Inca Trail 4 Days To Machu Picchu

Your unforgettable Inca Trail to Machu Picchu adventure will begin with an early morning hotel pick-up in Cusco at 4:00 AM. A scenic drive through the breathtaking Sacred Valley of the Incas will take us to the charming town of Ollantaytambo. As we pass through this historic valley, we will witness stunning landscapes, ancient terraces, and traditional Andean villages that reflect the rich cultural heritage of the region.

Upon arrival at KM 82, the official starting point of the Inca Trail Cusco to Machu Picchu, our dedicated support team, including porters and chefs, will warmly welcome us. While enjoying a hearty traditional Andean breakfast made with organic ingredients, we will organize our gear, including sleeping bags and duffel bags. Since the duffel bags will not be accessible during the hike, we will need to carry all essentials in a comfortable daypack.

After breakfast, we will head to the trailhead at KM 82, also known as Piskacucho. The trail head is named after the distance to Machu Picchu from Cusco. Before setting off, local authorities will verify our Inca Trail permits against our original passports. Once the formalities are complete, our expert tour guide will provide a safety briefing. They will be offering valuable tips to ensure a smooth and enjoyable trek through the Andean mountains.

The first stretch of the Inca Trail Machu Picchu will be a relatively gentle two-hour walk along a flat trail. As we make our way through the scenic terrain, we will reach the impressive archaeological site of Patallacta. It is an ancient Incan checkpoint that once controlled access to the sacred city of Machu Picchu. Our guide will share fascinating insights into the site’s history and its significance in Incan times.

Discover the Wonders of Llactapata and Beyond on the First Day of the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu

After exploring Patallacta, the trail will continue with a gradual ascent for about three more hours. Along the way, we will encounter several archaeological sites, including the remarkable ruins of Llactapata. Llactapata in Quechua means “High City”. Nestled at an altitude of 2,840 meters (9,317 feet), Llactapata offers a glimpse into the Incan way of life and their architectural prowess.

Following an in-depth exploration of Llactapata, we will press on to our lunch camp. Upon arrival, our crew will greet us with a refreshing cup of coca tea, known for its ability to alleviate symptoms of altitude sickness. A delicious organic lunch, prepared with fresh local ingredients, will provide the energy needed to continue our journey.

In the afternoon, we will resume our trek, passing through two small Andean communities where we will have the chance to purchase any last-minute essentials. The trail will gradually ascend, offering panoramic views of the surrounding valleys and snow-capped peaks.

By approximately 5:00 PM, we will reach our first campsite at Ayapata, situated at an altitude of 3,300 meters (10,827 feet). Upon arrival, we will enjoy some well-deserved rest with snacks and a warm cup of coca tea or freshly brewed Peruvian coffee. 

As night falls, we will gather for a hearty dinner at 7:30 PM, prepared by our skilled chefs using locally sourced organic ingredients. After dinner, we will settle into our tents, drifting off to sleep under a sky full of stars, ready to take on the challenges of the next day on the 4-day Inca Trail.

The second day of the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu will begin early in the morning with a warm wake-up call and a steaming cup of coca tea. After a nourishing breakfast, we will set off from Ayapata. We will be ready to face the most challenging and rewarding part of the trek. 

The trail will take us through a lush cloud forest before gradually ascending toward the highest point of the Inca Trail Cusco to Machu Picchu, the famous Dead Woman’s Pass.  Dead Woman’s Pass, stands at 4,215 meters (13,828 feet) above sea level.

The climb will be steep and demanding, but the spectacular views and sense of achievement will make every step worthwhile. As we approach the top, the air will grow thinner, and the challenge of altitude sickness may arise. However, with steady pacing and proper acclimatization, we will conquer the summit.

Standing at the pass, breathtaking panoramic views of the Andean mountains will unfold before us. It will be offering a well-earned reward for our efforts. A short break will allow us to soak in the scenery and prepare for the descent into the Pacaymayo Valley.

The downhill trek will be gentler but still require caution as we navigate the rugged terrain. Upon reaching the valley floor, a hearty lunch will be waiting, giving us the energy to continue our journey. In the afternoon, the adventure will lead us to the second pass, Runkurakay Pass, at 3,950 meters (12,959 feet). Before reaching the top, we will stop at the impressive Runkurakay ruins, a circular Incan structure believed to have been a resting place for messengers traveling to Machu Picchu.

Unveiling Sayacmarca: A Journey Through History and Nature on the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu

Once we reach the summit, the trail will wind down to the mysterious ruins of Sayacmarca, an ancient Incan outpost that offers a glimpse into the strategic planning of the empire. Nestled on a mountainside, Sayacmarca features narrow stone pathways and stunning views of the surrounding valleys. Our tour guide will share fascinating details about the site’s history and its role in the Incan road system.

The final stretch of the day will take us through lush cloud forest vegetation, offering a stark contrast to the rugged mountain passes we conquered earlier. The trail will lead us to our next campsite at Chaquicocha, located at 3,600 meters (11,811 feet). Upon arrival, we will relax with a warm drink while watching the sunset over the Andes. 

A delicious organic dinner will be served, providing much-needed nourishment after an intense day of hiking. The peaceful atmosphere of the campsite, surrounded by mist-covered mountains and the sounds of nature, will be the perfect setting for a restful night’s sleep before continuing our journey along the Inca Trail Machu Picchu.

The third day of the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu will begin with a refreshing cup of coca tea or Peruvian coffee, followed by a hearty Andean breakfast. This section of the trail will be more relaxing, as we will trek through lower altitudes and lush cloud forests, surrounded by breathtaking views of the Andean landscape. The journey will lead us through ancient pathways, offering a unique blend of natural beauty and archaeological wonders.

A short hike from our campsite at Chaquicocha will take us to the fascinating ruins of Phuyupatamarca, located at 3,650 meters (11,975 feet) above sea level. Its name, which means “mystical place above the clouds” in Quechua, perfectly describes the ethereal atmosphere that surrounds this site. 

As the morning mist rises, the stone terraces and ceremonial fountains will emerge from the clouds, creating a magical scene. Our knowledgeable tour guide will share insights into the site’s historical significance and its connection to the vast Incan network leading to Machu Picchu.

After exploring Phuyupatamarca, we will begin our descent toward Intipata, a remarkable agricultural site that offers spectacular views of the winding Urubamba River below. The descent will take about an hour and a half, providing plenty of opportunities to take in the stunning surroundings.

As we approach Intipata, the impressive series of terraced fields will reflect the Inca’s advanced farming techniques, which are still in use today by local communities in the Sacred Valley. Our guide will explain how these terraces played a crucial role in sustaining the Incan population and how their legacy continues to influence modern farming practices.

Wiñay Wayna: A Timeless Treasure and the Final Stop Before Machu Picchu

From Intipata, we will continue hiking downhill to Wiñay Wayna, which means “forever young” in Quechua. This final campsite, situated at 2,650 meters (8,694 feet), will welcome us with breathtaking views and a well-deserved lunch. After some rest, we will visit the Wiñay Wayna archaeological site, one of the most beautiful and well-preserved complexes along the Inca Trail Cusco to Machu Picchu. The site features a blend of agricultural terraces, ceremonial fountains, and stone structures that showcase the engineering brilliance of the Inca civilization.

During our exploration, we will also get a glimpse of the short Inca trail, a two-day trekking route that joins the classic trail just before reaching Machu Picchu. As the sun sets over the lush green mountains, we will have a quiet moment to reflect on the incredible journey we’ve undertaken so far.

Back at the campsite, our team will prepare a special celebratory dinner to honor the accomplishment of conquering the toughest sections of the Inca Trail Machu Picchu.

This will be a time to express gratitude to our dedicated support crew, including porters and chefs, who have been an essential part of the experience. As the night sky fills with stars, we will enjoy our final night on the trail, gazing at the Milky Way and dreaming of the incredible moment when we finally reach Machu Picchu the next day.

The final day of the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu will begin before dawn. A gentle wake-up call with coca tea will prepare us for the most anticipated part of the journey. After a quick breakfast, we will set off from Wiñay Wayna.  We will be making our way through the last stretch of the ancient trail under the soft glow of our headlamps. The excitement will build as we walk along the misty pathways. We will be surrounded by the sounds of the awakening cloud forest.

A gradual climb will take us to the legendary Sun Gate, known as Inti Punku in Quechua. Standing at 2,720 meters (8,924 feet) above sea level, this iconic viewpoint will offer the first breathtaking glimpse of Machu Picchu, emerging through the morning mist. The sense of achievement will be overwhelming as we take in the panoramic views of the lost Incan city, bathed in the soft golden light of sunrise. After capturing this unforgettable moment, we will continue the final descent toward the heart of Machu Picchu.

Upon entering the citadel, the sheer scale and beauty of Machu Picchu will leave us in awe. With our expert guide leading the way, we will explore the most significant areas of the site. Our guided visit will include the Temple of the Sun, the Intihuatana stone, and the Royal Quarters. Each structure will reveal fascinating insights into the ingenuity and spiritual beliefs of the Inca civilization.

As we pass through the stone corridors and terraces, we will have a sense of being connected to the past. The mountains surrounding us will also arouse our sense of awe.

Machu Picchu and Beyond: Celebrating the End of an Unforgettable Inca Trail Journey

After the guided tour, we will have free time to wander through Machu Picchu at our own pace. Those who still have energy can climb Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain for even more spectacular views. As the morning sun rises higher, we will make our way down to the town of Aguas Calientes. Here we can relax and celebrate our achievement with a well-earned meal.

In the afternoon, we will board the train back to Ollantaytambo, enjoying the scenic ride through the Sacred Valley. From there, a comfortable transfer will take us back to Cusco. Our incredible journey along the Inca Trail Cusco to Machu Picchu will come to an end. The experience will leave lasting memories of the ancient wonders, breathtaking landscapes, and the sense of accomplishment that comes with completing one of the world’s most famous treks.

At Happy Gringo Tours, we want your Inca Trail adventure to be unforgettable—and that starts with knowing the rules. Access to the Classic Inca Trail is strictly regulated by the Peruvian Ministry of Culture and SERNANP (the National Park Authority). To hike this historic route, every traveler must secure a non-transferable permit that includes their full name, passport number, nationality, and age—exactly as it appears on their valid passport.

Only 500 permits are issued per day, and that number includes everyone: hikers, porters, cooks, and guides. Once the daily limit is reached, no more entries are allowed—not even for tour operators. That’s why we strongly recommend booking months or even a year in advance, especially during high season (May to September).

Only licensed operators—like Happy Gringo Tours—are authorized to purchase these permits on your behalf. Keep in mind: permits cannot be changed, refunded, or reassigned. If you need to change your travel date, a brand-new permit must be purchased—subject to availability.

If the Inca Trail is fully booked on your desired dates, don’t worry. We also offer amazing alternative treks to Machu Picchu such as the Salkantay, Lares, or Inca Quarry Treks—all rich in beauty, culture, and adventure. Let us help you choose the route that’s right for you!

Before setting off on your adventure, here are some key details to keep in mind for a smooth and enjoyable trek:

• Plan Ahead: For peak season (May through August), we recommend booking your Inca Trail permit at least 8 months in advance.

• Water Access: Bottled water is available for purchase on the first and second day of the trek. After that, you won’t find it again until you reach Machu Picchu.

• Health Note: This trek is not suitable for travelers with back problems or those requiring wheelchair access.

• Group Departures: We operate daily departures with a minimum of two travelers per group.

• Trail Closure: The Inca Trail is closed every February for annual maintenance.

• What to Bring: Don’t forget your original passport, travel insurance card, and any essential personal medications.

Maximize your experience and avoid common mistakes with these essential tips from the Happy Gringo team:

• Break in Your Hiking Boots: Make sure your trekking shoes are fully broken-in before your Inca Trail adventure. New or stiff boots can cause serious discomfort and blisters during multi-day treks.

• Arrive Early in Cusco: Spend at least two days acclimatizing in Cusco before the hike. This reduces your risk of altitude sickness and allows your body to adjust to the high elevation.

• Trim Your Toenails: Keep your toenails very short before the trek. Long nails can press against your boots on downhill sections, causing pain—or worse, nail loss.

• Warm Clothes Trick: Sleep with the next day’s clothes inside your sleeping bag. This keeps them warm and makes getting dressed in the cold morning air much more comfortable.

• Prepare for Rain Anytime: Even in the dry season, showers are possible. Keep your gear dry with proper waterproofing or covers—being soaked in the mountains is never fun.

• Pack Comfortable Camp Shoes: After long hours of hiking, having a pair of sandals or lightweight shoes will give your feet a well-deserved break.

• Food Safety Before the Trek: If you’re planning to visit Rainbow Mountain with another operator beforehand, avoid eating raw foods or salads. We’ve seen travelers fall ill and miss the Inca Trail due to food-related issues.

Standard Rates per Person:

• Adults: From US$ 750

• Students (under 25 years): From US$ 710

• Children (ages 3–8): From US$ 710

Student Discount – Save US$ 40

If you’re a student under 25, you may qualify for a US$ 40 discount on your Machu Picchu entrance ticket, reducing the total price of your trek.

To qualify, your student ID must:

• Show you’re 25 years old or younger at the time of your visit.

• Include your full name, university/school name, and photo.

• Be valid and not expired.

Not accepted:

• IDs without an expiration date.

• Expired cards.

• ISIC cards.

• Travelers over 25, regardless of ID.

Children Discount

Children under 8 years old receive a US$ 40 discount on the total price of the tour.

The weather is unpredictable in the Andes. The dry season for the Inca Trail is from April to October so you will have a 90% chance of having a blue sky. And the rainy season is from November through to March, but this does not stop rain from falling in the dry season or the sun from coming out in the rainy season. No matter what season you are hiking the Classic Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, make sure that you get rain gear such as a rain jacket, rain pants, poncho, and waterproof gloves.

The Inca Trail to Machu Picchu hike involves various microclimates. You might experience 4 seasons in only one day too. So you must be prepared. Bringing layers are key since they make it easy to adapt to different temperature changes. Be prepared with a jacket since the early morning and evening will be cold.

Learn more abour Inca Trail weather.

We strongly recommend purchasing travel insurance before your Inca Trail adventure. The Inca Trail permit is non-refundable and non-transferable, so if you need to cancel your trek last minute, insurance can help reimburse the cost of your pre-paid expenses.

Additionally, travel insurance offers critical protection in case of accidents or illness while you’re far from home. It can cover medical emergencies, evacuation, and other unexpected incidents—providing peace of mind as you explore one of the world’s most iconic trails.

The trail includes challenging ascents and descents, with three high passes. Good physical condition is essential. Acclimatize in Cusco and train if necessary.

Solo Travelers: Will share tents with another trekker of the same gender. Couples have private tents.

Join us at our Cusco office the day before your trek at 6:00 p.m. to meet your guide, receive equipment info, and review final details. If you cannot attend, contact us in advance to reschedule.

While tipping is not mandatory, it is a common and appreciated gesture on the Inca Trail. On the third afternoon of the trek, we bid farewell to our dedicated porters and skilled chefs—this is the ideal time to offer them a tip as a token of gratitude for their hard work.

Most travelers choose to contribute collectively for the porters and cooks, while individual tips for your tour guide are usually given at the end of the guided visit to Machu Picchu. We recommend using Peruvian soles for porters and chefs, though guides can accept either soles or U.S. dollars. The amount is entirely up to you and should reflect the quality of your experience.

Tipping is customary (not mandatory). Suggested amounts:

• Porters: 50–90 soles

• Cook: 120–150 soles

• Guide: Around 300 soles ($100 USD)

Backpacks of any size are allowed on the trail. However, only small backpacks are allowed into Machu Picchu. Bring a 25L pack or rent a secure locker outside the site for larger bags.

Wear hiking boots with good ankle support and grip. The trail includes stone steps, steep descents, and muddy paths. Avoid new shoes to prevent blisters.

Some Claro and Movistar users may have signal in limited areas:

• Day 1: Morning only

• Day 2: No service

• Day 3: Afternoon signal

• Day 4: Signal from Sun Gate to Aguas Calientes

The minimum recommended age is 8. Adults over 60 years of age should consult a physician due to altitude and exertion levels.

Llamas often appear around Llulluchapampa, Chaquicocha, and Phuyupatamarca. They are wild and managed by SERNANP. Expect to see them on days 2, 3, and at Machu Picchu.

Only hikers on the Inca Trail can enter through the Sun Gate. Reaching it around 7 a.m., you’ll witness your first view of Machu Picchu – a moment many find emotional after four days of effort.

Our chefs are trained annually to serve fresh, nutritious meals.

Breakfast: Porridge, pancakes, fruit, coca tea, coffee Lunch & Dinner: Soups (quinoa, asparagus), main courses (chicken, beef stew, veggie options), traditional Peruvian dishes (aji de gallina, escabeche) Dessert: Plantains, puddings, cake Snacks: Fruits, cookies, juice

Vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options available upon request.

We specialize in authentic, small-group adventures. Our team of licensed guides, professional chefs, and friendly porters are dedicated to making your Inca Trail experience safe, meaningful, and unforgettable. Join us to discover the magic of Machu Picchu with Happy Gringo Tours.