Home » Tours » Private Inca Trail Tours to Machu Picchu 4 Days
DURATION
4 days 3 nights
MAX ALTITUDE
4,215 m 13,828 ft
DIFFICULTY
Challenging
GROUP SIZE
Max. 12 Pax
SEASON
March to January
DISTANCE
45 km
Private Inca Trail Tours 4 days
Private Inca Trail Tours 4 Days 3 Nights
Private Inca Trail Tours to Machu Picchu 4 Days
The Private Inca Trail Tour is the most intimate way to experience the legendary Inca Trail 4 Days to Machu Picchu. Unlike standard group treks, this 4-day private departure is reserved exclusively for your party, with a dedicated certified guide, campsites within the authorized camping areas of the trail away from the crowds, and gourmet meals prepared by a private chef at altitude.
Over four days, you’ll pass through microclimates ranging from high Andean puna to cloud forest, explore ruins like Sayacmarca and Wiñay Wayna at your own pace, with flexible time at each site, conquer the 13,828 ft Dead Woman’s Pass at your own pace, and arrive at the Sun Gate (Inti Punku) in the early morning, then entry to the citadel around 8:00 AM.
Overview
Private Inca Trail Tour 4-Day Overview
The Private Inca Trail Tour is a 4-day, 3-night trekking route from Km 82 to Machu Picchu, operated exclusively for a single private party rather than a mixed group of strangers. It follows the same 45 km (27 miles) Classic Inca Trail route used by standard group departures, but with a dedicated guide, chef, and support team assigned only to the travelers who booked together, and with flexibility in pacing and campsite coordination that fixed-departure group tours do not offer.
Tour Highlights
Dedicated certified guide assigned exclusively to one travel party for the full 4 days
Dead Woman’s Pass (4,215 m / 13,828 ft), the highest point on the Classic Inca Trail, hiked at a self-determined pace
Inca sites along the route, including Runkurakay, Sayacmarca, Phuyupatamarca, and Wiñay Wayna
Arrival at Machu Picchu through the Sun Gate in the early morning, then entry to the citadel around 8:00 AM. ahead of the bus-arrival crowds
No fixed departure date requirement beyond permit availability, unlike group tours tied to set calendar dates
Highlights: Inti Punku (Sun Gate) & Citadel Guided Tour
Quick Facts
Detail
Information
Duration
4 days, 3 nights
Total distance
45 km / 27 miles
Maximum altitude
4,215 m / 13,828 ft (Dead Woman’s Pass)
Difficulty level
Challenging
Group size
Max. 12 travelers (private party only, no strangers added)
Season
March to January (closed in February)
Accommodation
Camping, 3 nights
Starting point
Km 82, Sacred Valley
Ending point
Machu Picchu via the Sun Gate (Inti Punku)
Permit required
Yes—official Inca Trail permit, government-issued and limited
Difficulty and Physical Requirements
The Private Inca Trail is rated challenging. Day 2 is the most demanding, involving a sustained climb from 3,300 m to the 4,215 m Dead Woman’s Pass before descending to camp at 3,600 m. Day 3 involves a long descent on uneven original Inca stone stairs, which is harder on joints than the ascent despite a lower difficulty rating. Day 4 is a short, mostly flat walk to Machu Picchu.
Day
Terrain
Difficulty
Distance
Day 1
Valley ascent, acclimatization
Moderate
14 km / 8.7 mi
Day 2
High-pass ascent and descent
Challenging
16 km / 9.9 mi
Day 3
Stone stairs, cloud forest descent
Moderate
10 km / 6.2 mi
Day 4
Short walk to Machu Picchu
Easy
5 km / 3.1 mi
Because pacing is not fixed to a group average on a private tour, travelers with slower walking speeds, minor mobility limitations, or those trekking with children or older family members can complete the same route with more rest stops and flexible timing than a standard group departure allows.
Altitude and Acclimatization
The trek’s highest point, Dead Woman’s Pass, sits at 4,215 m (13,828 ft). Campsites range from 2,650 m to 3,600 m over the three nights. At least 2 days in Cusco (3,400 m) before the trek; 3 recommended. before starting is recommended, and private departures make it easier to schedule a later start time on Day 2 if a traveler needs a slower ascent to the pass.
Weather and Best Time to Trek
The dry season for the 4-day Inca Trail runs from April through October, with May through September being the most stable and recommended time to take the hike.
Season
Months
Conditions
Dry season
April – October
Clear skies, cold nights, most stable trail conditions
Rainy season
November – March
Frequent rain, muddy trail, fewer trekkers
Trail closure
February
The entire Inca Trail network is closed for maintenance. private and group alike
Archaeological Sites Along the Route
Llactapata—a large Inca settlement with agricultural terraces, overlooking the Urubamba Valley
Runkurakay—a round-shaped structure believed to have served as a lookout or resting post along the Inca road, seen shortly after Dead Woman’s Pass.
Sayacmarca—a defensive, terraced site accessed by a steep staircase, notable for its irregular, cliff-adapted layout.
Phuyupatamarca—meaning “town above the clouds”—a well-preserved site with ceremonial baths, typically reached in cloud-forest fog.
Intipata—A stunning Inca archaeological site, famous for its extensive network of agricultural terraces
Wiñay Wayna—one of the largest and best-preserved sites on the trail, with residential and ceremonial terraces.
Machu Picchu—the final destination, entered via the Sun Gate (Inti Punku) on Day 4.
Private Inca Trail vs Classic Inca Trail: Full Comparison
The core difference between a private Inca Trail and a classic Inca Trail is the group dynamic: a classic tour places you in an open group of 8 to 16 other travelers, whereas a private tour restricts the group exclusively to you and your chosen travel partners. Both options follow the exact same physical 45 km (27 miles) historical path.
Feature
Classic Inca Trail (Group)
Private Inca Trail
Group Size
8 to 16 mixed travelers
Only your booked party
Pace Flexibility
Dictated by group average
Completely customizable
Guide Attention
Shared across the group
Dedicated guide for your party only
Campsites
Standard, high-traffic areas
Private dining and toilet tents set up for your group
Who This Tour Is Best For
Travelers who want to set their own pace rather than match a group average, particularly at Dead Woman’s Pass
Families or groups traveling with children, older adults, or a mix of fitness levels
Couples or small groups wanting a dedicated guide and private campsites rather than a shared group experience
Those booking on a specific date not aligned with fixed group departure calendars
This tour is not necessary for solo travelers on a strict budget or those who enjoy meeting other trekkers—a standard Classic Inca Trail group departure covers the same route and sites at a lower price point.
Permits and Booking Requirements
An official Inca Trail permit is required for both private and group departures; permits are personal, non-transferable, and non-refundable once issued, per Peruvian law.
Permits are limited daily and typically sell out 4-6 months in advance for the June-September dry season.
Booking requires a deposit, full passport details for permit issuance, and the original physical passport carried on the trail—photocopies are not accepted at checkpoints.
Travel insurance covering high-altitude trekking and rescue above 4,215 m is required.
Practical Travel Tips
At least 2 days in Cusco before the trek (3 recommended)
Sleeping bags and trekking poles are typically available for rental.
Day 4’s schedule ends with a guided tour of Machu Picchu before the return train to Cusco via Ollantaytambo.
Extra permits for Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain must be booked separately and well in advance.
Itinerary
Private Inca Trail Tours 4-Day Itinerary
Day 1: Cusco – Ollantaytambo – km 82 – Hatunchaca – Ayapata
Your epic Private 4-Day Classic Inca Trail adventure starts with a seamless pick-up directly from your hotel in Cusco, Urubamba, or Ollantaytambo. At approximately 5:00 AM, your expert guide and our private transport will pick you up to head toward the picturesque town of Ollantaytambo. We will make a strategic stop there to enjoy a revitalizing breakfast and make final preparations.
From there, we will continue toward Km 82, the official gateway to the Inca Trail. Here, you will meet your dedicated team of professional porters and our talented chef. It is essential to ensure you have the original passport used for your booking, as we will pass the official government checkpoint to begin our legendary journey.
We begin with an acclimatization hike, passing by the Inca site of Ccanabamba and the impressive archaeological site of Llactapata, where your guide will reveal the secrets of this ancient large Inca settlement with agricultural terraces, overlooking the Urubamba Valley. Afterward, we will hike for two more hours toward Hatunchaca to enjoy a gourmet Andean lunch and a brief, restorative siesta.
In the afternoon, we will ascend toward our first campsite in Ayapata (3,300 m / 10,827 ft). On the way, we will pass through Wayllabamba, the last village on the route and your final opportunity to buy snacks or additional drinks.
Upon arrival at Ayapata, your professional tents and high-quality inflatable mattresses will already be set up and ready for you—an exclusive comfort. We will end the day with a comforting «Tea Time» and a spectacular dinner under the starlit Andean sky.
Starting Altitude (Km 82): 8,923 ft / 2,720 m
Campsite Altitude (Ayapata): 10,827 ft / 3,300 m
Total Distance: Approx. 8.7 miles / 14 km
Hiking Time: 6 hours
Elevation Gain: +1,904 ft / +580 m
Difficulty Level: Moderate (Acclimatization day)
Highlights: Llactapata Inca Site, Ccanabamba, views of the Urubamba River, and premium comfort at Ayapata.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner.
Day 2: Ayapata – Dead Woman Pass – Pacaymayo – Chaquicocha
Your second day begins with a comforting cup of coca tea served directly to your tent, followed by a high-energy breakfast prepared by our chef. This is the most demanding day of the trek, but also the most rewarding. We depart from Ayapata early to begin a steady ascent through the Llullucha Valley.
The first major goal is to conquer the legendary Dead Woman’s Pass (Warmiwañusca), the highest point of the trail at 4,215 m (13,828 ft). Upon reaching the summit, you will feel an incredible sense of accomplishment while enjoying breathtaking 360-degree views of the surrounding peaks. After a well-deserved break and a group photo, we will begin a steep descent into the Pacaymayo Valley to enjoy a delicious gourmet lunch.
After lunch, the journey continues with a second, shorter ascent toward the RunkurakayPass (4,000 m). Along the way, we will explore the circular ruins of Runkurakay and then descend toward the magnificent site of Sayacmarca, an architectural gem perched on the edge of a cliff. We will conclude the day at our scenic campsite in Chaquicocha, where you can relax and enjoy the sunset over the Vilcabamba mountain range.
As always, our team will have your campsite ready upon your arrival. Enjoy our «Tea Time» with hot drinks and snacks before a well-earned gourmet dinner to replenish your energy. After dinner, under the pristine Andean sky, your expert guide will show you the Andean constellations, and you will learn about fascinating Inca cosmology beneath the stars.
Starting Altitude (Ayapata): 10,827 ft / 3,300 m
Campsite Altitude (Chaquicocha): 11,811 ft / 3,600 m
Highest Point (Dead Woman’s Pass): 13,828 ft / 4,215 m
Total Distance: 9.9 miles / 16 km
Hiking Time: 9–10 hours
Difficulty Level: Challenging (The most intense day)
Highlights: Dead Woman’s Pass, Sayacmarca exploration, and Inca astronomy.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner.
Day 3: Chaquicocha – Phuyupatamarca – Wiñay Wayna
After the most intense day of trekking, the third day begins with a nutritious breakfast to recharge your energy. This section welcomes us with spectacular landscapes and a more relaxed pace, designed to deeply connect with nature. We begin our hike from Chaquicocha, entering the fascinating cloud forest. For many travelers, this is the most beautiful sector of the entire Inca Trail, where we will cross original stone tunnels and observe a vibrant biodiversity unique in the world.
Our first stop is Phuyupatamarca (Town Above the Clouds), located at 12,073 ft (3,680 m). From this strategic point, we will enjoy breathtaking views of Mount Salkantay and the majestic Urubamba Valley. After exploring its ritual fountains, we will begin the descent via perfectly preserved Inca stairways toward the site of Intipata, an impressive agricultural terrace offering an unparalleled panoramic view of the river and mountains.
Finally, we will arrive at our campsite at Wiñay Wayna. Here, you will have plenty of time to enjoy a refreshing and revitalizing shower. In the afternoon, we will take a guided tour of the stunning Inca site of Wiñay Wayna («Forever Young»), considered the most spectacular and mystical archaeological complex before reaching the citadel of Machu Picchu.
As night falls at our camp, our team will have everything ready for our final gourmet Andean dinner. Tonight is truly special: we’ll celebrate the success of the expedition and say goodbye to our incredible team of porters and cooks with a heartfelt ceremony of gratitude. It’s the perfect time to share experiences and reflections before the grand finale the next day.
Starting Altitude (Chaquicocha): 11,811 ft / 3,600 m
Campsite Altitude (Wiñay Wayna): 8,700 ft / 2,650 m
Total Distance: Approx. 6.2 miles / 10 km
Hiking Time: 5–6 hours of scenic trekking.
Comfort: Free time for a shower and relaxation at the camp.
Highlights: Phuyupatamarca, authentic Inca tunnels, Intipata terraces, and detailed exploration of Wiñay Wayna.
Today marks the culmination of your epic Classic Inca Trail adventure. We will wake up before dawn to be among the first at the final checkpoint, which opens promptly at 5:30 AM. After crossing, we begin the final one-hour hike toward the legendary Inti Punku (Sun Gate).
From this ancient vantage point, you will witness a sublime moment: the first panoramic view of Machu Picchu bathed in the first rays of the rising sun. It is a truly unforgettable experience and the ultimate reward for every step taken along the trail.
From the Sun Gate, we will descend for approximately 1 hour to reach the main platform of Circuit 1, the perfect location to capture the classic postcard photographs of the citadel. After immortalizing this moment, we will take a brief technical break and exit the Inca site to use the restrooms located outside the archaeological area.
After the break, we’ll re-enter through Circuit 3 to begin your two-hour private guided tour. Our expert guide will take you through the most iconic areas, revealing the rich history and mysteries surrounding this wonder of the world.
Optional Challenge: Huayna Picchu
For adrenaline seekers who booked the Huayna Picchu permit in advance, you will embark on a challenging 1 hour up, 1 hour down (about 2–3 hours total) to the summit, followed by a one-hour descent. From the top, you will enjoy a unique and dizzying aerial perspective of the entire citadel (please note: this requires booking months in advance due to high demand).
Once the exploration is complete, we will take the shuttle bus down to the town of Aguas Calientes. You will have time to enjoy a revitalizing lunch (optional) before your guide accompanies you to the train station. We will travel by train to Ollantaytambo, where our dedicated staff will be waiting to transfer you in our private transportation directly to your hotel door in Cusco, concluding an incomparable life experience.
Starting Altitude (Wiñay Wayna): 8,700 ft / 2,650 m
Machu Picchu Altitude: 7,972 ft / 2,430 m.
Total Distance: Approx. 3.1 miles / 5 km
Hiking Time: 2 hours to the photo platform.
Highlights: Sunrise at Inti Punku, Classic postcard photos (Circuit 1), Specialized tour (Circuit 3), and private return to Cusco.
Meals Included: Breakfast.
Includes
What’s Included
Pre-Trek Briefing: A comprehensive meeting with your expert guide the day before your trek to answer all questions.
Personal DuffelBag: Our porters carry up to 7 kg (15 lbs) of your personal gear, which includes your sleeping bag.
Professional Trekking Guides: Highly experienced, university accredited guides who speak fluent English.
Expert Chefs: Chefs who prepare delicious modern Andean, traditional Peruvian, and international meals (Vegetarian options available).
Dedicated Porters: Porters carry all group equipment for the entire trek.
High-Quality Tents: Durable, high mountain tents for your comfort (two people per tent).
Comfortable Sleeping Mattresses:Inflatable mattresses are included for three nights of camping.
Spacious Dining Tent: Roomy dining tent complete with chairs and a table.
Fully Equipped Cooking/Bathroom Tents: Includes all necessary cooking gear and bathroom tents with a private portable toilet tent at every campsite.
Bus Cusco to Km 82: Transportation from Cusco to the official starting point of the trek (Piscacucho).
Bus Machu Picchu to Aguas Calientes: Service descends from the archaeological site to the town.
Return Train Ticket: From Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo (Expedition service by PeruRail or The Voyager service by Inca Rail).
Private Cusco Transport: Bus transport from Ollantaytambo back to your hotel in Cusco.
Satellite Phones: Each group carries a satellite phone for emergency communication with the office.
Oxygen Tank: Each team carries an oxygen tank at all times in case of emergency.
Radios: Internal communication radios for guides, cooks, and porters.
First Aid Kit: A full complement of over the counter medicines and emergency supplies.
Entrance Tickets: Your Inca Trail Permit and the entrance ticket to the Machu Picchu Citadel are covered.
Water: All necessary water is provided (boiled, purified, and cooled) from your first lunch to your last breakfast.
Small Details: A sleeping pillow, backpack rain cover, and rain poncho are included for each hiker.
What’s Not Included
Post-Machu Picchu Lunch: The lunch after your Machu Picchu tour in Aguas Calientes is not covered, allowing you dining flexibility.
Huayna Picchu/Machu Picchu Mountain: The additional entrance ticket for climbing Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain ($80 per person) is not included.
Other Expenses: Tips (for guides, cooks, and porters), travel insurance, and personal expenses are not covered.
Packing List
Private Inca Trail Packing List
To ensure a comfortable and safe journey to Machu Picchu, we have prepared this essential guide. Proper preparation is the key to enjoying the Andes.
Essentials ,What To Carry With You
These items must be on your person or in your daypack at all times:
Original Passport: Must be the same document used for your booking.
Valid University Card: (If you booked with a student discount).
Good Daypack: A 30L to 40L backpack is ideal. (Note: Large hiking packs are not allowed inside Machu Picchu).
Water Storage: 2-3 Liters (Reusable bottles or Camelbaks are highly encouraged).
Hiking Boots: Comfortable, broken-in, and with good ankle support.
Headlamp: Essential for navigating campsites at night.
Rain Gear: High-quality poncho or rain jacket.
Personal Documents & Cash: Small denominations in Soles for tips or local snacks.
The Duffel Bag ,Carried By Our Porters
As a 100% locally owned operator, we provide you with a canvas bag during your orientation session. Porters carry a maximum of 20 kg (44 lbs) in total. Your personal duffel bag is limited to 7 kg (15 lbs)
Note on Porter Welfare: By Peruvian Law, duffel bags cannot exceed 7 kg to protect the health of our staff. Please consider that a sleeping bag (approx. 2 kg) and mattress (1 kg) stay inside the bag, leaving you 4 kg for personal clothing.
Inside your Duffel Bag:
Clothing: 2 t-shirts, 2 pairs of hiking pants, 4 sets of undergarments, 3 pairs of hiking socks.
Layers: Fleece, thermals, and a warm down jacket (Temperatures can drop to near or below freezing, especially May–August).
Hand Wear: Waterproof gloves (essential for cold mornings).
Camp Shoes: Comfortable sneakers or sandals to rest your feet at camp.
Sleeping Bag: Rated for at least -15°C (Available for rent through us).
Quick-dry Towel: For personal hygiene.
Power Bank: There is no electricity along the trek.
Toiletries & Health
Sun Protection: Sunscreen (high SPF), sun hat, and sunglasses.
Skin Care: Lip balm and moisturizer (the Andean air is very dry).
Hygiene: Hand sanitizer, wet wipes, toothbrush, and toothpaste.
Insect Repellent: Essential for the final days in the cloud forest.
Medication: Personal prescriptions and a small First Aid kit (band-aids, moleskin for blisters, pain relief).
Daypack Items,your daily Accessories
Since you won’t have access to your duffel bag until the evening campsite, keep these handy:
Daily Water: Please bring your own water for the first morning; we provide boiled/filtered water from the first lunch onwards.
Warm Layers: A fleece or light jacket for when you stop moving.
Snacks: Energy bars, chocolate, or dried fruits to keep your sugar levels up.
Trash Bag: A small plastic bag for your waste (we practice «Leave No Trace»).
Camera: To capture the breathtaking views of the trail and the final arrival at the Sun Gate.
Travel Info
Additional Info for Private Inca Trail Tours
Private Inca Trail Briefing: What to Expect in Cusco
Before your Private Inca Trail Tour begins, you’ll attend a detailed briefing with your guide to ensure you’re fully prepared for the adventure. During this meeting, we’ll review your itinerary, confirm permit details, answer any questions, and provide your duffel bag for personal belongings. You’ll also receive practical recommendations about altitude, weather conditions, packing essentials, and hiking expectations, allowing you to start the trek with complete confidence.
During the briefing, we’ll cover:
Complete day-by-day itinerary
Inca Trail permits and passport verification
Packing guidelines
Duffel bag distribution
Weather and altitude advice
Meeting point and departure time.
Private Access to Inca Sites: Sayacmarca, Phuyupatamarca & Wiñay Wayna
Under the guidance of our expert local guides, you will discover unique archaeological sites accessible only on foot:
Llactapata: large Inca settlement with agricultural terraces, overlooking the Urubamba Valley.
Sayacmarca: An “Inaccessible City” masterfully carved into a steep cliffside.
Phuyupatamarca: The “Town Above the Clouds” where Inca hydraulic engineering still functions today.
Wiñay Wayna: The most stunning complex before the finish line, surrounded by orchids and endless terraces.
Responsible & Ethical Tourism on the Private Inca Trail
We don’t just sell tours; we take care of our family.
Porters carry a maximum of 20 kg (44 lbs) in total. Your personal duffel bag is limited to 7 kg (15 lbs)
Local Impact: We are natives of the Huayllaccocha community. By booking with us, you directly support educational and health projects in our high-Andean communities.
How to Plan Your Private Inca Trail Tour
Acclimatization: At least 2 days in Cusco before the trek (3 recommended)
Peak Season (May to August): Book at least 6 months in advance to secure your permits from the Ministry of Culture.
Safety: Our guides carry emergency oxygen tanks and certified first-aid kits on every trek.
How the Private Inca Trail Experience Works
Every private Inca Trail tour is carefully designed to provide a personalized and unforgettable adventure. Our experienced local guides, professional trekking staff, and dedicated support team ensure every detail is managed with precision, allowing you to focus entirely on enjoying the breathtaking scenery and remarkable archaeological sites along the trail.
Our private service includes:
Professional English-speaking guide
Experienced trekking team
Personalized assistance
High-quality camping equipment
Freshly prepared meals
Safe and well-organized logistics
Can I Customize My Private Inca Trail Tour?
One of the greatest advantages of booking a Private Inca Trail Tour is the flexibility to personalize your experience. While the official hiking route follows government regulations, many aspects of your trip can be tailored to better match your travel style, comfort preferences, and special requests.
Customization Options
Available
Vegetarian or vegan meals
Yes
Hotel upgrades
Yes
Vistadome train upgrade
Yes
Extra porter service
Yes
Additional hotel nights
Yes
Huayna Picchu ticket
Subject to availability
Private airport transfers
Yes
Private Inca Trail Departure Dates & Flexibility
Unlike the Classic Inca Trail, which runs on fixed group departure dates set by tour operators, a private tour departs on the date you choose, subject to permit availability. This is one of the main practical advantages of booking private — especially for travelers with rigid flight schedules or those trying to align the trek with a specific celebration or anniversary.
Private Inca Trail Cost Breakdown
Private Inca Trail pricing depends on group size — larger private groups reduce the per-person cost since fixed expenses like permits and staff are shared.
Group Size
Price Per Person
2 – 3 Trekkers
$900 USD
4 – 5 Trekkers
$850 USD
6 – 7 Trekkers
$800 USD
8 or more Trekkers
$760 USD
Map
Private Inca Trail Map & Elevation Profile
Follow the complete Private Inca Trail route on the map below — from the trailhead at Km 82 through Ayapata, Dead Woman’s Pass, Chaquicocha, and Wiñay Wayna, to the Sun Gate and Machu Picchu. The elevation map shows the altitude profile for each of the 4 days, so you can see exactly where the climbs, the pass, and the descents happen and pace your private trek accordingly.
Price
Private Inca Trail Tour Price
The price for a private Inca Trail tour starts at $900 USD per person for private groups. This price includes government-issued permits, a dedicated certified guide, a private chef, camping equipment, meals, and transportation, with no outsiders added to your group, regardless of group size.
Immediate Permit and Ticket Confirmation
Once your booking and passport details are confirmed, we request your permit immediately, subject to availability. If your date is sold out, we offer alternative dates Given the strict government regulations and limited daily slots for this historic route, your adventure is fully secured with us from the very first moment.
Investment Per Person
Group Size
Price Per Person
2 – 3 Trekkers
$900 USD
4 – 5 Trekkers
$850 USD
6 – 7 Trekkers
$800 USD
8 or more Trekkers
$760 USD
Note: All our tours are strictly priced in US Dollars (USD).
Discounts and Requirements
Student and Minor Discount: $30 off per person.
Requirements: This discount is valid for students holding a current, physical university student ID card or for young travelers aged 17 and under.
Validation: It is mandatory to send a highly legible copy of your student ID or passport at the time of booking to: info@aliperutreks.com.
Equipment Rental and Add-ons
Trekking Poles (Pair): $15 USD (includes rubber tips to protect the ancient Inca stone paths).
Sleeping Bag Rental: $20 USD per person.
Huayna Picchu Mountain: $80 USD additional per person (subject to availability).
Machu Picchu Mountain: $80 USD additional per person (subject to availability).
The Ali Perú Treks Commitment
We are deeply dedicated to excellence. By choosing us, you guarantee high-quality service, elite safety protocols, and exceptional mountain comfort, while directly supporting the well-being of our local team and Andean communities through fair wages and responsible operations.
Faqs
Private Inca Trail Tours FAQ
Yes. The Classic Inca Trail can be booked as a fully Private Inca Trail Tour, allowing you to enjoy the same legendary route to Machu Picchu with a dedicated guide and personalized service exclusively for your party. Although you’ll share the trail with other hikers because access is regulated by the Peruvian government, your guide, porters, chef, meals, camping equipment, and daily schedule are reserved only for your group.
A private trek offers several advantages:
Exclusive guide for your group
Personalized hiking pace
Flexible stops for photography and rest
Private camping equipment and dining setup
Ideal for couples, families, and small groups
The private service offers a personalized pace, a dedicated guide just for you, and more privacy in the campsites. You won’t have to wait for others or feel rushed; the experience is tailored entirely to your physical condition and interests.
The cost of a Private Inca Trail Tour varies depending on the size of your group, travel season, and any optional upgrades you choose. Unlike group departures, private tours include exclusive services designed specifically for your party, resulting in a more personalized experience.
The tour price generally includes:
Official Inca Trail permits
Professional private guide
Porter team
Camping equipment
Freshly prepared meals
Transportation
Expedition train (or upgraded train if selected)
Entrance to Machu Picchu
Optional services such as Huayna Picchu tickets, hotel upgrades, additional porters, or Vistadome train upgrades may increase the final price.
For many travelers, a Private Inca Trail Tour provides exceptional value by offering a more comfortable, flexible, and personalized trekking experience. Instead of adapting to the pace and interests of a larger group, you’ll receive individual attention from your guide and enjoy the freedom to explore archaeological sites at your own rhythm.
A private tour is especially worthwhile if you value:
Personalized service
Flexible itinerary and hiking pace
More in-depth historical explanations
Better opportunities for photography
Greater privacy throughout the trek
A premium experience from start to finish
Since permits for the Inca Trail are strictly limited by the government, we recommend booking at least 6 to 7 months in advance, especially for the high season (May to August).
It is considered challenging. The most difficult day is Day 2, where we ascend to Dead Woman’s Pass (4,215 meters). However, in a private service, our guides manage the pace to ensure you enjoy the journey without overexertion.
Our private guides carry oxygen tanks and first aid kits. We also recommend arriving in Cusco at least 2 days before the trek (3 recommended) to acclimate. Drinking coca tea and staying hydrated is key.
Yes, provided permits are still available. Huayna Picchu is the iconic mountain that rises behind Machu Picchu and requires a separate entrance ticket with limited daily availability. Because these permits often sell out months in advance, we strongly recommend requesting them when booking your Private Inca Trail Tour.
Before adding Huayna Picchu, please consider:
A separate permit is required.
Availability is limited each day.
1 hour up, 1 hour down (about 2–3 hours total).
Good physical condition is recommended.
The visit depends on the official entrance schedule assigned to your ticket.
If Huayna Picchu permits are unavailable, we can also help you explore other panoramic viewpoints within the Machu Picchu Historic Sanctuary
Yes, as long as they are in good health. The private service is ideal for families or seniors because the itinerary can be adjusted for a more comfortable pace.
Yes — We require travel insurance covering high-altitude trekking and emergency evacuation
Why Book Your Private Inca Trail Tour?
We are a local agency born in the community of Huayllaccocha. We treat our porters fairly, support local education, and offer an authentic experience led by professionals who truly love the Andes.
Are tips for porters and guides mandatory?
Tips are not mandatory but are highly appreciated in the Peruvian culture. They are a way to reward the hard work of the porters, chefs, and guides who made your trip possible.
Is a sleeping bag included?
Sleeping bags and hiking poles are generally not included, but they can be rented through us. We provide high-quality down bags rated for sub-zero temperatures.
Does the Private Inca Trail Include a Guided Tour of Machu Picchu?
Absolutely. Your private guide who accompanied you on the trail will also provide a detailed 2-hour guided tour of the Machu Picchu citadel.
What time do we arrive at Machu Picchu on Day 4?
In our private service, we usually leave the last camp early to reach the Sun Gate (Inti Punku) at sunrise. You will enter the citadel around 8:00 AM.
What happens if I cannot finish the trek?
In the event of an emergency or if you cannot continue, our guides follow a strict safety protocol to assist you and, if necessary, coordinate your return to the nearest point of exit.
Is drinking water provided?
Yes. We provide boiled and filtered water from the first lunch until the last breakfast. You only need to bring reusable bottles or a Camelbak.
Do I Have to Carry My Own Backpack on the Private Inca Trail?
You only carry a small daypack with your essentials (water, camera, and sunblock). Our porters will carry a duffel bag (up to 7 kg per person) with your clothes and sleeping gear, which is included in your private package.
Are there toilets and showers at the campsites?
We provide private portable toilet tents at every campsite, ensuring hygiene and comfort. Some campsites have basic public showers, but they are refreshing and revitalizing showers. We provide warm water in basins every morning and evening for personal hygiene.
What Food Is Included on a Private Inca Trail Tour?
You will have a professional mountain chef. In our private service, we offer gourmet Andean meals, including appetizers, main courses, and desserts. We can adapt the menu to any dietary restriction (vegan, gluten-free, allergies) if notified in advance.
What Is the Highest Altitude on the Private Inca Trail?
The highest point is Dead Woman’s Pass (Warmiwañusca) at 4,215 meters (13,828 feet) above sea level.
Is the Private Inca Trail Suitable for First-Time Hikers?
Yes. The Private Inca Trail is an excellent option for first-time trekkers with a reasonable level of fitness. Since you are not required to keep pace with a larger group, your guide can adapt the walking speed, schedule additional rest stops, and provide continuous support throughout the trek.
To prepare for your first multi-day hike, we recommend:
Spending at least two days acclimatizing in Cusco
Walking regularly before your trip
Wearing comfortable hiking boots
Staying well hydrated
Following your guide’s recommendations during the trek
Do I need a visa to hike the Inca Trail?
Depends on nationality — most travelers from the US, Canada, EU, UK, and Australia enter Peru visa-free for a set period, but an original physical passport is required on the trail regardless.
Can dietary restrictions be accommodated on a private trek?
Yes — since meals are prepared exclusively for your group, vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and other restrictions are easier to accommodate on a private tour than a group departure, provided they’re communicated at booking.
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