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Classic Inca Trail & Machu Picchu 4 days
Overview
The 4-day Inca Trail to Machu Picchu is one of the most famous and highly rated trekking routes in South America, consistently recognized as one of the best hikes in the world. This unique expedition combines history, culture, and nature in an unforgettable journey along the ancient Inca trails.
During these four days, you will explore impressive archaeological sites and lush natural landscapes, culminating with your arrival at the iconic Intipunku , or Sun Gate, just before sunrise, where you can enjoy the best panoramic view of the legendary Machu Picchu Citadel.
Step out of your comfort zone and embark on the majestic Inca Trail to Machu Picchu , recognized as one of the best treks in the world. Enjoy stunning natural landscapes, explore ancient Inca sites, share unique moments with our local porters, and delight your palate with exquisite Peruvian cuisine. All this while you make new friends and culminate the adventure by reaching Machu Picchu through the imposing Andean mountains.
On this small-group tour, you'll join hikers from all over the world, of all ages and genders. It's perfect for independent travelers, couples, or groups of friends looking for an inspiring, safe, and history-filled trekking experience.
With Machu Picchu Explorators , the Inca Trail becomes a unique hiking and camping experience, where every detail is designed to ensure you have an unforgettable trip. Come and join this adventure!
Inca Trail Highlights 4 Days with Machu Picchu Explorators
- Travel with the best authorized Inca Trail operator
- Stay in the best located and equipped camps
- Explore Inca sites at exclusive times, with fewer tourists
- Personal carrier included, which carries up to 7 kg of your equipment
- Return on exclusive panoramic trains (Vistadome or 360°) to enjoy the scenery at all times
Day 1: Training Day
- Route: Cusco – Km 82 – Patallacta – Willkarakay → Wayllabamba
- Distance: 14 km
- Time: 6 hours
- We start early, with pick-up from your hotel around 4:30 am to travel to Km 82, the starting point of the trek. The walk will take you to Patallacta – Willkarakay and then to our first camp at Wayllabamba, located at 3,300 m (10,826 ft). There you will rest in comfortable tents and prepare for the challenges ahead.
Day 2: The Challenge
- Route: Wayllabamba – Warmiwañuska – Pacaymayo
- Distance: 11 km
- Time: 10 hours
- This is the most demanding and exciting day. We will hike through two mountain passes: the Dead Woman Pass, the highest point on the trail at 4,215 m (13,829 ft), and the Runkuraqay Pass, at 4,000 m (13,123 ft). The rewards will be spectacular, and your endurance will be put to the test.
Day 3: Simple Day
- Route: Pacaymayo – Phuyupatamarca – Wiñaywayna
- Distance: 16 km
- A more relaxed day that will take us through diverse ecosystems, from paramos to cloud forests. You will visit incredible archaeological sites such as Phuyupatamarca, Intipata and Wiñaywayna (2,600 m / 8,530 ft). We will camp just 2 hours from Machu Picchu, in an incomparable natural environment.
Day 4: Discover Machu Picchu
- Route: Wiñaywayna – Machu Picchu – Cusco
- Distance: 6 km
- Time: 2 hours
- Early in the morning, we will hike to Inti Punku (Sun Gate), from where you will enjoy a unique sunrise view of Machu Picchu. After a guided tour of the citadel, you will return to Aguas Calientes to take the Vistadome panoramic train back to Cusco, arriving around 7:30 pm.
Note: Exact camp locations may vary based on availability and final assignment.
The first day of this adventure begins with pickup from your hotel in Cusco between 5:00 and 5:30 am. Aboard our private transport, we will head towards km 82 , the official starting point of the Classic Inca Trail , just outside the town of Piscacucho . During this approximately 2-hour journey, we will cross the Sacred Valley of the Incas, enjoying spectacular views of the Andean mountain range.
Upon arrival at the starting point (2,642 m), you will undergo a brief passport and ticket control. Meanwhile, our chef will offer you a hearty breakfast to prepare your body and soul for this unforgettable journey.
Today's trail is ideal for acclimatizing to the altitude and getting to know the natural surroundings. We'll walk along the Urubamba River , overlooking the La Verónica snow-capped mountain , over 5,000 meters high. Along the way, we'll visit the impressive archaeological complex of:
- Patallaqta (also known as Llaqtapata ): an ancient administrative and military center with more than 100 structures, used to control access to the Sacred Valley. Its name means “Hummingbird Village” in Quechua.
Then we will go through:
- Willkarakay (Huillca Raccay ): built in pre-Inca times and later incorporated into the empire, probably used as a surveillance post.
After an outdoor lunch prepared by our team (around 2:00 pm), we will continue on a leisurely hike through queuña forests and agricultural areas until we reach the first camp at Wayllabamba (3,000 m) .
Upon arrival, our porters will have already set up your tents. You'll have time to relax, stretch your legs, and enjoy a warming afternoon tea. Dinner is served in the evening, accompanied by a briefing on the following day's trek. We'll rest in a serene natural setting, with clear skies filled with stars.
- Starting altitude: 2,642 m | Ending camp altitude: 3,000 m |
- Distance to be covered: 12 km (7.5 miles) | Estimated duration: 5–6 hours |
- Difficulty: Moderate | Terrain type: Firm, dry terrain with gentle inclines |
- Includes: Breakfast, lunch, dinner, snacks, afternoon tea, water
The second day is the most physically challenging, but also one of the most rewarding of the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu . At sunrise, our guides will gently awaken you with a cup of hot coca tea , perfect for helping mitigate the effects of altitude sickness.
After a hearty breakfast, we'll begin a steady climb toward Warmiwañuska Pass (Dead Woman) , at 4,216 meters above sea level, the highest point on the trek. The ascent takes between 4 and 5 hours and passes through a mountain ecosystem known as Andean puna , characterized by ichu (tall grass) and cooler temperatures.
This pass gets its name from the silhouette of a reclining woman that forms the profile of the mountains. From the summit, the panoramic views of the Pacaymayo Valley and the surrounding mountains are breathtaking—a reward well worth the effort.
After resting at the summit, we'll carefully descend to our camp at Pacaymayo (3,600 m) , where we'll enjoy a delicious hot lunch. The rest of the afternoon can be spent resting, reading, journaling, or exploring the surrounding area. Some groups may even spot Andean condors soaring overhead.
After dinner, our guides will share more stories about Inca culture and details about the next day's trek.
- Minimum altitude: 3,000 m | Maximum altitude: 4,216 m
- Distance to travel: 11 km (7 miles) | Estimated duration: 6–7 hours
- Difficulty: High | Terrain type: Steep ascent with flights of stone stairs
- Includes: Breakfast, lunch, dinner, snacks, afternoon tea, water
The third day is considered by many to be the most fascinating and comprehensive of the Inca Trail , as it combines nature, archaeology, and spectacular views. The day begins with a 45-minute hike uphill to the circular ruins of:
- Runkuraqay : possible messenger's shelter or tambo, from where you have a partial view of the Dead Woman's Pass.
From there, we ascend to the second pass of the day and descend towards Sayaqmarka , a citadel embedded in the rock, with multiple staircases, viewpoints and a design that suggests its use as an astronomical observatory.
The vegetation begins to change noticeably: we enter the cloud forest , where the jungle and the Andes meet. Here, wild orchids, mosses, and ferns cover the trail, creating a mystical and humid atmosphere.
After a panoramic lunch in Phuyupatamarca ("Cloud Village") , we will begin a descent of more than 2,000 Inca steps to:
- Intipata : agricultural terraces overlooking the Urubamba River
- Wiñaywayna : the second most important complex on the Inca Trail, with temples, ritual baths and water channels.
Near this archaeological site, we will camp for the last night. We will have free time to explore the ruins, visit the nearby waterfall, or simply relax before the final dinner of the trek . Our guides will give a final briefing for the eagerly awaited day of arrival at Machu Picchu .
- Minimum altitude: 3,000 m | Maximum altitude: 4,216 m
- Distance to travel: 11 km (7 miles) | Estimated duration: 6–7 hours
- Difficulty: High | Terrain type: Steep ascent with flights of stone stairs
- Includes: Breakfast, lunch, dinner, snacks, afternoon tea, water
Inca Trail journey to Machu Picchu with one of the most anticipated moments: your arrival at the Historic Sanctuary of Machu Picchu . We'll wake up very early, between 3:30 and 4:00 a.m., for breakfast and then begin the hike to the Wiñaywayna checkpoint , which opens at 5:00 a.m.
In the twilight of dawn, we will walk silently along a path until we reach the steep staircase known as the "gringo staircase," which leads to:
- Inti Punku (Sun Gate): from where you will see for the first time the majestic citadel of Machu Picchu illuminated by the first rays of the sun.
After enjoying the scenery, we will descend to the archaeological site where we will take a 2-hour guided tour , exploring:
- Sacred temples such as the Temple of the Sun and the Three Windows
- The main square, agricultural terraces and ceremonial fountains
- The Intihuatana, a sundial considered one of the most powerful energy points in South America
After the tour, we'll take the bus to Aguas Calientes , where you'll have free time for lunch or to visit the hot springs before boarding the train to Ollantaytambo . From there, our private transportation will take you back to your accommodation in Cusco, arriving approximately between 6:30 and 7:30 p.m.
- Minimum altitude: 2,400 m | Distance to travel: 6 km (3.7 miles)
- Estimated duration of hike: 2 hours
- Difficulty: Moderate | Type of terrain: Rolling trail with flights of stairs
- Includes: Breakfast, transportation to Cusco
- Does not include: Lunch in Aguas Calientes
What does the Classic Inca Trail tour to Machu Picchu include?
trekking routes . Below are all the services and benefits included in the tour:
Before the Tour
- Safety Briefing: You'll receive a comprehensive orientation briefing the evening before your hike at 6:00 pm, with helpful tips, equipment checks, and answers to any questions.
- Free luggage storage: You can leave the luggage you won't be taking on the tour at our office in Cusco, safely and at no additional cost.
Complete Transport and Logistics
- Pick up from your accommodation in Cusco or the Sacred Valley on the day of the tour start.
- Private transportation to km 82, the starting point of the Inca Trail.
- Bus down from Machu Picchu to Aguas Calientes.
- Panoramic return train from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo in Vistadome or 360° service.
- Private transfer from the train station to your hotel in Cusco.
Accommodation and Camping Equipment
- 3 nights of comfortable camping in authorized areas along the Inca Trail.
- High mountain tents, with capacity for 4 people, used by only 2 passengers (extra space for greater comfort).
- Complete kitchen, dining room, and mountain utensils equipment.
Specialized Personnel
- Certified, bilingual (Spanish and English) professional mountain guides with extensive experience and training in high-altitude first aid.
- Expert trekking chefs who prepare nutritious and tasty dishes.
- Team of porters to carry camping and cooking equipment.
- Personal porter included to carry up to 7 kg of your personal belongings (including sleeping bag, clothing, and toiletries).
Food During the Tour
- All meals included for all 4 days (except lunch on the last day):
- Breakfast, lunch, and dinner every day.
- Daily snacks for the walk.
- Afternoon tea at camp (infusions, coffee, biscuits, etc.).
- Vegetarian, vegan, or gluten-free options available upon request.
- Safe drinking water available every day, starting on the second day (boiled and treated with iodine).
Tickets and Permits
- Official entrance ticket to the Inca Trail.
- Entrance ticket to Machu Picchu with official guide included.
- Entry permits to all archaeological sites on the tour: Patallaqta, Runkuraqay, Sayaqmarka, Phuyupatamarca, Wiñaywayna, Intipata, and more.
Safety and Assistance
- Satellite phones for emergency communication.
- First aid kit with basic medications.
- Portable oxygen tank, available at all times during the hike.
Others
- All taxes and booking fees included.
- Personalized service from the moment you book until your return to Cusco.
What's not included (but you can add if you need it):
Although our tour is highly comprehensive, there are some optional or personal items that are not included:
- Sleeping bag (we recommend a temperature rating of up to -10°C). → Available for rent .
- Additional inflatable mattress for added comfort. → Available for rent .
- Rubber-tipped trekking poles . → Available for rent .
- Lunch in Aguas Calientes on the last day after visiting Machu Picchu.
- Entrance to Huayna Picchu Mountain or Machu Picchu Mountain (optional and with additional cost).
- International travel insurance (recommended for all travelers).
- Tips for guides, porters and cooks (optional but appreciated).
Optional services you can add:
- Additional equipment rental (bags, mats, poles)
- Access to additional mountains: Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain
- Recommended travel insurance with medical and cancellation coverage Professional photography package in Machu Picchu (check availability)
What to bring on the 4-day Inca Trail? Complete and updated guide
If you're planning one of the most unforgettable experiences of your life, the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, it's essential that you pack well. It'll be four days of challenging but magical trekking, where every item in your backpack will make the difference between a comfortable hike and a difficult one.
At Machu Picchu Explorators, we'll help you prepare step by step. Here, we explain what to bring on the 4-day Inca Trail, how to organize your daypack, what to pack in your duffel bag, and what items are required.
How much luggage can I bring on the Inca Trail?
During the tour, you will have two ways to carry your equipment:
- A daypack (that you carry all the time)
- A 7kg duffel bag (carried by our porters)
The canvas bag
Included in all our tours, this bag will be delivered the night before the tour. You can pack up to 7 kg, including your sleeping bag and inflatable mattress. Please note that you will not have access to this bag during the day.
Recommended daypack
It should be light, comfortable, and have a capacity of between 25 and 35 liters. Everything you need for your daily hike (water, snacks, sunscreen, poncho, etc.) should go in here.
List of essential (mandatory) items
Make sure you bring the following documents and essential items. They are essential for your entry into the Inca Trail:
- Original passport (valid and with at least 6 months before expiration)
- International student ID (if you applied for a discounted rate)
- Comfortable, waterproof, used (not new) trekking boots
- Daypack (with rain cover)
- Reusable bottle or camelback (minimum 2 liters capacity)
- Trekking poles with rubber tips (optional, available for rent)
- Sleeping bag resistant to -10°C (available for rent)
What to carry in your daypack?
Your backpack will be with you throughout the day, so it should be well-balanced and contain only what you need. Here's the list:
- Wide-brimmed cap or hat and UV-filtering sunglasses
- Buff, handkerchief or bandana to protect from dust or wind
- Thermal hat (chullo type) for the morning cold
- Lightweight, waterproof gloves
- Waterproof jacket or rain poncho (we provide one, but you can bring your own Gore-Tex type)
- Sunscreen and lip balm with SPF
- Insect repellent (ideally with DEET or picaridin)
- Energy snacks (nuts, cereal bars, dark chocolate)
- Toilet paper and plastic bag
- Alcohol gel or wet wipes
- Headlamp (essential for day 4)
- Camera or cell phone with external battery (power bank)
- Cash in soles (for snacks, baths, tips)
What to pack in your duffel bag?
This bag will be carried by our team, and you won't see it until the end of the day at camp. This is where you should pack your clothing, toiletries, and rest items. The total weight should not exceed 7 kg.
Clothing and footwear for the 4 days
- 2 to 3 pairs of trekking pants (with detachable zippers or comfortable leggings)
- 4 dry-fit t-shirts (avoid cotton)
- 4 changes of underwear (preferably sports)
- 4 pairs of socks (wool or synthetic material to prevent blisters)
- 1 thermal polar or fleece
- 1 down or synthetic jacket (for cold nights)
- 1 pair of waterproof pants (optional but useful in the rainy season)
- Comfortable shoes or sandals for camp
- Quick-drying towel
Personal hygiene
- Toothbrush and toothpaste
- Biodegradable soap
- Wet wipes
- Moisturizer
- Stick deodorant (non-aerosol)
- Plastic bags for dirty or wet clothes
Rest
- Sleeping bag resistant to -10°C (rental available)
- Inflatable mattress or thermal insulation (rentalable)
- Earplugs (optional, but recommended for better sleep)
Practical tips for better packing
- Less is more: Don't overload your backpack or duffel bag. Every gram counts at 4,000 meters.
- Layer your clothing: A key technique for adapting to the changing weather on the Inca Trail.
- Organize with compression bags or packing cubes: You'll save space and find your things faster.
- Pack everything waterproof: Use dry bags or Ziplocs to protect your clothes and electronics from the rain.
Can I rent equipment?
Yes! At Machu Picchu Explorators we offer rentals for:
- Professional sleeping bag (-10 °C)
- Inflatable mattress
- Trekking poles
- Trekking backpack
Please consult with our team before your tour to book.
Conclusion: Get ready for adventure
Hiking the Inca Trail is a transformative experience that requires careful logistical preparation. Bringing the right amount of gear is key to your success and enjoyment. At Machu Picchu Explorators, we are committed to providing you with a comfortable, safe, and memorable hike. If you have questions about what to bring or need assistance with equipment rental, please contact us directly. We will be happy to assist you.
Why book the Inca Trail with Machu Picchu Explorators ?
Why Choose Machu Picchu Explorators?
Machu Picchu Explorators is more than an agency: it's a proudly local Cusco company, founded by experts who offer you an authentic, safe, and transformative experience. If you're planning to hike the Classic Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, here's why choosing us guarantees an exceptional adventure:
Authentic Local Origin
- Founded by people from the Sacred Valley who know every corner of this ancient land.
- Support the development of local communities directly.
- Enjoy a genuine insight into Andean culture.
High Mountain Gastronomy
- We use trekking cooking techniques to offer nutritious and delicious dishes.
- Vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options are available upon request.
Professional Team & Premium Equipment
- Comfort guaranteed with top-quality equipment:
- Eureka tents (4-person tents used by only 2 travelers).
- Kitchen tents, private portable warehouses.
- Tables, chairs, high mountain mats, and complete utensils.
- Your rest and safety are always covered.
Complete Transport
- Door-to-door service from Cusco or the Sacred Valley.
- Private transfers throughout the trek, including:
- Departure to Km 82.
- Bus from Machu Picchu to Aguas Calientes.
- Return by train and transfer to your hotel.
Panoramic Trains Included
- One of the few agencies that includes Vistadome or 360° panoramic train service.
- Enjoy wide windows, entertainment, and snacks for a stylish return through the Sacred Valley.
Cultural and Intimate Experience
- This is more than trekking – it’s a cultural journey:
- Explore archaeological sites such as Wiñaywayna and Runkuraqay.
- Hear stories passed down through generations.
- Connect with Andean spirituality: the Apus and Pachamama.
Sustainable and Responsible Tourism
- We follow sustainable tourism principles:
- Protect the Historic Sanctuary of Machu Picchu.
- Collaborate with SERNANP regulations.
- Promote Qhapaq Ñan as a living heritage.
24/7 Security Guaranteed
- Highly trained team in:
- First aid at altitude.
- Mountain rescue.
- Provision of portable oxygen and satellite communication.
- Your safety is our top priority.
Fair Support for Our Porters
- We honor and respect our porters with:
- Fair pay and decent working conditions.
- Adequate and safe equipment.
- Wellness programs for them and their families.
Book Flexibly with Confidence
- Plans change—we understand:
- Change your date without penalty under special conditions.
- Friendly cancellation policy.
- Assistance before, during, and after your trip.
Your Journey with Purpose
- By choosing us, you contribute to:
- The conservation of the Inca Trail.
- The development of local communities.
- The preservation of ancestral culture and spirituality.
