Includes:
- Briefing before the start of the trip where you will receive a duffel bag.
- Specialized tourist guides will accompany and guide you throughout the entire tour, ensuring your comfort and satisfaction.
- Porters in charge of carrying your belongings during the hike.
- Round-trip transportation to the hotel, as well as access to the train from Aguas Calientes.
- Complete camping equipment, including a pillow, an insulating mattress, a backpack cover, a rain poncho, among others.
- Meals prepared by our chefs (breakfast, lunch, dinner and snacks) adapted to your needs.
- Water available throughout the trip.
- Complete first aid kit if necessary.
Considerations: A permit from the Ministry of Culture is required for the fourth day, especially to access the Inca Trail.
We have meticulously designed this tour to ensure you have a worry-free experience. We pride ourselves on our attention to detail, which sets us apart from the competition.
Traveling these trails with Sacred Expeditions will be an unforgettable experience. Don’t think twice and reserve your spot for next season.
Go now to the ‘What should I bring?’ section above for the detailed Inca Trail most asked questions.
Prices
We can start the trip any day of the week, provided there are permits available. Please note that permits are required for the fourth day.
$1,140 per person
Student Discount We offer a $35 per person discount for students. This discount applies to anyone with a valid university student ID at the time of the hike or anyone under 17 years old. If you are using a University Student Card for children under 17, please send a copy of the ID or passport at the time of booking to info@sacredexpeditionsperu.com. More information about the student ID here.
Additional Items Check out our options for optional upgrades available during your trip. Below is a list of prices:
- Huayna Picchu: $75 per person
- Vistadome Train (one way): $75 per person
Salkantay and Inca Trail Tour Itinerary 7D/6N
Day 1: Cusco – Marccoccasa – Soraypampa
The Salkantay and Inca Trail tour begins with pickup from your hotel in Cusco at 4:30 am. You will be accompanied by guides, chefs and porters to the start of the trail at Marccoccasa (3,300 meters), approximately a two and a half hour drive. Here you will meet the muleteers and horses, and enjoy a comforting breakfast.
The hike will take you through stunning views of the Andes, lush green valleys and beautiful waterfalls. The first part includes a gradual climb of approximately three and a half hours until lunch, followed by a more relaxed walk in the afternoon.
You will experience a change of scenery from green valleys to the foot of the snow-capped Humantay Mountain, with temperatures varying from warm to cold. Make sure to bring warm clothing and gloves for the cool afternoon.
Upon arrival at the camp in Soraypampa (3,800 meters), you will be greeted with hot drinks and a delicious dinner prepared by our team.
- Elevation: 2,900 to 3,800 m
- Walking distance: 11 km / 6.8 miles
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Climate: Warm to cold
Day 2: Soraypampa – Humantay Lake – Ichupata
After a warm wake-up call with hot drinks and breakfast, you will explore the alpine microclimate and stunning views of the glaciers.
A two-hour hike will take you to the beautiful Humantay Lake, at the foot of the glacier. This place is renowned by the Incas for its ceremonies to the God of water and the Apus.
Back on the main trail, you will continue to Salkantay Pampa for lunch, followed by an uphill hike to the campsite at Ichupata or Pampa Japonesa (4,200 m), where the weather will be cooler. Be prepared with a jacket, hat, sunglasses and gloves.
At the camp, you will enjoy hot drinks and dinner while taking in the views of the majestic Salkantay.
- Elevation: 3,500 – 4,300 meters
- Distance: 13 km / 8 miles
- Difficulty: Moderate to difficult
- Cold weather
Day 3: Ichupata – Chiriasca Inca Pass – Inca Canal
After tea and breakfast, the most challenging and rewarding hike awaits you up to the Inca Chiriasca Pass (5,000 meters). From here, you will enjoy spectacular views of mountains, glaciers and possibly sightings of condors and falcons.
You will descend and have the option to explore a glacier before arriving at the lunch spot, where porters will be waiting for you with hot tea and a comforting lunch.
You will continue descending through lush green valleys and meandering streams before reaching camp in a small village.
- Elevation: 4,300 – 5,000 meters, then to 37,500 meters
- Distance: 14 Km / 8.6 miles
- Difficulty: Hard
- Cold weather
Day 4: Inca Canal – Cancha Pauccar – Wayllabamba – Ayapata
This day takes you along ancient trails used by Peruvian farmers since Incan times. You will pass by famous Incan ruins where you will learn about their history.
After the ruins, you will ascend uphill towards the classic Inca Trail to reach the campsite. Make sure to have your camera ready to capture the views of mountains and waterfalls in the cloud forest.
- Elevation: 3,750 – 3,000 meters, then to 3,300 meters
- Distance: 14 Km / 8.6 miles
- Difficulty: Moderate to difficult
- Weather: Cold in the morning, warm in the afternoon
Day 5: Ayapata – Warmi Wañusca – Chaquicocha
This will be the longest but most impressive day of the tour, with views of Inca ruins and the cloud forest.
You’ll start with a nutritious breakfast followed by a two-hour climb to Paso de las Mujeres Muertas (4,200 meters). From the top, you’ll enjoy panoramic views before descending to the lunch spot, where you can observe orchids and hummingbirds.
After lunch, you will ascend uphill for two more hours towards the second peak, passing the Inca ruins of Runcu Raccay and enjoying views of Lake Yanaccoha and the cloud forest. You will arrive at the campsite at Chaquicocha, where you can explore the flora and fauna of the high jungle.
- Elevation: 3,300 – 4,200 meters (the pass), 3,600 meters (lunch), and again, 4,000 meters (the pass), 3,600 meters (camp)
- Distance: 16 Km / 9.9 miles
- Difficulty: Hard
- Weather: You will experience all four seasons in one day
Day 6: Chaquicocha – Phuyupatamarca – Wiñay Wayna
Today is a more relaxed day. You’ll enjoy views of the Andes and the Pumassillo Glacier before exploring three sets of Inca ruins on the way to Wiñay Wayna.
After lunch, you will have free time to explore the Inca ruins and learn about their religious ceremonies.
- Elevation: 3,600-2,600 meters
- Distance: 10 Km / 6.2 miles
- Difficulty: Hot and humid
Day 7: Wiñay Wayna – Machu Picchu – Cusco
This is the most important day, the visit to Machu Picchu.
After breakfast, you will walk two hours to Machu Picchu through the Sun Gate, enjoying spectacular views of mountains, valleys, rivers and Inca ruins.
Once at Machu Picchu, you will receive a guided tour to learn about its history and architecture, followed by free time to explore on your own.
Make sure to visit the temples, palaces and the famous Inca bridge. After exploring Aguas Calientes, you will return to Cusco by train.
- Walking distance: 5 km / 3 miles
Includes
Professional Guides: All of our guides are licensed in tourism and are experts in guiding and guiding travelers. Raised in the Cusco region, they have a deep passion for sharing the culture and legacy of their ancestors. They are friendly and highly professional, dedicated to ensuring your complete satisfaction and happiness throughout your trip.
Permits : Once we receive your details and deposit, we proceed to reserve the permits (subject to availability of the Inca Trail), which are issued in your name for a specific date. The permits are not transferable, but they allow you to update your passport number. They also include access to Machu Picchu.
Briefing : The evening before the trek, you are invited to a briefing at our office. There you will receive a duffel bag that the porters will carry while you hike. This bag, which must not exceed 7kg / 14lbs, should contain your sleeping bag and air mattress.
Porters : Our team includes porters responsible for transporting your equipment. There are no additional costs for this service, and you will not be able to access your duffel bag until you reach the overnight camp.
Transportation : Transportation is included in your trek. We will pick you up directly at your hotel around 4am (except if you are staying in Ollantaytambo) and take you to KM 82 to begin the trek. The Expedition Train from Aguas Calientes is also included. You have the option to upgrade to the Vistadome train for $75 per person. Upon completion, we will take you back to your hotel in Cusco, as well as provide you with a round-trip bus ticket from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu.
Equipment : Sacred Expeditions Peru has high quality equipment, such as Eureka 4 tents shared by two people, and a spacious dining tent to enjoy meals.
Food : Our chefs prepare delicious meals that many previous hikers have loved. We respect all dietary restrictions, be sure to let us know during your booking and at the briefing. Meals are served family style – breakfast, lunch, dinner, and a happy hour with daily tea and snacks. A morning snack is also provided during the hike. The last meal with the chef will be after breakfast on day seven – lunch on the final day is not included.
Water : From the first lunch to the last breakfast, Sacred Expeditions Peru provides all the necessary water, boiled, filtered and cooled before distribution. Bring your water bottles and/or camelback; it is recommended to bring at least 3L. You will be able to refill water at each meal.
First Aid: All our guides are trained in first aid by specialized doctors, with annual refresher sessions. Each guide carries a first aid kit to deal with basic medical problems and oxygen. If necessary, we will evacuate you quickly and comfortably to appropriate medical care.
Extras : We distinguish ourselves by our attention to detail. Every hiker receives a small sleeping pillow, foam mattress, backpack cover for protection and rain poncho, to ensure you have an unforgettable holiday.
Satellite Phones: Safety is our priority. Our guides are equipped with satellite phones for medical emergencies and global communication, ensuring your peace of mind during the expedition.
Not Included
Rentals : You must bring your own sleeping bag. Optionally, you can rent inflatable air mattresses and walking sticks (with rubber tips):
- Sleeping bag: $35
- Inflatable Air Mattress: $30
- Walking sticks (pair): $30
Huayna Picchu: This is a mountain close to Machu Picchu, with a steep 45-minute hike to the top. Reservations must be made at least a month in advance due to its popularity and it is subject to weather conditions.
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.
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. We will reserve permits for all 2024 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 the 7-day tour is from 700 to 800 USD
- The average price of the 5-day tour is from 700 to 800 USD
- The average price of a 4-day tour is from 600 to 700 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.
