Classic Inca Trail to Machu Picchu – 4 Days / 3 Night
Highly recommended by our passengers
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Price
Per preson
740.oo
Overview
Embark on the legendary Classic Inca Trail to Machu Picchu (4 Days / 3 Nights), one of the world’s most iconic trekking routes. This unforgettable journey combines breathtaking Andean landscapes, cloud forest, high mountain passes, and ancient Inca archaeological sites that can only be reached on foot.
Over four days, you will hike the original stone paths built by the Incas, explore impressive ruins such as Llactapata, Runkurakay, Sayacmarca, Phuyupatamarca, and end your adventure with the magical arrival to Machu Picchu through the Sun Gate (Inti Punku) at sunrise.
This trek is perfect for travelers seeking adventure, culture, and a once-in-a-lifetime experience in the Andes.
Important Note
To hike the Classic Inca Trail, a government-issued Inca Trail Permit is mandatory.
Permit availability is extremely limited and sells out months in advance, especially for dates from April to September.
Without a permit, you cannot access the trail under any circumstance.
We strongly recommend booking as early as possible.
WhyNotMachuPicchu can secure your permits and Machu Picchu entrance tickets (subject to availability).
Highlights
Hike the most famous trekking route in South America
Arrive at Machu Picchu through the iconic Sun Gate (Inti Punku)
Explore multiple Inca archaeological sites accessible only via the trail
Stunning Andean scenery: high passes, cloud forest, valleys, and Inca tunnels
Professional bilingual guide (English/Spanish)
Full camping experience with porters, tents, meals, and support team
Ideal for adventurers seeking an immersive multi-day experience
Additional Info
MANDATORY: To issue the Inca Trail permit and Machu Picchu ticket, the government requires:
Full name
Passport number
Date of birth
Nationality
Permits and tickets are NOT refundable and cannot be modified.
If you need to change your travel date, you will need to purchase a new permit/ticket.
Cancellation Policy
This experience is non-refundable and cannot be changed for any reason.
If you cancel or request an amendment, the amount paid cannot be refunded.
Itinerary
Day 1: Cusco – Km 82 – Patallacta – Wayllabamba
Your adventure begins with a scenic bus journey from Cusco to Kilometer 82, the official starting point of the Classic Inca Trail.
The first day features a moderate hike through lush valleys and along the Urubamba River. Along the route, you’ll visit the impressive Patallacta ruins—an incredible archaeological complex that introduces you to the history of the trail.
You will spend your first night at the Wayllabamba campsite, surrounded by breathtaking Andean peaks.
Day 2: Wayllabamba – Dead Woman’s Pass – Pacaymayo
Day 2 is known as the most challenging of the trek, but also one of the most rewarding.
You’ll begin a steady ascent toward Warmiwañusca (Dead Woman’s Pass) at 4,215 m / 13,828 ft, the highest point on the Inca Trail.
After reaching the summit and enjoying panoramic mountain views, you’ll descend to the Pacaymayo campsite for the second night.
This is a demanding day requiring stamina, but the sense of achievement is unforgettable.
Day 3: Pacaymayo – Runkurakay – Sayacmarca – Phuyupatamarca – Wiñay Wayna
The third day brings an exciting change of scenery as the trail leads into the cloud forest.
You’ll hike at a gentler pace and visit several important Inca archaeological sites, including:
Runkurakay
Sayacmarca
Phuyupatamarca (“Town Above the Clouds”)
Mist-filled forests, stone paths, and lush vegetation create a magical atmosphere.
The night is spent at the Wiñay Wayna campsite, located near one of the most remarkable ruins on the entire trail—Wiñay Wayna, a spectacular example of Inca engineering and agriculture.
Day 4: Wiñay Wayna – Sun Gate – Machu Picchu – Cusco
Your final day begins early as you hike toward the iconic Sun Gate (Inti Punku), where you’ll enjoy your first breathtaking view of Machu Picchu at sunrise.
From there, it’s a short descent to the citadel, where you will have a guided tour exploring temples, terraces, and the most emblematic structures of this ancient wonder.
After your guided visit and some free time to explore, you’ll take the bus to Aguas Calientes and board the train back to Cusco.
This 4-Day Trek Is Perfect For You If…
You’re seeking:
A deep connection with history and nature
A challenging yet incredibly rewarding adventure
A once-in-a-lifetime arrival to Machu Picchu on foot
iIncluded
Licensed professional guide (English/Spanish)
Expert, accredited guide for the entire trek.Assistant guide
(For groups over 8 travelers.)Inca Trail Permit
Official permit issued by the Peruvian authorities for all 4 days.Entrance to Machu Picchu
Standard Circuit 1, 2, or similar, depending on availability.Transportation from Cusco to Km 82
Private or shared bus to the trailhead.Train ticket from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo/Cusco
Expedition or similar service (upgrades available).Bus from Machu Picchu to Aguas Calientes
One-way bus ticket after your guided visit.High-quality tents (2 people per tent)
Dining tent, kitchen tent
Tables, chairs
Foam sleeping mat (basic)
Porters Authorized porters to carry camping equipment and group gear. Meals along the trek
3 breakfasts
3 lunches
3 dinners
All meals prepared by professional trekking chefs.Boiled water for drinking. Provided from Day 2 onward (morning, lunch, and dinner).
Snacks each day
Energy snacks prepared for each trekking day.First-aid kit & oxygen
Guide carries emergency first-aid kit and oxygen tank.Briefing the day before the trek
Detailed orientation meeting with your guide.Vegetarian/vegan/gluten-free options
Available upon request at no extra cost.
❌Not Included
Meals not specified in the program (e.g., breakfast on Day 1, snacks, alcoholic beverages).
Drinks, snacks, and personal expenses (souvenirs, laundry, phone calls, internet).
Travel and medical evacuation insurance (highly recommended; not included).
Personal trekking gear: hiking boots, waterproof jacket, technical clothing, trekking poles (unless provided by the operator).
Sleeping bag
Tips for the guide, porters, and cooks (local custom; collective tipping is recommended).
Entrance tickets to Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain (optional hikes, reserved and paid separately).
Fees for date changes or cancellations, if applicable (according to the operator’s policy).
Optional upgrades: train upgrade (Vistadome / 360°), single-room supplement, hotel upgrades in Aguas Calientes.
Additional porter service or extra luggage transport beyond the included weight allowance.
What to Pack
porter service or extra luggage transport beyond the included weight allowance.What to Pack
Duffel Bag / carried by porters
Sleeping bag –10°C recommended / sleeping pad if not included / quick-dry trekking shirts 2–3 / convertible trekking pants 1–2 / fleece mid-layer / waterproof shell jacket / underwear + trekking socks 3–4 / warm night clothes (dry set for camp) / insulated synthetic jacket / camp sandals / microfiber towel
Daypack 20–30 L / you carry this
Rain poncho (thick & durable) / water bottle or hydration bladder 1–1.5 L minimum / sunscreen + SPF lip balm / sun hat + warm hat / light gloves / snacks (nuts, chocolate, energy bars) / passport + Inca Trail permits / power bank / headlamp with spare batteries / small personal first-aid kit (blisters, pain relief, band-aids) / toilet paper + ziplock bags for personal trash
Early Rainy Season Wear / Nov–Dec
Layering is key. Rain comes and goes quickly.
Waterproof jacket 10,000 mm minimum / lightweight waterproof over-pants / heavy-duty rain poncho covering you and your backpack / quick-dry shirts (no cotton) / extra socks 2 pairs / waterproof hiking boots already broken in / light thermal base layer for cold mornings
Pro Rain Tips
Keep essentials in dry bags or ziplocks / carry one bag for wet clothes / avoid down insulation, synthetic stays warm when damp / air-dry socks and shirts nightly at camp / trekking poles with rubber tips recommended for slippery stone steps
Often Forgotten Essentials
Dry bags / insect repellent (Wiñay Wayna area) / small cash for snacks or bathrooms / solar charger optional / earplugs for variable camp noise



