Classic Inca Trail to Machu Picchu – 4 Days / 3 Nights
Tour Type
Trekking & Cultural Tour
Duration
4 Days / 3 Nights
Difficulty
Level 4 – Challenging
Maximum Altitude
4,200 msnm
Maximum Group Size
10 People
- TOUR DETAILS
The Classic Inca Trail to Machu Picchu is Peru’s most iconic trekking adventure and one of the most famous hiking routes in South America.
Over 4 days and 3 nights, you will follow an ancient stone pathway built by the Incas, crossing spectacular Andean landscapes, high mountain passes, cloud forest and extraordinary archaeological sites accessible only to hikers traveling along the Inca Trail.
The route begins at Km 82 in the Sacred Valley and gradually climbs toward Warmiwañuska – Dead Woman’s Pass, the highest point of the trek at 4,200 meters / 13,780 feet above sea level.
Along the way, you will explore remarkable Inca sites such as Llactapata, Runquraqay, Sayacmarca, Phuyupatamarca and Wiñay Wayna, while learning about the history, engineering and spiritual significance of the ancient Inca road system.
The final morning offers one of the most unforgettable experiences in Peru: hiking toward Inti Punku – the Sun Gate and seeing Machu Picchu emerge among the surrounding mountains.
For travelers looking for the complete trekking experience to Machu Picchu, the Classic Inca Trail is truly an adventure of a lifetime.
- ITINERARY
Day 1: Cusco – Km 82 – Llactapata – Wayllabamba
Your adventure begins with an early pickup from your hotel in Cusco.
We will travel through the Sacred Valley toward Ollantaytambo and continue to Km 82, the official starting point of the Classic Inca Trail.
After passing the checkpoint and meeting our trekking support team and Quechua porters, we will begin our journey along the ancient Inca pathway.
The first section of the trail follows the Urubamba River and offers beautiful views of the surrounding mountains, including the impressive snow-capped Verónica Mountain.
During the hike, we will visit the archaeological site of Llactapata, where your guide will explain its history and importance within the Inca road network.
We will continue through the Andean valley toward Wayllabamba, where our campsite will be prepared.
Overnight: Camping at Wayllabamba area.
Day 2: Wayllabamba – Warmiwañuska Pass – Pacaymayu
After an early breakfast, we will begin the most physically demanding day of the Classic Inca Trail.
The trail gradually climbs through changing ecosystems as we make our way toward Warmiwañuska, also known as Dead Woman’s Pass.
At 4,200 meters / 13,780 feet above sea level, this is the highest point of the entire Inca Trail.
Reaching the summit is a major achievement and offers spectacular views of the surrounding Andean mountains and valleys.
After enjoying the scenery and resting at the pass, we will begin our descent toward the Pacaymayu Valley.
The descent takes us through dramatic mountain scenery until we reach our campsite.
Our team will have dinner ready upon arrival, giving you time to rest after the most challenging day of the trek.
Overnight: Camping at Pacaymayu.
Day 3: Pacaymayu – Runquraqay – Sayacmarca – Phuyupatamarca – Wiñay Wayna
After breakfast, we will continue along one of the most fascinating sections of the Inca Trail.
Today combines spectacular mountain scenery with some of the route’s most impressive archaeological sites.
Our first major stop is Runquraqay, a semicircular Inca complex strategically located along the trail.
We will continue toward another mountain pass before reaching the extraordinary archaeological site of Sayacmarca, built dramatically on the edge of a mountain ridge.
As we continue hiking, the environment gradually changes from high-altitude Andean terrain into lush cloud forest.
The ancient stone trail passes through tunnels, stairways and beautifully preserved sections of the original Inca road.
Later, we will visit Phuyupatamarca, whose name is commonly interpreted as the “Town Above the Clouds.”
We will then continue toward the spectacular archaeological complex of Wiñay Wayna, one of the most beautiful and important sites along the entire Inca Trail.
Its agricultural terraces and ceremonial structures provide an extraordinary preview of what awaits us the following morning.
Overnight: Camping near Wiñay Wayna.
Day 4: Wiñay Wayna – Inti Punku – Machu Picchu – Cusco
We will wake up very early for the final and most exciting section of our adventure.
After breakfast, we will begin hiking toward Inti Punku – the Sun Gate.
As we approach Inti Punku, anticipation builds until we finally reach the viewpoint overlooking the magnificent sanctuary of Machu Picchu.
Seeing Machu Picchu for the first time from the Sun Gate is one of the most memorable moments of the Classic Inca Trail.
We will then continue walking toward the archaeological sanctuary.
Your professional guide will lead you through the designated Machu Picchu circuit, explaining its history, architecture, engineering, ceremonial spaces and the achievements of the Inca civilization.
After completing the guided visit, we will take the bus down to Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu Pueblo.
Later, we will board the train toward Ollantaytambo, where our transportation will be waiting to take you back to Cusco.
- INCLUDES / DOES NOT INCLUDE
- Hotel pickup in Cusco
- Tourist transportation from Cusco to Km 82
- Official Classic Inca Trail permit
- Machu Picchu entrance ticket
- Professional trekking and cultural guide
- Professional cook
- Quechua porters for group camping equipment
- Camping tents
- Sleeping mats
- Cooking and dining equipment
- Meals during the trek
- 3 breakfasts
- 3 lunches
- 3 dinners
- Drinking water during the trek according to tour logistics
- First-aid kit
- Emergency oxygen
- Bus from Machu Picchu to Aguas Calientes
- Return train ticket from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo
- Transportation from Ollantaytambo to Cusco
- Pre-tour briefing and assistance
- Breakfast on Day 1
- Lunch in Aguas Calientes on Day 4
- Sleeping bag
- Personal porter for additional personal belongings
- Walking poles
- Huayna Picchu Mountain entrance
- Machu Picchu Mountain entrance
- Travel insurance
- Personal expenses
- Additional snacks and beverages
- Tips for guides, cooks and porters
- PHOTOS
- FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
How difficult is the Classic Inca Trail?
The Classic Inca Trail is considered a challenging multi-day trek.
The most demanding section is the ascent to Warmiwañuska – Dead Woman’s Pass, which reaches 4,200 meters / 13,780 feet above sea level.
You should have a reasonable level of physical fitness and be prepared to walk several hours each day over mountain trails, stone steps and uneven terrain.
How many days does the Classic Inca Trail take?
The traditional itinerary takes 4 days and 3 nights, including three nights of camping along the trail and arrival at Machu Picchu on the fourth day.
What is the highest point of the Inca Trail?
The highest point is Warmiwañuska – Dead Woman’s Pass, located at approximately 4,200 meters / 13,780 feet above sea level.
Do I need previous trekking experience?
Previous multi-day trekking experience is helpful but not mandatory.
However, we strongly recommend preparing physically before your trip by walking, hiking and doing cardiovascular exercise.
Do I need to acclimatize before the trek?
Yes. We recommend spending at least 2 or 3 days in Cusco or another high-altitude location before beginning the Classic Inca Trail.
This gives your body time to adjust to the altitude before reaching the higher sections of the trek.
Do I need a permit for the Classic Inca Trail?
Yes. The Classic Inca Trail is a regulated trekking route, and every traveler must have an official permit.
Permits are limited and linked to each traveler’s personal information, so the trek should be booked well in advance.
Can I buy my Inca Trail permit when I arrive in Cusco?
Normally, no. Because permits are limited, waiting until you arrive in Cusco can mean that your desired departure date is already sold out.
We recommend booking several months in advance, especially during the busiest travel periods.
Are porters included?
Yes. Our trekking team includes Quechua porters who carry shared camping, kitchen and group equipment.
If you would like a personal porter to carry additional personal belongings, this can be arranged for an additional cost, subject to availability and regulations.
Do I have to carry my own backpack?
You should carry a small daypack containing the items you need during the day, such as water, sunscreen, rain protection, camera, personal medication and snacks.
Your personal clothing and other belongings will depend on the porter service included in your specific package.
Where do we sleep?
You will spend three nights camping along the Inca Trail.
Our team prepares the campsite, tents and meals so you can focus on enjoying the trek.
Is a sleeping bag included?
No. A sleeping bag is not included in the standard package. You may bring your own or ask Hidden Peru Adventures about rental options before departure.
Do we enter Machu Picchu through the Sun Gate?
Yes. One of the highlights of the Classic Inca Trail is arriving at Inti Punku – the Sun Gate before continuing toward Machu Picchu.
This traditional approach provides an unforgettable first view of the archaeological sanctuary.
Can I visit Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain?
Additional mountain entrances may be possible depending on ticket availability, schedules and current access regulations.
These tickets are limited and should be requested well in advance.
What should I bring?
We recommend bringing:
- Original passport
- Comfortable trekking boots
- Small daypack
- Warm trekking clothes
- Thermal layers
- Waterproof jacket or rain poncho
- Hat or cap
- Warm hat and gloves
- Sunglasses
- Sunscreen
- Insect repellent
- Reusable water bottle
- Personal medication
- Headlamp
- Extra socks
- Personal toiletries
- Camera
- Snacks
- Cash in Peruvian soles
- Walking poles with rubber tips
- Sleeping bag or rented sleeping bag
From: USD $699.00 per person
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