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Inca Trail 4 Days to Machu Picchu

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4 Days | Starting from $ 100
Price From
$ USD 100.00
Duration
4 Days
Group Size
Min 2 Persons
Physical Level
Easy
Style
Inca Trail 4 Days to Machu Picchu

Inca Trail 4 Days to Machu Picchu

4 Days from $ USD 100.00

Machu Picchu

The renowned four-day Inca Trail is a must-do hike in Peru, celebrated not only within the country but also recognized worldwide. This extraordinary trail takes you on a captivating journey to the fabled lost city of the Incas. Spanning a distance of 45km, this ancient Inca path was constructed over 500 years ago by the Inca Empire with the purpose of facilitating their conquest of the Peruvian Amazon region. Along the Inca Trail, you will have the opportunity to explore various smaller archaeological sites, such as Runcuracay, Phuyupatamarca, Wiñayhuayna, and many more.

The trail will lead you through diverse altitudes and environments, each adorned with well-preserved Inca paths and grand staircases. As you traverse these awe-inspiring landscapes, you will marvel at the remarkable architectural prowess of the Incas, who constructed such monumental structures high in the mountains, seemingly touching the clouds.

To ensure a successful and memorable journey to the citadel of Machu Picchu, we provide everything you need. Our team comprises experienced guides, proficient in leading you safely through the Inca Trail to the lost city of the Incas. The dedicated cooks and porters also play a vital role throughout the four-day hike, setting up camps, preparing delicious meals, and carrying essential equipment. We strive to deliver the highest quality service, ensuring your comfort and satisfaction throughout all four days of this remarkable adventure.

Inca Trail 4 Days to Machu Picchu
Inca Trail 4 Days to Machu Picchu
Inca Trail 4 Days to Machu Picchu
Inca Trail 4 Days to Machu Picchu
Inca Trail 4 Days to Machu Picchu
Inca Trail 4 Days to Machu Picchu
Inca Trail 4 Days to Machu Picchu
Inca Trail 4 Days to Machu Picchu
Inca Trail 4 Days to Machu Picchu
Inca Trail 4 Days to Machu Picchu

Trip Details

  • Tour type: Hiking, camping, adventure, history, and culture.
  • Difficulty: Moderate
  • Starting Altitude: 2720 m / 8920 ft
  • Maximum Altitude: 4200m / 13,780 ft (día 2)
  • Distance Traveled: 45 km /28 miles
  • Longest day: Day 2, 16 km / 10 miles
  • Departures: Subject to availability

DAY
1

Cusco - Piscacucho - Wayllabamba

Embarking on this extraordinary adventure, we will pick you up from your hotel between 6 and 6:30 am, starting our day with an early departure. Our journey begins with a scenic drive to the town of Ollantaytambo, where you will have the opportunity to enjoy a delicious breakfast. Continuing our drive for approximately one more hour, we will reach Km 82 (Piscacucho), the starting point of this grand expedition. Here, we will pass through a control point for the Inca Trail, where you can obtain a special stamp in your passport as a memento.

From this point, we will hike for 2 hours until we reach Mesccay, where we can take a break and, if you wish, sample some local corn beer known as Chicha. Afterward, we will continue our trek to Llactapata, an archaeological site where our knowledgeable guide will provide insights and exploration opportunities. Following that, we will walk for an additional 45 minutes to a picturesque spot where we will enjoy a comforting and delightful meal. After lunch, we will make our way to Wayllabamba, our first campsite situated at an elevation of 3000 meters. This part of the hike typically takes about 2 hours. Upon arrival, our dedicated porters and cooks will have everything prepared for you. As night falls, you can unwind with a warm cup of tea and savor a well-deserved dinner at the campsite.

(8 KM, 4 HOURS OF HIKING)

Note: To ensure a smooth early morning pickup, it is recommended to book a hotel in the historical city center of Cusco. Most Airbnbs may not have easily identifiable names or addresses and could be located far from the city center. Alternatively, we can arrange a specific meeting point for your convenience.

DAY
2

Wayllabamba - Warmiwañusca - Pacaymayo

After a nourishing breakfast prepared by our skilled cooks, we will embark on the most challenging segment of our adventure: the hike to the highest point of the Inca Trail, Warmiwañusca, located at an elevation of 4212 meters above sea level. This uphill journey will take approximately 5 hours (covering 9 km), with an elevation gain of 1212 meters. As we ascend, we will traverse a beautiful Inca staircase that leads us to the summit of Warmiwañusca, also known as “Dead Woman’s Pass.” At this point, you will experience an incredible sense of accomplishment, reaching the highest point of the Inca Trail and enjoying a panoramic view of the surrounding area. From here, you can admire the diverse microclimates that characterize the region, as well as the majestic Sacred Valley of the Incas.

Afterward, we will begin our descent towards Pacaymayo, where our well-deserved lunch awaits. The descent involves approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes of walking down Inca staircases. We will set up our camp at Pacaymayo, where we will spend the night.

(Note: The information in the ** was an inquiry from the user and does not require rewriting.)

DAY
3

Pacaymayo - Puyupatamarka - Wiñayhuayna

Prepare to be captivated by the beauty of this day as we explore numerous archaeological sites along the Inca Trail, witnessing the breathtaking transformation of the landscape from misty mountain forests to lush jungle. This section of the trail boasts exceptionally well-preserved stretches of the original Inca paths.

After a delightful breakfast (around 5:30 AM), we will embark on our first destination, the archaeological site of Runcurakay (3750 m), which is a 45-minute uphill hike from our campsite. Runcurakay is an impressive Inca complex consisting of watchtowers strategically positioned for a commanding view of the Sacred Valley. From there, we will continue to the Runcurakay pass (3900 m), where our guide will provide a brief explanation of Inca culture. Following the pass, we will descend for 1 hour and 30 minutes to reach the second archaeological site, Sayacmarka. Sayacmarka is renowned for its challenging ascent and steep staircases. After an additional 30 minutes of walking, we will arrive at Chaquicocha, where a satisfying lunch will be awaiting us.

Once we’ve replenished our energy, we will embark on a 2-hour and 30-minute hike to Puyupatamarca (“The Town in the Clouds”) at an elevation of 3750 m. Here, we will explore the intriguing ruins before commencing our final walk of the day—a descent along Inca stairs for 3 hours, leading us to our campsite at Wiñayhuayna (“Forever Young”). At Wiñayhuayna, we will enjoy a rejuvenating tea and a special dinner, bidding farewell to our dedicated porters.

(15 KM, APPROX. 8 HOURS OF HIKING)

DAY
4

Wiñay Huayna - Machu Picchu - Cusco

After three challenging days of trekking, the time has come to behold one of the Seven Wonders of the Modern World. We will rise before dawn (around 3:30 AM) to prepare our belongings and enjoy breakfast before embarking on the final stretch of our journey. We will descend to the last checkpoint of the Inca Trail and continue for 2 more hours toward the Inti Punku (The Sun Gate), following incredible paths carved into the hillside amidst dense vegetation-clad rocky mountains. Upon reaching the Sun Gate, a breathtaking view of Machu Picchu and Wayna Picchu mountain will greet us.

From there, we will descend for 40 minutes, passing by compounds that once served as access points and ritual stops for the Incas before entering the citadel. Finally, we will arrive at Machu Picchu, where we will embark on a 2-hour guided tour. This immersive experience will allow you to explore the main sites such as Intihuatana, The Sacred Plaza, The Temple of the Sun, and The Temple of the Condor, while delving deeper into the rich history of this hidden architectural marvel. Following the guided tour, you will have a couple of hours to further explore Machu Picchu at your leisure and truly absorb the unique atmosphere of the Inca citadel.

If you were fortunate enough to secure an entry to Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain, you will have the opportunity to ascend one of these peaks. Please note that availability is limited by the government and the Ministry of Culture. Climbing Huayna Picchu takes approximately 2 hours, while Machu Picchu Mountain requires around 3 hours. The duration of your stay at Machu Picchu will depend on whether or not

Included

  • Entrance ticket to Machu Picchu
  • Entrance ticket for the Inca Trail
  • Informational talk provided by your guide at your hotel, one night before the hike
  • Pickup from your hotel and transportation from Cusco to Ollantaytambo
  • Professional bilingual guide
  • Guided tour of Machu Picchu
  • Meals: 3 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 3 dinners (buffet style)
  • Bus ticket from Machu Picchu to Aguas Calientes
  • 3 nights camping
  • 1 tent for 2 people plus sleeping pads
  • Cooks and cooking equipment
  • Vegetarian or Vegan food available upon prior request for no additional charge
  • First aid kit and oxygen tank
  • Train ticket from Aguas Calientes – Ollantaytambo at 18:20 (or earlier)
  • Transportation from Ollantaytambo to Cusco

No Included

  • Breakfast on the first day
  • Lunch on the last day. Can eat out in Aguas Calientes (10-30 soles)
  • Sleeping bag ($15 for the duration of the hike)
  • Walking sticks, recommended for this route ($15 to rent a pair)
  • Travel insurance
  • Entrance to Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu mountains ($65)
  • costs and tips (optional)
  • Porter services. You must carry your own belongings included your sleeping bag if you choose not to rent a porter’s services (If you desire to rent them the cost is $70 for 7kg for 4 days).

What to Bring

  • Original passport
  • Students: student ID if you wish to obtain the discounted entrance ticket to Machu Picchu
  • Light backpack
  • Walking sticks: recommended for those with knee or ankle problems or hikers used to using them. If you don’t have one, you can rent a pair from us for $15 for the whole hike.
  • Sleeping bag rated to at least -5 celcius. If you do not have own, you can rent one from us for $15 for the duration of the hike.
  • Wool hat/beanie
  • Scarf
  • Hat for the sun
  • Gloves
  • 3 – 4 shirts (preferably long sleeved)
  • 2 – 3 pairs of long trousers (leggings are also appropriate)
  • Shorts
  • Walking shoes
  • 2 – 3 pairs of wool socks
  • A rain jacket is important, especially in the rainy season (you can also buy a rain poncho)
  • 1 small towel
  • Sun glasses
  • Sun block
  • A water bottle or canteen
  • Tooth brush and other personal items
  • Toilet paper
  • Insect repellent
  • Sandals or flip flops
  • Bathing suit
  • If you have thermal clothing, you can bring it (you would use it at least the first night, when at 3000 m).
  • Snacks, such as: chocolate, granola bars, sweets, dried fruits, energy bars, etc.
  • Extra cash in soles

Optional Services

Pricing List

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Thank you for your interest in having an adventure travel experience in Peru operated by South Winds Peru. Please take a moment to complete our short form so that one of our friendly adventure consultants can provide you with all the information for the best trip of your life in Peru.

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