The 4 Day Inca Trail

Introduction

The Inca Trail a famous trek in Peru that takes you through old paths built by the Incas hundreds of years ago leading right to Machu Picchu the Inca City that everyone talks about. You start from Cusco pick up in the morning and head to the starting point at Km 82 where the real walking begins. Along the way you pass ruins like Llactapata and campsites that feel remote.

The path mixes stone steps dirt trails and some steep parts that test your legs. People say it’s not just hiking but learning about Inca history from guides who know the stories. The group usually small so you chat with others sharing snacks or water. Weather changes fast sunny one minute then misty making the scenery shift.

You camp three nights with tents set up by porters who carry most gear leaving you with a daypack. Food cooked fresh like quinoa soups or grilled meats keeps energy up. By day four you reach the Sun Gate overlooking the whole site and it’s intense that moment hits hard after all the effort. I wonder if the Incas felt the same awe building it. The trail regulated strictly only 500 people daily including staff so permits go quick buy them months ahead.

Ending back in Cusco after a train ride from Aguas Calientes town below the ruins. The experience mixes physical push with cultural bits like seeing how Quechua folks live along the edges. Some parts easy flat others climb high over passes that leave you breathless literally from altitude. Acclimatize first in Cusco to avoid sickness that’s key.

Tours include everything permits transport meals but add your own twists like extra hikes. It’s approximately 42 kilometers total hiking spread over four days not too bad if fit. Groups up to 16 keep it personal no massive crowds. Languages English or Spanish guides switch as needed. Min age around 12 but check fitness. The path varies ecosystems from dry valleys to cloud forest bits teeming with birds orchids. Personal doubt is the rain if it hits hard trails get slippery but ponchos help. Intensity builds on day two the toughest climb then eases into rewarding views. Travelers rave about the arrival at dawn quiet before tourists flood in.

Trip Details

Duration: 4 Days / 3 Nights actually but some count 5 with Cusco prep
Activities: Trekking ruins visits cultural talks
Average Group Size: Up to 16 folks
Difficulty: Moderate with challenging climbs
Accommodation: Tents for three nights hotel in Cusco if extended
Tour Language: English Spanish
Hiking Distance: Approximately 42 km / 26 mi
Starts/Ends: Cusco / Cusco
Minimum Altitude: 7900 feet or so
Max Altitude: 13800 feet
Age Recommended: Min 12 years old
Is Necessary Acclimatization: Yes definitely
Tickets to entrance: Necessary buy in advance permits limited

Trip Summary

Day 1: Pickup Cusco hotel 5am drive to Ollantaytambo breakfast there then to Km 82 start hiking 7am cross Urubamba River visit Llactapata ruins lunch noon keep going to Wayllabamba camp arrive 5pm dinner rest.
Day 2: Breakfast 6am hit the trail up to Warmiwanusca Pass that’s Dead Woman’s at 4200m tough climb takes 4-5 hours lunch at top descend to Pacaymayo camp by 4pm intense day dude.
Day 3: Early start 7am pass Runkurakay ruins then Sayaqmarka lunch visit Phuyupatamarka descend to Winay Wayna camp arrive afternoon optional short hike to nearby site dinner.
Day 4: Up 4am trek to Intipunku Sun Gate by dawn overlook Inca City descend to site guided tour 2 hours free time then bus to Aguas Calientes train back Cusco arrive evening.

Why you'll love this tour

The history hits you hard walking those same stones the Incas laid down centuries ago passing sites like Runkurakay where you stop and think about their engineering skills no modern tools yet perfect fits in the rocks guides share tales that make it real and suddenly you’re hooked on the past mixed with today’s adventure. Over 50 words here feeling that connection deep.
Views change every turn one minute dry valley next lush green with waterfalls crashing down intensity ramps up at passes where you gasp but then the panorama opens wide rewarding the sweat travelers say it’s like earning the scenery not just seeing it from a bus.
Camping under stars porters set up tents cook hot meals like alpaca stew or fresh trout from rivers you bond with the group sharing stories around the fire it’s raw no hotels just nature but comfy enough with mats and bags the simplicity refreshing after city life.
Reaching the Inca City at sunrise through the Sun Gate that moment intense quiet no crowds yet just the group the mist lifts revealing the ruins below it’s a payoff that sticks with you forever dudes talk about chills down the spine.
Cultural immersion meeting local Quechua porters learning phrases or how they farm terraces still in use adds authenticity not touristy feels genuine like stepping into another world briefly.

Itinerary

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DAY 1 CUSCO – WAYLLABAMBA (lunch/dinner)

Our trekking team will collect you from your hotel early in the morning, to take a private bus to the town of Chilca at Km 82, which is the trailhead for the classic Inca Trail. We will begin to hike from here along an original Inca Trail, all the way to Machu Picchu.

The journey in bus is stunning and you will have the opportunity to view the spectacular Peruvian Andes. Our first stop will be for 20 minutes in the famous Inca town of “Ollantaytambo” after which we will continue to the trailhead at KM82. Here we will unpack the equipment and prepare for our 4-day hike, with the guide and our trekking team. (Please have your original passport in hand). After approximately 3 hours of trekking, we will reach a viewpoint, where we can appreciate a stunning archaeological site called “Llactapata” at the base of the mountains.

Tarayoc will be our lunch spot for the day and after lunch, we will continue to walk towards our first campsite at 3.000 metres elevation, called Wayllabamba. Here we will have our dinner before resting for the next days´ trekking.

DAY 2 WAYLLABAMBA – PACAYMAYO Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner

Early in the morning, we will be woken with a hot cup of tea, which will prepare us for this beautiful days´ trek. After breakfast, , we will hike the most difficult and surprising section of the trek, hiking to the highest part of the Inca Trail, where we will have a spectacular panoramic view of all of the mountains and where we can observe the different micro-climates (4.215 metres). After a six-hour hike, we will reach the first pass called Warmiwañusca or “Dead woman´s pass” where we will have the tremendous sense of achievement, mixed with the relief of having made the pass. After we have reached the summit, we will continue walking to Pacaymayo, where we will enjoy our lunch and set up camp for the night (altitude of 3,600m above sea-level).

DAY 3 PACAYMAYO – WIÑAYWAYNA Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner

We consider this the most beautiful section of the trek, as well as the longest due to the different micro-climate and the arrival to the cloud forest. After breakfast, the Trail leads us to the second highest pass of the trek at 3.950 metres elevation. Along the trail, you will enjoy a guided visit to Runkurakay archaeological site and the Inca citadel of Sayacmarca. Afterwards, we will continue trekking to Phuyupatamarca (village above the clouds), another important archaeological monument, where we will have our lunch. After a brief rest, the descent will take us to one of the most impressive sights on the Inca Trail, Wiñay Huayna (which means “always young”). Our campsite is near this archaeological complex, and we will leave our belongings here, as we head to the site for our guided tour of this archaeological complex. We will have dinner at the campsite, where we will have the chance to say goodbye to our incredible new friends, the cooks and porters and thank them for this incredible hike into The Andes.

DAY 4 WIÑAYWAYNA - MACHU PICCHU – CUSCO Breakfast

After breakfast, we will begin our hike for an hour and a half, through the cloud forest, to the Sungate (Inti Punku), where we will have our very first panoramic site of Machu Picchu. On arrival, to the archaeological site, we will enjoy a guided tour of approximately 2 hours, of this impressive archaeological site, visiting all of its most important monuments and temples. Machu Picchu is found at 2.400 metres above sea-level. After the tour of this extraordinary feat of engineering, we will have the time to take some final photos, before we take our bus down to the town of Aguas Calientes. From here, we will take or train back to the city of Cusco or Ollantaytambo (time and final destination is on your ticket). On arrival in Cusco, this marks the end of your incredible adventure.

Note (Students require a valid ISIC to apply for a student discount), Prices per person in US Dollars

Reviews

5.0 4.9 - 462 TripAdvisor Reviews

Discover what fellow travelers have to say about their journeys through Turkey. From breathtaking landscapes to rich cultural experiences, these reviews highlight the unforgettable moments that make each trip truly special.

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Oswaldo Luiz C

5.0

A Agencia primou pela qualidade. Tanto nas programações, excelentes guias, qualidade dos transportes, horários e pontualidade.

Ruan N

5.0

A agência Yacana foi perfeita! Organizou nossos passeios no Peru da melhor forma possível, nos deu todo suporte que precisamos, independentemente do horário, nos deu dicas valiosas para os passeios, sugestões, além do acompanhamento de tudo ao longo dos dias....

Sunshine60374635165

5.0

Experiência indescritível! Fomos em 2 casais para o Peru e contratamos absolutamente todos os passeios com a Yacana. Vale Sagrado, Machu Picchu, 7 lagunas, montanha colorida, city tour cusco e islas ballestas e oasis em Lima. Segurança impecável, pontualidade perfeita...

Diego R

5.0

Experiência incrível, passeios todos bem feitos com a Yacana. Guias muitos preparados e prestativos, em especial a Rosa. Recomendo!

Daniele P

5.0

A agência tem um excelente atendimento, faz adaptações e oferece os melhores passeios, além de todo o pós venda que captura os feedbacks de forma atenta e cuidadosa. Recomendo para todos que posso os serviços da Yacana.

Flávia F

5.0

Tivemos ótima experiência com nossos tour! Equipe pontual, muito organizada, guias bem preparados e simpáticos . Empresa de confiança!

Tamara F

5.0

Tivemos uma experiencia maravilhosa com o guia Robert e motorista Hernan no passeio a Wanacancha + Pisac! O Robert é uma simpatia e cheio de cultura - um professor!!! Recomendamos muito!!

Miliani Greco

5.0

Desde o início do atendimento até a execução do que contratamos, foram extremamente atenciosos e pontuais. Não precisávamos nos preocupar com nada, apenas em curtir o Peru e suas belezas.

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Included

Pre-trek briefing.
Pick-up from your hotel and transfer to the trailhead at km 82
Personal Tent: 2 people sharing a 4-person tent for extra comfort and safe storage of your backpacks.
Professional trekking guide (English speaking) with 2 guides for groups of more than 8 people.
Chef and cooking equipment.
Porter/muleteer to carry tents, cooking equipment and food for the 4 days.
A duffle bg for upto 6kg weight allowance
Food (3 breakfasts, 3 lunches and 3 dinners and 3 snacks) daily snacks and tea service, except for the final day). Vegetarian menus or any special menus available at no extra cost.
A recycled cloth bag to avoid use of plastic on the trek and to help protect the environment
Biodegradable soap.
Train (return)to Aguas Calientes (Expedition Service).
Bus ticket to Aguas Calientes.
Others: Hot water each day in the morning and evening to wash / and boiled water to fill your water bottle for the days trekking. (Please ask in advance to boil enough water.
Emergency first aid kit with an oxygen tank.
Train from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo (Expedition Service).
Transfer from Ollantaytambo to your Cusco hotel.
Personal assistance 24 hours per day in Spanish and English.

Not Included

Lunch after the guided tour of Machu Picchu.
Optional extra night in Aguas Calientes.
Alcoholic drinks.
Sleeping bag.
Entrance to Huayna Picchu mountain or Machu Picchu Mountain (Ask for availability).
Tips/ Gratuities.
Extra Services.

What to Bring

Passport original needed at checkpoints without it no entry keep in waterproof bag with copies just in case.
Daypack small 20-30 liters for water snacks camera porters carry big stuff but you haul essentials all day comfy straps important.
Sleeping bag rated to zero degrees nights cold at high camps rent if no own but bring liner for hygiene.
Layers clothing quick dry shirts fleece jacket for evenings base layer thermals weather shifts fast.
Rain poncho or jacket wet season November to April but anytime clouds dump bring covers for pack too.
Hiking boots broken in ankle support key trails rocky uneven blisters suck bring moleskin.
Water bottle refillable at least 1 liter purified tablets or filter streams not always clean hydration crucial altitude dries you out.
Snacks energy bars nuts personal favorites meals provided but extra boosts help on climbs.
Sunscreen hat sunglasses UV strong even cloudy burn easy up high.
Toiletries biodegradable soap wipes paper small towel hygiene basic no showers most camps.
Medications altitude pills ibuprofen personal meds first aid kit from tour but your stuff backup.
Camera or phone charger power bank no outlets on trail capture those views.
Cash soles for tips porters guides maybe 200-300 total souvenirs in Aguas Calientes.
Walking poles rubber tips for stone paths rent if needed ease knees on descents.
Torch headlamp for early mornings dark camps batteries extra.

Is this trip right for you?

If you’re into moderate hikes with some steep bits and can handle altitudes up to about 13800 feet this fits but expect sore muscles day two’s pass killer yet manageable with training beforehand think stair climbing or hill walks to prep no couch potatoes here. Around 45 words intensity in the push.
Folks who dig history and adventure combo you’ll thrive learning Inca facts while trekking but if you hate camping or roughing it skip this porters help but it’s tents not luxury doubt if sensitive to cold nights.
Active families with kids over 12 could love it bonds you but check everyone’s fitness altitude sickness real acclimatize in Cusco first or risk headaches nausea that ruins the fun.
Travelers seeking solitude nah groups up to 16 and trail busy but early starts beat crowds if you prefer quiet hikes maybe not intense social vibe though.
If budget allows for guided tours yes everything handled permits food gear carried just walk and enjoy but cheapskates might balk at costs around 600 bucks minimum.

Pricing

CONSIDERATIONS:

To guarantee your entrance ticket to Machu Picchu, the government regulations require your complete passport information for all passengers. The permits are not transferable and may sell out. We recommend that you reserve with 4 months anticipation.

The Huayna Picchu climb, is an excellent option on a trip to Machu Picchu. The climb offers spectacular views of Machu Picchu but is a steep climb, lasting 3 hours approximately.

Entrance permits to Huayna Picchu are limited and have a programmed entrance time; visitors should reserve permits con anticipation if you would like to climb a mountain. While it is considered an easier climb than the 4-day Inca Trail, hikers should still be in decent physical condition.

Additional Information.

During the trip, you can store your main luggage in our office or in your hotel at no extra cost.
If you are vegetarian, or have special dietary requirements, please let us know at the time of booking.
The service INCLUDES a duffle bag and porter to carry a total of 6 kg of personal items for each trekker. (Sleeping bag 2 kg and mattress + 4 kg of personal items).
It is the trekkers responsibility to provide us with Passports and other Immigration documents required by the authorities of the countries, destinations or transit countries such as visas, health documents, special permissions for travelling with children etc. Your Passport should have a minimum of 6 months validity from your date of travel. (If the passenger has renewed their Passport since the booking process, you must advise us immediately to make the necessary changes as we will make all of your ticket reservations with the passport information provided
The original valid ISIC card needs to be produced if you are a student and have applied for a student discount.
Travel Insurance.
Spare money in small denominations in Nuevos Soles.
A day pack.
Rain clothing (waterproof jacket and trousers are recommended).
We recommend comfortable, waterproof walking shoes.
Sandals (to let your feet rest at the campsite).
Warm clothing, a fleece and thermal under garments for the cold weather at the campsites.
Sombrero o gorra (para protegerte del sol, la lluvia y el frío).
Sun block /protection.

Insect Repellent: the minimum recommended is 20% de DEET (be aware that there have been reported cases of malaria on this trip.

Camera and charger / batteries (be aware that batteries run down much quicker in cold weather and at altitude).
Torch/ flash light + batteries.
A small hand towel.
Swim suit to visit the thermal springs in Aguas Calientes and Lares.
Snacks (biscuits, energy bars, chocolate, dried fruit, etc.).

Bear in mind that we offer a daily snack allowance as well as an extensive breakfast lunch and dinner. The recommendation to take snacks is only for those who have specific snack preferences that may not be included in the food we provide.

Bottled water for the first morning and a water bottle/ container to refill along the route.

Special Instructions:

Please confirm your hotel details at least 1 week before your tour.

Pick-up time: 6:00-6:15 am from your hotel (every day including bank holidays).

The transport will do a number of pick-ups from different hotels in Cusco which is why there is not an exact time. Please be ready and waiting in your hotel lobby.

Departure place: Your Cusco hotel.
Drop of at: Plaza San Francisco in the centre of Cusco.

RENTALS AND UPGRADES:

Vistadome Train (One Way) – US$55.00
Entrance to Huayna Picchu o Machu Picchu Mountain (subject to availability) – US$70.00
Walking Sticks – US$20.00

Sleeping bag – US$20.00 pp.
Paquete de Lujo (Sleeping bag + Almohadas y Fundas) – US$30.00 pp.
Tienda Privada – US$30.00

Updgrades

Extra personal porter hire one for 7kg of your gear approximately 80 USD useful if back issues or want light load porters already carry group stuff but this personal touch eases the trek no need if fit but nice luxury.
Sleeping bag rental if not bringing own about 20 USD high quality down keeps warm nights drop to 0C essential unless you pack your own doubt quality of some but tours provide good ones.
Vistadome train upgrade return from Aguas Calientes panoramic windows snacks included around 50 USD better views than standard train worth it for comfort after hiking tired legs.
Huayna Picchu climb ticket extra hike at Inca City steep but views killer buy advance 30 USD limited spots daily intense add-on for adventurers but skip if heights scare.
Walking poles rental pair for the trail 15 USD adjustable with tips protect joints on steps many use them essential for some on descents.
Vegetarian or special meal option no extra cost but request advance if dietary needs tours accommodate but confirm.
Extra night Aguas Calientes hotel post trek relax soak in hot springs about 100 USD including breakfast useful if train late or want more time.

Travel Guide

Recommendations

Book permits six months ahead since caps sell out fast half reserved for staff. Acclimatize in Cusco or Sacred Valley for at least two nights.

Climate

Temperatures range from ten degrees under sun to near zero at night. Afternoon showers possible November to March. UV intensity high year round.

Best Season

May to October offers dry trails and stable skies. Rainy season November to April brings slippery stone steps and swollen streams.

How To Dress

Layer base moisture-wick layer fleece mid-layer waterproof shell. Avoid cotton. Include gloves and buff for wind chill.

Physical Preparation

Train with uphill hikes stair climbing and weighted backpack sessions for six weeks. Include high-intensity intervals for stamina.

Local People

You meet Quechua families raising llamas and alpaca wearing hand woven textiles. They trade potatoes in market stalls and often nod greetings.

Who Should Go

Suitable for fit teens solo hikers and small groups seeking history and mountain challenge. Not for first-time altitude trekkers without acclimatization.

Food On Route

Meals combine rice quinoa vegetables local cheese and occasional chicken or alpaca. Breakfasts feature porridge with dried fruits lunches packed wraps and soups dinners include pasta potatoes and herbal teas after.

Faqs

How far is the daily hiking distance on the Inca Trail?

You trek approximately ten to fifteen kilometers per day with elevation gains up to seven hundred meters and descents around nine hundred meters.

When should I book my permit for the Inca Trail?

Permits sell out quickly so apply through a registered agency at least six months in advance to ensure availability.

What is the highest pass on this trail?

Dead Woman’s Pass is the summit at about four two hundred meters making it the toughest climb on the route.

Can I drink water from streams along the way?

Natural springs are available but you need purification tablets or a portable filter to make water safe.

Are camping tents provided or do I bring my own?

Local staff provide two-person tents sleeping mats and dining tents so you only need your own sleeping bag.

How cold does it get at night during the trek?

Temperatures can drop to minus two or minus five degrees at higher camps so a sleeping bag rated below zero is advisable.

Is there cellphone signal along the Inca Trail?

Signal is intermittent near lower camps and disappears completely above the first mountain pass.

Do I need travel insurance for this trek??

Yes insurance covering medical evacuation and high-altitude rescue is mandatory so carry a copy and policy number.

How much should I tip guides and porters?

A standard guideline is about ten percent of the tour cost divided among team members though it remains optional.

What accommodations follow the final day at Machu Picchu?

After the walk you travel by bus to Aguas Calientes then train back to Cusco arriving by early afternoon to your hotel.

Can children under twelve join the Inca Trail?

Minimum recommended age is twelve though fitness level and previous altitude experience matter more than age alone.

Are meals suitable for vegetarians on route?

Yes lunches and dinners accommodate vegetarians but inform agency ahead so they adjust menus accordingly.

How many participants are on average in each group?

Groups range up to sixteen people allowing personal space yet enough company for conversation and aid.

What gear can I rent if I lack cold-weather equipment?

Rentals often include sleeping bags rated to minus ten and inflatable mattresses for added warmth and comfort.

How long is the final stretch from Sun Gate to Machu Picchu?

After the Sun Gate you walk about two kilometers down stone paths taking roughly an hour to reach the Inca City entrance.

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