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Cusco · Peru
Private Inca Trail To Machu Picchu 4 Days
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From $1,591.76 per person
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The Experience
What your day looks like
Follow the legendary four-day Inca Trail, the most iconic route to Machu Picchu. Walk at your own pace through stunning Andean landscapes and ancient archaeological sites, guided by experts who adapt the experience to you. The journey ends with Machu Picchu visit: sunrise at the Sun Gate (Circuit 1) and a guided exploration of Circuit 3.
Highlights
Why travelers choose this experience
- Visit Machu Picchu: Sunrise at Sun Gate via Circuit 1 and Circuit 3 guided tour
- Return in Style: Ride the Vistadome train with panoramic views
- Cozy Campsites: Sleep in spacious tents with warm bedding, private tent option available
- Meals on the Trail: Fresh, local dishes prepared daily by your expert chef
- Your trip helps fund social projects and supports families along the trail
Your Itinerary
Your day, step by step
Day 1
Cusco
Hiking. Day 1: Cusco - Km 82 - Llactapata - Ayapata Start the day early with a 4:30 a.m. pickup from Cusco (or a bit later from Urubamba or Ollantaytambo), followed by a stop in Ollantaytambo for breakfast and any last-minute needs. From there, we continue to KM 82—the official starting point of the Inca Trail. At the trailhead, you’ll meet your team of chefs and porters, check in at the control point, and begin a scenic three-hour hike through peaceful villages and lush valleys. Along the way, we’ll stop at Llactapata to explore the archaeological site of Willkaraqay and take in views of Patallacta. After another hour on the trail, we pause in Hatunchaca for a freshly prepared lunch. In the afternoon, continue with a two-hour ascent to Ayapata (3,300 m), arriving around 5 p.m. Your tent will be set up and waiting, along with a warm drink and a hearty dinner. Enjoy a restful night under the stars as you recharge for the day ahead. - Hiking Distance: 14 km / 8.7 mi - Duration: 6 hours - Campsite Altitude: 3,300 m / 10,826 ft - Highest Altitude: 3,300 m / 10,826 ft - Meals Included: Breakfast, Snacks, Lunch, - - - Tea Time, Dinner - Difficulty: Moderate
Day 2
Cusco
Hiking. Day 2: Ayapata – Warmiwañusca – Runkuraqay – Chaquicocha Wake up to a warm cup of coffee or coca tea at your tent, followed by a hearty breakfast to fuel the day ahead. Begin the four-hour climb to Dead Woman’s Pass (4,215 m), the highest point of the trek. At the summit, take a moment to catch your breath as your guide offers a traditional blessing to the sacred Apus. After taking in the sweeping views, descend for two hours to the Pacaymayo Alto Valley for lunch. Then, continue with a two-hour ascent to Runkuraqay Pass (4,000 m), followed by a final two-hour descent to Chaquicocha camp (3,600 m). Along the way, explore the fascinating Inca sites of Runkuraqay and Sayacmarca. As night falls, enjoy a stunning sunset and incredible stargazing before sitting down to a warm, well-deserved dinner under the Andean sky. - Hiking Distance: 16 km / 10 mi - Duration:
Day 3
Cusco
Hiking. Day 3: Chaquicocha – Phuyupatamarca – Wiñaywayna Leave the high peaks behind and descend into the Cloud Forest, enjoying dramatic views of the Vilcanota and Salkantay mountain ranges. You’ll arrive at Wiñaywayna (2,600 m / 8,530 ft)—your final campsite—by late afternoon. The morning begins with a 2-hour hike to Phuyupatamarca (“City in the Clouds,” 3,650 m / 11,972 ft), where you can rest and catch a distant glimpse of Machu Picchu Mountain. From there, the trail drops sharply into lush, green terrain. Along the way, visit Intipata (“Terraces of the Sun”) and soak in more stunning views before stopping for lunch. After lunch, enjoy a free afternoon to explore the Wiñaywayna ruins, snap photos of roaming llamas, or take a refreshing shower. - Hiking Distance: 10 km / 6.2 mi - Duration:
Day 4
Cusco
Hiking. Day 4: Wiñaywayna – Machu Picchu | The Grand Finale Begin your final day before sunrise, hiking the last stretch of the Inca Trail toward Intipunku (the iconic Sun Gate). If the weather is clear, you’ll witness the first light of day illuminating Machu Picchu, a powerful and unforgettable moment. From there, continue down to the site via Circuit 1 for sweeping panoramic views, then re-enter through Circuit 3 for a guided exploration of Machu Picchu’s most important temples and plazas. After the tour, take the bus to Aguas Calientes, where you’ll have some free time to relax or explore the town. In the afternoon, board the scenic Vistadome train for your return journey. Upon arrival, we’ll be waiting to drive you back to your hotel in Cusco. - Hiking Distance: 6 km / 3.7 mi - Duration:
Planning Details
Before you go
Included
Pre-departure safety briefing and complimentary luggage storage Entry tickets for the Inca Trail and Machu Picchu (includes double entry) Hotel pickup and drop-off with comfortable private transportation Return journey on the panoramic Vistadome train Personal porter service and a duffel bag to carry up to 7 kg (15 lb) of your belongings. Rain poncho and hand towels provided Expert team of certified mountain guides, chefs, and porters An additional guide for groups of 9 or more Emergency support with first-aid kit, oxygen, and satellite phones
Not Included
- Huayna Picchu Mountain Entrance tickets - Last day lunch in Aguas Calientes - Travel Insurance – Strongly recommended
What to Bring
Original Passport Rain gear, ponchos Sun Protection 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 a bit later.
Planning Notes
Hotel pickup offered: Yes Confirmation: Manual By Business
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