TRIP ITINERARY
CUSCO – PISCACUCHO (KM 82) - WAYLLABAMBA
The first day of the Inca Trail is relatively easy, providing a gentle introduction to the trek. The trek starts early in the morning, with a pick-up from your hotel in Cusco from 5:30 to 6:00 am The drive to the starting point of the trek, Piscacucho, takes about two hours. From there, you will cross the Urubamba River and enter the Sacred Valley of the Incas.
After passing through the checkpoint, the trail will take you through beautiful Andean scenery, with snow-capped peaks and lush vegetation. You’ll also pass by some small Inca ruins, including Llactapata, which is a good warm-up for the ruins you’ll encounter later on in the trek.
The trail will continue through the valley until you reach Wayllabamba, where you’ll set up camp for the night. This is a good time to relax and take in the beautiful surroundings before continuing the trek the next day.
Early morning pick-up from your hotel in Cusco 5:30 to 6:00 am and drive to the starting point of the trek, km 82.
Begin the hike with a gentle walk along the Urubamba River, passing small villages and archaeological sites along the way.
Hike through lush vegetation and up to the first campsite at Wayllabamba, which is located at 10,830 feet above sea level.
- Total hiking distance: 8.7 miles / 14 km (6-7 hours).
- Campsite altitude: 3000 meters (high) above sea level
- Considered: Moderate day (getting used to the Inca Trail)
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner included
- Accommodation: Camping in tents
- Weather: Warm and windy
HUAYLLABAMBA - INCA TRAIL HIGHEST POINT - PACAYMAYO
Day two of the Inca Trail is the most challenging, with a steep ascent to Dead Woman’s Pass, which sits at an elevation of 4,215 meters. The trail is quite steep and can be a bit of a challenge for some, but the views from the top are absolutely stunning.
After reaching the pass, you’ll begin the descent to Pacaymayo, passing through beautiful landscapes and cloud forests. This part of the trail is particularly interesting, as it passes by several Inca ruins, including Runkurakay and Sayacmarca.
You’ll arrive at Pacaymayo in the late afternoon, where you’ll set up camp for the night. This is a good time to rest and recover before continuing the trek the next day.
Today is considered the most challenging day of the trek, as you will climb up to the highest point of the trail, Warmiwañusca Pass, which stands at 13,780 feet above sea level.
Take breaks along the way to rest and enjoy the stunning views of the Andean mountains and valleys.
Descend into the Pacaymayo valley and set up camp for the night.
- Total hiking distance: 6.2 miles/10km (6-7 hours).
- Campsite altitude: 3700 meters (high) above sea level
- Considered: Top day (you will have survived the two highest passes)
- Area: Andes and Cloud Forest
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner included
- Accommodation: Camping in tents.
- Weather: Cold and rainy
PACAYMAYO - PHUYUPATAMARKA - WIÑAYWAYNA
Day three of the Inca Trail is a bit easier than day two, with a mostly downhill trek to Wiñay Wayna. This part of the trail is particularly interesting, as it passes by several Inca ruins, including Phuyupatamarca, which is known as the “Town in the Clouds.”
You’ll also pass by some beautiful waterfalls and streams, providing plenty of opportunities to rest and take in the scenery. You’ll arrive at Wiñay Wayna in the late afternoon, where you’ll set up camp for the night.
Today’s hike is a mix of steep climbs and descents, passing through several Inca sites along the way, including Runkuracay and Sayacmarca.
Reach the second highest point of the trail at 12,630 feet above sea level before descending into the cloud forest and arriving at the final campsite of Wiñay Wayna.
- Walking distance: 9.94 miles/16 km (7-8 hours)
- Campsite altitude: 2.600 meters (high) above sea level
- Considered: Moderate day, short uphill, then – all downhill!
- Area: High Cloud Forest
- Weather: Warm and very humid (chilly weather)
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner included
- Accommodation: Camping in tents
MACHU PICCHU - CUSCO
The final day of the Inca Trail is the most exciting, as you’ll finally reach Machu Picchu. You’ll start the day early, with a short trek to the Sun Gate, which provides stunning views of Machu Picchu from above. From there, you’ll descend to the ruins themselves, where you’ll have a guided tour.
Machu Picchu is truly awe-inspiring, with its stunning architecture and breathtaking views. After the tour, you’ll have some free time to explore the ruins on your own before taking the train back to Cusco.
Wake up early to arrive at the Inti Punku (Sun Gate) in time for sunrise over Machu Picchu.
Descend into the citadel and enjoy a guided tour of the ancient Inca city.
In the afternoon, take the bus down to Aguas Calientes for lunch and a train ride back to Cusco.
- Considered: The most exciting and magical day
- Area: High Cloud and Subtropical Forest
- Weather: Hot and very humid (bring lots of water)
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, included
- Bus: Tickets for the bus from Machu Picchu to Aguas Calientes included
- Train: Train tickets from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo included; train at 14:30 or 14:55
- Transfer: From Ollantaytambo to Cusco included 1.5-2 hour’s car ride
- Back in Cusco: You will be back in Cusco around 6:30 pm
Inclusions
Included
The Inca Trail is a popular multi-day trek that leads to the ancient ruins of Machu Picchu. In our 4-day/3-night Inca trail trekking package includes the following: ALL INCLUSIVE SERVICE
- Transportation: Include transportation from Cusco to the trailhead and back again after the trek is complete.
- Permits: A permit is required to hike the Inca Trail, and this is included by Machu Picchu Reservations as part of the package.
- Entrance fees: The cost of the Inca Trail trek includes entrance fees to Machu Picchu and other archaeological sites along the way.
- Briefing – to get all the trek details, duffle bags, printed tickets, etc. Presented by the tour guide in our office in Cusco located downtown at 6:00 pm a day before the trek. Briefing provided by the tour guide to give you with all the necessary information about the hike, the route, and safety.
- Porters: A team of porters will carry the bulk of your gear, leaving you with only a day pack to carry. They will carry the duffle bags with 7 kilos of each hiker and set up your tents, cook your meals, and carry all camping equipment.
- Professional guide: A licensed and experienced guide will accompany you throughout the trek, providing information about the history and culture of the Inca civilization. Our guias are fluent in English, Spanish and Quechua
- Meals: All meals are included in the trek, from breakfast on the first day to lunch on the final day. The food is typically enough and nourishing, with plenty of carbohydrates to sustain you during the long hikes.
- 04 breakfasts
- 04 lunches
- 03 dinners
- Camping equipment: For 03 nights You will have a tent and sleeping mat. 01 Tent for every 02 people (Eureka Timberline 4-person tents shared by only 2. + 01 Sleeping Mat for each participant: We provide you with inflatable Thermarest mattresses which guarantee a warm, comfortable night’s sleep on camps of the trail.
- Machu Picchu guided tour.
- Bus ticket: From Machu Picchu to Aguas Calientes town
- Train tickets: Expedition or Voyager Train Ticket from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo at 14:30 or 14:55 to be back In cusco around 7:00
- Transfer service: From Ollantaytam to Cusco back to the hotel
- Safety equipment: Oxygen and first-aid kits are provided in case of emergencies.
- Private portable toilets
- Vegetarian food: Available on request with no extra charge.
Not Included
- Sleeping Bags, If you do not have one, You can rent from The company.
- Trekking poles, If you do not have one, You can rent from The company.
- Travel insurance
Tips:
- Tipping is a way to show appreciation for the services provided by the staff, and it is considered an important part of the trekking experience on the Inca Trail. The amount of the tip varies depending on the level of service provided and the size of the trekking group, but a typical tip for a porter is around 20-30 soles per day, and for a guide is around 50-100 soles per day.
- Tipping also encourages good service and can help to build positive relationships between trekkers and the staff who support them on the Inca Trail.
- It’s important to note that tipping is voluntary and not mandatory, but it’s a common practice and an excellent way to recognize and thank the hard-working staff who make the Inca Trail experience possible.
What to Pack
If you’re planning on doing the Inca Trail, you’ll need to pack accordingly for the 4-day trek. Here are some essential items to consider bringing
CLOTHING:
- Comfortable hiking shoes/boots
- Moisture-wicking hiking socks
- Quick-drying pants
- Lightweight t-shirts
- Long-sleeved shirt
- Fleece jacket or sweater
- Rain jacket and pants
- Hat or cap
- Gloves
SLEEPING GEAR:
- Sleeping bag (rated for cold weather) if you do not have you can rent one from the company
- Pillow (optional)
TREKKING GEAR:
- Samall backpack of 20 to 30 liters
- Hiking poles, if you do not have you can rent from the company
- Headlamp or flashlight with extra batteries
- Sunscreen
- Insect repellent
- Water bottle or hydration system
- Snacks (energy bars, trail mix, etc.)
- Personal toiletries (toothbrush, toothpaste, wet wipes, etc.)
MISCELLANEOUS:
- Passport and necessary documents
- Original student card if you apply for the student price
- Cash for tipping your guides and porters
- Camera or phone with a good camera for capturing memories
- Portable charger for electronic devices
- Lightweight towel
It’s important to note that there are strict regulations on what you can bring on the Inca Trail, so be sure to check with your tour operator or guide to ensure that you are not bringing any prohibited items. You’ll likely have porters carrying most of your gear, so pack everything in a durable and waterproof bag or duffel.
We provide you with a duffle bag to pack 7 kilos of your personal stuff. The porter will carry the duffle bags during the whole trek
Pricing
Inca Trail to Machu Picchu 4 Days – 3 Nights
Government Regulations: The Peruvian government controls visitor numbers, permit prices, porter and guide salaries for the Inca Trail. Tour operators must adhere to these regulations to ensure fair permit distribution and fees. Our Inca Trail 4-day prices are reasonable and sufficient to cover operational costs.
Prices: Inca Trail 4 Days to Machu Picchu – All-Inclusive Door-to-Door Service
Group Service – Season 2023
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Adult: $637 per person
-
Student: $597 per person
Additional Options to Enhance Your Inca Trail Experience:
- Huayna Picchu Mountain: $65 – Check availability here: https://reservas.machupicchu.gob.pe/inicio
- Machu Picchu Mountain: $65 – Check availability here: https://reservas.machupicchu.gob.pe/inicio
- Sleeping Bag + Liner (entire trek): $15
- Trekking Poles (pair, entire trek): $15
- Upgrade to Vistadome Train (panoramic): $35
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STUDENT PRICE:
HOW TO APPLY FOR THE STUDENT PRICE:
The student price is available for all students around the world, provided that they meet the requirements set by the Peruvian government. This discount is applicable when purchasing Machu Picchu tickets from the Peruvian government.
TO QUALIFY FOR THE STUDENT PRICE, YOU MUST MEET THE FOLLOWING REQUIREMENTS:
Your student ID must be an original ID issued by your university, made of PVC material.
The student ID must have the following information printed on it.
- University information.
- Student name.
- Student picture.
- The student ID must have a valid expiration date printed on it, which is only valid for one year. For instance, if you visit Machu Picchu in 2023, the expiration date on your ID must be 2023 or 2024. If you visit Machu Picchu in 2023, the maximum expiration date allowed is 2024.
- The student discount is available only for students who are not more than 25 years old.
- The International Student Identification Card (ISIC) is not valid for the discount, even if it meets the requirements mentioned above.
- The only valid document for the student price is the original student ID that meets the requirements set by the Peruvian government. No other documents such as certifications or virtual cards are accepted as proof of student status.
- To apply for the student price, send us a photo of both sides of your student ID to machupicchureservations@gmail.com when you book the tour. If you send it later, you will not be eligible for the student discount.
How to Book with Machu Picchu Reservation
TO BOOK THE INCA TRAIL, FOLLOW THESE SIMPLE STEPS:
- Choose a reputable, government-authorized tour operator.
- Check the availability for your desired dates on the tour operator’s website. Remember, the Inca Trail is closed for maintenance in February. CHECK AVAILABILITY HERE: https://reservations.web/inca-trail-availability
- Click the “Book Online” button, select the date, and complete the booking form. Have one person fill it out for the entire group to ensure you’re booked together. Keep your passport handy for accurate information.
- Make a payment online using any debit or credit card. There’s a 2.9% fee for online payments, which customers must cover.
- To secure your Inca Trail Trek Tour, provide a $200 deposit per person. This helps obtain necessary permits and tickets from the Peruvian government.
- Optionally, you can pay the full tour amount upfront to avoid any future payment concerns.
- If you choose to pay only the deposit, the remaining balance is due 24 hours before the tour begins. You can pay in cash (soles or dollars) at the office in Cusco or by card (3.9% fee). You can also pay the balance online with any card (2.9% fee).
By following these straightforward steps, you can easily book your Inca Trail experience and focus on preparing for your adventure.
Payment: You can pay for the 4-day Inca Trail online using any debit or credit card. A 2.9% fee applies to online payments, which customers must cover. To book the Inca Trail, a $200 deposit per person is required to secure permits and tickets from the Peruvian government. You can choose to pay the full tour amount upfront to avoid future payment concerns. If you pay only the deposit, the remaining balance is due 24 hours before the tour starts. Pay the balance in cash (soles or dollars) at our office in Cusco, or by card with a 3.9% fee. You can also pay online using any card with a 2.9% fee.
Passport Requirements: Ensure your passport is valid for at least 6 months beyond your planned entry date to Peru. If it’s set to expire within 6 months, renew it before traveling. If your passport expires within 6 months but you want to secure your Inca Trail permits and Machu Picchu tickets, book the tour and update your passport details with us after renewal. Failure to do so may result in permit and ticket forfeiture.
Travel Insurance: We strongly recommend purchasing travel insurance to protect your investment. Obtain insurance before departing and consider working with a reputable agency for affordable coverage.
Deposit: The $200 deposit per person for the 4-day Inca Trail tour is non-refundable and non-transferable.
Remaining Balance: If you only pay the deposit, the balance is due 24 hours before the tour starts. Pay in cash (soles or dollars) at our office in Cusco or by card with a 3.9% fee. You can also pay online with any card and a 2.9% fee.
Student Discount: If your student card meets Peruvian government requirements, reserve the tour with a deposit and pay the remaining balance upon arrival in Cusco. The student discount will be applied at that time.
Photo Gallery
Frequently Asked Questions Classic Inca Trail 4 Days: All-Inclusive Door-to-Door Service
Q: What is the Inca Trail?
- A: 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 way.
Q: How long is the Inca Trail?
- A: The classic Inca Trail is a four-day, three-night trek that covers approximately 42 kilometres (26 miles).
Q: Do I need a permit to hike the Inca Trail?
- A: Yes, you need a permit to hike the Inca Trail. The Peruvian government limits the number of people 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.
Q: How difficult is the Inca Trail?
- A: 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 before starting the trail.
Q: What should I pack for the Inca Trail?
- A: 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 backpack to carry your personal belongings.
Q: What is the best time of year to hike the Inca Trail?
- A: The best time to hike the Inca Trail is during the dry season, which runs from April to october. The trail can be hiked year-round, but the rainy season (November to March) can make the trail more difficult and muddy.
Q: Do I need a guide to hike the Inca Trail?
- A: 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.
Q: How much does it cost to hike the Inca Trail?
- A: 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 $500 and $1000 USD per person for a four-day trek, including permits, guide, food, and camping equipment.
Q: Can I hike the Inca Trail solo?
- A: 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.
Q: Is altitude sickness a concern on the Inca Trail?
- A: 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.
Travel Guide
If you are planning to hike the Inca Trail, there are several important items that you should consider bringing along with you. These items can help ensure that you have a safe and comfortable journey along the trail. Here are some key items to keep in mind:
- Appropriate footwear: You will be walking on rocky and uneven terrain for several days, so it is important to have comfortable and sturdy hiking boots. Make sure your boots are well broken-in before you begin your trek.
- Clothing for all weather conditions: The weather along the Inca Trail can be unpredictable, so it is important to bring clothing for a range of temperatures and weather conditions. This includes warm layers, a waterproof jacket and pants, and clothing that can be easily layered for changing temperatures.
- Sleeping bag: You will be camping along the trail, so it is important to bring a good quality sleeping bag that can keep you warm at night. Temperatures can drop significantly at higher elevations, so make sure your sleeping bag is rated for cold weather.
- Daypack: You will need a small daypack to carry your essentials during the day, including water, snacks, sunscreen, and rain gear.
- Water purification system: The water along the trail is not safe for drinking, so you will need a water purification system to ensure that you have clean drinking water. This can be in the form of water purification tablets or a filtration system.
- Insect repellent: The Inca Trail is home to a variety of insects, including mosquitoes and biting flies. Make sure you bring insect repellent to keep them at bay.
- Trekking poles: Trekking poles can help reduce the strain on your knees and ankles, especially during steep uphill and downhill sections of the trail.
- First aid kit: It is important to bring a first aid kit with essentials such as bandages, pain relievers, and blister treatment. Your tour operator may provide a basic first aid kit, but it is a good idea to bring your own as well.
- Headlamp or flashlight: There are no streetlights along the Inca Trail, so it is important to bring a headlamp or flashlight for navigating around camp at night.
- Camera: Finally, don’t forget to bring a camera to capture the stunning scenery along the trail!
Recommendations
If you are planning to hike the Inca Trail, here are some recommendations to help you prepare:
- Book your trip well in advance: The Inca Trail is a popular destination, and permits to hike it can sell out quickly. Book your trip at least 3 to 6 months in advance to secure a spot.
- Get in shape: The Inca Trail is a challenging hike that requires a good level of physical fitness. Make sure you prepare by doing some cardio and strength training exercises in the months leading up to your trip.
- Acclimatize to the altitude: The Inca Trail reaches an altitude of over 4,200 meters (13,800 feet), which can cause altitude sickness. Spend a few days in Cusco or other high-altitude destinations to acclimatize before starting the hike.
- Pack appropriately: Make sure you pack comfortable hiking shoes, warm clothing for cold nights, a waterproof jacket, a hat, sunscreen, insect repellent, and plenty of water.
- Hire a reputable tour operator: The Inca Trail can only be hiked with a licensed tour operator. Make sure you choose a reputable operator with experienced guides, good equipment, and a commitment to responsible tourism.
- Respect the environment and local communities: The Inca Trail passes through the Sacred Valley, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and local communities. Respect the environment by not leaving any trash behind, and respect local communities by asking for permission before taking photographs and purchasing goods only from authorized vendors.
- Best time to do the Classic Inca Trail: We tell you that Peru has a diversity of geographies and therefore different climates, determining an ideal time to travel is very difficult. But if we focus on this classic Inca Trail of 4 days we consider that the best time to travel the Inca Trail is from April to October, a season without rain, this time is the most pleasant with sunny and cold days in days where the rain is persistent.
- February the Inca Trail is closed: Also, you should know that in the month of February this route is closed for maintenance work, but if we only talk about the entrance to Machu Picchu this is open every month of the year.
- What to bring for the Inca Trail: It is recommended to take only what is necessary, remember that you will walk several kilometers to Machu Picchu and a gram more will affect your performance, so here is a list of items to consider in your journey along the Inca Trail.
- Passport
- Cash, preferably in small denominations 10, 20, 50, 100 soles.
- Camera and video camera
- Backpack cover
- Windproof waterproof jacket.
- Small towel and bathing suit
- 4 shirts / t-shirts
- Sun hat
- 1 pair of shorts
- 2 pairs of long pants
- Hiking boots / strong and comfortable shoes
- Sport sandals
- Sunscreen
- Sunglasses
- Toiletries (biodegradable)
- Bottle of water
- Flashlight
- First aid kit.
- Enjoy the trek: Enjoy the hike to the fullest, it is not a competition to reach Machu Picchu, but take your time and live it to the fullest, because on the hike you will appreciate beautiful landscapes, and adrenaline, and have a lot of fun; besides visiting archaeological sites and new experiences; something that other hikes will not give you.
Why Choose Machupicchu Reservations
we offer all the tours for guests to enjoy the outdoors, we offer Salkantay trek, Inca trail, Machu Picchu tours, we offer day hiking trips, such as Rainbow Mountain Hike, Incas Sacred Valley, Humantay Lake other alternative trekking tours like Inca jungle trail, Choquequirao trek, we offer guiding and supported trips, we offer glass igloos-based tours and camping-based tours.
Machu Picchu Reservations tours are all-inclusive and expert-led, our guests got to show up and focus 100% on the trip experience you do not have to worry about planning, packing, permits, tickets, or any of the headache stuff.
To people who love travel and hiking Machu Picchu Reservations literally has something for everyone we operated all the tours in Cusco with exceptional and personalized service this makes us one of the best-rated companies in the city of Cusco with 5 stars on TripAdvisor, Google, and other social networks.
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