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Machu Picchu – Classic Inca Trail Hike

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  • Duration4 days / 3 nights.
  • Accommodation Camping shared 2 people.
  • InclusionsEnglish/Spanish Guide, Porter, Permits, Transport.
  • Meals4 Breakfast, 3 Lunch, 3 Dinner.
  • Physical RatingModerate to Hard.
  • Group Size8-16 max.

Inca Trail Hike at a glance

The Classic Inca Trail Hike to Machu Picchu is one of South America’s most popular trekking routes and is consistently ranked among the 10 best hikes in the world. This four-day hike traverses diverse landscapes, including cloud forests, alpine tundra, and subtropical jungle. Along the way, hikers encounter several significant Inca ruins, such as Llactapata and Runkurakay. The highlight of the Inca Trail Hike includes reaching the Sun Gate and then descending to Machu Picchu for an exclusive front row experience. The exclusivity of the Inca Trail tour, regulated by a strict permit system limiting the number of hikers per day, sets it apart from other trails, ensuring a more preserved and intimate experience of the ancient route leading to Machu Picchu.

Highlights of Inca Trail Hike

Machu Picchu: The ancient Inca city and the final destination of the Inca trail hike, offering breathtaking views and a glimpse into Inca architecture and culture with a 2 hour guided tour on the final day.

Exclusive Access: Exclusive access to archeological sites below only available via the Inca trail.

Sun Gate (Inti Punku): The entry point to Machu Picchu with a stunning panoramic view, especially at sunrise.

Wiñay Wayna: An impressive Inca ruin with terraces and religious structures, located near the end of the trail.

Dead Woman’s Pass (Warmiwañusca): The highest point on the trail at 13,828 feet (4,215 meters), providing spectacular views of the surrounding Andean peaks.

Llactapata: An archaeological site with extensive agricultural terraces and ruins of ancient buildings.

Runkurakay: A circular Inca ruin offering insights into the Inca waystations and their strategic significance.

Phuyupatamarca: Known as the “Town in the Clouds,” this site features well-preserved Inca baths and terraces, often enveloped in mist.

Sayacmarca: An Inca ruin perched on a cliff with intricate stonework and panoramic views of the mountains and valleys.

Diverse Landscapes: The trail passes through various ecosystems, including lush cloud forests, high mountain passes, and subtropical jungles.

Cultural Experience: Interaction with local porters and guides, who share insights into Inca history and contemporary Andean culture.

Vistadome Train: Return on the panoramic Vistadome train offering a breathtaking journey through the Peruvian Andes with panoramic windows providing stunning views of the dramatic landscapes. 

Gourmet Cuisine: Delicious Peruvian cuisine with skilled chefs preparing diverse, high-quality meals using fresh local ingredients.

Inca Trail Hike Itinerary

Day 1: Cusco – LLactapata – Ayapata (14km, 8hrs)

The team will pick you up from your hotel in Cusco between 4.30 and 6.30 a.m. We will then drive to the town of Ollantaytambo where you will have breakfast. After a delicious breakfast, we will head straight to the check point to begin your Inca trek. It’s a relatively easy two-hour walk to LLactapata, the first Inca site along the trail.

We will continue for another 2 hours to reach Hatunchaca, where lunch will be waiting. After lunch and some resting time we will walk for another two hours to the first campsite located in Ayapata, arriving at approximately 5.00 p.m.

Your tent, a snack, and a hot drink will be waiting for you. You will then have some time to rest and enjoy the view of the mountains before dinner.

• Campsite Altitude: 3300m / 10826ft
• Distance: 13.5km / 8 miles
• Duration: 8 hours
• Difficulty: Moderate

Day 2: Ayapata – Warmiwañuska – Chaquicocha (16km, 10 hrs)

Today will be the most challenging day. After breakfast, it’s a 4-hour trek uphill to Dead Woman’s Pass. At 4215m / 13829ft, this is the highest point along the Inca Trail. At the summit, we will take time to appreciate the serenity of this location.

After a 2-hour downhill trek to Pacaymayu Valley, we will enjoy a well-earned lunch. The second pass is an easier 2-hour climb, and we will take time to explore two Inca sites Runkuraqay and Sayacmarca. It’s a 20-minute walk to the second campsite at Chaquicocha (3600m / 11811 ft) where you can admire a beautiful sunset over the Vilcabamba mountain range before dinner. With an unobstructed view of the constellations, this is the perfect place to stargazing.

• Campsite altitude: 3600m / 11811ft
• Highest altitude: 4217m / 13835ft
• Distance: 16km / 9 miles
• Duration: 10 hours
• Difficulty: Moderate to difficult

Day 3: Chaquicocha – Phuyupatamarca – Wiñaywayna (10km, 6hrs)

With the hard part well and truly over, you can relax and enjoy the easiest and arguably most interesting day of the trek.  Along the way, you will pass through a number of different ecosystems, experience the atmospheric cloud forest, and observe the magnificent panoramic view of Salkantay Mountain (the second highest in the Cusco region). We will visit two Inca sites: Phuyupatamarka (City in the Clouds), and Intipata (Terraces of the Sun). At Intipata, there will be time to rest and take in your magical surroundings.

We will reach the campsite in the afternoon to have lunch, and you can then enjoy some free time to relax and unwind. Later in the afternoon, we will visit another impressive Inca site – Wiñay Wayna – where your guide will explain the history of this remarkable location. We will then return to the campsite for tea and dinner.

• Campsite Altitude: 2600m / 8530ft

• Highest altitude: 3600m / 11811ft

• Distance: 10km / 6 miles

• Duration: 6 hours

• Difficulty: Easy to moderate

Day 4: Wiñaywayna – Machu Picchu – Cusco (6km, 2 hrs)

On our final day, we have to get up very early to prepare for the highlight of your trip: visiting Machu Picchu. We will go straight to the checkpoint and wait until it opens at 5:30 a.m. As the sky brightens, we will walk to the Sun Gate for an hour, taking in the stunning views along the way. On a clear day, you can watch the spectacular sunrise over Machu Picchu from the Sun Gate, which is truly an unforgettable sight. We will then start our one-hour descent towards Machu Picchu, arriving at the final control point at around 7:30 a.m.

Your guide will take you on a two-hour comprehensive tour of Machu Picchu. After the tour you will take the bus from Machu Picchu to Aguas Calientes for lunch and then take the panoramic Vistadome train and bus back to Cusco. The team will meet you off the train and return you safely to your hotel.

• Highest altitude: 2700m /8858ft

• Distance: 6km / 3 miles

• Duration: 2-3 hours

• Difficulty: Easy to moderate

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From$865$795
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Useful Bits

What's Included

  • Hotel pickup and drop off from Cusco.
  • All transportation during the tour.
  • Bus from Machu Picchu to Aguas Calientes.
  • Return on the panoramic Vistadome train.
  • Eureka 4-person tents for every 2 trekkers.
  • Basic sleeping mattress.
  • Meals prepared with fresh local ingredients.
  • Drinkable water and daily snacks.
  • Entry permits to the Inca Trail and Machu Picchu.
  • Professional tour guide.
  • Personal Porter to carry up to 7kg / 15lb.
  • First-aid kit, satellite phones, oxygen supply.
  • Portable toilets.
  • Complimentary luggage storage.
  • Safety briefing the day before the tour.

What's NOT Included

  • Entry to Huayna Picchu Mountain (optional).
  • Sleeping bag, air mattress and trekking poles (available to rent).
  • Last day lunch after the Machu Picchu Tour.
  • Travel Insurance.
  • Anything not mentioned in the inclusions.
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Other things to know

  • Inca trail permits are based on limited availability and can only be booked once the deposit is paid. There may be a chance that the permits are sold out between the time you pay the deposit and our team applies for the permit. In this instance we will provide you with alternative dates. It is recommended to book your tour as soon as possible to avoid missing out on the limited available daily permits.
  • We strongly recommend you arrive in Cusco at least 2 days prior to the trek commencing to help you acclimatise to the altitude. This reduces the risk of serious problems with altitude significantly.
  • You are required to purchase a Travel & Medical Insurance for this experience.
  • It is recommended to purchase a Travel & Medical Insurance to avoid any unforeseen circumstances.
  • While it is our intention to adhere to the itinerary, there is a certain amount of flexibility built into the itinerary and on occasion it may be necessary, or desirable to make alterations. 

Discounts

Children Discount:

  • Below 17 years of age at the time of entering the Inca Trail and Machu Picchu.

Student Discount:

  • 25 years or less at the time of entering the Inca Trail and Machu Picchu.
  • Original ID with the Name of the University, Name and Photo of the student and a valid Expiration Date.
  • International Student Identity Card is not valid.

Cancellation Policy

  • All primary deposits are 100% non-refundable since we use this money to book your permits.
  • If you cancel the tour 7 days before departure, you will be refunded the total of your payment minus the deposit.
  • Refunds are only processed to the original form of payment used to make the booking.
  • Click Here for detailed Terms & Conditions.
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FAQs Inca Trail Hike

How many permits are available for the Inca Trail Hike?

The Peruvian government issues 500 permits per day for the Inca Trail. This total includes both trekkers and the support staff (such as guides, porters, and cooks). Consequently, only about 200 to 250 permits are typically available each day for hikers. Due to high demand, especially during peak season, permits tend to sell out quickly, making early booking essential.

Can I walk the Inca trail myself?

You cannot walk the Inca Trail by yourself; you must be part of an organized tour with a licensed guide. Permits are required to regulate the number of hikers and minimize environmental impact, preserving the trail and archaeological sites. Additionally, permits ensure safety and provide employment opportunities for local guides and porters. The strict permit system helps maintain the trail’s integrity and enhances the overall experience for all visitors.

How early should I book for the Inca Trail?

To secure a spot on the Inca Trail, it is recommended to book your permit at least 6 months in advance, especially if you plan to hike during the peak season from May to September. During these months, permits often sell out quickly, sometimes within days of becoming available. For less busy periods, booking 3 to 4 months ahead is generally sufficient. 

When is the best time to hike Inca Trail?

The best time to hike the Inca Trail is during the dry season, which runs from May to September. During these months, you can expect more stable weather with minimal rainfall, clear skies, and comfortable trekking conditions. The peak months of June, July, and August offer the best weather but also see the highest number of tourists. If you prefer fewer crowds, consider hiking in May or September when the weather is still favorable but there are slightly fewer hikers. The rainy season, from October to April, can make the trail more challenging and is generally less recommended for hiking. Note that the trail is closed every February for maintenance.

What are the other options to visit Machu Picchu?

Besides the Classic Inca Trail, there are several alternative ways to visit Machu Picchu, each offering unique experiences. These are options in a situation where the permits for the Inca trail are already sold out. 

Salkantay Trek: The Salkantay Trek is a popular alternative to the Classic Inca Trail, offering a unique and scenic route to Machu Picchu. The highest point of the trek, offering stunning views of the snow-capped Salkantay Mountain. A beautiful glacial lake with turquoise waters, often visited on the first day.

Short Inca Trail: A two-day trek that includes a portion of the classic trail and a visit to the Sun Gate.

Inca Jungle Trek: An adventurous route combining biking, hiking, and optional rafting and zip-lining.

Train Ride: The most comfortable and quickest way, taking a scenic train ride from Cusco or Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes, followed by a short bus ride to Machu Picchu.

These alternatives offer various levels of difficulty, cultural experiences, and scenic beauty, providing options for different preferences and schedules.

Do I need travel insurance?

Travel Insurance Travel insurance is compulsory in order to participate on any of our trips. When selecting a travel insurance policy please bear in mind that all clients must have medical coverage and that we require a minimum coverage of USD 200,000 for repatriation and emergency rescue. We strongly recommend that the policy also covers personal liability, cancellation, curtailment and loss of luggage and personal effects. If you have credit card insurance we require proof of purchase of the trip’s receipt of credit card statements with a credit card in your name. Contact your bank for details of their participating insurer, the level of coverage and emergency contact telephone number.

How hard is it to complete the Inca Trail?

The Inca Trail is considered a moderate to challenging trek, requiring a good level of physical fitness and preparation. Factors contributing to its difficulty include:

  1. Altitude: The trail reaches elevations of up to 13,828 feet (4,215 meters) at Dead Woman’s Pass, which can cause altitude sickness for some hikers.
  2. Terrain: The trail includes steep ascents and descents, uneven stone steps, and narrow paths.
  3. Length: Covering 26 miles (42 kilometers) over four days, the trek requires sustained physical effort.
  4. Weather: Conditions can vary, with chilly mornings and evenings, and potential rain during certain seasons.

Proper acclimatization, fitness training, and preparation can help make the trek more manageable and enjoyable.

How can I prepare physically for the Inca trail trek?

Here are some key steps to help you get ready:

  1. Cardiovascular Fitness: Engage in regular aerobic exercises like running, cycling, or swimming to build stamina.
  2. Hiking Practice: Do long hikes with a loaded backpack to simulate trail conditions. Include hikes with elevation gain if possible.
  3. Altitude Acclimatization: If possible, spend time at higher altitudes before your trek to help your body adjust to reduced oxygen levels.

How can I avoid altitude sickness?

Avoiding altitude sickness on the Inca Trail involves several strategies to help your body acclimate to the reduced oxygen levels at higher elevations:

Pre-Trek Preparation

  1. Gradual Acclimatization: Spend a few days at intermediate altitudes (e.g., Cusco, which is about 11,000 feet/3,400 meters) before starting the trek to allow your body to adjust.

  2. Hydrate: Drink plenty of water in the days leading up to the trek to stay well-hydrated.

During the Trek

  1. Ascend Slowly: Gradual ascent helps your body acclimate better. Avoid rapid elevation gain.

  2. Stay Hydrated: Continue drinking water regularly throughout the trek.

  3. Eat Lightly: Consume high-carbohydrate meals that are easy to digest.

  4. Rest Well: Allow time for rest and recovery, particularly at higher elevations.

  5. Avoid Alcohol and Caffeine: These can dehydrate you and exacerbate altitude sickness.

Medication and Health

  1. Consider Medication: Consult a doctor about medications like acetazolamide (Diamox) that can help prevent altitude sickness.

  2. Know the Symptoms: Be aware of symptoms such as headaches, nausea, dizziness, and shortness of breath. If symptoms become severe, descend to a lower altitude immediately.

Guided Approach

  1. Follow Your Guide’s Advice: Experienced guides are trained to help manage altitude sickness and will adjust the itinerary if needed.

Taking these precautions can significantly reduce the risk of altitude sickness and help ensure a more comfortable and enjoyable trek.

Where will I sleep during the Inca Trail?

During the Inca Trail, we will provide tents that our porters will set up each night at authorized campsites. These campsites are situated at specific points along the route:

  • Huayllabamba, at 2,750 meters above sea level, serves as our initial resting point.
  • Pacaymayo, at 3,500 meters above sea level, becomes the second camp after a challenging day.
  • Wiñayhuayna or Phuyupatamarca, marks the last campsite before Machu Picchu, positioned around 2,600 meters above sea level.

The spaces at these campsites are limited. If availability runs out at these locations, we have other campsite options such as:

  • Ayapata – Chaquiccocha – Wiñayhuayna,
  • Chamana – Tarayoc – Llulluchapampa, and Phuyupatamarca.

What type of food is provided on the Inca Trail?

During the walk, they are accompanied by a chef to prepare the food. These meals include pasta, rice, chicken, fresh fruits, and vegetables. For breakfast, there’s a variety of options like oatmeal, eggs, and bread, all carefully balanced and nutritious to provide ample energy for the hike. Special dietary needs like vegetarian, vegan, or gluten-free can be accommodated if requested in advance during your reservation.

Will I need any vaccinations?

For hiking the Inca Trail, there are no specific vaccinations required solely for the trek. However, it’s a good idea to be up-to-date on routine vaccinations and consider some additional health precautions based on the region. It’s best to check with your local health authority.

Why book with Kynd Erth

  • Support LocalWe have partered with locally owned businesses for this experience, helping grow local communities and their economy.
  • Fair LabourThis experience includes fair wages to the staff supporting a healthy work culture where they are treated kindly and fairly.
  • Reduce WasteWe avoid using single-use items on this experience wherever possible. We also encourage bringing reusable water bottles, bags, and containers.
  • Local CultureYou will learn about local cultures and customs on this experience, and engage and interact with local communities where possible.
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