tours lies in the flexibility to cater to your dietary preferences, ensuring everyone’s taste is satisfied.

• Afternoon Tea: A Peruvian Tradition

One of the charming traditions during your trek is the afternoon tea, inspired by the British tradition but with a Peruvian twist. Enjoy a steaming cup of coca tea, which helps with altitude acclimatization, along with a selection of snacks like freshly baked pastries or empanadas. This delightful pause is perfect for reenergizing before continuing your journey.

• Dinner: A Culinary Feast

The crowning jewel of your day is the dinner served at the luxurious campsites along the trail. These feasts are a testament to the culinary expertise that  Luxury Inca Trail Tours  are known for. You’ll savor dishes like ‘Lomo Saltado,’ a flavorful stir-fry of beef, onions, and tomatoes, or ‘Aji de Gallina,’ a creamy chicken stew infused with aji peppers. Vegetarians and vegans are equally well-catered for with options like ‘Quinoa Risotto’ or ‘Vegetable Pachamanca,’ a delightful roasted vegetable dish.

• Sweet Endings: Desserts and Beverages

No meal is complete without dessert, and Luxury Inca Trail Tours certainly excel in this department. Satisfy your sweet tooth with treats like ‘Suspiro a la Limena,’ a creamy caramel dessert, or ‘Chocolate Quinoa Cake,’ a rich indulgence made from locally sourced ingredients. You can pair your desserts with Peru’s famous Pisco Sour or opt for herbal teas, finishing your day on a sweet note.

A Feast for the Senses

Luxury Inca Trail Tours are more than just a trek; they’re a culinary journey through the heart of Peru. With each meal prepared to perfection, you’ll not only conquer challenging trails but also savor the exquisite flavors of this beautiful country. Whether you’re a seasoned foodie or simply seeking a taste of authentic Peruvian cuisine, your taste buds are in for a treat as you explore the Luxury Inca Trail to Machu Picchu . Prepare to be amazed by the awe-inspiring landscapes and your newfound appreciation for Peruvian gastronomy.

So, when you plan your Luxury Inca Trail Tours, remember that you’re not just embarking on an adventure for your eyes but a feast for your senses. From breakfast to dinner and everything in between, the culinary delights awaiting you will make your journey to Machu Picchu truly unforgettable.

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The Inca Trail

7 days, cusco to cusco.

• Full itinerary
• Tour details

We’ll admit it, no one does the Inca Trail quite like us. We combine the cultural highlights of the Sacred Valley with the challenge of one of the world’s best-known hikes. The four-day Inca Trail trek passes through a stunning combination of the region’s ruins, mountainscapes, and cloud forests. Once you catch your first glimpse of Machu Picchu in the early morning light, you’ll know it was all worthwhile. Best of all, since we run our own treks, we can ensure the fair treatment of our porters and the quality of food and equipment, so you can relax and enjoy the beauty of the region.

Cusco to Cusco

Special offers, award winning inca trail program.

Named Best Inca Trail Tour Operator by the Regional Direction of Foreign Trade and Tourism of Cusco (RDFTTC) in Peru. Your purchase of this tour helps employ over 560 local guides, porters, cooks, drivers, and office staff — connecting local communities to the global tourism chain. Learn more .

Is this tour for me?

Travel style: active.

Hiking, trekking, biking, rafting, and kayaking adventures all over the world, made for outdoor types.

Service Level: Standard

Comfortable tourist-class accommodations with character; mix of public and private transport.

Physical Rating: 4 - Demanding

Some high-altitude hikes or more strenuous activities, but accessible to most healthy travellers.

Trip Type: Small Group

Small group experience; Max 16, Avg 12

Age requirement: 12+

All travellers under age 18 must be accompanied by an adult.

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Before booking, use our handy entry requirements tool so you know which documents you need to enter and travel through the countries on your trip.

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More from The Inca Trail

Places visited

• Machu Picchu

Day 1 Cusco

Arrive at any time.

Day 2 Cusco/Ollantaytambo

Enjoy a full-day guided tour of the Sacred Valley. Stop at the G Adventures-supported women's weaving co-op before visiting a local pottery making community. Break for lunch at the G Adventures-supported Parwa Community Restaurant in Huchuy Qosco. After lunch, opt to head out on a hike to the Ollantaytambo storehouses and look out over the ruins. Or, wander around the cobblestone streets and visit a local Chicheria (corn beer bar).

Exclusive Inclusions:

Meals included:, day 3 inca trail.

Depart Ollantaytambo by van to km 82 where the Inca Trail begins. Ease into the adventure with a straightforward day of hiking the meandering streams, stunning Andean scenery, and ancient Incan ruins.

Day 4 Inca Trail

Start early to climb the long steep path to Warmiwañusca, better known as Dead Woman’s Pass. This is the highest point of the trek at 4,198m (13,769 ft). Most hikers reach camp by early afternoon, with ample time to rest and relax.

Day 5 Inca Trail

Cross two more passes and ruins on today's trek. The first pass is Runquraqay at 3,950m (13,113 ft) where, on a clear day, hikers can catch a glimpse of the snow-capped Cordillera Vilcabamba. Hike through the cloud forest on a gentle climb to the second pass of the day, walking through original Incan constructions. The highest point of the pass is 3,700m (12,136 ft). On a clear day, enjoy the spectacular views of the Urubamba Valley. At 3,650m (11,972 ft), reach the ruins of Phuyupatamarca, the "town above the clouds." Camp here or go another 1.5 hrs to the Wiñay Wayna ruins ("forever young") located at 2,650m (8,694 ft).

Day 6 Machu Picchu/Cusco

The final day of the hike starts pre-dawn to reach the Sun Gate before sunrise. Catch the first views of the breathtaking ruins of Machu Picchu on a clear day. Hike down for a guided tour of the ruins, before your train back towards Cusco.

Day 7 Cusco

Depart at any time.

What's Included

• Your G for Good Moment: Ccaccaccollo Community and Women's Weaving Co-op visit, Ccaccaccollo
• Your G for Good Moment: Parwa Community Restaurant the Sacred Valley, Lamay
• Your G for Good Moment: Handmade Biodegradable Soap Products
• Sacred Valley guided tour
• Pottery-making demonstration
• Inca Trail guided hike with cooks and porters (4 days)
• Guided tour of Machu Picchu
• All transport between destinations and to/from included activities

Accommodations

Hotels (3 nts), camping (3 nts).

6 breakfasts, 4 lunches, 3 dinners Allow USD115-150 for meals not included.

Transportation

Train, private van, hiking.

Staff & experts

G Adventures Representative in Cusco, specialist Inca Trail CEO (Chief Experience Officer) on hike.

Available extras  (Add these to your tour when you book)

Rainbow mountain hike - full-day trip - from $50.00.

Lookout over these colourful Andean mountains striped with maroon, turquoise, lavender, and gold. The sediment, elevation, and proximity to the ocean create a landscape that has to be seen to be believed. Get started early to drive around 2 hours to the starting point of this challenging, yet rewarding full-day hike. Reaching 5,029m (16,500 ft) this 14km hike is no walk in the park, but these unique mountains do not disappoint.

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The Inca Trail

The most famous hike in South America, the four-day Inca Trail is walked by thousands every year. Although the total distance is only about 24 miles (39km), the ancient trail laid by the Incas from the Sacred Valley to Machu Picchu winds its way up and down and around the mountains, snaking over three high Andean passes en route, which have collectively led to the route being dubbed ‘the Inca Trail.’ The views of snowy mountain peaks, distant rivers and ranges, and cloud forests flush with orchids are stupendous – and walking from one cliff-hugging pre-Columbian ruin to the next is a mystical and unforgettable experience.

Leave the planning to a local expert

Experience the real The Inca Trail. Let a local expert handle the planning for you.

Attractions

Must-see attractions.

Wiñay Wayna

An exquisite little Inca site along the Inca Trail; it's name is variously translated as ‘Forever Young,’ ‘To Plant the Earth Young’ and ‘Growing Young’ …

The Inca Trail descends to the ruin of Sayaqmarka, a tightly constructed complex perched on a small mountain spur, which offers incredible views.

Phuyupatamarka

Towards the end of the Inca Trail, you'll reach the beautiful, well-restored ruin of Phuyupatamarka (Place Above the Clouds), about 3570m (11,712ft) above…

Q'ente

Translating to the Hummingbird, this little-visited site sits just along the Inca Trail. (If you start from Km 88, turn west after crossing the river to…

Beyond Paq’amayo on the Inca Trail, at an altitude of about 3600m, the trail crosses the river over a small footbridge and climbs toward Runkurakay; at…

A spectacular terraced ruin along the Inca Trail, best visited on the day you arrive to Wiñay Wayna: consider coordinating it with your guide if you are…

Inca Tunnel

The Inca Trail leads across an Inca causeway and up a gentle climb through some beautiful cloud forest and this Inca tunnel carved from the rock.

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The Best Inca Trail Tour Operators in Peru

TripSavvy / Chris VR 

If you are beginning your search for an Inca Trail tour operator, this list is a good place to start. There are more than 150 licensed Inca Trail operators in Peru with new agencies springing up each year. This list includes some of the most well-established and reputable Peru-based companies. The agencies featured here also offer alternative treks to Machu Picchu as well as other treks and tours in the Sacred Valley.

The list takes a variety of recommendations into account including Machu Picchu tour companies that are featured regularly in the latest Peru travel guidebooks, review sites, travel forums, as well as some personal insight.

Explorandes

Since its foundation in 1975, Explorandes has received plaudits for both its commitment to responsible tourism as a Rainforest Alliance-certified tour operator and certification for its environmental management system. 

Explorandes runs tours and treks throughout much of Peru including private departures and tailor-made tours. Its five-day/four-night Inca Trail trek departs on Sundays and Wednesdays. Although the trek can be done in four days, the tour company insists its pacing makes for a more enjoyable, less crowded trip.

Valencia Travel Cusco

Valencia Travel Cusco focuses on its quality of service, customized attention, and special deals, with treks and tours suited to both young adventure travelers and potentially less mobile baby boomers.

The trek chefs are miracle workers, the Quechua-speaking porters are well cared for, and the guides are dedicated and knowledgeable. Reassurance is a part of the package as each staff member from porters to guides to senior management has a genuine desire to see every trekker realize his or her dream of reaching Machu Picchu. You can choose from two-day to five-day Inca Trail treks.

Peru Treks specializes in the classic four-day/three-night Inca Trail trek to Machu Picchu, a focus that has made it a consistently recommended operator. As well as frequent appearances in various Peru travel guides, the company has also received accolades from Peru’s Ministry of Tourism and honorable mentions in most major guides like Lonely Planet and Moon Handbooks. Peru Treks prides itself on porter welfare (all 250 of them), it's 20 bilingual Peruvian guides, and a large percentage of the profits made by Peru Treks goes toward community projects like schools for the local population.

Andina Travel

In 2001, a Cusco native with 20 years of experience in adventure tourism in Peru joined forces with his North American business partner to found Andina Travel. The company has been an authorized Inca Trail operator since 2002, while also running numerous alternative treks and tours to Machu Picchu, the Sacred Valley, and other destinations throughout Peru.

Andina Travel offers a two-day, four-day, and five-day trek on the Inca Trail. Also, the tour operator has “non-trekking soft adventures” through Cusco , the Sacred Valley, and on to Machu Picchu. Inca Trail prices are slightly higher than average, but Andina takes good care of its trekkers, as well as its guides and porters.

United Mice

Founded in 1987, United Mice has built a strong reputation over the years for trekking, horse riding, rafting, and jungle trips in southeastern Peru. You can expect plenty of local knowledge from the porters and guides, as well as no-nonsense trekking with good food and equipment. The company also donates one percent of its profits to a foundation helping street children in Cusco.

Llama Path is one of the later additions to the Cusco circuit, but the agency has built a big reputation since its foundation in 2004. It offers group and private treks to Machu Picchu, including a variety of Inca Trail alternatives. Groups contain a maximum of 16 people, but the average group size (according to the Llama Path website) is from eight to 10 people. Llama Path offers two- to five-day Inca Trail tours.

Enigma Adventure

Founded in Cusco in 2002, Enigma Adventure is an adventure travel and trekking specialist with one foot placed firmly in the luxury market. It's classic Inca Trail to Machu Picchu (four day/three night) is more expensive than many, but clients can expect a highly personalized experience, with a maximum of 12 people in each group (no minimum) and two guides for groups of more than eight people. Enigma also prides itself on the treatment of its guides and porters, as well as the quality of its food.

Q'ente has been operating in the Peruvian Andes since 1995, primarily as an adventure tour and trekking company. Trekkers can choose from five different Inca Trail excursions ranging from a short two-day/one- night option to the seven-day Salkantay Inca Trail. Q'ente also offers a wide range of alternative routes to Machu Picchu, as well as five- to 20-day package tours. Inca Trail group sizes range from two to 16 people.

Amazonas Explorer

With its five-day Inca Trail departures starting at over $1,600, Amazonas Explorer can put quite a dent in your travel budget . But if you’re looking for luxury, you’ll probably like the agency’s attitude, “We believe in the finer things in life and as our guests, we want your time with us to be as luxurious, relaxing, and enjoyable as possible.”

The five-day duration lends itself to a more relaxed trekking experience (many Inca Trail treks last for four days), while also giving you more time to explore Machu Picchu on the final day. Price includes a return from Machu Picchu to Cusco via the luxurious Vistadome train and private bus.

Do not let the no-frills website put you off; SAS Travel is a solid option with almost two decades of experience leading tours and treks in Cusco and Peru. The company prides itself on its responsible outlook, including a dedicated “leave no trace” tourism work ethic and concern for porter welfare.

SAS also has a reputation for providing its trekkers with above average food. Trek prices for the standard four-day/three-night Inca Trail trek are competitive with reliable daily departures.

More Inca Trail Companies to Consider

As noted earlier, there are plenty of Inca Trail operators out there, some good, some bad, some in-between. Here are some more companies with a generally positive reputation:

• Alpaca Expeditions
• Chaska Tours
• Culturas Peru
• Machete Tours
• Naty's Travel
• Peruvian Odyssey (luxury)
• Sky Viajes Y Turismo
• Sun Gate Tours
• X-Treme Tourbulencia

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Best Peru Tours, Inca Trail, Machu Picchu Tours

Inca trail 4 days, machu picchu tours, rainbow mountain tours, salkantay treks to machupicchu, inca trail machu picchu - explore adventures peru.

Inca Trail Explore offer Machu Picchu tours and Machu Picchu treks, Explore the Path of the Inca and get more from your authentic Peru vacations, complete tours in Cusco Peru, cultural and nature tours inluded the Amazon Rainforest

Classic Inca Trail 4 days

The iconic Inca Trail to Machu Picchu is the most sought out hike in South America. This centuries-old trail is rooted in Inca heritage

• Short Inca Trail 2 days

short Inca Trail 2 days to MachuPicchu;This hike gives one a taste of the Inca Trail without days of hiking and camping.

Machu Pichu Tours

Private tour to Machu picchu with Explore Adventures ..Machu Picchu Day Trip program is designed for executives and people

Rainbow Mountain Tours

Rainbow Mountain tour and Short Inca Trail. Journey through an undiscovered land of wild desert landscapes,

Best Machu Picchu Hiking Tour

10% off - all inclusive, inca trail to machu picchu 04 days, from $750 usd, hiking expeditions to machu picchu.

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Wonderful trek! The guide, Ruben, was great - his history lessons at the Inca sites were very informative and his great sense of humor really brought the group together. If you’re looking for the finishing touches, high quality guides, and overall safety, I highly recommend booking through Explore Adventures Peru. They are the most well trusted ...

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Home » South America » Peru » The ULTIMATE Guide to Hiking the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu

The ULTIMATE Guide to Hiking the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu

For the past 5 years, I have had the goal of visiting each of the 7 Wonders of the world. Traveling to Peru and seeing Machu Picchu was one of them.

It’s also the place I first met my wife in person for the first time. Sounds creepy, but it really isn’t.

Before leaving, I had heard horror stories about the difficulty of the hiking the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu. I made sure to mentally prepare our small team of six for the adventure and kept up a weekly progress report of how everyone was training.

It wasn’t all fun and games. I’m here to give you the lowdown on the good and the bad and how to make sure your next trip to Machu Picchu and the Inca Trail is a success. Here you will get all the inside information on the hike from someone who has spent a lot of time researching it and completed it firsthand.

I’ve hiked some of the best national parks in the U.S. and this Inca Trail hike is still my favorite in terms of scenery and complete awesomeness. Alright, let’s get to the details.

Hiking the Classic Inca Trail to Machu Picchu

Day-by-day itinerary for trekking the inca trail (4 days/3 nights), finding the best inca trail tour operator, the best time to visit machu picchu, what to bring on the inca trail, ok, now you’re ready to hike the inca trail to machu picchu.

The Classic 4-day Inca Trail hike to Machu Picchu is arguably the most famous trail in all of South America . The Inca Trail’s length is 26 miles (42 kilometers) of pure Peruvian power that connects several Incan archaeological sites: Runcuracay , Sayacmarca , Phuyuptamarca , Wiñaywayna , and of course none other than the magnificent Machu Picchu ruins!

So what’s the Inca Trail hike’s difficulty like? Well, the elevation of the Inca Trail is over 13,000 feet so if you have altitude problems make sure to think twice before committing. This ain’t no walk in the park unless you like your walk in the parks accompanied by blood-tingling cliff-drops and ruins of ancient South American empires.

Protip:  That’s exactly how I like my walks in the park. 😉

If it wasn’t for an adventurous Yale scholar in 1913, Hiram Bingham, we might not have known of the existence of this modern-day gem. When the Incans were conquered by the Spanish in the 1500’s , they fled the jungle and Machu Picchu went hidden for hundreds of years.

The legendary hike culminates at the Puerta de Sol (Sun Gate) where you overlook the magnificent ruins below and the iconic Huayna Picchu mountain to the side. Along the hike, at the epicenter of the old Incan Empire, you will experience majestic mountains, cloud forests, a subtropical jungle, and a little bit of wildlife.

To help you prepare to go on one of the best hikes in the world , we have summarized everything you need to know with a day-by-day itinerary, picking a tour operator, and what to bring with you. Everything is set for you to walk the Inca Trail.

The exact itinerary for the hike may differ between various Inca Trail tour operators, but almost all groups follow a similar itinerary and have set times to leave to avoid overcrowding. Even with daily tourism limits, there are still many, many tour groups and you will constantly be surrounded by other hikers, guides, and porters throughout the 4 days.

If you are looking for a more personal, private outdoor experience, I recommend you pick a less prevalent adventure as there are many alternative Inca sites to choose from around the Cusco area.

Alright, now for the daily itinerary.

Day 1 – Starting the Inca Trail Hike

13 km (8 miles), 5-7 hours, to huayllabamba.

Day one eases you into the action. It’s a nice starter to a much more difficult day ahead.

After taking transport from nearby Cusco, you meet your team and porters.  The first day is a relatively easy hike and goes past the ruins of Patallaqta , which means “town on a hillside” in the Incan language of Quechua.

You will spend the night at Huayllabamba , the only inhabited town on the trek.

Day 1 is relatively easy as there isn’t much elevation gain and your legs are fresh and you feel like you can take on anything.

Then, day 2 comes.

Day 2 – A Mishap on the Trail

11 km (7 miles), 7-10 hours, from huayllabamba to pacaymayu.

Day 2 is considerably more difficult due to the severe elevation gain and altitude of the Inca Trail. If you’re fit enough to handle the constant incline, there is a good chance the high altitude will zap your energy and perhaps give you dizziness.

It’s the hardest day of the trek, with an ascent of 1,200 meters and a challenging descent to the bottom campsite. This day offers a great feeling of achievement when you get to Dead Woman’s Pass which is named after the resemblance of the mountain’s shadow of a woman’s head.

This section of the Inca Trail hike provides a fantastic perspective of the gorgeous Peruvian countryside but is also very cold due to the high altitude. When you get to the top, you can take pictures in the snow to display your fortitude.

If you aren’t in tip-top shape, this day will either make you or break you. Unfortunately, this is the day that things went south for a couple of members of our team. One of the girls on our team got a busted knee on the descent after Dead Woman’s Pass – not good.

We were literally in the middle of the Peruvian jungle with no easy way of evacuating her. Despite her eagerness to carry on, she could barely hobble her way forward without needing assistance.

Thankfully, the Peruvians are a resourceful people and will go leaps and bounds to make a person in need is helped. A few of the porters and our guide took turns carrying our friend throughout the remaining two and a half days of the hike.

I can hardly carry my petite wife for more than 20 seconds yet somehow our porters and guide managed for hours on end. She did walk sparingly, but for the most part, was carried for a good portion of the time.

In addition to all the equipment, pots and pans, food, and trash that they had to carry, they also now had a grown adult on their backs.

It was nothing short of remarkable.

Day 3: The Lead-Up to the Final Boss of the Inca Trail

16 km (10 miles), 10 hours, from pacaymayu to wiñaywayna.

Day 3 of the hike to Machu Picchu is no slouch and for most, it’s the day that the nagging soreness reminds you that you are human. It consists of a 1500-meter descent into the subtropical cloud forests and through the Amazon basin. The soreness really gets at you as you make your way down the mountainside.

You will pass several unforgettable Incan sites like two Incan tunnels that are carved right out of the mountainside. Throughout day 3 you’ll also see several mini Machu Picchu-like ruins spread throughout the trail. It’s a nice build-up to the granddaddy of them all that follows on day 4.

Rest easy once you get to the campsite because the next day is likely to be the most unforgettable experience of your hiking existence (it was for me).

Day 4: Hiking to Machu Picchu’s Glory

5 km (3 miles), 2-3 hours, from wiñaywayna to machu picchu and return to cusco.

On the last day, you will wake up before dawn at an absurdly early hour (our wake up call was 3 A.M.) in order to reach the Sun Gate overlooking Machu Picchu just in time for sunrise.

It probably would have been glorious to see. However, as mentioned earlier, a couple of our team members were really hurting by day 4 so it made hiking to the Sun Gate longer than anticipated and we certainly didn’t see the sun come up.

I wouldn’t be surprised if we were the last group to make it into the historic site. Once you arrive, you will then have half a day to explore the ruins of Machu Picchu before heading back to Cusco by train. Personally, I could have spent the whole day there just in awe of the ruins.

Unlike most archaeological wonders, Peru allows visitors to actually go in and around the beautiful ruins and see firsthand the inside of the structures and the once magnificent buildings. I think doing the gruelling 4-day hike on the Inca Trail really gave us a greater appreciation for the ruins once we got there.

I’m sure you hear this often, but to be honest, it really is nothing like being there in person and seeing it up close and personal. Pictures just don’t do it justice. You can easily spend hours on end walking up and around the magnificent ruins.

Once the day has come to an end, you’ll take a bus down to Aguas Calientes where you will take a train back to Ollantaytambo before arriving back in Cusco by bus or car.

If you have the time to take a dip in the hot springs I recommend you do so before grabbing the train out.

Alright, let’s talk logistics.

First, make sure to book your tour on the Inca Trail well in advance as the tours sell out quickly and you can only go with a tour group or private certified guide. Yes, sadly the answer to the question “Can you hike the Inca Trail without a guide?”  is a big fat depressing  no.

The most visitors the park allows is 500 a day and that includes guides and porters which make up over half that number. This may not sound like a lot, but it really is when you think about the fact that everyone follows the same narrow trails to Machu Picchu.

We had to book the tour about 6 months in advance to reserve a spot. Keep that in mind as you will need good long-range planning to make sure your spot is reserved.

Tours to Machu Picchu normally arrange groups of eight to sixteen people, and you will hike with people from all around the world. You can arrange a private tour, but this can be considerably more expensive with a smaller group.

So what are the Inca Trail prices like?

We managed with a group of six (not including the guide, porters, and cook). From what I have seen, the price is around $500-$700 USD per person . We paid at the lower end as my wife is Colombian and we found a tour operator that catered more to the Spanish speaking South American clientele.

If the tour operator charges much less, they are probably not paying their porters fair wages. It is best to book directly through a local tour operator instead of a foreign travel agency since the travel agencies may charge you double the price.

Included in the price is transport to the start of the trail, a bilingual guide, entrance fees to the Inca Trail and Machu Picchu, tents, all meals and a cook, porters, emergency first aid, oxygen, and return transport back to Cusco.

The food was fantastic throughout the trip. I really have no idea how they made such incredible meals when they were literally in the middle of the jungle.

Trust me, once you see all that is included and all the work that the porters and tour guide do, you will realize it is well worth every penny paid. If you need to pay for an additional porter to lighten your load and carry some of your things, you can do that for around $50-$100 USD.

Each porter should be tipped around 30-40 soles (about $10-$15) for the entire group. Keep in mind, regardless of how much or how little you pay for your tour, the vast majority of that money does not go to the guys that do the heavy lifting. Make sure to tip your team well as they deserve it and likely live off of those tips.

Finally, when booking your tour for the Inca Trail, make sure that the tour operator is selling you the right trek and not misleading you with a similar sounding hike. We recommend going with Cachi Life as they are doing really great work in Peru that goes well beyond the Inca Trail hike. They’re easily my picj for the best Inca Trail tour.

The Inca Trail to Machu Picchu can be hiked all year round, except for February when the trail is closed for maintenance.

The best time to hike the Inca Trail is May through September when there is less rain and the temperatures are slightly cooler. We went in July and the temperatures were great with a bit of rain on day 2. It was cool enough in the evening to get a good night’s sleep without freezing.

The high season is June to August , but again make sure to book at least five to seven months in advance regardless of when you decide to travel.

Rain is likely during April and October and almost guaranteed between November and March making them a much less suitable time to walk to Machu Picchu… the wet llamas are cute though!

First up, here’s your beginner’s guide to hiking . That’s an excellent jumping-off point for creating your Inca Trail packing list. All the same, here’s some must-bring packing for the Inca Trail:

• Clothes – Definitely make sure to bring layers of clothing and know your layering system! It can be hot during the day and chilly at night. Dead Woman’s Pass was very cold as we were over 13,000 feet in elevation.
• A Sleeping System – This stuff can be rented or part of your tour but it’s always good to travel with your own, especially if you’re backpacking in Peru . A backpacking tent , sleeping bag , and sleeping pad are all smart investments for any traveler. A snuggly nights sleep in the heights of the Andes awaits!
• Waterproof Clothes – If you are going during the rainy season, you should also bring rainproof clothes and equipment. You’ll be happy you packed that waterproof jacket when it starts pissing freezing rain at 13,000 feet!
• Trekking Poles It’s helpful to have trekking poles for the downward hikes on the Inca Trail. Your knees will thank you later.
• Hiking Boots – Boots for hiking … because you’re hiking… kinda logical, yeah?
• A Hiking Backpack –  backpack for hiking … see above.
• Water Purification Tablets –  Na, jokes! You don’t need them. Get a Grayl Geopress instead and you’ll never need them again. This thing is a game changer!
• Hiking Sunglasses – Some people like a pair of hiking sunglasses and some don’t. If you’re the former, then invest in a good pair.

Finally, remember to pack light! You’ll have to carry your pack for 4 days so only take the lightweight essentials. Every extra pound matters!

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Wait, you’re not quite ready to hike the Inca Trail! Get insured first!

Because duh! Remember the part where you’re trekking through mountains at 13,000 feet? Remember the part where my companion busted her knee and had to be carried by porters – goddamn hiking in style! Get insured.

I have been using World Nomads for some time now and made a few claims over the years. They’re easy to use, professional and relatively affordable. They may also let you buy or extend a policy once you’ve started your trip and are already abroad which is super handy.If there’s one insurance company I trust, it’s World Nomads.

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SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

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The 4-Day Inca Trail hike to Machu Picchu is one of the magnificent hikes I have ever done. I’ve hiked all over the USA and other parts of the world but nothing has ever affected me in such a way as the Inca Trail did.

We have summarized everything you need to know before embarking on this incredible journey. If you do decide to go to Peru for the hike or just to see Machu Picchu, I recommend you brush up on some basic Spanish travel phrases .

It’s a somewhat strenuous 4 days so it’s important to consider what you are getting yourself into before leaving for the trip. If you are injury-prone or have had issues in the past think twice before committing to the full hike. Remember, you can always pay for an extra porter ahead of time if you need help carrying your things.

Get used to walking long distances before embarking. The Inca Trail trek is over 3,000 meters in altitude. Altitude pills can be the difference between a great trip and a terrible one.

Plan to spend two to three days staying in Cusco acclimatizing before beginning the trek. There are amazing hostels in Cusco  that offer a comfy bed so you can start the next day well-rested and read to go. You can spend those days sightseeing in and around Cusco as there are plenty of archaeological sites like Nazca.

You would be greatly remiss if you do not visit Machu Picchu at some point in your life. The intricate detail that the Incans put into each and every stone structure is mesmerizing. In all my experiences traveling and adventuring, the hike to Machu Picchu along the Inca Trail still stands as my most spectacular.

What can I say? It’s a damn good journey!

And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links . That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!

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21 Comments

You tipped the porters $15 for 6 people for a 4 day trek after they literally carried one of your friends??? That’s messed up.

LOooove what you do and how you present it. Can you make another recommendation for Peru tours as CachiLife appears to be out of business. We like the idea of our dollars going as muchas possible to locals. Thanks

I would suggest getting out there and booking with local guides, business, accommodation etc directly. Visit local shops and eateries. That way you will be able to spread your dollars round and ensure as much of it as possible goes directly to real locals.

Thank you for your detailed daily itinerary. I am homeschooling my kids during the Covid pandemic and we are doing a unit on the Pre-Columbian cultures in South America. So I decided to make our own version of the “Oregon Trail,” and we’re gonna hike to Machu Picchu! Your guide was invaluable in creating the game and scenarios we might encounter, broken knee and all! I have always wanted to go, but this is probably the best I’ll get to do. We are also using an app that lets you hike all over the world, virtually, and then gives you a medal when you finish. We get to look at Google street view/hike view as we go, so hopefully that motivates my kids to get moving and see the sights on the trail! I’ll let you know how the game goes. Thank you so much!

Thanks for the post Nate. As a former pro photographer, this hike interests me greatly.

Not sure if I can make it though. Back in the day, I hiked a 14,000 ft mountain in CO, and had some difficulty in the last part due to a lack of preparation. Now, 10 years older, and having neuropathy in my feet and legs, I’d really like to make this hike, but with numb feet, may have to pass. Would check with my physical therapist for extra advice.

Sounds like I need to find an option. Ideas?

I believe you can get a bus to the site from a near by town and return the same day, this would mean you could avoid the walk in but still visit the site.

Thanks for all the details you provided. My hubby and I along with some family/friends are scheduled for the hike this coming November. I’m sad that’s the rainy season. I didn’t pick the time though. Looks like I need to do some physical training before November!

Awesome guide very informative keeps writing. Thanks for sharing!!

Glad you found it useful Mark!

Very detailed and helpful review of your trip to Peru! Enjoyed reading without getting bored in a bit. Simple, straight and full of useful info. Great job guys! Carry on travelling and sharing! ?

Nate, Who was your guide I need recommendations.

Tons of great things to do around Cuzco. I’d check out Nazca if you get a chance.

This photo is amazing! Well from the photograph it pretty clean that you are very good photographer. Thanks for sharing this lovely travel experience with us I went to Peru in spring of 2012 and the crown jewel of any Peruvian getaway is Machu Picchu. We also were able to snap a few pics with limited people since we waited out a rain storm. But we were treated to the clouds climbing up Machu Picchu which was beautiful! ?

Thank you George! Glad you found Machu Picchu to be just as spectactular as we did.

This place is very beautiful and such a great piece of art. Machu picchu can amaze every traveler. This place is look like a puzzle game where one can enjoy hide and seek game like I did .:)

I am hiking up to Machu Picchu next month and I can’t wait. I am spending a few days in Cusco before. Any tips or ideas for other fun things to do around there?

Thanks for your post Nate.T he Inca Trail is an unforgettable experience that I did last year. It is not only the trek and the landscapes that surround the Inca Trail, but the spectacular arrival to Machu Picchu. It is an emotional mixture between having fulfilled the objective of concluding the walk and the spiritual recharge offered by the place. Machu Picchu is a magical place definitely, the tiredness, the pain of muscles and bones disappear when you walk between its streets and historical places. In addition to doing the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu for 4 days, I stayed two more days in the town of Machu Picchu, the next day I was able to visit Machu Picchu again and go up to Huaynapicchu, a completely different view of Machu Picchu but from the heaven. It is important to visit during the dry season, they told me that the views are different when there is rain and sometimes it is not so spectacular.

I recommend to Elvis from Kenko: https://www.kenkoadventures.com/inca-trail-machu-picchu Regards! Robert

This is one of the most detailed and exceptional guides for hiking the Inca trail, Nate! I love your day by day itinerary which will definitely come in handy. Well done!

Thanks so much Agness, glad you found the itinerary useful!

Thank you so much for sharing your vivid experience on the Inca trail. I have found it very useful as I plan my trip. Do you recommend a tour group?

I also heard there was a train. That sounds nice, I think I’ll take that option.

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The Inca Trail

Embark on an adventure of a lifetime and discover the hidden treasures along the iconic Inca Trail to Machu Picchu in Peru. The breathtaking Inca Trail takes you through the impressive Andean mountain range, offering stunning views and a glimpse into the rich history of the Inca empire in Peru.

With every step, you will be transported back in time, walking in the footsteps of the great Inca emperors. The Inca trail winds its way through lush tropical forests, pristine high-altitude lakes, and mysterious ruins, offering an unforgettable experience that combines breathtaking scenery with rich cultural heritage.

Do you plan to hike the Inca Trail this year? Pack your bags, lace up your hiking boots, and get ready! Remember the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu consistently rates among the best treks in the world and therefore Inca Trail permits are always high in demand. Check availability below and book on time !

Inca Trail 4 Days

The four day Inca trail brings you along ancient narrow paths deep into the Peruvian countryside and high into the Andean mountains.

Alternative Hikes

There are many great alternative hikes to Machu Picchu, such as Salkantay , Lares , Inca Jungle trek and more. Cusco is a hiking

Inca Trail: day by day

What does the Inca Trail look like? Read the day-to-day schedule including information about what yu will see along the trail

The legendary Inca Trail to the Lost City of the Incas in Peru is one of the world’s best known hiking adventures. It is a once in a life time experience with stunning views for both experienced and non-experienced hikers. After four days of hiking - from the snowcapped Andean mountains to the lush Amazon cloud forest – you will catch the first views of the breathtaking Inca Ruins Machu Picchu before sunrise. Pure Magic!

Machu Picchu Practical Information

The famous Inca citadel Machu Picchu was likely built around the year 1450, during the glory years of the Inca Empire

Machu Picchu Tickets

On this page you find the complete guide for buying Machu Picchu Tickets online, in Cusco or Aguas Calientes and information about different Machu Picchu Tickets

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Read the Inca Trail Blog full tips for planning your hike, Your stay in Peru, your visit to Cusco, to Machu Picchu And more!  

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Experiences on Classic Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, Peru!

O ver the years, whenever discussion of best hikes to do around the world: Machu Picchu name always came up! Having been used to hike wherever we like in US, deferred Machu Picchu hike due to requirement of having to go through travel agencies who in turn required permits through Peru government. After noticing many friends are in similar situation, finally brought together team of friends who committed to go and hike Classic Inca Trail to Machu Picchu. Following are my experiences/opinions/notes and may not resonate with every one requirements/experiences..etc.

Went through Alpaca Expeditions to hike Classic Inca Trail over 4 day/3 night option.

Overview of Classic Inca Trail, 4 day/3 night option from Alpaca Expeditions

Why should  one hike through Classic Inca Trail?

• Views of mountains, valleys, canyons are magnificent, spectacular, amazing! Clouds, Fog keeps rolling through all day giving many different views and photo opportunities. Cameras won’t capture beautiful views as good as one experiences live though.
• Given Inca Trail access controlled through permits and travel agencies: package includes access to porters, night time tents, food.. all of this lightens up your load to carry and provides more pleasant experience!
• 80% of Classic Inca Trail still seems intact and usable.. Essentially hiker walking through history and living through life of people in 1400s for few days.
• While Machu Picchu site very grand, spectacular: many mini Inca sites are built along Classic Inca Trail. Some accessible/visible only to hikers on day 1, day 2, day 3. By the time, we reach Machu Picchu on day 4, hiker gets feel for Inca site architecture, design, … and what to expect!
• Classic Inca Trail hike to Machu Picchu comes up and listed in best hikes in world, hikes of life time type lists!

Highlights of four day hike  on Classic Inca Trail!

Day-1 : starts with lot of pick ups from different hotels @Cusco starting as early as 4 AM. Hiking started around 9 AM. Best part of day-1 hike was river stream (soothing and pleasant) all day along the trail!

Day-2 : Toughest part of 4 days comes on day-2 with almost 3000 ft elevation gain for the day. Altitude sickness likely to show up on day-2. Weather in mountains and canyons so different and changes constantly, any photos best be taken as and when opportunities present themselves!

Day-3 : Lighter day among all 4 days where hike wraps up by lunch time and rest of time goes easy!

Day-4 : Starts at 3 AM getting ready to pack up, get ready to start hiking 5 ish when gates open up to hike towards South Gate entrance of Machu Picchu! By 9 AM, hiking group tour will reach entrance of Machu Picchu which is used by people who come by train. All four days experience up to 9 AM on day-4 not experienced/shared by anyone who visits Machu Picchu by train only!

Suggestions  for anyone going to take up Classic Inca Trail to Machu Picchu:

• Expect to start planning 3–6 months ahead in terms of getting permits, flights reservations, perform practice hikes
• Expect to have at least 3 flight segments: one flight segment from somewhere in US to southern most city inside US such as LAX, DFW, MIA… Second flight segment from border US hub to Lima, Peru & Third flight segment from Lima, Peru to Cusco, Peru which is base point for Classic Inca Trail hikers.
• Cusco, Peru city at 11,152 feet elevation: Expect altitude sickness symptoms and plan ahead for acclimatization time.

Challenges  experienced over 4 days:

• Classic Inca Trail involves dealing with lot of steps (10 to 20 inches height) going up or going down! Most of hikers not used to passing through thousands of steps in a day!! Steps combined with higher altitude + going up/down + backpack weight + live weather (humidity, wind, wetness) issues poses challenge to most hikers! Practice helps!!
• Get ready for early morning starts: some days expect to wake up 3 or 4 or 5 AM and start hiking within an hour.
• Bathroom/Restroom/Toilets: 2 out of 4 days at least usable, dependable. Remaining two days, expect facilities to be poor, unmaintained, bugs
• Expect to go without bath using water for 3 days! Even at the end of third day, expect to take bath using water from melting snow or river stream which is cold!
• Expect to operate without proper sleep on 1–2 days out of 4 days: Source of poor sleep could be possibilities of night time rain, wet floor, bugs, cold, windy, uneven surface in tent, smell in the area, worst case stomach upset keeping one awake all night, altitude sickness!
• Lot of Classic Inca Trail tour companies use same route, same campgrounds. Even 50 hikers in single file trail feels crowded and tough to take good photos without random people involved in pictures. I took up on either up front by 500 ft or be last person by 500 ft. Either approach gave challenges of walking fast when needed (which is not so fun at higher altitude when exhausted for day already)

What could have been better?

• Peru government checks passports to match with permits. Carrying passport all along hike in mountains, when rain can show up anytime, is not so comfortable to most!
• Passport/Permit matching is manual and time taking! Could be faster!!
• Inca sites do not have any descriptions/photos usually found in museums. Experience could have been better with illustrations.

Overall, memorable experience considering views of mountains, canyons, valleys, architecture and history of Inca sites, challenges of steps in hike, higher altitude, different country!! Of course, at a cost of minimum $3000 per person though!

Seen from hiking trail on day-1

5–6 AM view from day-2 campsite!

View of Salcantay mountain .. from early morning hike on day-3

One of Inca site on the way (during day-3 hike)

Mini Machu Picchu type site seen on day-3.. near Machu Picchu location…

Example of how steepness and crowds can challenge you/hiker?!

Windy road between Machu Picchu and city Aguas Calientes (for people who come by train)

Machu Picchu site (seen by 8 AM on day-4 of hike)

View of Aguas Calientes City area from Huayna Picchu mountain hike

View of Machu Picchu from mountain peak of Huayna Picchu (separate permit & hike required, steep hike with help of cables, some areas tough for people with fear of heights)

Final good feel to wrap up! View from Huayna Picchu mountain peak!

Overall not seen much litter on city streets, tourist spots: Well maintained!