Inca Trail Classic 4 Day

Inca Trail Classic 4 Day

Starting from $ 749.00

Per person in group Service

Duration:

4 Days

Departure Frequency

Daily

Group Size:

Minimum 2 – Maximum 8 (for an intimate, personalized experience)

Physical Rating

5 (Challenging)

Inca Trail Adventure: 4-Day Trek to the Sacred Peaks

Embark on an unforgettable journey along the legendary Inca Trail, one of the world’s most awe-inspiring hiking routes. This mystical trek to Machu Picchu leads you through breathtaking landscapes, ancient ruins, and sacred Incan pathways. As you conquer this challenging adventure, you’ll connect deeply with the past, surrounded by stunning natural beauty and cultural wonders. Each step unveils panoramic vistas of towering peaks, lush valleys, and the majestic Machu Picchu Sanctuary, leaving you with memories to last a lifetime. More than a hike, this is a transformative odyssey for the adventurer seeking to immerse themselves in the heart of Peru’s rich heritage and untouched nature. Let the trail awaken your spirit and ignite your inner explorer!

 

Why Choose This Tour?

  • Elite Inca Warriors: Experience the best of the Inca Trail with top-tier porters (the backbone of your adventure) and skilled chefs, preparing exquisite meals along the way.
  • Exclusive Entrance Through the Sun Gate: Witness the majestic beauty of Machu Picchu from the iconic Sun Gate, offering panoramic views that few visitors ever experience.
  • Diverse & Scenic Trails: Trek through breathtaking landscapes, from lush jungles to towering peaks, with ancient ruins and awe-inspiring vistas at every turn.
  • Award-Winning Experience: Led by Peru’s top-rated guides, our agency is trusted by travelers worldwide, earning accolades on TripAdvisor and Google for exceptional service and unforgettable adventures.

DAY 1

Cusco – Km 82 – Wayllabamba

Your unforgettable adventure begins with an early 4:00 AM hotel pickup in Cusco, where we’ll travel through the breathtaking Sacred Valley to Ollantaytambo by bus, and then onward to Km 82. Here, you’ll enjoy a delicious breakfast prepared by our expert chef, setting the tone for the day ahead. After registering to officially begin the Inca Trail, you’ll meet your dedicated trekking team.

From Km 82, we’ll embark on a relaxed 3-hour hike, passing through stunning landscapes and the fascinating Patallacta archaeological site, where your guide will share the rich history of this ancient Inca settlement. Continuing to Tarayoc, we’ll stop for a nourishing lunch.

After a refreshing break, we’ll hike for another 3 hours through enchanting valleys, passing small native communities, fertile farming areas, and vibrant flora and fauna, all framed by magnificent mountain views. Our day concludes in the tranquil Wayllabamba community, where you’ll enjoy a savory dinner and settle into your comfortable tents under the starry sky, preparing for the next chapter of your Inca Trail journey.

Start time (hike): 09:30am
Hiking Distance: 11 km/ 6.21miles
Hiking Time: 06 hours
Physical Rating: Moderate
Lowest Elevation: 2720m/8920ft
Highest Elevation: 3100m/10170ft
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner (Plus snack and afternoon tea)
Accommodation: Camping
Adventure: Absolutely, completely satisfactory

DAY 2

Wayllabamba – Pacaymayo

Start your day at 5:30 AM with a warm cup of coca tea, helping you acclimate to the high altitude before we embark on another unforgettable adventure. After a hearty breakfast, lovingly prepared by our expert chef, we’ll begin our challenging 5-hour hike to the summit of Warmihuañusca (Dead Woman’s Pass), the highest point on the Inca Trail. As we ascend, the rugged Andes Mountains unfold before you, offering awe-inspiring views that make every step of the climb worth it.

Upon reaching the summit, take a moment to pause and soak in the breathtaking panoramic vistas that stretch endlessly across the landscape. Afterward, we’ll begin our descent for about 2 hours, traversing lush valleys and scenic terrain, until we arrive at our peaceful campsite in Pacaymayo.

At Pacaymayo, indulge in a delicious, energizing lunch before taking the afternoon to rest and recharge. Surrounded by the serene beauty of the mountains, you’ll have time to relax and reflect on the day’s accomplishments. As the evening falls, retreat to your cozy tent beneath a starry sky, ready for the next thrilling chapter of your Inca Trail journey.

Start time (hike): 06:45 am
Hiking Distance: 12km/ 7.4miles
Hiking Time: 08 hours
Physical Rating: Demanding
Lowest Elevation: 3100m/10170ft
Highest Elevation: 4215m/13,828ft
Campsite Elevation:3600m/11811ft
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, & Dinner (Plus snack and afternoon tea)
Accommodation: Camping
Adventure: Absolutely

DAY 3

Pacaymayo – Phuyupatamarca – Wiñaywayna

Start your day with a rejuvenating cup of hot coca tea at 5:30 AM, followed by a hearty breakfast to fuel us for another exhilarating day on the Inca Trail. We’ll begin our hike at 6:45 AM, heading towards the Runkuracay Pass (3950m), the second highest point on the trail. From here, you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking views of the majestic Vilcanota Mountain Range and the sacred Waqaywillka Glacier, a vital Inca landmark.

Today’s hike is truly special, as we explore a collection of remarkable Inca sites, including Runkuracay, Sayacmarka, Phuyupatamarca, Intipata, and Wiñayhuayna. Your expert guide will provide fascinating insights into the history and significance of these ancient temples, enriching your journey with the mystical legacy of the Incas. As we trek through the lush cloud forest, you’ll encounter vibrant flora, exotic flowers, and diverse birdlife in their natural habitat, making this part of the trail a nature lover’s paradise.

We’ll stop for a delicious lunch at Phuyupatamarca, where you can take in spectacular vistas of the sacred mountains. Afterward, we’ll continue downhill to our campsite at Wiñayhuayna, where you’ll have the opportunity to explore one of the most striking Inca sites on the trail. With its magnificent terraces and well-preserved structures, Wiñayhuayna is a must-see.

As the day winds down, we’ll gather for a satisfying dinner and a heartfelt thank-you ceremony to honor our dedicated porters and chefs, whose hard work and dedication have made this life-changing journey possible.

Start time (hike): 06:45 am
Hiking Distance: 16km/ 9.9miles
Hiking Time: 10 hours
Physical Rating: Demanding
Lowest Elevation: 2650m/8.694ft
Highest Elevation: 3950m/12.959ft
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Camping
Adventure: Absolutely

DAY 4

The Grand Finale – Machu Picchu!

Start your day early at 3:30 AM with a 1.5-hour hike to the Sun Gate, where you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views of the awe-inspiring Machu Picchu. After soaking in the views, descend for 45 minutes to the iconic photo spot and witness the magical sunshine as the light touches this ancient wonder. Capture the moment before heading to the entrance, where you’ll show your passport and embark on a 2-hour guided tour. Unveil the mysteries of this World Wonder as you explore its temples, terraces, palaces, and the remarkable engineering feats that continue to astound visitors from around the globe.

For those seeking more adventure, if you’ve pre-booked tickets, you can hike Huayna Picchu (3 hours) for a challenging but rewarding experience. Alternatively, enjoy the tranquility of the site at your own pace. Afterward, take the bus back to Aguas Calientes for a well-deserved break. Relax, enjoy lunch, or explore the artisan market before boarding the train at 2:55 PM, 3:20 PM, or 3:45 PM to Ollantaytambo. From there, a private bus will transport you back to your hotel in Cusco, arriving around 6:30 PM or 7:30 PM, depending on your train schedule.

Note: Only day packs (up to 25L) are allowed inside Machu Picchu. No trekking poles are permitted. Larger bags can be stored at the entrance for a 5-soles fee.

Start Time (Wiñayhuayna): 4:30 AM 
Hiking Distance: 5 km / 3.10 miles
Hiking Time: 2-3 hours
Physical Rating: Moderate to Demanding
Lowest Elevation: 2,000 meters / 6,561 feet
Highest Elevation: 2,750 meters / 9,022 feet
Meals: Packed Lunch, Snacks, and Dinner
Adventure Rating: 

Truly rewarding and unforgettable!

Included:

No Included:

What to Bring

Price per person:

$749 USD

Group service

$1249 USD

2 Travelers

$ 30 USD

3-4 Travelers

$999 USD

5-6 Travelers

$799 USD

7–8 Travelers

Special Discounts

(valid student card required)

Save $30 USD

Students (18–25)

(passport required at booking)

Save $30 USD

Minors (Under 18)

(passport required at booking)

Save $35 USD

Children (Under 11)

Price per person:

$1249 USD

2 Travelers

Price per person:

$ 30 USD

3-4 Travelers

Price per person:

$999 USD

5-6 Travelers

Price per person:

$799 USD

7–8 Travelers

Briefings

Just to keep you informed, all the trek briefings will be held either at our office or hotel the night before at 6:30 PM. In case this time slot does not work for you, please contact one of our team members and they will help you arrange another time. These briefings will last for approximately 30-45 minutes and you will receive your duffel bags during this time.

If you have already booked the 2D/1N Inca Trail Trek with a hotel, you won’t need a separate briefing. Our office staff will check all the details required during your check-in time.

Get ready for an unforgettable trek! During your briefing, you’ll receive duffel bags to carry your personal belongings and clothing. These bags will be carried by your porters and returned to you at each campsite, so you can focus on enjoying the journey. With maximum dimensions of 66cm in length by 36cm in width (or 2 feet in length by 1 foot in width) and a weight limit of 7kg, you’ll have everything you need to take on the adventure ahead. To make the most of your trek, allocate 4kg for your personal belongings and clothing and 3kg for your sleeping bag and pad. Let’s make this an experience to remember!

At Peru Hikers, we offer a unique service where we pick you up directly from your hotel. If your hotel is located in the center of Cusco City, we will arrange a pickup time during the briefing with your guide. Please note that the pickup time may vary between 30-45 minutes depending on traffic conditions and previous pickups.

Cusco is an old city with narrow streets and passageways, which can make it challenging for cars to pass through. Smaller hotels and Airbnbs are often situated on hillsides with long steep climbs, making it difficult to carry luggage. Therefore, we recommend booking a hotel that is more easily accessible to you. For some treks, pickups are available in the Sacred Valley.

Here are the pickup locations for each trek:

Inca Trail: Cusco, Urubamba, Yanahuara and Ollantaytambo
Salkantay Trek: Only Cusco
Lares Trek: Cusco and Pisac
Rainbow Mountain Trek: Only Cusco
Day Tours: Cusco, Urubamba and Ollantaytambo.

I hope this helps! Let me know if you have any further questions.

It is crucial to be completely honest with your guide about any health conditions or concerns you may have. Although our guides are not medical experts, they have received training in first aid. Furthermore, we have a partnership with a clinic in Cusco that can provide additional assistance to our team.

Ultimately, it is up to you to decide whether a Tour is suitable for you. We recommend that you consult with your doctor to confirm your ability to travel and participate in planned activities. Your doctor can also advise you on necessary vaccinations and medical precautions. Peru Hikers does not offer medical advice. It is your responsibility to evaluate the potential risks and requirements of each aspect of the Tour based on your circumstances, limitations, fitness level, and medical needs.

In case of inclement weather, we are happy to collaborate with you to schedule a new trip. Please keep in mind that this may result in additional fees, but we will strive to keep costs as low as possible by using as much of the original itinerary as possible.

If you experience any health or fitness issues that prevent you from continuing the hike, a porter will accompany you to the nearest road and remain with you until transportation arrives to take you to the nearest health clinic.

Embark on an unforgettable journey to Machu Picchu and choose between a morning or afternoon visit. Your entrance ticket will grant you exclusive access to explore this historic site during your designated time slot. Please note that once your session has concluded, the Rangers will politely ask visitors to exit the site.

The morning session runs from 6:00 AM to 12:00 PM while the afternoon session runs from 12:00 PM to 5:30 PM. If you have tickets to hike Huaynapicchu or Machu Picchu Mountain, you will have extra time until 2:30 PM.

If you wish to spend the entire day at Machu Picchu, we can include an afternoon session ticket to your booking for an additional $50 per person.

To get the best view of Machu Picchu, many tourists hike nearby mountains after their tour. If you’re interested in hiking Huaynapicchu, you should know that due to its popularity, you need to make a booking. It typically takes 45 minutes to ascend and 45 minutes to descend. Tickets are available for specific time slots indicating when you can start your hike. The first session is from 7-8 AM, and the second is from 10-11 AM. We recommend booking the first session to have ample time to enjoy your guided tour before the hike starts. Although you’ll be navigating the trail independently, your guide will direct you to the starting point, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience.

Machu Picchu Mountain is less crowded than Huayna Picchu Mountain, but requires a longer hike of 1.5 hours to reach the top and another 1.5 hours to descend. There are two available time slots, 7-8 AM and 9-10 AM, and we recommend the latter. If you’ve booked a 4-day or 7-day Inca Trail Trek, you cannot participate in this hike and the tour of the ruins due to time constraints. By choosing to hike either mountain, you’ll have additional time to explore the ruins once the hike is completed.

To ensure your safety and peace of mind while traveling, it is crucial to have travel protection. Unexpected medical emergencies or illnesses before your trip can result in lost payments for non-refundable expenses. In remote locations, emergency medical transport and air ambulances can be expensive, and your regular health insurance may not cover them, so purchasing personal travel insurance is essential. Your insurance should cover personal accidents, medical expenses, air ambulance services, repatriation costs, and all other expenses. Many insurance companies offer travel protection plans that can be purchased online. It is crucial to have coverage for adventure activities.

Our group tours are designed to cater to individuals of all ages and hiking abilities. It’s important to note that some members may move at a different pace than others. However, we have a knowledgeable guide who will ensure everyone is included and the group’s needs are met. Please don’t worry, your safety and enjoyment are our top priorities.

It’s essential to keep track of your personal belongings throughout your journey. Please be attentive to where you leave your items and retrieve everything from the bus, tent, restaurant, and other places you visit. When hiking, leave everything alone, as other trekkers or groups may pick it up without knowing who it belongs to.

The weather in Peru varies depending on the region you visit. It is generally hot along the coast, but during the dry season from April to August, it can get chilly in the early morning and at night. The Andes of Cusco have two primary seasons – wet and dry. The wet season occurs from November to April and is usually warmer overall. On the other hand, the dry season runs from May to October and has hot, clear days but cold nights. Predicting Peruvian weather accurately is challenging because you might experience clear, hot days in the middle of the wet season or hail storms in the dry season. But that’s the beauty of Peru.

The main reason for altitude sickness is ascending to high altitudes too rapidly. It takes time for your body to adjust to the reduction in oxygen at different elevations. This adjustment process is called acclimatization and usually requires 1 to 3 nights at the current altitude.

To prevent altitude sickness, it’s best to take it slow during the first 24 hours and not push yourself too hard. If you’re above 10,000ft (3,047m), increase your sleeping elevation by 1,000ft (305m) each day and take a rest day for every 3,000ft (915m) of height gained. If you experience moderate altitude sickness symptoms, go higher once they improve. If they worsen, move to a lower altitude. It’s important to remember that everyone acclimatizes at different rates. Staying hydrated is crucial, as is avoiding tobacco, alcohol, tranquilizers, and sleeping pills. A high-carbohydrate diet can also help. And finally, take your time when first arriving at altitude.

Diamox (acetazolamide) can help improve breathing and oxygen uptake by changing acid balance in the body, similar to the natural acclimatization process but at a faster rate. Dexamethasone, a steroid medication, can reduce swelling in the brain and other body areas, potentially reversing any adverse effects.

In Latin America, it’s customary to give a tip of around 10% to service providers, like servers, depending on the quality of service. While tipping isn’t mandatory, it’s expected, and anything extra is a way to show your satisfaction with the assistance provided during your journey. This gesture dramatically benefits the people caring for you during your trip. If you feel that your trekking guide and support team did an exceptional job, tipping is greatly appreciated. The suggested amount varies depending on the trek, and it’s recommended that each hiker contributes to a collective pool. While the amount for the guide is more personal, it’s the most welcomed. Ultimately, the decision to tip is up to you and what you’re comfortable leaving.

Trekking Crew
Inca Trail (4 and 5 days)
Porter 60- 80 soles
Chef 160 soles

If you are an international traveler heading to Cusco, you should know that the airport in Cusco only operates domestic flights. This means you must disembark in Lima and go through Customs before continuing your journey to Cusco, even if your flight to Cusco is on the same day and with the same airline carrier. Please remember to get your bags in Lima and check them back before your flight to Cusco.

Flying is the best way to get to Cusco, and there are several airlines to choose from. LAN tends to be expensive but offers the most options and flights. However, please be aware that flight delays and cancellations are common due to the high altitude of Cusco, which makes landing difficult, and any inclement weather can halt air traffic.

Taking a bus is strongly encouraged if you travel from a city closer to Cusco, like Puno. Although the trip can be long, the buses in Peru are very well-maintained and comfortable. However, if you are traveling from Lima, the bus journey can take up to 20 hours.

(valid student card required)

Save $30 USD

Students (18–25)

(passport required at booking)

Save $30 USD

Minors (Under 18)

(passport required at booking)

Save $35 USD

Children (Under 11)

Extra Options

  1. Huayna Picchu Hike: Thrilling climb with panoramic views. Guide available for an extra fee of $ 75 USD.
  2. Machu Picchu Mountain Hike: Longer hike for stunning vistas. Guide available for an extra fee of $ 75 USD..
  3. Vistadome Train Upgrade: Panoramic train experience – $75 USD per person.
  4. Sleeping Bag Rental: High-quality sleeping bags – $20 USD per trek.
  5. Walking Pole Rental: Trekking poles – $15 USD per pole.
Inca Trail Classic 4 Day FAQs
1. What is the best time to hike the Inca Trail?

The best time to hike the Inca Trail is during the dry season, from April to October. This period offers the most favorable weather conditions for trekking, with clear skies and moderate temperatures. May to September is the peak season, so book early to secure permits.

The Inca Trail is moderate to challenging, requiring a good level of fitness. You’ll be trekking for about 6 to 8 hours per day, with some steep ascents and high-altitude sections. The highest point is Dead Woman’s Pass at 4,215 meters (13,828 feet). Proper acclimatization in Cusco (ideally 1-2 days) is crucial to minimize altitude sickness.

Yes, permits for the Inca Trail are mandatory, and they sell out quickly. Only 500 permits per day are available, and these include guides and porters. It’s recommended to book your trek at least 6 months in advance to secure your spot, especially during peak season.

Included in the trek are:

  • Professional Guides with in-depth knowledge of Inca history and culture
  • Porters to carry your camping equipment and personal belongings (7 kg/14 lbs per person)
  • Gourmet meals prepared by a professional chef
  • Camping equipment, including tents and sleeping mats
  • Entrance fees to the Inca Trail and Machu Picchu
  • Transportation to and from your hotel in Cusco and train tickets to Aguas Calientes

Yes, you can hike Huayna Picchu after your guided tour of Machu Picchu if you have pre-booked tickets. Huayna Picchu takes 45 minutes to climb, but it’s steep and requires a ticket that needs to be secured at least two months in advance.

Essentials include:

  • Original passport
  • Comfortable walking boots
  • Waterproof jacket and rain poncho
  • Warm layers (it can be cold, especially at night)
  • Sun protection (hat, sunscreen, sunglasses)
  • Personal medications and a first aid kit
  • Snacks and a water bottle
    (See full list of suggested items in our “What to Bring” section.)

The trek reaches 4,215 meters (13,828 feet) at Dead Woman’s Pass, so proper acclimatization is essential. Spending 1-2 days in Cusco before the trek is recommended. If you feel unwell, our guides are trained in altitude sickness management and can assist.

Yes, all meals from Day 1 to Day 4 are included, and you’ll enjoy a variety of gourmet Peruvian meals prepared by our professional chef. Vegetarian and special diet options are available upon request. Lunch and dinner on the last day are not included, but you can enjoy local cuisine in Aguas Calientes.

The rainy season is from November to March, but during the dry season, showers are possible, especially in the afternoons. Bring a waterproof jacket/poncho to stay dry. In case of extreme weather conditions, our guides are experienced in making adjustments for safety.

Yes, you can store extra luggage at your hotel in Cusco or our office. Only a small daypack (up to 25L-35L) and your duffle bags (carried by porters) you will take on the trail. We recommend packing light and leaving your unnecessary items behind.

After your visit to Machu Picchu, you can take the bus back down to Aguas Calientes. This bus ride is included in your package, and it takes around 25 minutes.

The Inca Trail is generally safe, but it’s important to stay alert like any adventure. Guides are trained in first aid, and emergency evacuation protocols are in place. We also provide rescue oxygen for altitude sickness.

There are no showers available along the Inca Trail; however, we provide a bucket of hot water for personal cleansing every morning and afternoon to ensure you feel refreshed. Basic toilet facilities are available along the route. To promote environmental sustainability and enhance comfort, we also set up a private toilet tent with biodegradable toilets at each campsite.

The classic 4-day Inca Trail covers approximately 43 kilometers (26 miles), winding through diverse landscapes and Inca ruins, before reaching Machu Picchu.

Booking your 4-day Inca Trail is simple! Head to the Inca Trail Booking section or click the booking button. Choose your desired travel date, complete the contact information form, and select your payment method. You can confirm your reservation by paying either 50% or 100% of the total trip cost.

We offer two payment options through WeTravel:

  • Bank Transfer: Includes a 1% commission.
  • Credit/Debit Card: Subject to a 3.5% commission or based on your card provider’s terms.

Pick the option that suits you best, and you’ll be ready for an unforgettable adventure!

Why Travel with Us

Sustainable Tourism

Peru Hikers promotes responsible and sustainable tourism in the Andes while benefiting local communities.

Best Destinations

We provide unforgettable adventure and cultural destinations such as Machu Picchu, Cusco, Sacred Valley, and Rainbow Mountain.

Small Groups

Traveling in small groups offers genuine and unforgettable experiences, building personal relationships and forming cherished memories.

Only the Best Local Guides

Our tour guides are passionate storytellers who love showcasing their hometowns and taking visitors beyond the obvious.

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