Inca Trail 4 Days To Machu Picchu

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Inca Trail 4 Days / 3 Nights to Machu picchu

Inca Trail hike Overview

The Inca Trail to Machu Picchu 4 days is a breathtaking adventure that leads you through diverse Andean landscapes and ancient Inca ruins to the iconic Machu Picchu. Starting from Cusco, the trek begins with a transfer to the trailhead at km. 82, where you’ll embark on a scenic hike along the Urubamba River, gradually ascending through lush valleys and cloud forests. The journey includes crossing two high passes, with the highest point at the infamous Dead Woman’s Pass, offering stunning views and challenging climbs. Along the way, you’ll visit impressive archaeological sites such as Runkurakay and Sayacmarca, and camp in picturesque locations like Wayllabamba and Pacaymayo.

On the final day, you’ll trek through the forest to Inti Punku or Sun Gate, where you’ll first glimpse the majestic Machu Picchu. After descending into the citadel, you’ll enjoy a guided tour of its remarkable temples and terraces. The adventure concludes with a return trip from Aguas Calientes to Cusco, offering a perfect blend of physical challenge, cultural exploration, and unforgettable scenery.

4 day Inca Trail itinerary

Day 1 Cusco to Km 82 – Piskacuchu – Wayllabamba

Early Morning Departure: We pick you up from your hotel in Cusco. From there, we will head to the trailhead at km. 82 (Piskacuchu). The drive takes approximately 2-3 hours through the Sacred Valley. Before arriving at the trail the starting point we will stop at the famous village of Ollantaytambo to have breakfast. This meal is not included in the package.
Beginning the Trek: We arrive at the starting point of our hike. It’s important to have everything prepared at this stage. After arriving at km. 82, you’ll go through the entry checkpoint. Present your entry tickets, passport, and student card (if applicable) at the checkpoint.
Start of the Inca Trail: The trek starts with a gentle ascent alongside the Urubamba River. Begin your trek with your group, enjoying spectacular Andean landscapes, including views of the snow-capped mountain Veronica (W’akay Willca) (5,850 m / 19,192 ft). The first day is relatively easy, offering excellent views of impressive archaeological sites such as Willca Raccay and the impressive Llactapata.
Lunch and Campsite: Continue trekking along the valley gradually climbing for about five hours until we reach Wayllabamba to have lunch by a small river (3,000 m / 9,842 ft). Then we continue to the first campsite at Ayapata (3,300 m / 10,827 ft), arriving about an hour and a half after lunch. Prepare for cooler night temperatures around 5°C (41°F).
Total distance: 12 km (7,47 miles)
Estimated hiking time: 5-6 hours
Difficulty: Low.
Maximum altitude point: 3,000 m (9,840 ft)
Campsite altitude: 3,000 m (9,840 ft)
Meals included: Lunch and dinner.

Day 2 Ayapata – Warmi Wañuska – Pacaymayu

Early Morning: This day we wake up early between 5:00 – 5:30 a.m. Then start the day with a hearty breakfast, as this day involves a challenging ascent. The hike begins with a steep climb towards the infamous Dead Woman’s Pass or Warmi Wañuska (4,200 m / 13,780 ft). This is the highest point of the trek, offering a profound sense of achievement upon reaching the summit. Take a well-deserved break here, soaking in the extraordinary panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
Lunch: Descend to Pacaymayu, our lunch spot, situated at 3,550 meters (11,646 feet). Enjoy a hearty meal and take some time to rest and recharge.
Afternoon trek: Continue your journey to the second pass at Runkurakay, located at 4,000 meters (13,123 feet). Along the way, marvel at the diverse birdlife, including various species of hummingbirds. Enjoy stunning views of the Vilcabamba mountain range and explore the lush cloud forest, home to unique native plants such as the Q’euña trees.
Arrival at Pacaymayo: Arrive at your campsite by 5:30 pm. Temperatures at this camp typically drop to around 4°C (39°F) at night. Rest and prepare for the following day.
Total distance: 11 km (6,84 miles)
Difficulty: High.
Estimated hiking time: 6-7 hours
Maximum altitude point: 4,200 m (13,776 ft)
Campsite altitude: 3,500 m (11,480 ft)
Meals included: Breakfast, lunch and dinner.

Day 3 Pacaymayu – Phuyupatamarca – Wiñayhuayna

Morning: Today will be a quieter day, with an extraordinary display of nature awaiting us. We begin with a cup of tea in the tent, followed by breakfast at 6:00 am. We then gently ascend to the archaeological site of Phuyupatamarca, wich means «City above the Clouds» (3,680 m / 12,073 ft). The views from this third highest point on the trail are breathtaking.
Descent: After visiting Phuyupatamarca, we descend over 3,000 steps through the cloud forest to the amazing archaeological site of Intipata. We continue our trek until we reach our third camp, Wiñayhuayna (2,680 m / 8,792 ft).
Exploring Wiñayhuayna: Our campsite is just a few steps from the renowned archaeological site of Wiñayhuayna ( which “Forever Young” in Quechua language). Even if you’re feeling tired, we highly recommend exploring this enchanting site.
Arrival at Camp: We arrive at the camp around lunchtime, having walked for 4 to 5 hours. Overnight temperatures are milder, around 12°C (54°F).
Total distance: 16 km (9,94 miles)
Difficulty: Moderate.
Estimated hiking time: 8 hours
Maximum altitude point: 3,900 m (12,792 ft)
Campsite altitude: 2,650 m (8,692 ft)
Meals included: Breakfast, lunch and dinner.

Day 4 Wiñayhuayna – Sun Gate - Machu Picchu – Cusco

Early Morning Departure: This is the final day of our Inca Trail adventure. We wake up early around 4:00 am to have breakfast and start our trek towards Machu Picchu. Our goal is to reach Inti Punku or Sun Gate by 6:00 am, just in time to witness the first rays of light hitting the ancient citadel.
Sun Gate Arrival: As we reach Inti Punku (2,720 m / 8,923 ft), a breathtaking view of the majestic citidel of Machu Picchu unfolds before us. The sight of this ancient city bathed in the soft morning light is an unforgettable moment, offering incredible photo opportunities.
Descent to Machu Picchu: We then begin our descent towards the Machu Picchu Citadel (2,400 m / 7,872 ft), passing by the “House of the Guardians.” From this vantage point, you can capture some of the most iconic photographs of Machu Picchu.
Guided Tour of Machu Picchu: Upon entering the citadel, we will check in and store our belongings before embarking on a guided tour. Our professional guide will lead us through the main streets, plazas, and staircases of this spiritual and religious center of the Andean world. You’ll learn about the history, significance, and architectural marvels of this UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Free Exploration: After the guided tour, you’ll have free time to explore Machu Picchu on your own. For those seeking additional adventure, optional activities include:
- Climb Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain: Enjoy stunning views of Machu Picchu from above. Please note, reservations must be made in advance with your Inca Trail booking, and an additional fee applies.
- Visit Aguas Calientes: You can also explore the town of Aguas Calientes, where you can visit the local museum or relax in the thermal baths (activities not included).
Return to Cusco: After your time at Machu Picchu, we take a bus down to Aguas Calientes, where you’ll have time for lunch (not included). In the afternoon, we board the Expedition or Voyager train at 3 p.m. for our return journey to Ollantaytambo. From there, our private transport will take you back to your hotel in Cusco, marking the end of an unforgettable journey on the Inca Trail.
Total distance: 4 km (2,49 miles)
Difficulty: Moderate.
Estimated hiking time: 2 hours
Maximum altitude point: 2,700 m (8,829 ft)
Meals included: Breakfast.

What is included?

Pre-departure briefing to be held the night before your hike at 6:00pm
Pick up from your hotel in the morning and transfer to Km 82 (starting point of the trail)
Entrance tickets for the Inca Trail and MachuPicchu.
Camping tents. (spacious and comfortable)
One foam mat per person
Dining tent, kitchen, camping tent, tables and chairs.
Cook and Kitchen equipment
Meals as indicated in the itinerary (optional: vegetarian or other dietary needs request)
Professional English/Spanish- speaking official tour guide.
Boiled water to refill your bottles
First aid kit including emergency oxygen tank
Porters for carry camping tents, food and cooking equipment.
Hot water every morning for washing purposes.
Expedition train from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo and transport by bus to Cusco.
An hour and a half-guided tour of Machu Picchu.
Bus tickets from Machu Picchu Citadel to Aguas Calientes (small town of Machu Picchu, where you will have time to take your last lunch and there you will be take the train)
24-hour guest service: Please ask for the emergency number available during your time of visit.

What is not included?

Sleeping bag- recommend down bags for -10C at lea (rent in Cusco cost 30 us$)
Walking Sticks. (the rent cost 20 us$ a pair)
Single tent US$35 upon your request (optional)
Breakfast on day 01 and lunch on day 4th.
Entrance ticket to Hayanapicchu 75 us $
Snacks for the hike as dried fruits, energy bars snickers
Travel Insurance. We recommend you Nomade Insurance or others.

Additional Thing to upgrade

Climbing Huayna Picchu Moutain: $65
Climbing Machu Picchu Mountain: $65
Vistadome Train: – One way Vistadome Ticket is 60 USD, – Round trip Vistadome ticket is 80 USD

4-day inca Trail hike Packing list

It is required to carry

Original passport (the same one that you used to book your trek).
Valid university ID (if you booked as a student).
Good backpack (30L or 35L).
Water bottle: 2-3 L (Camelbaks recommended).
Comfortable hiking shoes with ankle support.
Sleeping bag (can be rented at ECO TOUR CUSCO).
Toilet paper.

What to take in your duffle bag

We are straight tour operators, we provide you with a duffle bag at the briefing to Camino Inca you will be given more information about an additional porter, who will carry up to 7 kg. or 14 lbs, including your 2.5 kg sleeping bag, mattress and additional clothing.

3 T-shirts.
2 hiking trousers.
4 pieces of underwear.
3 pairs of socks.
A Thermal Jacket.
A Warm clothing.
A Waterproof glove.
A comfortable shoes for the camp.
A solar battery charger if necessary.
Sleeping bag: must be at least minus 15°C. You can rent with us for $30 USD.

Toiletries

Facial moisturiser.
Hand disinfectant.
Wet wipes.
Toothbrush and toothpaste.
Personal medication
Personal first aid kit.

What to carry in the 35L backpack

We recommend you to have a small 35 L day trekking backpack, in which you can carry the following things:

Sun hat.
Sunscreen
Beanie or winter hat (wool hat).
Rainwear or rain jacket.
Snack such as chocolate bars, cereal bars or any dried fruit.
Coca leaves.
Plastic rain poncho.
Gloves
Camera

4 day Inca Trail prices

Price per person

From US$ 780– Adults
From US$ 765– Students (under 25 years of age)
From US$ 760 – Children (3-8 years old)

Student discount

20 USD

The student discount can reduce the price of your entrance ticket to Machu Picchu by approximately 20 USD depending on the type of ticket. You must be a student of higher education (university or high school) and be under 25 years of age.

Requirement for the student id

To benefit from the student discount, travelers must present a valid student ID that meets the following criteria:

Must be 25 years old or younger at the time of entry to Machu Picchu. Travelers over the age of 25 are not eligible for the student discount.
The ID must include the name of the university, as well as the name and photograph of the student.
The ID must be current and not expired.

Invalid student IDs

Student IDs will not be accepted for a discount under the following circumstances:

The traveler is over the age of 25.
The ID is expired.
The student ID does not include an expiration date.
ISIC cards are not considered valid for this discount.

Children discounts

All children under 8 years old have a 30 USD discount on this tour.

Book Inca Trail 4 days

To book your Inca Trail to Machu Picchu Trek 4 days, click the BOOK NOW button and select your departure date. Next, fill in the personal information for each participant. Finally, complete the booking by paying a $250 deposit per person.

During the booking process, you’ll also have the option to add extras such as an emergency horse, walking sticks, or sleeping bags. These can be booked alongside your deposit or arranged at our office during the briefing session one day before your departure.

Once we receive your deposit, you’ll receive a confirmation email, and your trip to Ausangate will be fully secured.

Questions?

How long is the 4-day Inca Trail?

The 4-day Inca Trail covers about 43 kilometers (26 miles) and is typically completed over four days, with the final day reaching Machu Picchu.

Is the 4-day Inca Trail suitable for beginners?

While the Inca Trail is challenging due to its high altitude and steep terrain, beginners with a reasonable level of fitness can complete it. If you’re an active person and prepared for a multi-day hike, it should be doable.

When is the best time to hike the Inca Trail?

The best time to hike the Inca Trail is during the dry season, which runs from April to October. The months of June, July, and August are the peak season, so if you prefer fewer crowds, consider visiting in the shoulder months like April, May, or September.

How hard is the 4-day Inca Trail?

The Inca Trail is considered moderate to difficult due to its steep inclines, high altitudes, and varying weather conditions. There are sections with stairs, and reaching the highest point, Dead Woman’s Pass, is a tough climb, but the views and experience make it worth the effort.

Do I need to be acclimatized to the altitude?

Yes, it’s crucial to acclimatize to the high altitude before starting the Inca Trail. Spend at least 2-3 days in Cusco or the Sacred Valley to allow your body to adjust to the altitude (Cusco sits at around 3,400 meters or 11,150 feet).

Are there bathrooms on the trail?

Basic toilets are available at campsites, but they are not well-maintained. Some operators provide portable toilets for added comfort.

How far in advance should I book the Inca Trail?

For peak season (May–September), book at least 6 months in advance. Permits are limited and sell out quickly!

$570 USD

per person