Explore the stunning Incan history and nature on the classic Inca Trail in 4 days and 3 nights
The classic Inca Trail trek to Machu Picchu in 4 days is one of the most famous treks in South America, and for good reason. Mixing history, wildlife, and spectacular scenery, this three-night adventure is an unforgettable experience, with a final destination -- Machu Picchu itself -- that ranks among the world’s most impressive archaeological sites.
The classic Inca Trail is only about 42 km (26 miles) long, but it goes up and down and along mountains, rising up through three mountain passes, and generally takes a circuitous route through the tricky terrain in this part of Peru. That makes it a more strenuous 42 km than most, but also one with spectacular scenery, passing through various Andean environments including cloud forest and alpine tundra.
Along the trail, you’ll be trekking through an area of great biodiversity. At any moment you could come across orchids, foxes, cocks-of -the-rock (Peru’s national bird), spectacled bears, deer and many more species of flora and fauna. As you trek the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, you’ll also pass by other impressive Inca ruins, such as Wiñay Wayña and Phuyupatamarca. It’s an incredibly rich trekking experience, and that’s before you even reach your destination: the sublime mountaintop Inca citadel of Machu Picchu.
It’s impossible to overstate the beauty of Machu Picchu, from its incredible architecture to the surrounding mountains and mist-filled gorges. But we won’t describe it all here, as it’s far better if you come with us to explore the classic Inca Trail to Machu Picchu over a 4 day period. With our professional guides, porters and talented cooks, you can have the experience of a lifetime while discovering this magical trek for yourself.
When compared to other long distance trekking routes around the world, the Classic Inca Trail is relatively short. This world-famous trail in Peru is 26 miles/42 kilometres long and leads up to the breathtaking site of Machu Picchu, an important site that dates back hundreds of years and is tied to the elites of the Incan civilization.
While the question of whether the 4 day Inca Trail is worth it is completely subjective, we believe that the answer is a resounding yes! Trekking 26 miles through rainforests and the rugged landscape of the Andes Mountains, the Classic Inca Trail is both a physical and spiritual journey that connects trekkers with not only the world around them, but the culture and history of the Inca civilization of the past. Combine that with a breathtaking sunrise at Machu Picchu and it’s hard to believe why anyone would say that the 4 day Inca Trail is not worth it!
While the Inca Trail is a physically demanding long distance trekking route, with a good amount of preparation it can certainly be completed by a wide range of outdoor enthusiasts, even beginners. The main things to get used to are the altitude and the constant physical activity that you will engage in day after day, so make sure to practice similar activities well in advance if you are planning to complete the Classic Inca Trail.
Today’s itinerary of your classic Inca Trail to Machu Picchu tour begins very early, please make sure to have your breakfast packed with you as it’s not included. Transfer to Piscacucho and check in. Access to the Inca Trail is limited, so at this control point you will need to show your passport, permits, etc. Ahead of you lie the incredible Inca Valley and the path used by great Inca masters and the royal court on the sacred journey to Machu Picchu. You have the privilege of retracing their steps.
From the trailhead (2,720 m / 8,923 ft) cross the Vilcanota River and follow the trail as it enters the cloud forest. Continue walking until you see the remains of Inca sites such as the Huillca Raccay fortress and Patallacta. Notice how the Urubamba mountains divide the jungle as you walk through the Andes and admire the W’akay Willca peak (5,860 m / 19,225 ft). This majestic snow-capped peak is also known as Veronica. This day full of new impressions and beautiful scenery ends at the Ayapata campsite near the village of Wayllabamba (3,000 m / 9,842 ft). Depending on the season, expect overnight temperatures around +5°C (41°F).
Today’s hike of the Inca Trail starts early, and begins with a steep climb that will take several hours. The Inca believed this was part of their sacred pilgrimage, that they would become one with the gods that protect the Andes. Your challenging climb brings you to the tour’s highest pass, Dead Woman’s Pass (Abra de Warrmihuañusca) (4,200 m / 13,779 ft). Take a well-deserved rest and feel a sense of accomplishment for completing this ascent. Begin to descend again to your lunch stop at Pacaymayu (3,550 m / 11,646 ft). As you walk, watch for a variety of birds and hummingbirds, as well as the polylepis trees that are only found in this cloud forest area.
After lunch there is another 2 hours of steep climbing awaits reach the Runkurakay Pass (4,000 m / 13,123 ft) then descend again to make camp at Chaquicocha Camp (3,350 m / 10,991 ft) before dark. Depending on the season, expect overnight temperatures around +4°C (39°F).
Today your Classic Inca Trail trek begins with a gentler climb to a fascinating archaeological site at Phuyupatamarca or “Town in the Clouds” (3,680 m / 12,073 ft). Stop here to enjoy the incredible view of the surrounding area, including mountains and canyons. Continuing from here, walk the 3,000 steps that lead through a cloud forest to reach another impressive Incan agricultural site called Intipata. From here, the next stop is the Wiñay Wayña campsite (2,680 m / 8,792 ft) where you will spend the night. You should reach this campsite by lunchtime, which leaves time in the afternoon to visit the nearby Wiñay Wayña (“Forever Young”) Inca site. Depending on the season, expect overnight temperatures around +12°C (54°F).
Join the ranks of Inca royalty today as you complete your journey through the mountains along the Inca Trail and reach the royal house of Machu Picchu. Get an early start to reach the Initpunku or Sun Gate (2,730 m / 8,957 ft) by sunrise. Enjoy your first memorable view of Machu Picchu as the sun rises over it. Descend to the incredible ancient city of Machu Picchu (2,400 m / 7,873 ft) for a guided tour of the area. Spend 2 more hours here, either exploring the city further on your own, or hiking the nearby mountains of Machu Picchu or Huayna (Wayna) Picchu. After this time, take the bus (or walk if you have time) to Aguas Calientes for lunch, then journey by train and bus back to Cusco.
You can also book a hike to Wayna Picchu (peak that can be seen in the pictures right behind the complex), and due to required permits, reservations must be made well in advance. Many people consider hiking this mountain to be a highlight of their visit to Machu Picchu. Along the climb, see steps that the Incas cut into the rocks. As the trail winds its way around the mountain, you gain different perspectives on the city of Machu Picchu. After exploring the complex, your guide will then give you your tickets for the train back to Poroy, from where you can jump on the bus back to Cusco.
And that marks the end of our unforgettable classic Inca Trail to Machu Picchu in 4 days!
Pricing for this guided trekking tour to Machu Picchu depends on whether you choose to join an existing group on a specific date or if you prefer a custom tour for your group only.
Prices below are per person, sharing a double tent.
Make new friends and join a group on trekking to Machu Picchu. Prices below are per person and the departures are available several times per week throughout the year. Please note that there are no departures available on February:
| Day Of Week | Price Per Person * | |
|---|---|---|
| Monday | $760USD | Book Now |
| Tuesday | Not Available | |
| Wednesday | $760USD | Book Now |
| Thursday | $760USD | Book Now |
| Friday | $760USD | Book Now |
| Saturday | $760USD | Book Now |
| Sunday | Not Available |
This tour includes the accommodation for three nights along the Inca Trail that are spent in camps.
In some cases, the accommodation listed below may need to be substituted for other comparable accommodations.
Single Rooms and Solo Travelers
Tents are of double occupancy and staying in a single tent would require and extra charge and, in some cases, due to limited availability, might not be available (please enquire for more info).
Sleep under the starry sky in comfortable tents in the campsites along the Inca Trail. Spend your nights in Ayapata, Chaquicocha and Wiñay Wayña camps surrounded by stunning peaks of Peruvian Andes.
3 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 3 afternoon snacks, 3 dinners and various snacks to be eaten throughout the day are included.
This tour includes camping for 3 nights, where camping equipment is also included for camping along the trek. Equipment included: 1 tent for every 2 people (private tent available for an additional charge), dining tent with tables and chairs, kitchen equipment and utensils.
Transportation for you and your luggage are included throughout the tour, starting and ending in Cusco.
How hard is the Classic Inca Trail?
We rate this tour as a 3 / 5. The trek is moderate but hikers unaccustomed to hiking at higher altitudes will notice the additional strain caused by the elevations. We strongly recommend arriving to Cusco a few days before your trek to get acclimatized to the higher elevation.
Are children allowed on Inca Trail?
Yes, this trail is available to children from 7 years old, however, it is recommended to have some experience in trekking similar distances as some might find it very challenging.
Do I need a visa to travel to Peru?
Check with your local country about visa requirements. You could also try this website, though you should verify with your government.
Are meals included on the Classic Inca Trail?
3 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 3 afternoon snacks, 3 dinners and various snacks to be eaten throughout the day are included.
Do I need insurance?
Yes, it is mandatory to have health and medical insurance to join this trip, and your insurance should cover (activity). Get your Travel Insurance.
How do I get to Cusco to start this tour?
Fly to Alejandro Velasco Astete International Airport in Cusco. Many international flights will connect through Peru’s capital city of Lima. The flight from Lima to Cusco takes about 1 hour.
What should I pack?
Don’t forget your passport (and visa if needed). Bring layers of clothing to keep you comfortable as you are hiking, as well as warm enough on cold nights. Please keep clothing lightweight. Rain gear is important to keep you dry and warm on rainy days. Sun protection is very important, especially at higher elevations. Sunblock, sunglasses, and a hat are recommended. You may also be glad to have insect repellent. Bring a backpack (preferably waterproof). Be sure you have sturdy shoes for hiking.
Is the Classic Inca Trail in English?
Yes, the tour guide is English-speaking.
Where does the Classic Inca Trail end?
The tour ends where it begins, in Cusco.
Do I need special vaccines to travel to Peru?
Check with your family doctor.
Are there any travel restrictions for Peru?
Please check with your local government about travel restrictions before you book your tour. This map from the US Department of State provides an overview of the current status in countries around the globe. The UK‘s Foreign Office and Government of Canada also provide advice on foreign travel. Note that the travel advice may change depending on your nationality.
When is the best time to travel to Peru for Inca Trail Trek?
The best time to travel to Cusco Region for this trek is during April through November as December through March are considered to be the rainy season.
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We rate the 4-Day Classic Inca Trail trek as a 3 / 5. The trek is moderate but hikers unaccustomed to hiking at higher altitudes will notice the additional strain caused by the elevations. We strongly recommend arriving to Cusco a few days before your trek to get acclimatized to the higher elevation.
Read about our scale for Tour Difficulty Ratings.
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