Inca Trail to Machu Picchu 4 Days

Details of the experience

Duration:

4 days and 3 nights

Difficulty:

High Difficulty

Maximum Altitude:

13,828 ft (Warmiwañusca Pass – Dead Woman's Pass)

Max Group:

16 people maximum (small groups)

Transport:

Tourist transport + return train + Cusco transfers

Tickets:

Incluye entradas.

Itinerary

Departure at 6:00 AM from the hotel by bus toward Piscacucho (Km 82, 2,700 m / 8,858 ft), the starting point of the trek. The route follows the left bank of the Urubamba River to Miskay (2,800 m / 9,186 ft), followed by an ascent to observe the Patallacta archaeological complex (2,750 m / 9,022 ft). We continue through the Kusichaca River valley until reaching Huayllabamba (3,000 m / 9,842 ft), our first campsite, featuring views of the Verónica snow-capped mountain (5,832 m / 19,134 ft) and a great diversity of flora and fauna.

Estimated hiking time: 6 hours
Campsite altitude: 3,000 m (9,842 ft) above sea level

Breakfast followed by the most demanding ascent of the trek, featuring a 9 km climb to the Puna Sierra and the Warmiwañusca Pass (4,215 m / 13,828 ft). Along the way, you can observe llamas, alpacas, and high-Andean birds, as well as Andean bears in the forested areas. Descent into the Pacaymayu valley (3,600 m / 11,811 ft) for the second campsite.

Estimated hiking time: 6 hours
Maximum altitude: 4,215 m / 13,828 ft
Campsite altitude: 3,600 m / 11,811 ft

Visit to the Runcurakay archaeological complex (3,800 m / 12,467 ft) followed by an ascent to the second pass (3,970 m / 13,025 ft). Descent to Yanacocha and continuation to Sayacmarca (3,624 m / 11,890 ft), a complex featuring narrow streets, fountains, and irrigation channels. Ascent to the third pass at Phuyupatamarca (3,700 m / 12,139 ft), known as the “Town Above the Clouds,” offering breathtaking views and Inca fountains. The trail then passes through an Inca tunnel and descends to Wiñaywayna (2,700 m / 8,858 ft), which houses an agricultural center and temples.

Estimated hiking time: 8 hours
Campsite altitude: 2,700 m (8,858 ft) above sea level.

Departure at 4:00 AM toward Intipunku (2,720 m / 8,924 ft), the Sun Gate, to witness the sunrise over Machu Picchu. A 40-minute descent leads to the citadel. Enjoy a 2-hour guided tour of the main sectors: the Temple of the Sun, the Temple of the Three Windows, Huayna Picchu (optional), the Temple of the Moon, and the Inca Bridge. Afterward, descend to Aguas Calientes for an optional visit to the hot springs before returning by train to Ollantaytambo. Finally, transfer by bus to Cusco, arriving approximately between 7:30 PM and 10:00 PM.

Estimated hiking time: 5 hours
Machu Picchu altitude: 2,430 m (7,972 ft) above sea level.

Includes

Transfer from your hotel to Km 82.
Entrance fees to the Inca Trail and Machu Picchu.
Professional guide (English and Spanish speaking).
Specialized cook.
Porters: For camping equipment and food.
Tents for the guide, cook, and porters.
Meals: 3 breakfasts / 3 lunches / 3 dinners.
Train ticket from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo.
Bus from Ollantaytambo to Cusco.
Tents, tables, chairs, dining tent, and kitchen tent.
Oxygen tank.
First aid kit.

Does not include

Not Included

Breakfast on the first day.
Lunch and dinner on the last day.
Entrance fees to the Aguas Calientes hot springs.
Sleeping bag.
Entrance to Huayna Picchu Mountain.
Tips.

Recommendations

It is recommended to arrive in Cusco at least 2 days in advance to acclimate to the altitude. Bring comfortable hiking clothes, sunscreen, a hat, and a reusable water bottle.
Original Passport: Must have an expiration date of no less than 7 months from the date of travel.
ISIC or Student Card: If applicable (must be submitted at the time of booking).
Hiking Boots and Sandals: Very important.
Trekking Poles: Can be rented at the agency.
Headlamp: Very important.
Camera and Spare Batteries.
Sunscreen, Hat, and Sunglasses.
Personal Medical Kit.
Insect Repellent.
Rain Gear: A high-quality waterproof jacket, rain pants, and a plastic rain poncho.
Toilet Paper.
Small Towel.
Extra Cash: For drinks, tips, souvenirs, etc. (Soles or Dollars).
Swimwear: For the hot springs (optional).
Water Bottle: 1 liter recommended.

Frequently Asked Questions

The classic Inca Trail has a high difficulty level, as it includes steep climbs, high-altitude passes, and hiking days that can last up to 8 hours. The most demanding section is the ascent to Warmiwañusca Pass, located at 4,215 meters (13,828 ft); therefore, good physical condition and proper prior acclimatization in Cusco are required.

The maximum altitude of the classic Inca Trail is 4,215 meters (13,828 ft) above sea level, reached at Warmiwañusca Pass, also known as Dead Woman’s Pass. This point is crossed on the second day of the trek and represents the greatest physical challenge of the journey.

During the four-day trek, you will visit important Inca archaeological complexes such as Patallacta, Runkurakay, Sayacmarca, Phuyupatamarca, and Wiñaywayna, in addition to entering Machu Picchu through Intipunku (the Sun Gate), following the original path used by the Incas.

Yes, it is mandatory to book several months in advance, as the classic Inca Trail has limited daily spots regulated by the Peruvian Ministry of Culture. These permits tend to sell out quickly, especially between the months of May and September.

During the classic Inca Trail, you will spend the nights in established campsites along the route, located in Huayllabamba, Pacaymayu, and Wiñayhuayna. On the final day, after visiting Machu Picchu, you return to Cusco without the need for additional accommodation.