Embark on an unforgettable 4-day adventure along the legendary Inca Trail to Machu Picchu. Start your journey with an early departure from Cusco, traveling through breathtaking scenery to Km 82, the starting point of the trek. On the first day, you will immerse yourself in Inca history as you pass archaeological sites such as Patallacta before arriving at the campsite in Ayapata, surrounded by majestic mountains.
On the second day, challenge your limits as you ascend the famous Dead Woman’s Pass, the highest point of the trek, and enjoy spectacular views before descending into the tranquil Pacaymayo Valley. On the third day, relax as you traverse the mysterious cloud forest and explore Inca sites such as Phuyupatamarca and Intipata, before camping near Wiñaywayna.
On the last day, wake up early to witness the sunrise over Machu Picchu from the Sun Gate, a unique experience that culminates with a guided tour of the enigmatic Lost City of the Incas. This tour is the perfect blend of challenge, history and nature, ideal for those seeking an authentic experience on one of the most iconic trails in the world, book now and experience the magic of the Inca Trail!
Location
Itinerary
Day 1: Cusco - Km 82 - Wayllabamba - Ayapata
Begin your Inca Trail adventure with an early pick-up at your hotel in Cusco around 4:30 a.m. If you are staying in the Sacred Valley, such as Urubamba or Ollantaytambo, we will pick you up a little later, after 6:00 a.m. We will travel for approximately 2.5 hours to Km 82 (Village of Piscacucho), the starting point of this epic 4-day trek to Machu Picchu. First, we will make a stop in Ollantaytambo to enjoy a delicious breakfast and buy any last minute items you may need for the trek.
We will arrive at the starting point at Km 82 around 8:00 a.m., where you will meet our amazing team of cooks and porters. After a quick passport check at the checkpoint, we will be ready to begin our experience to the Legendary Lost City of the Incas.
The first section of the hike is an easy 2-hour walk to Patallacta, an ancient site along the Inca Trail route. From this unique location, you will enjoy beautiful views of this site surrounded by mountains and rivers. Then, we will walk for 2 more hours to the village of Wayllabamba, where our team will prepare a delicious lunch with fresh local ingredients.
After a nice lunch, we will continue for another 2 hours to Ayapata, the first campsite on the Inca Trail, arriving at approximately 5:00 p.m. You will find your tent, a snack and a hot drink waiting for you. Before tea time and dinner, there will be plenty of time to relax, prepare your bed and enjoy the breathtaking mountain scenery.
- Hiking Distance: 14 km / 8.7 mi
- Duration: 6 hours
- Campsite Altitude: 3,300 m / 10,826 ft
- Maximum Altitude: 3,300 m / 10,826 ft
- Meals: Breakfast, snacks, lunch, tea time, dinner
- Difficulty: Moderate
Day 2: Ayapata - Dead Woman's Pass - Chaquicocha
The most challenging day of the 4-day trek to Machu Picchu! We will start early, bringing you a cup of freshly brewed coffee or coca tea directly to your tent. After breakfast, we will head out for a 4-hour hike to the Dead Woman's Pass (4,215 m / 13,829 ft), the highest point on the Inca Trail. At the top, we will stop to appreciate the serenity of this magical place, enjoying its calm with a coca tea while your guide performs a traditional offering ceremony to thank the mountain spirits, the Apus. After enjoying the breathtaking views, we will descend for 2 hours to the Pacaymayo Alto Valley for a well-deserved lunch and rest, preparing the body for the second part of the day.
After lunch, the second section is an easier two-hour hike to Runkuraqay Pass (4,000 m / 13,123 ft) and another 2 hours of descent to the second camp; on the way, you will explore two Inca sites: Runkuraqay and Sayacmarca. The second camp will be at Chaquicocha (dry lake, 3600 m / 11,811 ft), where you can admire a beautiful sunset over the Vilcabamba mountain range before dinner. At nightfall, this place offers a clear view of the sky, 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
- Maximum Altitude: 4,215 m / 13,829 ft
- Meals: Breakfast, snacks, lunch, tea time, dinner
- Difficulty: Challenging
Day 3: Chaquicocha - Intipata - Wiñaywayna
With the difficult part of the Inca Trail behind you, today you can relax and enjoy the most relaxing and exciting day of the trek. Today's route is extremely varied; it is only a 5-hour hike to the final camp. On 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 enjoy the magical surroundings. We will arrive at the camp around 1:00 p.m. for lunch, and then you will have free time to relax, rest 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 the history of this incredible place. Then we will return to the camp for tea time, dinner and a special farewell surprise.
- Walking Distance: 10 km / 6.2 mi
- Duration: 5 hours
- Campsite Altitude: 2,600 m / 8,530 ft
- Maximum Altitude: 3,600 m / 11,811 ft
- Meals: Breakfast, snack, lunch, teatime, dinner
- Difficulty: Moderate
Day 4: Discover Machu Picchu - Cusco
On our last day of the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, you must get up very early to prepare for the highlight of your experience: Visiting Machu Picchu, the Lost City of the Incas! We will go directly to the checkpoint and wait until it opens at 5:30 a.m. As the sky lights up, we will walk for an hour to the Sun Gate (Intipunku), enjoying the breathtaking views. On a clear day, you will be able to see the spectacular sunrise over Machu Picchu from the Sun Gate, a truly unforgettable view. Then, we will begin a final 1-hour descent to Machu Picchu, arriving at the last checkpoint at around 8:00 a.m.
Your guide will take you on a full 2 to 3 hour tour of the most important sites of the Inca City. If you are looking for an additional challenge, you can climb Huayna Picchu Mountain (tickets should 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 on the panoramic train (Vistadome or 360°). The TreXperience team will meet you at the train station and take you back to your hotel in Cusco or the Sacred Valley. Approximate arrival time in Cusco is around 7:30 p.m.
- Hiking Distance: 6 km / 3.7 mi
- Hiking Duration: 2-3 Hours
- Maximum Altitude: 2,720 m / 8,923 ft
- Meals: Breakfast, snacks
- Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
Included
- Safety briefing the day before the tour
- Complimentary luggage storage
- Hotel pickup and drop off
- All transportation during the tour
- Professional Tour Guide
- Return on the Expeditions or voyager Train
- 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 chefs and porters
- 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, oxygen supply
- Private portable toilets
- Pillow, sleeping pad, rain poncho, hand towels
- 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
Before you
- Prepare your body: Take walks beforehand and do endurance exercises to get used to the physical activity. Also consider arriving in Cusco a few days before to acclimatize to the altitude.
- Proper equipment: Take comfortable, well-worn hiking boots, a light backpack, clothing suitable for variable climates, sunscreen, insect repellent and a good raincoat.
- Pack light: Carry only the essentials. Remember that you will have a weight limit for your backpack, especially if you have the support of porters.
- Hydration and food: Stay well hydrated and consume energy food. Bring snacks such as dried fruits and energy bars to keep your energy levels up during the trek.
- Respect nature and culture: Do not leave trash and follow your guide's instructions. Respect the archaeological sites and local communities you will visit along the way.
- Documents and permits: Make sure you have your passport and permits for the Inca Trail ready. Carry them with you at all times.
- Take care of your health: Take a basic first aid kit with medicines for altitude sickness, headaches and digestive discomfort. It is also important to have travel insurance.
- Positive mentality: Keep a positive attitude and enjoy the trip, even in the most challenging stretches. The Inca Trail is both a physical challenge and a spiritual experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
The classic Inca Trail lasts 4 days and 3 nights, covering approximately 42 km (26 miles). There are also shorter options, such as the 2-day Inca Trail, ideal for those who have less time or prefer a less demanding trek. Both options end at the spectacular citadel of Machu Picchu, providing a unique experience of connection with Andean history and nature.
Yes, it is mandatory to obtain a permit to hike the Inca Trail, as access is strictly regulated to protect the site. Permits must be booked months in advance, especially for the peak months (May to September). Only authorized tour agencies can process these permits, and it is essential to make sure you book well in advance to guarantee your spot.
The best time to hike the Inca Trail is during the dry season, which runs from May to September. During these months, the weather is more predictable, with less rainfall, which makes the trek more pleasant and safer. Although it is also possible to trek in the rainy season (November to March), conditions can be more difficult due to mud and constant rain. The Inca Trail closes in February for maintenance.
The Inca Trail is a trek of moderate to high difficulty. The trek includes steep sections and steep descents, all at a significant altitude (reaching 4,215 m at the Dead Woman’s Pass). It requires good physical condition and prior acclimatization to the altitude. However, with proper preparation, most people in good health can complete it successfully.
It is essential to carry adequate equipment for the Inca Trail. This includes comfortable, well-worn hiking boots, appropriate layered clothing (waterproof and warm), sunscreen, insect repellent, hat, gloves, sunglasses, energy snacks, a water bottle or hydration system, and personal hygiene items. A light backpack is key, as you will be carrying your own equipment during the trek.
Yes, there are basic toilets at some campsites and rest sites along the Inca Trail, but facilities are limited. It is advisable to bring your own toilet paper, hand sanitizer, and garbage bags to keep the trail clean. At some campsites, tour agencies also set up portable toilets for convenience.
Yes, it is mandatory to do the Inca Trail with an authorized guide and an organized group. Peruvian government regulations do not allow travelers to do this trek independently to ensure the safety and conservation of the site. Guides also provide valuable information about the history, culture and ecology of the trail, enriching your experience.
Acclimatization is essential to avoid altitude sickness on the Inca Trail. It is recommended to spend at least 2 or 3 days in Cusco or the Sacred Valley before starting the trek. If you experience symptoms of altitude sickness (headache, nausea, fatigue), it is important to rest, hydrate well, and consume coca tea. The guides are trained to handle these situations and, in severe cases, can coordinate a return to a lower level.
Yes, many people with no previous trekking experience complete the Inca Trail successfully. However, it is advisable to do some hiking and endurance exercises before your trip to improve your physical condition. Basic training, combined with a positive attitude and proper preparation, can make this experience accessible and rewarding for anyone.
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