Cusco City Tour Half Day (Private Tour)
Discover Cusco’s top highlights in a half-day tour filled with history and Inca sites. ...
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The Inca Trail to Machu Picchu is, without a doubt, one of the most popular trekking routes in the world. For four days, you will have the opportunity to hike ancient trails built by the Incas, hundreds of years ago surrounded by stunning landscapes, mysterious ruins and unique biodiversity. From majestic mountains to lush valleys, each step will take you closer to one of the greatest wonders of humanity: Machu Picchu. The hike culminates at the impressive Machu Picchu on day 4, a place full of mystery, which will leave you breathless when you see its majesty from the top. If you are looking for adventure, history, nature and a deep connection with the Andean culture, the Inca Trail is the experience you can’t miss this 2025.
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The Inca Trail to Machu Picchu is one of the most famous trekking routes by travelers from all over the world. This 4-day, 3-night trek will take you through breathtaking Andean landscapes, Inca ruins.
This trek is not only a physical challenge, but also a profound cultural journey. The hike culminates at the impressive Machu Picchu, a place full of mystery that will leave you breathless when you see its majesty from the top.
Climbing to the Sun Gate
The Inca Trail is an ancient trekking route built by the Incas more than 600 years ago, connecting several of the main cities of the Inca Empire until reaching the famous Machu Picchu. This route is a perfect combination of nature, history and culture, which makes it one of the most requested routes by travelers.
The Inca Trail or Machu Picchu Hike is a hiking trail in Peru that leads to Machu Picchu, the ancient capital of the Inca Empire. Along the 43 kilometers of the trail, the trail passes through several types of Andean environments including cloud forest, highlands, settlements, tunnels, and many ancient ruins located along the trail before ending the terminus at the Sun Gate on Machu Picchu mountain.
The 4-day Inca Trail is the most coveted trekking experience for those travelers wanting to reach the citadel of Machu Picchu in a unique way, which is not only a hike, but an immersion in the history and nature of Peru. This route is part of a network of roads that the Incas used to connect their main cities, this route includes mountains, cloud forests, valleys and archaeological ruins.
This trek is not only a physical experience, but also an emotional one. Along the way, you will feel the effort of each step as you enter into the spirituality of a journey that connects the Inca culture with the natural landscape of the Andes. It is not simply a journey to Machu Picchu like many others; it is a journey of discovery, self-improvement and deep contact with the Andean tradition.
This tour is specially designed for those seeking an unparalleled adventure in Peru, allowing you to explore diverse archaeological sites as you make your way to one of the New Seven Wonders of the World.
While there are many ways to get to Machu Picchu, such as the Salkantay trek and Lares trek, among others, the Inca Trail is unique because it allows you to walk along a historic trail that only a few can walk every day. Also, unlike other Machu Picchu Tours by train, the Inca Trail Tour allows you to enjoy the peace of nature and the closeness to the Inca legacy in an authentic way.
The Inca Trail passes through various altitudes, which can influence your physical performance and your health, especially because of the altitude. See some details of the hike:
Kilometer 82 (Starting Point of the Hike)
Altitude: 2,600 meters / 8,530 feet
Kilometer 82 is the starting point for the classic Inca Trail Hike to Machu Picchu. This altitude is relatively moderate and provides a good starting point for acclimatization before facing the more challenging sections of the trail along the way. The terrain on this stretch is relatively gentle, crossing small villages and the first views of the Andean mountains. During the hike, you will enjoy the view of the Urubamba Valley and the ruins of Patallacta, an Inca archaeological site along the way.
Average temperature: 12°C to 20°C (54°F to 68°F)
Climate: The weather is nice, helping travelers adapt to the altitude gradually.
Tip: It is advisable to start the trek at a gentle pace, as this altitude allows your body to get used to the more extreme heights you will encounter later on.
Warmiwañusca Pass (Highest Point)
Altitude: 4,200 meters / 13,780 feet
Warmiwañusca Pass, also known as “Dead Woman’s Pass”, is the highest point on the Inca Trail. With an altitude of 4,200 meters / 13,780 feet, this pass is one of the most challenging of the trail, located on the second day of the hike. The ascent to this pass is steep and challenging, but once reached, the panoramic views of the surrounding mountains is breathtaking. The view from this point is a priceless reward after the physical effort.
Average temperature: 0°C to 5°C (32°F to 41°F)
Climate: It is typically cold and windy during the year, especially at the summit.
Tip: Make sure you have warm clothing for this day, such as waterproof jackets, gloves and scarves. Also, bring enough water to keep you hydrated, as the air at this altitude is drier.
This is the most challenging day of the Inca Trail, and the physical effort required to get here is significant. However, once you reach the top, the feeling of accomplishment and the unparalleled views make the effort worthwhile.
Reaching the Sun Gate of Machu Picchu
Altitude: 2,430 meters / 7,972 feet / 1.51 miles
The Sun Gate of Machu Picchu is the final destination of the Inca Trail and one of the most famous archaeological site before you reach the ruins of Machu Picchu . Located 2,430 meters above sea level, Machu Picchu is in a privileged location, surrounded by mountains covered with tropical vegetation and a spectacular landscape. Upon arrival, you can enjoy the incredible view of the Inca citadel down below.
Average temperature: 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F)
Climate: Temperate and warm, especially during the day. In the afternoon is usually cool.
Tip: When you arrive at Machu Picchu from the Sun Gate, take the opportunity to explore the citadel from the top before you go down, take pictures in the most iconic places Be sure to also climb Huayna Picchu if you have an additional ticket for it, as it offers spectacular views of the archaeological site. Although Machu Picchu is at a lower altitude than the Warmiwañusca Pass, it is still a place that should be explored with time and patience, as its historical energy and views will take your breath away.
Here we share with you the detailed itinerary of our Inca Trail Hike to Machu Picchu. Each day is carefully designed to offer you a unique experience.The plan is ready for you!
Cusco - Km 82 - Patallacta - Ayapata (14 km, 6 hrs): You will be picked up at your hotel in Cusco at 4:00 AM and travel by car to Kilometer 82 which is the begining of the trek to Machu Picchu. The first camp is located at 3,300 m (10,826 ft). You will spend the night in comfortable tents.
Ayapata - Warmiwañusca - Chaquicocha (16 km, 10 hrs): This is the most difficult and longest day of the trip. In 10 hours of hiking, you will cross 2 mountains: the Dead Woman's Pass, which is the highest point of the Inca Trail, and the Runkuraqay Pass.
Chaquicocha - Phuyupatamarca - Wiñaywayna (10 km, 6 hrs): This is one of the most beautiful and relaxing days. During 6 hours of trekking, you will cross diverse ecosystems and visit the archaeological of Phuyupatamarca, Intipata and Wiñaywayna.
Wiñaywayna - Machu Picchu - Cusco (6 km, 2 hrs): Today we leave early to hike 2 hours to Machu Picchu passing through the Sun Gate and getting your first view of Machu Picchu. After the visit, you will take the train back and bus to Cusco, arriving at your hotel around 8:00 p.m.
Best Operator: Expert guides and quality service.
Exclusive Camps: Less crowds, more peace of mind.
Personal Porter: Carry only 7 kg (15 lb) of gear.
Exclusive Access: Visit spectacular ancient ruins.
Panoramic Trains: Return by a panoramic train
Certified Guides: In-depth knowledge of Inca history.
Gourmet Food: Fresh Peruvian dishes and options for everyone.
Private Transportation: Comfortable travel from Cusco to starting point.
Here is a detailed itinerary of our 4-day Inca Trail to Machu Picchu. Each day is designed for you to enjoy to the fullest. From the first day, when we start trekking at Kilometer 82, to the finale, when we arrive at the majestic citadel of Machu Picchu, see below:
The Inca Trail to Machu Picchu starts when we pick you up from your hotel or hostel (5:30am approx.). We will go in our transport for an hour and a half to Ollantaytambo where we will make a stop for breakfast (not included in the price of the tour). After making a stop we will continue our trip by car to km 82, where the respective entrance controls to the Inca Trail are carried out. In this same place you must present your tickets along with your passport or identity document with which you made your reservation.
The Inca Trail begins at an altitude of 2,720 meters above sea level. Once we have passed the respective controls at the checkpoint, we will cross a hanging bridge over the Vilcanota River. The first day is easy and is considered the warm-up day as the terrain is relatively flat. This day we will have wonderful views of the Inca fortress Huillca Raccay, the incredible archaeological site of Llactapata (officially called “Patallacta”), the Urubamba mountain range that divides the jungle with the Andes, and the beautiful snowy W’akay Willca 5,860m. also known as the Veronica. Our first camp will be in Ayapata, which is located 60 minutes walk from the small town of Wayllabamba, at an altitude of 3,300m.
Included
14 km / 8.7 mi
Easy / Beginner
6 Hours
10,826 ft
Campsite
Yes
This day is considered the most difficult and at the same time most gratifying of all the Inca Trail 4 Days, we will enjoy appreciating beautiful Andean landscapes and natural beauty. The day begins at 5:00 a.m. and after a good breakfast, we will begin the ascent for 4 hours until the highest point of the road, the Abra de Huarmihuañusca or “Paso de la Mujer Muerta” with a height of 4.200m. During the walk we will be able to appreciate that the vegetation is varied with native plants and trees like the “Polilepys” or “Q’ueuña”, which grow in the cloud forest at an altitude of 3,650m. After touring the 4 hours of ascent we will celebrate together having reached the highest point.
At this point we will do and rest and then we will descend for an hour and a half to the second point where we will have lunch (Pacamayo at 3.550m). After lunch we will start with the last part of the climb for 2 hours towards the Runkuraqay pass at an altitude of 3900m. Once in the pass and after a rest we will continue the descent for 1 hour and a half until we reach our camp Cachicocha (3600m).
Included
16 km / 10 miles
Easy / Beginner
10 Hours
13,829 ft
Campsite
On the third day we will only have 5 hours of walking approx. we will arrive at Wiñay Wayna which means: “Forever Young” to an Inca archaeological site that bears the same name as the camps; this archaeological site is 10 minutes from the third camp. This day we will start with a gentle moderate walk until we reach Phuyupatamarca which will be the third highest point on the road at an altitude of 3,680m. The views of the mountains, canyons and surroundings from this point are simply spectacular. After a brief rest we will visit the archaeological site of Phuyupatamarca, which means “City of Clouds”. The Inca site Phuyupatamarca is just a few minutes walk from the third pass. After visiting this site, we will continue walking through cloud forest until we reach the impressive Inca agricultural site of Intipata, then we will arrive at our camp Wiñay Wayna, at 2,680m.
Included
10 km / 6.2 miles
Challenging / Advanced
5 Hours
11,811 ft
Campsite
We will start the day at 3:30am, after a very light breakfast we will go to the last checkpoint of the Inca Trail which is 10 minutes from the camp until 5.30am, after passing through this checkpoint we will go for 1 hour towards Inti Punku or “Puerta del Sol” where we will witness the arrival of the sun to Machu Picchu. This is the same place where you will have the first opportunity to admire Machu Picchu after 3 intense days of walking. After admiring the view of Machu Picchu from the door of the sun, we will walk for the last part of the tour to the place where you can take the classic photo of this ancient city. Finally, we enter Machu Picchu! Once in this modern wonder of the world, you will have a 2 hour guided tour by your own guide. After your guided tour, you will have some free time for you to continue exploring the citadel.
Once you have finished exploring the citadel you will have to take a bus that will take you to the town of Aguas Calientes. Here you will meet your guide so that you can share the last lunch (optional and not included in the price of the tour) and he can give you your return train tickets to Ollantaytambo, then you will be transferred from Ollantaytambo by car back to Cusco.
Included
6 km / 3.7 miles
Easy / Beginner
2-3 Hours
8,923 ft
Yes
Here is a detailed list of everything you will need for your Inca Trail trek to Machu Picchu. Be sure to pack only the essentials, as weight is limited, but don’t forget any important items for a comfortable and safe experience.
IMPORTANT: The quotas for the Inca Trail are issued by the Peruvian government through DRC (Regional Direction of Culture), remember that they are only 500 quotas per day and for all travel agencies of it approx. 180 are tourists the rest are support staff as guides, cooks and porters, so we recommend booking many months in advance.
ATTENTION: If there are no places available, you can opt for our Inca Trail excursion 2 days 1 night that there are still places and we have daily departures or check our alternative and traditional Tours for which we do have places.
The Inca Trail is a historic trekking route that connects Cusco with Machu Picchu in 4 days. It is one of the most famous trekking routes in the world, it includes ancient Inca cities, breathtaking mountain scenery and beautiful ecosystems.
The classic Inca Trail has a duration of 4 days. However, there are also short version of 2-day hikeor alternative routes such as the Salkantay or Lares trek.
The Inca Trail is considered of moderate to high difficulty, as the terrain is mountainous and ascends up to 4,200 m (13,780 ft). It requires good physical condition, but with proper preparation, most people can complete it.
Yes, the Inca Trail is a strictly regulated route, and an official permit is required to do the Inca Trail. Only 500 permits are given out per day, so it is recommended to book in advance.
The best time to hike the Inca Trail is during the dry season, which runs from April to October. The most popular months are June, July and August, consider during this time it is also the high season.
You will need adequate hiking gear, such as hiking boots, and layered clothing, a small backpack, water and sun protection. In addition, we provide you with tents and food.
Although the Inca Trail is demanding, with proper preparation and previous aclimatation, many people in moderate physical condition can complete the trek.
The classic Inca Trail hike to Machcu Picchuis approximately 42 km (26 miles) long, which is covered in 4 days.
Along the trail, you will find proper restrooms. However, there are not many facilities available, so it is important to be prepared for the trek.
Altitude sickness can affect some people on the Inca Trail. It is advisable to descend if the symptoms are severe, first consult a guide if you need to return.
Yes, it is mandatory to carry your original passport during the trek, since the permits for the Inca Trail are associated with your identity document.
We provide full meals during the trek, including vegetarian and vegan options. If you have any special dietary preferences, let us know when booking.
Not, since all permits must be arranged through authorized tour operators. Inca Trail departures are only available with a guide and a group of at least 2 people.
Accommodation during the Inca Trail is in campsites. We provide comfortable tents equipped for trekking, where you will spend the night og each day.
To reduce the risk of altitude sickness, we recommend to stay in the Sacred Valley or in Cusco at least 2 days in advance to acclimatize.
In Cusco or the Sacred Valley, you can explore nearby archaeological sites, such as Sacsayhuaman, Qorikancha or Ollantaytambo, Moray and Pisac. The Ollantaytambo town is also the ideal place to acclimatize before trekking.
The Inca Trail, with Machu Picchu as its final destination, is the most popular and well-known route among tourists. The walk has a total length of approximately 43 kilometers and takes 4 days, including a day visit to the Machu Picchu Archaeological Park.
The nature that surrounds it is wonderful, with breathtaking views of snow-covered mountains, the walk through the jungle with its amazing archaeological remains, is an unforgettable experience.
It is undoubtedly one of the most frequented excursions by those who seek adventure when visiting Peru, its spectacular landscapes of the Andes chain, shows a great mixture of jungle and sierra that you will enjoy from beginning to end. No other side of the planet has a natural circuit that leads to a natural world with constantly changing ecological floors adorned with imposing snow-capped mountains, rivers and a great fauna and flora. To all these natural wonders are added Incan constructions that are worth visiting, the architectural art harmonizes perfectly with the natural environment.
The Inca Trail is located near the small town of Ollantaytambo in the Sacred Valley, in southern Peru, about 82 km (51 miles) from Cusco, the nearest city. From Ollantaytambo, we drive to kilometer 82 of the railway, where the trek officially begins.
The Hike to Machu Picchu has a total distance of 43 kilometers (26.7 miles). Throughout the hike, travelers will face steep sections, narrow trails, different elevations and unpredictable weather ranging from warm to cold temperatures. The trek extends over 4 days from kilometer 82 at Piscakucho.
One of the main challenges on the Inca Trail is the altitude. As you ascend the trail, you will experience several changes in elevation that could affect your performance, especially if you are not acclimatized. Here are the key elevation details:
Start of the Inca Trail (Kilometer 82): 2,700 meters (8,858 feet) above sea level.
Warmiwañusca Pass (highest altitude): 4,200 meters (13,779 feet) above sea level.
Machu Picchu: 2,430 meters (7,970 feet) above sea level.
NOTE: It is important to acclimatize to the altitude before starting the hike to Machu Picchu to avoid altitude sickness. It is recommended to spend at least a couple of days in Cusco or in the Sacred Valley to gradually adapt to the altitude conditions.
The weather on the Inca Trail is quite variable depending on the altitude and the time of year. In general, the most popular trekking season is from May to September, which coincides with the dry season. During these months, temperatures are more pleasant, with warm days and cool nights.
In the daytime, temperatures can range from 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F) in the lower sections of the trail. At night, temperatures can drop to 0°C or even lower (32°F or colder), especially at higher elevations such as Warmiwañusca Pass on the second day of the trek. During the rainy season (October to April), you are more likely to experience rain, which can make hking more difficult.
The Inca Trail to Machu Picchu is generally completed in 4 days. During this time, travelers pass through different sections of the trail, each with its own level of difficulty. Below, we explain how Machu Picchu Hike 4 Days is distributed.
Hikers pass through a wide variety of ecosystems along the Inca Trail, from cloud forests to high mountain areas, offering an impressive diversity of flora and fauna.
Flora: Along the way, the trail is surrounded by orchids, ferns, eucalyptus trees, and various species of medicinal plants. In the cloud forest, cypress and bamboo trees can be found.
Fauna: Visitors can see animals such as llamas, alpacas, hummingbirds, and several species of birds, such as the Andean condor. It is also common to see small rodents, lizards, and insects, such as colorful butterflies.
Although the Inca Trail is the best known , there are other alternative routes such as the Salkantay Trek, Lares Trek, Huchuyqosqo, Vilcabamba, Choquequirao Trek and the Short version of the Inca Trail, which also lead to Machu Picchu. These routes can be an interesting option for those who wish to avoid the crowds or enjoy a longer experience in nature.
Hikers will have the opportunity to explore several Inca ruins along the way. Some of the most outstanding are:
Sayacmarca: An ancient Inca fortress located at about 3,600 meters (11,811 feet). The site consists of well-preserved stone structures and offers spectacular views of the surrounding valley.
Phuyupatamarca: Known as the “Village in the Clouds,” this archaeological site is at over 3,600 meters (11,811 feet) and offers impressive views of the Andes mountain range.
Wiñay Wayna: One of the most spectacular sites on the Inca Trail, with beautiful terraces and temples. This place stands out for its natural beauty and its great historical importance.
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