How far ahead should I book?

Permits are limited and April to September usually sells out 3 to 6 months ahead. The calendar on this page shows how many permits are left for each start date.

Is the deposit refundable?

The $250 deposit pays for your permit. Once the permit is issued in your passport name it cannot be refunded or transferred. See the deposit and cancellation terms.

How fit do I need to be?

You walk 5 to 7 hours a day, up to 4,215 m on day 2. Arrive in Cusco 2 to 3 days early to adjust to the altitude. See age and fitness .

What is not included?

Sleeping bags, trekking poles, tips and travel insurance. The bus down from Machu Picchu and the Expedition train back to Cusco are included. You can rent the sleeping bag and poles in the booking box.

How big are the groups?

Up to 16 hikers and 8 on average, with 1 guide per 6 hikers.

Who gets the student price?

Students with a valid university ID that meets the government rules pay $769 instead of $819. Bring the card: it is checked on the trail. See the student conditions .

What happens after I book?

We buy your permit within 24 hours of your deposit and email you the confirmation. The balance is due 30 days before the trek. See payment .

Can I change the name or the date?

No. The permit is issued in your passport name and cannot be changed or transferred once issued. See permits .

Inca Trail Round Trip from Cusco: Return Train & Transfers

Q: How do I get back to Cusco?

It is included: after the guided tour, the bus down to Aguas Calientes and the Expedition train back to Cusco: train and bus via Ollantaytambo to Wanchaq station, or train all the way to San Pedro or Poroy station, depending on the departure. You are back in Cusco between 5:30 pm and 12:45 am. You can upgrade to the Vistadome train for $80 in the booking box.

Dates
Overview
Itinerary
Included
Price

Choose your start date

Please proceed to booking by clicking on the date you would like to start the tour.

Trek Highlights

The Classic 4-day, 42 km Inca Trail from km 82 to Machu Picchu, entering through the Sun Gate, with the trip back included: the bus down to Aguas Calientes and the Expedition train back to Cusco: train and bus via Ollantaytambo to Wanchaq station, or train all the way to San Pedro or Poroy station, depending on the departure. Three nights camping, Dead Woman’s Pass at 4,215 m on day 2, permit and Machu Picchu ticket included. The Classic costs $749 and ends at Machu Picchu: the train and bus back are a $70 add-on and the bus down from Machu Picchu is extra. This round trip is $819 with all of it included.

Return to Cusco included

After Machu Picchu: the bus down to Aguas Calientes and the Expedition train back to Cusco: train and bus via Ollantaytambo to Wanchaq station, or train all the way to San Pedro or Poroy station, depending on the departure. Vistadome upgrade +$80.

Sun Gate on day 4

Your first view of Machu Picchu is from Intipunku, before a 2-hour guided tour of the citadel.

Dead Woman's Pass, 4,215 m

The highest point of the trek, on day 2.

Four Inca sites on the trail

Llactapata, Sayacmarca, Phuyupatamarca and Wiñay Wayna.

Committed to Conservation

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

“Complete Round-Trip from Cusco”

4 Days Tour Highlights

All-inclusive 4 days Inca Trail Trek with hotel pickup in Cusco and the Expedition train and bus back included

Pickup from your Cusco hotel, return to Wanchaq, San Pedro or Poroy station in Cusco
Departs year-round except February (trail closed)
Inca trail permit included
Machu Picchu ticket included
Train and bus included in price

Round trip or Classic?

Same trek, guides and permit. The difference is the trip back to Cusco.

This tour

Round trip from Cusco

$819 per person

Return to Cusco: Included (Expedition train)
Bus down from Machu Picchu: Included
Where it ends: Cusco (Wanchaq, San Pedro or Poroy station), between 5:30 pm and 12:45 am, depending on the departure
Students: $769

Check dates

Classic Inca Trail

$749 per person

Return to Cusco: $70 add-on in the booking box (train and bus)
Bus down from Machu Picchu: Not included
Where it ends: Machu Picchu
Students: $699

Planning a night in Aguas Calientes? See the Classic Inca Trail

Overview

Porters carrying loads along the Inca Trail beside the Urubamba River

The Classic Inca Trail with the trip back to Cusco included: hotel pickup, the bus down from Machu Picchu and the Expedition train back, in one price

This all-inclusive Inca Trail package takes the hassle out of planning your trek to Machu Picchu. From the moment we pick you up at your Cusco hotel until you are back in Cusco, every train ride and bus journey is included. Walk the same ancient pathways the Incas used centuries ago, crossing high mountain passes and traversing cloud forests before arriving at the Sun Gate for your first view of Machu Picchu.

Complete round-trip from Cusco included.
Inca Trail permit included.
Expedition train and all buses included.
Expert guides and porters.
FREE luggage storage while hiking.

Itinerary

Day 1 (L)(D) : Cusco, Ollantaytambo, Piscacucho, Wayllabamba – “The Journey Begins”

Your all-inclusive Inca Trail adventure begins with hotel pickup in Cusco at around 6:00 AM. Before leaving, ensure you have your original passport and valid Student ID card if applicable. Our comfortable transport takes you on a scenic drive through the Sacred Valley of the Incas, passing the Urubamba river, traditional Andean villages, and the impressive Inca fortress of Ollantaytambo. At Piscacucho, kilometer eighty two, meet your trekking crew and the porters who will carry camping equipment throughout the trek. After clearing the checkpoint and crossing a suspension footbridge over the Urubamba river, begin with a gentle climb offering superb views of snow-capped Wakay Willka (Veronica, 5,893m). After lunch, continue to the extensive Inca settlement of Llactapata with its impressive farming terraces. The trail follows the left bank up to Wayllabamba village at 3,000m for dinner and overnight camping. (about 5 hr. trekking – 11 Km/7 miles)

Day 2 (B)(L)(D) : Wayllabamba, Warmi Wañuska (Dead Woman’s Pass), Paqaymayu – “The Summit Challenge”

Early wake up with hot tea delivered to your tent. Today’s challenge is the steep ascent to Warmi Wañuska pass at 4,215m, the highest point of the Inca Trail. The uphill hike through Llulluchapampa offers opportunities to spot various bird species. The trail traverses beautiful cloud forest filled with Polylepis (Queñua) trees before entering the puna zone of treeless grasslands. The final climb brings you to the summit of Warmi Wañuska, with 360-degree views of the Andes and snow-covered peaks. After a well-deserved rest, descend the slopes to Paqaymayu camp at 3,600m. (about 6-7 hr. trekking – 11 Km/7 miles)

Day 3 (B)(L)(D) : Paqaymayu, Sayacmarca, Phuyupatamarca, Wiñayhuayna – “The Scenic Route”

Possibly the longest day but one offering splendid landscapes. Begin with a steady ascent to Runkuracay pass at 3,970m, passing a circular Inca control point. Continue to Sayacmarca (“inaccessible town”) dramatically perched on rocky outcrops at 3,497m. The trail continues through cloud forest abundant with 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 final campsite before Machu Picchu. Explore the impressive nearby ruins. The government assigns campsites; when Wiñay Wayna is full or closed, the camp is Phuyupatamarca. (about 7-8 hr. trekking – 16 Km/10 miles)

Day 4 (B) : Wiñayhuayna, Intipunku, Machu Picchu, Complete Return to Cusco

Wake at 4:00 AM for the last stretch. Wait at the checkpoint and access towards Intipunku as gates open at 5:30 hrs. The path traverses lush cloud forest of giant ferns to The Sun Gate (Intipunku) at 2,720m. Your first sight of Machu Picchu, framed by forested peaks in the early morning light. Take photos from this viewpoint, then walk down for a 2-hour guided tour of the citadel on route 3-B (circuit 3), the route the Inca Trail ticket covers: the Temple of the Sun viewpoint, the Twelve Openings (Doce Vanos), the eastern storehouses (qolqas), the Water Mirrors (Espejos de Agua), the Temple of the Condor, Pisonay Square and the archaeological reserve. This route does not enter the Plaza of the Temples, the Intiwatana or the Sacred Rock. After your tour, take the bus down to Aguas Calientes for lunch and time to explore. Board the included Expedition train for the scenic journey through the Urubamba canyon. Depending on the departure, you change to a bus at Ollantaytambo for Wanchaq station, or stay on the train to San Pedro or Poroy station. You are back in Cusco between 5:30 pm and 12:45 am. (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 (circuit 3, route 3-B)
2-hour guided tour of Machu Picchu citadel
Professional bilingual guide (English/Spanish)
1 guide per 6 hikers
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
Bus ticket Machu Picchu to Aguas Calientes
Expedition train back to Cusco (with a bus from Ollantaytambo to Wanchaq station, or by train to San Pedro or Poroy station, depending on the departure)
Free luggage storage in Cusco during trek
Inca Trail Survivor Certificate

Excluded in tour cost

International flights to/from Peru
Travel insurance with emergency evacuation (strongly recommended)
Sleeping bag (available for rent: $25)
Hiking poles (available for rent: $30)
Single tent upgrade ($80)
Tips for guides, cook, and porters
Personal trekking gear
Additional porter service ($85 per load)
Train upgrade to Vistadome ($80)
Huayna Picchu ticket ($85)

Group Service Price : 4 DAY INCA TRAIL – CUSCO ROUND-TRIP (4 days)

Starts from: Cusco | Deposit: $250

From $819USD $769USD per person * lower price with valid student ID

	GENERAL	Double/Triple	Single
STANDARD:	Inca Trail Group Service Cusco Round trip	$ 819.00	$ 819.00

*If any of the third party costs included on this package experiences an increment, we will immediately update the package price. Trekkers affected by the modification must pay the difference upon arrival in Cusco.

Booking Essentials

Travel Insurance

Travel insurance with emergency evacuation cover is strongly recommended. It is not required to book; the traveller is responsible for their own cover.

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.

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 PassportMUST 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 VoucherPrint confirmation voucher or save PDF on phone. Show at briefing and on trek start day.

Deposit & Payment

250

Payment Methods

CardVisa, Mastercard and American Express on our secure payment pageNo card feePayPalPayPal account, in US dollarsNo feeVenmoVenmo, through the PayPal checkoutNo fee

Payment Schedule

Deposit$250 USD per personAt time of bookingBalanceRemaining amount30 days before departure

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.

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 InsuranceTravel insurance with emergency evacuation cover is strongly 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.

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.

Safety Requirements

Travel InsuranceTravel insurance with emergency evacuation cover is strongly recommended. It is not required to book; the traveller is responsible for their own cover.Physical FitnessAbility 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 AcclimatizationArrive 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 FootwearBroken-in hiking boots with ankle support required. Trail shoes acceptable but boots strongly recommended for uneven Inca stone steps.Rain GearWaterproof rain jacket and pants required year-round. Weather changes rapidly at altitude and rain is possible even in dry season.

Check dates · from $819

Inca Trail Round Trip from Cusco: 4 Days with Return Train