Day 1: Cusco – Km 82 – Hatunchaca – Ayapata

Your Inca Trail trekking team will pick you up from your hotel in Cusco around 4:30 am (depending on your location); if you stay in the Sagrad Valleyor as Urubamba Ollantaytambo; pickup will be after 6:00 am. Then, you will drive for 3 hours to km. 82 (Piscakucho) to start the Inca Trail 4 days and 3 nights of hiking to Machu Picchu. We will arrive at the trailhead at approximately 8:00 am – First, you will meet their team of chefs, porters, guides and enjoy a delicious breakfast with incredible views of the Andes Mountains. Next, we will head to the checkpoint to show our passports and begin the amazing journey to the lost city of the Incas.

The first part is a relatively easy two-hour hike to Patallaqta, the first ancient site along the Inca Trail route  to Machu Picchu. From a unique and secluded place, we will enjoy the breathtaking views of this ancient city surrounded by mountains and rivers. Then, it’s another two-hour hike to Hatunchaca – located in the heart of the Inca Trek, where the team of porters and chefs will be waiting for you with a delicious lunch prepared with fresh local produce. After enjoying the delicious lunch, we will continue the day for two more hours until the first camp in Ayapata, arriving at approximately 5:00 pm. Your tent, a snack and a hot drink will be waiting for you. Then you will have time to rest and enjoy the view of the mountains before dinner.

• Camp altitude: 3300 m – 10826 ft.
• Maximum altitude: 3300 m – 10826 ft.
• Distance: 14 km / 8 miles.
• Duration: 6 hours.
• Meals: Breakfast, snacks, lunch, snack, dinner.
• Accommodation: Camp.
• Difficulty: Moderate.

Day 2: Ayapata – Warmiwañuska – Chaquicocha

We will wake you up early with a cup of hot coffee or coca tea in your tent. Today will be the most challenging part  of the 4-day trek to Machu Picchu, and after breakfast, it will be a 4-hour hike uphill to the Dead Woman Pass (4215m/13829ft), the highest point along the Inca Trail. At the summit, we will take some time to appreciate the serenity of this place while your guide completes a traditional offering ceremony to the Apus (local gods). After enjoying the views, we will start a 2-hour downhill hike to the Pacaymayu Valley, where we will enjoy a well-deserved lunch.

The second mountain is an easier 2-hour climb to the Runqurakay Pass (4000 m / 13123 ft). We will take time to explore two Inca sites along the way; Runqurakay and Sayacmarca. The second camp is Chaquicocha (dry lake, 3600m / 11811 ft), where you can admire a beautiful sunset over the Vilcabamba mountain range before dinner. With an unobstructed view of the constellations, this is the perfect place to stargaze!

• Camp altitude: 3600 m – 11811 ft.
• Maximum altitude: 4215 m-13829 ft.
• Distance: 16 km / 9 miles.
• Duration: 10 hours.
• Meals: Breakfast, snack, lunch, snack, dinner.
• Accommodation: Camp.
• Difficulty: Moderate to difficult.

Day 3: Chaquicocha – Intipata – Wiñaywayna

With the difficult part of the 4-day Inca Trail tour completely finished, you can relax and enjoy the easiest and possibly most exciting day of the Inca Trail. Today’s route is extremely varied, and it’s only a 5-hour hike to the final camp. Along the way, you’ll pass several different ecosystems, experience the atmospheric cloud forest, and observe the magnificent panoramic view of Salkantay Mountain (the second highest peak in Cusco). We will visit two Inca sites, Phuyupatamarka (City in the Clouds), with spectacular views of the Urubamba River, Machu Picchu Mountain and Intipata (Sun Terraces).

In Intipata, there will be time to rest and enjoy its magical surroundings. We will arrive at the camp at approximately 1:00 pm for lunch, and then you can enjoy some free time to relax, rest in the camp, chase llamas or take a refreshing shower. Later in the afternoon, we will visit the important Inca site of Wiñaywayna, where your guide will explain the history of this fantastic place. Then we will return to the camp for tea, dinner and a special farewell surprise.

• Camp altitude: 2600 m – 8530 ft.
• Maximum altitude: 3600 m – 11811 ft.
• Distance: 10 km / 6 miles.
• Duration: 5 hours.
• Meals: Breakfast, snack, lunch, tea time, dinner.
• Accommodation: Camp.
• Difficulty: Easy.

Day 4: Discover Machu Picchu – Cusco

On our last day of the Classic Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, we have to get up very early to prepare for the highlights of your Sacred Expeditions Peru! visiting Machu Picchu, the Lost City of the Incas. We will go directly to the checkpoint and wait until it opens at 5:30 am. As the sky lights up, we will walk for an hour to the Sun Gate (Intipunku), enjoying the breathtaking views along the way. You can watch the spectacular sunrise over Machu Picchu from the Sun Gate on a clear day, which is truly an unforgettable sight. We will begin our final one-hour descent to Machu Picchu, arriving at the last checkpoint around 7:30 am.

Your tour guide will take you on a full two-hour tour of the city before dropping you off at Machu Picchu to explore on your own or climb Huayna Picchu Mountain  or Machu Picchu Mountain (tickets should be booked as far in advance as possible). Your guide will also explain how to take the bus from Machu Picchu to Aguas Calientes for lunch and then take the panoramic train (Vistadome or 360° train) and the bus back to Cusco. The  Sacred Expeditions Peru  team will meet you as you get off the train and safely return you to your hotel in Cusco or the Sacred Valley. The approximate arrival time back to Cusco is around 7.30 to 8:00 pm.

• Maximum altitude: 2700 m-8858 ft.
• Distance: 6 km / 3 miles.
• Duration of the walk: 2 hours.
• Meals: Breakfast, snacks.
• Difficulty: Easy.

The 4-day Classic Inca Trail to Machu Picchu is one of the best and most popular treks in Peru. For 4 days and 3 nights, you will explore the iconic Inca Trail to Machu Picchu by camping in the mountains with comfortable equipment, great meals, and top-notch tour guides. Sacred Expeditions Peru organizes small all-inclusive group tours to Machu Picchu with all the safety regulations for Covid 19. Book with us and have 100% satisfaction guaranteed.

Inca Trail with. Sacred Expeditions Peru is discovering a new way of hiking and camping experience. Enjoy this fantastic hike on small-group tours with fantastic food prepared by our local trekking chefs, top quality equipment, portable solar showers and board the scenic trains on the last day to return to Cusco.

During the Inca Trail, we provide:

Food: Your trekking chef will prepare special meals for you every day, from the first breakfast to the last breakfast. We use fresh produce from the area to provide the best of Peruvian food. Vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free meals are available.

Equipment: We offer kitchen tents, dining tents, bathroom tents, tables, chairs, portable solar showers,  tents for 4 people for every 2 travelers and Eureka tents for 2 people for solo travelers. We do not charge any individual supplement.

Transportation: We provide door-to-door service, we will start the tour from your hotel anywhere in Cusco or the Sacred Valley, and after the tour, we will also transfer you back to your hotel. We are the only company that offers panoramic trains on the way back to relax and enjoy the fantastic views.

Safety: All our staff has training in First Aid, Mountain Rescue, Covid 19 protocols. We provide oxygen tank, first aid kit, satellite phones.

. Sacred Expeditions Peru: For us, the Inca Trail isn’t just about hiking; it’s about creating unique and memorable experiences. Discover a new way to camp and travel responsibly.

Porters: The porters of . Sacred Expeditions Peru have the right equipment and fair salaries; they are the most valuable staff on the Inca Trail, without them it is not possible to reach Machu Picchu.

Trip details:

• Duration: 4 days / 3 nights.
• Departure: Km 82 – Piscacucho.
• Difficulty: Moderate.
• Season: March to January.
• Destination: Machu Picchu.
• Walking distance: 43 km – 26 miles.
• Type: Adventure – Camp.

Because Inca Trail to Machu Picchu with . Sacred Expeditions Peru

• Book with confidence and flexibility, you can change the dates free of charge.
• Best Inca Trail operator awarded us.
• Best camps and arrive at the archaeological sites at exclusive times.
• Enjoy the panoramic Vistadome train on the way back to Cusco.
• Support with our social projects and thus help early childhood education in Peru.

Price per person 

To book the Classic Inca Trail trek to Machu Picchu, you must make a down payment of 140 USD per person, the remaining balance can be paid online, in installments or in Cusco with any credit card without any reservation fee.

Student discount:

All travelers under the age of 17 will have a $40 discount. If you are 25 or younger when you travel, you can get the $40 discount . Please notify by email to give you a code for the discount.

Inca Trail 4 days 3 nights – day-to-day summary

Day 1: Training day!

Cusco – Km 82 – LLactapata – Ayapata (14km, 6hrs) .- Leave your hotel around 4:30 am and drive to Km 82 to begin the 6-hour trek on the first day of the Inca Trail trek to Machu Picchu. The first camp is located at 3300 m (10826 ft); We spent the night in comfortable tents.

Day 2: The Challenge!

Ayapata – Warmiwañuska – Chaquicocha (16km, 10 hrs) .- The most challenging and longest day of the 4 days Machu Picchu Trek, passing two mountains in 10 hours of hiking: The first mountain is the Paso de la Mujer Muerta, the highest point of the Inca Trail with 4215m (13829 feet). The second mountain is Runqurakay Pass, with 4000 m (13123 ft).

Day 3: The easy day!

Chaquiccocha – Phuyupatamarca – Wiñaywayna (10km, 6hrs). The most beautiful and relaxing day, hiking, is only 6 hours passing through different ecological zones. Today, you will also visit several beautiful archaeological sites, including Wiñaywayna, located at 2600m (8530ft). We camped just 2 hours from Machu Picchu.

Day 4: Machu Picchu!

Wiñaywayna – Machu Picchu – Cusco (6km, 2 hrs), You will wake up early and make a 2-hour trek to Machu Picchu through the Inti Punku from where we will have a unique view of Machu Picchu. After exploring Machu Picchu, you will take the Panoramic Vistadome train back to Cusco. You will return to your hotel around 7:30 pm.

Camp locations may change based on availability and the final assignment of the camp.

What to take to the Inca Trail?

What should I pack for the Inca Trail trek to Machu Picchu? This is the most common question.

When traveling to a new distant destination like South America, you’ll need to prepare much earlier, especially if you’re going to hike places like the Inca Trail or the Sallkantay trek.

However, for your trip to Peru, you will bring one or two large pieces of luggage depending on the time you spend on your vacation; to your Inca Trail Trek; you will only carry the necessary equipment for the 4-day Inca Trail trek, this means you will have to store the rest of your belongings at the Cusco hotel or Sacred  Expeditions Peru warehouses

For the Inca Trail trek, you should minimize the things you will be carrying. We recommend 5 kilos in your backpack and 7 kilos in your bag. Remember that you are responsible for carrying your backpack at all times, and you will need to have all the necessary equipment for the day. Our porters will carry the duffel bag, and we can only find them in the camps, but not during the day.

Essentials for the Classic Inca Trail trek:

• Valid original passport (a copy will not be accepted) – Please note that your passport must be at least 6 months valid to enter and leave Peru.
• Valid student card (if you booked as a student).
• Trekking boots (light, comfortable).
• A good quality backpack (light, small and comfortable).
• Water storage for at least 2 liters; either a camelbag or a bottle(s) of water.

What to put in backpacks:

Below is a list of items that we recommend you carry with you at all times in your backpack. Remember, you will take it with you every day of the hike, so we recommend you bring a good quality, light and comfortable backpack.

It is important to note that due to local regulations, your backpack should not exceed 25L. All larger bags cannot be taken to Machu Picchu and must be stored outside the gates.

• Hat and sunglasses.
• Rain gear.
• Warm coats (long-sleeved poles).
• Sunscreen, insect repellent.
• Hand sanitizer.
• Toilet paper.
• Personal medication.
• Band-Aids.
• Camera, additional batteries.
• Headlamp.
• Additional snacks, energy bars, chocolate.
• Extra money for unforeseen events, drinks and tips (small coins are useful for paying for the use of villagers’ toilets on the first day).

What to put in the suitcases?

Sacred Expeditions Peru will provide you with a suitcase to pack any items that you do not need to carry with you during the day. Our porters will carry this bag throughout the trek. Please note that this bag must weigh a maximum of 7 kg, including your sleeping bag and air mattress (if you bring or rent one). These two items weigh about 3 kg together (2 kg sleeping bag, 1 kg air pad). During the Inca Trail, you will travel through different temperatures as you ascend/descend. It can also be cold at night at the camp. Therefore, the layers work better!.

Canvas bags will be provided in our office during the safety briefing held the day before; we can also deliver them to your hotel if you need to arrange your belongings in advance.

• Sleeping bag for the Inca Trail (can be rented with us).
• Air mattress for the Inca Trail (can be rented with us).
• Comfortable and light shoes for camping.
• Jacket, hat and warm gloves for the Inca Trail.
• 4 t-shirts (absorbent t-shirts are the best).
• 1-2 hiking pants/pants.
• Four sets of underwear.
• Four sets of hiking socks.
• 1 thick and soft cloth.
• 1 warm down jacket for the coldest nights.
• Quick drying towel.
• Soap.
• Wet wipes
• Toothbrush and paste.
• Facial moisturizer.
• Portable batteries and chargers.
• Plastic bags to keep wet or muddy clothes separate.

Covid-19 Measures:

• Temperature checks are mandatory
• Face masks required in public areas
• Hand sanitizer available at all times
• High-traffic locations are regularly disinfected
• Maximum 12 people per group
• Capacity will be reduced to 50%
• Printed material such as maps or vouchers will be avoided.
• 100% online payments without commissions
• Flexible bookings during the COVID–19 pandemic

Why book with . Sacred Expeditions Peru

• . Sacred Expeditions Peru is a Local Tour Operator of Cusco
• Personal porter included up to 7 kilos
• Panoramic trains included in the last one (Visatdome or 360 °).
• Small-group tours for personalized service
• Fair treatment of porters with adequate wages, we include women.
• You help us to support with our social projects in Cusco
• Portable toilets and hot showers available
• No booking fees! without credit card checks.

Frequently Asked Questions about the Inca Trail

What is the Inca Trail?

Few places in the world can take your breath away, like the Inca Trails. The Inca Empire built these spectacular ancient routes in the fifteenth century as part of an extensive network of roads called Qhapac Ñan (Inca Trails) to maintain communication in such a large empire (Colombia, Ecuador, Peru, Bolivia, Chile, Argentina).

Cusco was the Inca capital; therefore, the most important city of the Inca empire. The Inca Trail departed from Cusco to the provinces; these roads stretched for more than 40,000 kilometers.

The Classic Inca Trail is a 42 km stretch of a cobblestone road to Machu Picchu. This portion of the gigantic Inca Routes was lost along with Machu Picchu during the sixteenth century. It was recently rediscovered by Hiram Bingham III during his expeditions to Peru, in search of the lost cities of the Incas.

Where is the Inca Trail located?

The world-famous Classic Inca Trail is located in the province of Urubamba, Cusco – Peru. During the Inca period, the Classic Inca Trail was used to connect Cusco with Machu Picchu. For 4 days, you will be exploring ancient archaeological complexes within the Inca Trail until you reach Machu Picchu on foot.

How long is the 4-day Inca Trail?

The Classic Inca Trail, the most popular schedule, is 4 days. You can take a 5-day tour if you want to spend more time inside the Inca Trail, explore the Inca site with more time, and walk at a slower pace. The total distance of the Inca Trail is 26 miles or 43km long.

How high is the Classic Inca Trail?

• The city of Cusco is located at 3,399 m or 11151 ft.
• The starting point of the Inca Trail is KM 82 at 2642 m or 8867 ft.
• The average altitude of the Inca Trail is 3,000 m or 9842 feet.
• The highest mountain is Warmi Wañusca at 4,215 m or 13835 ft.
• The second highest mountain pass is Runccuracay at 4,000 m or 13123 ft.
• Machu Picchu, where the Inca Trail ends, is at 2,430 m 7972 feet.
• The village of Aguas Calientes, where we took the train back to Cusco, measures 2,040 m or 6692 ft.

Where does the 4-day Inca Trail begin?

The Classic Inca Trail begins at Km 82, located in Piscacucho (2642 m 8867 ft), Ollantaytambo district, Urubamba province. The main checkpoint is located to the right of the Urubamba River. Once you cross the river, you enter the protected area of the Inca Trail.

The Short Version of the Inca Trail begins at Km 104, also called Chachabamba. This is the 1 day express Inca Trail, and the next day you will visit Machu Picchu.

When is the best time to hike the Inca Trail?

This question is usually difficult to answer, on the Inca Trail you will be surprised by the sun, rain, wind, cold or any weather you may encounter on your trip. You just need to have the right equipment, always be prepared for all kinds of weather. The Inca Trail is located in the cloud forest, and this is famous for having the most unstable climate in Peru and perhaps the world.

• The best months to hike the Inca Trail and visit Machu Picchu are from April to October.
• The driest months on the Inca Trail are May, June, July, August. However, these are the busiest days in Machu Picchu.
• The rainy season begins in November until March; however, it is possible to have full weeks without rain.
• February is always close due to heavy rainfall and maintenance.

When was the Inca Trail built?

The Inca Trail was built by the Inca civilization somewhere during the fifteenth century by the ninth Inca King Pachacuteq. During the heyday of this civilization, this Inca trail was used as a pilgrimage route to Machu Picchu.

Why is the Classic Inca Trail important?

After the rediscovery of the Inca Trail in 1915, archaeologists have explored the ancient route and found many Inca temples, religious sites and administrative areas such as Llaqtapata, Runcuracay Sayacmarca, Phuyupatamrca, Initipata, Wiñaywayna and Intipunku.

The large number of Inca sites, the very well preserved ancient Inca Trail, the secluded location of the area, the varied landscapes, the fantastic view, the endemic flora and fauna are some of the reasons why the Inca Trail has become one of the most important treks in South America.

How many days in advance do I have to arrive in Cusco before the Inca Trail?

We recommend arriving at least 2 days before the departure of your trip. This way, you will have time to adapt to the altitude of the city of Cusco and prepare for the Inca Trail.

When is the Classic Inca Trail closed?

The Inca Trail is closed throughout the month of February due to heavy rains and maintenance.

Which Inca Trail is the best?

There are basically 3 ways to do the Inca Trail and get to Machu Picchu through the Sun Gate.

• The Classic Inca Trail 4 days and 3 nights are the most popular, and 90% of travelers will choose this option.
• The Inca Trail Slow Version 5 days and 4 nights, 3 nights of camping, 1 night of hotel in Aguas Calientes.
• The shortest version of the Inca Trail, 1 day hike along the last part of the Inca Trail and the next day visiting Machu Picchu.

There are other variations and extensions of this trek, such as the Salkantay Inca Trail; however, it is always based on the above.

Where do I have to book Inca Trail permits?

Only authorized registered tour operators can book Inca Trail permits in the city of Cusco. You cannot get the permits yourself and must travel with a tour guide, a chef and porters.

How to obtain Inca Trail permits?

Inca Trail permits are delivered during the first days of October for next year. This October 2021, we will reserve permits for all 2022 seasons.

Some months can pass quickly, such as May, June, July, so it is essential to get a manual confirmation that the tour operator has obtained the permits.

Is the Inca Trail difficult?

Another difficult question, and the answer is no! the Inca Trail is challenging but doable. You should be able to walk on uneven terrain for about 8 to 10 hours a day, take a 3000-meter hike, and be able to go up and down the stairs on the trail.

If you are in regular physical condition to handle this type of hike, if you practice regularly before reaching the Inca Trail, you will have a wonderful time.

How much does the Inca Trail cost?

There are so many different tour operators with reasonable prices when searching online, and it’s always difficult to decide which travel company you’ll travel with.

It would be better if you considered the option that best suits your interests:

• The average price of a 4-day tour is from 600 to 700 USD
• The average price of the 5-day tour is from 700 to 800 USD
• The average price of the 2-day tour is from 450 to 550 USD.

You can find better prices or options but always remember to check what is included and what is not. Some tour operators do not include a personal porter, bus from Machu Picchu.  Sacred Expeditions Peru offers a personal porter and all transportation from start to finish.

How to book Inca Trek?

Booking the Inca Trail is easy with Sacred Expeditions Peru; click the BOOK NOW button, select your departure date, fill out the form with all the requested details, including passport information, and finally send the initial payment required to book the Inca Trail. Due to the strict booking policy of Inca Trail permits administered by the Peruvian government, all Inca Trail reservations must be confirmed manually.

Is the Inca Trail trek dangerous?

On any adventure trip you take, there will always be risks. Dangerous situations during the Inca Trail may be due to negligence or force of nature. The best way to stay safe on the Inca Trail is by following your tour guide’s instructions at all times.

Can I do the Inca trek without a guide?

You cannot enter the Inca Trail without hiring a registered tour company. You must walk the Inca Trail with a tour guide, chef and porters.