The 4 Day Inca Trail to Machu Picchu is one of the most desired treks in the world because of its unparalleled ecological diversity and wealth of archaeological treasures. The Machu Picchu Historical Sanctuary covers 32,952 hectares and it is home to a network of Inca roadways, several archeological sites, 10 ecological zones (from glacial peaks to tropical forests), over 450 species of birds and 200 species of orchids, as well as the legendary city of Machu Picchu.
At the end of the trail awaits Machu Picchu Inca City, a natural world wonder and a spectacular cultural show, travel back in time to this magical place, sacred and mysterious, with its name meaning, “The Old Sacred Mountain.” Take your time exploring the majestic Machu Picchu, the Incan ruins rich in the history of its past and the thriving culture of the people who once resided there.
4200 m.s.n.m
Up to 12
Group
Trekking, self-guided
Difficult
4 days / 3 nights
Early in the morning we will pick you up at your hotel in Cusco at 4:30am or in Ollantaytambo at 6:30am, and travel by private van passing through the picturesque villages of Chinchero, Urubamba and Ollantaytambo. After a 2 hour journey we reach KM82, the start of the trail.
Once in Piskacucho, we cross the bridge to begin our trek along the left bank of the Urubamba river, that follows to the North-east of the Urubamba valley. After three hours walking, we explore the first stunning Inca site of Llatallacta (2,650m/8,747ft). Afterwards we continue with our hike for 30 minutes to Tarayoc for lunch. Then we follow the Kusichaca valley for two hours to reach our first camp at Wayllabamba (3,000m/9,900ft) where we will have afternoon tea, dinner and spend the night.
During the day we will be able to enjoy the spectacular views of the snow-capped mountains such as Veronica Mountain(5,860m/19,337ft), lush green valley below with a myriad of flora and fauna.
The second day of trek is the toughest day of trekking. After a healthy breakfast, we start walking up a moderate hill for five hours through the cloud forest to reach the highest point of our trek, the Warmiwañusca pass (Dead Woman’s pass) located at an elevation of 4,215m/13,907ft. From here we have the opportunity to enjoy the views of magnificent mountains, beautiful green valleys and myriad of flora and fauna. After some time taking photos and enjoying the incredible scenery, we descend for two hours to our second camp at Paqaymayu(3,600m/11,877ft), where we have our lunch, afternoon tea, dinner and spend the night.
Todays´ hike is the most scenic and longest day of our trek. After a delicious breakfast we walk uphill for one hour to explore the archeological site of Runcurakay at (3,800m/12,540ft) . Then we ascend to the pass which is (3,977m/13,127ft) above sea level. From the pass we can enjoy the breathtaking surrounding mountains and stunning lakes. After some time of relaxation and taking in all the beautiful sites and scenery, we descend for one hour to the next archeological site of Sayacmarca (3,600m/11,877ft).
Walking for 30 minutes to our lunch spot at Chaq´icocha. After lunch, we continue on an easy trail to the pass of Phuyupatamarca (3,650m/12,047ft). From our viewpoint we get to enjoy the spectacular views of Mount Machu Picchu, the Urubamba canyon and the surrounding snow-capped mountains. Later descend through the cloud forest for three more hours, all down stairs to the third camp at Wiñaywayna (2,650m/8,747ft) where we spend the night
Note: On this day all our groups are visiting one of the most impressive Inca Cites of the Inca Trail called Wiñawayna!!
This is the day you have been waiting for,the excitement is palpable. We wake up very early and have breakfast. Then we walk for one hour towards the Sun Gate (2,720m/8,977ft) from where we get to enjoy the first spectacular view of Machu Picchu in all its brilliance.
Descend for an hour to the wonder of the world: Machu Picchu (2400m/7,920ft). Afterwards we start the guided tour for 2 hours visiting all the most important places. Have plenty of time to explore, take photos or climb Huayna Picchu and Machu Picchu Mountains if desired (needs to be booked in advance). Take your time exploring the “lost city of the Incas” before we head back to Aguas Calientes and take our return train to Ollantaytambo at 4:22pm and meet our van connection to Cusco, arriving at your hotel in the evening at around 8pm.
The Classic Inca Trail to Machu Picchu Trek is available on any date that is best suited to you as long as we have a minimum of 2 hikers
***Discount of $20 USD per person for groups of 5 or more persons
This price includes the extra porter who will carry your belongings up to 7 kilos (including the sleeping bag : 2kgs), we will provide you a duffle bag to put your belongings in.
If permits are sold out for the Classic Inca Trail on your preferred date,” don’t get stressed out,” you have so many options that will still allow you to trek and enjoy the Andes on the way to MACHU PICCHU. Alternative treks are just as beautiful as the Inca Trail. They are less crowded because we take you OFF the beaten track” in the Andes and we make sure you don’t miss anything on your trek to MACHU PICCHU.
We do requires only a minimum of 2 partcipants for our departures! “You can choose any day that is best for you as long as we have a minimum of 2 trekkers.”
If you are a single traveller and are flexible with your start date, we will make sure you have a group to travel with and you won’t miss out on any of the fun.
“Please read the following information carefully about the 4 days Inca Trail to Machu Picchu; it will help answer most of your questions about our services and the 4 day Inca Trail to Machu Picchu ”
What is the Inca Trail?
The Inca Trail is a hiking trail in Peru that leads to the ancient Inca city of Machu Picchu. The trail is famous for its stunning views of the Andes Mountains and for the many Inca ruins that hikers pass along the hike.
How long is the Inca Trail?
The classic Inca Trail is a four day & three night trek that covers approximately 42 kilometres (26 miles). Its all camping.
Do I need a permit for hiking the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu?
Yes, you need a permit for hiking the Inca Trail. The Peruvian government limits the number of people (500 tickets? who can hike the trail each day to help preserve the fragile ecosystem and protect the ruins. It’s important to book your permit well in advance, as they can sell out quickly.
How difficult is the Inca Trail?
The Inca Trail is a moderate to challenging hike, with steep climbs and descents, high altitude, and variable weather conditions. It’s important to be physically prepared for the trek and to acclimate to the altitude fot at least 2 days before starting the trail.
What should I pack for the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu?
You should pack comfortable hiking clothes, sturdy hiking shoes, a warm sleeping bag, a waterproof jacket, sunscreen, insect repellent, a hat, sunglasses, a water bottle, and snacks. It’s also a good idea to bring a small day backpack (30L) to carry your personal belongings.
What is the best time of year to hike the Inca Trail?
The best time to hike the Inca Trail is during the dry season, which runs from April to october. The trail can be hiked yearround excepet in February, but the rainy season (November to March) can make the trail more difficult and muddy.
Do I need a guide to hike the Inca Trail?
Yes, all hikers on the Inca Trail are required to have a licensed guide. This is to ensure the safety of hikers and to protect the trail and ruins. The ONLY way to hike the Inca Trail is witha licensed Inca Trail Operator.
How much does it cost to hike the Inca Trail?
The cost of hiking the Inca Trail can vary depending on the tour operator and the level of service you choose. Generally, you can expect to pay between $700 and $1000 USD per person for a four day trek, including permits, guide, food, and camping equipment.
Can I hike the Inca Trail solo?
No, hiking the Inca Trail solo is not allowed. All hikers must be part of a guided group, and permits are issued for specific departure dates and group sizes.d
Is altitude sickness a concern on the Inca Trail?
Yes, altitude sickness can be a concern on the Inca Trail, as the trail reaches elevations of over 4,200 meters (13,800 feet). It’s important to acclimate to the altitude before starting the trail, stay hydrated, and listen to your body for any signs of altitude sickness.
“Please read the following information carefully about the 4 days Inca Trail to Machu Picchu; it will help answer most of your questions about our services and the 4 day Inca Trail to Machu Picchu ”
What is the Inca Trail?
The Inca Trail is a hiking trail in Peru that leads to the ancient Inca city of Machu Picchu. The trail is famous for its stunning views of the Andes Mountains and for the many Inca ruins that hikers pass along the hike.
How long is the Inca Trail?
The classic Inca Trail is a four day & three night trek that covers approximately 42 kilometres (26 miles). Its all camping.
Do I need a permit for hiking the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu?
Yes, you need a permit for hiking the Inca Trail. The Peruvian government limits the number of people (500 tickets? who can hike the trail each day to help preserve the fragile ecosystem and protect the ruins. It’s important to book your permit well in advance, as they can sell out quickly.
How difficult is the Inca Trail?
The Inca Trail is a moderate to challenging hike, with steep climbs and descents, high altitude, and variable weather conditions. It’s important to be physically prepared for the trek and to acclimate to the altitude fot at least 2 days before starting the trail.
What should I pack for the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu?
You should pack comfortable hiking clothes, sturdy hiking shoes, a warm sleeping bag, a waterproof jacket, sunscreen, insect repellent, a hat, sunglasses, a water bottle, and snacks. It’s also a good idea to bring a small day backpack (30L) to carry your personal belongings.
What is the best time of year to hike the Inca Trail?
The best time to hike the Inca Trail is during the dry season, which runs from April to october. The trail can be hiked yearround excepet in February, but the rainy season (November to March) can make the trail more difficult and muddy.
Do I need a guide to hike the Inca Trail?
Yes, all hikers on the Inca Trail are required to have a licensed guide. This is to ensure the safety of hikers and to protect the trail and ruins. The ONLY way to hike the Inca Trail is witha licensed Inca Trail Operator.
How much does it cost to hike the Inca Trail?
The cost of hiking the Inca Trail can vary depending on the tour operator and the level of service you choose. Generally, you can expect to pay between $700 and $1000 USD per person for a four day trek, including permits, guide, food, and camping equipment.
Can I hike the Inca Trail solo?
No, hiking the Inca Trail solo is not allowed. All hikers must be part of a guided group, and permits are issued for specific departure dates and group sizes.
Is altitude sickness a concern on the Inca Trail?
Yes, altitude sickness can be a concern on the Inca Trail, as the trail reaches elevations of over 4,200 meters (13,800 feet). It’s important to acclimate to the altitude before starting the trail, stay hydrated, and listen to your body for any signs of altitude sickness.
As a Professional Direct Local Tour operator we provide you with a duffle bag at your briefing and INCLUDE an extra porter who will carry up to 7 kgs or 15 pounds including your 2.5kg sleeping bag and mattress, as well as extra clothing.
We highly recommend a small backpack 30 to 40Litres for hiking in the day. A big backpack will not be allowed into Machu Picchu. The remainder of your belongings will be in your duffel bag at camp.
The Inca Trail is a trekking route famous worldwide because it is the same one that the Incas used to get to Machu Picchu Inca city, centuries ago. The Inca Trail only occupies 26 miles of this large network and is a well signed path that begins on km 82 of train rail leading to Machu Picchu, crossing high passes (13,780 feet), Sierra and jungle eyebrow. It is not recommended for the faint of heart, as the path can sometimes be very difficult.
As you already know, the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu requires a series of rules to be fulfilled.
