Go out of your comfort zone and explore the iconic Inca Trail hike to Machu Picchu; enjoy the natural wonders, visit the ancient Inca sites, interact with our local porters, and experience the best of Peruvian food while you meet new friends and arrive in Machu Picchu through the Sun Gate.
Hiking the Inca Trail with Pacha Peru is discovering a new hiking and camping experience where simplicity becomes the experience of a lifetime. Come and join our fun small group tours to Machu Picchu with like-minded trekkers from all worldwide, of different ages and genders. It is ideal for single travelers, partners, and even friends wishing to have life-changing and exciting adventures.
The Classic Inca Trail Hike to Machu Picchu in Peru is one of South America’s most famous treks and is constantly voted among the top 10 best hikes in the world. This fantastic four-day tour will give you both a taste of the rich cultural past and the stunning natural environment. It includes visiting the ancient Inca sites and temples and reaching the Sun Gate (Intipunku) right at the break of dawn to watch the sunrise over Machu Picchu.
Step into the past with our unforgettable Inca Trail tour, where ancient history and stunning scenery come together in a once-in-a-lifetime hike to Machu Picchu. Follow centuries-old stone paths through cloud forests, towering peaks, and sacred ruins as expert guides lead the way. This Inca Trail Hike is perfect for travelers who crave both challenge and reward, every step brings you closer to one of the most iconic wonders of the world. Adventure awaits!
Day 1: Training day – Cusco —Km 82 — Piskakucho — Huayllabamba (10 km, 6 hrs): You will be picked up from your hotel in Cusco (Those located in the historic center) and then travel by car to Kilometer 82 to start the Inca Trail hike to Machu Picchu. The first campsite is located at 3,300 meters or 10,826 feet. We sleep in comfortable tents.
Day 2: Huayllabamba – Dead Woman’s Pass – Pacaymayu (The Challenge – 12km, 10 hrs): This is the toughest and, of course, the longest day of the Inca Trek. You’ll pass through 2 mountains in 10 hours of hiking: Dead Woman’s Pass, which is the highest point of the Inca Trail, and Runkuraqay Pass.
Day 3: The Sacred Trail of Ruins: Pacaymayu to Wiñay Wayna (The easy day – 16km, 6hrs): It is one of the most beautiful and most relaxing days. Today, you will trek for 6 hours through various ecosystems and travel to the mysterious archaeological terraces of Phuyupatamarca, Intipata, and Wiñaywayna.
Day 4: Wiñay Wayna – Machu Picchu – Cusco (Discover Machu Picchu – 6km, 2 hrs): Get up early to trek for 2 hours to Machu Picchu through the Sun Gate (Circuit 1) and get your first glimpse of Machu Picchu (Circuit 3). After visiting Machu Picchu, you will take the train and bus back to Cusco. Arrive at your hotel around 7:30 p.m.
! Campsite locations might change depending on availability and the final campsite assignment.
! Book your tour today! These once-in-a-lifetime experiences have limited spaces available and, once these are sold out, we cannot accommodate any more visitors.
The Inca Trail is part of the Qhapaq Ñan network and is located within the Historic Sanctuary of Machu Picchu (SHM), a Protected Natural Area managed by SERNARP (the National Service of Natural Areas Protected by the State). This means that you’re trekking through a site of exceptional cultural, archaeological, and ecological value, one that must be preserved and respected.
At Pacha Peru, we are committed to responsible tourism, strictly following the guidelines for conservation in this area. Throughout the journey, we’ll guide you through the paths, the stories, nature, and the significance of this unique place, so it can be protected for future generations.
Highlight of the day: Explore archaelogical sites and take in the stunning Andean landscapes.
Your epic four day Inca Trail hike to Machu Picchu begins with an early morning transfer from your hotel in Cusco. We will be driving you to Ollantaytambo in the Sacred Valley of the Incas. This is the last major town before the trail head in Km 82 so you can buy some last minute things you may need during the hike.
We will be driving you to Piscacuho or Km 82. The place is named after its distance while traveling from Cusco to Machu Picchu. Once at the trailhead, the local authorities will be verifying your passport against the Inca Trail permit. We will begin with a gradual uphill hike to Miskay. Along the way we will be immersed in the captivating views of the trail. We will also be visiting a number of small and lesser known Inca sites.
Once in Miskay, we will be serving the first lunch of the Inca Trail. Our local chef will prepare a traditional Andean meal.
After lunch, we will continue hiking for two hours to Huayllabamba, witnessing more sights and archaeological complexes. Huayllabamba is at 3000 meters (9842 feet) above sea level. We will be camping here for the night. We will be reaching Huayllabamba by 0500 PM. Our crew will welcome you with some appetizers and a cup of freshly brewed Peruvian coffee or tea. After witnessing the sunset, we will be serving dinner before you settle in your respective tents.
First day:
Highlight of the day: Reaching the trek´s highest point at Dead Woman´s Pass and appreciating the views around you.
The second day of the Classic Inca Trail begins quite early in the morning. You will be waking up to a cup of freshly brewed Peruvian coffee or tea followed by a protein rich breakfast to keep you energized for the day. We will begin with a five hours uphill hike to the highest point of the Inca Trail, the Dead Woman’s Pass at 4600 meters above sea level (15091 feet). The pass is named after the way it looks. The hill here vaguely has a formation of a woman resting in the Andes. We will have plenty of time here to soak in the views and immerse in the energy of the Andes.
Our tour guide will be giving you an insight into the Andean mythology and traditions. After contemplating the views, we will begin with a gradual downhill hike for two hours to Pacamayu. It is at 3600 meters/ 11811 feet above sea level. Our crew will serve lunch here. After lunch, you will have time for a siesta as this will be our campsite for the night as well. We will be serving tea/coffee in the evening followed by dinner.
Second Day:
Highlight of the day: Transporting back in time at Wiñay Wayna and celebrating with your trekkinhg team.
The third day of the Classic Inca Trail begins at 0600 AM. After relishing an Andean breakfast, we will be leaving the campsite at 0700 AM. We will be visiting three iconic archaeological sites on our way. We will begin with an hour’s hike up the hill to Runkuraqay. It is an Inca complex at 3800 meters (12467 ft). This complex played a major role during the Inca civilization. Our local expert will be giving you an immersive tour here. Once you have got an insight to this, we will be hiking further up to Runkurakay Pass. It is at 3760 meters (12,335 ft. above sea level). We will have a brief stop here to contemplate the view of the valley below and catch up with the breath. We will then begin with a gradual descent for 45 minutes to Sayacmarca archaeological site. It sits at 3850 meters (12631 ft) above sea level. After the tour of the complex, we will continue our hike down to Chakicocha (3600m/11811ft) through cloud forest. We will be stopping here for lunch. After lunch, we will hike to Phuyupatamarca. This is the last section of the original Inca Trail. We will also be visiting some of the last Inca ruins that we will be crossing along the way. Our last section of the trail for the day will be to Wiñay Wayna (2600m/8530ft). This will be our campsite for the night. In Quechua, Wiñay Wayna means forever young. The archaeological site is arguably the most beautiful one along the trail. We will have an immersive tour here. After witnessing the sunset, we will be returning to the campsite for dinner.
Third day:
Highlight of the day: Exploring the legendary Machu Picchu and learning all its secrets.
We will be waking up at 03:00 AM. After breakfast, we will be parting ways with our support staff. You can express your gratitude and tip them at this point, if desired. We will begin with an hour’s hike to the emblematic Sun Gate or Inti Punku. This will be the most rewarding moment of your Inca Trail trek to Machu Picchu. You will witness the glorious rays of the rising sun beaming on the walls of the citadel as the blanket of cloud would unveil this Inca masterpiece. After contemplating the view, we will hike down to a checkpoint and continue further to Machu Picchu citadel. We will begin the tour with a brief introduction to Inca civilization. We will be visiting the main areas of the citadel like the main plaza, farming terraces and more. After the tour, if you have booked to climb Machu Picchu or Huayna Picchu mountain, our tour guide will be directing you to the respective entrance. Once you have enjoyed Machu Picchu, we will be taking the bus back down to Aguas Calientes. You will have some free time here so you can have lunch or explore the town. You can also visit the hot springs for a perfect treat to your muscles after a long trek. At 0600 PM, we will be boarding the train back to Ollantaytambo. Our representative will meet you on arrival and will transfer you back to your hotel in Cusco. We will be reaching by 10:00 PM.
Fourth Day:
Most people automatically assume that the weather is hot in South America, but because of the higher altitude in the Andes, the temperature can feel quite cold, especially at night. We recommend the use of a duffel bag or backpack, whichever is easiest for you to carry. A good size daypack is also essential.
List of things you must bring:
“The Classic Inca Trail” can leave any day of the week, from March through January. We don’t operate this itinerary in February because of the rainy season & maintenance of the route.
2025 Land Cost
Group Price: US$ 790.00 per person
Required Pre-payment: US$ 400.00 per person
Balance (Cusco): US$ 390.00 (Commonly paid in Cusco after the briefing).
This small-group journey is guaranteed to operate with just two guests.
Notice that PayPal, credit cards charge a 6% fee for the use of their secure payment gateway. This tax is just for online and card payments. You can also pay the remaining balance in cash (the briefing day) without charges.
Price Guarantee
Once your booking has been confirmed, we guarantee the Price won’t increase, whatever the circunstances. So please, before booking, ensure you’ve read all our important tour information.
Student Discount
US$20.00
Student discounts apply to anyone 17 years old or younger. To receive the discount, we require a copy or clear photo of the passport at the time of booking. It must be valid and not expire within the travel dates. Please send it to [email protected]
The Classic Inca Trail hike to Machu Picchu is one of the most breathtaking adventures in the world. Built by the Incas in the 15th century, it is part of a big ancient Inca path system called Qhapac Ñam. This extensive network of trails helped to connect the Inca empire, which included Colombia, Ecuador, Peru, Bolivia, Chile, and Argentina.
Cusco was the capital of Great Inca Empire and, therefore, the most important city in the empire. The Inca trails that formed the Qapac Ñam led from Cusco to the provinces and covered more than 40,000 kilometers throughout South America.
The Classic Inca Trail to Machu Picchu has 42-kilometer (26-mile) extension and is part of Qapac Ñam.
The Inca Trail elevation gain is around 3,000 feet (914 meters) from start to finish. The highest point on the trail is 13,828 feet (4,215 meters) at Dead Woman’s Pass. Most of the elevation gain is in the first few days, with around 1,000 feet (305 meters) of ascent on Day 1 and 800 feet (244 meters) on Day 2. After that, the trial levels out somewhat, although there are still some ups and downs.
The Dead Woman’s Pass is a high mountain on the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu. It is located at 4,215 meters (13,829 feet) above sea level and is the highest point on the Inca Trail. The pass gets its name from its resemblance to a woman lying on her back. The pass is a challenging section of the Inca Trail, with steep ascents and descents.
The Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, which is well-known around the world, begins at Kilometer 82 – Piscacucho Village, located in Ollantaytambo district, Urubamba Province, in the Sacred Valley of Cusco, Peru.
The Incas built the Iconic Classic Machu Picchu Inca Trail in the 15th century. It is thought that the same people who built Machu Picchu also built the Inca Trail. The trail was used for trading between Cusco and the area around the Amazon region.
After the Spanish conquest, this trail was lost for many years with Machu Picchu, and it was re-discovered in 1911 by an American, Hiram Bingham III, during his expeditions to Peru, searching for the Lost City of the Incas. Today, the Inca Trail and Machu Picchu are some of Peru’s most famous tourist destinations.
The weather on the Inca Trail is unpredictable and variable. We have 2 seasons. However, you need to be prepared for all seasons when hiking to Machu Picchu.
The temperature during the Machu Picchu Trek varies significantly depending on the altitude and season; temperatures can reach as high as 80°F (27°C) during the day and drop below freezing at night, so hikers must come prepared for hot and cold weather conditions.
Hiking the Machu Picchu Inca Trail can be challenging due to its length and high altitudes; however, its rewards make the experience worthwhile. Its breathtaking scenery will impress anyone while feeling great satisfaction from having accomplished something big!
To participate in the Classic Machu Picchu Trek, you will need to secure the permits long in advance. Every day, there are only 500 permits available, including porters, chefs, tour guides, and travelers.
The Inca Trail trek stretches for about 26 miles (42 kilometers) from the Sacred Valley (Km 82), through the Andes Mountains, to the lost city of Machu Picchu.
The Inca Trail is one of the most popular trekking routes in the world, but if it is sold out, you might consider alternative treks to Machu Picchu. Below, you will find a fair comparison of the most popular tours.
Inca Trail vs. Salkantay Trek
There are two main options for trekking to Machu Picchu: the Inca Trail and the Salkantay Trek. Both tours offer stunning scenery and an unforgettable experience, but they have some key differences.
The Inca Trail hike is the classic choice for a Machu Picchu trek. It’s the most popular option—it’s an incredible journey through some of the most stunning scenery and through history. The Classic Machu Picchu Trek follows the ancient path of the Incas and ends with a spectacular entrance into Machu Picchu through the Sun Gate.
The Salkantay Trek is an excellent alternative to the Inca Trail. It’s less crowded, more affordable, and still takes you through beautiful scenery. The highlight of the Salkantay Trek is Mount Salkantay, which, at 6,271 meters (20,549 feet), is one of the tallest mountains in Peru. The views from the summit are breathtaking! Another plus of the Salkantay Trek is that it ends with a visit to Aguas Calientes, where you can relax in the hotel before going to Machu Picchu.
Inca Trail vs. Lares Trek
Another great alternative Trek to Machu Picchu is the Lares Route, which is famous for being more cultural and less intense than the Salkantay and Inca Trails.
The Inca Trail takes you on a 4-day hike directly to the great citadel of Machu Picchu. You will be hiking through the mountains, spending the night in isolated campsites, and arriving at Machu Picchu through the Sun gate; this is the only trek that actually allows you to arrive hiking to Machu Picchu.
The Lares Trek is a shorter, 4-day option that starts in the village of Lares and ends at Machu Picchu. While it doesn’t have as many Inca ruins along the route, it’s a great choice if you want to avoid crowds and learn from the locals. To arrive at Machu Picchu, you need to travel by train and stay 1 night in a hotel in Aguas Calientes.
Classic Inca Trail vs. Short Inca Trail hike
The original Classic Inca Trail 4 days is a long and challenging hike, but there is also a shorter version known as the Short Inca Trail. So, which one should you choose?
The Classic Machu Picchu Inca Trail is a 26-mile (42-kilometer) hike that takes four days to complete. It starts at Km 82 in the Sacred Valley; and ends at Machu Picchu. Along the way, trekkers will pass through beautiful scenery, including alpine forests, mountain valleys, and lush jungles. The trail also crosses several high-altitude passes, reaching a maximum elevation of 13,829 feet (4,215 meters).
The Short Inca Trail hike to Machu Picchu is only 10 miles (16 kilometers) long and can be completed in just 1 day. It starts at Km 104 and ends at Machu Picchu. While this route doesn’t offer the same variety of scenery as the longer Inca Trail, it still passes through some stunning landscapes, including cloud forests.
Inca Trail vs. Quarry Trek
For those travelers searching for unique adventures, there is another amazing trek called the Cachicata Trek or Inca Quarry Trail to Machu Picchu. The Cachicata Trek to Machu Picchu is a new but amazing route to Machu Picchu that few people know about or hike.
The Inca Trail Trek to Machu Picchu is a once-in-a-lifetime experience, an epic trek many travelers want to complete, but few will dare. This trek is a complete experience combining adventure, camping, hiking, challenge, history, culture, and the amazing reward of arriving at Machu Picchu hiking.
The Quarry Trek is an excellent option If you’re looking for a shorter, easier trek. It’s only 20 miles long and takes you to some of the best viewpoints of the Sacred Valley. The Quarry Trek is also a great option if you want to avoid the crowds of the Inca Trail.
Inca Trail vs. Choquequirao trek
The Inca Trail and Choquequirao Hike are 2 of the most epic hikes to an ancient citadel in Peru. Both treks offer stunning views of the Andes mountains and the ancient Inca ruins, but there are some critical differences between the two.
One of the most popular events in the world is the Inca Trail Marathon. This race takes place in Peru and follows the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu. The marathon is considered one of the most difficult in the world due to the high altitude and rugged terrain. However, many runners find the challenge to be worth it for the once-in-a-lifetime experience.
The Inca Trail Marathon is held every May or June. The race starts at KM 82 of the Inca Trail, about 2,000 meters above sea level. Runners then pass through the jungle, mountains, and ancient ruins before finishing at Machu Picchu. The total race distance is approximately 42 kilometers.
If you plan to participate in the Classic Machu Picchu Trek, you’ll need to make sure you have a reservation. This trek is one of the most popular hiking trails in the world, and it cannot be easy to get a spot.
Dead Woman’s Pass is a high mountain on the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu. It is 4,215 meters (13,829 ft) above sea level and is the highest point on the Inca Trail. The pass gets its name from its resemblance to a woman lying on her back. The pass is a challenging section of the Inca Trail, with steep ascents and descents.
The short Inca Trail is an excellent option for those who want to hike the trail but are short on time. The trail is only 2 days long and is a great way to see some of the most incredible views of the Andes Mountains. The trail starts at Km 104, about 1 hour from Cusco by train from Ollantaytambo. From there, you will hike for about 4-5 hours to reach the site of Wiñay Wayna. You will enjoy a box lunch and continue the final stretch of the trail to Machu Picchu to the Sun Gate (Initupunku), from where you will have the first and most amazing view of Machu Picchu.
The Inca Trail 5-day slow version is an excellent option for those who want to enjoy the scenery and take their time on the trail. The slower pace means you’ll have more time to take photos, enjoy the views, and explore the ruins. This version of the trail is also a good option for those not as physically fit, as it is not as strenuous as the shorter versions. Book your tour early if you’re planning on hiking the Inca Trail. Tours often fill up months in advance, especially during peak season (May-September).
Sungate, or Intipunku, is the official name for the entrance to Machu Picchu from the Inca Trail. The views from the Sun Gate are breathtaking, and it’s incredible to stand at the top of Machu Picchu and take it all in.
The Inca Bridge stretches across a deep gorge, which is approximately 60 meters (200 feet) high. The Incas constructed the structure during the 15th century. It’s not entirely clear what the Inca Bridge was used for, but it’s believed that it could have served as a means for the Incas to traverse the gorge without having to go down into the valley beneath it.
It’s possible that the bridge was built as a defensive structure to stop enemies from entering the citadel. The Inca Bridge at Machu Picchu is a remarkable engineering achievement that will impress anyone who sees it.
Preparing for the Machu Picchu Inca Trail can be demanding. Below are some recommendations for enjoying this amazing hike.
Before hiking Machu Picchu, allow time to acclimate to Cusco’s high altitude. The trail reaches 4,000 meters (13,000 feet). Progressive acclimatization is required to prevent altitude sickness.
The Inca Trail has different routes with varying numbers of stairs based on the path you choose. The number of trails changes every year due to maintenance and updates, so we can’t give an exact number. However, we can share feedback from past hikers to give you an idea of what to expect on your trek.
Research on hikers who completed the Inca Trail found that they took around 5,000-7,000 steps. On average, a person takes 200 to 300 steps to walk one mile, equivalent to 120 to 190 steps for every kilometer. If you are going to hike the Inca Trail, keep in mind that you will come across many stairs! Don’t be discouraged; the experience you gain here will be valuable.
Thank you for your interest in having and adventure travel experience in Peru curated by Pacha Peru Explorers. Please take a moment to complete our short form, so one our friendly Adventure Consultants could provide you all the information for your trip of a lifetime in Peru.
Our Pledge | Your privacy is respected and protected. the Pacha Peru Explorers Company will never share, sell, or make public any of your personal contact information to third parties.
Remember | One of our Travel Experts will contact you soon to confirm the availability of the trip you chose, give you more information, and/or provide you alternative options. Once availlability is established, we will ask for a deposit and a completed online registration to confirm your spot on the trek. Please call us at (+51) 950 705034 with any questions or to confirm availability over the phone.
Price
USD
Per Person
We use SSL encryption to protect your personal and payment information.
Pay by card:
Contact us 24 Hrs
Inca Trail ( Classic ) 4D/3N Group tour
Experience the famous Inca Trail for 4 amazing days, and pass through the Sun Gate for that first magical sighting of Machu Picchu …
Price, From
$ 795.00
per person
Inca Trail ( Classic ) 4D/3N Group tour
Experience the famous Inca Trail for 4 amazing days, and pass through the Sun Gate for that first magical sighting of Machu Picchu …
Price, From
$ 795.00
per person
Inca Trail ( Classic ) 4D/3N Group tour
Experience the famous Inca Trail for 4 amazing days, and pass through the Sun Gate for that first magical sighting of Machu Picchu …
Price, From
$ 795.00
per person
Inca Trail ( Classic ) 4D/3N Group tour
Experience the famous Inca Trail for 4 amazing days, and pass through the Sun Gate for that first magical sighting of Machu Picchu …
Price, From
$ 795.00
per person
Inca Trail ( Classic ) 4D/3N Group tour
Experience the famous Inca Trail for 4 amazing days, and pass through the Sun Gate for that first magical sighting of Machu Picchu …
Price, From
$ 795.00
per person
Pacha Peru Explorers is a 100% peruvian, separates ourselves by our dedication to both our customer and our team. We work very hard to make sure that all our clients needs are taken care of throughout the tour with us. At the same time, we never forget about our brothers and sisters working tirelessly for us to make all of this possible. Responsible and sustainable tourism that gives as much to our community as to our clients.
Here at our company, we take pride in our reviews. We believe they are a true reflection of our business and help us improve our services. We encourage all customers to leave a review, whether it is positive or negative. We believe this feedback will help us grow and improve as a business. We would like to thank all of our customers who have taken the time to leave a review.
Let us arrange everything for you properly. Contact us, and one of our travel specialists will provide you with everything you need to make this an unforgettable experience.
