On this four-day Inca Trail trek to Machu Picchu, we will journey through ancient Inca sites and stunning landscapes. We will begin by exploring the historic trail, following paths used by the Inca centuries ago. Along the way, we will witness breathtaking vistas of the Andes and the lush Urubamba River below.
As we hike the Inca Trail, we will encounter iconic sites like Patallacta and Runkurakay, each offering unique perspectives on Inca history. Sayacmarca and Phuyupatamarca, with their timeless stone structures, will connect us with the architectural genius of the Inca civilization. These stops will enhance our understanding of the incredible culture that thrived here.
Our trek will reach the highest point, where we will pause to marvel at the rugged Andes before descending toward Wiñay Wayna. This impressive Inca site, known for its terraces, will provide a glimpse into the ancient agricultural techniques used by the Inca. Here, we will rest, recharge, and prepare for the last stretch.
On the final day, we will approach Machu Picchu through the legendary Sun Gate, unveiling an awe-inspiring view of Machu Picchu bathed in morning light. This unforgettable moment will offer an unparalleled reward for the challenging yet thrilling journey. Our Inca Trail adventure will conclude with a guided exploration of Machu Picchu, the crowning jewel of Inca heritage.
We will start the day with a 4:30 am pickup from your hotel in Cusco. After a 2.5-hour drive, we will arrive at KM 82 (2,900 meters / 9,514 feet), where we will have breakfast. We will begin the trail with views of the Sacred Valley and the stunning Vilcanota mountain range.
Our first five hours of hiking will be gentle and relatively easy. Along the way, we will explore two Inca archaeological sites, guided by our knowledgeable team.
We will reach our lunch spot around 1:00 pm, where our chef will serve a refreshing meal. After lunch, we will continue with a two-hour climb to our first campsite, Ayapata (3,300 meters / 10,826 feet). Here, everything will be set up for a comfortable evening, including snacks and dinner, followed by a restful night.
We will wake up at 4:30 am with coca tea and enjoy a hearty breakfast. This challenging day begins at 6:00 am, hiking up original Inca steps for four hours. We will reach Dead Woman’s Pass (4,215 meters / 13,828 feet), the highest point of our trek, where we will take a break and enjoy breathtaking views.
We will then descend for two hours to Pacaymayo (3,600 meters / 11,811 feet) for lunch. After a break, we will continue for 45 minutes to the Runquraqay archaeological site. We will then ascend to the second pass, Runquraqay Pass (3,950 meters / 12,956 feet). We will then descend into the jungle, passing the Sayacmarca site before arriving at our Chaquicocha camp.
We will start with a 5:30 am wake-up and breakfast. Today will be easier, allowing for more exploration and shorter hiking hours. We will begin hiking at 7:00 am through a lush jungle trail with gradual ascents. After two hours, we will reach the third pass, Phuyupatamarca (3,680 meters / 12,073 feet), offering views of Machu Picchu Mountain and the Sacred Valley.
After exploring this site, we will descend for three hours to the archaeological site of Intipata. We will arrive at Wiñay Wayna (2,600 meters / 8,530 feet) around 2:00 pm. After lunch, we will tour this impressive site and then enjoy a relaxing evening at camp.
We will wake up early at 3:00 am and leave camp by 3:30 am to reach the checkpoint, which opens at 5:30 am. We will hike one hour to the Sun Gate, where we will enjoy the first breathtaking view of Machu Picchu as the sun rises. After a short break for photos, we will descend for 45 minutes to the entrance of Machu Picchu.
We will have a three-hour guided tour of Machu Picchu, exploring the urban, religious, and agricultural sectors. After the tour, we will take a bus to Aguas Calientes and have time for lunch. We will then take a train back to Ollantaytambo, followed by a private bus ride back to Cusco, arriving around 7:30 pm.
All our tours are priced in US Dollars.
Private tours are available and priced according to group size.
$25 off per person
Student discounts apply to anyone who has a valid UNIVERSITY STUDENT CARD at the time of the trek or who is 17-years-old or younger. We need to see a copy of their card or passport at the time of booking to receive the discount.
Note: Inca Trail trek permits are limited every year (only 200 spots are offered daily) and there is a high demand for this trek.
Our driver will be waiting at Ollantaytambo to take you back to your hotel in Cusco.
Lighten Your Load: Travel with ease as you leave the heavy lifting to us. Our horses will carry the duffel bag 7 kilos / 14 pounds. This ensures you have the space you need without your personal day backpack burden of extra weight. But if you want to rent an extra porter you have to pay an extra $120 USD for another 7 kilos 14 pounds.
Your porter will carry up to 7 kg of your personal items. This includes your sleeping bag and air mattress (both provided by us and weighing a total of 3 kg), leaving you with 4 kg for your own belongings.
To book, click “Book Now” on our website and fill out the booking form. Choose your departure date and enter personal details for all participants. Complete the reservation with a credit or debit card.
We offer optional add-ons, like Huayna Picchu and Vistadome upgrades, which we recommend booking early as they sell out fast. After securing your permits, we will send you a confirmation manual with trip details. Please, book months in advance.
The remaining balance is payable in cash (USD or soles) two days before your trek. If preferred, pay by credit card via our We Travel account with a 5.5% fee. Credit cards are accepted at our office, but a 5.5% fee also applies. Let us know your payment method in advance.
Yes, but a date change requires purchasing a new permit and a $100 per-person penalty for train ticket adjustments. Confirm availability with us before proceeding.
Porters will leave the camp at 4:00 AM to catch the 5:30 AM train back to Ollantaytambo. Some porters will hike to Aguas Calientes with your duffle bags, which we will store securely. After Machu Picchu, you’ll collect your bags in Aguas Calientes before heading to the train station.
Groups typically reach the Sun Gate by 6:30 AM and arrive at Machu Picchu by 8:00 AM, taking about 45 minutes from the Sun Gate.
Yes! You can store luggage at our office or hotel during the trek. Bring only the essentials for the hike.
No age limit exists for the Inca Trail hike, but we recommend children be at least 8 years old due to some challenging sections.
Yes, students under 18 or those with a valid student ID receive a $40 USD discount. Students aged 18 to 25 should email their passport and student ID to info@discoverpachamama.com during booking.
The Wiñaywayna gate opens at 5:30 AM, and it takes about 1 hour and 20 minutes to reach the Sun Gate, typically around 6:50 AM. Since sunrise happens between 6:00 AM and 6:40 AM, you may miss it. Companies advertising sunrise views may not consider the timing.
Bring a reusable bottle or pouch; single-use plastic bottles are prohibited on the Inca Trail. We provide water during the trek.
If the country closes its borders, we’ll refund your full deposit. For other cancellations, a $200 fee applies, as permits are non-refundable.
Yes, we provide sleeping bags, air mattresses, and walking sticks, so you won’t need to rent gear. If you need extra equipment, Cusco has several rental shops.
Yes, if you cancel the trek, you can still use the permit for a Machu Picchu tour. Extra costs for train tickets and accommodations will apply.
Unfortunately, if you have a 4-day permit, you must enter through the designated checkpoint on Day 1. Joining at the 2-day checkpoint isn’t allowed, though new entrance permits may be available on request.
Porters can carry a maximum of 20 kilos, as per government regulations. These limits ensure their safety and well-being.
There’s no strict limit, but we recommend a 25-liter backpack for comfort. Bringing only essential items will enhance your trekking experience.
Return tickets from Aguas Calientes are for 2:55 PM or 3:20 PM. This timing allows arrival in Cusco by 7:30 PM for rest or further exploration.
Arrive in Cusco at least two days before your trek to acclimatize. Take a walking tour, eat lightly, and stay hydrated for the best experience.
No, campsites lack electricity. Bring a power bank to charge any essential devices.
Our mummy-style sleeping bags are rated for temperatures as low as -15°C (5°F), ensuring warmth and comfort.
We include Circuit 1 – Ruta Terraza Superior and Circuit 3 – Ruta Realeza Diseñada. After the Sun Gate, you’ll visit terraces and temples.
Inca Trail permits include circuits 1 and 3. For $45, you can reenter Machu Picchu at 11 AM for Circuit 2.
We wake up early so porters can catch the 5:45 AM train. You’ll hike five minutes to the checkpoint, which opens at 5:30 AM.
Walking sticks reduce knee impact and are beneficial on steep sections. Beginners may find them helpful for balance.
We will do our best to keep your group together. However, hikers follow Circuit 3, and train visitors follow Circuit 2. Extra tickets may help.
Wayllabamba offers hot and cold showers, with hot showers available for 10 soles and cold for 5 soles. Pacaymayo has cold public showers, and Wiñaywayna has relatively warmer cold showers due to lower altitude.
Discover Pachamama provides portable toilets at campsites. On the first day, local residents offer private toilets for a 1 sol fee. Public toilets are available every two hours of hiking afterward.
Daytime temperatures range from 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F), with strong sun exposure. At night, temperatures drop to 0°C to 5°C (32°F to 41°F). Rainy season brings slightly warmer temperatures and increased humidity.
Refunds aren’t possible if you return early, as all expenses are prepaid. We’ll assist in arranging alternative travel if needed.
Our guides can help arrange alternative travel to Machu Picchu or assist with your safe return. They’re trained to handle altitude sickness and minor health issues.
Additional return costs are the responsibility of the traveler. We’ll assist with necessary arrangements, but fees apply for emergency transportation.
Tipping shows appreciation for the hard work and dedication of porters, chefs, and guides. It supports their livelihoods and adds to the trekking experience.
Yes, tipping is customary to thank our team for their hard work. Though optional, it is highly appreciated.
Tipping expresses gratitude for their exceptional service. It’s a personal gesture, acknowledging their dedication to your memorable experience.
