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Adventure Details

The Classic Inca Trail to Machu Picchu 4 days 3 nights will take us through breathtaking landscapes and ancient Inca wonders. This legendary route will combine stunning views, historical insights, and a rewarding sense of achievement. We will hike 43 kilometers along the original path once used by the Inca civilization. Throughout the journey, we will experience awe-inspiring mountain scenery, lush cloud forests, and captivating historical sites.

On the first day of the inca trail tour, we will begin our adventure at KM 82, located in the beautiful Sacred Valley. As we hike, we will pass through stunning natural landscapes and reach our first campsite under the stars. On the second day, we will face the challenge of climbing Warmihuañusca, also known as Dead Woman’s Pass, at 4,215 meters (13,828 feet). Our efforts reward us with magnificent panoramic views and a sense of accomplishment.

The third day will take us through the mystical cloud forest and the fascinating archaeological site of Wiñay Wayna. We will explore terraced ruins that reveal the engineering brilliance of the Incas and their connection to nature. On the final day, we will rise early to hike to the Sun Gate, where the first rays of light will illuminate Machu Picchu. This magical moment will mark the culmination of an unforgettable adventure.

Our guides will help us during the trip and tell us about Inca history, culture, and nature. The tour will include well-planned breaks and hearty meals to keep us energized and motivated. We will stay at designated campsites along the trail, where we can rest and take in the serene surroundings.

The Classic Inca Trail to Machu Picchu 4 days 3 nights is perfect for those who enjoy history, adventure, and nature. Every step we take will connect us to the remarkable legacy of the Inca Empire. By the time we reach Machu Picchu, we will feel a profound connection to this sacred site. This journey will not only test our endurance but also inspire us with its beauty and historical significance.

Let’s get ready for this amazing guided tour, offering stunning views, unforgettable memories, and the adventure of a lifetime.

Place of departure

hotel in Cusco

Departure time

5:30 AM

What's Included in Your Package

Hotel accommodation at Sueños del Inka with buffet breakfast.
Pre-briefing session at 7:00 PM in our office 1 or 2 days before departure (must be confirmed at the time of booking).
Private transfer from your hotel in Cusco to KM 82 (starting point of the trail).
Tourist train tickets from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo and bus to Cusco.
Transfers from Ollantaytambo train station to your hotel in Cusco.
Bus ticket from the archaeological site to the village of Aguas Calientes.
Entrance tickets to the Inca Trail and Machu Picchu.
Bilingual professional guide (Spanish and English).
Cook and kitchen team: They will prepare 3 breakfasts, 3 lunches, and 3 dinners, all of which are great for energy during the trek.
Hot beverages: Coca tea, which is great for altitude, and snacks for tea time (tea, coffee, wontons, popcorn, cookies).
Porters to carry the main luggage (all camping and kitchen equipment).
First aid kit and oxygen.
Unlimited boiled cold water available during the trek.

What is not included

Breakfast on the first day and lunch on the last day in the village of Aguas Calientes.
Sleeping bag, duffel bag (please note they are available for rent for $30.00 USD for 4 days).
Single tent supplement for $50.00 USD (net price).
Walking sticks or trekking poles (available for rent).
Travel insurance (highly recommended).
Tips for porters, guides, and cooks (optional).
Breakfast on Day 1 and lunch on Day 4.
Personal snacks and drinks not included in meals.
Extra costs due to unforeseen delays or emergencies.

Complementaries

Essential Documents & Permits
Valid Passport (Make sure it’s valid throughout the trip)
Inca Trail Permit & Machu Picchu Entry Ticket (Pre-booked)
Student ID (ISIC Card) if applicable
Travel Insurance Details (Mandatory, covering medical emergencies & lost items)
Clothing & Footwear
Trekking Shirts (Moisture-wicking, quick-dry fabric – 2-3 pieces)
Trekking Pants (Convertible or lightweight hiking pants – 2 pairs)
Insulated Jacket (For cold mornings and nights)
Waterproof Rain Jacket/Poncho (Weather is unpredictable)
Shorts (For warm daytime hikes)
Underwear & Socks (4-5 pairs, moisture-wicking)
Gloves (For cold mornings)
Hat/Cap (Sun protection)
Buff/Scarf (For warmth and dust protection)
Hiking Boots (Well-broken-in, waterproof, and with ankle support)
Camp Shoes or Sandals (For evenings at the campsite)
Backpacks & Bags
Duffle Bag or Large Backpack (If hiring a porter)
Waterproof Stuff Sacks/Dry Bags (For organizing and keeping clothes dry)
Small Packable Bag (For carrying items in Aguas Calientes)
Sleeping Gear
Sleeping Bag (Comfortable for temperatures down to 0°C / 32°F)
Sleeping Bag Liner (For extra warmth and hygiene)
Inflatable Pillow (Optional but useful)
Hiking & Camping Equipment
Headlamp with Extra Batteries (Essential for early hikes)
Trekking Poles (Highly recommended, must have rubber tips)
Water Bottles or Hydration Bladder (2-3L)
Water Purification Tablets or Filter (To treat stream water)
Multi-tool or Small Knife
Extra Batteries & Power Bank (For camera, phone, and headlamp)
Toiletries & Personal Care
Toothbrush & Toothpaste
Biodegradable Soap & Shampoo
Toilet Paper & Wet Wipes
Deodorant
Razor (if needed)
Small Mirror
Personal Medications (Including altitude sickness pills)
Insect Repellent (DEET recommended)
Sunscreen (SPF 50+)
Lip Balm (With SPF)
First Aid Kit (Band-aids, blister pads, antiseptic wipes, ibuprofen, etc.)
Earplugs (Campsites can be noisy)
Food & Snacks
Energy Bars, Trail Mix, Dried Fruits, Nuts (For extra fuel)
Small Honey/Jam Packets (Optional but good for quick energy)
Extras & Optional Items
Camera/Phone for Photos (With extra memory card & waterproof case)
Notebook & Pen (For journaling)
Playing Cards or Small Book (For downtime at camp)
Binoculars (For birdwatching & landscapes)
Important Notes:
Altitude Acclimatization: Spend at least 2-3 days in Cusco before the hike.
Weight Limit for Porters: If hiring a porter, pack light. The max load per porter is 7kg (15 lbs) including your sleeping bag & mattress.
Weather Considerations: Be prepared for cold nights, hot days, and sudden rain.

Your Adventure Plan

Day 1Cusco – KM 82 – Wayllabamba – Yuncachimpa

We begin our adventure early in the morning at 5:30 AM when the driver picks us up from our hotel in Cusco. We will drive through the Sacred Valley, seeing small villages and hills, and stop for breakfast in Ollantaytambo town.

After a brief stop for breakfast in Ollantaytambo, we will reach Km 82, the starting point of the trail. The first stretch will be a gentle hike along the Urubamba River, where we will admire views of snowy peaks and lush vegetation. We will stop at Llactapata, an Inca archaeological site showcasing terraced fields and ancient structures. Our guide will explain the significance of this site in Inca agriculture and trade.

As we continue through the valley, the trail will gradually ascend towards Wayllabamba, a small village surrounded by nature. From here, we will hike further to Yuncachimpa, where we will set up our first campsite. At night, we will enjoy a delicious dinner prepared by our team and relax under the starlit Andean sky.

Day 1 Statistics:

Distance: 12 km (7.5 miles)
Highest Altitude: 3,300 m (10,826 ft)
Lowest Altitude: 2,750 m (9,022 ft)

Difficulty Level: Easy to moderate

Day 2Yuncachimpa – Llulluchapampa – Paso Warmihuañusca – Pacaymayu – Paso Runkurakay – Chaquicocha

We will wake up early to prepare for the most challenging day of the tour. We start from Yuncachimpa and walk to Llulluchapampa Valley (3850 m / 12,631 ft). Next, we climb for 2-3 hours to the highest point: Warmihuañusca Pass, also known as Dead Woman’s Pass because of its shape, at 4200 m / 13,780 ft.

At an altitude of 4,215 m (13,828 ft), this pass will test our endurance, but it will reward us with stunning panoramic views. After a short break, we will descend into the Pacaymayo Valley, where we will stop for a hearty lunch to regain our energy.

In the afternoon, we will begin a second climb toward Runkurakay Pass. Along the way, we will visit a circular Inca ruin believed to have served as a lookout point. As the day ends, we will descend to Chaquicocha, where our campsite awaits. This peaceful spot will be the perfect place to relax and prepare for the next day.

Day 2 Statistics:

Distance: 16 km (10 miles)
Highest Altitude: 4,215 m (13,828 ft)
Lowest Altitude: 3,600 m (11,811 ft)

Difficulty Level: Challenging

Day 3Chaquicocha – Phuyupatamarca – Wiñay Wayna

We will begin the day by hiking through the cloud forest, marveling at the lush vegetation and vibrant birdlife. The trail will lead us to Phuyupatamarca, also known as “The Town Above the Clouds,” a stunning Inca site perched on the mountainside. Here, we will explore ceremonial platforms and agricultural terraces while enjoying breathtaking views.

Descending through the forest, we will encounter Wiñay Wayna, one of the most picturesque and well-preserved sites on the Inca Trail. This site features cascading terraces and intricate stone structures, providing insight into Inca innovation. We will explore the site before heading to our nearby campsite, where we will enjoy our final evening on the trail.

Day 3 Statistics:

Distance: 10 km (6.2 miles)
Highest Altitude: 3,650 m (11,975 ft)
Lowest Altitude: 2,650 m (8,694 ft)
Difficulty Level: Moderate

Day 4Wiñay Wayna – Machu Picchu – Cusco

After breakfast at 4:30 am, we will walk to the Sun Gate with our lights on and see Machu Picchu for the first time as the sun comes up. The final descent takes almost an hour before we reach Machu Picchu (2400m/7874ft) on foot, around 8:00 am.

This moment will be a highlight of the tour, offering an unforgettable view of the UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Our guided tour of Machu Picchu will provide us with fascinating insights into its history, architecture, and spiritual significance. We will explore temples, plazas, and terraces while learning about the advanced engineering of the Inca civilization.

After the tour, we will descend to Aguas Calientes, where we can enjoy lunch and explore the charming town. In the afternoon, we will take the train to Ollantaytambo and then drive back to Cusco, ending our trip.

Day 4 Statistics:

Distance: 5 km (3.1 miles) to the Sun Gate, plus exploration
Highest Altitude: 2,720 m (8,924 ft)
Lowest Altitude: 2,430 m (7,972 ft)
Difficulty Level: Moderate
Highest Altitude: 4,215 m (13,828 ft) at Dead Woman’s Pass
Lowest Altitude: 2,430 m (7,972 ft) at Machu Picchu
Difficulty: Moderate to challenging

Need help? Here it is

1Do we need to train before hiking the Inca Trail?

We recommend physical preparation, including cardio and strength training, for at least a month before the trek.

2Can we choose a vegetarian or vegan meal option?

Yes, we can accommodate vegetarian, vegan, or special dietary needs. Please let us know in advance.

3Are there bathrooms along the trail?

Basic toilets are available at campsites and some points along the trail, but facilities are limited.

4How difficult is the Classic Inca Trail?

The Classic Inca Trail is moderately challenging. It includes steep ascents and descents, but with preparation, it’s achievable for most trekkers.

5What is the best time to do the Classic Inca Trail?

The best months are April to October, during the dry season. The trail can be more challenging during the rainy season (November to March).

6Can we hire a private tour guide for the trek?

Yes, private guides are available upon request for an additional cost. Please inform us when making your reservation.

7Do I need to be in excellent physical condition?

While physical fitness helps, it is not necessary to be an expert hiker. Regular exercise and some preparation will make the trek more enjoyable.

8How high is the highest point on the Inca Trail?

The highest point of the trek is Dead Woman’s Pass, which is at an altitude of 4,215 meters (13,828 feet).

9How long is the Classic Inca Trail?

The trail is 43 kilometers (26.7 miles) long, and it usually takes 4 days and 3 nights to complete.

10Are there any age restrictions for the trek?

The minimum age for the trek is usually 12 years old. There is no upper age limit, but we suggest seeing a doctor if you’re over 60.

11What happens if I need to cancel or change my booking?

We have a clear cancellation policy. Please refer to the terms and conditions provided at the time of booking.

12Do I need to bring my passport on the trek?

Yes, you will need to carry your original passport for entry to the Inca Trail and Machu Picchu.

13Is there an option to extend my stay in Aguas Calientes or Cusco?

Yes, we can help arrange extra nights in either location. Just let us know when you book.

14Can we hike the Inca Trail if we have no previous trekking experience?

Yes, as long as you are in good health and prepared for the altitude, most people with little trekking experience can complete the trail.

1 Review

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Rous C.

Solo Traveller

Hiking the Classic Inca Trail to Machu Picchu was the most incredible journey of my life! The scenery was breathtaking, the ancient ruins along the way were fascinating, and reaching Inti Punku (Sun Gate) at sunrise was magical. Our guide was knowledgeable, the porters were amazing, and the food exceeded all expectations. This is a once-in-a-lifetime adventure!

September 20, 2024

Classic inca trail to Machu Picchu 4 days 3 nights

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