Inca Trail 4 Days To Machupicchu
From US$715 per person
Trip Summary
Total time
4 days / 3 nights
Meals included
3 Breackfasts - 3 Lunches - 3 Dinners
Group size
Up to 10 people
Transportation
Bus and Train
Why Pick This Tour
This is the most iconic hiking experience on the planet. Over 4 days and 3 nights, you’ll cover 26 miles along the ancient Qhapaq Ñan — an epic journey that combines serious physical challenge with total immersion in Andean culture.
The best part of the tour: Guided tour of Inca Trail 4 Days To Machupicchu
Over View — Inca Trail 4 Days To Machu Picchu
The Classic 4-Day Inca Trail is the most sought-after trekking adventure in Peru. This route takes you through some of the most jaw-dropping scenery in the Andes and the cloud forest, revealing an incredible collection of ruins that speak to the greatness of the Inca Empire.
Along the 26 miles of stone-paved trail, you’ll pass through one-of-a-kind ecosystems and visit key sites like Llactapata, Runkurakay, Sayaqmarka, Phuyupatamarca, and Wiñay Wayna. This is a challenging hike (Moderate Difficulty), but totally doable with proper acclimatization.
You’ll be led by a bilingual professional guide and supported by our team of porters and cooks, making sure your experience is safe, educational, and deeply connected to nature. Your journey wraps up with the breathtaking sight of Machu Picchu from the Sun Gate at sunrise.
Day 1 : Cusco – Piscacucho (KM 82) – Wayllabamba
Super early in the morning (around 4:00 a.m.), our guide will pick you up from your hotel in Cusco and we’ll head by bus to the town of Piscacucho, also known as Kilometer 82 (KM 82) — the official starting point of the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu. After going through the entrance checkpoint, we’ll start hiking along historic trails with amazing views of the snow-capped Verónica mountain and the Urubamba River.
Along the way, we’ll visit the archaeological sites of Llactapata and Willkarakay, both important for their strategic and agricultural roles during Inca times. We’ll enjoy a hot lunch outdoors, then continue hiking to our first campsite at Wayllabamba — a cozy spot surrounded by Andean nature. Dinner and overnight at camp in a peaceful, energizing setting.
Day 2 : Wayllabamba – Warmiwañusca Pass – Pacaymayo
This is the toughest day on the Inca Trail — and one of the most unforgettable moments of the whole trip. We’ll kick things off with breakfast at camp, fueling up for a high-altitude trekking day.
The hike starts early, heading toward the famous Warmiwañusca Pass, also known as Dead Woman’s Pass — one of the highest points on the Classic Inca Trail. The climb can be demanding, but it’s completely achievable with the right prep, a steady pace, and the support of our professional trekking guides.
From Wayllabamba at 9,826 ft (2,995 m), we’ll climb to 13,828 ft (4,215 m) at the pass, then descend to the Pacaymayo campsite — one of the most iconic spots on the Inca Trail. This stretch offers incredible mountain scenery, panoramic views of the Peruvian Andes, and an unforgettable sense of accomplishment when you reach the top.
After a well-deserved lunch and some rest time at camp, you can relax or explore the area before sharing a hearty dinner — closing out another amazing day on the trail.
Day 3 : Pacaymayo – Runkurakay – Phuyupatamarca – Wiñay Wayna
Many people call this the most stunning day on the Inca Trail — and not just for the natural scenery, but for the cultural and historical richness you’ll find at every turn. We’ll start the day visiting the archaeological sites of Runkurakay, Sayaqmarka, and Phuyupatamarca — all important Inca Trail landmarks set against spectacular backdrops where the Andes meet the cloud forest.
The trail descends gently along ancient stone-paved Inca paths surrounded by lush jungle vegetation, where you might spot exotic birds, wild orchids, and if you’re lucky, even a spectacled bear — an iconic species of Peruvian wildlife.
We’ll end the day at the Wiñay Wayna campsite, one of the most beautiful and well-preserved archaeological sites on the Inca Trail, located just a few miles from the Inca citadel of Machu Picchu. Dinner included and third night at camp under clear skies with stargazing — the perfect end to an unforgettable day.
Day 4 : Wiñay Wayna – Sun Gate – Machu Picchu – Cusco
The day you’ve been waiting for. Very early in the morning, we’ll have a special moment to say goodbye to our porter friends who carried our gear throughout the trek. After this sendoff, we’ll head toward the Sun Gate (Inti Punku) — the spot where ancient Inca travelers first caught sight of Machu Picchu. Seeing the citadel from above, lit up by the first rays of sunlight, is truly magical. After taking panoramic photos, we’ll enter the citadel for a 2-to-3-hour guided tour, exploring the agricultural, urban, and ceremonial sectors. You’ll see temples, chambers, and sacred fountains that reveal the genius and spirituality of this ancient civilization.
After the tour, we’ll take the bus down to Aguas Calientes. You’ll have free time for lunch or rest before boarding the return train to Ollantaytambo. At the Ollantaytambo station, a tourist shuttle will be waiting to take you back to Cusco. The tour ends at Plaza Regocijo.
What’s Included
- Pre-Trip Briefing: Info session before the tour starts where we go over the itinerary, general tips, safety rules, and logistics for the Inca Trail.
- Transportation (Cusco to KM 82): Comfortable, authorized tourist shuttle from Cusco to KM 82 — the official Inca Trail starting point.
- Bilingual Professional Guide (Spanish & English): A certified guide who specializes in the history, culture, and archaeology of the Inca Trail and Machu Picchu.
- Guided Tour of Machu Picchu + Entire Inca Trail Route: Full guided experience throughout the entire Inca Trail trek plus a guided visit inside Machu Picchu with historical and cultural commentary.
- Inca Trail Permits & Entrance Fees: All required official permits issued by the Peruvian government are handled and included.
- Official Machu Picchu Entrance – Circuit 3-B (Royal Design): Official entry to Machu Picchu via Circuit 3-B, designed to showcase areas connected to Inca royalty.
- Full Meals During the Trek: 3 breakfasts, 3 lunches, and 3 dinners: Complete, balanced meals throughout the trek — nutritious and adapted to your dietary needs (vegetarian and vegan options available).
- 3 Nights of Camping: Stays at authorized campsites along the Inca Trail, with proper rest in nature.
- First Aid Kit & Oxygen: Basic first aid kit and emergency oxygen available throughout the trek for emergencies and altitude sickness.
- Full Camping Gear (includes 2-person tents, sleeping pads, dining tent, kitchen, etc.): Complete camping setup that keeps you comfortable and well-organized throughout the journey.
- Porters & Cooks (for gear transport and meal prep for the group): Specialized team handling equipment transport and daily meal preparation for the group.
- Bus Ride Down from Machu Picchu to Aguas Calientes (Concetur): Official tourist bus from Machu Picchu down to the town of Aguas Calientes.
- Return Train Ticket to Ollantaytambo (Expedition Service): Expedition-class tourist train from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo.
- Shuttle from Ollantaytambo to Cusco: Ground transfer from Ollantaytambo back to Cusco.
What’s Not Included
- Personal Porter (7 kg) — Extra Cost: Optional personal porter service to carry your extra gear during the Inca Trail.
- Duffel Bag: Travel duffel bag not included — needed for transporting your gear during the trek.
- Breakfast on Day 1: Breakfast on the first day is not included.
- Lunch & Dinner on Day 4 in Aguas Calientes: You’ll have free time to grab lunch on your own in town.
- Clothing & Personal Gear: Trekking clothing and personal equipment are not included.
- Sleeping Bag — Available for rent at $25 USD (recommended due to cold temperatures): Thermal sleeping bag available for rental — highly recommended for cold nights.
- Trekking Poles — Available for rent at $20 USD for a pair (recommended for stability): Trekking poles available for rental to help with stability on the trail.
- Tips — Optional: Tips for the crew are voluntary and up to you.
- Extra Costs Due to Factors Beyond Our Control: Bad weather, illness, government policy changes, strikes, etc. are not covered.
- Travel Insurance — Recommended: We strongly recommend getting travel insurance that covers medical emergencies and unexpected situations before your trip.
Packing List & Essential Tips
Before the Trip
- Must-Have Documents: Make sure to bring your original passport or national ID. It’s the only valid document for entry to the archaeological sites.
- Acclimatization & Insurance: Get travel insurance that covers medical emergencies and cancellations. We recommend spending at least 2 days in Cusco or the Sacred Valley before starting the Inca Trail to properly adjust to the altitude.
- Extra Tickets: If you want to visit Huayna Picchu Mountain or Machu Picchu Mountain, book your ticket as far in advance as possible — spots are very limited and not included.
What to Bring
- Trekking Backpack: 25 liters max. Avoid large backpacks — they’re not allowed inside Machu Picchu. You’ll be carrying your own gear like your sleeping bag and personal items.
- Layered Clothing: Wear comfortable, lightweight clothes in layers to handle extreme temperature swings (intense cold and heat).
- Rain Gear & Footwear: Waterproof jacket or rain poncho (in rainy season), hat/cap, sunscreen, sunglasses, and sturdy, broken-in trekking boots (not brand new ones).
- Water & Snacks: Reusable water bottle. Extra snacks can be picked up in Cusco.
- Cash: Bring cash for shopping or personal expenses in Aguas Calientes.
During the Tour & Machu Picchu Rules
- Safety & Route: Be on time, always follow your guide’s instructions, and never leave the marked trail. The Inca Trail has several forks, so stay close to the group.
- Key Restrictions:
- No drones, large tripods, or extendable selfie sticks allowed.
- You cannot stop the flow of the circuit or try to go back. The route inside Machu Picchu is one-way only.
- No eating inside the Machu Picchu citadel. Only water is allowed.
Important — Read Before Booking:
The company is not responsible for denied entry to Machu Picchu due to invalid documentation, such as expired student IDs or expired identity documents.
We recommend reading these policies carefully before confirming your booking. By making your payment, you agree to all terms and conditions.
Extra Tickets (Wayna Picchu, etc.)
If you booked add-on tickets like Wayna Picchu access, keep in mind that these tickets are also non-refundable and non-transferable. If you change your date or cancel, they’ll be lost and you’ll need to buy new ones.
Final Recommendation:
Before booking, make sure you’re clear on your travel plans and reservation dates. All Machu Picchu tickets are personal, non-refundable, and non-changeable — any changes mean new costs.
We’re here to help you plan an unforgettable experience!
2026 Rates — Inca Trail 4 Days
This 2026, we invite you to experience one of Peru’s most incredible adventures: the 4-Day Inca Trail to Machu Picchu. Based on current market expectations, we’ve put together a Premium package that combines adventure, history, culture, and comfort.
Our package includes carefully selected services that guarantee a safe and enjoyable trek, led by experts with a sustainable approach. Plus, we cap off this one-of-a-kind experience with a spectacular return trip on the Expedition train — perfect for soaking in the Andean scenery in total comfort.
Single Rate:
- Adults & Students: $715.00 USD per person
Cancellation Policy — Inca Trail 4 Days
These Cancellation Policies for the 4-Day Inca Trail apply to all bookings made with Viajes Perú. All operations follow the regulations set by Peru’s Ministry of Culture and authorized tourism operators.
- Cancellations by the Traveler
- If you cancel the 4-Day Inca Trail after making full payment, you’ll be refunded the amount paid minus the $200 USD per person deposit, which is non-refundable.
- If you’ve only paid the $200 USD deposit, no refund will be issued, as this amount covers the official Inca Trail permit, Machu Picchu entrance, and other regulated services that are non-refundable and non-changeable per Peru’s Ministry of Culture policies.
- Cancellations Due to Force Majeure or External Causes
In the event of cancellations caused by circumstances beyond our control, such as:
- Strikes
- Road blockages
- Natural disasters
- Train service suspensions
- Government orders
⚠️ No refund will be given for the Inca Trail permit or Machu Picchu entrance, as these are part of the non-refundable $200 USD per person deposit. Inca Trail permits are personal, named, and non-transferable under current regulations.
- Cancellation Requests
All cancellation requests must be sent by email to: 📧 viajesperureservas@gmail.com — at least 2 weeks before the tour start date.
Your request must include:
- Full name of the traveler
- Scheduled Inca Trail date
- Proof of payment
Requests will only be handled during business hours.
- Deposit — Non-Refundable
The $200 USD per person deposit for the 4-Day Inca Trail is non-refundable, non-transferable, and non-reusable under any circumstances. This amount covers the advance purchase of official Inca Trail permits and Machu Picchu entrance, strictly regulated by Peru’s Ministry of Culture.
- Date Changes
Date changes for the 4-Day Inca Trail are possible, however:
- You automatically lose your Inca Trail permit and Machu Picchu entrance, since these are personal, named, and non-transferable.
- The $200 USD per person deposit is non-refundable, as it covers the purchase of official permits.
- A new travel date will require new permits, meaning a new $200 USD per person deposit, subject to availability.
Viajes Perú can help you find a new date but cannot guarantee tour confirmation.
- No-Show
If you don’t show up on the day of the tour and haven’t notified us in advance, no refund of any kind will be issued, regardless of the amount paid.
FAQ — Inca Trail 4 Days to Machu Picchu
How hard is the 4-Day Inca Trail?
- The 4-Day Inca Trail is moderate to challenging. It’s great for travelers in good shape, since it includes several hours of hiking per day and high mountain passes like Warmiwañusca (Dead Woman’s Pass — 13,828 ft / 4,215 m).
Do I need a permit for the 4-Day Inca Trail?
- Yes. The official Inca Trail permit is mandatory, limited, and regulated by Peru’s Ministry of Culture. Permits are personal and non-transferable, so we recommend booking 3 to 6 months in advance.
Does the 4-Day Inca Trail tour include Machu Picchu?
- Yes. The tour includes the official Machu Picchu entrance, typically Circuit 3, subject to availability.
Where does the 4-Day Inca Trail start and end?
- It starts at KM 82 (Piscacucho) and ends at Machu Picchu, entering the citadel through the Sun Gate (Inti Punku).
Where do you sleep during the 4-Day Inca Trail?
- You sleep at official campsites along the trail. The agency provides tents, sleeping pads, and camping gear.
What’s included during the 4-Day Inca Trail?
- Typically includes:
- Licensed professional guide
- Porters and support staff
- Full meals during the trek
- Camping equipment
- Machu Picchu entrance
What should I bring for the 4-Day Inca Trail?
- We recommend:
- Original passport
- Day backpack
- Trekking clothes and warm layers
- Rain jacket or poncho
- Hiking boots
- Sunscreen and bug spray
What’s the best time to do the 4-Day Inca Trail?
- The best season is April through October (dry season). The Inca Trail is closed in February for maintenance.
Are porters required?
- Not required, but highly recommended for comfort. There’s a weight limit on personal luggage.
How far in advance should I book the 4-Day Inca Trail?
- We recommend booking 3 to 6 months ahead, especially during peak season (May through September).
Can I do the 4-Day Inca Trail without a guide?
- No. The Inca Trail can only be done with an authorized agency and official guide.
