4 day Inca Trail
Inca Trail 4 Days / 3 Nights to Machu picchu
The 4-day Inca Trail Trek 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.
Max altitude
4250 m / 13 943 feet
Trip Length
4 days
Languages
English / Spanish
Physical Level
Challenging
Cancellation
Cannot be cancelled
Inclusions
Included
- Pre-departure briefing to be held the night before your hike at 5:00 pm
- Pick up from your hotel in the morning and transfer in private transport to km 82 (starting point of the trail)
- Entrance tickets for the Inca Trail and Machu Picchu.
- Camping tents, (large and comfortable).
- One foam mattress per person.
- Meals as indicated in the itinerary (optional: vegetarian or other dietary needs on request).
- Professional English-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 private transport to Cusco.
- Expedition train from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo and private transport to Cusco.
- Private toilet tent with toilet seat, exclusive to your group.
- An hour and a half-guided tour of Machu Picchu.
- Bus tickets from Machu Picchu to Aguas Calientes.
- Dining tent, kitchen, camping tent, tables and chairs.
- Cook and kitchen equipment.
- 24-hour guest service: please ask for the emergency number available during your time of visit
- Taxes.
Not included
- Huayna Picchu Mountain (entrance tickets to this site cost $75 USD per person).
- First breakfast and the last lunch. We will stop in Ollantaytambo for the first breakfast and have the last lunch in Aguas Calientes after Machu Picchu tour.
- Vistadome train service upgrade for the return trip to Cusco. ($68 USD per person).
- Tips. Please note that our staff is well compensated, so tipping is entirely at your discretion.
Inca Trail 4 days 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 – Chaqui
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: Chaquicocha – 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 – 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 to bring for Inca Trail 2 day hike
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
How to book the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu 4 days
Check availability for the date you wish to go on the Inca Trail: offered by the Peruvian government or consult with our team here.
Once your departure date availability has been confirmed, make your reservation by depositing US$200 per person by clicking the “Book Now!” button.
Important information
- Only 500 people per day are allowed to start this trek (including guides and porters), so we recommend that you make your reservation at least 7 months in advance. If the Inca Trail is already booked for your chosen dates, we offer alternative treks – check them out!
- It is imperative that for entry into The Inca Trail that you have your original passport with you.
- If you have received a Student Discount, you must also have your original Student Card.
- If you have renewed or changed your passport (or name) after your original reservation with us, it is imperative that you send us your new passport number/name and bring a copy of your old passport (or even better, the original) as well as the original new passport to be sure they will admit you onto The Inca Trail.
- You are responsable for carrying your own personal belongings, including your sleeping bag and mat. (If you prefer, it is optional that you may hire a porter to carry these ítems for US$110)
- To obtain a student discount, your student card must be current with your photo, issue date, expiration date, and have a security bar/magnetic strip. Please send us a photo of the card and have this card with you when you enter the Inca Trail.
- If you want to climb Huayna Picchu Mountain or Machu Picchu Mountain, we’ll need plenty of notice as this is extremely popular and permits are very limited. You should request the reservation at the same time as your reservation of the Inca Trail.
To climb Huayna Picchu Mountain
You must request this permit at the same time as your reservation for the Inca Trail. Huayna Picchu is the mountain within the Citadel of Machu Picchu – the one in all the classic photos. It is quite popular and it is also extraordinary to be able to climb it, requiring moderate physical effort, though it is very steep. From the top you will have an incredible view. It takes about 2 hours roundtrip. Permits are limited and sell out quickly.
- Additional cost:
- $ 68.00 USD Adult
- $ 43.00 USD Student
To climb Machu Picchu Mountain
From the top you have an extraordinary view of the surrounding area. This climb is quite challenging and takes 4 hours roundtrip. Permits are limited.
- Additional cost:
- $ 68.00 USD Adult
- $ 43.00 USD Student
Inca Trail Entry Requirements:
- To enter the Inca Trail, you must obtain a permit from the Ministry of Culture of Peru. This is acquired through a travel agency that has authorization. Eco Tour Cusco EIRL, is an authorized agency for the operation of the Inca Trail.
- The number of people who can enter the Inca Trail is limited to 500 people per day (including guides and porters). To ensure your entry it is necessary that you make your reservation in advance. (up to 1 year in advance).
- To obtain the student discount, your student card must be current and have: your photo, date of issuance and expiration date, and have a security bar/magnetic strip.
- It is forbidden to uproot plants, build fires, or to bring alcohol or other drugs on the trek.
Inca Trail 4 days Reviews
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