Classic Inca Trail to Machu Picchu 4Days/3Night
Classic Inca Trail To Machu Picchu 4D/3n
The Classic Inca Trail is more than a hike it’s a life-changing journey into the heart of the Andes. Over four unforgettable days, you’ll walk the same paths the Incas once used to reach the sacred city of Machu Picchu. Each step brings you closer to ancient history, breathtaking nature, and cultural discovery.
Price
Trip Details
- Tour Type:
- Duration
- Group Size
- Dificult
- Housing
Camping
- Language
- Distance
42 km /26 Miles
Discover the Unforgettable Classic Inca Trail to Machu Picchu
Embark on the ultimate Peruvian adventure: the Classic Inca Trail to Machu Picchu. Your journey culminates with a comfortable return trip. Travel from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo aboard the Vistadome or 360° train. The Vistadome train offers an exclusive service to Machu Picchu , providing panoramic views. Enjoy a local meal prepared by our expert chef, a taste of authentic Peruvian cuisine.
Advantages of the Inca Trail 4 Days
Cultural immersion:
- Walk the same ancient path used by Inca messengers.
- Connect deeply with ancient history and Andean heritage.
- This unique Inca Trail trek offers true cultural insight.
- Explore the rich Inca Culture: A Legacy Of Greatness And Mystery .
Exclusive entrance through the Sun Gate:
- Only the Classic Inca Trail offers this unique entry.
- Enter Machu Picchu through the iconic Inti Punku (Sun Gate).
- Experience the majestic entrance, just like the ancient Incas.
- This makes your Machu Picchu tour truly special.
Stunning archaeological sites:
- Along the trail, explore impressive Inca ruins.
- Visit Patallacta, Runkurakay, Sayacmarca, and Wiñay Wayna.
- These sites are often accessible only by foot, making them exclusive.
- Discover the history of these ancient Inca sites in Peru.
Diverse natural landscapes:
- Experience a wide range of incredible ecosystems.
- Pass through high , altitude passes and alpine meadows.
- Traverse lush cloud forests and subtropical valleys.
- The Inca Trail offers unparalleled natural beauty.
- Enjoy the serene Humantay Lake: A Mirror Of The Peruvian Andes views.
Experienced support team:
- You will have professional guides throughout your trek.
- Dedicated porters ensure your comfort and safety.
- A skilled cook provides delicious and nourishing meals.
- Feel safe, cared for, and well-fed during your entire Inca Trail journey.
- Our team enhances your trekking experience in Peru.
Small group experience:
- Limited daily permits ensure a quiet and respectful journey.
- Enjoy an immersive experience without overwhelming crowds.
- This fosters a deeper connection with the historical route.
- Ali Peru Treks prioritizes a personal Machu Picchu adventure.
Considerations of the Inca Trail 4 Days
Limited availability:
- Inca Trail permits often sell out months in advance.
- Booking early is essential, especially during the dry season.
- The dry season runs from May to September.
- Secure your spot on this popular Inca Trail trek well ahead.
- Check, Inca Trail Permits, availability regularly.
Altitude challenges:
- The trek reaches elevations over 4,200 meters (13,800 feet).
- Altitude sickness may be a concern for some trekkers.
- Acclimatization in Cusco before the trek is strongly recommended.
- Allow extra days in Cusco for proper adjustment.
Refer to [Physical Training For The Inca Trail: A Complete Preparation Guide].
Moderate to high physical demand:
- No technical climbing is required on this Andean trek.
- Daily hikes can last 6–9 hours with significant elevation changes.
- Basic fitness and preparation are important for this Machu Picchu trek.
- Prepare adequately for this rewarding Peru adventure.
Weather variations:
- The Inca Trail weather can change rapidly.
- Expect hot and sunny or cold and rainy conditions, sometimes in one day.
- Proper layering and quality rain gear are essential.
- Always be prepared for diverse mountain weather.
- Consult , The Best Time To Visit Cusco: Weather, Festivals, And Tips .
Eco-conscious travel:
- As a protected historical route, respect is paramount.
- Hikers must follow Leave No Trace principles strictly.
- Respect both the natural environment and local customs.
- Ali Peru Treks promotes responsible tourism in Peru.
No last-minute changes:
- Once your Inca Trail permit is issued, it is non transferable.
- Changes to dates or names are not allowed by the Peruvian government.
- Plan your Machu Picchu adventure carefully in advance.
Your adventure begings early around 4:00 AM.We pick you up from your hotel in Cusco, Urubamba, or Ollantaytambo. The drive to Piscacucho (Km 82) takes about two hours. Here, the Classic inca trail officially starts. You will meet your dedicated team: a guide, chef, and porters. Enjoy a delicious breakfast prepared by your Ali Peru Treks chef. Ensure you have your original passport for entry to the Inca trail permits checkpoint.
After the first control, we begin our four hour hike. This segment is relatively easy. We focus on visiting the significant archaeological site of Llactapata. Your knowledgeable guide will detail its history and functions. You will have ample time to explore this ancient Inca site. Following our exploration, a 30 minute walk leads to Tonasmoqo village. Here, a delicious lunch awaits, prepared by your team.
Refill your water bottles after lunch. Then, we hike another three hours to our first campsite in Ayapata. During this part of the journey, we pass through two important local communities. These communities still speak Quechua, the language of the Incas. You can visit local homes and learn about their unique cultures. We arrive at camp around 5:00 PM; your tent will be ready. After a short rest, enjoy hot tea and a well, deserved dinner. This is the perfect start to your Machu Picchu adventure.
Today is another exciting day on the Inca Trail . Your chef will wake you with a warm cup of tea. You have 30 minutes to pack your belongings. A hearty breakfast will then be ready for you. Afterwards, prepare for a four, hour ascent. This leads to Warmiwañuska, the highest point of the INCA TRAIL, at 4,215 meters (13,828 feet). From here, enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding mountain ranges. Your guide will perform a small ceremony. This involves coca leaves, making an offering to the apus, local mountain gods.
Next, we descend for two hours to Pacaymayo High. Here, we enjoy lunch and refill water bottles. Then, a 45 minute climb takes us to the Inca site of Runcuraccay. Explore this archaeological site and enjoy privileged views of beautiful waterfalls. We continue climbing another 40 minutes to the Runkurakay pass at 4,000 meters (13,123 feet). From this point, you can enjoy stunning landscapes with glaciers. This challenging section rewards trekkers with incredible scenery.
After the Runkurakay pass, we descend for one hour. This leads us to Sayacmarca, another fascinating Inca site. After exploring Sayacmarca, we continue hiking for 25 minutes. This brings us to our campsite at Chaquicocha, located at 3,700 meters (12,139 feet). The day concludes with a delicious dinner. If time permits, you will have the opportunity to contemplate the beautiful constellations. This completes a challenging but rewarding day of hiking in Peru.
This is often considered the most beautiful and relaxing day of your journey. The hike covers six hours through various ecological zones. We start early at 6:00 AM. A two hour hike, both uphill and downhill, takes us to Phuyupatamarca. Here, we begin entering the cloud forest, the edge of the jungle. On a clear day, you might see the majestic Salkantay trek to machu picchu 5d/4n , mountain. You can also spot the Vilcabamba mountain range. At the Phuyupatamarca Inca site, enjoy excellent views of the Urubamba River. This spot offers your first glimpse of Machu Picchu mountain itself.
After exploring the unique Inca site of Phuyupatamarca, we descend for three hours. This long flight of stairs leads to our campsite. During the descent, we arrive at Intipata. This was another significant Inca agricultural site. We typically arrive at our campsite around 1:00 PM. The rest of the day is yours to relax. You can also take a well deserved shower. This day combines stunning views with historical exploration.
Around 4:00 PM, you will have the opportunity to visit Wiñaywayna. This Inca site is the most spectacular on the Inca Trail , second only to Machu Picchu. Your guide will explain the importance of this site. In the evening, after dinner, we organize a special ceremony. This is to thank your dedicated team for their hard work. We rest early tonight, preparing for the final day’s early start. This beautiful segment highlights the best of Inca engineering.
Today is the culmination of your Classic inca trail adventure. We wake up early to visit the iconic Machu Picchu . Enjoy an early breakfast before heading to the checkpoint. This checkpoint opens promptly at 5:30 AM. After passing through, we hike for one hour. This takes us to Inti Punku, the Sun Gate. From here, you will witness Machu Picchu in all its majesty and grandeur. This first view is truly unforgettable.
From Inti Punku, we walk downhill for about 40 minutes. This leads directly to the main platform of Machu Picchu. Take spectacular photographs and immerse yourself in the archaeological site of Machu Picchu. After enjoying these initial views, we exit the Inca site. We use the restrooms and then re enter for a comprehensive two hour guided tour. Your expert guide will lead you to the best viewpoints and most significant areas within Machu Picchu.
Once our exploration of the archaeological site concludes, we take a bus. This short ride brings us to the charming town of Aguas Calientes. In Aguas Calientes, your guide can take you to a recommended restaurant for lunch. Please note that lunch is optional and not included in the tour price. You can choose to have lunch with the group or explore the town on your own. Many choose to visit the Hot springs: come and enjoy this adventure . After lunch, your guide will escort you to the train station. You will board the return train from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo. This scenic journey takes approximately two hours. In Ollantaytambo, our dedicated staff will be waiting. They will transfer you back to Cusco and drop you off at your hotel. This marks the incredible end of your Inca Trail To Machu Picchu adventure. Consider exploring a Half Day City Tour In Cusco or a Tour To Sacred Valley Full Day after your trek.
INCLUDES
What Your Classic Inca Trail Trek Includes
Pre-Trek Briefing:
A comprehensive briefing takes place the day before your trek at 5:00 PM.
This essential meeting is at your hotel, lasting 45 minutes to one hour.
You will meet your expert guide and have all questions answered.
This is a great moment to review tips fromPhysical training for the inca trail: a complete preparation guide.
Personal Duffle Bag:
Our porters carry up to 7 kg (15 lbs) of your personal items.
This weight includes your sleeping bag.
You will receive your duffle bag during the pre-trek briefing.
Pack smart using advice from Essential equipment for trekking in the cusco andes .
Professional Trekking Guides:
Our guides are highly experienced and university-accredited.
They speak fluent English and have extensive experience in Peru Treks .
All guides are skilled in first aid and rescue techniques.
They come from Andean communities, enriching your cultural experience.
They lead many routes, from the Classic Inca Trail To The Salkantay Trek To Machu Picchu 5d/4n .
Expert Chefs:
Our chefs are trained in local gastronomy schools.
They prepare delicious modern Andean, traditional Peruvian, and international meals.
Vegetarian options are readily available for all diets.
Food hygiene and safety are top priorities during preparation.
Discover more about Flavors Of Cusco: A Journey Through Its Local Gastronomy .
Dedicated Porters:
Porters carry all group gear and your personal 7 kg duffle bag.
They are from rural Cusco communities, preserving local customs.
We provide accident insurance and suitable clothing for their comfort.
Our porters help make your Camino Inca Clásico journey unforgettable.
High-Quality Tents:
We provide durable high-mountain tents for your comfort.
These tents withstand challenging weather conditions, including rain and snow.
Each tent accommodates two people for comfort.
A private tent is available for an additional supplement.
Comfortable Sleeping Mattresses:
Inflatable mattresses are included for a comfortable night’s sleep.
These are provided for all three nights of camping.
Paired with a good sleeping bag, these ensure rest on your trek inca 4 days .
Spacious Dining Tent:
Enjoy meals in our roomy dining tent.
It comes complete with chairs and a table.
This tent provides a comfortable space regardless of outside weather.
Fully Equipped Cooking Tent:
Comes with all the necessary equipment for our chef to prepare your meals (gas stove and all food preparation utensils).
Bathroom Tents:
These tents have toilets with water pumps, and we will install them at all our lunch spots and campsites.
Transportation:
Bus transportation from Cusco to Piscacucho (Km 82) is included.
After your trek, a bus service descends from the Machu Picchu archaeological site to Aguas Calientes.
Your return train ticket from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo is provided. This is a Vistadome or 360° class service.
Learn more about Why Is Ollantaytambo An Unmissable Adventure? Discover It Here .
Bus transport from Ollantaytambo back to your Cusco hotel is also included.
Consider a Half Day City Tour In Cusco upon your return.
Emergency equipment:
Satellite phones:Each of our groups carries a satellite phone at all times to communicate with our office in case of emergency or for clients to use in case they have a personal emergency anywhere in the world.
Oxygen tank: Each of our teams carries an oxygen tank at all times in case of emergency.
Radios: They have a range of 10 km and 8 frequencies for our guides, cooks and porters to communicate with each other.
First aid kit: We carry a full complement of over-the-counter medicines, such as alcohol, hydrogen peroxide, tincture of iodine, germicidal soap, cotton, gauze, bandages, adhesive tape, surgical gloves, analgesics for muscle and stomach pain, antipyretics, antiallergic, anti-inflammatory, oral rehydration salts, laxatives, cream for burns, splints, blood pressure monitors and thermometers. If you take prescription medication, you may bring your own medications.
Entrance Tickets:
Your Inca Trail Permits (entrance ticket to the Inca Trail) are included.
The entrance ticket to Machu Picchu is also covered.
For future visits, consultMachu Picchu In 2025: Complete Guide To Visit With All Peru Treks .
Water:
All necessary water is provided from your first lunch to your last breakfast.
Water is boiled, purified, and cooled before distribution.
Bring your own water bottle or CamelBak (3 liter capacity recommended).
You can refill your water at every meal during this trekking a Machu Picchu.
Small details:
We believe in enhancing your Classic inca trail experience.
Each hiker receives a small sleeping pillow.
An inflatable mattress and a backpack rain cover are also provided.
A rain poncho is included to protect you from the elements.
NOT INCLUDES
What’s Not Included in Your Classic Inca Trail Tour
Rent:
On this tour each hiker needs a sleeping bag to sleep in at the campsites and walking poles (with rubber tips) are optional but recommended. If you do not wish to bring any of the above, they are all available for rent:
Sleeping bag: $20
Trekking poles(pair): $15
Find details on what to bring in our , Essential Equipment For Trekking In The Cusco Andes guide.
Post-Machu Picchu Lunch:
Lunch after your Machu Picchu tour in Aguas Calientes is not included.
This gives you flexibility to choose your dining experience.
You can explore, Flavors of cusco: a journey through its local gastronomy, for local options.
Enjoy a diverse range of Peruvian cuisine in the town.
Huayna Picchu:
Huayna Picchu mountain. it is a 40 minute hike that it will take you to get to the top and another 40 minutes it will take you to go back down. The tour would be done after your tour of Machu Picchu. The additional cost is $70 per person. Upgrades should be made at least one month in advance, due to the popularity and crowdedness of the place. Now regarding the weather, we can not do anything because it does not depend on us.
To confirm your Inca Trail trek, a non refundable deposit of $200 USD per person is required. This payment secures your place immediately. It allows us to arrange key components of your journey.
The Inca Trail is a popular trek. Limited daily permits are issued by the Peruvian government. These permits sell out quickly, especially during high season (May to September). They must be purchased in advance using your passport information. Once issued, Inca Trail permits are non refundable and non transferable.
This is why we require a deposit upfront. Your deposit also helps us book train tickets, hotel accommodations, entrance fees, and logistics. This ensures a smooth and well organized experience. Securing your spot early guarantees access to this unforgettable adventure. You can focus on preparing for your journey along the iconic Inca Trail to Machu Picchu. Consult Inca Trail permits for more details.
Inca Trail permits are strictly limited to 500 people per day. This includes guides, cooks, and porters. It is strongly recommended to book your tour at least six months in advance. If you plan to hike during the high season (May to September), book even earlier. Aim for around October of the previous year. This is when the government releases the permits. With Ali Peru Treks, you can make a no obligation pre reservation. This helps secure your spot while you finalize flights or accommodations. For detailed planning, consider our ;Machu Picchu In 2025: Complete Guide To Visit With All Peru Treks.
Our tours offer a complete, safe, and culturally immersive experience.
The package includes:
- Professional, licensed guides with deep knowledge of Inca history and culture
- Porters to carry camping equipment
- All meals during the trek (breakfast, lunch, dinner, snacks)
- High quality camping gear: tents, mattresses, tables, chairs, and dining tent
- Entrance fees to the Inca Trail and Machu Picchu.
- Train tickets back and all ground transportation to and from Cusco
- Vegetarian and special diet options available upon request
Ali Peru Treks specializes in small group experiences, ensuring personalized service and authentic cultural connection.
Yes, acclimatizing is essential for a safe Inca Trail trek. It significantly reduces the risk of altitude sickness. This can affect even healthy individuals. It is recommended to spend at least two nights in Cusco or the Sacred Valley. Do this before starting the Inca Trail. This allows your body time to adapt to the altitude. Cusco sits at 3,400 meters (11,200 feet). You can take light day tours during this time. Options include Tour To Sacred Valley Full Day or visiting sites like Moray or Pisac. This helps your body adjust gradually. Ali Peru Treks provides guidance on hydration, diet, and best practices. We ensure you are prepared for this Andean adventure. For more tips, read Physical Training For The Inca Trail: A Complete Preparation Guide .
The Inca Trail is considered a challenging trek. However, it is accessible to most people with a reasonable level of fitness. The trail is about 43 kilometers (26 miles) long. It takes four days to complete this trek to Machu Picchu. Hikers will experience a mix of steep ascents and descents. This is particularly true when climbing to the Dead Woman’s Pass (Warmi Wañusqa). This pass is at 4,200 meters (13,780 feet).
While physical difficulty varies, altitude is a major challenge. To make the trek easier, spend a few days acclimatizing in Cusco. Proper preparation, a positive attitude, and experienced support are key. Our porters and guides make the Inca Trail an incredible and rewarding experience.
The classic 4 day Inca Trail is considered moderate to challenging. You do not need to be an athlete. However, you should be prepared to hike 6 to 10 hours per day. This includes steep ascents and long descents.
Day 2 is the most demanding. You will cross the highest point of the trek, Dead Woman’s Pass (Warmiwañusca). This challenging pass is at 4,215 meters above sea level. If you lead an active lifestyle, you are likely in good shape. Training with cardio and strength endurance in the weeks before your trip helps. This ensures you complete the trek successfully. Prepare for this trekking adventure in Peru .
Here are the essentials you will need for your Inca Trail adventure:
- A small daypack (25–30 liters) for daily items.
- Comfortable, broken in hiking boots with good grip
- Layered clothing: thermal shirts, fleece, windbreaker, rain gear
- Wool socks and a full change of clothes
- Hat or cap, sunglasses, and sunscreen
- Insect repellent (especially near Machu Picchu)
- Refillable water bottle or hydration system
- Sleeping bag (available to rent if you don’t have one)
- Original passport (required for Inca Trail and Machu Picchu entry)
Ali Peru Treks will send you a detailed and customized packing list. This is provided ahead of your tour. For more details, see Essential Equipment For Trekking In The Cusco Andes.
Sustainability is a core value for Ali Peru Treks. We are committed to promoting low impact, responsible tourism. We enforce a strict «Leave No Trace» policy on all Peru treks. We ensure fair compensation and respectful treatment for all local porters. We use fresh, locally sourced ingredients for meals. We collaborate with Andean communities through training and social projects. We are gradually eliminating single-use plastics in all our operations. We want every traveler to admire the Inca legacy. We also want them to become a part of its preservation. Our efforts support eco-conscious travel in Peru.
If Inca Trail permits are sold out for your preferred dates, we offer stunning alternatives:
- The Salkantay Trek To Machu Picchu 5d/4n is a high mountain scenic trek. It does not require permits.
- The Lares Trek To Machu Picchu 4d/3n is ideal for a cultural immersion. It explores remote Andean communities.
- The Short Inca Trail To Machupicchu With Hotel 2d/1n: starts at Km 104. It includes part of the original trail with a grand entrance to Machu Picchu through the Sun Gate.
- Custom itineraries: We can combine hikes, cultural tours, and day trips based on your fitness level and schedule
Our team will help you select the best route for your goals and timeframe.
Our dedicated porters will carry your duffle bag. This bag can hold up to 7 kg (15 lbs) of your personal belongings. This limit includes your sleeping bag and inflatable mattress. You’ll receive your duffle bag at a pre-trek briefing. This meeting takes place at your hotel the day before your trek, at 5:00 PM. Pack wisely for your Classic Inca Trail adventure.
- 2-3 T-shirts for daily wear.
- 2-3 mountain pants for varied conditions.
- 4 sets of underwear
- 4 sets of mountain socks
- 1 fleece layer for warmth.
- 1 warm down jacket; nights get very cold on the Inca Trail.
- 1 raincoat and matching pants for rain protection.
- 1 sun hat for daytime treks.
- 1 wool hat for chilly evenings.
- Headlamp: This is an essential item for navigating camp.
- Waterproof gloves; even ski gloves are highly recommended.
- Comfortable camping shoes for relaxing in camp.
- Hiking boots: Ensure they are broken in for the trail.
- Waterproof jacket or a reliable rain poncho.
- Quick drying towel; we provide small ones, but you may prefer larger.
- Small bottle of soap: We offer hot water daily for cleaning.
- Battery charger: No electrical outlets are available while trekking in Peru.
- Large plastic bags: Essential for organizing clean and dirty items.
- Sleeping bag: We recommend a down sleeping bag for -10°C (14°F) minimum.
For more detailed advice, consult Essential Equipment For Trekking In The Cusco Andes.
These are the crucial items you’ll need personally during your Inca Trail to Machu Picchu journey.
- Original passport (no copy): Required for Inca Trail permits and Machu Picchu entry.
- Valid student card (if you have booked as a student).
- A good backpack (max. 14 liters).
- Water tank: A CamelBak type water tank is recommended. Ensure it holds at least 2-3 liters. Staying hydrated is vital for altitude challenges.
- Comfortable hiking boots (light and with good soles).
Pack these personal hygiene items for your comfort during the Andean trek.
- Sunscreen for high-altitude protection.
- Facial moisturizer.
- Mosquito repellents, especially near Machu Picchu.
- Moist towelettes for quick clean ups.
- Toilet paper.
- Personal medication, as needed.
We recommend carrying a small backpack, maximum 25 liters. Smaller is better, as backpacks larger than 25L are not allowed inside Machu Picchu. This bag holds your daily necessities for your Machu Picchu adventure.
- Water: It’s not provided at the very beginning of the trek, so bring your own. We will provide purified water daily after lunch. Staying hydrated is key for high altitude trekking.
- Fleece layer for sudden temperature drops.
- Camera to capture stunning Andean landscapes.
- Hat for sun or cold protection.
- Rain Gear:Be prepared for unpredictable weather variations on the trail.
- Hand sanitizer for hygiene.
- Toilet paper and a small plastic bag for personal garbage.
- Extra money for souvenirs, drinks, and tips.
- Ear plugs for peaceful sleep at campsites.
For tips on preparing for challenging sections, see Physical Training For The Inca Trail: A Complete Preparation Guide.
- Tour Type:
- Duration
- Group Size
- Dificultad
- Housing
Camping
- Language
- Distance
