Discover the magnificent 4-day Inca Trail to Machu Picchu! This exciting tour will take you along an ancient Inca hiking trail, across suspension bridges and with never-ending stunning, panoramic views. Hike up the mountain to the famous ancient archaeological site of Machu Picchu and discover the culture and history of the mighty Incas. Along the trail you will have the chance to camp under the stars and meet other travellers from all different parts of the world.
There is no need to worry about the planning and trek logistics, our Inca Trail include everything you need for a care-free experience. From transportation to food, we are here to make sure your trek is a memorable adventure. Experience a once-in-a-lifetime adventure along the classic Inca trail! Book now and prepare yourself for an unforgettable adventure in the heart of Peru. Before the trek, you guide will visit you at your hotel in Cusco to provide you with important information and a detailed trek briefing.
You will have the opportunity to ask any questions and buy any last-minute items for the trek, before your departure. The following itinerary is an example itinerary and the hiking times are an estimate, depending on the group. The lunch stops and campsites may change to satisfy the requisites of the group
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.
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).
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.
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
Share your travel preferences and a local specialist will confirm availability and prepare the best option for you.
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.
Discover what fellow travelers have to say about their journeys through Peru with Yacana Peru.
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.
Insect Repellent: the minimum recommended is 20% de DEET (be aware that there have been reported cases of malaria on this trip.
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.
Special Instructions:
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.
RENTALS AND UPGRADES:
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.
You trek approximately ten to fifteen kilometers per day with elevation gains up to seven hundred meters and descents around nine hundred meters.
Permits sell out quickly so apply through a registered agency at least six months in advance to ensure availability.
Dead Woman’s Pass is the summit at about four two hundred meters making it the toughest climb on the route.
Natural springs are available but you need purification tablets or a portable filter to make water safe.
Local staff provide two-person tents sleeping mats and dining tents so you only need your own sleeping bag.
Temperatures can drop to minus two or minus five degrees at higher camps so a sleeping bag rated below zero is advisable.
Signal is intermittent near lower camps and disappears completely above the first mountain pass.
Yes insurance covering medical evacuation and high-altitude rescue is mandatory so carry a copy and policy number.
A standard guideline is about ten percent of the tour cost divided among team members though it remains optional.
After the walk you travel by bus to Aguas Calientes then train back to Cusco arriving by early afternoon to your hotel.
Minimum recommended age is twelve though fitness level and previous altitude experience matter more than age alone.
Yes lunches and dinners accommodate vegetarians but inform agency ahead so they adjust menus accordingly.
Groups range up to sixteen people allowing personal space yet enough company for conversation and aid.
Rentals often include sleeping bags rated to minus ten and inflatable mattresses for added warmth and comfort.
After the Sun Gate you walk about two kilometers down stone paths taking roughly an hour to reach the Inca City entrance.
The world’s most iconic trek along ancient stone paths directly into Machu Picchu through the Sun Gate.
Discover the magnificent 4-day Inca Trail to Machu Picchu! This exciting tour will take you along an ancient Inca hiking trail, across suspension bridges and with never-ending stunning, panoramic views. Hike up the mountain to the famous ancient archaeological site of Machu Picchu and discover the culture and history of the mighty Incas. Along the trail you will have the chance to camp under the stars and meet other travellers from all different parts of the world.
There is no need to worry about the planning and trek logistics, our Inca Trail include everything you need for a care-free experience. From transportation to food, we are here to make sure your trek is a memorable adventure. Experience a once-in-a-lifetime adventure along the classic Inca trail! Book now and prepare yourself for an unforgettable adventure in the heart of Peru. Before the trek, you guide will visit you at your hotel in Cusco to provide you with important information and a detailed trek briefing.
You will have the opportunity to ask any questions and buy any last-minute items for the trek, before your departure. The following itinerary is an example itinerary and the hiking times are an estimate, depending on the group. The lunch stops and campsites may change to satisfy the requisites of the group
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.
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).
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.
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
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.
Travelers to Peru require a passport valid for at least 6 months from entry. Most nationalities (USA, Canada, EU, UK, Australia, Brazil) do not require a tourist visa for stays up to 90 days. Comprehensive travel insurance covering high altitude is strongly recommended.
Hotel nights feature comfortable 3-star boutique hotels in private en-suite rooms. On mountain treks, we provide premium 4-season Eureka tents (2 persons in a 4-person tent), foam sleeping mattresses, spacious dining tents with tables and chairs, and clean portable toilet facilities.
Your tour begins in Cusco, Peru. We include airport arrival transfer to your hotel. An informative briefing with your professional trekking guide takes place at your Cusco hotel at 6:00 PM the evening before your tour begins.
We had great tours with them! Rosa Guide very good and with a lot of information!
We had an incredible experience with the tours! Everything was very well organized, from the schedules to the support during the trips. The guides were very attentive, helpful, and gave us a lot of interesting...
A wonderful experience, very punctual, capricious, service at all times, no doubt was the best choice, me and my friends felt very safe.
The Yacana was our best choice of trip. Always inquisitive and ready to serve us. Super we indicate!
