Classic 4 day Inca Trail to Machu Picchu

CUSCO - OLLANTAYTAMBO - KM 82- WAYLLABAMBA,-WARMIHUAÑUSCA PASS-WIÑAYHUAYNA- MACHU PICCHU- CUSCO

Overview

The tour of the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu is one of the most unforgettable experiences; full of impressive landscapes, and cultural and historical wealth that will allow you to follow in the footsteps of the ancient Incas, find wonderful places that will leave you breathless until you immerse yourself in the enigmatic city of Machu Picchu.

During this majestic tour of the Inca Trail 4 days, you will visit various Inca ruins, which are faithful testimony of the ancient civilization that inhabited this region. Among the most prominent are Llactapata, Willcaraqay, Wayllabamba, Runkuracay, Phuyupatamarca, Sayacmarca, Intipata, Puerta del Sol and Wiñay Wayna; each one has its architectural charm capable of telling great stories.

And as you progress along the trail, the beautiful enchanted (cloud) forests stand in the way, full of exuberant and diverse vegetation, they are home to a large number of endemic flora and fauna, such as orchids, bromeliads, colorful birds, and various species of butterflies.

Another of the most interesting elements of this Classic Inca trail 4 days are precisely the Inca bridges and Inca trails, which are found along the ravines. It is a series of Inca trail networks, built with ancient techniques, which offer impressive views, as well as an additional challenge for those who thirst for adventure.

This is accompanied by strategically placed viewpoints, which provide beautiful panoramic views of the innate beauty of this region. Which will not only serve you to rest but also capture a good image and appreciate the greatness of the Peruvian Andes.

In addition, at each step, you will have the possibility to interact with the local communities, which still preserve their culture and ancestral history. There you can lose yourself in several of its picturesque towns, such as Ollantaytambo and Huayllabamba, where you will better understand their traditions, and gastronomy and appreciate their crafts.

This, until reaching one of the most exciting moments on the way: the incomparable Puerta del Sol (entrance to Machu Picchu). In this position you will have the most impressive view of the citadel and its surroundings, officially welcoming you to Machu Picchu.

As you can see, in this 4-day trip along the Inca trail you will immerse yourself in an adventure full of impressive landscapes and some archaeological ruins that will help you create a deep bond with this ancient culture.

So get ready to have the experience of your life!

CLASSIC INCA TRAIL 4 DAYS ITINERARY

DAY 1: Cusco- km 82 – huayllabamba – ayapata

DAY 2: Ayapata – warmihuñusca – sayaqmarca – chaquicocha

DAY 3: Chaquicocha- wiñayhuayna

DAY 4: Wiñayhuayna – machu picchu – aguas calientes – cusco

INCA TRAIL 4 DAYS HIGHLIGHTS

Inca Trail: You will travel the most preserved Inca trail in South America for 4 days to Machu Picchu
Incredible views: It has impressive views of snow-capped peaks and mountains and varied flora and fauna since for 4 days you will travel through different microclimates
Inca sites: You will visit archaeological centers along the Inca trail and you will learn more about Inca history
inti punku: known as Sun Gate, the fourth day arrives and has the first impressive view of Machu Picchu
Support staff: We have highly qualified staff and at the same time they will be in charge of making this experience a reality.
Peruvian Gastronomy: You will taste typical dishes such as lomo saltado and ceviche and different soups in this 4-day tour
Challenging path: You have to prepare yourself physically before doing this trail since the highest point is 4200 masl, With a good acclimatization of 2 days and a reasonable physical condition you will not have problems

OUR PROMISE

Personalized

Your personal travel advisor will build a tailored itinerary.

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Experience all tours in private, unless otherwise indicated.

Local Knowledge

Knowledgeable, professional, and passionate staff and guides.

In trip support

24/7 emergency assistance from English-speaking staff.

Tour Price 4 Days Tour 3 Nights

Inca Trail to Machu Picchu 4 Day Hike Classic 4 day Inca Trail to Machu Picchu

Price From

^$ 720 per Person

Group SizeUP TO 10

Activity LevelCHALLENGING

Trip StylesHIKING

Lodging TypeCAMPS

Trip Itinerary

DAY 1: CUSCO – PISCACUCHO (KM 82) – WAYLLABAMBA- AYAPATA

The starting point of this incredible trip begins between 5:30 and 6:00 am to arrive in Ollantaytambo and have breakfast in a restaurant (not included) and continue to kilometer 82 (Piskacucho), located on the outskirts of Cusco. From there, you will walk along the banks of the Urubamba River, surrounded by the most incredible mountain landscapes for approximately 2 hours to the Llactapata archaeological center, where you will make a stop to explain about this place. Then continue walking to the town of Huaybamba to have lunch.

During this first day, you will marvel at the ruins of Ollantaytambo and its vibrant agricultural terraces; Finally, you will camp in Ayapata (located at 3,300 meters above sea level), where you will enjoy a restful night, thanks to the serenity that nature provides.

During this day you will be able to immerse yourself in the Inca culture, get acquainted with the natural and archaeological beauty, and experience first-hand the human warmth of the local people.

Total hiking distance: 8.7 miles / 14 km (6-7 hours).
Campsite altitude: 3300 meters (high) above sea level
Considered: Moderate day (getting used to the Inca Trail)
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner included
Accommodation: Camping in tents
Weather: Warm and windy

DAY 2: HUAYLLABAMBA - INCA TRAIL HIGHEST POINT – PACAYMAYO- CHAQUICOCHA

Day 2 has arrived and we assure you that it will be perfect to have a challenging but highly rewarding experience. This is the journey from Wayllabamba crossing the Paso de la Mujer Muerta (Pacaymayo) to Chaquicocha where we will start at 6:00 am after trying a nutritious breakfast.

Leaving the Ayapata camp behind, you will become the greatest spectator of hilarious mountainous landscapes. You will come across winding valleys, over the hills, which will give you the best view of the high peaks of the Vilcabamba mountain range; and, if the weather allows it, you will be able to observe the snow-capped peaks in the distance.

However, this peculiar mouth-opener will lead you up the steep and challenging ascent of the Paso de la Mujer Muerta (also known as the Paso de Warmihuañusca). From this path you will reach an altitude of 4,200 meters, being the highest point of the entire Inca trail 4 days. And when you reach the summit, you will enjoy extraordinary panoramic views that will leave you speechless.

When you recover your sanity and your breath, the descent of the Paso de la Mujer Muerta will take you directly to the Runcuraccay Pass (at 3,950 m asl); where you can enjoy the typical beauty of the Andean landscapes, full of mountains, valleys and meandering rivers.

Finally, you will arrive at Chaquicocha; which will become your refuge to have a second night full of beauty and tranquility. Just lie down, recharge your energies, and get ready to continue your adventure to Machu Picchu on day 3!

Total hiking distance: 8.2 miles/16km (8-9 hours).
Campsite altitude: 3600 meters (high) above sea level
Considered: Top day (you will have survived the two highest passes)
Area: Andes and Cloud Forest
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner included
Accommodation: Camping in tents.
Weather: Cold and rainy

DAY 3: CHAQUIQOCHA – PHUYUPATAMARCA-WIÑAYWAYNA

On the stretch leading from Chaquiccocha to Wiñaywayna, travelers will find a combination of spectacular natural scenery, remnants of archaeological wonders, and a variety of exotic flora and fauna.

As you descend into the Kusichaca River valley, you will have before you breathtaking views of snow-capped mountains, clear rivers, and deafening waterfalls.

As you advance, the trail will lead you into a thick cloud forest, where you will have the opportunity to experience the rich biodiversity of the place, coming across a variety of mammals and birds, such as the quetzal, the toucan, and the hummingbird.

Halfway, you will find the ruins of Wiñaywayna (which means “always young” in Quechua); one of the most impressive and well-preserved archaeological sites, composed of agricultural terraces, water sources, and some dwellings. Finally, for this day 3, we will settle into camp and rest for the “big day”.

Total hiking distance: 2 miles/10km (5 hours)
Campsite altitude: 2600 meters (high) above sea level
Considered: beautiful Inca sites
Area: Andes and Cloud Forest
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner included
Accommodation: Camping in tents.
Weather: Cold and worm

DAY 4: MACHU PICCHU – CUSCO

Day 4 has arrived and begins just before sunrise, around 4:00 am, to walk to the Inti Punku, known as the Sun Gate. From this privileged viewpoint, you will witness one of the most exciting spectacles: the majestic Machu Picchu at sunrise.
After taking the time to breathe the purity and absorb the magic energy of the sun’s rays, you will descend to the citadel for 1 hour, and upon arrival, you can walk for 2 hours through its cobblestone streets, terraces, and sacred temples, along with our guide, who will be telling the group the fascinating stories and mysteries that surround this magical place.
At the end of the 2-hour tour of Machu Picchu, we will return to Aguas Calientes to have lunch at a local restaurant and take a train to Ollantaytambo for a two-hour trip. Once there our private transportation will pick you up to take you to Cusco.

• Considered: The most exciting and magical day
• Area: High Cloud and Subtropical Forest
• Weather: Hot and very humid (bring lots of water)
• Meals: Breakfast and lunch, included
• Bus: Tickets for the bus from Machu Picchu to Aguas Calientes included
• Train: Train tickets from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo included; train at 14:30 or 14:55
• Transfer: From Ollantaytambo to Cusco included 1.5-2 hours car ride
• Back in Cusco: You will be back in Cusco around 6:30 pm

Tour Inclusions

What’s Included For Inca trail to Machu Picchu hike days?

Informative Meeting: One day before the 4-day Inca trail you will be able to know everything about how the route will be and you will also be given your daffos and hiking poles and pay the last balances
Transportation: It will take you to km 82 where the tour begins and after finishing to your hotel in Cusco or also if you are in the Sacred Valley of the Incas
Tickets: Covers the entrance to the Inca Trail and Machu Picchu
Porters: A team of porters will carry most of your gear, leaving you with only a backpack to carry. They will carry daffol bags with 7 kilos of each hiker and they will set up their tents, they will cook their meals and will carry all the camping equipment.
Water: We will provide you with water for the tour
Snacks: We will give you some sweets and fruits on the tour
Professional Guide: A licensed and experienced guide will accompany you throughout the trek, providing information on the history and culture of the Inca civilization. Our guides are fluent in English, Spanish, and Quechua.
hiking sticks black diamond
Sleeping bag
Meals: All meals are included in the trek, from breakfast on the first day to lunch on the last day. The food is usually sufficient and nutritious, with plenty of carbohydrates to sustain you during long walks.
04 breakfasts
04 lunches
03 dinners
Camping equipment: For 03 nights you will have a tent and mat. 01 Tent for every 02 people ( tents shared only by 2. + 01 Sleeping Mat for each participant: We put at your disposal Thermarest inflatable mattresses that guarantee a warm and comfortable night’s rest in the trail camps.
Guided visit to Machu Picchu.
Bus ticket: From Machu Picchu to the town of Aguas Calientes
Train tickets: Expedition or Voyager train ticket from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo at 2:30 p.m. or 2:55 p.m. to be back in Cusco around 7:00 a.m.
Safety equipment: Oxygen and first aid kits are provided in case of emergencies.
Private portable toilets
Vegetarian Meal: Available upon request at no extra charge

What is not included in the trek

first breakfast
last lunch
Water first day for your bottles
gratuity for support staff

Starting at

_$ 720 _USD

Per person (Group service)

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classic inca trail to machu picchu 4 days

Trip Info

What to Pack

Prices Tour

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Additional Information

PACKING LIST TO 4-DAY INCA TRAIL

If you plan to do the Inca Trail, you will need to pack accordingly for the 4-day trek. Here are some essentials you should consider bringing

CLOTHES:

Comfortable walking shoes/boots
Moisture-wicking hiking socks.
quick dry pants
light t-shirts
Long-sleeve shirt
fleece jacket or sweater
raincoat and pants
hat or cap
Gloves

TREKKING EQUIPMENT:

Small backpacks from 20 to 30 liters
Hiking poles, if you don’t have you can rent them at the company
Headlamp or flashlight with extra batteries
sunscreen
Insect repellent
Water bottle or hydration system
Snacks (energy bars, trail mix, etc.)
Personal hygiene items (toothbrush, toothpaste, wet wipes, etc.)

MISCELLANEOUS:

Passport and necessary documents.
Original student card if you request the student price
Cash to tip your guides and porters
Camera or phone with a good camera to capture memories
Portable charger for electronic devices
light towel
It is important to note that there are strict regulations on what you can bring on the Inca Trail, so be sure to check with your tour operator or guide to make sure you are not bringing any prohibited items. You’ll likely have porters carrying most of your gear, so pack everything in a durable, waterproof duffel bag or bag.

We put at your disposal a canvas bag to pack 7 kilos of your personal things. The porter will carry the duffel bags throughout the tour.

Inca Trail to Machu Picchu 4 Days – 3 Nights

Government Regulations: The Peruvian government controls visitor numbers, permit prices, and porter and guide salaries for the Inca Trail. Tour operators must adhere to these regulations to ensure fair permit distribution and fees. Our Inca Trail 4-day prices are reasonable and sufficient to cover operational costs.

Prices: Inca Trail 4 Days to Machu Picchu – All-Inclusive Door-to-Door Service

Group Service – Season 2023

Adult: $650 per person
Student: $597 per person

Additional Options to Enhance Your Inca Trail Experience:

Huayna Picchu Mountain: $65 – Check availability here: https://reservas.machupicchu.gob.pe/inicio
Machu Picchu Mountain: $65 – Check availability here: https://reservas.machupicchu.gob.pe/inicio
Upgrade to Vistadome Train (panoramic): $35

4-DAY INCA TRAIL FAQS

Here are some frequently asked questions (FAQs) about the 4 day Inka Trail:

What is the best time to hike the Inca Trail?

The peak season is from May to mid-November, but the path is closed during the wet season (February). Since, in these months, the weather is more stable and there is less chance of heavy rains

How long does the hike take?

The 4-day hike covers a distance of 26 miles (42 km) and takes approximately 6-8 hours of hiking per day.

What are the altitude sickness concerns?

The highest point on the trail is 13,779 feet (4,200 meters)

Is it necessary to have hiking experience to do the Inca Trail?

No previous hiking experience is required, but it is advisable to have a good level of physical condition since the 4-day Inca Trail trek involves hiking steep terrain that is demanding.

How much weight should be carried during the Inca trek?

It is recommended to carry only the essentials and keep the weight of the backpack as light as possible. The average recommended weight is around 5 to 7 kilograms.

How are the bathrooms on the Inca Trail?

They are very rustic, you will have to sit down as if you were exercising because there are no bowls, it will be a new experience and you will have to bring toilet paper, only in Machu Picchu there are decent toilets and the cost is 2 soles

What is the weather like on the Inca Trail?

It starts at 2800 meters above sea level and goes up to 4200 meters above sea level and ends at 2000 meters above sea level, you have to bring clothes for the heat and cold and even some thermal clothes.

What is the highest point of the Inca Trail?

The highest point is the place called Warmiwañusca with an altitude of 4200 meters above sea level and it is climbed on the second day

How difficult is the Inca Trail?

The Inca Trail is considered a challenging hike due to its length and high altitude.

What is the total length of the 4-day Inca trek?

The total trek is approximately 43 kilometers (26 miles) long.

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