4-day Inca Trail to Machu Picchu

The Classic Inca Trail is undoubtedly one of the most spectacular trekking routes in the Americas and an unforgettable once-in-a-lifetime experience. This legendary trail winds through protected cloud forest and Andean jungle, passing impressive Inca archaeological sites and offering breathtaking mountain scenery along the way. For centuries, the Incas used this sacred route as a pilgrimage path to the magnificent citadel of Machu Picchu.

DAY 1: CUSCO – KM 82 – WAYLLABAMBA – AYAPATA

We depart Cusco at 5:30 a.m. by tourist transport, heading toward the Sacred Valley of the Incas. Along the way, we stop in Ollantaytambo, where you will have time to enjoy breakfast (optional).

Upon arrival at Km 82, the official starting point of the Inca Trail, we meet the rest of the group and present our passports for registration. After crossing the Urubamba River (2,200 m / 7,217 ft), we officially begin the legendary trek.

The first day follows a gentle and enjoyable path. We stop for lunch near Miskay, beside the river, while learning about the nearby Llactapata archaeological complex. The trail then continues through Wayllabamba (3,100 m / 10,170 ft) before ascending to Ayapata, our campsite for the night. From here, we enjoy stunning views of Nevado Veronica.

• Difficulty: Moderate

• Hiking Time: 6–7 hours

• Distance: ~11 km

DAY 2: AYAPATA – LLULLUCHAPAMPA – WARMIHUAÑUSCA PASS – PACAYMAYU – RUNKURAKAY – CHAQUICOCHA

Day two is the most challenging and rewarding day of the trek. We hike at our own pace as the trail ascends toward Llulluchapampa Valley (3,850 m / 12,631 ft), surrounded by lush vegetation and flowing streams.

After a steady climb of 2–3 hours, we reach the highest point of the Inca Trail: Warmihuañusca Pass (Dead Woman’s Pass) at 4,200 m / 13,780 ft. This is considered the toughest section of the trek.

Following a well-deserved rest at the summit, we descend steeply to the Pacaymayu Valley, then climb again toward Runkurakay Pass. Our campsite for the night is Chaquicocha (3,650 m / 11,975 ft), where we relax and enjoy spectacular mountain views.

• Difficulty: Challenging

• Hiking Time: 8–9 hours

• Distance: ~15 km

DAY 3: CHAQUICOCHA – PHUYUPATAMARCA – WIÑAYHUAYNA

Day three is often considered the most scenic day of the trek. The landscape changes dramatically as we enter the lush cloud forest of Wiñayhuayna. We pass small alpine lakes and climb to the second pass at 3,950 m, walking through impressive Inca tunnels.

Our next highlight is Phuyupatamarca, meaning “The City Above the Clouds” (3,600 m / 11,811 ft), a beautifully preserved site featuring ceremonial fountains and advanced water engineering.

After passing another Inca tunnel, we visit the spectacular Wiñayhuayna archaeological complex (2,650 m / 8,694 ft). We then descend via original Inca stone staircases to our final campsite, which offers hot showers, restrooms, and refreshments.

• Difficulty: Moderate

• Hiking Time: 5–6 hours

• Distance: ~10 km

DAY 4: WIÑAYHUAYNA – INTI PUNKU – MACHU PICCHU – CUSCO

Magical Sunrise & Guided Tour of Machu Picchu

We begin the day very early with breakfast at 4:30 a.m., then head to the checkpoint for the unforgettable hike to Inti Punku (Sun Gate). Using flashlights, we walk for about one hour to arrive just in time to witness the sunrise over Machu Picchu—a truly magical moment as the citadel emerges from the morning mist.

We enter Machu Picchu around 8:00 a.m. (2,400 m / 7,874 ft) and enjoy time for classic photos before storing our backpacks. This is followed by a 2.5-hour guided tour along Circuit 3B, exploring the most important areas of the citadel, including:

• Temple of the Sun

• Temple of Pachamama

• Sacred Water Fountains

• Inca Palaces

• Temple of the Condor

• Water Mirrors and ancient canals

After the visit, we travel to Aguas Calientes, then return to Cusco by train and private transport.

Optional

• Huayna Picchu: Requires advance reservation due to limited spaces. Additional cost: USD 65.00

What to Bring

• Backpack with rain cover

• Sleeping bag

• Waterproof jacket & rain pants

• Lightweight and warm clothing

• Hiking boots / trail shoes

• Sandals

• Wool or synthetic socks

• Sweater or fleece

• T-shirts

• Rain poncho & hat

• Swimsuit (for hot showers)

• Sunscreen & insect repellent

• Toiletries & toilet paper

• Camera

• Flashlight & extra batteries

• Snacks (chocolate, dried fruit, etc.)

• Original passport & ISIC student card (if applicable)

• Extra cash in Peruvian soles

• Private transportation from Cusco to Km 82
• Inca Trail & Machu Picchu entrance tickets
• Professional bilingual guide (Spanish / English)
• Camping equipment (tents, dining tent, tables, chairs, sanitary tent)
• Cook and cooking staff
• Meals: 3 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 3 dinners (vegetarian, vegan, celiac options available)
• Daily snacks & hot drinks (including coca tea)
• Porters for group equipment
• First-aid kit & oxygen bottle
• Sanitary tents and biochemical toilets
• Communication radios
• Tourist train from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo
• Bus ticket from Machu Picchu to Aguas Calientes
• Private transport from Ollantaytambo to Cusco

Not included:

• Breakfast on Day 1

• Lunch on Day 4 in Aguas Calientes

• Sleeping bag (available for rent)

• Trekking poles

• Extra porter for personal belongings