Today the 4-day Classic Inca Trail to Machu Picchu - which, as part of the Machu Picchu Historical Sanctuary, has been designated a World Heritage natural and cultural site is the most important and most popular hiking trail in South America, followed by many thousands of ecotourists and modern-day pilgrims in the past 3 decades. Its extreme popularity in recent years -- more than 75,000 people a year hike the famous trail -- has led to concerns among environmentalists and historians that the trail is suffering potentially irreparable degradation.
The National Institute of Culture (INC) and the Ministry of Industry, Tourism, Integration, and International Trade (MITINCI), reacting to pressure from groups such as UNESCO (which threatened to rescind Machu Picchu's World Heritage Site status), instituted far-reaching changes in practices designed to limit the number of visitors and damage to Machu Picchu and the Inca Trail, though these alone may not be enough to forestall the trail's damage.
Preparing with us your Inca Trail Experience
The Classic Inca Trail to Machu Picchu 4 days route is along hand-hewn stone stairs and trails through sumptuous mountain scenery and amazing cloud forest, past rushing rivers and dozens of Inca ruins. The zone is inhabited by rare orchids, 419 species of birds, and even the indigenous spectacled bear. The trek begins at Qorihuayrachina near Ollantaytambo- more easily described as Km 88 of the railway from Cusco to Aguas Calientes. The 43 km (26-mile) route passes three formidable mountain passes, including the punishing "Dead Woman's Pass", to a maximum altitude of 4,200m (13,800 ft.). Most groups enter the ruins of Machu Picchu at sunrise on the fourth day, although others, whose members are less keen on rising at 3:30am to do it, trickle in throughout the morning.
Meals: Lunch, snacks, afternoon tea and dinner.
Accommodation: Camping facilities.
Distance: 11kms/6.8 mls (6 hours more or less of hiking)
Difficulty: Easy/Moderate.
Walking Time: Approximately 6 hours (including picnic lunch in route)
Walk and Terrain: Walk, canter on open roads, some steep ascending
Trekking Km 82 “Piscacucho to Wayllabamba”
Today begins your adventure of a lifetime; We will pick you up from your hotel in our private van very early in the morning at 5:30am. You will be transferred in one hour to the Sacred Valley of the Incas, where our van going to take us to Piskacucho, which is called kilometer 82, where the Classic Inca Trail begins. On the way, we stop for breakfast in Ollantaytambo at 6:30-7am to load up on energy for our start of the trail. (Breakfast is not included). Upon arrival at kilometer 82 at 11:30am, we will have some time to organize ourselves, At the Inca Trail first control point be ready to show your entrance tickets, passports and (if paying a student rate) your student card.
At the start of the trail (2720m/8923ft) we cross the Vilcanota River and follow its route to the right. The first day is relatively easy, a warm-up along the Inca flat terrain. There are great views of the Incan Fortress (‘Huillca Raccay’), the vast and incredible Inca site of Llactapata, (officially called ‘Patallacta’), and the beautiful snow-capped peak of ‘W’akay Willca’ (5860m/19225ft) known in books as Veronica. Our first campsite is in Wayllabamba (3000m/9842ft) in the temperate green valley with the same name. Temperatures at night are around 5ºC depending on the month.
During the day, we will enjoy spectacular views of the snow-capped mountains Veronica, (5,860m/19,337ft), the lush green valley around us and a myriad of flora and fauna.
After waking up at 5 to 5:30am and enjoying a hot breakfast, we start a steep ascent towards the highest pass, abra de Warmihuañusca or ‘Dead Woman’s Pass’ at 4200m/13779ft. On this day, you will feel a real sense of achievement upon reaching the top! After a well-deserved rest, we begin the descent to where we stop for lunch, which is located at lower Pacaymayu (3550m/11646ft).
On our way up to the pass, we will be able to see an array of hummingbirds and a combination of other species of bird life. There will be plenty of time to appreciate the incredible variety of native plants and the ´Polylepis´ or Q’ueuña trees which grow in the astonishing cloud forest located at 3650m/11972ft! After lunch, begins the second two-hour steep climb to Runkuraqay pass (almost 4000m/13,123ft). We arrive at our campsite by 5 pm (high Pacaymayu). Temperatures at this campsite are around 4ºC during the night.
This is the most impressive day so far; keep this in mind as you ascend on day three! We wake up for breakfast at 6am and start the day with a gentle climb to visit the archaeological site of ‘Phuyupatamarca’ (meaning ‘Town in the Clouds’). Here we reach the third highest point on the Inca trail (3680m/).
The views of the mountains, canyons and surrounding areas are spectacular! The Inca site of ‘Phuyupatamarca’, is located a few minutes’ walk from the third pass. After visiting this site, we continue walking down 3000 stairs through the cloud forest to the impressive agricultural Incan site of ‘Intipata. After taking some time to visit this site, we continue until we arrive at our third campsite Wiñay Wayna. (2680m/8792ft). Today, we will only walk about 4 to 5 hours.
We arrive at camp by lunchtime! Temperatures during the night are about 12º C. A short walk from our campsite is the famous Incan site of ‘Wiñay Wayna’ (‘Forever Young’). Even if you are feeling tired after your day’s trek, it´s a moment you cannot miss, the most impressive site on the Inca trail.
At around 4:00am it´s time to wake up, have breakfast and start day 4 on the Inca trail to get to Machu Picchu on time. This is the final part of your journey, arriving by 6:00am to reach Inti Punku or The Sun Gate. At that point, the majestic Machu Picchu Citadel is in front of us with its intense beauty – an incredible sight for all to see. The reality of what the Inca people must have encountered on their taxing journey to this expansive temple of Machu Picchu.
At this point, we walk downhill towards the Machu Picchu Citadel. (2400m/7872 ft.) After walking 40 minutes, we enter the citadel from the top through the “House of the Guardians”. From there we proceed to the control point where we register and leave our belongings. Your professional guide will direct you throughout the astounding ruins and its main streets.
You can wander around the town squares as well as climb the intricately carved stairways made from stone. Machu Picchu is considered as the world’s spiritual center by esoteric wisdom. Once the guided tour is over, you will have free time to explore the site on your own.
You will also have time to indulge in a few of the following activities on your own if you choose (not included in the price)
Climb up Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain and appreciate the beauty and magnificence of Machu Picchu from there.
Other optional activities in Aguas Calientes include a visit to the new local museum or bathe in the hot springs.
Back to Cusco: You will descend to Aguas Calientes by bus (included) and later board the Expedition train to the Ollantaytambo Train Station “Train departure time can vary according train schedule and availability”. In Ollantaytambo Train station you will meet our private van and be transferred to your hotel in Cusco.
*** Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountains hike depends on availability; please let us know if you want to add one of these extra hikes at the time of your booking.
*** We only take ITEP EcoTravel clients in our vans / cars – We do not use public transport.
End of our Services
Is the Inca Trail difficult?
Great question! The Inca Trail hike is considered moderate; however, there are many stairs to climb, and the altitude can also affect your body. We recommend renting a walking stick, as it helps with balance and reduces stress on your knees. If you have mobility issues, please inform your CEO during booking.
How many hours will I be walking per day on the Inca Trail?
Be sure to pack comfortable hiking shoes, as you'll be hiking for six to seven hours during the day and approximately one hour for the guided tour of Machu Picchu.
What are the requirements for hiking the Inca Trail? To hike the Inca Trail with Inka Trail Expeditions, you must be at least 12 years old, have a moderate level of physical fitness, and have a passport valid for up to six months.
What are the requirements for hiking the Inca Trail?
To hike the Inca Trail with Inka Trail Expeditions Perú, you must be at least 12 years old, have a moderate level of physical fitness, and have a passport valid for up to six months.
How high is the Inca trail?
The hike begins at 2,800 meters (9,186 feet) above sea level. The highest point you will reach on the hike is approximately 4,200 meters (13,780 feet) above sea level. You will also sleep at 3,600 meters (11,811 feet) above sea level for at least one night.
Is it very cold on the Inca Trail?
It can get cold due to the altitude. During the Andean winter (May - September), the temperature can drop to freezing at night. It can also be cool during the summer months, so we suggest bringing thermal underwear and a warm sleeping bag.
Is altitude sickness common on the Inca Trail?
It's impossible to predict who will be affected by the altitude, as everyone's ability to adapt varies. (We recommend that you begin the trek in good physical condition.) Most of our travelers have no problems, provided they take the time to acclimatize properly. This could include spending a full day in Cusco (3,249 m [10,659 ft] above sea level) and drinking plenty of water.
When is peak season on the Inca Trail?
Hiking the Inca Trail is popular year-round; however, May through September is considered peak season. This means that permits can sell out months in advance. However, if permits are unavailable, there are other options for hiking along the Andean mountains that still lead to Machu Picchu.
How far in advance should I book my Inca Trail?
To reserve a spot on the Inca Trail, we recommend booking your trek at least six months in advance during peak season (May to October) and three months in advance during the off-season (November to April).
Do I need a permit to hike the Inca Trail?
Yes. We require a copy of your passport. Please note that any attempt to alter your personal information will result in the loss of your permit. No refunds will be issued, so please double-check your information. Additionally, there is a limited number of permits available in an effort to preserve the trail.
When do we arrive at Machu Picchu and how much time will we spend at the ruins?
Arriving at Machu Picchu depends on the campsite assigned to your group on the third night. However, many groups will arrive at the Sun Gate around 6:00 a.m. You will have plenty of time to explore the ruins thanks to a two-hour guided tour and some free time to explore afterward.
How do we get back to Cusco?
After you've enjoyed all the beauty of Machu Picchu, your group will descend by bus to Aguas Calientes and then take a train back to Ollantaytambo, where our bus will be waiting to take you back to Cusco.
Is it possible to skip the Inca Trail even if the tour includes it?
Yes! Just let us know you don't want to hike the Inca Trail when you book. We'll have you spend two nights in Cusco and then take the train to Aguas Calientes. You'll join your group at Machu Picchu.
What kind of accommodation can I expect on the Inca Trail?
We use three-man tents to accommodate two travelers of the same sex. But you can also have your own exclusive tent on the Inca Trail, for an additional of USD 50 for the 3 nights. There are some places along the trail where permanent (but very basic) sanitary facilities exist, and where these are not available, your team will set up portable toilet tents.
Do the porters carry our luggage on the Inca Trail?
No, the porters do not carry your luggage, but we can add an extra porter for USD 80 up to 7 kg and USD 150 up to 15 kg. We will provide you with a duffle bag where you can place your personal items (including your sleeping bag). Our skilled porters will carry these bags while you hike the Inca Trail. Your other personal items will be safely stored at our hotel in Cusco. All you need to bring is a backpack containing the things you will need during the day.
Will I get a sleeping bag and sleeping mat for the Inca Trail?
Great question! We will rent a sleeping bag for USD 25, but if you prefer we recommend bringing a compact, three-season sleeping bag. You can also rent a sleeping bag in Cusco; just let us know when you book. We provide foam sleeping mats for our travelers, but feel free to bring your own self-inflating mat if you prefer.
What kind of food will be served on the Inca Trail?
Our cooks prepare excellent, high-quality meals that are perfect for a day of trekking. The menu generally includes: pasta, rice, chicken, fresh fruits and vegetables, oatmeal, and eggs. If you are vegetarian, no problem! We can accommodate your needs. If you have any dietary restrictions or allergies, please inform your CEO.
Is purified water available along the Inca trail?
Bottled water can be purchased on the first day and the afternoon of the third day of the trek. However, we advise against buying bottles, as this increases waste. Instead, we recommend carrying a refillable water bottle, as boiled water will be provided with each meal.
Can I bring my own walking stick for the Inca Trail?
Yes, as long as it's not a walking stick with a metal tip, as these are not permitted on the trail. You can also rent a wooden walking stick along with additional equipment such as sleeping bags and air mattresses.
What is the suggested amount to tip guides and porters on the Inca Trail?
Tipping is at your discretion, but it is always appreciated. If you enjoyed the service of your guides and porters, we suggest leaving between USD 6 and USD 8 per day.
Do I need prior trekking experience for the Inca Trail?
It's not required, but good physical condition and a positive attitude are essential. The pace is gradual and always accompanied by professional guides.
What is the biggest challenge on the Inca Trail?
The second day, when you reach Warmiwañusqa Pass (4,215 m). The effort is worthwhile thanks to the sense of accomplishment and the spectacular views.
What landscapes will I see during the Inca trail?
Andean mountains, cloud forest, rivers, waterfalls and a great diversity of flora and fauna, as well as impressive Inca constructions along the way.
For availability of spaces for this service, please contact us info@salkantaytrek.org or by WhatsApp (+51) 970 506 205 and we`ll send you detailed information, prices, terms and conditions.
Please keep in mind that significant price reductions are available for groups. All our tours are fully guaranteed, departure every day. Contact us for more information for the tour that you are choosing, or to begin customizing your own itinerary. recommendations:
"Inka Trail Expeditions Perú is a tour operator travel agency in Peru and the city of Cusco, We really know what we do and offer, We are well managed, with several offices in Peru and a long list of travel destinations, offering all travel alternatives in Perú, from family trips, honeymoon trips and luxury travel, including adventure tours and exploring trips to the jungle, for almost any budget”
NOTE: Inka Trail Expeditions Perú, specializes in organizing the ideal travel plan to Peru, with hotels and destinations that you choose, because we have all confidential and promotional rates. For guidance on how to organize your custom package. Please write us.
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5/5 stars
The Inca Trail with Percy and Iza was absolutely incredible. They both have amazing energy and a deep knowledge of history, which made the experience truly rich and educational. The trail itself is stunning and very well preserved, and Percy and Iza made the whole journey feel welcoming, fun, and...
5/5 stars
Very nice. Very good guide. Very patient with tourists on the Inca walk. Recommended for this type of trip.... ...
5/5 stars
Abet accompanied us on this experience of the Inca trail even though the journey became difficult and encouraged us to finish the experience...
