the inca trail

Inca Trail 4 Days Trek

Duration

4 Days

Difficulty

Challenging

Group Size

16

Price From

$ 749 USD

per person

View Dates

5.0

From 6589 reviews

Year-round (March 1 – January 31). Closed February for maintenance.

Trek Highlights

Experience the world’s most famous trek through ancient Inca ruins, cloud forests, and high mountain passes. Walk original Inca pathways to witness the magical sunrise at Machu Picchu’s Sun Gate. This 4-day journey combines archaeological wonders, diverse ecosystems, and breathtaking Andean panoramas.

Sun Gate Sunrise at Machu Picchu

Arrive at the Lost City of the Incas through the iconic Intipunku for an unforgettable first view at dawn

Conquer Dead Woman's Pass

Summit the highest point at 4,215m (13,828 ft) for 360-degree panoramic views of snow-capped Andes peaks

Ancient Inca Archaeological Sites

Explore Llactapata, Runkurakay, Sayacmarca, Phuyupatamarca, and Wiñayhuayna along original stone pathways

Expert Bilingual Guides

Professional guides with deep knowledge of Inca history, flora, fauna, and mountain safety techniques

Committed to Conservation

We support environmental conservation efforts and local community development in the region.

Picture Your Adventure

Images for Inca Trail 4 Days Trek

Explore breathtaking vistas, authentic cultural encounters, and unforgettable moments captured during our guided adventures around the world.

Inca Trail Day One - Trek Begins - First day of the Inca Trail trek through the Sacred Valley with mountain views
Dead Woman's Pass Summit - The challenging ascent to Warmi Wañusca, highest point of the Inca Trail at 4,215m
Sayacmarca Inca Ruins - The inaccessible town - dramatic Inca ruins perched on a narrow ridge on Day 3
Machu Picchu Arrival - The magical first view of Machu Picchu on Day 4 after completing the Inca Trail
Wiñayhuayna Terraces - The spectacular terraced ruins meaning 'Forever Young' near Day 3 campsite
Inca Trail Map Overview - Route map showing the 4-day Inca Trail trek to Machu Picchu

“Classic Machu Picchu Trek”

4 Days Tour Highlights

Classic 4 days Inca Trail Trek from Km. 82, Complete Machu Picchu Tour and great scenic train ride
  • Tour starts in Cusco and ends in Machu Picchu
  • Departs any day
  • Inca trail permit included
  • Machu Picchu ticket included
  • Free luggage storage in Cusco

Overview

Walking from one ancient Inca ruin to the next is a mystical and enigmatic experience you will never forget
Machu Picchu’s peculiar emplacement, high in the emerald green Andes, is characterized by a mystical cloud forest environment. This type of ecosystem is the habitat of unique species of flora and fauna, some of them threatened with extinction. The invaluable archaeological heritage of the Historic Sanctuary of Machu Picchu combines magnificently with the splendid natural surroundings.
  • Arrive to Machu Picchu through the Sun Gate.
  • Inca Trail permit included.
  • We pick you up from your Cusco hotel.
  • Expert guides and porters.
  • FREE luggage storage while hiking.

Itinerary

Day 1 (L)(D) : Cusco, Ollantaytambo, Piscacucho, Wayllabamba – “Vamonos!”

The adventure begins today in Cusco, Peru. Before leaving the hotel, make sure you are carrying your original passport and for those with a discount, a valid Student ID card is necessary. Travelers are collected at around 6:00 am from their hotels and start a spectacular scenic drive through the mythical Sacred Valley of the Incas with beautiful views of the Urubamba river, picturesque Andean villages and the Inca fortress of Ollantaytambo. In Piscacucho, kilometer eighty two, you will get acquainted with the rest of the crew and the porters who will be carrying the camping equipment. After clearing the gates and crossing a suspension footbridge across the Urubamba river, the trek begins with a gentle climb. Superb views of the snow-capped peak of Wakay Willka known as Veronica (5,893m) can be observed. After lunch, continue hiking towards the extensive Inca settlement of Llactapata and appreciate the impressive farming terraces. The Inca Trail follows the left bank of the river up to the village of Wayllabamba at 3,000m where you will enjoy dinner and camp for the night. (about 5 hr. trekking – 12 Km/7.5 miles)

Day 2 (B)(L)(D) : Wayllabamba, Warmi Wañuska (Dead Woman’s Pass), Paqaymayu – “Si se puede!”

Early wake up call, with hot tea brought to your tent. You need to complete a steep ascent reaching an altitude of 4,215m at Warmi Wañuska pass, the highest point of the Inca Trail. The uphill hike through Llulluchapampa will give you the opportunity to appreciate several species of birds. The trail traverses a beautiful cloud forest full of Polylepis or Queñua trees before entering the puna, a zone characterized by treeless grasslands. The last hard climb takes us right to the highest pass at Warmi Wañuska. Once at the top you will be rewarded with spectacular 360-degree views of the Andes and snow-covered peaks. After a deserved rest, continue traversing the slopes to our campsite in Paqaymayu at 3,600m. (about 6-7 hr. trekking – 11 Km/7 miles)

Day 3 (B)(L)(D) : Paqaymayu, Sayacmarca, Phuyupatamarca, Wiñayhuayna – “Que lindo dia!”

Possibly the longest day but one that will bring splendid landscapes. Start with a steady ascent to Runkuracay pass at 3,970m, passing through a circular inca control point. Continue to the ruins of Sayacmarca (“inaccessible town”) perched dramatically on edgy rocks at 3,497m. The Inca trail continues through cloud forest full of rare orchids, hanging mosses, bromeliads and tree ferns. Past the inca tunnel, reach Phuyupatamarca (cloud-level town) with its five ceremonial baths. Descend through orchid-rich cloud forest to Wiñayhuayna (forever young) at 2,650m, the last campsite before Machu Picchu. Explore the impressive nearby ruins. (about 7-8 hr. trekking – 16 Km/10 miles)

Day 4 (B) : Wiñayhuayna, Intipunku, Machu Picchu

Today begins at 4:00 AM. We wait at the checkpoint and access towards Intipunku as soon as gates open at 5:30 hrs. The path traverses a lush cloud forest of giant ferns to The Sun Gate (Intipunku) at 2,720m. Suddenly all efforts are rewarded with an unforgettable sight – the magical city of Machu Picchu framed by forested peaks. Take photos from the classic postcard view before hiking down for a comprehensive 2-hour guided tour of the citadel. Visit the Temple of the Sun, Intihuatana sundial, Room of Three Windows, and agricultural terraces. This marks the end of our services on this tour. (B)=Breakfast ; (L)=Lunch ; (D)=Dinner

Inclusions

  • Pre-departure Inca Trail tour briefing at our Cusco office
  • Hotel pickup in Cusco and transfer to Km. 82 trailhead
  • Official Inca Trail permit (government-issued, non-transferable)
  • Machu Picchu entrance ticket
  • 2-hour guided tour of Machu Picchu citadel
  • Professional bilingual guide (English/Spanish)
  • Assistant guide for groups of 9+ trekkers
  • Experienced cook and cooking equipment
  • Professional porter team carrying camping equipment
  • 3 nutritious breakfasts, 3 lunches, 3 dinners
  • Vegetarian options available
  • Hot tea delivered to tent each morning
  • Boiled water at every meal
  • Spacious Marmot Limestone tents (2 people per tent)
  • Double foam sleeping pads
  • Dining tent with tables and chairs
  • 24-hour emergency oxygen supply
  • First aid equipment
  • Free luggage storage in Cusco during trek
  • Inca Trail Survivor Certificate

Excluded in tour cost

  • Bus ticket Machu Picchu to Aguas Calientes
  • Train Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo
  • International flights to/from Peru
  • Travel insurance with emergency evacuation
  • Sleeping bag
  • Hiking poles
  • Single tent accommodation
  • Tips for guides, cook, and porters
  • Personal trekking gear
  • Additional porter service
  • Train upgrade
  • Huayna Picchu ticket

Price

2026 Inca Trail Season Pricing

    * Valid Student ID required for student discount. Expiration within 1 year of trek. ISIC cards not accepted.

    Note: Closed February for maintenance. Permits included. Book 4-6 months ahead for peak season (May-August).

    Group Service Price : Inca Trail 4 Days Trek (4 days)

    Starts from: Cusco | Deposit: $250
    From $749USD $USD per person, group service

    Optional add-ons

    Load (5 kg) of portering $ 85
    Sleeping bag $ 25
    Hiking poles $ 30
    Private tent upgrade (instead of shared) $ 40
    Huayna Picchu ticket $ 85

    * Valid Student ID required for student discount; expiration within 1 year of trek. ISIC cards not accepted.

    Permits and group sizes are limited — book early to secure your departure date.

    If any of the third-party costs included in this package experiences an increment, we will update the package price and contact you before charging the difference.

    Booking

    Note: Inca Trail closed every February for maintenance. Permits included in the package price. Book 4–6 months ahead for peak season (May–August).

    Numbers in each cell are permits remaining for that departure date.

    • Available
    • Pre-reserve
    • Sold out / closed

    how many travellers?

    –0+

    Select a date to start the inca trail

    Optionals

    students?

    We will need a digital copy of your student id card. Please email a scanned copy or digital photo to: info at incatrailreservations.com $-50 ea.
    –0+

    additional portering service?

    We need to obtain a permit for the porter along with yours. Please request now if you will need this service. It is highly recommended if you have not hiked above 10000 feet. 1 load = 5kg (11 lb). $85 pair.
    –0+

    sleeping bags?

    We have sleeping bags available in our office at the Cusco location. We rent them for the entire duration of the trek. $25 ea.
    –0+

    hiking poles?

    Due to the conditions of the terrain you will be hiking on, walking poles are recommended. $30 pair.
    –0+

    single accommodation?

    Normally tents are for two people, request here if you need single tent accommodation. $40 ea.
    –0+

    huayna picchu ticket?

    The high peak next to Machu Picchu is called Huayna Picchu. A special ticket is needed to hike to the top. Request this now due to limited availability per day. $85 ea.

    select your return service

    Choose your preferred return transport from Machu Picchu to Cusco. All options include private bus transfer.

    machu picchu overnight

    Staying overnight by Machu Picchu is possible the last day of the trek. If you decide for this option your train ticket will be issued for the next day with no extra charge.
    ^ Please select date on the availability calendar above ^

    Travel Insurance

    Comprehensive travel insurance is MANDATORY for all Inca Trail participants. Your policy must include: emergency medical coverage at altitude, high-altitude trekking to 5,000m, emergency helicopter evacuation (minimum $50,000 coverage), trip cancellation/interruption protection, and lost baggage coverage. Proof of valid insurance required at the pre-trek briefing in Cusco. Participants without valid insurance will not be permitted on the trail. No exceptions.

    Emergency Contact

    24/7 Emergency Hotline+51 984 123 45624/7 during your tourCusco Main Office+51 84 234 567Monday-Saturday 8:00 AM – 7:00 PM (Peru time)

    Age Restrictions

    Minimum age 12 years. Participants under 18 must be accompanied by parent or legal guardian. No upper age limit, but good physical fitness is required. Travelers over 60 should consult their physician regarding altitude trekking.

    Required Documents

    Original PassportRequiredMUST bring original passport on trek. Required at km 82 checkpoint, multiple trail checkpoints, and Machu Picchu entrance. No copies accepted.Valid Student ID CardOnly if booked with student discount. Will be checked at km 82 checkpoint. Must match passport name.Printed Tour VoucherRequiredPrint confirmation voucher or save PDF on phone. Show at briefing and on trek start day.

    Visa Requirements

    US, EU, UK, Canada, Australia, and most nationalities: No visa required for tourist stays up to 183 days in Peru. Free tourist stamp given at immigration upon arrival. Passport must be valid 6+ months beyond travel date with at least 2 blank pages. Other nationalities should check requirements with the Peruvian embassy in their country before booking.

    Deposit & Payment

    250

    Payment Methods

    Credit CardVisa, Mastercard, American Express accepted via secure payment portalNo additional fees – included in tour pricePayPalSecure online payment through PayPal (USD currency)No additional feesBank TransferDirect bank transfer to our US or Peru accountCustomer responsible for any transfer fees

    Booking Deadline

    Book 4-6 months ahead for peak season (May-August). Minimum 30 days for permit processing. Last-minute bookings possible if permits available.

    Payment Schedule

    Deposit$250 USD per person%At time of bookingBalanceRemaining amount%30 days before departure

    Booking Terms

    Non-refundable PermitInca Trail permits are government-issued and non-transferable. Once purchased, permits cannot be cancelled, changed, or refunded under any circumstances.Deposit Required$250 USD deposit per person required at booking to secure your Inca Trail permit. Permit purchased within 24 hours of confirmed deposit.Balance DueRemaining balance due 30 days before departure date. Full payment required for bookings made within 30 days.Passport Details RequiredFull passport details (name, number, nationality, DOB) required at booking. Name must match passport exactly—permits cannot be modified once issued.Travel InsuranceComprehensive travel insurance with emergency medical evacuation coverage is recommended.

    Cancellation Policy

    Cancellations must be submitted in writing to IncaTrailReservations.com. The deposit becomes non-refundable once the Inca Trail permit has been issued and confirmed by the Peruvian Government. Cancellation fees based on days before departure: 45-22 days: 40% of tour price; 21-9 days: 75% of tour price; 8 days or less: 100% (no refund). Airlines may impose additional 100% cancellation charges. Partial booking cancellations may result in extra charges for remaining travelers (e.g., under-occupancy or single room supplements). We strongly recommend comprehensive travel insurance with trip cancellation coverage.

    Safety Requirements

    Travel InsuranceRequiredComprehensive travel insurance with emergency helicopter evacuation coverage up to $50,000 is recommended.Physical FitnessRequiredAbility to trek 5-7 hours daily on uneven terrain at altitudes up to 4,215m. Consult physician before booking if you have heart, respiratory, or other medical conditions.Altitude AcclimatizationRequiredArrive in Cusco (3,400m) at least 2 days before trek start for altitude acclimatization. Do not fly directly from sea level to the trek.Proper FootwearRequiredBroken-in hiking boots with ankle support required. Trail shoes acceptable but boots strongly recommended for uneven Inca stone steps.Rain GearRequiredWaterproof rain jacket and pants required year-round. Weather changes rapidly at altitude and rain is possible even in dry season.

    Fitness Requirements

    Level:GoodRequirements:This trek requires good physical fitness due to sustained hiking at altitude (up to 4,215m). You should be able to walk 5-7 hours daily on uneven terrain with significant elevation gain and loss. Day 2 involves 1,200m ascent. Begin cardio training 2-3 months before departure—focus on stair climbing, incline treadmill, or hill hiking. Previous multi-day hiking experience is helpful but not required.

    Medical Requirements

    No vaccinations are legally required for Peru. Consult a travel clinic for recommendations (Hepatitis A/B, Typhoid common). Altitude medication (Diamox/Acetazolamide) is available at Cusco pharmacies—consult your doctor before taking. Inform us of any medical conditions, allergies, or dietary requirements at booking. Bring personal medications in original containers.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    The Inca Trail is rated Challenging, requiring good physical fitness. The main challenge is altitude—reaching 4,215m (13,828 ft) at Dead Woman’s Pass on Day 2. Most reasonably fit travelers complete it successfully with proper acclimatization. We recommend arriving in Cusco 2-3 days early and starting a cardio training program 2-3 months before departure.

    Book 4-6 months in advance for peak season (May-August) as only 500 permits are issued daily. For shoulder season (April, September-November), 2-3 months is usually sufficient. We purchase your non-transferable Inca Trail permit immediately upon booking confirmation—this permit is linked to your passport and cannot be changed.

    The best time is April to November, Peru’s dry season. May-September offers the clearest skies and best conditions. The trail closes every February for maintenance. Shoulder months (April, October-November) have fewer crowds but slightly higher rain chances. We operate year-round except February.

    Yes, altitude is significant on this trek. You’ll climb from 2,720m at km 82 to 4,215m at Dead Woman’s Pass. We strongly recommend arriving in Cusco 2-3 days early for acclimatization. Stay hydrated, avoid alcohol, drink coca tea, and consider altitude medication (Diamox). Our guides carry emergency oxygen throughout the trek.

    Essential items include: broken-in hiking boots, layers for varying temperatures (-5°C to 25°C), rain jacket and pants, sun protection (hat, sunscreen, sunglasses), headlamp for Day 4, and a daypack (porters carry main bags). We provide tents, sleeping pads, and all meals. Sleeping bags are available for rent ($25).

    Yes! Huayna Picchu permits can be added at booking time. Only 400 spots are available daily, so early booking is essential. The climb takes 2-3 hours round-trip from Machu Picchu and offers spectacular aerial views of the citadel. Note: this extends your Day 4 significantly.

    Students with a valid student ID card receive a discount. Send a digital photo of your student card immediately after booking. The card must have an expiration date within one year of your trek. ISIC cards and graduate student cards are not accepted by Peruvian authorities. Student must be under 25 years old.