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Cusco · Peru
Classic Inca Trail To Machu Picchu 4 Days
Starting From
From $870.16 per person
Current Project Expedition rate
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Project Expedition
The Experience
What your day looks like
Embark on the iconic four-day Inca Trail, the most renowned route to Machu Picchu. Follow ancient stone paths through breathtaking mountain landscapes and centuries-old archaeological sites. Along the way, enjoy expert guidance, hearty meals prepared at camp, and restful nights in high-quality tents. Culminating in Machu Picchu: sunrise at the Sun Gate Circuit 1 and a guided Circuit 3 exploration.
Highlights
Why travelers choose this experience
- Experienced Operator with deep Inca Trail knowledge
- Machu Picchu entry: sunrise at Sun Gate via Circuit 1 and 3
- Panoramic train ride on the Vistadome train
- Exclusive Campsites: Stay close to nature in lesscrowded locations
- Personal Porter Service: Travel light while porters carry your gear
- Visit stunning archaeological at their most peaceful moments
Your Itinerary
Your day, step by step
Day 1
Urubamba
Hiking at Inca Trail. Day 1: Cusco – Km 82 – Hatunchaca – Ayapata We’ll rise before dawn for a 4:30 a.m. pickup in Cusco (later if you’re in Urubamba or Ollantaytambo), then drive to Ollantaytambo for breakfast and last-minute supplies before heading on to KM 82. At the trailhead, you’ll meet our chefs and porters, clear the checkpoint, and set off on a three-hour hike through quiet villages and green valleys. Along the way spot Andean birdlife before reaching Llactapata to explore Willkaraqay and enjoy views of Patallacta. After another hour’s trek, stop at Hatunchaca for a freshly prepared lunch. Then, we’ll trek two hours to Ayapata (3,300 m), arriving around 5 p.m. Your tent will be ready, with a hot drink and hearty dinner waiting .Sleep under the stars and recharge for tomorrow. - Distance: 14 km / 8.7 mi - Duration:
Day 2
Cusco
Hiking. Day 2: Ayapata – Dead Woman’s Pass – Chaquicocha Rise early to coffee or coca tea at your tent and a hearty breakfast, then tackle the four-hour ascent to Dead Woman’s Pass (4,215 m), the trek’s highest point. At the summit, pause as your guide offers a traditional blessing to the Apus. After soaking in the views, descend two hours to Pacaymayo Alto Valley for lunch, then ascend two hours to Runkuraqay Pass (4,000 m) before a final two-hour descent to Chaquicocha camp (3,600 m), exploring Runkuraqay and Sayacmarca en route. As evening falls, prepare for a breathtaking sunset and incredible stargazing before sharing a warm dinner under the Andean sky. - Hiking Distance: 16 km / 10 mi - Approx. Duration: 10 hours - Campsite Altitude: 3,600 m / 11,811 ft - Highest Altitude: 4,215 m / 13,829 ft - Meals: Breakfast, snacks, lunch, tea time, dinner - Difficulty: Challenging
Day 3
Cusco
Hiking. Day 3: Chaquicocha – Intipata – Wiñaywayna After the hardest day, unwind on a five-hour hike through lush cloud forests to panoramic views of Salkantay Mountain. Explore Phuyupatamarca (“City in the Clouds”) with vistas of the Urubamba River and Machu Picchu Mountain, then rest among the sun-soaked terraces of Intipata before continuing on. Arrive at the final campsite around 1:00 p.m. for lunch, then spend the afternoon relaxing, taking a shower, or mingling with the local llamas. Later, explore the Wiñaywayna ruins, and return to camp for tea, dinner, and a special farewell surprise. - Hiking Distance: 10 km / 6.2 mi - Duration:
Day 4
Cusco
Sightseeing at Machu Picchu. Day 4: Discover Machu Picchu – Cusco Wake up before dawn for the final stretch of your Inca Trail adventure. After passing the checkpoint, hike for about an hour to Intipunku (the Sun Gate). On clear mornings, watch the sun light up Machu Picchu, an unforgettable moment that truly honors the spirit of the Incas. Descend another hour to Machu Picchu’s (the panoramic Circuit 1, ) then re-enter through Circuit 3 to explore the citadel’s key temples on a guided tour. Afterward, take the bus down to Aguas Calientes for some free time to explore the town. Finally, board the panoramic Vistadome train, we’ll meet you when you arrive and drive you back to your hotel. - Hiking Distance: 6 km / 3.7 mi - Hiking Duration: 2–3 hours - Highest Altitude: 2,720 m / 8,923 ft - Meals: Breakfast - Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
Planning Details
Before you go
Included
Safety briefing the day before and free luggage storage Entrance ticket to Inca Trail and Machu Picchu (Circuit 1 & 3) Hotel pickup and drop-off and comfortable transportation Panoramic Vistadome train ride and bus from Machu Picchu to Aguas Calientes and Personal porter service for up to 7 kg of belongings Personal 7 kg duffle bag, sleeping pad, pillow, rain poncho, Inca Trail T-shirt, and hand towels Professional, highly trained mountain tour guides, chefs and porters. First-aid kit, oxygen supply and satellite phones All taxes and booking fees included
Not Included
- Sleeping bags, air mattresses, or trekking poles (available for rent) - Huayna Picchu entrance tickets (subject to advance booking) - Last day Lunch in Aguas Calientes town
What to Bring
Original Passport Rain gear, ponchos Sun protection Insect Repellent Warm layers (fleece / long-sleeved tops) Personal medication Camera, extra batteries Head torch Extra snacks, power bars, chocolate Extra money for souvenirs, drinks & tips (small change is useful for paying to use the villagers' toilets on the first day)
Meeting & Pickup
We’ll pick you up from your accommodation in the first day of the tour: - Cusco Historic Center: between 4:00 and 4:30 a.m. - Sacred Valley (Urubamba and Ollantaytambo) pickup will be scheduled slightly later.
Planning Notes
Hotel pickup offered: Yes Confirmation: Manual By Business
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