Tour Description
The Classic 4-Day Inca Trail is consistently ranked as one of the best treks in the world. This ancient 42-kilometer (26-mile) route built by the Incas winds its way through diverse ecological zones, from high-altitude alpine passes to lush, subtropical cloud forests filled with orchids and hummingbirds.
Along the journey, you will explore spectacular archaeological ruins like Runkurakay, Sayacmarca, and Wiñay Wayna, which are accessible only by foot. The ultimate reward comes on the final morning as you hike through the darkness to reach the Sun Gate (Inti Punku) just in time to watch the sunrise illuminate the majestic citadel of Machu Picchu below.
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1: Cusco – KM 82 – Wayllabamba
- 05:30 AMPick-up from your hotel and drive to KM 82, the start of the trail.
- 09:00 AMCross the checkpoint and begin the gentle hike along the Urubamba River.
- 01:00 PMEnjoy lunch near the Llactapata archaeological site.
- 04:30 PMArrive at the first campsite in Wayllabamba (3,000m). Dinner and rest.
Day 2: Wayllabamba – Dead Woman's Pass – Pacaymayo
- 05:30 AMWake up early with coca tea and a hearty breakfast.
- 07:00 AMBegin the most challenging ascent of the trek towards the highest pass.
- 11:30 AMConquer Warmiwañusca (Dead Woman's Pass) at 4,215m (13,828ft).
- 02:00 PMDescend steeply into the Pacaymayo valley for lunch and set up camp.
Day 3: Pacaymayo – Wiñay Wayna
- 06:00 AMBreakfast and begin the ascent to the second pass, Runkurakay (3,950m).
- 10:00 AMExplore the Sayacmarca ruins and enter the beautiful cloud forest.
- 01:00 PMCross the third pass (Phuyupatamarca) and enjoy spectacular views before lunch.
- 04:30 PMDescend the impressive Inca stone steps to the final campsite at Wiñay Wayna.
Day 4: Wiñay Wayna – Sun Gate – Machu Picchu
- 03:30 AMVery early wake up to be the first at the checkpoint.
- 05:30 AMHike the final trail section in the dark towards Inti Punku.
- 07:00 AMArrive at the Sun Gate to witness the sunrise over Machu Picchu.
- 08:30 AMDescend to the citadel for a comprehensive 2-hour guided tour.
- 01:00 PMTake the bus to Aguas Calientes and board the train back to Cusco.
Included
- Briefing in Cusco prior to departure
- Transportation to KM 82 and return train/bus to Cusco
- Inca Trail permits and Machu Picchu entrance tickets
- Professional bilingual guides
- Porters to carry tents, food, and 7kg of personal items per person
- All camping equipment (tents, dining tent, sleeping mats)
- Meals (3 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 3 dinners)
- Bus ticket down from Machu Picchu to Aguas Calientes
Not included
- Sleeping bags (can be rented)
- First breakfast and final lunch in Aguas Calientes
- Huayna Picchu mountain tickets
- Gratuities for the trekking crew
What to bring
- Original passport
- Sleeping bag (rated for -5°C)
- Well-worn hiking boots
- Trekking poles (rubber tips required)
- Layers of clothing for extreme temperatures
- Headlamp, sunscreen, and insect repellent
Expert Tips
- Permits are strictly limited to 500 people per day (including staff) and sell out 5-6 months in advance.
- February is closed for maintenance.
