Camino Inca

Inca Trail to Machu Picchu 4 days

The 4-day Inca Trail is one of the most famous trekking routes in the world. It's among the top 10 hiking trails in South America and Peru. Moreover, it's quite accessible, as no special skills are required to complete it. With good physical condition and health, you can reach from the starting point to the impressive Machu Picchu. The trail offers a fascinating mix of ancient ruins, snow-capped peaks, spectacular waterfalls, and a lush rainforest. At the end of the journey, you'll enter through the Sun Gate, where you'll have a breathtaking view of Machu Picchu from above, capturing the site in all its splendor. The classic route, which is the most popular, is 42 km (26 miles) long and is completed in 4 days. While there are multiple Inca Trail paths for hiking, this is the most renowned, culminating in Machu Picchu, one of the Seven Wonders of the World, traversing stunning panoramas and various Inca archaeological sites.

Details of the trip.

Day 1: Cusco – Km 82 – Hatunchaca – Ayapata

Your exciting adventure along the Inca Trail begins with an early morning pickup, around 4:30 am, from your accommodation in Cusco. If you are staying in the Sacred Valley, such as Urubamba or Ollantaytambo, we will pick you up later, around 6:00 am. After a 2.5-hour drive, we will arrive at Km 82, in Piscacucho, the starting point of this epic 4-day journey to Machu Picchu. Before starting, we will stop in Ollantaytambo for a nutritious breakfast and make any last-minute purchases for the hike.

Upon arriving at Kilometer 82, around 8:00 am, you will meet our team of chefs and porters, who will accompany you on this adventure. After a brief stop at the checkpoint, where you will need to show your passport, we will begin the trek towards the enigmatic Lost City of the Incas.

The first part of the hike is relatively easy, with a 2-hour walk to Patallacta, an ancient Inca settlement. From this hidden point, you will have stunning views of the ruins surrounded by mountains and rivers. Then, we will walk another 2 hours to Hatunchaca, where you will enjoy a lunch prepared with fresh local ingredients by our talented cooks.

After the meal, we will continue with a 2-hour hike until we reach the campsite at Ayapata, around 5:00 pm. Upon arrival, your tent, a snack, and a hot drink will be waiting for you. Before dinner, you will have time to relax, prepare for the night, and take in the impressive mountain landscape.

Distance: 14 km / 8.7 mi
Duration: 6 hours
Campsite elevation: 3,300 m / 10,826 ft
Maximum elevation: 3,300 m / 10,826 ft
Meals: Breakfast, snacks, lunch, afternoon snack, dinner
Difficulty level: Moderate

Day 2: Ayapata – Dead Woman’s Pass – Chaquicocha

This is the most challenging day of the journey. We will start early with a cup of coffee or coca tea in your tent to wake you up. After breakfast, we will begin a 4-hour climb to Dead Woman’s Pass (4,215 m / 13,829 ft), the highest point on the Inca Trail. At the top, we will pause to enjoy the peace and beauty of the place while your guide performs a ceremony of gratitude to the Apus, the spiritual guardians of the mountains. Then, we will descend for about 2 hours to the Pacaymayo Alto Valley, where we will stop for lunch and rest.

In the afternoon, we will ascend 2 hours to the second pass at Runkuraqay (4,000 m / 13,123 ft), followed by a 2-hour descent to the Chaquicocha campsite. During this section, you will be able to explore the ancient Inca sites of Runkuraqay and Sayacmarca. Finally, we will arrive at Chaquicocha (3,600 m / 11,811 ft), where you will enjoy a spectacular sunset over the Vilcabamba mountain range before dinner. At night, this location will offer clear skies, perfect for stargazing and admiring constellations.

Distance: 16 km / 10 mi
Duration: 10 hours
Campsite elevation: 3,600 m / 11,811 ft
Maximum elevation: 4,215 m / 13,829 ft
Meals: Breakfast, snacks, lunch, afternoon snack, dinner
Difficulty level: Challenging

Day 3: Chaquicocha – Intipata – Wiñaywayna

After completing the most difficult section of the Inca Trail, the third day offers a more relaxing and exciting trek. Today’s hike will be calm, about 5 hours to the final campsite. Along the trail, you will pass through different ecosystems, enjoy the mystical cloud forest, and have impressive views of Mount Salkantay, the second-highest peak in Cusco. During the day, we will explore two Inca archaeological sites: Phuyupatamarca, known as the "City in the Clouds," with panoramic views of the Urubamba River and Machu Picchu mountain, and Intipata, an impressive set of Inca terraces dedicated to agriculture.

At Intipata, you will have time to rest and marvel at the landscape. We will reach the final campsite around 1:00 p.m., where a delicious lunch will await you. Afterward, you can relax, explore the camp, take photos of the llamas roaming the area, or freshen up with a shower. Later, we will visit the magical Inca site of Wiñaywayna, where your guide will reveal the secrets and history of the place. Upon returning to the camp, you will enjoy tea, a special dinner, and an unforgettable farewell.

Distance: 10 km / 6.2 mi
Duration: 5 hours
Campsite elevation: 2,600 m / 8,530 ft
Maximum elevation: 3,600 m / 11,811 ft
Meals: Breakfast, snacks, lunch, afternoon snack, dinner
Difficulty level: Moderate

Day 4: Explore Machu Picchu – Cusco

The most anticipated day has arrived: the visit to Machu Picchu, the legendary Lost City of the Incas. We will start the day very early, heading to the checkpoint, which opens at 5:30 a.m. As the sun begins to rise, we will start a one-hour hike to the Sun Gate (Intipunku), where you can enjoy a spectacular view of Machu Picchu. On a clear day, you will have the opportunity to witness the majestic sunrise over the ruins, an experience that will leave you speechless.

From the Sun Gate, we will descend for one hour to the main entrance of Machu Picchu, arriving around 8:00 a.m. Your guide will give you a detailed 2 to 3-hour tour, showing you the highlights of the Inca citadel. If you still have energy, you can also opt to hike up Huayna Picchu mountain (reservation required in advance). After the visit, we will take a bus down to Aguas Calientes for lunch and then board the panoramic train (Vistadome or 360°) back. Our team will meet you at the station and transfer you to your hotel in Cusco or the Sacred Valley, with an estimated arrival time of 7:30 p.m.

Distance: 6 km / 3.7 mi
Duration: 2-3 hours
Maximum elevation: 2,720 m / 8,923 ft
Meals: Breakfast, snacks
Difficulty level: Easy to moderate

Inca Trail to Machu Picchu 4 Days / 3 Nights Includes:

Pre-departure briefing.
Transfer from your accommodation in Cusco or Sacred Valley.
Return to your accommodation (Historic center of Cusco).
Professional local guide in English, Spanish, and other languages.
Round-trip bus from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu.
Entrance tickets to the Inca Trail and Machu Picchu.
Voyager or Expedition category train from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo.
Personal porter to carry all camping equipment.
Camping equipment: dining tents, kitchen tents, tables, chairs, and kitchen supplies.
Duffle bag with a capacity of up to 8 kg (17 lb) for your belongings.
First aid kit, oxygen supply.
3 nights camping in comfortable North Face or Hard Wear tents.
Sleeping mat, rain poncho, hand towels.
Experienced chef to prepare meals: breakfasts, lunches, and dinners.
All meals on the trail, except for dinner on the last day.
Wake-up tea every morning.
Afternoon tea.
Daily water and snacks.

Inca Trail to Machu Picchu 4 Days / 3 Nights Does Not Include:

Dinner on the last day in Aguas Calientes.
Sleeping bag, inflatable mattress, trekking poles.
Travel insurance (recommended).
Gratuities.
Entry to Huayna Picchu Mountain (optional).
Entry to Machu Picchu Mountain (optional).
Additional costs or delays beyond our control.

Packing list for the 4-day Inca Trail hike to Machu Picchu

When preparing to travel to a distant destination like South America, especially for remote treks like the Inca Trail or the Ausangate Trek, it’s essential to be well-prepared in advance.

For your trip to Peru, you’ll likely bring one or two large suitcases depending on the length of your vacation. However, for the 4-day hike to Machu Picchu, you will only need the essentials. The rest of your belongings can be left at your hotel in Cusco or in storage at Ausangate Adventure.

Essentials

During the hike, you’ll be in the mountains with no phone signal and far from stores or shops. Therefore, it’s crucial to carry everything you need to fully enjoy your experience. These items are essential, and we recommend purchasing or renting high-quality gear.

Original passport: It is mandatory to carry the original passport, as copies are not accepted. It must be valid for at least 6 months to enter and leave Peru and have two blank pages for stamps.
Valid student card: If you’ve booked the Inca Trail with a student discount, you’ll need to present a valid university ID (up to 25 years old), clearly showing your photo, personal details, and expiration date.
Hiking boots: Lightweight, comfortable, and already broken in to avoid blisters. Make sure they’re neither too tight nor too loose.
High-quality backpack: Lightweight, comfortable, and with enough space for your daily essentials.
Water bottle or hydration system: With at least a 2-liter capacity. It’s important to keep your water cool.
Trekking poles: Highly recommended for the hike. You can rent poles if you don’t have them.
Sleeping bag: We recommend one rated for -10°C, to keep you warm during the night. You can rent one if needed.
Headlamp: Essential for moving around the camp at night, although a handheld flashlight is also an option.

What to carry in your backpack

Here’s a list of items you should carry in your backpack daily. Remember, you’ll be carrying it all day, so make sure it’s comfortable, lightweight, and practical. Additionally, local regulations require that your backpack not exceed 25 liters in capacity, as larger backpacks are not allowed inside Machu Picchu.

Hat and sunglasses: The sun on the Inca Trail is intense, so a good hat with neck protection and UV-filter sunglasses are a must.
Scarf or bandana: These multifunctional cloths are useful for protection against dust and cold.
Wool hat or beanie: To keep you warm during the cold nights and early mornings.
Hiking gloves: Lightweight, waterproof, and breathable, perfect for keeping your hands warm while maintaining mobility.
Waterproof jacket: Always carry a waterproof jacket, regardless of the season. Materials like Gore-Tex are recommended.
Waterproof pants: While not often used on the Inca Trail, if you have them, bring them just in case.
Thermal layers: A base layer for warmth, a mid-layer like a fleece, and a waterproof outer layer to protect from rain and wind.
Sunscreen: High SPF to protect from the sun.
Lip balm with SPF: To prevent your lips from drying out due to the weather and altitude.
Insect repellent: Ensure it contains DEET or picaridin.
Hand sanitizer: Useful for maintaining hygiene along the way.
Toilet paper: Carry a small amount in a sealed plastic bag.
Personal first aid kit: With basic medicine for headaches, stomach issues, or colds, plus bandages and plasters.
Camera and extra batteries: Cold temperatures can drain batteries quickly, so bring extras or a portable charger.
Energy snacks: Bring granola bars or trail mix for extra energy.
Cash: Bring small bills for buying souvenirs or using bathrooms in villages.

What to pack in the duffel bag

We’ll provide you with a duffel bag to store the items you don’t need during the daily hikes. The porters will carry this bag for you, but make sure it doesn’t weigh more than 7 kg, including your sleeping bag and inflatable mattress.

Sleeping bag: If rented, it typically weighs about 2 kg.
Inflatable mattress: If you prefer extra comfort, an inflatable mattress is a great option.
Comfortable camp shoes: After a long day of hiking, you’ll want to change out of your hiking boots into something lightweight.
Warm jacket: Temperatures can drop significantly at night, so bring appropriate clothing for the cold.
Breathable shirts: Bring moisture-wicking clothing, preferably made of synthetic materials like polyester.
Hiking pants: Lightweight and quick-drying pants are ideal. Convertible pants with zippers at knee height are very practical.
Hiking socks and underwear: Bring several pairs to stay dry and comfortable.
Quick-dry towel: Essential for the campsite.
Biodegradable soap: To avoid harming the natural environment.
Wet wipes: Very useful for staying clean during the hike.
Toothbrush and toothpaste: Compact and lightweight.
Power bank: Bring one with enough capacity to keep your devices charged.
Plastic bags: To keep wet or dirty clothes separate from the rest of your belongings.

How many days do i need to acclimatize before the hike?

It’s very important to be well acclimatized to the altitude before exerting yourself on a hike. We recommend arriving in Cusco at least 2 days before your trek begins to help you adjust and avoid potential issues with altitude sickness during the hike. If you have already been in another high-altitude area in Peru before arriving in Cusco, we still recommend having one full day in Cusco to rest, recover from your travels, and enjoy the sights.

Getting to Cusco

Cusco’s airport currently only operates domestic flights. All international passengers arriving by plane must land in Lima and go through customs. It’s important to note that due to Cusco's high altitude, flights may experience delays or cancellations, and any weather changes can halt air traffic. For those who prefer an alternative, buses are a viable option, although the journey can be long, especially from Lima. Buses from Lima can take approximately 20 hours to reach Cusco.

Client Pickup

Ausangate Adventure can pick you up at your hotel, provided it is located in Cusco’s Historic Center. During your pre-trek briefing, your guide will coordinate the pickup time, but keep in mind that wait times may vary between 30 to 45 minutes due to local traffic. Cusco has narrow, cobbled streets that may limit access to certain hotels and Airbnbs. We also offer pickup in the Sacred Valley. Some locations may be in areas without vehicle access or on steep inclines, making luggage transport difficult. It’s advisable to book accommodations with easy access to facilitate transportation.

Luggage Storage

You can safely store any extra luggage in Cusco, either at your hotel or with us at Ausangate Adventure while you complete your hike. We’ll store your luggage in the morning before your trek begins and return it to you once you arrive back in Cusco. Make sure your bags are clearly labeled to ensure they can be located easily.

Location

The world-famous Classic Inca Trail to Machu Picchu begins at Kilometer 82 in the town of Piscacucho, located in the Ollantaytambo district, Urubamba province, within the Sacred Valley of the Incas in Cusco, Peru. This historic route passes through stunning mountain and jungle landscapes, leading hikers past Incan archaeological sites before culminating in the majestic city of Machu Picchu.

Returning to Cusco

Leaving Machu Picchu involves several organized steps, all included in your tour.

First, you’ll take a bus from Machu Picchu to Aguas Calientes, which takes about 25 minutes. Buses are assigned on a first-come, first-served basis and run throughout the day.

From Aguas Calientes, you will board a train to either Ollantaytambo or Poroy. Your guide will provide your train tickets with the scheduled time, and it’s recommended that you arrive at the platform at least 30 minutes before departure.

The train ride from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo lasts approximately 2 hours.
The train ride from Aguas Calientes to Poroy lasts around 3.5 hours.

Upon arrival at the train station, our staff will meet you and transfer you to Plaza de San Francisco in Cusco.

The van ride from Ollantaytambo to Plaza de San Francisco takes about 2 hours.
The van ride from Poroy to Plaza de San Francisco takes approximately 30 minutes.

Once near Plaza de San Francisco, prepaid taxis will be assigned to take you back to your hotel.

Machu Picchu Entry Times

Machu Picchu now offers two time slots for visits: morning or afternoon. Your ticket will allow access only during one of these periods, and at the end of your allotted time, security personnel will ask you to exit the site.

VISITING HOURS:

Morning: 6:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Afternoon: 12:00 PM – 5:30 PM

If you have tickets to hike Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain, you’ll be able to stay at the site until 2:30 PM. If you prefer to spend the entire day at Machu Picchu, we can add an afternoon session ticket to your booking.

Permits for the 4-Day Inca Trail

A permit is required to hike the 4-day Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, as access is regulated by the Peruvian government. Only 500 people are allowed on the trail each day, including tourists, guides, and porters. Steps to Obtain a Permit:

Check Availability: Verify online availability through authorized travel agencies.
Book: Select a date and make your reservation at least 6 months in advance.
Payment: Proceed with payment for the permit, which varies depending on the agency and services included.

It's crucial to book well in advance due to high demand and the limited daily permits.

Huayna Picchu and Machu Picchu Mountain

The Huayna Picchu hike is the most popular and must be reserved in advance, as tickets sell out quickly. The hike to the summit takes about 45 minutes up and 45 minutes down. Tickets are assigned in time slots indicating when to start the hike. The first slot is from 7:00 to 8:00 AM, and the second from 10:00 to 11:00 AM. These times mark when you can begin your ascent. We typically reserve the second slot so you can enjoy your guided tour of the ruins first. Though you’ll hike on your own, your guide will show you the starting point.

On the other hand, the Machu Picchu Mountain hike is less crowded and slightly longer. The ascent takes about 1.5 hours up and 1.5 hours down. This hike also has two time slots: from 7:00 to 8:00 AM and from 9:00 to 10:00 AM, with the second slot being our usual choice. Note that hikers on the 4-day and 7-day Inca Trail are not able to do this hike and tour the ruins, as time does not permit.

Completing either of these hikes gives you extra time to explore the ruins afterward.

Health and Safety

It’s crucial that you inform your guide of any health issues or concerns you may have. While our guides are not medical professionals, they are trained in first aid.

You are responsible for determining whether the tour is suitable for your health condition. It’s recommended that you consult your doctor to confirm that you’re fit to participate in the planned activities. You should also ask for advice on necessary vaccines and preventive measures. Ausangate Adventure does not provide medical advice, so it’s your responsibility to assess the risks and needs of each part of the tour, considering your personal situation, physical abilities, and medical requirements.

In the event you encounter difficulties during the hike and are unable to continue, a porter will accompany you to the nearest road, where you’ll wait until a vehicle arrives to take you to the closest health center.

Group Travel

Group trips consist of people of varying ages and hiking abilities. By joining a group, you understand that some participants may hike at a faster or slower pace than you. Everyone is free to walk at their own speed, and the guide will ensure they dedicate time to each group member. If adjustments need to be made to the route, the guide will work with the group to find the best solution that benefits everyone.

Weather

The weather on the Inca Trail is highly changeable and unpredictable. Although there are two main seasons, it’s essential to be prepared for any type of weather during your trek to Machu Picchu.

The rainy season runs from November to March. The dry season extends from April to October.

Temperatures during the hike to Machu Picchu can vary depending on the altitude and time of year. Daytime temperatures can reach up to 80°F (27°C), but at night, they can drop below freezing. Therefore, hikers should bring appropriate clothing for both hot and cold weather.

Altitude Sickness

Altitude sickness occurs when there is less oxygen available in the air at high altitudes. It can affect certain travelers regardless of age, gender, or physical condition. Common symptoms include headaches, loss of appetite, dizziness, and difficulty sleeping. While some people will recover quickly, others may experience persistent symptoms for several days if not properly treated. We recommend the following tips to reduce the chances and severity of altitude sickness:

Before your trip, consult your doctor. They may recommend taking acetazolamide (Diamox), a medication that can help alleviate symptoms if taken one or two days before your trip.

It’s important to stay properly hydrated. Drink plenty of water before and during your stay. Some people find saline nasal sprays helpful.

Upon arrival, it’s advisable to take it easy and allow your body to adapt by lying down for 10 to 15 minutes. Try to rest as much as possible during your journey, as overexertion can worsen symptoms.

Before visiting high-altitude areas, it’s recommended to follow a light diet. Choose easily digestible foods such as fish, chicken, and hot soups. Avoid greasy foods, beef, lamb, and caffeinated or alcoholic beverages.

Coca tea, mint, and muña (Andean mint) may help relieve symptoms.

Using oxygen appropriately will also be beneficial for recovery.

Difficulty

Hiking the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu can be challenging due to its length and the altitudes reached. However, the rewards you’ll gain make the effort completely worthwhile. The breathtaking landscapes will leave you in awe, and you will feel extremely satisfied for having accomplished such an impressive feat.

Protests and Strikes

Protests and strikes are common in Peru and can affect our travel plans. Roads may be blocked, and trains may stop running. However, we will do everything possible to maintain your original itinerary, even if it means departing a night earlier. In some cases, trips may be canceled. If there are any changes, our operations team will communicate with you. Your safety is our top priority, and we will take the best steps to protect you in any unforeseen situation.

Lost Items

Please take special care of your belongings and make sure to collect all your items when leaving our vehicles, camps, or restaurants. You are solely responsible for your personal items during the tour.

Tour in shared service.

This group service means that you will take the tour with other people, this standard service is done with a group between 12 to 18 people, we have confirmed departures for every day, so if it is only one or two people, don't worry, they can join to one of our groups.

From: $750

Tour in private service.

This service is an exclusive way to make this trip where the service is much more personalized, prices vary according to the number of people in your group. Please consult info@ausangateadventure.com WhatsApp +51 914201334

How difficult is the Inca Trail hike?

The Inca Trail is considered moderately to highly difficult. The altitude, steep ascents, sharp descents, and long daily hikes make it physically demanding, but achievable for people in good physical condition with proper preparation.

Is it safe to hike the Inca Trail?

Yes, it is safe as long as you follow your guide's instructions and prepare adequately. The routes are well-established, and the guides are experienced. There are also first aid kits available, and the team is prepared for any eventualities.

When is the best time to hike the Inca Trail?

The best time to hike the Inca Trail is during the dry season, from April to October. The most popular months are May and September, as the weather is more stable.

Is it necessary to book in advance?

Yes, spots for the Inca Trail are limited and sell out quickly, especially during peak season. It is recommended to book at least 6 months in advance.

How many people are typically in a group?

Groups usually consist of between 8 to 16 people, although some operators offer smaller or private groups if you prefer a more personalized experience.

What happens if it rains during the hike?

Rain is common during the wet season (November to March), but it can also occur in other months. It is important to bring waterproof clothing and protective covers for your backpack and gear. The tour continues despite the rain, although some sections may become slippery.

What should I do if I have altitude problems?

Symptoms of altitude sickness include headaches, fatigue, and shortness of breath. To prevent it, acclimatize in Cusco for at least two days before starting the trek. Stay well-hydrated, eat light, and avoid alcohol. Some hikers opt to carry coca leaves or medications like Diamox to alleviate symptoms.

What type of footwear is most suitable?

It is essential to wear comfortable, durable hiking boots, preferably waterproof, that you have worn before. Avoid wearing brand-new shoes to prevent blisters and discomfort.

Can the hike be canceled or rescheduled?

Cancellation and rescheduling policies vary by tour operator. However, the Peruvian government does not allow refunds on Inca Trail permits or changes to reservation dates, so it’s important to keep this in mind when planning.

Are there any restrictions for hiking the Inca Trail?

Yes, there is a daily limit of 500 people (including guides and porters) allowed on the Inca Trail. Additionally, the hike is not permitted for children under 12 without supervision or for people with mobility issues without assistance.

How much time is spent at Machu Picchu?

Typically, tours include around 2 to 3 hours to explore Machu Picchu with a guide. If you want more time, you can arrange for a second entry by purchasing an additional ticket in advance.

What should I do if I’m vegan or have food allergies?

If you have dietary restrictions, such as being vegan or having food allergies, inform your agency in advance so they can prepare suitable meals for you. Most tour operators are equipped to handle such requests.