Classic Inca Trail to Machu Picchu 4 Days 3 Nights

The Royal Road, now called “The Inca Trail” was the route taken by pilgrims and authorized officials of the empire to The Lost City of the Incas “Machu Picchu”. This journey is a magical and unforgettable experience, featuring a network of strategically placed trails with beautiful ergonomic design and excellent structure. These paths are surrounded by stunning landscapes with diverse vegetation and a multitude of climate zones. The trail is paved with block rocks and includes stairs, tunnels and wooden bridges that cross rivers, temperate valleys, the warm cloud forest, and the cold Andean heights. This entire experience will make you reflect on the intellect and the spiritual greatness of the Andean people whose greatest achievement was the Inca civilization.

If you are excited about adventure, and want to hike one of the most famous tours in the world, get ready and let´s start our journey!

Duration:
4 days
Dificult:
Demanding level
Travel style:
Hiking, Adventure
Group size:
from 2 to 16
Altitude:
4215 m.a.s.l
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Terms

We will pick you up from your hotel in Cusco between 5:00 am and 5:30 am on the bus that will take us directly to Piscacucho (2700 m.a.s.l.) a small community located at Km. 82 of the route from Cusco to Machu Picchu. We will begin to hike and join the entire team of professionals who will make our journey an unforgettable experience. The Inca Trail  starts  by crossing the traditional bridge at Km 82 walking along the left bank of the Urubamba River  which flows northeast through the Sacred Valley. After passing some flat terraces, we will reach Miskay (2800 m.a.s.l.)  Before ascending to finally see the Inca City of Patallacta or Llactapata (2750 m.a.s.l.) We will then continue our hike along the valley created by the Kusichaca River, until we reach our first campsite at Wayllabamba (3000 m.a.s.l.)  Where we will have a revitalizing dinner and spend the night.

During the Inca Trail, we will enjoy a splendid panorama: The Vilcanota River, The Urubamba mountain range, with the snowcapped-peak of mount Veronica (5,750 m.a.s.l) and a great variety of flora and fauna throughout the entire route.

  • Transport time: 3 hours.
  • Time of Hiking: 7 hours.
  • Distance: 12 km
  • Difficulty Level: Moderate
  • Climate: The weather is mild during the day and cold at night.
  • Altitude: Cusco (3,350 m.a.s.l) – km 82 (2,700m.a.s.l) – Llactapata (2,650m.a.s.l) – Wayllabamba (3,000m.a.s.l)

On this day, after breakfast around 7.00 am, we will start our hike, the most challenging day of the Inca Trail. The hike involves a steep and narrow ascent of about 9 kilometers. Along this climb the landscape will transition from Highland to puna, a dry and high – altitude area with sparse vegetation. At this point we will reach the first and highest mountain pass at 4215 m.a.s.l known as Abra de Warmiwañusca (Dead woman´s pass) Here we may observe domesticated  llamas and  alpacas grazing on ichu, one of the few plants that grow at this altitude. We will also pass through an area of forest where various animals such as sparrows and the Andean bear or spectacled bear, inhabit. It’s advisable to carry candies, coca leaves and chocolates to maintain high sugar levels in the body and counteract altitude sickness. After crossing the pass, we will descend to the Pacaymayu Valley (3600 m.a.s.l) where we will camp after approximately 7 hours of hiking.

  • Time of Hiking: 8 hours.
  • Distance: 11 km
  • Difficulty Level: Moderate
  • Climate: Mild during the day, with wind and drizzle and cold at night.
  • Altitude: Wayllabamba (3,000m.a.s.l), Warmiwañusca pass (4,215 m.a.s.l), Pacaymayu (3500m.a.s.l)

This is the longest but most interesting and impressive day of our hike, as we will visit numerous archaeological sites guided and explained by our guide. From Pacaymayu we will ascend to the second pass, Abra de Runkurakay (3,970 m.a.s.l). We will visit the archaeological complex of the same name at 3800 m.a.s.l. where we will encounter important remnants of the Inca Culture. After crossing the pass, we will descend to Yanacona (black lagoon) and finally reach to Sayacmarca (3624 m.a.s.l.)  for an approximately 20 minutes guided tour. We will then head to “Chaquicocha” for lunch and continue to hike, observing the changing geography from dry and mountainous to semi – tropical green, or the cloud forest. We continue up an easy climb until we reach the third pass Abra de Phuyupatamarca (3580m.a.s.l.). We will follow our hike, the pass through an Inca tunnel and arrived at aforementioned pass. This is one of the most complete and best – preserved archeological complexes, located at the highest point of the mountain. Phuyupatamarca which means ¨The Cloud above the Town¨ offers a sophisticated complex of solid water source foundations and stunning views of the Urubamba River. From here, we will continue descending towards Wiñaywayna (2650 ma.s.l.) meaning ¨Forever Young¨, for a guided tour for spectacularly located archaeological site. Dinner and overnight stay at the Campsite.

NOTE:

On this day, the overnight campsite may be either Phuyupatamarca or Wiñaywayna, this campsites are assigned based on the criteria set by the Ministry of Culture authorities, depending on availability.

  • Time of Hiking: 8 hours.
  • Distance: 16 km
  • Difficulty Level: Moderate
  • Climate: Mild during the day, with wind and drizzle, and cold at night.
  • Altitude: Wayllabamba (3,000masl), Warmiwañusca Pass (4,215 masl), Pacaymayu (3500masl)

In Wiñaywayna or Phuyupatamarca we will wake up early around 3:00am. Because the porters need to return to Cusco very early, and we along the guide will head towards the Sun Gate or Inti Punku.  At this impressive spot, we will enjoy the first panoramic view of Machu Picchu and watch the sunrise after a walk over the flat stones that adorn the edges of the mountain cliffs.  From Inti Punku we will walk for 40 minutes until we reach Machu Picchu, where we will enjoy a guided tour lasting two hours. We will make brief stops to take photos during the tour of the citadel and marvel at the spectacular views of valleys and mountains. In the afternoon we will then descend to the town of Aguas Calientes where we will have the option to visit the thermal baths. Finally, we will board the train back to the city of Cusco.                                                                                                                                        

  • Time of Hiking: 2-3 hours.
  • Distance: 6 km
  • Difficulty Level: Moderate
  • Climate: Warm during the day with mosquitoes.
  • Altitude: Phuyupatamarca (3580 masl), Wiñaywayna (2,650 masl), Machupicchu (2,400 masl)

NOTE:

Guided tours Machupicchu last between 2 hours and 2 ½ hours maximum in a shared service and between 2 and 3 hours in a private service, depending on the coordination between the guide and the passengers. (The timing also depends on the train return schedules, lunch time, and the descent to the town of Aguas Calientes).

INCLUDED IN THE TOUR

  • Tourist transport from the hotel to the start of the hike (Km 82).
  • Train Ticket for the return journey from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo in Tourist Service ´Expedition´ or similar.
  • Tourist Transport from the Ollantaytambo train station to Cusco.
  • Bus Ticket for the descent from Machu Picchu to Aguas Calientes.
  • Tickets for the Inca Trail and Machu Picchu.
  • Professional English - speaking guide throughout the entire tour, including Machu Picchu (2 guides for groups of 9 or more passengers).
  • Meals: 3 Breakfast, 3 Lunches, 3 Dinners.
  • Water: We will provide the necessary water for the 4 days during meals and to refill your canteen.
  • Camping Equipment (four - person tents) (for 2 people but can accommodate 3) sleeping pads, kitchen tents, dining tents, chairs, tables.
  • Chef responsible for preparing the meals.
  • Porters responsible for carrying camping equipment.
  • Accommodation for guides, cooks and porters.
  • First aid Kit.
  • Emergency oxygen cylinder.
  • SERNANP Taxes.

NOT INCLUDED IN THE TOUR

  • Breakfast on the first day, and lunch and dinner on the fourth day.
  • Tips for the guide, cook and porters.

 OPTIONAL:

  • Extra porter for carrying personal gear (US $190). If you don´t wish to carry your personal luggage, you have the option to hire an extra porter who can carry up to 14 kilograms.
  • Entry to Huayna Picchu Mountain or Machu Picchu Mountain:  US $ 75.00 (Confirm this entry at the time of booking, subject to space and availability).
  • There is an aditional cost if you wish to return to by first class train ¨VISTADOME Tourist Service¨ with an extra US $ 40.00 per person.
  • Sleeping bag for the entire hike, down (US $25). Available for rent upon advance request (up to 5 days prior).
  • Buffet Lunch at Machu Picchu Sanctuary Lodge:  US $ 40.00 per person, or lunch in the town of Aguas Calientes from US $ 15.00 per person.
  • An extra night at a hotel in Aguas Calientes can be reserved for those who wish to stay an additional day. Prices start from  $ 30.00 per person.
  • Visit to the Aguas Calientes thermal baths, located a 10 – minutes walk from the town (entrance is US $ 6). towels and swimwear can be rented on – site.
  • If you wish to have a single tent, add US $ 50.00.

Group Tour

$ 750 USD

Price per person for shared service

  • US $ 725.00 (2 PAX MINIMUM)

AVAILABLE DISCOUNTS:

Students: US 35.00

Students must present the original Student ID issued by the university up to the age of 25, which should include the following:

  • University Information.
  • Student´s personal information.
  • Student´s photo.
  • Validity date not older than one year from the date of visit to Machu Picchu.

Private Tour

Private Tour Pricing

For details on our private tour prices, contact us at sales@incaperutravel.com or reach us via WhatsApp: +51 963 213 482.

Additional Items

  • Extra porter to carry personal equipment (US $150.00 If you do not wish to carry your personal luggage, you have the option of hiring an extra porter who can carry up to 15 kilos).
  • It has an additional cost if you wish to return by First Class train “VISTADOME Tourist
    Service”, increase US $35.00 per person.
  • Sleeping bag for the entire walk: in fleece or synthetic (US$ 15.00) or in Feather (US $ 25.00). For rent in our Office.
  • Entrance fee to Huayna Picchu Mountain (US$70.00).
  • An extra hotel night in Aguas Calientes can be reserved for those who wish to stay an extra day. Prices range from $25.00.
  • If you want to go up to the Machu Picchu Citadel again the next day, you will have to pay your entrance fee again (the first one is included in the Inca Trail package).

RECOMENDATIONS FOR WHAT TO BRING

  • Passport or Identification Document.
  • A personal backpack.
  • Camera and extra batteries.
  • Extra clothing for the travel days.
  • Warm clothing.
  • Small towel.
  • Hiking shoes.
  • Rain poncho.
  • Canteen and purification tablets.
  • Flashlight.
  • Sunglasses.
  • Insect Repellent, sunscreen and hat.
  • Toilette paper.
  • Swimwear and towel (if visiting the thermal baths).
  • Personal medications.
  • Cash for purchases ( Soles or Dollars)

OPTIONAL

  • Rubber – tipped trekking poles.
  • Snacks: Cookies, sweets,chocolates, energy bars, fruits, etc.

Travel Insurance: It is advisable to have travel insurance and, if possible, send us a copy before your arrival in Peru.

Passport: It´s important to present the same original documents (Passport or ID) used to make the reservation when entering the Inca Trail; otherwise you will not be allowed entry. The document numbers must match those provided during the reservation. If, for any reason, you changed your Passport number after making the reservation, please notify us before your arrival in Cusco or bring both documents (the old and the new).

Extra Night in Aguas Calientes: If you wish to stay an extra night in Aguas Calientes, you must inform us at the time of booking. After the reservation, there is an option to change the date for this ticket (with a penalty fee), according to train company policies. You will need to make a reservation for a hotel stay in Aguas Calientes for the 4th day. Optionally you can purchase an additional ticket for Machu Picchu and/ or Huayna Picchu for the 5th day. (Not included in the package).

Huayna Picchu Mountain: If you wish to climb Huayna Picchu Mountain, you can do so on this day as well, but it is best to do it on the 5th day due to the physical effort required. It is necessary to purchase these tickets separately and well in advance, as they are not included in the package.

Frequent Questions

Have and send us your travel insurance before your arrival in Peru.

It is important to present the same original documents (identity or passport) with which you registered the reservation at the time of entering the Inca Trail, otherwise you will not be able to enter. The document numbers must match those of the document with which you made the reservation. If for any reason you changed your passport number after making the reservation, please notify us before your arrival in Cusco or bring both documents (the old and the new).

If you wish to stay an additional night we transfer the return train ticket for the 5th day. After the reservation there is no option to change the date for this ticket (the change would have to be done personally when you arrive in Cusco), due to train company policies. You will need to make a reservation for a hotel night in Aguas Calientes for the 4th day. Optionally: you can purchase tickets to Machu Picchu and/or Huayna Picchu for the 5th day (not included in the package).

If you want to climb the Huayna Picchu Mountain, it is best to do it on the 5th day, due to the physical effort that is needed, plus if you do it on the 4th day you would be paying twice for the entrance to Machu Picchu, since this entry is included. in the price of the Inca trail.

The best The best way to find out the availability of this interesting hike is to contact an agency authorized to do this hike. Inca Perú Travel is a specialist in hiking routes, especially the Inca Trail 2 and 4 Days. It is only necessary for you to contact one of our sellers so that they can inform you immediately about availability.

Available spaces are limited per day. There are 500 spaces available per day and this covers 250 spaces for tourists and 250 spaces for the agency’s staff such as: Cooks, guides, assistants, muleteers, etc.

Cusco, the imperial city is at an altitude of 3350 meters above sea level. so if you come from a much lower place or at sea level. The best and most recommended thing is to spend at least 2 to 3 days in Cusco before doing the Inca Trail, this is because on the route you will ascend to 4,223 meters above sea level. If you want to have an unforgettable experience, the most recommended thing is proper acclimatization so you can do the hike without any problems or altitude sickness.

The Inca Trail 4 days has a distance of 40 km which is divided day by day. The most complicated day is the second day as you ascend to the highest pass of the walk, this pass is called Warmiwañusca (dead woman’s pass) and is at 4223 meters above sea level.

Because it is a journey that requires a lot of maintenance and constant care as it is a historical legacy that is more than 500 years old, it is necessary, important and mandatory to hire an authorized travel agency to carry out this adventure. Keep in mind that not all agencies can operate it directly if they do not have the corresponding authorization. Currently, there are only 230 travel agencies that meet all the requirements, among them is the Inca Perú Travel team.

The Inca Trail is open 11 months a year, except for the month of February, which is closed for maintenance and because it is the month with the most rain in Cusco. Please note that December to March is the rainy season and this can sometimes close some days during this time, due to inconveniences, landslides, natural problems. It is important that after booking you are always in contact with your agency salesperson to be constantly updated.

The most recommended is from April to November. At this time it is the dry season, so you will not find much rain and you will fully enjoy the mountainous landscapes of the route.

For being an authorized local direct operator. We ask for 50% of the total amount of the tour, this can be done with a credit card, bank deposit or Western Union. Please note that for a prior reservation, our sellers will ask you for basic and important information such as: Copy of Passport or Identity Document (your identification must be valid and if it is expired, you can make the reservation but you must bring the two original passports to the control at the beginning of the walk), another document will also be the Student Card (if you have it), this so that the corresponding discounts can be applied.

No, unfortunately it is not possible to change the dates, it is important that when booking, you are very sure.

As a recommendation, we inform you that you only bring what is necessary, for example light clothing for the day since when doing the walk you will become warm and warm clothing for the higher altitude areas and at night. A 45 Liter backpack can be good, so you can comfortably carry your belongings. Of course you have the option of renting an extra porter for your own belongings. We have porters who carry 15Kg and it costs US$170 American Dollars for the entire trip and porters who carry up to 7Kg ​​which costs US$85 American Dollars for the entire trip. Additionally, do not forget to bring your daily backpack, with everything you need such as: sweets, snacks, rain poncho, jacket, water, etc. You can also review the recommendations section.

The kitchen will be in charge of an expert chef who will prepare meals based on fish, meat, chicken, salads and other Andean products. While breakfast is prepared based on hot drinks (coffee, mates, chocolate, tea), milk, breads, pancakes, jams, eggs, among others. All products are select of good quality and purchased directly from local farmers or markets.
If you have any allergies, dietary restrictions be sure to inform us by email or other means once you have completed your reservation so we can take all necessary precautions. If you are vegetarian/vegan you must also let us know and we can adapt the meals.

Walking poles are really important for this hike since they will help you a lot to avoid problems with your knees and to have a little more strength when ascending or descending. Please note that there are stair ascents and also stair descents so we recommend that you bring a pair of walking sticks.

Yes, you will need to bring your own sleeping bag, the most recommended are -10°c bags. Regarding the mat, it is in the price of the tour, however, at the beginning of the walk the guide will give you one and you have to carry it throughout the journey.

Our guides have been trained to respond to emergencies and use first aid equipment appropriately. And above all to manage the group in difficult situations. Therefore, in the event of an accident, you will be attended to by the guide and a member of the team will see the safest and fastest way to leave the Inca trail to transfer you to a medical center. We will be with you at all times of your recovery.
We will travel on the Inca Trail with the first aid kit and oxygen.

No, it is advisable to be in good physical condition to carry out the walk since you will climb maximum heights of 4000 meters above sea level. Before taking the service you must be honest about your health condition or concern. You are responsible for thinking and deciding whether or not a tour is right for you.

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