The legendary Inca trail, from Km 82 to Machu Picchu.
The classic 4-day hike follows the same route the ancient Incas traversed through the Andean mountains — one of the most iconic trails in the world.
You will cross diverse ecological zones: high-altitude passes, cloud forests, views of snow-capped peaks, and archaeological sites like Llactapata, Sayacmarca, and Wiñay Wayna, before reaching the Sun Gate to witness sunrise over Machu Picchu.
It is a complete adventure, featuring professional camping gear, a fairly treated porter team, a chef, and an expert guide — real effort rewarded by the most thrilling arrival at Machu Picchu.
What makes this itinerary unique.
Official Inca Trail permit via Km 82.
Dead Woman's Pass (4,200 m), the highest point on the route.
Inca sites: Llactapata, Sayacmarca, Phuyupatamarca, and Wiñay Wayna.
Arrival at Machu Picchu through the Sun Gate (Inti Punku).
Professional campsites and full support crew.
Guided tour of Machu Picchu covering Circuits 1 and 3.
Day by day.
Early morning pickup and drive to Piskacuchu (Km 82), the official start of the trail. After the checkpoint, we hike mostly flat terrain, passing the sites of Willkarakay and Llactapata, before reaching the Ayapata campsite.
The most challenging day: ascent to Dead Woman's Pass (4,200 m), the highest point of the Inca Trail, with panoramic views of the mountain ranges. We descend to Pacaymayo and continue past the Sayacmarca site to the Chakicocha campsite.
One of the most beautiful sections of the route: a steady hike to Phuyupatamarca, with views of the snow-capped Salkantay, followed by a descent through Inca tunnels and terraces to Wiñay Wayna. In the afternoon, a farewell ceremony with the porter team.
Pre-dawn departure towards the Sun Gate (Inti Punku) for the first glimpse of Machu Picchu at sunrise. We descend to the citadel for a guided tour (Circuits 1 and 3), then take the bus down to Aguas Calientes and the return train to Ollantaytambo, with transport back to Cusco.
Everything we take care of for you.
Inclusions
- Official Inca Trail permits and Machu Picchu entrance tickets
- Private transport Cusco → Km 82
- Return tourist train (Aguas Calientes → Ollantaytambo) and bus ticket down from Machu Picchu
- Professional 4-season tents and private toilet tent
- Porter team, chef, and bilingual guide
- All trail meals (3 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 3 dinners) with vegetarian options
- Safety equipment: first aid kit, oxygen, and emergency bag
- Guided tour of Machu Picchu covering Circuits 1 and 3
Not included
- First-day breakfast and final lunch in Aguas Calientes
- Sleeping bag (rental USD 20) and trekking poles (rental USD 15)
- Extra porter service for personal items (USD 160)
- Travel insurance with trekking coverage (mandatory)
- Tips for guide, chef, and porters
Essential packing list.
- Original passport (mandatory — must match the one used for booking)
- Small daypack (up to 25L) for the trail days
- Layered clothing + windbreaker and thermal wear for the night
- Sturdy, well-broken-in trekking shoes
- Rain jacket or poncho
- Cap/hat, sunscreen, and sunglasses
- Insect repellent
- Reusable water bottle and energy snacks
- Personal medications
- Cash in soles for tips and extra expenses
Important information
- A copy of your passport is required to issue permits and tickets.
- We recommend 2 to 3 days of acclimatization in Cusco before the trek.
- Good physical condition is required — please inform the team of any pre-existing medical conditions before booking.
- Travel insurance with coverage for trekking activities is highly recommended.
- Machu Picchu tickets are final and non-refundable (Ministry of Culture).
- Booking policy: 50% deposit and 50% balance due 15 days prior. Cancellations subject to a progressive fee schedule.
- Inca Trail permits are limited by the Peruvian government and assigned on a first-come, first-served basis — book several months in advance.
- The personal daypack you carry must not exceed 6 kg; communal gear is carried by the porters.
- The trail closes in February for maintenance (subject to annual changes).
Official and limited permits — book well in advance.
The Peruvian government releases a fixed number of permits per day for the Classic Inca Trail, and they sell out months in advance — especially from May to September.
To confirm your booking, we need a clear copy of your passport. Contact our team via WhatsApp to secure your date.
Common questions about this itinerary.
The Classic is 4 days long, starts at Km 82, and includes 3 nights of camping, featuring the challenge of Dead Woman's Pass (4,200 m). The Short is 2 days, starts at Km 104, and ends with a hotel stay in Aguas Calientes.
It is challenging. It involves 4 days of hiking with long, high-altitude ascents. We recommend prior physical preparation and 2 to 3 days of acclimatization in Cusco.
Yes — it is mandatory to send a clear copy of your passport to issue the official permit. Permits are personal and non-transferable.
We will find the best alternative with you: Short Inca Trail, Salkantay Trek, or Huchuy Qosqo. Contact our team via WhatsApp.
Related packages.
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