inca trail tour reddit

• Meet the Team
• Work with Us
• Czech Republic
• Netherlands
• Switzerland
• Scandinavia
• Philippines
• South Korea
• New Zealand
• South Africa
• Budget Travel
• Work & Travel
• The Broke Backpacker Manifesto
• Travel Resources
• How to Travel on $10/day

Home » South America » Peru » The ULTIMATE Guide to Hiking the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu

The ULTIMATE Guide to Hiking the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu

For the past 5 years, I have had the goal of visiting each of the 7 Wonders of the world. Traveling to Peru and seeing Machu Picchu was one of them.

It’s also the place I first met my wife in person for the first time. Sounds creepy, but it really isn’t.

Before leaving, I had heard horror stories about the difficulty of the hiking the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu. I made sure to mentally prepare our small team of six for the adventure and kept up a weekly progress report of how everyone was training.

It wasn’t all fun and games. I’m here to give you the lowdown on the good and the bad and how to make sure your next trip to Machu Picchu and the Inca Trail is a success. Here you will get all the inside information on the hike from someone who has spent a lot of time researching it and completed it firsthand.

I’ve hiked some of the best national parks in the U.S. and this Inca Trail hike is still my favorite in terms of scenery and complete awesomeness. Alright, let’s get to the details.

Hiking the Classic Inca Trail to Machu Picchu

Day-by-day itinerary for trekking the inca trail (4 days/3 nights), finding the best inca trail tour operator, the best time to visit machu picchu, what to bring on the inca trail, ok, now you’re ready to hike the inca trail to machu picchu.

The Classic 4-day Inca Trail hike to Machu Picchu is arguably the most famous trail in all of South America . The Inca Trail’s length is 26 miles (42 kilometers) of pure Peruvian power that connects several Incan archaeological sites: Runcuracay , Sayacmarca , Phuyuptamarca , Wiñaywayna , and of course none other than the magnificent Machu Picchu ruins!

So what’s the Inca Trail hike’s difficulty like? Well, the elevation of the Inca Trail is over 13,000 feet so if you have altitude problems make sure to think twice before committing. This ain’t no walk in the park unless you like your walk in the parks accompanied by blood-tingling cliff-drops and ruins of ancient South American empires.

Protip:  That’s exactly how I like my walks in the park. 😉

If it wasn’t for an adventurous Yale scholar in 1913, Hiram Bingham, we might not have known of the existence of this modern-day gem. When the Incans were conquered by the Spanish in the 1500’s , they fled the jungle and Machu Picchu went hidden for hundreds of years.

The legendary hike culminates at the Puerta de Sol (Sun Gate) where you overlook the magnificent ruins below and the iconic Huayna Picchu mountain to the side. Along the hike, at the epicenter of the old Incan Empire, you will experience majestic mountains, cloud forests, a subtropical jungle, and a little bit of wildlife.

To help you prepare to go on one of the best hikes in the world , we have summarized everything you need to know with a day-by-day itinerary, picking a tour operator, and what to bring with you. Everything is set for you to walk the Inca Trail.

The exact itinerary for the hike may differ between various Inca Trail tour operators, but almost all groups follow a similar itinerary and have set times to leave to avoid overcrowding. Even with daily tourism limits, there are still many, many tour groups and you will constantly be surrounded by other hikers, guides, and porters throughout the 4 days.

If you are looking for a more personal, private outdoor experience, I recommend you pick a less prevalent adventure as there are many alternative Inca sites to choose from around the Cusco area.

Alright, now for the daily itinerary.

Day 1 – Starting the Inca Trail Hike

13 km (8 miles), 5-7 hours, to huayllabamba.

Day one eases you into the action. It’s a nice starter to a much more difficult day ahead.

After taking transport from nearby Cusco, you meet your team and porters.  The first day is a relatively easy hike and goes past the ruins of Patallaqta , which means “town on a hillside” in the Incan language of Quechua.

You will spend the night at Huayllabamba , the only inhabited town on the trek.

Day 1 is relatively easy as there isn’t much elevation gain and your legs are fresh and you feel like you can take on anything.

Then, day 2 comes.

Day 2 – A Mishap on the Trail

11 km (7 miles), 7-10 hours, from huayllabamba to pacaymayu.

Day 2 is considerably more difficult due to the severe elevation gain and altitude of the Inca Trail. If you’re fit enough to handle the constant incline, there is a good chance the high altitude will zap your energy and perhaps give you dizziness.

It’s the hardest day of the trek, with an ascent of 1,200 meters and a challenging descent to the bottom campsite. This day offers a great feeling of achievement when you get to Dead Woman’s Pass which is named after the resemblance of the mountain’s shadow of a woman’s head.

This section of the Inca Trail hike provides a fantastic perspective of the gorgeous Peruvian countryside but is also very cold due to the high altitude. When you get to the top, you can take pictures in the snow to display your fortitude.

If you aren’t in tip-top shape, this day will either make you or break you. Unfortunately, this is the day that things went south for a couple of members of our team. One of the girls on our team got a busted knee on the descent after Dead Woman’s Pass – not good.

We were literally in the middle of the Peruvian jungle with no easy way of evacuating her. Despite her eagerness to carry on, she could barely hobble her way forward without needing assistance.

Thankfully, the Peruvians are a resourceful people and will go leaps and bounds to make a person in need is helped. A few of the porters and our guide took turns carrying our friend throughout the remaining two and a half days of the hike.

I can hardly carry my petite wife for more than 20 seconds yet somehow our porters and guide managed for hours on end. She did walk sparingly, but for the most part, was carried for a good portion of the time.

In addition to all the equipment, pots and pans, food, and trash that they had to carry, they also now had a grown adult on their backs.

It was nothing short of remarkable.

Day 3: The Lead-Up to the Final Boss of the Inca Trail

16 km (10 miles), 10 hours, from pacaymayu to wiñaywayna.

Day 3 of the hike to Machu Picchu is no slouch and for most, it’s the day that the nagging soreness reminds you that you are human. It consists of a 1500-meter descent into the subtropical cloud forests and through the Amazon basin. The soreness really gets at you as you make your way down the mountainside.

You will pass several unforgettable Incan sites like two Incan tunnels that are carved right out of the mountainside. Throughout day 3 you’ll also see several mini Machu Picchu-like ruins spread throughout the trail. It’s a nice build-up to the granddaddy of them all that follows on day 4.

Rest easy once you get to the campsite because the next day is likely to be the most unforgettable experience of your hiking existence (it was for me).

Day 4: Hiking to Machu Picchu’s Glory

5 km (3 miles), 2-3 hours, from wiñaywayna to machu picchu and return to cusco.

On the last day, you will wake up before dawn at an absurdly early hour (our wake up call was 3 A.M.) in order to reach the Sun Gate overlooking Machu Picchu just in time for sunrise.

It probably would have been glorious to see. However, as mentioned earlier, a couple of our team members were really hurting by day 4 so it made hiking to the Sun Gate longer than anticipated and we certainly didn’t see the sun come up.

I wouldn’t be surprised if we were the last group to make it into the historic site. Once you arrive, you will then have half a day to explore the ruins of Machu Picchu before heading back to Cusco by train. Personally, I could have spent the whole day there just in awe of the ruins.

Unlike most archaeological wonders, Peru allows visitors to actually go in and around the beautiful ruins and see firsthand the inside of the structures and the once magnificent buildings. I think doing the gruelling 4-day hike on the Inca Trail really gave us a greater appreciation for the ruins once we got there.

I’m sure you hear this often, but to be honest, it really is nothing like being there in person and seeing it up close and personal. Pictures just don’t do it justice. You can easily spend hours on end walking up and around the magnificent ruins.

Once the day has come to an end, you’ll take a bus down to Aguas Calientes where you will take a train back to Ollantaytambo before arriving back in Cusco by bus or car.

If you have the time to take a dip in the hot springs I recommend you do so before grabbing the train out.

Alright, let’s talk logistics.

First, make sure to book your tour on the Inca Trail well in advance as the tours sell out quickly and you can only go with a tour group or private certified guide. Yes, sadly the answer to the question “Can you hike the Inca Trail without a guide?”  is a big fat depressing  no.

The most visitors the park allows is 500 a day and that includes guides and porters which make up over half that number. This may not sound like a lot, but it really is when you think about the fact that everyone follows the same narrow trails to Machu Picchu.

We had to book the tour about 6 months in advance to reserve a spot. Keep that in mind as you will need good long-range planning to make sure your spot is reserved.

Tours to Machu Picchu normally arrange groups of eight to sixteen people, and you will hike with people from all around the world. You can arrange a private tour, but this can be considerably more expensive with a smaller group.

So what are the Inca Trail prices like?

We managed with a group of six (not including the guide, porters, and cook). From what I have seen, the price is around $500-$700 USD per person . We paid at the lower end as my wife is Colombian and we found a tour operator that catered more to the Spanish speaking South American clientele.

If the tour operator charges much less, they are probably not paying their porters fair wages. It is best to book directly through a local tour operator instead of a foreign travel agency since the travel agencies may charge you double the price.

Included in the price is transport to the start of the trail, a bilingual guide, entrance fees to the Inca Trail and Machu Picchu, tents, all meals and a cook, porters, emergency first aid, oxygen, and return transport back to Cusco.

The food was fantastic throughout the trip. I really have no idea how they made such incredible meals when they were literally in the middle of the jungle.

Trust me, once you see all that is included and all the work that the porters and tour guide do, you will realize it is well worth every penny paid. If you need to pay for an additional porter to lighten your load and carry some of your things, you can do that for around $50-$100 USD.

Each porter should be tipped around 30-40 soles (about $10-$15) for the entire group. Keep in mind, regardless of how much or how little you pay for your tour, the vast majority of that money does not go to the guys that do the heavy lifting. Make sure to tip your team well as they deserve it and likely live off of those tips.

Finally, when booking your tour for the Inca Trail, make sure that the tour operator is selling you the right trek and not misleading you with a similar sounding hike. We recommend going with Cachi Life as they are doing really great work in Peru that goes well beyond the Inca Trail hike. They’re easily my picj for the best Inca Trail tour.

The Inca Trail to Machu Picchu can be hiked all year round, except for February when the trail is closed for maintenance.

The best time to hike the Inca Trail is May through September when there is less rain and the temperatures are slightly cooler. We went in July and the temperatures were great with a bit of rain on day 2. It was cool enough in the evening to get a good night’s sleep without freezing.

The high season is June to August , but again make sure to book at least five to seven months in advance regardless of when you decide to travel.

Rain is likely during April and October and almost guaranteed between November and March making them a much less suitable time to walk to Machu Picchu… the wet llamas are cute though!

First up, here’s your beginner’s guide to hiking . That’s an excellent jumping-off point for creating your Inca Trail packing list. All the same, here’s some must-bring packing for the Inca Trail:

• Clothes – Definitely make sure to bring layers of clothing and know your layering system! It can be hot during the day and chilly at night. Dead Woman’s Pass was very cold as we were over 13,000 feet in elevation.
• A Sleeping System – This stuff can be rented or part of your tour but it’s always good to travel with your own, especially if you’re backpacking in Peru . A backpacking tent , sleeping bag , and sleeping pad are all smart investments for any traveler. A snuggly nights sleep in the heights of the Andes awaits!
• Waterproof Clothes – If you are going during the rainy season, you should also bring rainproof clothes and equipment. You’ll be happy you packed that waterproof jacket when it starts pissing freezing rain at 13,000 feet!
• Trekking Poles It’s helpful to have trekking poles for the downward hikes on the Inca Trail. Your knees will thank you later.
• Hiking Boots – Boots for hiking … because you’re hiking… kinda logical, yeah?
• A Hiking Backpack –  backpack for hiking … see above.
• Water Purification Tablets –  Na, jokes! You don’t need them. Get a Grayl Geopress instead and you’ll never need them again. This thing is a game changer!
• Hiking Sunglasses – Some people like a pair of hiking sunglasses and some don’t. If you’re the former, then invest in a good pair.

Finally, remember to pack light! You’ll have to carry your pack for 4 days so only take the lightweight essentials. Every extra pound matters!

Drink water from ANYWHERE. The Grayl Geopress is the worlds leading filtered water bottle protecting you from all manner of waterborne nasties.

Single-use plastic bottles are a MASSIVE threat to marine life. Be a part of the solution and travel with a filter water bottle. Save money and the environment!

We’ve tested the Geopress  rigorously  from the icy heights of Pakistan to the tropical jungles of Bali, and can confirm: it’s the best water bottle you’ll ever buy!

Wait, you’re not quite ready to hike the Inca Trail! Get insured first!

Because duh! Remember the part where you’re trekking through mountains at 13,000 feet? Remember the part where my companion busted her knee and had to be carried by porters – goddamn hiking in style! Get insured.

I have been using World Nomads for some time now and made a few claims over the years. They’re easy to use, professional and relatively affordable. They may also let you buy or extend a policy once you’ve started your trip and are already abroad which is super handy.If there’s one insurance company I trust, it’s World Nomads.

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

The 4-Day Inca Trail hike to Machu Picchu is one of the magnificent hikes I have ever done. I’ve hiked all over the USA and other parts of the world but nothing has ever affected me in such a way as the Inca Trail did.

We have summarized everything you need to know before embarking on this incredible journey. If you do decide to go to Peru for the hike or just to see Machu Picchu, I recommend you brush up on some basic Spanish travel phrases .

It’s a somewhat strenuous 4 days so it’s important to consider what you are getting yourself into before leaving for the trip. If you are injury-prone or have had issues in the past think twice before committing to the full hike. Remember, you can always pay for an extra porter ahead of time if you need help carrying your things.

Get used to walking long distances before embarking. The Inca Trail trek is over 3,000 meters in altitude. Altitude pills can be the difference between a great trip and a terrible one.

Plan to spend two to three days staying in Cusco acclimatizing before beginning the trek. There are amazing hostels in Cusco  that offer a comfy bed so you can start the next day well-rested and read to go. You can spend those days sightseeing in and around Cusco as there are plenty of archaeological sites like Nazca.

You would be greatly remiss if you do not visit Machu Picchu at some point in your life. The intricate detail that the Incans put into each and every stone structure is mesmerizing. In all my experiences traveling and adventuring, the hike to Machu Picchu along the Inca Trail still stands as my most spectacular.

What can I say? It’s a damn good journey!

And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links . That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!

Share or save this post

21 Comments

You tipped the porters $15 for 6 people for a 4 day trek after they literally carried one of your friends??? That’s messed up.

LOooove what you do and how you present it. Can you make another recommendation for Peru tours as CachiLife appears to be out of business. We like the idea of our dollars going as muchas possible to locals. Thanks

I would suggest getting out there and booking with local guides, business, accommodation etc directly. Visit local shops and eateries. That way you will be able to spread your dollars round and ensure as much of it as possible goes directly to real locals.

Thank you for your detailed daily itinerary. I am homeschooling my kids during the Covid pandemic and we are doing a unit on the Pre-Columbian cultures in South America. So I decided to make our own version of the “Oregon Trail,” and we’re gonna hike to Machu Picchu! Your guide was invaluable in creating the game and scenarios we might encounter, broken knee and all! I have always wanted to go, but this is probably the best I’ll get to do. We are also using an app that lets you hike all over the world, virtually, and then gives you a medal when you finish. We get to look at Google street view/hike view as we go, so hopefully that motivates my kids to get moving and see the sights on the trail! I’ll let you know how the game goes. Thank you so much!

Thanks for the post Nate. As a former pro photographer, this hike interests me greatly.

Not sure if I can make it though. Back in the day, I hiked a 14,000 ft mountain in CO, and had some difficulty in the last part due to a lack of preparation. Now, 10 years older, and having neuropathy in my feet and legs, I’d really like to make this hike, but with numb feet, may have to pass. Would check with my physical therapist for extra advice.

Sounds like I need to find an option. Ideas?

I believe you can get a bus to the site from a near by town and return the same day, this would mean you could avoid the walk in but still visit the site.

Thanks for all the details you provided. My hubby and I along with some family/friends are scheduled for the hike this coming November. I’m sad that’s the rainy season. I didn’t pick the time though. Looks like I need to do some physical training before November!

Awesome guide very informative keeps writing. Thanks for sharing!!

Glad you found it useful Mark!

Very detailed and helpful review of your trip to Peru! Enjoyed reading without getting bored in a bit. Simple, straight and full of useful info. Great job guys! Carry on travelling and sharing! ?

Nate, Who was your guide I need recommendations.

Tons of great things to do around Cuzco. I’d check out Nazca if you get a chance.

This photo is amazing! Well from the photograph it pretty clean that you are very good photographer. Thanks for sharing this lovely travel experience with us I went to Peru in spring of 2012 and the crown jewel of any Peruvian getaway is Machu Picchu. We also were able to snap a few pics with limited people since we waited out a rain storm. But we were treated to the clouds climbing up Machu Picchu which was beautiful! ?

Thank you George! Glad you found Machu Picchu to be just as spectactular as we did.

This place is very beautiful and such a great piece of art. Machu picchu can amaze every traveler. This place is look like a puzzle game where one can enjoy hide and seek game like I did .:)

I am hiking up to Machu Picchu next month and I can’t wait. I am spending a few days in Cusco before. Any tips or ideas for other fun things to do around there?

Thanks for your post Nate.T he Inca Trail is an unforgettable experience that I did last year. It is not only the trek and the landscapes that surround the Inca Trail, but the spectacular arrival to Machu Picchu. It is an emotional mixture between having fulfilled the objective of concluding the walk and the spiritual recharge offered by the place. Machu Picchu is a magical place definitely, the tiredness, the pain of muscles and bones disappear when you walk between its streets and historical places. In addition to doing the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu for 4 days, I stayed two more days in the town of Machu Picchu, the next day I was able to visit Machu Picchu again and go up to Huaynapicchu, a completely different view of Machu Picchu but from the heaven. It is important to visit during the dry season, they told me that the views are different when there is rain and sometimes it is not so spectacular.

I recommend to Elvis from Kenko: https://www.kenkoadventures.com/inca-trail-machu-picchu Regards! Robert

This is one of the most detailed and exceptional guides for hiking the Inca trail, Nate! I love your day by day itinerary which will definitely come in handy. Well done!

Thanks so much Agness, glad you found the itinerary useful!

Thank you so much for sharing your vivid experience on the Inca trail. I have found it very useful as I plan my trip. Do you recommend a tour group?

I also heard there was a train. That sounds nice, I think I’ll take that option.

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Notify me of followup comments via e-mail.

APRIL SALE:   Discover and book at   up to 60% off!

Inca Trail Tours & Trips

High-above sea level, the country of Peru is home to the ancient ruins of the Inca Empire. Beginning in the colonial city of Cusco, hike the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu . The surrounding areas of the region are full of archaeological sites and this South American trail is one of the world's most famous journeys.

147 Inca Trail tour packages with 3,831 reviews

• Hiking & Trekking
• Sightseeing
• In-depth Cultural
• Christmas & New Year

Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu in 2 Days

Perfect option for getting the full experience on limited time.

• Book With Flexibility This operator allows you to rebook your dates or tours with them for free, waiving change fees.

Absolute Peru

My highlight was the Inca trail. Exhilarating, energy sapping but awesome. The guides on the trail were simply the best. Without their guidance, motivation and expert knowledge I don't think I would have made it. I don't think G-Adventures can be beaten.

• Mountain Hikes

Peru: Ancient Cities & the Andes

Karina did an amazing Job! I enjoyed how she structured the days and kept us together as group. She was always full of positive energy, but totally authentic!

Classic Inca Trail Trek 4D/3N to Machu Picchu (Group service )

Unbelievable. Brilliant tour, brilliant guides (Juan Carlos and Rosita) who let you stop or slow down whenever you need, they tell stories and show you interesting stops along the way, they're funny, sweet, organized and helpful. The porters carry your belongings and sleeping bags, etc. and you really can't believe how much they can carry with no complaints. They also work so hard around the camp, and they clapped us every time we arrived at our lunch/dinner spots. The chefs, wow, cooked us some amazing meals, and there was always more than enough food. They provide you with snacks for throughout the day which is nice - and needed! Everything was just amazing and very well ran. I can't recommend this trip enough.

Classic Inca Trail to Machu Picchu 4 Days

We had the most incredible experience on the Inca trail. Our tour guide Willian Elvis was AMAZING. He was so connected to the history and the culture and made the whole experience feel so authentic. He was so joyous to be around, always smiling , always professional. Sergio was brilliant also. Such a lovely energy and so helpful and patient. I was so impressed with the cook Rolando also . The food was fantastic. The porters deserve their pay to be DOUBLED. They worked so hard to make everything work seamlessly for the group. They were attentive , kind and so hard working. I was in awe of the crew to tell the truth. I will be recommending Willian Elvis and the team to everyone.

04 Day Classic Inca Trail to Machu Picchu - Small Group Service

Last year I took the classic inca Trail to machu picchu with Inkayni team and everythign was fantastic ???? Our guide, JC – Juan Carlos, was excellent - so engaging while sharing his knowledge of the Incan history and he looked after us all so well throughout the whole four days. We spent Good times because the weather was favourable and sunny. The porters are some of the most hardworking people I’ve ever met and were the true stars of the show. Our every need was attended to with the greatest care and there were so many little touches which made for a really great experience. Highly recommend taking the plunge and doing the Inca trail and if you do I can’t stress enough my recommendation to hire Inkayni Peru Tours and this team to lead you.

Hiking The Classic Inca Trail to Machu Picchu & Sacred Valley

We are a family of 4 people and we travelled to South America to meet with one of the wonders of the world that is located in Cusco region. During the itinerary of 8 days we did the classic inca Trail 4 days that was absolutely an amazing experience! The service was great!! Our guide Edwin was a very enthusiastic and professional guide who helped us with all our questions and needs. Which was awesome! Next to the guide and cook we also had porters whom carried all our staff from day one till the last day. Tents, food, drinks, clothes, etc. The guys were super friendly and made our trip even more special. We would highly recommend the tour and also the organization! Inkayni team made us feel very special and helped us a lot!

Classic Peru

This tour had a bit of everything! Although a quick whirl around Peru it was an action packed cultural experience with a terrific small tour group. Our guide Fernando was fabulous - knowledgeable, spirited and attentive to everyone’s needs. Highlights were most certainly Machu Picchu, picturesque Cuzco and surrounds and the fabulous home stay experience at Lake Titicaca. Accommodation was basic but comfortable and food options were generally excellent. Altitude sickness was perhaps the only drawback to the tour for many, something hard for an Australian to describe or imagine!!

Inca Trail Express

Angela and Jose were great and took excellent care of us. We went at a pace that was accommodable for everyone.

Ancascocha Trek to Machu Picchu 5 Days/4 Nights

An incredible trek with an exceptional company. Everything was meticulously planned, Freddie our guide was super knowledgable and made everyone feel like we were in safe hands. The camping experience was first class - comfortable tents and incredible food. If you are planning a trek from Cusco I highly recommend you use these guys!

Salkantay Via Inca Trail Trek 4 Days/3 Nights

This 4 day, 3 night Salkantay via Inca Trail trek was hands down one of the best adventures I’ve ever done in my life. The staff were great and they have some awesome staff in the office and on the hike. I cannot recommend these guys enough.

• Local Living

Inca Jungle to Machu Picchu - 3 Days

Great tour packed with fun activities each day. Our guide Stiven was really nice, helpful and very informed

Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu 4D/3N

Great trip with great travel partners. Bamba experience made the tour far more comfortable and memorable than we imagined. P.S.: The guide was excellent.

• 10% deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu 5D/4N

I haven't treked that much before but this really opend my eyes for this kind of adventure! . And all thanks to our guide Percy! He really made our group feel as a familj, and we learnd so much about Peru because of his passion! I would recomend this to everyone!

Iconic Peru National Geographic Journeys

The tour was amazing! The transportation was on time, the activities were great, guides were well prepared for presentations and questions. In the Amazon, Dellfort was enthusiastic to show us as many things as possible. During the Inca trail, Nick was always making sure we are doing ok, always communicating what was next (even duration of each path - extraordinary!). I had such a pleasant trip, it felt like vacation and also adventure. I am grateful for it and glad I could explore so much of Peru.

What people love about Inca Trail Tours

Our guide Mihail Bejar was amazing. He was extremely knowledgeable about the history. It helped that he is local born and raised. During our 13 km hike on day one he was accommodating and patient with hikers that could not move as quickly. He was never overbearing and always friendly and supportive. Highly recommend. Wes from Canada

great guide, great sites to visit topped with Inka trail

Definitely exceeded my expectiation. Inca trail is hard and reaching Macchu Picchu is one of the most profound experience.

Inca Trail Tours starting in:

• Group (127)
• Hiking & Trekking (106)
• Fully Guided (96)
• Family (72)
• Active (69)
• Explorer (50)
• Partially Guided (49)
• In-depth Cultural (37)
• Personalized (37)
• Private (20)
• Self-Guided (9)
• Small Group (80)
• 3 Day Tours (19)
• 7 Day Tours (57)
• 10 Day Tours (25)
• 2 Week Tours (12)
• 3 Week Tours (9)
• 1 Month+ Tours (4)
• Spring 2024 (91)
• Summer 2024 (123)
• Fall / Autumn 2024 (121)
• Winter 2024 / 2025 (111)
• Spring 2025 (77)
• Summer 2025 (74)
• Fall / Autumn 2025 (71)
• Winter 2025 / 2026 (59)
• April 2024 (75)
• May 2024 (94)
• June 2024 (101)
• July 2024 (115)
• August 2024 (121)
• September 2024 (118)
• October 2024 (116)
• November 2024 (114)
• December 2024 (110)
• January 2025 (69)
• February 2025 (41)
• March 2025 (67)
• April 2025 (72)
• May 2025 (72)
• June 2025 (72)
• July 2025 (69)
• August 2025 (71)
• September 2025 (71)
• October 2025 (66)
• November 2025 (65)

Travel Styles

• Budget (18)
• Singles and Solo (89)
• For Couples (21)
• Young Adults (8)
• Seniors (90)

Hike the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu: A Local Guide’s Review

The Inca Trail isn’t the easiest way to reach the Historic Sanctuary of Machu Picchu—getting to the civilization’s most monumental relic shouldn’t be after all. But it is the best.

The Inca Trail isn’t just a hike, it’s the story of an entire civilization. 

Winding from tundra to cloud forests and amid remnants of centuries-old pilgrimages, every step takes you deeper into the history of this lost empire; your foot patter echoing off dirt paths marked in blood, sweat, and tears.

As this review will show you, the Inca Trail, or Capac Ñan in Quechua, is a difficult hike to Machu Picchu . But once you finally break through the mist and lay your eyes on Machupijchu , you’ll see why this monument built at the height of the empire was fit for royalty—or even the gods. And why it’s one of the greatest marvels of South America today.

Pros and Cons of hiking the Inca Trail

The inca trail: highway to the sun.

What we now refer to as the Inca Trail is a 26-mile (40km) former royal road that was constructed about 500 years ago. It was but a small slice of the extensive network the Inca’s devised, which covered about 18,641 miles (30,000km) throughout the country running from the snow-capped Andes to the coast, and everything in between. It was granted UNESCO World Heritage status in 2014, and perhaps the greatest testament to the brilliance of the Incas is that many of these paths are still used today in nearly their original form!

Regarding the Inca Trail, archaeologists believe this section was conceived by the elite, possibly used for their pilgrimage from Cusco, the capital of the empire, to the Sun Gates and the city of Machu Picchu. 

From the trailhead of the empire

Like the legend of the Incan civilization, the story of the Inca Trail starts in the Sacred Valley.

Located in southeastern Peru, the Sacred Valley of the Incas follows the Urubamba River over a 60-mile (100km) stretch of the Andean highlands, encompassing Cusco, Machu Picchu, and the legendary trail connecting the two. Once the administrative, cultural, and religious center of the Inca empire, the valley is still Peru’s hottest tourist attraction, drawing over a million foreign visitors a year. 

The elevations in the valley range wildly, from below 6,500 feet (2,000m) around the river basin to 9,500+ (2,900+m) for the higher settlements. The lower elevation areas were probably what drew the Incas there, as the warmer temperatures made it possible to grow maize, their most valued crop. After subjugating the natives and taking the city of Cusco, the Incas used the Sacred Valley as the hub for their further expansion efforts and the rest is history.

A trail (almost) lost to time

This review of the Inca Trail may never have been written since the path was nearly lost. Following the 16th-century Spanish conquest of Peru, both the Inca Trail and Machu Picchu were completely abandoned, either deliberately or due to the spread of smallpox. Then, as the vicious jungles overgrew the sites, the Inca Trail almost became a footnote in history, a fate that was avoided by a chance encounter between an American explorer and a local farmer in 1911.

Expect… everything

Thanks to the elevation changes and Peru’s inherently diverse climate, the Inca Trail is a universe in itself. On this hiking tour , you’ll witness the seasons changing right before your eyes from hour to hour. 

One moment, you’ll be wiping the sweat from your brow surrounded by tropical scarlet orchids, and the next, you’ll see your breath escape while traversing mile-high peaks. And when the weather is just right, there’s no doubt that the Inca Trail is one of the best hiking trails in the world .

All roads lead to Machu Picchu—Including From My Hometown

The Inca Trail isn’t the only hike leading to the Lost City. 

The 37-mile (60km) Salkantay Trek is the most popular alternative trail to Machu Picchu. While the Inca Trail is a series of ups and downs, Salkantay takes you high among the mountaintops of the Cordillera de Vilcabamba. You get bird’s-eye views of the orchid valleys and alpine lakes below, as well as a close-up look at the granite walls and snow-capped peaks looming above.

A hike for the anthropologically inclined, the Lares Trek winds through parts of Peru where traditions of the Incas are still alive and well. Along the way you’ll meet Indigenous weavers and farmers, learn the meaning of Quechuan hospitality, and taste their local delicacies. At 21 miles (33km), this is considered the easiest of the routes (though still quite challenging), crossing one high pass, Ipsaycocha, at an altitude of 14,600 ft (4,450m) and typically being done in four days.

Born-and-raised Andean

I’ll say that I’m partial to Lares because I grew up in a village in the Sacred Valley with about 30 other families. We tended vegetable gardens and raised traditional animals, such as guinea pigs, llamas, and alpacas. My parents speak Quechua, the language of the native people here in Andean Peru, and the language I spoke pretty much until I graduated high school. I started working as a porter when I was 18, and worked my way into guiding shortly after. 

Today, you’ll find me in Cusco City, where I live and manage Alpaca Expeditions , a company specializing in leading hiking expeditions in the area. Although both of these hikes have their strong suits, the Inca Trail still tops them in my book. It is the most well-rounded trail to Machu Picchu with the right balance of historic landmarks and untamed landscapes and Andean wilderness.

As a guide, I’ve hiked the stone-paved path to Machu Picchu more than 300 times over the last 17 years. And I’m proud to say that I’m not bored of it yet.

Quick hiking tips to get you thinkin’ like an Incan

The thing I get the most questions about from people wanting to hike the Inca Trail is the difficulty. As I’ve mentioned, the Inca Trail is an unrelenting 26-mile series of ascents and descents—if you’re not fit enough, it can kick your butt. With that said, you can certainly prepare for a longer trip like this; Tyler gives a lot of great advice for how to do so and other hiking tips for beginners .

Test the trail—and yourself—first

If you have any doubts about your fitness level, it’s always a good idea to do some test hikes in preparation for your expedition. This will give you an idea of where you currently stand in comparison of what you can expect on the trail. You’ll want to figure out a training plan from there if there’s a big gap.

Note that added weight in your backpack can make a big difference at high elevation. Part of your preparation process should be about dialing in your systems so that you can limit your day-to-day carry to the bare necessities on the trip. You’re not hiking the 310-mile Superior Hiking Trail , so keep your load lighter and your feet happier.

Acclimatizing to the altitude and weather

Altitude sickness is the second biggest hurdle. Aim to arrive in Cusco at least 2 days before your hike, as this will give you time to acclimatize to the elevation. Also, try to avoid heavy food the day before your trip, and drink 6-8 glasses of water a day for the duration of your stay.

Like hiking New Zealand’s North Island , the weather in the Andes is very unpredictable, and it often goes from clear and sunny to chilly and stormy at a moment’s notice. Thankfully, your guide knows this too, and they’re always ready to adapt your schedule accordingly. The only thing you need to do is bring quality outer layers—wind and waterproof—as well as plenty of clothes for layering.

Finally, we need to talk about mosquitoes. There are a lot of them, especially at lower altitudes. Make sure to pack plenty of bug spray, as well as some long-sleeved shirts and long pants, to fend off the swarms. Thankfully, they don’t like the cold, so you should stop seeing them above 8,000 feet (2,400m).

Why you have to hike the Inca Trail with a guide (literally)

Due to strict government regulations, a guide has to be present on every hiking expedition. Even if it wasn’t mandatory, you’d definitely want a local guide by your side, as they’ll keep you on the route, teach you about the history of the area, and help you manage the perilous weather.

Guided Machu Picchu hiking tours via the Inca Trail include hotel accommodations in Cusco, campsite fees, three meals a day cooked by a private chef, as well as all transportation for the duration of the trek. Your guides will also save you the hassle of dealing with the permits and regulations, as well as organize porter services to transfer your belongings from camp to camp. 

This trip wouldn’t be possible without the help of porters, which is why I kindly ask all of our clients to treat them with respect and dignity. To learn more about the struggles porters face in the adventure industry, check out this article about workforce equity in adventure tourism .

Inca Trail Review: Hike Through History on your way to Machu Picchu

It’s true that the Inca Trail doesn’t boast the soaring glacial landscapes of the southern Andes, such as Patagonia’s Fitz Roy trek or the breathtaking turquoise lakes scattered along the Torres del Paine trek . 

However, the rich history embodied in these archaeological sites and the way it interplays with the pristine natural landscapes makes the Inca Trail my absolute favorite hike in the area—and one of the most popular hikes in the world. 

Below, I’ll go into more depth about what each day entails, highlight a few of the most important sites that go unnoticed in pretty much every other tour review, and show you how to hike the legendary Inca Trail like those that lived here centuries ago.

Day 1: Hike past Dead Woman’s Pass before visiting Chachabamba and Llactapata 

Your first day also happens to be the most challenging one. Your four-day Inca Trail adventure begins at Kilometer 82, a train station and legendary kick-off point for the Machu Picchu train tour . A good night’s sleep is a must as you’ll be walking for 12 hours and taking on the two tallest mountains of the trip.

The highest point of the day’s hike, Warmiwañusca or “Dead Woman’s Pass”, stands 13,779 ft (4,200m) above sea level, and the rocky pathway, reminiscent of the hikes in El Chaltén , should take you four hours to climb. While the pass is infamous for its altitude and exposure, it actually got its name by less grim means; the mountain resembles the profile of a woman lying down, looking up at the sky. 

Along the way, the first ancient site you’ll encounter is Chachabamba , a house-like stone structure in the lush valley of the Urubamba river. Though it probably served as a gatehouse, the traditional altar carved in natural rock suggests it was also used as a religious site. The Incas were known for their connection with nature, and they ventured to Chachabamba to worship water, the element their agricultural-based society valued most. 

The second site—also the biggest one you’ll see on this trail—is Llactapata , the “Hummingbird Village”. Original names of these sites were lost, so archaeologists who have been studying the area came up with new ones. Stopping by this small village where the Incas used to farm corn and potatoes, complete with some traditional multi-level terraces, wraps up your first day of sightseeing.

Day 2: Runkuracay and the ancient village of Sayacmarca

On the second day of your Inca Trail thru-hike , you’ll stop by Runkuracay , colloquially known as the “Egg Hut”. This peculiar basket-shaped structure was a common rest stop for chasquis , the agile and highly-trained messengers of the Incan empire. The hut offers a stunning view of Dead Woman’s Pass.

Follow the pathway overlooking a subtropical forest with a rainbow of orchids and you’ll find Sayacmarca , “The Unaccessible Village”. The name hails from the fact that you can only access it via the Inca Trail, which is why it was used as a control base for incomers. The settlement was actually originally built by the Colla, the Inca’s adversaries. Upon conquering them, the Inca improved upon the existing architecture by adding a farm.

A small settlement of 200 residents thrived where these ruins lay today. From there, the trail winds along roaring rivers into the jungle.

Day 3: Phuyupatamarca, the orchid paradise above the clouds

Ready to meet the gods? From your campsite, a two-hour trudge through the jungle and some dense mists will lead you to Phuyupatamarca , “the Village Above the Clouds.”  

Located at a staggering 12,040 feet (3,670m), the Incas built this sacred city to be close to the gods who lived just above the clouds. Enveloped by ever-present mists intensifying the mystical atmosphere, Phuyupatamarca’s primary function in the Incan Empire’s time was to house religious ceremonies. The village was built complete with 6 ritual baths for the priests, two minor squares, and two viewpoints with views of the Andes that rival those found while climbing Cotopaxi .

Famously, it’s also believed that the Incas studied the stars here. They used astronomy to predict the future, like whether they could anticipate a good harvest season, but also for mining, construction, and warfare. The two calendars displayed intricate charts tracking the sun and moon’s phases, and it’s also believed that they determined when important ceremonies took place. 

Discover the lesser-known terrace city of Intipata

From Phuyupatamarca, you can see the terrace city of Intipata, a lesser-known archaeological site. Also known as “the place of the sun,” the ruins consist of around 150 to 200 terraces perched on a steep hillside. To this day, the terraces are overgrown with over 150 types of aromatic herbs and edible plants. The five stone baths still standing among the ruins are fully functional, filling with fresh water every rainy season!

Wiñay Wayna, a scenic alternative

Many hikers I’ve guided have called Wiñay Wayna , “forever young”, even more beautiful than Machu Picchu. When he first stumbled upon it, an archeologist discovered that the site was overtaken by vegetation but as he started cutting through the ferns and the bushes, what he found was a cavalcade of flowers, with striking red orchids as far as the eye can see.

These orchids adorn the terraces of Wiñay Wayna to this day. On top of the spectacular flora, the site is filled with fountains celebrating water, the most important element in Inca culture. The settlement is truly an unbelievable place.

Day 4: Arrive at Machu Picchu, the Lost City of the Incas

The big finale of the Inca Trail has to be the hike up to the Sun Gate , the entrance to Machu Picchu. The ancient people built the Sun Gate to watch the sunrise during the summer solstice on December 21st (remember, southern hemisphere). The solstice marked the beginning of the rainy season for the Incas, a crucial period for agriculture, and by extension their survival. 

After taking a photo at the most popular selfie spot this side of the Trolltunga hike , you’ll make your trek down to the Lost City of the Incas. When the first rays shine from the neighboring Huayna Picchu mountain, filtering through the gate exactly at the Temple of the Sun, it’s the closest you’ll be to touching the sun outside of climbing Chimborazo .

Ready for a Trek Through Time?

Without exception, the hiking trails across the Andes are a challenge. Day after day, you’ll reach the campsites tired and sore, but the things you’ll see will make the cramps and the blisters worth it. 

The spiritual significance of the iconic Inca Trail hike is felt in every carefully paved stone, diligently crafted monument, and thoughtful viewpoint. Once you walk these ancient paths and take it all in, you’ll know why the gods chose to call these hills home.

Alternative adventures in South America

Keep in mind that other than the Inca Trail, there are other amazing hikes that can take you to Machu Picchu.

Looking for more must-try trips in South America? Also located in Peru, the Rainbow Mountain hike defies the laws of nature. Just southeast, Bolivia’s El Choro trek provides the perfect blend of alpine and tropical terrain, as well as its own fair share of ancient Incan trails. A bit further south, climbing Aconcagua in Argentina is the perfect first foray into the world of advanced mountaineering. And in the far south of the continent, you’ll find the awe-inspiring Torres del Paine W Trek in Chile.

Other world-renowned hiking trails

Looking to cross names as big as the Inca Trail from your bucket list? Start with hiking the Laugavegur Trail , the most famous trail in Iceland, before moving on to the Tour du Mont Blanc , a trek that spans 110 miles and three different countries. Or you can test yourself on Sicily’s GR20 hike , the toughest trail in Europe. If you’ve still got some hiking left in you, it might be time to move onto another continent and the complete the Annapurna Circuit Trek .

They say each step is its own journey, but maybe that’s because they didn’t make it to the city above the clouds. Reach the Lost City on the most epic guided 4-day thru-hike or a women’s Machu Picchu hiking tour .  

Raul Ccolque has lived in the Andes all his life. At 18, Raul started guiding groups along the legendary Inca Trail. Today, he owns Alpaca Expeditions . His guiding service is 100% local and looks to educate clients about Inca culture and way of living, all while taking them on an adventure of their lives!

Read reviews of similar trips

A local’s guide: what is the best time to visit yellowstone, the 5 best hikes in (and around) grand teton national park, how to prepare for thru-hiking the appalachian trail.

Choose a currency

• USD - $ US Dollar
• EUR - € Euro
• AUD - AU$ Australian Dollar
• CAD - CA$ Canadian Dollar
• GBP - £ British Pound Sterling
• CHF - CHF Swiss Franc
• JPY - ¥ Japanese Yen
• SGD - S$ Singapore Dollar
• HKD - HK$ Hong Kong Dollar
• DKK - Dkr Danish Krone
• NOK - Nkr Norwegian Krone
• SEK - Skr Swedish Krona

Inca Trail: The Ultimate Guide

Follow the footsteps of Incan emperors on the way to ancient, captivating citadels surrounded by awe-inspiring nature , and to sites that bring out the inner archaeologist in every visitor. There’s a reason (actually many) that hiking the Inca trail is on the bucket list of so many adventure travellers. The Trail is still the highlight of many trips to South America, living up to the hype.

The downside is that prices go up every year since demand is so high. You also have to book way in advance to ensure you have a spot. Fortunately there are many options for hiking in the area. They offer more than a break from your daily routine. Each one offers an unforgettable and sometimes spiritual experience.

In this article I’ll address the most common questions on the Inca Trail. Then, I’ll list the top adventure hikes from Cusco to Machu Picchu.

Common Questions About the Inca Trail

These are the most common questions about the Inca Trail. While the questions are specifically about the normal Inca Trail, most relate to other hikes in Cusco, too.

How Do I Get There?

Good question! You have to get to Cuzco in order to do the Inca trail. From Cuzco you’ll take a train or bus to the starting point of the Trail. Your tour operator will likely include transportation from your hotel in Cuzco.

The best time to hike in Cusco is from May through October. The rainy season starts around November and ends in April. Because of this, the best time to go is May. The landscape is green from months of rain, and it’s not yet peak tourist season (June-August).

The non-peak, dry months (April, May, September, and October) are best for finding good deals and last-minute reservations. Finally, I don’t recommend these hikes during the peak of the rainy season (January and February). In February the Inca Trail and Machu Picchu are closed.

The summer solstice ( Inti Raymi ) is the most popular time to go. The people of Cusco hold cultural and religious ceremonies that are centuries old. Of course, prices are at their highest and it’s difficult to find a hotel or tour operator if not done in advance (at least 3 months is best). Another popular time is Peru’s Independence Day (July 28th).

How To Choose A Tour Operator

This is a loaded question! First, make sure they have good reviews and a commitment to ethical tourism. That includes sustainable tourism but also a commitment to fair wages. Some companies like Cachi work directly with local communities on projects, too.

Avoid choosing the cheapest operator at first glance. Some companies don’t include the full package (entrance to Machu Picchu, train ticket, food, etc.). For this reason you should read the fine print on what is, and what isn’t, included in the listed price.

Most operators provide guides in English. So if you share my talent for making embarrassing mistakes in Spanish, no worries ;)

How Much does the Inca Trail Cost? Should I Tip?

Again, you must use a tour operator to do the Inca Trail (it’s the law!). So the price depends on the company. And these vary in quality. However you can find tours for under $500/person. Public tours, in which any person can join until the quota is full, are cheaper.

For more private tours (ie, your group only), the hike is more expensive but you’ll get a more personalized experience. A good price for a private tour is $750/person.

Tipping is not customary in Peru but is common in touristy areas. Something like S/ 10 per day to your porter, cook, and guide goes a long way, though.

What Should I Pack?

Most companies provide food, shelter (tent), water, hiking poles, rain poncho, and cooking gear. Double check with your tour company, though. You should bring these for the Inca Trail or its alternatives:

• Camera + batteries
• Insect repellant
• Hand sanitizer
• Soap (if you want to use the very basic shower accommodations along the trail)
• Good hiking shoes or boots
• Baseball cap
• Cold weather jacket
• 1 change of clothes
• Water bottle
• Sleeping bag

What’s The Food Like?

Again, it depends on the tour company! But Peruvians are very proud of their food . Because of this many reviews of the Inca Trail mention the unexpectedly good food!

What Are the Accommodations?

You’ll sleep in a tent or under the stars at night. The bathrooms and showers are basic, and you’ll probably wait in line for a toilet. There is running water but no electricity (wear your headlamp at night :))

Do I Need Travel Insurance?

It’s HIGHLY recommended to get travel insurance for Peru. Peru has a universal health system, but often it’s best to use a private facility or clinic. Make sure your plan covers all activities on your trip.

If you’re traveling from the USA, contact your health care provider. Many plans in fact include travel (but for some reason don’t make it obvious…).

How Difficult is the Hike?

Overall the Inca Trail is a moderately difficult trail. Day 2 is difficult, as you’ll go over Dead Woman’s Pass at 4,600 meters (15,000 feet) above sea level.

Each day can vary a bit according to your preference or that of your guide. But almost all tours start at at KM82 outside of Ollantaytambo. Day 1 is easy and can take 5-6 hours total of hiking. You’ll probably hike 9 km (5.6 miles) and finish the day at Wayllabamba.

On Day 2 the difficulty increases dramatically as you ascend for 7 km (4.3 miles) to Dead Woman’s Pass. Then you’ll descend for 5 km (3.1 miles) to Paccamayu, at 3,600 meters (11,800 feet) above sea level.

Day 3 is often the longest hike. You might hike all the 16 km (10 miles) to Wiñayhuayna. This day will include multiple archaeological sites and mountain passes, and is normally considered to be moderately difficult.

You wake up early on Day 4 (think 4AM) to get to Machu Picchu in time for sunrise at the Sun Gate. The walk is considered easy and you have the morning to tour the site before taking the train back to Ollantaytambo, Urubamba, or Cusco.

Will I Get Altitude Sickness?

Most people encounter altitude sickness in Cusco or the Inca Trail. The symptoms are usually a headache and fatigue, but can become serious (vomiting) if you don’t take time to acclimate.

Therefore spend at least 2 days in Cusco or the Sacred Valley before you go hiking the Inca Trail. The Trail ascends to 4,600 meters above sea level (15,000 feet), so you want to be as acclimated to the altitude as possible before starting.

I loved coca tea with sugar when I had altitude sickness, and chewing the leaves works too. The taste is a little bitter but the leaves give you a boost. Consider buying altitude sickness pills if you aren’t sure how your body will react.

Does The Ticket Include Machu Picchu?

Yes , at least for the regular Inca Trail. The ticket should include the Inca Trial and Machu Picchu. This is because you arrive at the Sun Gate on Day 4 of the Inca Trail.

The official website for buying tickets to Machu Picchu, Huaynu Picchu, and Machu Picchu Mountain is here .

To buy tickets in Cusco, go to the Direccion Regional de Cultura at Avenida de la Cultura 238, Condominio Huáscar, in Cusco. The office is open Monday-Saturday from 7:15AM to 6:30PM. Bring your passport. You can pay in cash or with card.

What If There’s An Emergency?

It’s understandable to worry about this, since you aren’t close to medical facilities on the trail. If someone really doesn’t feel well or has an accident, they are usually brought down the trail to the nearest highway or train tracks. In extreme cases a helicopter may be used. However, this is rare.

The most common cause of sickness is from the altitude. So, take time to acclimatize while in Cuzco, and definitely pick a reputable tour agency.

Now we’ve gone over the most common questions on the Inca Trail. So let’s dive into your hiking options, starting with the “regular” 4-day Inca Trail:

The OG- The “Real” Inca Trail

Although kind of a misnomer, the original Inca Trail still receives the highest number of hikers, and for good reason. This is an epic trek that strategically ends at Machu Picchu on sunrise on the final day. It’s a 43-km (26.7 mile), 4-day journey that only 500 hikers are permitted to enter daily.

You’ll see impressive archaeological sites, go up to 4,600 meters above sea level (15,000 feet), and witness how the Incas incorporated buildings into the beauty of the Andes. Because it’s so regulated and limited, try to book your Inca Trail tour at least half a year in advance. The hike starts at km 88 of the railway, next to the village of Ollantaytambo.

There is also a shorter version of the trail , lasting 2 days.

Alternative Hikes to Inca Trail (Ending at Machu Picchu)

This is the most popular adventure alternative to the original Inca Trail to Machu Picchu. It’s regarded as the nature-lover’s and adventurer’s option. Because of this, Salktantay is a bit more difficult and is longer (5-7 days depending on the route) than the Inca Trail.

The hike is centered on the Salkantay snowcapped mountain, an important mountain god in Quechua culture that dominates the landscape at 6,217 meters (20,397 feet) in height. This trail does not end at Machu Picchu, but tour operators include the ticket to the Incan city as part of the overall package. It starts at the same spot as the Inca Trail, next to Ollantaytambo. With the proper planning you can do this hike by yourself, too.

Extreme Inka

I love this option because it’s perfect for someone like me, who can’t decide on what activity to do! This involves hiking and mountain biking, with ziplining and rafting offered by tour operators as well. It’s a 3-4 day adventure that takes the “back way” to Machu Picchu, making it potentially less expensive than the Inca Trail or Salkantay hikes.

You can start this from Cusco. As always, make sure the tour operator is safe and well-regarded, especially since the first part of this adventure is a four-hour bike ride downhill!

Here’s my review of Cachi’s Extreme Inca package if you’re interested in this tour.

Alternative Hikes to Inca Trail (Without Machu Picchu)

The Ausangate tour is another option centered on a sacred snowcapped mountain. This is a five-day hike through rural areas and mountains. Definitely hire a local guide for this route and bring your hiking supplies with you. It’s best to stay in Tinqui for a night before departing.

Choquequirao

Choquequirao is bigger than Machu Picchu, the hike is tougher, there’s less tourists, and there are gigantic LLAMA figures built into the site! What is not to love about it? This four-to-five day hike is 30 km long (18.6 miles) and should be done with a tour operator. Of course, that is just my preference since I’m a light packer and planner. It is possible to bring the necessary equipment and do this trek alone.

You will be practically alone in the Inca’s “cradle of gold” (meaning of Choquequirao in Quechua) if you go. First you’ll have to take a car from Cusco to Cachora, a four hour ride.

Vilcabamba & Vitcos

Admittedly, this is for the hard-core adventurers. These tropical sites were the last homes to the rebel Incas as they fought against the invading Spanish, so they are not easy to access. The hikes themselves are not considered as difficult as the ones above, however do go via a tour operator or at least with a local guide (and all the necessary trekking equipment). 

You can actually take a bus to Espiritu Pampa (Vilcabamba’s modern name) from Cusco via Quillabamba. This is an 8-11 hour journey. There are places to stay in Quillabamba. From there, it takes under 3 hours to get to Espiritu Pampa. Vitcos is 5km (3.1 miles) further.

Once At Machu Picchu

Machu Picchu is big, so make sure your train ticket back allows for at least a few hours at the site. I recommend adding on Huaynu Picchu if you have one day. This is a vertigo-inducing hike, often with the assistance of ropes, to a peak overlooking the Urubamba river and Machu Picchu. Tickets for Huaynu Picchu sell out quickly. You have to enter at a designated time, too.

Another option is Machu Picchu Mountain. This is a 3-hour hike up Incan stairs, worth it for the view of everything below. But I wouldn’t do this if you only have half a day in Machu Picchu, or else your whole experience will be going up and down stairs (much like I did the first time I planned a Machu Picchu trip).

Keep in mind you can take a tour of Machu Picchu with the regular ticket. For this reason, Huaynu Picchu and Machu Picchu Mountain are optional.

My Final Tips

Get prepped!! Train for long hikes during the months before your trip. Once in Peru, get acclimated to the altitude by taking it easy in a high-altitude city, like Cusco, for a couple of days.

Oh, and definitely try the coca tea and leaves! They give a great energy boost and help with the altitude, on top of being a cool cultural experience.

And remember there is NO water or food sold in Machu Picchu. 

I recommend buying tickets for everything in Cusco ahead of time, even the less-popular hikes, just in case. For the regular Inca Trail try to buy tickets 3 to 6 months in advance.

Read my article on the Extreme Inca Tour if you’re interested in that or another hiking option with Cachi Life .

Have you done any of these trails, or is there one that I missed? Please comment below to share with the adventure community!

Share this:

Author: Brad

Obviously, I love Peru, and I love writing. I'm from the great state of Delaware. Very opinionated on punk rock and proper arm wrestling techniques. Grateful for each reader and hope to have brightened your day just a bit. Thanks for visiting my site!! View all posts by Brad

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Notify me of follow-up comments by email.

Notify me of new posts by email.

G Adventures Inca Trail Review: What to Expect on The Inca Trail Trek to Machu Picchu

If you’re an enthusiast for epic hikes, mysterious ancient cities and breathtaking scenery, then no doubt hiking the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu will appear somewhere on your travel bucket list. It certainly was near the top of mine!

If you’re thinking of doing the Inca Trail trek, this article is for you! This G Adventures Inca Trail review is packed with tons of useful information about what to expect.

Although most tours will offer a similar itinerary, I choose to do the G Adventures Inca Trail tour. I opted for a few days before the hike, exploring the Sacred Valley, before embarking on the 4 day Inca Trail trek.

You can, of course, visit Machu Picchu as a day trip from Cusco or Aguas Calientes, however, for the more adventurous traveller, I highly recommend the Inca Trail hike. Find out why I chose to hike the Inca Trail with G Adventures. Let’s go!

This post may contain affiliate links. To find out what this means and more information visit my disclosure page .

Why I Wanted to Hike the Inca Trail, Peru

The inca trail altitude sickness, g adventures machu picchu reviews, day 7 – cusco, what’s the typical g adventures age range, what is the inca trail food like, save it for later, the machu picchu inca trail review.

This Inca Trail G Adventures guide is divided into easy-to-digest sections. The first section covers useful information you should know, regardless of which Inca Trail tour you opt for.

The second section goes into specifics about why I chose G Adventures and what to expect – I’ll add that I paid for this trip myself, I was not sponsored by G Adventures to just say positive stuff, so this Machu Picchu hike review is an account based purely on my experience.

The final section is filled with Inca Trail tips and FAQs that I’ve been asked about doing the Machu Picchu Inca Trail hike so you’ll know exactly what to expect when you trek the Inca Trail.

If you don’t have time to read the whole article right now, then you can download this packing list and information sheet straight to your inbox.

The Inca Trail: 7D/6N

✅ Starts & Finishes in Cusco

✅ Tour of the Sacred Valley, Inca Trail & Machu Picchu

✅ Max. group size: 16

✅ No solo travel supplement

Your download is on its way to your inbox 🙂

If you’ve followed this blog for a while, you’ll have learnt about my obsession with ancient civilisations and ruins. I blame this on when I was a kid. 

I used to love this cartoon called ‘ The Mysterious Cities of Gold ‘ which followed the adventures of three children and their hunt for this ancient lost city in South America – although it wasn’t strictly based on Peruvian ancient sites , it planted the seed for a love for ancient civilizations.

Since then, The Inca Trail in Peru had been on my bucket list for what felt like ever and was top of my must-see things in Peru. 

Inca Trail Adventure Tour – Know Before You Go

Until 1911, the Lost City of the Inca remained forgotten until the explorer Hiram Bingham III discovered it. He was actually looking for a different ancient city but stumbled across the ruins of Machu Picchu. 

The beautifully preserved ancient site had been hidden away for centuries until its discovery. Today, the Inca Trail hike to Machu Picchu is one of Peru’s most iconic landmarks and top attractions.

How Long Is the Inca Trail Trek?

The Inca Trail trek is a 43 km (26 mi) journey through stunning landscapes, ancient ruins, and diverse ecosystems. The Inca Trail tour I chose was spread over 4 days, ending the journey at the amazing Machu Picchu in Peru.

How High Is Inca Trail?

The Inca Trail’s highest section is known as ‘Dead Woman’s Pass,’ climbing up to approximately 4,215 meters above sea level. This is the part of the trail most people struggle on because of the altitude. The ruins of Machu Picchu rest at an elevation of 2,430 meters above sea level.

How Long Does It Take To Hike the Inca Trail?

Depending on which tour you take, the Inca Trail hike takes 2 to 4 days. This offers different options for trekkers. Some complete it in 2 days, while others prefer a more leisurely 4-day journey – the longer trek gives you more time to take in the diverse landscapes and ancient sites along the trail.

⭐️ MONEY SAVING TIP ⭐️

If you’re on a budget, and want to save 💰💰💰 you can check here to see which Inca Trail G Adventures tours are on sale .

Inca Trail Difficulty

If you’re a bit anxious about the Inca Trail hike difficulty, then you’ll be pleased to hear that it’s only classed as a moderate-level hike, so technically most people can do it. However, parts of it are demanding. What makes it tough is that the 43 km (26 mi) route is at a high altitude with several steep inclines.

As long as you have a good level of fitness you will be fine. If you do have issues with your knees, make sure you take a pair of hiking poles, some of the downward sections are very tough on your joints.

You can prepare for your Inca Trail adventure by doing local day hikes in your home country, or if you’re not near anywhere with steep inclines, then join a gym that has treadmills and set them to incline mode.

The great thing, and what I mention later in my Inca Trail review, is that G Adventures provides two guides. One will lead from the front of the group, and the other guide stays at the back of the group and walks at the pace of the slowest person. There was no pressure at any point to have to keep up with the fastest people in the group.

The Best Time to Trek the Inca Trail

Peru has two seasons; the dry season (April – November) and the wet season (December – March). You can hike The Inca Trail all year round, except for February. Each year the Inca Trail shuts for a month for essential maintenance work, so it’s worth bearing this in mind before you plan your trip to Peru. 

The ruins of Machu Picchu itself are open all year round, and there are alternate hiking routes, such as the Lares Trek , if the official Inca Trail is shut.

The best time to trek Inca Trail is either May or October, this is because it’s slightly warmer and dryer than June, July and August, which is the peak time for tourists (which also coincides with summer vacations in the northern hemisphere).

The temperature on the Inca Trail and Machu Picchu can vary. At certain times of the year, night-time temperatures can drop to freezing. In August, daytime temperatures are around 20°C/68°F and drop to 12°C/54°F at night (and even colder). In December temperatures are about 26˚C/79˚F during the day and approximately 16˚C/61˚F at night.

The weather on the Inca Trail, as I experienced, can vary a lot. I did the trek in January which was right in the middle of the rainy season but had a mix of gloriously sunny days followed by wind and rain the next. Ideally, you’ll most likely want to visit when the weather on Inca Trail is dryer, so aim from April onwards.

Altitude sickness is a very real thing, although it affects everyone slightly differently. Ideally, you’ll want to spend a couple of days in Cusco before starting on any of the Inca Trail hiking tours so your body can acclimatise.

I was in Lake Titicaca (3,810 meters above sea level) and Cusco (3,249 meters above sea level) for about a week before I did the Inca Trail, so my body was used to the thinner air. Initially, I had mild headaches, tingly fingers and feet and was a bit out of breath. I just took it easy, relaxed and the feeling passed in a couple of days.

As a generalisation, to feel the effects of altitude sickness, you’ll need to be above 2,500 meters. The highest part of the Inca Trail is a section called ‘Dead Woman’s Pass’ which is around 4,215 meters above sea level. The ruins of Machu Picchu sit at 2,430 meters above sea level.

Travel Insurance for Inca Trail

Because of the nature of the Inca Trail hike to Machu Picchu, you need to make sure you have suitable travel insurance. At our pre-departure briefing, our guides checked our insurance documents to see if we were covered.

Inca trail trekking requires specific insurance , so you need to check that your policy covers you for high-altitude hiking. Most general travel insurance doesn’t cover this as standard. 

Although you won’t probably find a specific Inca Trail insurance, you’ll at least be able to get a policy that covers you to an altitude of more than 5,000 meters.

The go-to company I always use (and that will give you Inca Trail travel insurance) is True Traveller . Any time I’ve had an issue, they’ve been really quick at sorting the problem. The downside for my US (or rest of world) readers is that they only cover European travellers. A great alternative is World Nomads which will offer insurance for hiking the Inca Trail.

⭐️ True Traveller specialises in Adventure Travel ⭐️

The great thing is you can tailor your policy to cover exactly what you need – so you’re not paying for any cover you don’t need.

They have an option to bolt on coverage for altitude hiking, such as the Inca Trail.

G Adventures Inca Trail Review

I have done quite a few trips already with G Adventures, and every time, I was very impressed with them, from the itineraries they offered, the travel style and of course the guides and staff.

I’m always a bit dubious about booking on to any group tour, I’m mostly a solo traveller so being with a bunch of other people makes me quite angst about not having the freedom I would usually have with independent travel.

While I was researching the Inca Trail, I also knew I was only interested in doing it with one of the best Inca trail tour companies. I’d read awful stories of some companies not treating the staff properly in terms of not providing them with suitable equipment, or paying them a fair wage.

NOTE: This is NOT a sponsored article. G Adventures did not fund my trip in exchange for me to say nice things about them. I funded this trip myself and based my review on my personal experiences. All views and opinions are my own.

Why Choose G Adventures for the Inca Trail?

I mentioned before about only being interested in joining one of the best Inca Trail tours, although I did read a ton of reviews, as well as delved into what other companies were offering, G Adventures came up tops all around.

It’s true, G Adventures were a little more expensive than some of the other tours I looked at, but when you looked into it, there were a lot of little extras that G Adventures did do and provide, that the competitors didn’t.

• As standard, you’ll have a local and knowledgeable guide – more than that, we had 2 guides. And although they were Peruvian, their English was excellent, so communication was never an issue. Within G Adventures, they call their guides the CEO – in this case, this translates to the Chief Experience Officer.
• One of the key things I was looking for, was how well the staff were treated, in particular the porters (who are absolute superheroes – you’ll find out why later). G Adventures pays their team a fair wage, as well as ensures any equipment is in top nick.
• G Adventures has over 20 years’ worth of experience in offering top-notch tours. Don’t just take my word for it (you can check out these reviews on TourRadar . They certainly know how to provide fantastic small-group tours.
• G Adventures is an ethical company. The Planeterra Foundation was founded by G Adventures in 2003. This foundation focuses on social enterprise in tourism, which ensures that money coming into the area, stays in the area and goes straight to locally owned projects.

Find out more about what G Adventures are doing to help local initiatives here.

• G Adventures is the market leader in the promotion of responsible travel and tourism.
• They also offer their Travel with Confidence Guarantee which gives you peace of mind when booking.
• And this is one of my favourite things about G Adventures, they don’t have a solo traveller surcharge. This means I wasn’t penalised for not booking as a couple – so this got a big thumbs up.
• If you’re still not convinced, then you can read more G Adventures Machu Picchu reviews here . 

Which G Adventures Machu Picchu Adventure Was Right for Me?

G Adventures offers several different tours that incorporate trekking the Inca Trail. Originally, I was just going to do the 4-day tour, but I opted for the one called ‘The Inca Trail’, which is their 7-day tour .

I ended up choosing this tour as it included other ruins in the Sacred Valley that I wanted to see anyway, and would have been a hassle to get to on my own. The 7-day option also included my original plan of the 4-day Inca Trail hike to Machu Picchu.

Trekking The Inca Trail: 4D/3N

✅ Inca Trail & Machu Picchu

Amazon to Andes: 12D/11N

✅ Starts & Finishes in Lima

✅ Tour of the Sacred Valley, Inca Trail & Machu Picchu, & Amazon

✅ Max. group size: 12

What’s Included in the G Adventure Machu Picchu Inca Trail Tour?

Naturally, this will differ slightly depending on which tour you book. I opted to do this 7 day Inca Trail tour , however, these things will be included with the price of the 4 day Inca Trail trek part on all of the tours I suggested above;

• G Adventures Cusco representative
• Accommodation in a hotel in Cusco the night before you depart.
• Inca Trail guided hike, with guides, porters and cooks during the 4 days on the Inca Trail
• Specialist Inca Trail CEO – Chief Experience Officer
• A guided tour of Machu Picchu plus free time to explore on your own.
• Private transport, in a comfortable mini-van between destinations and to/from included activities
• All meals included – Your breakfast, lunches and dinners (while on the Inca Trail).
• Scenic train ride back from Aguas Calientes
• Camping equipment (tent, sleeping bag, inflatable mattress etc.)
• Inca Trail Permit and entrance ticket to Machu Picchu

Everything was so easy as it’s all been planned for you so you just have to turn up and have fun! Hannah C, TrustPilot on the The Inca Trail: 7D/6N Tour

Everything was fantastic from the information leading up to departure to the team of people that worked on the mountain. I couldn’t thank them enough. Ben T, TrustPilot on the The Inca Trail: 7D/6N Tour

Looking for more G Adventures Inca Trail reviews, then head here to find out more.

Benefits of Taking a Group Inca Trail Tour to Machu Picchu

I nearly always travel solo, not because I’m anti-social, but more for freedom and convenience. However, sometimes, it’s nice to share an experience with other people. Although I will always love independent travel, there are benefits to doing small group tours.

• Someone else deals with the organisation and planning for you.
• You get to share the experience and connect with like-minded people
• You get a ton of insider knowledge from your guide
• Small group tours are great for making new friends 
• And of course, there’s no more struggling to take photos of yourself, and you’ll have tons of photos to share to remind you of the antics from your Inca Trail adventures.

Machu Picchu Hike Review – The Inca Trail to Machu Picchu

If you are looking for an adventure of a lifetime, you should definitely consider hiking the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu. In this section, I will share with you my experience of the Machu Picchu hike with G Adventures and why I think it is one of the best things you can do in Peru.

Day 1 – Cusco

My 7 day Inca Trail trek started in Cusco. I had already been in Cusco for a few days before starting the tour, so didn’t have to worry about altitude sickness – my body had already acclimatised as I had been at Lake Titicaca (3,810 meters above sea level) before arriving in Cusco (3,249 meters above sea level). My day in the UNESCO city was fairly relaxed, as I waited for the rest of the group to arrive.

If you’re flying straight to Cusco from a low-altitude city, such as Lima, then I recommend arriving a couple of days before your Inca Trail trip starts to allow your body to acclimatise.

In the late afternoon, we all gathered in our hotel where we were introduced to the rest of our group and our guides, after the introductions, we had our briefing and were given more details on what to expect over the coming week. We also got to ask questions as well as do our all-important equipment check.

It’s useful to know that Cusco has a lot of outdoor shops. If you forgot to pack something for the Inca Trail , don’t panic, you will have a chance on this day to pick something up.

One of the things the guides will need to see during the briefing is your travel insurance .

If you don’t have a policy that covers you for altitude hiking, you will have to purchase it now. You need to make sure your policy covers you for hiking up to 5k altitude.

Day 2 – The Sacred Valley and Ollantaytambo

We had an early start and after a tasty breakfast at our hotel and our last-minute packing, we were all set. Our tour of the Sacred Valley started with a visit to the Women’s Weaving Co-op and then to see locally produced pottery at Ccaccaccollo Community.

Both of these projects are supported by the G Adventures Planeterra scheme . Part of G Adventures’ mission is to put tourist money straight back into the local communities, and these women-owned initiatives were two successful outcomes of this. 

If you’ve been to Peru any time, you can’t fail but notice the strikingly rich and colourful textiles. If you’re looking for an authentic textile gift from Peru, this is where you’ll find it.

We stopped for a hearty lunch at the G Adventures-supported Parwa Community Restaurant in Huchuy Qosco. I’ll talk more about the food as I go on, but just as a heads up, – ALL the food I ate on this trip was phenomenal!

After lunch, we set off for the valley town of Ollantaytambo. You’ll have a guided tour of the ruins, before having free time to explore the site. You’ll then head back to the picturesque cobblestoned town. 

The town has a very relaxed feel to it, however, there are a couple of shops which are tailored towards anyone walking the Inca Trail who has forgotten something. I think most of our group bought a walking pole (they were essentially a broom handle, with a little colourful embroidered cover over the top). If you don’t have actual walking poles, I suggest getting one of these sticks.

It’s a good idea to spend the evening relaxing. But if you get the opportunity, I highly recommend visiting one of the local Chicherias and trying their locally made purple beer made from fermented corn!

Day 3 – The Inca Trail – Setting Off

We had another early start – there’s a theme running here! – to give us time to have a decent breakfast and pack our stuff. This is the last bit of civilisation you’ll see for the next few days. If you’re wondering what to take on Inca Trail, there is a list a little later on. 

If you have any large pieces of luggage or items with you, that you don’t plan to carry on the Inca Trail, then you can leave them at the hotel. Only pack your essentials, because you’ll be carrying them for the next few days.

From Ollantaytambo, it’s an 82km drive to the start of the Machu Picchu trek. When we arrived, of course, we took advantage of a great photo opportunity at the start of the trail. This is where we met the rest of our crew; the porters and the cooks along with all the camping equipment. This is now officially where The Inca Trail begins.

This first day of hiking feels more like a pleasant stroll through the countryside. You’ll ease into the adventure with a straightforward day of hiking along the meandering streams and rivers and through stunning Andean scenery passing by ancient Incan ruins and stopping regularly to take it all in.

You’ll soon learn that the porters have the power of superhumans. They will carry everything (apart from your personal items), overtake you on the trail, and set up the camp for when you arrive.

The first evening at the camp was comfortable with a hearty meal washed down with coca tea. After dinner and with a full belly, everyone had that relaxed feeling. 

Some of us stayed up chatting for a while in the communal tent, while others slipped off to their own tents. The air is very cool at night, so certainly pack some warm layers to sleep in if you feel the cold easily.

Day 4 – The Inca Trail – Dead Woman’s Pass

We were woken early by the crew with a delicious cup of warming coca tea as well as a basin of hot water so we could wash. I’ll go into more about washing on the Inca Trail in the FAQ section below.

If you’re not sure what coca tea is, it’s the dried leaves of the coca plant, the same plant that cocaine comes from, steeped in boiling water. Coca tea is legal in lots of South America and it can help alleviate the effects of altitude sickness. It also has a slight numbing effect if you chew the leaves. However, don’t try to bring it back as a souvenir as it’s illegal in lots of countries.

Today is when you climb the highest part of the Inca Trail as it follows a long and steady incline to Warmiwañusca – aka Dead Woman’s Pass.

The weather on the Inca Trail can be inclement. In contrast to the fabulous weather we have had so far, today it rained! A LOT! So needless to say, this wasn’t my favourite day on the Inca Trail. If you suffer badly from altitude sickness, or you didn’t have enough time before this trip to acclimatize, you will feel it the most today.

The hike, at the highest point, reaches 4,198m. I’d consider myself a fairly fit person, however, with the altitude it’s exhausting and I needed to stop at regular intervals.

The great thing about having two guides on the Inca Trail is that on tough parts of the trail, like today, one guide will stay at the front of the group, and one will stay at the back of the group. This meant that there was no pressure if someone needed to walk slowly and take a lot of breaks.

By the time I reached the top of Dead Woman’s Pass, the rain was beginning to ease. The rain had made the route down the other side incredibly slippery. This was one of those times when the walking pole was an absolute saviour, and I was thankful for the extra support they gave as I was scrambling my way over the slippery boulders and steps.

Of course, our fabulous porters and cooks had run on ahead, up the steep incline of Dead Woman’s Pass, and down the treacherous other side, had set up camp and cooked; all by the time we arrived. Everyone in our group was constantly in awe at the stamina and strength of these guys.

Day 5 – The Inca Trail – Cloud Forest & Ruins

After a well-deserved rest from yesterday’s tough hike, I was glad to hear today would be a little gentler….a little, However, today’s section of The Inca Trail covered two passes. The first one is Runquraqay at 3,950m.

We got up, packed and set off (and of course, our superhero porters managed to pack up camp and overtake us). Eventually, we reached the summit when our guide stopped at the top and pointed out a cloudy spot on the horizon. 

On a clear day, we should have been able to see a snow-capped mountain called Cordillera Vilcabamba. Unfortunately, there was too much cloud to even get a glimpse. 

The trail then started to descend and headed down into the Cloud Forest, before ascending again. I kept my fingers crossed in the hope of seeing one of the shy spectacled bears. In the UK, the adventures of Paddington Bear were a big thing during my childhood. The cute character, Paddington Bear was a spectacled bear, and according to the books, he came from deepest darkest Peru !

The terrain starts to incline again, the highest part of this pass is 3,700m. On this section of the Inca Trail, we got to walk amongst the ruins of an ancient Incan settlement. 

Eventually, we reached the ruins of Phuyupatamarca which translates to the “town above the clouds.” Quite an apt name seeing as we’re at 3,650m! Of course, we had some time here to either sit, relax and admire the view, or explore the ruins.

The trail looks down on the Urubamba Valley, which makes an amazing panoramic shot. After our break at the ruins, we continued our downhill meander before moving on to tonight’s camp at Wiñay Wayna ruins at a much more comfortable 2,650 meters.

Day 6 – The Inca Trail – Sun Gate to Machu Picchu

So, if you thought the previous few days had uncomfortably early starts, then you’ll hate today. The final day of the hike starts before the sun is even up. We were woken at 3.30 with a hot cup of coca tea to try to entice us out of our warm beds.

The reason for the unearthly wake-up time was that we wanted to be at the Sun Gate to see the sun rising, casting the first rays of light over the ancient city of Machu Picchu. After packing up and setting off by torchlight, and scrambling along the trail in the dark (note: take a decent head torch!) we eventually reached the Sun Gate.

As romantic as the idea sounded to see the sunrise over Machu Picchu, we had clouds that morning. The promised ‘Sun Gate’ was certainly more of a ‘cloud gate’ on this day. We did have fun taking photos, pointing to where the gate should have been before setting off again.

Our group made it down to Machu Picchu as the clouds began to break. Although I had seen countless images of the lost city, nothing quite prepared me for how stunning it was in real life.

It’s every bit as impressive as the guidebooks state and more! I was also pleasantly surprised that it’s a lot bigger in real life than any photo makes out (unlike the portrait of the Mona Lisa in Paris, which is disappointingly small).

Thankfully, the clouds were just beginning to break as we arrived, and then the elusive sun came out to show off Machu Picchu in all her glory.

Once you arrive at Machu Picchu, you’ll be ushered down to the ticket gate to check-in, and meet your official guide to the site. Our tour lasted a couple of hours, before being given free time to explore the ruins by ourselves. 

The great thing about being at the site so early was that we had the place nearly to ourselves. As the morning went on, the crowds seemed to multiply.

While you’re exploring the site, be sure to walk out to the Inca Bridge. This tiny, unassuming bridge looks like it’s just been balanced on the cliff face. This used to be one of the routes into the city. You cannot walk across it, and even if I could, I’m not sure I’d want to take my chances on this skinny piece of wood resting over the sheer drop of the valley down below.

After perusing as much Machu Picchu, as possible, our group reconvened to catch the tourist bus down to the town of Aguas Calientes. The town is a bustling hive of activity, and although a bit on the shabby side, certainly had a buzz about it. It’s famed for its hot waters, hence the name.

You’ll have a bit of time in the town, however, after the insanely early start, most of our group was happy to relax until our train arrived. 

The train has a very retro feel to it, as it trundles away along through the Sacred Valley on the route back to Ollantaytambo. The train has windows on the ceiling, so you really do get a panoramic view of the scenery.

We arrived back in Ollantaytambo, where we collected the luggage we had left there, before heading back to Cusco in the minivan.

This was our final day, where we said goodbye to our guides and our tight-knit unit. I opted to stay another day in Cusco, exhilarated yet exhausted and reflecting on the outstanding Inca Trail experience I’d just had.

So, is hiking the Inca Trail worth it? 100% yes. 

The whole experience exceeded my expectations, I’m so glad I chose the G Adventures Inca Trail . I can wholeheartedly say this was the best Inca Trail tour I could have hoped for.

There is nothing I would change. Ok, so perhaps the weather, but that aside, I would do the whole experience, exactly the same if I ever get the opportunity. 

If you’re in the early stages of planning your Inca Trail Machu Picchu tour, then certainly consider any one of the G Adventures Machu Picchu tours .

G Adventures Inca Trail Packing List

This is just a glance at essential items to consider when packing for Inca Trail . One thing to be mindful of is to keep your packing to a minimum because you will be carrying it for the entire 4 days. 

You can download a fully comprehensive packing list here, but this is a quick list of essentials that I 100% recommend you take with you.

• Hiking Day Bag – Invest in a good quality, comfortable hiking pack. Go for one with a waist strap to take the weight off your shoulders and ideally one with loops on to attach your walking poles. It’s also useful to have one with an inbuilt rain cover.
• Walking Poles – Although your ego might stop you from wanting to use these, I 100% advise you to brush the ego aside and use the damn walking poles. I have a long-term issue with my knee – it dislocates at random times, but it’s fine if I manage it properly. I know I would have really struggled without my walking poles. There are a lot of stairs and elevations to go up and down and even for people without knee problems, the Inca Trail takes it out on your joints. I use a fairly technical walking pole because of my knee problem. I use a lightweight aluminium pole, with a cork handle and spring suspension. However, there are more basic models available. 

• Hiking Boots – The main thing to consider in hiking boots for Inca Trail, is that they are comfortable. Make sure you have broken them in BEFORE you do the Inca Trail. It’s also worth making sure they are waterproof and have a decent tread. 
• Rain and Windproof Jacket – The weather can be changeable in the mountains, and my lasting memory of the Dead Woman’s Pass section of the trail was that it was wet and windy. Be sure to pack water and a windproof jacket for this. It’s also worth having a plastic poncho to put over the top of both you and your bag to keep the water out.
• Flannel, plastic bags and eco-toilet paper – These are all linked to keeping clean on the Inca Trail. There are no real bathrooms along it. You’ll get given a basin of warm water to wash in at the camps, use a flannel so you can have a full-body wash inside your tent. For the toilet, my preference was to use the bushes and eco-toilet paper. If you have any sanitary products, put these in a little plastic bag and dispose of them at the camp.
• Power Bank – There are no power outlets on the Inca Trail. So if you have electronics that will need charging, take a high-capacity power bank.
• Head Torch – You will need this throughout the Inca Trail, especially on day 4 when you have to trek in the dark to get to the Sun Gate. It’s best to go for a powerful head torch, to light the path clearly, and so you still have your hands free to use your walking poles.
• Money for Tips – Although you won’t be able to buy much while on the Inca Trail, it’s a good idea to have some cash to tip the porters and chefs. The team did an outstanding job over the 4 days of the Inca Trail and certainly deserves to be tipped for it. G Adventures recommends around 50 US Dollars for this.
• Snacks for Inca Trail – Although the food is top-notch on the Inca Trail, it’s you might want to stock up on snacks to nibble on between mealtimes. Things that always travel well and are good for energy are dried fruits and nuts and for an instant sugar hit then sweets or biscuits. 

This is only a shortlist of the essential items that you might overlook. I have written a comprehensive list of everything you need to pack in this handy download: what to pack: Inca Trail .

Other Useful Infomation & Tips for the Machu Picchu Inca Trail Trek With G Adventures

In this section, I share some useful information and tips that I’ve not covered so far in this article. 

How Much Money to Take on a G Adventures Inca Trail Tour

It’s no surprise that there are no ATMs along the Inca Trail, so take a bit of cash with you to buy anything along the way. You won’t find any shops along the route, but you’ll sometimes come across one of the locals selling snacks and things.

You’ll also need some cash so you can tip the crew.  They do an outstanding job over the 4 days and I felt they were worthy of a generous tip. G Adventures gives a suggested amount of 50 USD – this gets split between all the crew.

Is There a Limit on a G Adventure Group Size?

If you read any of the G Adventures TripAdvisor reviews , you’ll find that one of the things people love about this company is its commitment to keeping group sizes small.  G Adventures specialises in small group experiences.

For the G Adventure Inca Trail tour , the average group size was 12 people although the maximum can be up to 16 people. When I did this tour, we had 10 people in our group.

For the G Adventures Machu Picchu adventure tour , I did, there was no strict age limit. However, under 18s must be accompanied by an adult.

G Adventures attracts travellers who want to experience the culture of the destination with like-minded people regardless of age. I have been on several G Adventures tours with 20-somethings right up to people who had retired! 

Although our group certainly knew how to have fun, if you are looking for a more party-style tour company geared at the 18-35 age group, I would look at a different group hiking Inca Trail tour such as this Inca Trail Tour by Contiki as G Adventures tours aren’t really aimed at party animals.

Other G Adventures Peru Tours You Might Like

If you’re travelling through Peru, G Adventures does some other great adventure holidays that cover more than just the Inca Trail. You might be interested in these tours.

G Adventures Classic Peru

⭐️ RATING: 5/5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 9D/8N | 📍 LOCATION: Lima to Cusco

G Adventures Inca Discovery Plus

⭐️ RATING: 5/5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 9D/8N | 📍 LOCATION: Lima to Lima

G Adventures Absolute Peru Tour

⭐️ RATING: 5/5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 21D/20N | 📍 LOCATION: Lima to Lima

If you’re still undecided, then check out what other travellers say you can check out G Adventures Peru Reviews and the G Adventures Machu Picchu review here .

Read Next: Hikes In Peru That Aren’t The Inca Trail

Inca Trail With G Adventures – FAQs

Wow if you’re still reading – well done! I’ve given you a ton of info so far, you’re probably feeling a mix of overwhelm and excitement, which is exactly how I felt before I hiked the Inca Trail. 

In this final section, I answer some of the frequently asked questions that come up about doing the Inca Trail hike. 

The Classic Inca Trail Route is a total of 26 miles or 41 km. Typically it takes 4 days to complete. while reaching a maximum elevation of 13,828 feet (4,215 meters). The trek is challenging, but with a good fitness routine before the hike, most hikers complete the trek.

How Many Days in Cusco Before Inca Trail? 

This depends on how quickly you acclimatise. I was at Lake Titicaca for several days before coming to Cusco. Lake Titicaca is at a higher altitude than Cusco, so I had already acclimatised. If you’re flying straight to Cusco from Lima, then you’ll want at least a couple of days before the Inca Trail to get used to the altitude. 

How High Is the Inca Trail?

The highest point Inca Trail reaches is 4,215 meters 13,828 feet, this is on the second day when you walk the Dead Woman’s Pass section. The rest of the trail undulates, with other peaks at Runquraqay at 3,950 meters and Phuyupatamarca at 3,650 meters.

Most Inca trail trips take place over 4 days, although it is possible to do the same route but over 2 days instead. Check availability 2 day Inca Trail here. Because of the altitude, incline and having enough time to enjoy and take in the scenery, the 4 days Inca Trail is the most popular choice. 

Can You Hike the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu Independently?

It’s not encouraged to hike the Inca Trail by yourself unless you’re a very experienced hiker and camper. You’ll also have to arrange things like transportation and permits for Inca Trail plus have a good knowledge of the route. All of this is taken care of with any of the tours you book. 

Do I Need a Training Plan for Inca Trail?

In theory, if you’re an active person in your regular day-to-day life, then you won’t need to do any special training before doing The Inca Trail. However, even the fittest people can feel the effects of being active at altitude.

There is no Inca Trail fitness level required, however, if you’re not very active, or have never hiked then I would suggest doing some regular full-day hikes in your home country in the lead-up to your trip. This is also a good opportunity to test out your kit, check to see if your backpack is comfortable, break in your walking shoes and try out your hiking poles.

Where Can I Find a Map of the Inca Trail?

If you’ve ever thought, where is the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, and interested in seeing exactly where you’re going to be hiking, you can take a look at the Inca Trail map below – this is the official one from G Adventures that we were shown during our briefing. 

You can also download the map, packing list and information sheet for offline viewing.

How Do You Wash on the Inca Trail?

There are no showers on the Inca Trail. The two options for keeping clean are either using wet wipes, which on the whole aren’t good for the environment, plus, you’ll also have loads of waste to carry.

The alternative way to wash is by using a basin, which is the better option. In the morning, the porters will bring around a bowl of warm clean water to wash in. Packaging a flannel and a small travel towel is useful so you can wash your body inside your tent.

Where Do You Go to the Toilet on the Inca Trail?

At the camps, there are sometimes two options for toilet facilities. Either a little pop-up tent with a portable toilet inside that the porter will set up, or sometimes there is a toilet block. I found the toilet blocks REALLY dirty and smelly, so I never used them.

The main way that people go to the toilet during the Inca Trail, is in the bushes. Generally, in our group, we went in pairs, so one could keep a watch out while the other could do their ‘business’ in privacy. Peeing and pooping in the bushes is fine, just bury or cover it after and try to use eco-friendly toilet paper.

If you have sanitary products, then put these in a little plastic bag and dispose of them when you get to the camps as they will not decompose.

During the four days of our Inca Trail and Machu Picchu tour , we were fed delicious and wholesome foods. Out of our group of 10, there were 3 vegetarians, I was one of them – if you have other dietary requirements, make it known in advance, both at the time of booking the Inca Trail as well as to the representative before you set off on your tour.  It’s worth noting that I was never hungry, and portion sizes were plentiful. Food was always freshly prepared and cooked. 

Normally, breakfast was either porridge, pancakes or toast along with coffee, black tea or coca tea you might also get given little snacks for the day, typically fresh fruit or a cereal bar. 

Lunches were typically a healthy and hearty soup, either with chicken or vegetables and nearly always served with quinoa and grains. Sometimes it would also come with a side dish of sweet potato, avocados and bread. They are quite carb-heavy to give you the energy. One person in our group had a birthday during the Inca Trail, and they even baked a cake for her!

For dinner, typically the chef will prepare things like stews, grilled meats or vegetables all served with either bread, quinoa or grains. Sometimes there is a dessert if you can manage it. Again, there is coca tea to drink. 

At the camp food is served inside a large communal tent along with a long table with enough seating for everyone, so even if the weather is bad outside, you’ll have somewhere warm and sheltered to eat and socialise.

Thinking of Doing the Inca Trail Trek to Machu Picchu?

I have zero doubts about recommending this tour to anyone wanting to do The Inca Trail. If you were asking yourself at any point, is the Inca Trail worth it, then I can wholeheartedly say yes, absolutely. I know I’d do the Inca Trail trek again in an instant!

Although other companies are offering similar tours, if you’re on the fence about choosing a company to use, I highly suggest you take a look at the GAdventures Inca Trail . 

Don’t just take my word for it, go read these other honest Inca Trail to Machu Picchu reviews .

Looking for more reasons to visit Peru? read more inspirational articles here…

• 16 Stunning Ancient Ruins in Peru
• Hikes in Peru that aren’t the Inca Trail
• Animals in Machu Picchu to Try and Spot
• The Complete Packing List for Inca Trail

I hope after reading this full G Adventures Inca Trail Review, you have a good insight into what to expect when you do the Machu Pichu Inca trail hike.

If you enjoyed this post, or know someone who will, then please like and share. If you’re planning to do the G Adventures Peru Inca Trail, why not pin it for future reference?

Have a question about planning your Peru itinerary? then head to the Contact page and drop me a message.

Hey, I'm Becki......and I'm a self-confessed travel addict and experience connoisseur!

In other words, I’m a bucket-list traveller, on a mission to experience the best things our fabulous little planet has to offer with the least environmental impact.

When I'm not climbing mountains, scuba diving, spotting wildlife or exploring ruins, you'll probably find me sipping coffee, or with a glass of wine in hand planning my next adventure.

Similar Posts

Why Visit Petra? 26 Reasons Petra Is Worth Visiting

FacebookTweetPin Are you planning a trip to Jordan and looking for an unforgettable travel experience? Then I 100% recommend…

Camping at the “End of the World”, Arizona

FacebookTweetPin Camping at the End of the World should be on everyone’s United States bucket list. Located deep within…

The Ultimate Greece Bucket List: 31 Best Things to Do in Greece

FacebookTweetPin Looking for the best things to add to your Greece bucket list? You’re in the right place. Greece,…

Husky Dog Sledging in Lapland

FacebookTweetPin One of my absolute favourite experiences to date was to go on a husky dog sledging. And there’s…

Hiking to Tiger’s Nest Monastery in Bhutan

FacebookTweetPin A while back, I watched a show on the National Geographic channel about Bhutan. I knew immediately I…

Mayan Ruins of Chichen Itza, Mexico

FacebookTweetPin As one of the New Seven Wonders of the World, Chichen Itza likely needs no introduction! For some…

• Salkantay Trek
• Inca Jungle Trek
• Huchuy Qosqo Trek
• Ausangate Trek
• Vilcabamba Trek
• Choquequirao Trek
• Huayna Picchu
• Altitude Sickness
• Packing List
• Humantay Lake
• Lake Titicaca
• Nazca Lines
• Rainbow Mountain
• Get A Trek Quote

4-Day Inca Trail – Ultimate Guide To The Classic Trek

The 4-day Inca Trail to Machu Picchu is celebrated as Peru’s most famous hike. This is one of the world’s most iconic trekking experiences and provides an awesome combination of breathtaking landscapes and ancient Incan sites.

This detailed, day-by-day guide of the 4-day Inca Trail is based on my personal experience.

In this article, I will give you insights on what to expect and how to prepare for this adventure of a lifetime.

Get an Inca trail trek quote

Start planning your Machu Picchu hiking holiday.

4-Day Inca Trail - Ultimate Guide To The Classic Trek

4 day / 3 night classic inca trail route and distance.

Our handy route map below shows the 4D/3N Classic route which typically departs from Cusco (3,399m / 11,151 ft) and ends at the iconic ruins of Machu Picchu (2,430m / 7,972 ft).

Please Note:  Regarding camping sites on the route map below, the 4D Inca Trail trek itinerary can vary from tour company to tour company. See more in our article on the best Inca Trail trekking companies for epic 4-day Inca Trail tours. 

The total trek distance from Cusco to Machu Picchu is roughly 45km (26 miles) and reaches a maximum altitude of 4,200m (13,775 ft). It is a moderately challenging trek that can be completed by most people, as long as they are fit and well acclimatized.

You may also like:

• How difficult is the Inca trail
• Training program for the Inca trail
• Avoiding altitude sickness on the Inca trail

What You Need To Know About Booking The Classic 4-Day Inca Trail

The first thing you need to know is that permits sell out fast! The trail is world-famous, so hikers should book their tickets 6 months to a year in advance. Only 500 permits are issued per day and half of those are reserved for porters/guides.

Although the classic trek is 4D/3N, most tour companies will arrange your pre and post-trek hotels. This means most tours are in fact 7D/6N (with one acclimatization day included).

The classic 4-day Inca Trail to Machu Picchu should include your ticket to Machu Picchu. This is usually a Circuit #3 ticket. Most people consider this the best circuit as the tour goes through the citadel and to the top of the mountain. If you want to do another route, then you will need to purchase an additional ticket.

Check out our handy altitude profile for the 4-day Inca Trail below to give you a better idea of the elevation you'll experience during your trek. 

• What to do at Machu Picchu
• Hiking Huayna Picchu
• Machu Picchu history
• Facts about the Inca trail

Looking for a day tour? Here are my 5 favourite day tours around Cusco: 

• Rainbow Mountain day trip (with meals)
• Moray and Salt Mines Quad Bike Tour
• Sacred Valley day tour
• Humantay Lake day tour
• Machu Picchu and Huayna Picchu entrance tickets

See more Cusco day trips .

Why Choose The 4-Day Inca Trail To Machu Picchu?

The Inca Trail is a chance to follow in the footsteps of ancient kings. For many, this is the one-and-only choice to do the original trek to Machu Picchu. Nothing beats the sense of achievement and wonder when you pass through the sun gate after 4 days of trekking.

The 4-Day Inca Trail gives you the best opportunity to see Peru’s sub-tropical Andean mountain environments. Trail habitats include cloud forests, alpine tundra and jungle landscapes. You will get to experience remote areas free from roads and human presence.

The impressive array of Inca archaeological sites is another top reason to hike the Inca Trail . Some of these ruins (Runcuracay, Phuyupatamarca, Wiñayhuayna, and Machu Picchu itself) are worthy of a visit on their own!

• Hiking the short 2-Day Inca Trail
• Cycling through the Inca Jungle Trek

4-Day Inca Trail To Machu Picchu - Daily Itinerary

Below is a typical itinerary for the 4D/3N classic route.

Day 1: Cusco – Ollantaytambo – KM82 – Wayllabamba

Day one consists of an early morning car or bus ride through the Sacred Valley, and a relatively easy ~12km (7.5 mi) trek.

You will be collected at your hotel early in the morning (usually between 05:00-06:00) by your tour operator and transported from Cusco into the Sacred Valley (some companies start their tour in Ollantaytambo).

The drive takes approximately 3 hours to reach the starting point, called KM82 (named as such as it is 82KM by train from Cusco).

On the drive, you will pass through the towns of Chinchero, Urabamba and Ollantaytambo. You may even stop for about an hour in either Urubamba and Ollantaytambo, where you can grab some breakfast and last minute supplies.

The trail from KM82 first crosses the Rio Vilcanota (often referred to as the Urubamba River) before climbing steeply up from the Rio Cusichaca to a small local village.

• Top things to see in the Sacred Valley
• Paragliding in Cusco
• Things to do and see in Cusco

On the other side of the village, you will see an Inca fort called Huillca Raccay. This was built as a strategic look-out point into the Urubamba valley and was likely used to control the Cusichaca valley.

You will also be able to see below you, on the other side of the river. From here, there is another impressive Inca site called Patallaqta.

Patallaqta was discovered by  Hiram Bingham in 1911, on the same expedition when he discovered Machu Picchu. It is an extensive Inca ruin that is thought to have been an agricultural settlement used to grow and supply food for the inhabitants of Machu Picchu.

Llactapata, an impressive Inca ruin discovered by Hiram Bingham in 1911.

The route continues for another 7-8km (4-5 mi) along a series of gradual undulations to the small village of Wayllabamba (sometimes spelled Wayllapampa), which means ‘grassy plain’ in Quechua, (3,000m / 9,842 ft).

You will most likely camp here from the night. However, some trekking companies continue a little further on to Inca trail campsites near Ayapata (3,300m / 10,827 ft).

Please Note: Wayllabamba is the point at which trekkers on the Salkantay / Inca Trail Combo trek join the Inca Trail. Pack animals are allowed up to this spot on the trail before porters carry on for the rest of the way up.

Day 2: Wayllabamba – Llulluchapampa – Warmiwanusca – Pacamayo

You will be waking up early for breakfast and to prepare for the toughest trekking day. Day 2 is similar in trekking distance to Day 1 which is about 11km (6.83 mi) but involves going up and over the Warmiwanusca Pass (aka Dead Women’s Pass), a 4,200m (13,779 ft) traverse.

The beginning of the trek is straightforward. After your first hour, you will reach a bridge that crosses the Huayruro river. Here, you will find a campsite which has toilets. If you feel the call of nature in the morning, it might be best to hold it in until you reach this point.

Fast Fact: 'Huayruro' refers to a small tree that has red and black seeds. You will commonly see these colours on the ponchos of porters from Ollantaytambo. For this reason, porters from this area are often called Huayruros.

From here, the trail begins to steepen. It winds its way through cloud forest terrain and after nearly hours of hiking, eventually reaches the small village of Llulluchapampa (3,800m / 12,460 ft).

After this juncture, you will trek another 1.5-2 hours to reach the top of Warmiwanusca Pass (aka Abra de Huarmihuañusca or ‘Dead Woman’s Pass). This notorious pass is situated at 4,200m (13,779 ft).

The route up can be hot and intense if the sun is out (wear sunscreen), or cold and cloudy and foggy with icy winds. Be prepared for all conditions by wearing multi-layered clothing.

The view from Dead Woman's Pass (4,200m) on the Inca Trail.

Now, you can celebrate your successful climb to the highest point of the Classic Inca Trail. After catching your breath for a few minutes, you will descend for about 2km (1.2 mi) on a steep trail to the campsite for that night. This camp is located at Pacaymayu (3,580m / 11,700 ft). You will be glad to know that there are toilet facilities here.

Please Note:  Dead Women’s Pass is named as such not because women died on the pass but rather for its shape. When viewed from the descending valley, the mountain slope resembles a supine woman.

Day 3: Pacamayu – Runkurakay – Sayacmarca – Phuyupatamarca – Winay Wayna

Day 3 is another challenging day that covers about 16km (9.94 mi) and traverses two small passes.

The day begins with an hour-long trek up to the ruins at Runkurakay (3,680m / 12,073 ft). This Inca site is believed to have been used as a watchtower over the Pacaymayu valley.

After a second hour’s trekking, you will reach the Runkurakay Pass (aka Abra de Runkuracay). This pass is the second of the Classic Inca Trails major passes. It has a maximum altitude of 4,000m / 13,123 ft. From here, you will be walking on beautifully paved pathways and stone staircases. These structures are still intact from the days of the Incas.

The first staircase down from Runkurakay Pass is relatively steep, so take care with your footing. You will reach the Sayacmarca ruins (3,650m / 12,000 ft) an hour or so after the second pass.

The purpose of Sayacmarca is still unknown but the site’s name means ‘Inaccessible Town’. This accurately describes its well-protected position at the foot of three steep cliffs. The main feature of these ruins is the beautiful stone staircase.

From here, the trail passes through an original Inca tunnel before climbing up to Phuyupatamarca, the third and final pass at 3,680m (12,073 ft). On a clear day, you will be presented with fantastic views of Salkantay Mountain (6,217m / 20,397 ft) in the south and Mount Veronica (5,860m / 19,226 ft) to the North.

Phuyupatamarca or Puyupatamarca is also known as 'La Ciudad entre la Niebla' ('The City Above the Clouds').

Just after the pass, you will reach Phuyupatamarca, one of the most impressive Incan sites on the trail (bar Machu Picchu). Phuyupatamarca or Puyupatamarca is also known as ‘La Ciudad entre la Niebla’ (‘The City Above the Clouds’). An apt description for a place 3,680m (12,073 ft) above sea level.

The site is accessed via a steep path that passes 5 original Incan baths. These may have been used for spiritual or ritual reasons.

Leaving Phuyupatamarca, you will encounter a staircase of 1,000 steps. Prepare your knees (and your mind) for a tough descent. Go slowly and make sure of your footing.

Wiñay Wayna, an Incan site near the final campsite of the same name, is located on the Inca Trail.

After 2-3 hours of trekking through the cloud forest, you will reach the campsite at Winay Huayna (which is the Quechua name for ‘Forever Young’).

Just south of the campsite are the ruins of Winay Huayna, situated at 2,650m / 8,694 ft. The area was likely used as a final resting spot before reaching Machu Picchu. The site has a number of Incan baths and were likely used in ritual cleansings in preparation for arrivals at Machu Picchu.

The view of Machu Picchu from Inti Punku (the Gate of the Sun).

Day 4: Winay Wayna – Inti Punku – Machu Picchu – Aguas Calientes – Ollantaytambo – Cusco

From Winay Huayna, you will awake early (around 04:30) to have breakfast and start the 1.5-hour trek to Inti Punku (the Sun Gate), situated at 2,750m / 8,956 ft.

The initial part of this trek may happen before sunrise. In this case, you might need to use a head-torch (which you can find more details about on our Inca trail packing list ). Although, most operators only hit the trail around 05:30 when dawn breaks. The early departure is on account of trying to catch the sunrise over Machu Picchu. The first rays shine through between 06:30 and 07:00.

The trail from Winay Huayna runs through a cloud-forested contour path. After the forest, you will reach about 50 steep flights of stone stairs to Inti Punku.

At the top of the staircase, you will be presented with an unforgettable view as the famous Inca site of Machu Picchu is revealed through the Sun Gate.

You will get 30-40 minutes to soak in these first views of Machu Picchu from Inti Punku. Then, you will descend down a gradual path into the Citadel. From here, you will register with the authorities and put your backpack in storage.

Most tour operators include a full 2-3 hour tour of the city before giving you free time to explore the ruins. If you still have the energy and are not afraid of heights, then I highly recommend climbing Huayna Picchu (the iconic mountain behind Machu Picchu).

Please Note:  When climbing Huayna Picchu, you will need to book your place prior to arriving at Machu Picchu. There are only 400 climbing permits a day with two departure times (07:00 and 10:00am). Like the Inca trail, it is important to book early. You can get tickets here .

After exploring Machu Picchu for a few hours, you will either need to catch a bus or walk down to Machu Picchu town (aka Aguas Calientes) in the valley below. The bus trip is usually included in your Inca trail tour price (see cost to hike the Inca trail and cheap Inca trail tours ). The walk down takes approximately 2 hours and is worth considering as it provides fantastic views of Machu Picchu’s terraces.

Most tour operators will have booked a mid-afternoon train journey for you back to Ollantaytambo, where they will also have organized a bus or private car to transport you back to Cusco. If you depart from Aguas Calientes (2,040 m / 6,693 ft) at 15:00, you will get back to Cusco around 20:00.

The view of Machu Picchu from Huayna Picchu (aka Wayna Picchu or Wayna Pikchu).

Extended / 5-Day Inca Trail

One can also do a 5D/4N Inca Trail itinerary. These packages include a night in a hotel in Aguas Calientes and an additional day at Machu Picchu.

This is ideal for those who would like to spend more time at Machu Picchu (perhaps climbing Machu Picchu Mountain or Putucusi). With the 5-day Inca Trail, you will also have the opportunity to visit the hot springs at Aguas Calientes.

Alison Macallister

With a degree in Nature Conservation and experience working with wildlife including the Big 5, Alison works as a guide for a 5-star reserve. She enjoys sharing her passion for all things nature-related. She enjoys hiking, horseriding, 4x4 driving and kayaking.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked

Name * * * *

Email * * * *

Alison, Your description of the Inca Trail is the most detailed and exciting one that I have read so far. I'm thoroughly impressed with your knowledge, training and passion for Nature Conservation. I also appreciate your maps and love your photographs.

Thank you so very much! Nancy Levyssohn [email protected]

Hi Nancy, thank you for those kind words, you’ve made my day! Glad that you have found this article useful.

Allison, thank you for this great break down!! We are retired military in our late 50s, but in great shape and have hiked in the Rockies and Sierras. This hike is one of our top bucket list items! We now know we want to look for a 5 day trip to enjoy the hot springs and extra day and that we have to reserve for the extra permit to do the hike up to the Mt over Machu Picchu. Now we just have to find a trip that fits our budget! Are there affordable air Bnb options for an additional night before the bike in Cuzco?

Hi Rob n Lisa, yes, there are tonnes of accommodation options in Cusco. AirBnB’s aren’t great in Cusco, you’re better offer searching for a hotel. Here are some recommendations: https://www.machupicchutrek.net/best-hotels-in-cusco-peru/ . In terms of a local trek operator, I recommend checking out Skyhook: https://www.skyhookadventure.com/go/machu-picchu

Get a quote from our recommended local trek operator in Peru

Inca Trail Luxury Tours

Make your grand entrance into Machu Picchu by joining one of our Inca Trail tours and hike along ancient Incan pathways. Embark on a rewarding 4-day Inca Trail trek or opt for the condensed 2-day Inca Trail experience through the Andes mountains to the Sun Gate of Machu Picchu. As the most famous trek in South America, permits for Inca Trail tours are limited, so plan in advance with your personal Inca Expert travel advisor to reserve your spot.

Personalized service

Private tours that cater to you.

Handpicked hotels

Luxury hotels with superior attention.

5000+ testimonials

20+ years of amazing reviews. Read them here .

Fully Customizable Tours

Answer the call of adventure by hiking the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu. Our Inca Trail tour packages include expert, English-speaking guides, luxury accommodations, and much more. This trail takes you to the famous ruins of Machu Picchu for a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Contact us to plan your dream Peru trip and reserve your Inca Trail permit.

Book With Confidence

Postpone your trip at no cost up to 30 days prior with zero fees with open dates. Learn more.

Inca Trail Tours

Cusco & Classic Inca Trail

Cusco, Inca Trail, Sacred Valley & Machu Picchu

Travel in the footsteps of history by hiking the iconic Inca Trail to the UNESCO world heritage site of Machu Picchu.

Inca Trail & Machu Picchu

Trek the Classic 4-day Inca Trail to Machu Picchu in comfort with a guide, chef, and porters.

2-day Inca Trail and Rainbow Mountain

Cusco, Sacred Valley, 2-day Inca Trail, Rainbow Mountain & Machu Picchu

Walk along the famous Inca Trail and watch the sunrise over Machu Picchu. Then take a private tour to Vinicunca, also known as the beautiful Rainbow Mountain.

Inca Trail Express to Machu Picchu

Cusco, 2 day Inca Trail, Sacred Valley & Machu Picchu

Combine luxury and adventure with an expedited version of the iconic Inca Trail hike where you will visit the wiñay wayna ruins and the Sun Gate at Machu Picchu.

What to see in Inca Trail

Hiking up the Inca Trail is a rewarding journey you’ll never forget. Your feet will connect with 500-year-old stone pathways as you traverse the highlands of Peru. The mighty Inca Empire was connected through a vast network of roads, many of which were reserved for royalty and spiritual leaders. You’ll walk these exclusive ancient footpaths through the cloud forest directly to Machu Picchu and learn firsthand the beauty and fascinating history of the Inca civilization.

On the Inca Trail, you'll discover lesser-known Inca ruins en route to Machu Picchu. Llactapata is an impressive complex of terraces and stone buildings and is one of the first breathtaking Incan sites you’ll see on the Inca Trail.

You'll look in wonder at Sayacmarca and its surrounding landscapes. This astounding Inca ruin was built at the edge of the mountainside. Believed to be used for ceremonial and astrological purposes, it makes for an incredible stop as you journey closer to Machu Picchu.

Runkurakay is a circular-shaped Inca ruin along the Inca Trail, an uncommon shape not seen as often in Incan architecture. This site is believed to be a resting place with strategic views over the valley, or have had ceremonial functions.

Phuyupatamarca

Most of the year Phuyupatamarca is shrouded in mist from the surrounding cloud forest, giving it the name 'La Ciudad entre la Niebla' or The City in the Clouds. This attractive ruin shows the engineering skills of the Incas with its lush green terraces and built-in irrigation systems.

Dead Woman's Pass

The highest point of the Inca Trail, Dead Woman's Pass, is reached on Day 2. Bringing you up to 13,800 ft (4,215 m) above sea level, it’s considered the most difficult part of the Inca Trail hike. A highlight for all is conquering this point, admiring the scenery, and knowing it only gets easier from here on out. You'll soon be rewarded with views of Machu Picchu.

Wiñay Wayna

Wiñay Wayna means “forever young” in Quechua and its terraces are likely to feature grazing alpacas. With fewer crowds and time to really sit and take it in, this preview to Machu Picchu will feel extremely VIP.

Sun Gate Entrance

The Sun Gate, or Inti Punku, offers some of the most impressive views showcasing the full panorama of the Machu Picchu citadel and Huayna Picchu ruins. Your Inca Trail trek takes you to this iconic lookout point and marks your completion of the Inca Trail and arrival at Machu Picchu.

Machu Picchu Citadel

You’ll be rewarded for your hard effort from your Inca Trail hike with the breathtaking views and the fascinating stories of Machu Picchu. Be awed by the archeological treasures of this iconic UNESCO World Heritage site.

Customize Your Trip

Our Inca Expert travel advisors will help you plan a trip that is perfectly tailored to your interests and preferences.

Peru Highlights

Amazon rainforest.

The Amazon Rainforest is the largest jungle in the world. You’ll see species of plants, birds, fish, mammals, and insects as you relax in a comfortable all-inclusive lodge near the Tambopata Research Center in Puerto Maldonado. Luxury Amazon River cruises from Iquitos are an alternative option for jungle exploration done in style.

Hike the famous Inca Trail to the Sun Gate at Machu Picchu. This 26-mile hike through idyllic Peruvian landscapes only permits 500 people per day, so talk with your Inca Expert travel advisor today to book in advance.

Visit Cusco, the capital of the Inca Empire and gateway to Machu Picchu. Tour through historical sights and Inca temples or delight in gourmet food at some of the top restaurants in Cusco.

Lake Titicaca

Lake Titicaca is a cultural and natural wonder in Peru. For impressive sunsets, a visit to the Uros and Taquile floating islands, and relaxing luxury hotels, head to Lake Titicaca.

Sacred Valley

The Sacred Valley has unending sites to behold and things to do. Visit the Maras Salt Mines, Ollantaytambo ruins, Pisac market, begin the Inca Trail, or simply relax at your scenic Sacred Valley hotel with unmissable views.

It’d be a mistake to miss out on Lima’s top restaurants and UNESCO World Heritage sites. The capital city is home to the most exclusive restaurant in Peru: Central. You can also tour through museums, art galleries, and more in the vibrant city of Lima.

Nazca Lines

The mysterious Nazca Lines are giant geoglyphs drawn into the desert floor. Soar above them to see the hummingbird, the astronaut, the spider, and many more!

Arequipa is a refreshing mix of colonial architecture, Peruvian history, and natural beauty. Visit the historical center, Santa Catalina Monastery, or various lookout points in the city for views of El Misti Volcano. Then, spot Andean condors soaring through Colca Canyon as you continue your tour through scenic Peru.

Premier properties with character

What our clients say.

" All in all we had an absolutely amazing time and the trip completely blew my expectations out of the water. The hotels were all fabulous with beautiful views. Thank you sincerely for the trip of a lifetime! "

Aggie Szymanska CA, USA Traveled to: Lima, Paracas, Cusco, Machu Picchu, Sacred Valley

" We wouldn’t stop talking about how well executed and planned everything was. I personally loved the Inca trail addition and I am so glad you gave that to us as an option. The hike to Huayna Picchu was also a group favorite. "

Natasha Mehta & friends NY & PA, USA Traveled to: Cusco, Lares + 2-day Inca Trail Trek, Machu Picchu

" It exceeded my expectations and I loved the people I met there. The hikes were so well organized, food was amazing, and the guides were super caring even getting the cooks to make a cake for me on my birthday on the Lares trek. "

Araceli Gutierrez MO, USA Traveled to: Lima, Cusco, Lares, Machu Picchu, Rainbow Mountain

" Based on the trip you organized, the historical knowledge, the people, the food, the culture and the natural beauty of Peru, it was simply the best trip I’ve ever taken. This trip will forever be in my memory. "

Gilles Verrier MB, Canada Traveled to: Lima, Puerto Maldonado, Cusco, Sacred Valley, Lares Trek, Machu Picchu

" Our trip to Peru was nothing short of magnificent. As for our favorite part, we loved it all. Machu Picchu was everything we thought it would be and more. We had a wonderfully successful trip to Peru! "

Steven Kopelic PA, USA Traveled to: Amazon, Sacred Valley, Machu Picchu, Cusco

How hard is it to hike the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu?

Difficult. The Inca Trail is a strenuous hike that involves physical exertion to complete. The trail takes you up to elevations of up to 13,800 ft (4,215 m) above sea level and is comprised of sections of steep stone steps. However, it makes for an unparalleled sense of accomplishment arriving to Machu Picchu after four days of hiking.

Do I need to book the Inca Trail in advance?

Yes. The Inca Trail is one of the most popular hikes in South America and can sell out sometimes 6-months in advance. Permits go on sale at the end of each calendar year so booking before October for the next year will better ensure you obtain an Inca Trail permit for your preferred dates. If your travel dates are flexible, hiking during a shoulder season (March/April, October/November) or the rainy season (December/January) will mean less advanced planning is required.

Can I add a Huayna Picchu hike to my Inca Trail trek?

Yes. Your Inca Expert travel advisor can customize your Peru itinerary to include both the Inca Trail trek and a hike up to Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain within the Machu Picchu citadel. Like the Inca Trail, these hikes have a limited number of permits per day so booking in advance will better ensure your ideal time slot is available.

Can I hike the Inca Trail without an agency or guide?

No. In 2002, Peru’s Ministry of Tourism decreed that trekking independently on the 2-day and 4-day Inca Trail has been prohibited and must be done with a professionally qualified guide.

What should I pack for the Inca Trail?

Packing essentials for the Inca Trail are:

• Plastic bags to store wet clothes
• Toiletries & medicines
• Insect repellant
• Hiking boots & sandals for camp
• Reusable water bottle
• Hat & sunglasses
• Lightweight t-shirts
• Lightweight sweaters
• Sleepwear & evening wear for camp
• Socks & underwear
• Sleeping bag suitable to 23ºF (-5ºC) – can be rented.

What can I do to prepare beforehand for my Inca Trail hike?

Regular physical activity prior to your Inca Trail hike is the best way to prepare beforehand. Walking, jogging, or hiking in your neighborhood/region, cardio exercises at a gym, or yoga and other physical activities are all great ways to increase your physical condition and stamina.

It is also imperative to acclimate to the altitude by spending at least two days in Cusco prior to your Inca Trail hike.

Will I experience symptoms of altitude sickness on the Inca Trail?

40-50% of travelers experience minor symptoms of altitude sickness, also known as Acute Mountain Sickness, like shortness of breath, fatigue, and dizziness when traveling in high altitude destinations in Peru such as on the Inca Trail, in Cusco, Arequipa, and Lake Titicaca. Symptoms of altitude sickness generally alleviate after 24-48 hours in altitude. Best practices for minimizing its impact on your trip include: taking the time to acclimate, drinking lots of water, resting, avoiding alcohol, and eating light non-fatty foods upon arrival at altitude.

Consult with your doctor before traveling to high-altitude destinations.

When is the best time to trek the Inca Trail?

For optimal weather conditions on the Inca Trail, reserve your Inca Trail permit between the months of May to September. This is the dry season in the Andes where daytime temperatures are mild and nighttime temperatures drop, rain is less likely to occur on your hike in the dry season. For those planning with shorter notice, opt for hike dates in the shoulder seasons, March-April and October-November for a better likelihood of permit availability.

Hiking the Inca Trail in the rainy season, from December to January, isn’t recommended unless you don’t mind wet hiking conditions and prefer fewer people on the trail. The Inca Trail is closed for maintenance and safety reasons throughout the entire month of February.

What can I expect for food on the Inca Trail?

The 4-day Inca Trail tour with Inca Expert will include plenty of food to keep you satiated and energized on this exhilarating hike.

Enjoy coffee, tea, and breakfast spreads, hot lunches and dinners of chicken and rice, fried fish, veggies, soups, steak, and more.

Tell your Inca Expert travel advisor in advance if you have any dietary restrictions, such as vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, etc. Dietary restrictions are easily accommodated and will have just as much nutritious food.

Read through our raving testimonials for first-hand feedback about Inca Trail hikes with Inca Expert.

What are my alternatives for hiking to Machu Picchu if the 4-Day Inca Trail is completely sold out?

The 2-Day and 4-Day Inca Trail hikes are the only hiking options that culminate at the Machu Picchu citadel. Alternative hiking options to the Inca Trail, like the Lares Trek or Salkantay trek, include a Machu Picchu tour on the last day but do not lead directly to the ruins by foot.

How many people will be in my group Inca Trail tour?

Inca Expert group Inca Trail tours have a maximum of 8 hikers per guide. Talk to an Inca Expert travel agent about hiking the Inca Trail in private.

Can I do the 2-day or 4-day Inca Trail hike in private?

Yes. Private Inca Trail treks are ideal for those who are concerned about their experience level affecting the pace of the group or for those simply wanting to do the trail with fewer people. Let your Inca Expert travel advisor know if you’d prefer to do this iconic trek in private.

Do you have recommendations for Travel Insurance companies?

Inca Expert recommends insurance companies such as itravelinsured , World Nomads , insuremytrip , and SquareMouth . Please note that Inca Expert does not have any affiliation with the listed travel insurance companies. For a free quote and policy options, please contact the companies directly.

Contact Us today to cross the Inca Trail off your hiking bucket list!

What is the food like on the Inca Trail?

Feedback we frequently receive from our travelers is how impressive the meals are on the Inca Trail. A chef accompanies each group and prepares breakfast and three course lunches and dinners. The meals are quite exquisite considering that all of the ingredients and cooking supplies are carried from the Sacred Valley. Each trekker is also provided with snacks to take with them on the trail. All meals can be adapted to trekkers’ personal dietary restrictions and preferences.

How many trekkers are in each group?

The maximum trekking group size generally varies between 8 to 12 trekkers plus the trekking team.

Not quite sure? Explore all our best selling packages

Book with confidence.

Postpone your tour with zero cost up to 30 days prior to arrival with open dates

Hello! I'm Tori.

Tori Pines Travels

creating action-packed and culture rich vacations

Culture & History , Inca Trail , International , Peru , Seven Wonders of the World , UNESCO World Heritage Sights · August 15, 2023

The 7 Best Inca Trail Tour Companies: Honest Reviews!

Last Updated on November 30, 2023 by Tori Pines

Embarking on the legendary Inca Trail is a journey that’s more than just a vacation. It’s a step back in time, an exploration of ancient wonders, and a chance to appreciate the breathtaking landscapes. As you prepare to follow in the footsteps of the ancient Inca civilization, choosing the right tour company becomes an important decision, one that can shape the entire outcome of your adventure. So you probably want to know, which are the best Inca Trail tour companies?

In this guide, we delve into the world of the Inca Trail tour companies. Unearthing the best companies that offer not just guided expeditions, but transformative experiences. From itineraries that blend history and nature seamlessly, to a commitment to sustainable and responsible tourism, join us as we unveil the best tour companies that promise to make your Inca Trail expedition an unforgettable trek of discovery and wonder.

This post may contain affiliate links for activities, destinations and products that I love, and think you will too!

Before you select a tour company and book your trip of a lifetime, I highly recommend that you check out my ultimate guide to hiking the Inca Trail. I go over every single detail that you will need to know about this adventure. Along with tips, tricks, packing lists and more.

Since I have only hiked the trail once, with one company, it wouldn’t be fair for me to give you the information about the other best Inca Trail tour companies. That’s why I’ve gathered other travel bloggers to write up reviews from their experience on the trail. Hear what they have to say below to help you select the company that’s best for you!

The Best Inca Trail Tour Companies

G Adventures

Recommended by Me!

The largest of the Inca Trail tour companies, G Adventures is a company that books tours all over the world. They tour in all seven continents. This can be seen as a pro and a con. To me, it says they will likely be extremely organized, reliable and provide easy and helpful customer support. And these are all great reasons as to why they are one of the best Inca Trail tour companies.

However, the concern with a larger company might be that it doesn’t support the local community. But they were named the best Inca Trail tour operator by the Regional Direction of Foreign Trade and Tourism of Cusco (RDFTTC) in Peru. And they employ over 560 locals as guides, porters, chefs, drivers and office staff. Our guide told us how big of a difference we make in their lives by supporting the tourism there.

The most important thing that comes along with using a large company like this is the safety aspect. The tour guides have radios that can reach the home office at any time if there were to be an emergency along the way. The porters carry oxygen tanks and first aid kits and are trained in first aid and evacuation. With a large company you know they have high standards and expect the utmost care given to their travelers.

Now onto the good stuff, how my experience was hiking the Inca Trail with G Adventures.

I chose the 8 day Inca Discovery tour . But G Adventures actually offers 24 different tour options that include the Inca Trail Trek. These range in length from 4 days (just the hike) to 65 days (touring you all the way through South America with the hike as just one stop along the way). Most of the tours range from 7 to 14 days. These will give you a great taste of the country of Peru.

Most options start in Lima, which is where you’ll likely have to fly into anyway. But the shorter ones (4-7 days) start in Cusco.

The hike itself will take 4 days, with 3 nights camping in the Andes Mountains. Most of the other tour companies (if not all) will offer this same timeline. And no matter which of the best Inca Trail tour companies you select, you’ll see the same beautiful scenery. So sadly, I won’t mention any of those details (even though it’s so incredible and I love talking about how fantastic the journey was!)

The porters will carry your duffle bag filled with your belongings. You may load up to 6kg (about 13 pounds) in your bag. But that has to include your sleeping bag and sleeping mat. Those take up over half of that weight.

They’ll also be carrying all of the food, tents and equipment we will need along the way.

The cooks will prepare incredible meals for you as well. Breakfast is 3 courses, lunch is 4 courses, “tea time” is just an afternoon snack and dinner is 3 courses. You will be stuffed (but also so hungry from all of the hiking). But the food is absolutely outstanding. It’s cooked in traditional Peruvian style, but made with ingredients that you will be familiar with, so even the pickiest of eaters will love what they prepare.

The guides, porters and cooks are incredible, and one of the main reasons why G Adventures is one of the best Inca Trail tour companies. While typically only the guides speak English, they are all so incredibly kind with their smiles and gestures. The porters grin from ear to ear and you can tell they are genuinely happy to be there and grateful for you supporting their communities and livelihoods.

We took the time to learn a few phrases in their native language of Quechua. You could tell how happy it made them that we made the effort to speak to them in their language.

The guides were phenomenal. They taught us everything there was to know about the history of the ruins, and the nature that surrounded us along the way. They were kind and helpful and so full of energy. We thoroughly enjoyed spending the week with them (shoutout to Gerry, he is the best!!!!)

I also could not have been more pleased with the other people in our group. I went on the trip with my sister, but otherwise we didn’t know anyone we were grouped with. We had about 10 people with us the entire time and it was the perfect size. We all became great friends as we experienced this incredible journey together!

So my honest review of G Adventures? I cannot recommend them enough, and they belong at the top of the list of the best Inca Trail tour companies. The entire experience was smooth and easy, fun and exciting, and the best experience I have been on. I cannot wait to book another trip with them soon…somewhere around the world.

If you want to hear more about my experience along the Inca Trail, be sure to check out my Peru Journals for a day-by-day account of my experience!

For more information about the G Adventures tour options click here!

Machu Picchu Excursions

Recommended by Giorgy of G-Extreme Travel

I had the opportunity to experience Machu Picchu Excursions for my Inca Trail journey. I chose them based on a recommendation from GetYourGuide , which offered me a discounted rate as an affiliate partner.

When I made my booking with Machu Picchu Excursions, they were still in the process of developing their services. However, they already had packages available for daily visits to Machu Picchu, 2-day and 1-night trips, the 4-day Inca Trail, and the Salkantay Trail.

Nowadays, they are offering tour packages from Cusco that offer daily trips to places such as llama farms, Rainbow Mountain, and the Sacred Valley.

As mentioned above, Machu Picchu Excursions offers a variety of tour options for the Inca Trail. All tours begin at Ollantaytambo near Cusco as the starting point of the journey.

From that point, you start your hiking journey in the beauty of Inca Trail. The tour was guided by an experienced professional (Jose). He provided us with comprehensive information regarding our journey to Machu Picchu and answered all our queries promptly. The guide was really friendly and knowledgeable which made the experience even better! Apart from him, there were also the porters that were transporting all our stuff safely. The cooks also provided us always with delicious meals.

The food was amazing as the cooks used just camping equipment to prepare three delicious meals each day. It felt like there was a Michelin-star chef with us on the trip!

If I have to be honest, the entire tour was well organized and I would surely book with them again as they are one of the best Inca Trail tour companies. My guide along with all the porters was very knowledgeable, friendly, and helpful throughout our trip. I can surely recommend Machu Picchu Excursion to all who want to explore this amazing destination in an authentic way!

Sam Travel Peru

Recommended by Nick of Spiritual Travels

I’ve wanted to do the Inca Trail for decades. So when it came to booking the trip, I spent hours researching companies. In the end I chose Sam Travel Peru .

I liked that Sam Travel is run by an indigenous former porter. SAM is an acronym of his name – Saul Alvarez Montalvo. While every company nowadays claims to be ethical and treat their porters well, I figured a porter himself would know best! Second, after contacting several companies, I found Sam’s staff to be the most responsive. Third, their prices were at the lower end of the spectrum. Last, they were in the number one spot on TripAdvisor for their Inca Trail, Cusco, and Sacred Valley tours.

While SAM offers the full gamut of Inca Trail hikes – 2-day, 4-day, 5-day, alternative treks, etc., as a solo traveler, I could only join a hike that already had other people. This meant I had to do the classic 4-day hike, by far the most popular one. This wasn’t a problem for me, because after lots of research, I believe that’s the best one. Plus I liked the itinerary choices SAM made. For example, we walked farther on Day 2, but then we had a shorter Day 3, which ended up being my favorite.

Want more great travel articles? I have many more blog posts coming soon, so join my email list to ensure you never miss a post!

Our guide, David, was extremely knowledgeable – at points, he almost talked TOO long. I wanted to explore each ruin. But we would typically find a spot, sit, and listen to him talk for 30 minutes – although guides from all the companies seemed to do this. Another minor complaint is that he told us how much we should tip all the porters and cooks. As for how much to tip David, our group had trouble agreeing on an amount.

Information online about this also vague. The whole tipping thing is awkward. I wish they would just include it in the total fee so you know what to expect.  

Besides those small issues, everything was perfect. The food was delicious and they catered to my diet. The tents were large and cozy, and David always went out of his way to ensure we were happy. The porters and kitchen team were also lovely, one of the best reasons why they are one of the best Inca Trail tour companies. It was an experience I’ll never forget and SAM definitely played a role in that!

Recommended by Chris of Around the World With Me

One of the best Inca Trail tour companies is Peru Treks. Based out of Cusco, Peru Treks has been leading hikers across the Peruvian Andes for decades. But while they run numerous city and trekking tours, the Inca Trial is their most popular trek and what they are most known for. 

I booked an Inca Trail trek with Peru treks after researching dozens of tour operators in the region. They offered the best combination of affordability and positive online reviews. They were also very response to email and incredibly friendly in their communication.

When you book an Inca Trail trek with Peru Treks, you’ll meet up with them two nights before your trek starts to pay for the tour. After acclimatizing to the high mountain air for a day in Cusco you’ll be picked up bright and early on your second morning and driven to the beginning of the Inca Trail a few hours away.

Peru Treks runs one tour guide per 16 trekkers. Along with the guide there is usually one porter per trekker and a couple cooks. The porters carry just about everything. But you have to carry your own clothes, sleeping bag, and any food or water you need between stops. 

The food is surprisingly delicious, like you’re eating at a quality restaurant every night. Yet you’re just in a tent high in the mountains. The porters and cooks typically speak only Spanish but are generous and incredibly helpful if you need anything. 

Overall, Peru Treks is an amazing tour operator to use when hiking the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu. You won’t be disappointed by their passion for assuring you have the most enjoyable time possible in one of the most beautiful places in the world.

TreXperience

Recommended by Danni of The Solo Plan

I visited Peru as part of a wider South American trip. I had been asking around for Inca Trail recommendations from other companies. A few people mentioned TreXperience, which I’d recognised from TripAdvisor. I knew they would be a good choice as one of the best Inca Trail tour companies.

TreXperience offers quite a few different hikes in the area and also multiple versions of the Inca Trek. I booked the classic 4-day Inca Trail tour and was immediately impressed with the communication and organization of this company. From packing lists to schedules, they provided all the information I needed. TreXperience also has a Facebook group where people provide advice and ask questions.

Love to travel? Join my Facebook group to be a part of a small community of fellow travel lovers! Get inspiration for your next trip, ask and answer questions and make new friends who also love exploring the world!

As a solo traveler I’m always nervous at the start of a group tour so one of my favorite things was the pre-trek briefing in Cusco the night before the tour commenced. We met our guides and fellow travelers and it created so much excitement for the following day!

The guides ran through all of the trip details and provided an opportunity for us to ask any questions about our gear or the trek. I was ecstatic to be paired up with another solo female traveler (the tents are for two people) and felt more confident commencing the tour.

In terms of the tour itself, I was blown away by the level of service that was provided to us by TreXperience! There were 2 guides and 20+ porters carrying all of the gear (we only carried day packs). Our guides were so friendly and knowledgeable and it was evident that they are so passionate about the Inca history. The porters were amazing – they each carry 20kg in huge backpacks and practically run along the track! One thing I loved about TreXperience is that they place importance on looking after the porters.

Some companies push the 20kg per porter rule to save money. However, TreXperience carefully weighs all the bags to ensure that the porters aren’t lifting too much. At one point they even asked all the guests to test wearing one of the 20kg backpacks. Such a lovely idea to make sure that everyone appreciates the hardworking porters!

The food and accommodation were amazing. I was worried about sharing a tent with a random, but it was actually really spacious! The porters set everything up and even wake you up in the morning with a warm cup of tea. For meals, they set up a large “dining room” tent where we would have 3-course meals for breakfast, lunch and dinner (insane!). We were treated like absolute royalty.

In summary, I had such an amazing time doing the Inca Trail with TreXperience and definitely recommend them for your upcoming trip! I wouldn’t hesitate to book with them again.

Alpaca Expeditions

Recommended by Sarah of A Social Nomad

We booked Alpaca Expeditions to hike the Inca Trail for several reasons, first, they were a local company, which was important to us, secondly because of the outstanding reviews they received from previous trekkers, and finally, they only require a minimum of two trekkers for a trek to run. Sounds like one of the best Inca Trail tour companies to us!

Alpaca Expeditions offer a variety of options for trekking – 6 different options for hiking to Machu Picchu, from 2 days up to 7 days, and an Inca Trail trek that includes hiking to Peru’s Rainbow Mountain . All of their treks begin at their offices in Cusco, so it’s easy for everyone to get to.

The food on this trek was good – wholesome, hearty, and good energy fuel but tasty too – and it was served with humor and friendliness. The team at Alpaca is great, from the email replies to the front office staff, porters, and trail guides. They were motivating, and helpful, but also kept their distance if you wanted to enjoy the trail in peace. Our experience with Alpaca Expeditions was great, I’d definitely book with them again and would highly recommend them.

Andean Path

Recommended by Tomek

I ended up booking the 2 day Short Inca trail directly with the agency Andean Path Travel for me and my brother and we had an amazing time, really beyond my expectations. From start to finish, everything went smoothly and they were one of the best Inca Trail tour companies you could choose.

They were really helpful before we arrived in Peru as we were emailing back and forth about the options that would suit us best (we chose hotel, but there was a camping option as well as 3 and 4 day options), telling us what to pack and scheduling a pre-trip briefing for us, they always got back to us promptly. Everything was on time and professional, they organized everything for us, private van, train tickets, Inca permits, hotels and great meals. They did all of this at relatively short notice so it was such a relief we could just relax and enjoy our trip totally.

We started our tour in Cusco, where our tour guide David picked us up from our hotel before heading to catch the train where we then got off and started our hike. David spoke exceptional English so communication was easy, he actually grew up in a village on the Inca trail so his depth of knowledge not just of the Incan history but also of the local nature, language and geography was incredible and he was so passionate about sharing his knowledge, it really felt special and personal.

During the hike, as well as the private tour of Machu Picchu we did the second day, I felt like he really cared about giving us an experience of a lifetime and I look back on all the photos (he’s a great photographer too!) with so much joy. It was the trip of a lifetime and I would absolutely book with them again, just as soon as I can make it back to Peru!

So what are you waiting for? Go book your tour and have the most rewarding experience ever by hiking the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu with one of these best Inca Trail tour companies.

Get on the List

You’ll also love.

Things to do on Broadway, The Main Strip in Nashville

Trending now.

Become an Insider

Join my mailing list for notifications about new posts, exclusive content & giveaways.

I'm Tori, a dreamer with a cup that is always half full. I believe in having the best vacations possible, and I'm here to help. Check back each week for travel tips and inspiration.

Work With Me

• Privacy Policy
• Get in Touch

Shop My Favorites

• In My Suitcase
• Expedia Partner
• My Recommended Travel Companies

Destinations

Travel tips.

• Travel Journal
• Culture & History
• Travel Guides

Copyright © 2024 Tori Pines Travels · Theme by 17th Avenue

Privacy Overview

Hiking the Inca trail to Machu Picchu: A Short Guide

One of the world’s most famous mountain hikes, the Inca Trail attracts huge numbers of visitors every year, all of whom come with one end-goal in sight – Machu Picchu.

Hikers walk alongside a river during the Inca Trail (Photo: Aled via Flickr / CC BY 2.0)

Taking you along ancient narrow paths deep into the southern Peruvian countryside and high into the Andean mountains, past ancient Incan ruins and enchanting cloud forests, leading inexorably to the iconic citadel of Machu Picchu, the Inca Trail is a truly magical travel experience for all who complete it – and one that’s destined to leave you with memories that last a lifetime.

How and when you choose to negotiate the famous 40 kilometre trail depends on a number of factors: namely, time, budget and fitness levels. If you’re thinking of embarking on an Inca Trail adventure and would like to get the inside track on what to expect, what to bring, how to book, and plenty more, we’ve compiled a comprehensive guide to hiking the Inca Trail, which you’ll find below.

History of the Inca Trail

The Classic Inca Trail was built between the 1400s and 1500s during the Incan Empire’s height, with Inca engineers using advanced techniques and the power of thousands of workers to move rocks and build the stone-paved trails and sacred archaeological sites that still line today’s route. After the Hispanic Invasion in 1532, Manco Inca II, Rebel Inca King, fled with his army, destroying all trails and bridges, resulting in the Ina Trail being lost for hundreds of years.

A view of Machu Picchu (Photo: Pedro Szekely via Flickr / CC BY-SA 2.0)

In 1911, Machu Picchu was discovered by the American Explorer Hiram Bingham, and four years late, he also unearthed the Inca Trail itself, subsequently performing a series of excavations throughout the trail, during which many archaeological wonders were uncovered. In 1983, Machu Picchu was officially declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and in 2007 achieved even greater acclaim when it was announced as one of the New Seven Wonders of the World.

Peru has two seasons – dry and wet – and it’s possible to hike the Inca Trail during either. Each, however, come with their own pros and cons. As the name indicates, dry season sees the least amount of rain; however, it also coincides with Peru’s peak spell for tourism, resulting in the trail being at full capacity pretty much every day. All of this means fuller camp sites and more traffic along the route.

Wet season is a less busy time to hike the Inca Trail, meaning more chance to connect with your stunning natural surroundings without the backdrop of clomping feet and chatter. Prices can be slightly cheaper and easier to book in wet season, too – even at short notice – while night-time temperatures also tend to be a little higher than dry season. On the downside, if your luck’s out with the weather, hiking and camping in the rain is few people’s idea of fun, and if there’s significant rainfall, hiking conditions can become a little treacherous.

How long to go for

As mentioned in our introduction, the duration of your hike depends on how much time you have, how much money you’re willing to spend, and how much energy you’re able to expend. The Classic Inca Trail route is a 3 to 5 day hike, and on average, it takes 4 days and 3 nights to reach Machu Picchu. For those short on time, there’s also a shorter route, which starts at Kilometer 104 and only takes one day to hike to Machu Picchu.

A steep section of trail leading up to an archaeological site (Photo: Wendy Harman via Flickr / CC BY 2.0)

One other factor that may influence your decision is whether or not your Inca Trail visit is part of a wider regional trip. There are a number of organised tours available in which the Inca Trail makes up only a very small portion. So, for example, if you’re travelling around South America for several weeks and embarking on other hikes or arduous activities during that time, one of the shorter Inca Trail hikes may appeal.

How much it costs

At time of writing, Inca Trail tours start at around £550 per person and can rise to £1,500. As a general rule, if you see prices any cheaper than this bottom end, then you may want to think twice, and if you see anything pricier, you’re either looking at a very upmarket tour or are booking through a tour agent. It should also be noted that Inca Trail tours booked via agencies will often simply place you on an available tour with a local operator, so you have very little control on quality.

The tour price will usually include transport to and from the starting point of your hike, all camping equipment (apart from sleeping bags), three meals a day, your tour guide, and porters.

Sleeping and eating

There are no hotels on the Inca Trail and your only available accommodation comes in the form of a tent provided by your tour company and carried by porters. The tents are all two-person, meaning you’ll either be sharing with a friend/partner, or a randomly assigned member of the same sex. For those that would prefer more privacy, you can also pay extra for your own one-person tent.

Hikers gathered outside a tent along the trail (Photo: Craig Nagy via Flickr / CC BY-SA 2.0)

The porters carry all the tents along the trail and usually power on ahead of your group to set up the tents each afternoon before you arrive, and then take them down and pack them up again in the morning. Needless to say, the porters will be among your favourite people on earth by the end of the trip – and it is custom to tip them accordingly.

As for food, on most tours chefs are included as part of the support staff, with all food, apart from snacks along the way is included in the price. You won’t even need to lift a finger to prepare it or wash up. Instead, around a table in a make-shift tent dining room, you’ll receive breakfast and a three-course meal for both lunch and dinner each day. A typical dinner includes fresh hot soup, a main course, and then something sweet to round it off – all washed down at the end with cups of tea. Vegetarians are catered for, too.

What to pack

Packing light and smart are the keys to preparing for the Inca Trail. After all, weighing yourself down with too much equipment will make the already arduous walk much less enjoyable, while forgetting essential items will leave you with eternal regrets. The good news is that, if you’ve ever hiked or spent anytime backpacking before, then you’ll likely already have a lot of the necessary equipment at home.

First up, it may not seem obvious but you’ll need to take your passport. You can’t enter the Inca Trail without first getting your passport details checked and verified with your permit at the Km.82 checkpoint, and you’ll also be required to show it to enter Machu Picchu. Your reward? A much sough-after passport stamp to add to your collection.

When it comes to clothing, it’s best to prepare for all weathers. So even if you’re travelling in dry season, we’d recommend packing a waterproof jacket or poncho with a hood. Other essentials are a warm hat for those chilly mornings and nights, and sunglasses and a wide-brimmed hat to protect against the sun, which can do even more damage than usual at high altitude.

A trekker holds a wooden hiking pole (Photo: Phil Whitehouse via Flickr / CC BY 2.0)

It’s critical to get your shoe wear right, too, and we strongly recommend packing good quality, waterproof hiking boots. Although you’ll notice the porters walking in tatty old trainers, the trail’s contours and difficult slippery underfoot conditions in sections are well-known and easy to these guys who have been traversing it for often their whole lives. The average tourist, however, will be far less well-accustomed to this often challenging terrain.

Other optional items that you may want to consider include a head torch for navigating the campsite safely after dark, hiking poles to help ease the burden on your body as you walk, toilet paper and hand sanitiser, thermal underwear, and a good quality sleeping bag. If you don’t bring your own sleeping bag, then it’s usually possible to rent one from your tour company or at one of the outdoors shops in Cusco.

Hot springs in Agua Caliente, where many visitors head to after the Inca Trail (Photo: apardavila via Flickr / CC BY 2.0)

Where to book

There are a huge number of Inca Trail tour providers that let you book online. One of the most popular is Bookmundi, and we’ve picked out three of their best tours catering for varying durations and budgets.

First up, Trekking the Inca Trail is a 4 day, 3 night small-group adventure which invites you to hike past rambling rivers, cloud forests, ancient ruins, and scenic mountain views. The terrain is rugged and steep but the sense of accomplishment you’ll feel is unparalleled once you reach Machu Picchu by sunrise. On reaching the site, you’ll enjoy a guided tour before returning to Cusco in the evening.

If you’d like to combine the Inca Trail with another famous Peru hike, The Lares Trek and One-Day Inca Trail could be for you. Spread over 5 days, you’ll start with a full-day guided tour of the Sacred Valley before embarking on your first big hike of the tour on day 3. The high-altitude hike starts near the village of Lares, approximately 40 miles north of Cusco, taking you through the Lares Valley in the east of the Urubamba mountain range, and taking two days. Then, on day five, you’ll head off on a one-day hike of the Inca Trail, culminating with a guided tour of Machu Picchu before travelling back to Cusco by train.

Alternatively, for those who only have limited time, the 2-day Inca Trail hike to Machu Picchu may well fit the bill. This express tour includes only one full day of trekking leading to a Machu Picchu guided tour on the second day. It also includes one night in a 3-star hotel as well as pick-up and drop off in Cusco.

Please also note, all companies operating the Inca Trail must be registered and have a special operators license. A number of these companies are only established to provide specific private tours in high season, with the rest offering year-round excursions. New operators are added to the list each year so, as quality, experience, and equipment offered can vary quite a lot.

It’s also necessary to pay a deposit in advance to secure your Inca Trail permit, so if you book with a new or cheaper provider, make sure you’ve done your research before coughing up any cash. After all, you don’t want the upfront savings to mean a less memorable experience. Also be aware that permits are only issued with a tourist’s name and passport number and, once booked, they are non-changeable and non-transferable.

Latest Articles

• A Comparison of Brooklyn Bridge Walking Tours April 23, 2024
• 5 of the Best London to Rome Tours April 23, 2024
• 5 of the Best Student Accommodation in Toulouse April 23, 2024
• 5 of the Best Corfu Walking Tours April 22, 2024
• The 5 Most Charming Beaches in New Hampshire April 22, 2024

• Traveler Blogs

Social Projects

• Inca Trail Availability

• Office: +51 84 254278
• WhatsApp: 202-550-8534
• USA Rep: 202-550-8534
• Manager's WhatsApp: +51 986 029262
• Owner's WhatsApp: +51 947 824774

Inca Trail Trek to Machu Picchu 4D, 3N Group Hiking Tour

Experience the famous Inca Trail for 4 amazing days, and pass through the Sun Gate for that first magical sighting of Machu Picchu! This itinerary is the perfect combination of history and beauty: visiting amazing Inca ruins along the way while you take in the lush green cloud forest, Andean mountain passes and vast landscape.

Hiking this trail with Alpaca Expeditions means completing it with no stress. We will take care of everything including securing all the best campsites, serving delicious and nutritious meals, providing top notch equipment and surrounding you with the most dedicated team from your guide who will become a teacher and a friend to our porters who do it all flawlessly.

Our motto is “the journey is the destination” and we can promise this will be your best journey yet.

Aditional Especial Touches

• Check Inca Trail Availability
• See Top 50 Questions about the Inca Trail
• See How Inca Trail Permits Work

Inca Trail is waiting for you!

We have special deals for the following dates in March.

24, 25, 26, 27, 29, 30, 31

Trip Details

Travel info, packing list, inca trail highlights, introduction, highlights of the inca trail.

• THE TRAIL . Built in the 1450s by the powerful Inca Empire, the trail required the use of rocks which were transported from nearby quarries and delicately carved to fit in precision and meticulously.
• NATURE . The Inca Trail to Machu Picchu passes through a wide range of microclimates as a result of varying altitudes. Along this trail, travellers hike from high altitude puna to high brow of jungle.
• INCA ARCHAEOLOGICAL SITES . The trail takes hikers along valleys and through mountain passes, and grants hikers access to the archaeological sites of Patallacta/Llactapata, Runkurakay, Sayacmarca, Phuyupatamarca, Inti Pata, Winay Wayna, and Intipunku . The Inca Trail leads directly to Machu Picchu and offers the hike of a lifetime.
• HISTORICAL SIGNIFICANCE . The Inca trail to Machu Picchu holds great significance as it is the only hiking trail that grants access to Machu Picchu. After hiking 3 days along valleys and through mountain passes, all hikers reach Machu Picchu via the Sun Gate – and important construction of Machu Picchu citadel.

Highlights of hiking with Alpaca Expeditions

• LOCALLY OWNED COMPANY . Alpaca Expeditions is an 100% locally owned company in Cusco , Peru. Created by Raul Ccolque , Alpaca Expeditions is the only tour operator and agency founded by a former Inca Trail porter.
• CAMPING EQUIPMENT . Alpaca Expeditions is considered a leading agent of change due to its implementation of top-quality equipment such as tents, sleeping pads, sleeping bags and others .
• FOOD . During your hike with Alpaca Expeditions you are guaranteed to put on some pounds. Our chefs have special yearly training to create unique meals while on the trail. Our food is prepared with fresh ingredients, and is served buffet style. Our services includes breakfast, snacks, lunch that will come with soup, main course ad hot drinks, happy hours with hot drinks upon your arrival to each campsite and dinners that include with soup, main course and desserts. We also provide all hikers with potable drinking water while on the trails.
• SATELLITE PHONES . Alpaca Expeditions is the only company that has satellite phones availble along all its operating trails. Hikers have access to satellite phones to contact their love ones.
• PORTABLE TOILETS . Alpaca Expeditions provides portable ecological toilets at each of its campsites and for the private use of our clients only.
• PERSONAL PORTER . All of our hiking services include porter service which allows travellers to take 7KG of personal belongings on the trail. All belongings are carried by our porters.
• HOTEL TO HOTEL SERVICE . Alpaca Expeditions offers hotel to hotel service to all of its travellers. All of our services begin with direct pick up from your hotel accommodation in Cusco and end with a direct drop off in Cusco.
• FREE LUGGAGE STORAGE . Alpaca Expeditions offes free luggage storage for all extra bags and personal belongings.
• TOP QUALITY SERVICE . We are the only company that has more than 8000 excellent reviews on TRIPADVISOR which speaks about our services and explains what kind of tour you will have with us.

Day by Day breakdown of the Inca Trail

Day 1.- cusco – km82 – ayapata.

Hiking distance: 14km Trail head elevation: 2720m/8923ft Campsite elevation: 3300m/10829ft Hiking difficulty: moderate challenging Weather: Warm to cold Inca sites to see / visit: Ccanabamba & Llactapata

DAY 2.- AYAPATA – DEAD WOMENS PASS- RUNKURACCAY PASS – CHAQUICCOCHA

Hiking distance: 16 km Trail head elevation: 3300m/10829ft Campsite elevation: 3600M/11800ft Hiking difficulty: challenging Weather: cold Inca sites to see/visit: Runkuraccay & Sayacmarca

DAY 3.- CHAQUICCOCHA – PHUYUPATAMARCA PASS – WIÑAYWAYNA

Hiking distance: 10 km Trail head elevation: 3600M/11800ft Campsite elevation: 2680m/8792ft Hiking difficulty: challenging Weather: cold Inca sites to see/visit : Phuyupatarmarca, Intipata & Wiñay Wayna

DAY 4.- MACHUPICCHU THE SACRED CITY OF THE INCAS

Hiking distance: 5 km Trail head elevation: 2680m/8792ft Machupicchu elevation: 2400meters/7873ft Hiking difficulty: moderate Weather: warm

Which month is good to hike?

Weather in Cusco is determined by two dominant seasons DRY SEASON and RAINY SEASON.

Dry season is characterized by blue skies and sunny conditions. This season spans from April to October and is considered to be the best season for hiking in the Cusco region,

In contrast, the rainy season spans from November to March and is characterized by rains. Rains are often torrential and short in duration and make for lush greenery and replenished flora and fauna .

The Inca Trail closes for maintance on FEBRUARY each year. No groups are operated during this time of year.

Extra reasons to choose Alpaca Expeditions?

• World Travel Awards winner for BEST TOUR OPERATOR in Peru for 2021.
• Only company with ISO certicates (International Organization for Standardization ) Iso 9001 , ISO 14001 , ISO 21101 , ISO 45001 and CARBON FOOTPRINT certificate.
• Ecofriendly Company.

Day 1: Cusco - Piskacucho Km 82 - Llactapata- Ayapata

Alpaca Expeditions will pick you up from where ever you are staying in Cusco, Urubamba, or Ollantaytambo. Pick-up from Cusco will be from 4 to 4:30 AM, from Urubamba from 5:30 to 6 AM, and if you stay in Ollantaytambo, you get to sleep in a bit with your pick-up from 6:30 to 7 AM. These times will be confirmed at your briefing, as they might fluctuate based on where you are staying. We will take you to the  Porter House  which is located in  Ollantaytambo  after a delicious breakfast prepared by your cook, your guide will introduce you to your team of porters.

We will then drive to Km 82, we’ll go through the first  Inca Trail  checkpoint to begin our trek. Please make sure you have your original passport with you to enter the Inca Trail. The first 2 hours of the trek are relatively easy as we make our way to our first Inca site. Patallacta is an ancient Inca checkpoint for the approach to  Machu Picchu .

From Patallacta it’s another 2-hour hike to our lunch stop. After lunch, we will hike for another 2½ hours until we reach the first night’s campsite at Ayapata (3300 meters). On this last stretch, we pass through 2 small communities. If you want to buy any energy drink, snacks, or essential items you may have forgotten such as batteries you can do so here. We’ll arrive at our campsite by 5:00 PM. After settling in for a bit, you can relax and have a hot drink and snack with your team of porters, chefs, and guides. By 7:30 PM, your dinner will be ready, and after you can get some well-deserved rest.

Day 2: Dead Woman´s Pass - Runcuraccay Pass - Chaquiccocha

Your porters will wake you up early with a hot cup of coca tea to get you ready for the day. We will have an early start since it will be our longest day. We’ll hike for roughly 4 hours to the highest pass of the trek, Dead Woman’s Pass (4215 meters/13829 feet). On reaching the pass, we’ll stop for a short break to enjoy the views before setting off again to descend to the next valley (Pacaymayu Valley – Hidden River). It’s another hour and a half down the side of the valley to our lunch spot, where you will have a chance to refill your water bottles. After lunch, we begin ascending again to the second pass of the trek. It’s 2 hours over the pass where we will stop at a small Inca site (Runcu Raccay) and see two huge waterfalls cascading down the opposite side of the valley. After the second pass, it’s another hour downhill hike to reach the magnificent Inca site, Sayacmarca (an otherwise inaccessible village).

We’ll stop here to rest and have a quick tour. Afterward, we will be able to watch the sunset over the Vilcabamba mountain range.  It’s then just another 20 minutes until we stop for the night at our second campsite Chaquicocha (Dry Lake, 3600 meters). After dinner, if you’re not too exhausted, we can do some star gazing, and we’ll point out the fascinating Inca constellations. In the magnificent Southern Hemisphere sky, away from all the artificial lighting, this sky is something to behold!

Day 3: Chaquiccocha - Wiñaywayna

Completing Day 2 and beginning Day 3 certainly deserves a pat on the back! We will start early again, waking up at 6:30 am to begin what is commonly felt to be the most beautiful day of the whole Inca Trail. We hike for 2 hours along what we like to call “Inca flat” (gradual inclines) and begin to enter the jungle, known as the Cloud Forest. As we walk, we will have the opportunity to see Salkantay, the second highest snow-capped mountain in the Sacred Valley, and a fantastic panoramic view of the Vilcabamba mountain range. Towards the end of the Inca flats, we begin to make our way up to the last peak at Phuyupatamarka (3600 meters) from where we’ll have great views overlooking the Urubamba River.  Down the valley, we get our first view of Machu Picchu Mountain, but the site itself is still hidden. From Phuyupatamarka it´s a 3-hour walk down a flight of steps to our last campsite, close to Wiñay Wayna (Forever Young). Wiñay Wayna is the most spectacular Inca site on the trail after Machu Picchu and the most popular campsite because of its proximity to Machu Picchu.  During the descent, we visit 2 Inca ruins, Phuyupatamarka (Town in the Clouds) and Intipata (Terraces of the Sun).  We arrive at our campsite around 1:00 PM to have lunch.

Then we will relax so that you are ready for your final day at Machu Picchu. At around 4:30 PM your guide will give you a short orientation, and you will visit the Inca ruins of Wiñay Wayna for an hour and a half there. Your guide will explain the significance of the site and combine all the information given during the trek. This way you will be fully prepared for your visit to Machu Picchu the following day. We like to spoil our guests as we enjoy our last feast with the porters and chefs.  It’s an Inca Trail tradition to organize a ceremony in the evening to introduce the team to the tourists once again. This is to thank them for the great job done (if you wish to provide tips for them then you can do so at this time). It is advisable to go to bed at a reasonable time to get up in the early hours of the morning to arrive to Machu Picchu at the crack of dawn in the hopes that the weather will give us a beautiful sunrise over the ruins at Machu Picchu.

Day 4: Sun Gate - Machu Picchu - The Lost City Of The Incas

Wake up time is at 3:30 AM. We’ll eat breakfast at 4:00 AM and wait at the checkpoint to be one of the first to start trekking when they open the gates at 5:30 AM. We’ll wave goodbye to our team of porters and chefs and then it’s “Forward On” to the Sun Gate (Inti Punku). From here we have spectacular views of the mountains and Machu Picchu in all its glory.  We will reach the Sun Gate by 6:30 am, and then it’s just an hour trek down to reach the Lost City of the Incas. As we hike and get closer to Machu Picchu, the views of the city get better! At about 7:40 AM we’ll reach the final checkpoint and enter Machu Picchu to begin our 2 hours private guided tour. After the tour, you’ll be given your bus tickets to make your way down to Aguas Calientes, and you’ll have plenty of free time to explore the city on your own or climb one of the neighboring mountains – Huaynapicchu (must be arranged ahead of time).

Your guide will offer to meet you down in the village of Aguas Calientes to enjoy your last lunch in a local restaurant.  This is optional and not included. At lunch, your guide will hand out train tickets, so if you choose to skip, please arrange to get these before leaving him at Machu Picchu. Unless you arranged for an upgraded train, we will book the Expedition class train departing Aguas Calientes at 2:55 p.m. or  3:20 p.m. Please make sure you are on the platform at least 30 minutes ahead of time.  This will be a 2-hour train to Ollantaytambo, where an Alpaca driver will meet you and drive you back to the city on our bus, then drop you off at your hotel.

WHAT'S INCLUDED?

• Professional Guides: All of our guides studied English and tourism at Cusco National University. They all grew up in this region and have a true passion to teach others about their heritage. They are fun yet professional, and will ensure you are safe and happy.
• Permits and Machu Picchu: In order to hike the Inca Trail, you must have a permit to enter the trail. This can only be obtained by licensed Inca Trail tour operators, like Alpaca Expeditions. As soon as we receive your details and deposit we will purchase your permits. These permits are given for a specific date and in your name. They can’t be changed, once they are confirmed. The only thing that can be updated is your passport number. The permit includes entrance to Machu Picchu.
• Briefing: The night before your trek, you will have a trek briefing at our office with your guide and other trekkers in your group. At the briefing, you will receive your duffel bag, that will be with the porters while you hike. This bag should not exceed 7kg/14 lbs and needs to include your sleeping bag and air mattress, if you have chosen to rent or bring one. Remember, layering your clothes is key.
• A Porter for your Personal Belongings: We include a personal porter who is responsible for carrying your duffel bag. There is no additional fee for this. You will not have access to your duffel bag until your evening campsite. The duffel should not exceed 7kg which will include 4kg of clothes, 3 kg for your sleeping bag and sleeping mat.
• Green Machine Porters: The men and women that make up our porter team are the most loyal, hardest working on the planet. They make magic happen, always with a smile and a helpful hand. They are responsible for carrying all the camping equipment and food, setting up and breaking down each campsite, assist the chef with all food preparation. By law, they can carry up to 20 kg max, which is a rule we take very seriously. For example, with a group of 8 trekkers there will be 15 porters.
• Trekking Chef and Food: Our Porters are not the only ones making magic on the mountain. There is nothing comparable to what the Alpaca Expeditions chefs do on the mountainside. They will make prepare amazing meals for breakfast, lunch and dinner, often starting with a nutritious soup and mostly serving family style. There will always be a protein, salad, assorted sides, and even amazing desserts. They will cater to all food restrictions and make sure everyone has enough to make it up the mountain. Please make sure that your Alpaca Expeditions booking agent knows of any food restrictions at time of booking.
• Water: Water is the key to feeling good on the trek. Hydration helps battle any effects of the altitude, so be prepared with something that can hold at least 3 liters of water. We will provide water at each meal – boiling it, filtering it and then cooling it down to make sure all water is clean and ready to drink. * Water will not be provided until your first lunch when our porters will have the ability to prepare clean water. Please bring enough water for your first morning on the trail.
• Equipment: Alpaca Expeditions uses the best equipment on the market including Eureka Timberline 4 person tents shared by only 2. Single tents are available ($30US). We have large dining tents for clients to enjoy their meals. Every client will receive a pillow for sleeping and foam sleeping pad to insulate you from the cold ground. All dining equipment including chairs and dishes are provided.
• Hotel to Hotel Service: You will be picked up from your hotel the morning of your trek and driven to KM 82 in our comfortable, Alpaca Expeditions van. After the trek, we will drive you from the train station back to your hotel or Air BNB.
• Transportation and Train Service: All your logistics are included in this trek including the bus ticket from Machu Picchu to Aguas Calientes as well as your tourist class train from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo. This is a 2 hour trip and it will be another 2 hours by car back to Cusco. If you wish to upgrade to the Vistadome train, a train with larger windows and more comfortable seats, it will cost $75 per person.
• First Aid: Your safety is our number one concern. All our guides are trained and re-trained every February by a medical doctor. They all carry first-aid kits and full oxygen tanks. If needed, we will get you off the trail as quickly and comfortably as possible to be taken directly to a clinic for treatment. While these situations are rare, we prepare for them.
• Satellite Phones: While our guides can handle most first aid issues that happen on the trek, there are some that need a bit more attention. Every guide has a fully charged satellite phone with them when they leave for a trek. Being a phone call away from any doctor, hospital, or friend helps everyone feel assured that they are safe. Radios, which all our guides have, are limited in how far they can reach, so Alpaca Expeditions includes this feature to make sure that we can connect no matter where we are on the mountain. And they can be used by our clients for non-emergencies as well. While they are not cheap to use, they are available just in case you need to check in on the puppy you left at home with grandma.
• Extras: We believe it´s the attention to small details that separates us from other tour companies. As we wrote earlier, every trekker receives a small pillow to sleep with, a foam mattress for insulation, a day pack cover to protect their things while hiking, and a rain poncho. We provide hot water bins each day to help our clients clean and feel good at night. We enjoy happy hour each evening to relax and unwind and discuss the days events. We will work very hard to create your best vacation.
• Taxes and Fees:  All taxes and permit fees associated with this trek are included in our price. There are no hidden fees.
• The Alpaca Difference: While the below list is less tangible, its equally important and part of everything we do and include at Alpaca Expeditions.
• Ethical and Responsible Treatment to our Porters: Most people would not be able to handle the challenges of these treks if it wasn’t for the porters helping with all the lifting, preparing and cheering. They are the backbone of our company and the reason why Raul Ccolque created Alpaca Expeditions to begin with. He began in this industry as a porter and understands their needs better than anyone. We are dedicated and promise a better life to every member of our Green Machine. This includes better salaries that they can live from so they do not need to beg for tips to make ends meet. This is our job. We provide all their gear including warm, down jackets, proper hiking boots, backpacks, hats, headlamps, sleeping bags and pads and tents for them. We have a Porters House for our porters to sleep in the night before and after their trek since they often travel far from home. We include a medical doctor to work Monday through Friday at the Porters House to tend to our team and make sure they feel good and are looked after. And we support their families with helping their village schools, bringing doctors and dentists to visit with the families, planting trees in their valleys. We are committed to our social projects and it is appreciated by the more than 300 porters on our team.
• Porters Trip: We love meeting all our clients, but our favorite trips are when our porters and their families become our clients. While our porters hike to Machu Picchu dozens of times per year, they never make it inside our famous citadel. We take 4 trips a year to bring our team inside and spend two days travelling around the important ruins and letting them touch and see the history of their ancestors.
• Equality Matters: Another big difference is that we believe that we are all equal and every person contributes something different and beautiful to our team. We have always had female guides and have had female porters and chefs on our team since 2017. While the number are not equal yet, we are hoping for the day when we have 50/50 men and women working on the mountains as part of the Alpaca Expeditions team.
• Sustainable and Responsible Tour Operator: Alpaca Expeditions is far ahead of our competitors on being a sustainable tour operator. We honor our planet by making sure there is no trace behind on any of our treks. We even include an extra porter to make sure they help clean the trash left from other groups. We use local products that are biodegradable and organic whenever possible.

DAY BY DAY INCLUSIONS

• Briefing at our office the night before of your hike to provide the duffle bags
• Pick up from your hotel to begin the hike
• Storage if you have extra luggage
• Breakfast on the first day
• Drive to Km 82 in our AE bus
• Porters bus to transport Porters
• Entrance ticket to the Inca trail
• Porters in general to carry your camping stuff
• We will carry 7km/14pound of personal porter.
• Snack for hiking
• Lunch which will have appetizer, main course and hot drinks
• Happy Hour with hot drinks
• Tents to stay tonight for two people with from pads

DAY 2.- AYAPATA – DEAD WOMENS PASS- RUNKURACCAY PASS – CHAQUICCOCHA

• Wake up coca tea in your tent
• Breakfast to begin the hike
• Snack for during the hike
• Complete lunch with soup, main course, and hot drinks
• Drinking water in the morning, Lunch time and dinner time
• Happy hour with hot drinks upon your arrival to the campsite
• Morning wake up hot drinks
• Drinking water
• 7kg of your clothes is carried by our team
• Lunch Happy hour
• Visit the Inca sites
• Early breakfast
• Entrance ticket to Machu Picchu
• Guided tour of Machu Picchu citadel
• Bus ticket from Machu Picchu citadel to Agaus Calientes
• Expedition class train with great views
• AE bus transfer back to your hotel in Cusco

Not Included

• Rentals Every trekker needs a sleeping bag when camping. Inflatable air mattresses and walking sticks (with rubber tips) are optional but encouraged. If you don’t want to bring any of the above, they are all available for rent: Sleeping Bag : $25 Inflatable Air Mattress : $20 Walking Sticks (Pair) : $20
• Huayna Picchu Huayna Picchu is the mountain that stands next to Machu Picchu. It is a 45-minute hike to the top. Going back down is quite steep if you are scared of heights. You would do this after your tour of Machu Picchu. The cost is $75. Arrangements need to be made at least one month in advance due to popularity. Please understand that the weather is out of our control.

Price per person

• $795 per person

Student Discount

• $35 off per person

Student discounts apply to anyone who has a valid UNIVERSITY STUDENT CARD at the time of the trek or who is 17-years-old or younger. For those using a University Student Card our under 17-years-old, we need to see a copy of their card or passport at the time of booking to receive the discount.

Please send all to  [email protected] .

More Information about   STUDENT CARD

Additional Items

Below is a quick list of prices, but check our Additional Options section for more details.

Huayna Picchu  is the mountain that stands next to Machu Picchu. It is a 45-minute hike to the top. Even when you will do this hike on your own, your guide will still show you the trail entrance. This trek is an additional entrance ticket that we can secure for you with advance notice. 

Your tickets will be purchased to coincide with when you need to start the trail. Tickets are either for the First Session from 7-8 AM or Second Session from 10-11 AM. We purchase the Second Session for our clients for you to enjoy your tour of Machu Picchu before you begin. This window is only your start time, and you may take your time up and down, so no rush.

• The ticket is $75 per person.

Machu Picchu mountain

* Only possible to do if you have an extra day to visit Machu Picchu

Machu Picchu mountain is the other mountain that stands above the Machu Picchu ruins. It offers even more stunning views than  Huayna Picchu  but takes an hour and a half to reach the top. For this trek, it will be an additional entrance ticket that we can secure for you.

Tickets for Machu Picchu Mountain are now also within a timeframe of when you can begin – which is between 9-10 AM. Due to this limited time frame, it is not possible to hike the Inca Trail and hike Machu Picchu Mountain. You can, however, schedule a second visit to the citadel on the next day.

• This ticket is $75 per person.

Vistadome Train

All our tours include the Expedition Train. This train is usually booked at 14:55pm. The Vistadome Train is an upgraded train that offers slightly larger seats, windows, and even some entertainment. Usually, the Vistadome train is booked for 15.20pm departure and travels to Ollantaytambo, where an Alpaca driver will meet you and drive you back to the city on our bus, then drop you off at your hotel.

• This train is $75 per person.

All briefings are done at our office at 6:00 PM the night before your trek. If you are unable to make this time, you need to coordinate another time with a member of the Alpaca Expeditions office team. Briefings are approximately 30 -45 minutes long, and where you will receive your duffel bags.

* 2D/1N Inca Trail Trek with HOTEL does not include a briefing. Our office staff will review all the details at your check-in time.

DUFFEL BAGS

You will receive your duffel bags at your briefing. Your porters will carry them and have them returned to you at each campsite. They measure 66 cm long X 36 cm wide/2ft long X 1ft wide.

Every duffel has a maximum weight of 7kg. Remember 4kg will be for your clothes and other personal items. The remaining 3kg will be for your sleeping bag and pad.

Alpaca Expeditions is one of the only companies to pick you up directly from your hotel. As long as your hotel is in the center of Cusco city, we will coordinate this pickup based on a time that your guide will discuss at the briefing. Pick up times may vary 30 – 45 minutes based on traffic conditions and previous pickups.

Cusco is an old city with cobblestoned streets and very narrow passageways. Smaller hotels and Airbnbs are often located on streets that cars can´t pass through. They also are frequently on hillsides with long steep climbs, making it difficult to carry luggage. We highly recommend that you book accommodations with better access. We have a list of hotels that are all comfortable with easy access to pick up and drop off.  HOTEL LIST HERE .

Some treks will allow for pickups in the Sacred Valley, which is outlined below.

The following chart refers to possible locations we can pick you up from when beginning the tour.

RETURNING TO CUSCO

Leaving Machu Picchu requires a lot of logistics, which are all included in your tour.

• From Machu Picchu to Aguas Calientes, you will take a 25-minute bus down to the village. Buses are first come first serve and run all day.
• You will take a train from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo or Poroy. Your guide will give you your train tickets with train time. Make sure you get to the platform 30 minutes ahead of time. * Train from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo is 2 hours * Train from Aguas Calientes to Poroy is 3.5 hours
• Once you arrive to the train station, look for a gentleman wearing green with an Alpaca Expeditions sign. He will then drive you to San Francisco square, Cusco * Van ride from Ollantaytambo to nearby San Francisco square is 2 hours * Van ride from Poroy to nearby San Francisco square is 30 minutes
• Once you arrive nearby San Francisco square, you will separate into separate pre-paid taxis and driven back to your hotel.

MACHU PICCHU ENTRANCE TIMES

Machu Picchu now has two different time windows of when you can visit: either morning or afternoon. Your entrance ticket will be for only one session, morning session, and when your time window is over, the Rangers will ask you to leave.

MORNING SESSION: 6AM – 12PM

AFTERNOON SESSION: 12PM – 5:30PM

** If you have tickets to hike either Huaynapicchu or Machu Picchu Mountain, you will have some extra time until 2:30PM.

If you would like to spend the whole day at Machu Picchu, we can add an afternoon session ticket to your booking for $55 per person.

HUAYNAPICCHU/MACHU PICCHU MOUNTAIN

Machu Picchu is most beautiful when seen from above, which is why hiking one of the mountains next to the ruins is very popular to do after your tour.

Huaynapicchu  is the most popular and must be booked in advance since it sells out very quickly. This hike takes approximately 45 minutes to the top, and another 45 minutes back down. Tickets are sold in time sessions stating when you can start this hike. The first session is from 7-8 AM, and the 2nd session is from 10-11 AM. Again, this refers to the timeframe when you can start your hike. We usually book the second session so you can enjoy your tour with your guide first. You will do this hike on your own, but your guide will show you where to begin. 

Machu Picchu Mountain  is a bit longer and a bit less popular. It takes 1.5 hours to the top and another 1.5 hours to the bottom. Again there are two time windows – from 7-8 AM and 9-10 AM and we usually purchase the second time window. 4 Day and 7 Day Inca Trail Trekkers CAN NOT do this hike and enjoy a tour of the ruins. Time will not allow for this.

Hiking either mountain will allow you to have some extra time at the ruins once you complete, as listed above.

HEALTH CONCERNS

You must be honest with your guide about any health conditions or concerns you might have. While our guides are not medical professionals, they do have first aid training. We also work with a clinic in Cusco that can help assist our team.

You are responsible for assessing whether a Tour is suitable for you. You should consult your physician to confirm your fitness for travel and participation in any planned activities. You should seek your physician’s advice on vaccinations and medical precautions. Alpaca Expeditions will not provide medical advice. It is your responsibility to assess the risks and requirements of each aspect of the Tour based on your unique circumstances, limitations, fitness level, and medical requirements.

If you develop extreme altitude sickness or any other illness that prevents you from hiking, and you still wish to visit Machu Picchu by train, we will work with you to coordinate this trip. Since this will be a new trip, it may require additional fees. We will use as much of the original itinerary to keep costs low.

If you experience issues while hiking and can not continue, a porter will accompany you to the closest road and wait while a car comes to pick you up and bring you to the nearest health clinic.

GROUP TOURS

Group tours are made up of all different types of people, with various hiking skills and ages. By agreeing to a group tour, you agree that some people might be slower or faster than you are. Everyone can go at their own pace for the trek, and the guide will work with the group to spend time with everyone. Groups might request some modifications to the tour, and the guide will work with everyone to make the best decision for the group.

Unfortunately, strikes are frequent in Peru and can disrupt our tours. Roads are often blocked, and trains stopped. We will make sure your trek continues as planned, even if that means leaving the night before your start date. Under these circumstances, tours might need to be canceled. But our operations department will coordinate with you in this situation. Your safety is always our top concern and will dictate how we decide.

You are responsible for your items throughout the Tour. Please be diligent about where you leave your things and remember to remove all items from our vans, your tents, restaurant, etc. Do not leave anything unintended during your hike. Other trekkers or teams might pick it up not knowing whos it is.

Tipping is part of the tradition of any trek to Machu Picchu. While we pay good wages to our entire team, anything extra is always appreciated. Please know that this is not obligatory and that you should never feel pressured into this.

Typically the participants in a group pool their tipping money together for the porters and chef. The amount recommended is different per trek and listed below. For the guide, this is more personal and needs to be decided based on your relationship with them and done separately from the group. Porters and Chefs prefer soles if possible. Guides are happy with U.S. dollars, Peruvian Soles, or even your credit card 😉

* These numbers refer to what each member of the Green Machine should receive after the group pools their money. This is just a reference guide.

TRAVEL INSURANCE

Travel insurance is inexpensive and strongly recommended. With trips being planned months ahead of time, you never can predict what could happen. Adventure travel includes more risk than the average trip. Insurance is a way to protect the investment you have made on this journey. We can help recommend an agent to walk you through this type of insurance if needed.

Of course, the weather is unpredictable. Typically the dry season in Cusco is from April through October, but this does not stop rain from falling in June or the sun from coming out in December so just be prepared. No matter what month you are doing the trek, make sure that you have rain gear that includes a waterproof jacket, pants, poncho, and waterproof gloves. Many people forget about gloves, but being cold and wet makes hiking very unpleasant.

Also, prepare for four seasons. Several of the treks through the Andes involve various microclimates and you will need to be prepared. Layers are always key since they are easy to adjust to different temperature changes. Be prepared with a warm packable down jacket since the evening will be cold.

It’s also important to note that the weather can change a listed itinerary. There are times that routes become impassable, and our guides will be forced for your safety to rework your tour.

As soon as people book their trip to Peru, specifically Cusco, they start wondering about altitude sickness. The air at high altitudes contains less oxygen than at sea level and forces your body to work harder to get the oxygen it needs. Over several days at high altitude, your body adjusts to the lower amount of oxygen in the air. For this reason, we always recommend spending at least two days in Cusco before beginning any trek in the Andes. Cusco is a marvelous city with lots to do, so if you have more time to acclimate you won´t be bored.

With altitude sickness, you may first feel like you have the flu or a hangover. You may have a headache, tiredness, loss of appetite, nausea or vomiting, dizziness, trouble sleeping, trouble breathing during exercise. If any of these effects become severe, please contact our office, and we will help you get to a doctor.

Most of the time, these symptoms will be mild. We always recommend easing into activity slowly, allowing your body to adjust. Drink plenty of fluids such as water or coca tea. Coca tea has been used since ancient times to help prevent altitude sickness. Leaves from the Coca Plant contain alkaloids that help bring oxygen into your blood, helping your body avoid the effects of altitude sickness. Avoid drinking a lot of alcohol and coffee. They will cause you to urinate more often and become dehydrated. Avoid smoking. Smoking makes it more difficult for your body to get oxygen. Avoid sleeping pills. They may cause shallow breathing at night, making it more difficult for your body to absorb oxygen while you sleep.

Remember the trek to Machu Picchu is not a race. Even those in the best shape will suffer from altitude sickness if they race to the top of the mountain too quickly. Go slow, and it will give your body time to adjust to the elevation.

Your healthcare provider may prescribe medications, such as acetazolamide and dexamethasone, to help prevent altitude sickness. Start the medicine two days before you get to a high altitude. Continue to take it while you are at high altitude.

You must remember that this is your holiday and you do not want to stress out about the possibility of getting sick from the mountains. Do everything slowly and drink lots of water, and enjoy the coca tea. If anything does happen and you, unfortunately, get sick, let your guide know right away. Alpaca Expedition guides are trained to help you get through it.

GETTING TO CUSCO

The airport in Cusco currently is only for domestic flights, so all international travelers by plane must disembark in Lima and go through Customs. Even if your flight to Cusco is the same day by the same airline carrier, you must grab your bags in Lima and then check them back in.

The best way to get to Cusco is by air, and there are several options in airlines. LAN tends to be the most expensive but has the most options and flights. Expect delays or flight cancellations. Due to the high altitude of Cusco, it tends to be difficult to land, and any acclimate weather will stop air traffic. Bus travel is always available, and while the trip can be long, especially from Lima, the buses in Peru are very well maintained and comfortable. This option is strongly encouraged if coming from a city closer to Cusco, like Puno. Lima buses will take about 20 hours to arrive.

• Valid, STUDENT CARD (if you booked as a student)
• Immigration Card (given on the plane as you enter Peru)
• Good daypack (the smaller, the better)
• Water storage: Water reservoir like Camelbaks are encouraged – but enough for at least 2-3 liters.
• Comfortable hiking boots (lightweight with good soles)

FOR YOUR DUFFEL

Porters will carry up to 7 kg of your personal items. This must include your sleeping bag and air matt (if you bring/rent one). From us these two items weigh 3.5 kg.

• 2-3 wicking t-shirts
• 2-3 hiking pants
• 4 sets of undergarments.
• 4 sets of hiking socks
• 1 Warm, down jacket: gets very cold at night
• 1 Rain jacket and pants
• Headlamp: essential
• Waterproof gloves (even if they are ski gloves, take them)
• Comfortable shoes for camp
• Walking boots
• Waterproof jacket/rain poncho
• Quickdry towel. We provide small ones, you might enjoy something a little larger.
• Small bottle of soap: we provide warm water each day to clean – might make you feel fresh if you had a little soap.
• Battery Charger: There is no place to plug in while trekking!
• Large plastic bags: to help organize and keep clean from dirty.
• Sleeping bag: Recommend down bags for -10C at least
• Face moisturizer
• Handsanitizer
• Toothbrush and paste
• Toiletpaper
• Personal medication
• First aid kit: band aids, moleskin, etc.

INSIDE YOUR DAYPACKS

Daypacks can be any size for hiking, but we always say the smaller, the better. Inside Machu Picchu, bags larger than 25L will not be allowed in. If it is larger, you will need to store it outside citadel gates. But don´t worry, they have a secure storage facility.

• Water: we supply clean water at each meal. You are responsible for your first morning of water only as we won’t have time to filter water until your first lunch.
• Music (IPhone)
• Toilet paper and small plastic bag for waste
• Extra Money for Souvenirs, Drinks & Tips

Inca Trail (Classic) 4D/3N Group Tour

Please fill in our BOOKING FORM carefully with your correct personal details.

Select a departure date

• August 2024
• September 2024
• October 2024
• November 2024
• December 2024

Upcoming departures

• Monday Apr 01, 2024 Thursday Apr 04, 2024 Adult: USD$ 795 Student: USD$ 760
• Tuesday Apr 02, 2024 Friday Apr 05, 2024 Adult: USD$ 795 Student: USD$ 760
• Wednesday Apr 03, 2024 Saturday Apr 06, 2024 Adult: USD$ 795 Student: USD$ 760
• Thursday Apr 04, 2024 Sunday Apr 07, 2024 Adult: USD$ 795 Student: USD$ 760
• Friday Apr 05, 2024 Monday Apr 08, 2024 Adult: USD$ 795 Student: USD$ 760
• Saturday Apr 06, 2024 Tuesday Apr 09, 2024 Adult: USD$ 795 Student: USD$ 760
• Sunday Apr 07, 2024 Wednesday Apr 10, 2024 Adult: USD$ 795 Student: USD$ 760
• Monday Apr 08, 2024 Thursday Apr 11, 2024 Adult: USD$ 795 Student: USD$ 760
• Tuesday Apr 09, 2024 Friday Apr 12, 2024 Adult: USD$ 795 Student: USD$ 760
• Wednesday Apr 10, 2024 Saturday Apr 13, 2024 Adult: USD$ 795 Student: USD$ 760
• Thursday Apr 11, 2024 Sunday Apr 14, 2024 Adult: USD$ 795 Student: USD$ 760
• Friday Apr 12, 2024 Monday Apr 15, 2024 Adult: USD$ 795 Student: USD$ 760
• Saturday Apr 13, 2024 Tuesday Apr 16, 2024 Adult: USD$ 795 Student: USD$ 760
• Sunday Apr 14, 2024 Wednesday Apr 17, 2024 Adult: USD$ 795 Student: USD$ 760
• Monday Apr 15, 2024 Thursday Apr 18, 2024 Adult: USD$ 795 Student: USD$ 760
• Tuesday Apr 16, 2024 Friday Apr 19, 2024 Adult: USD$ 795 Student: USD$ 760
• Wednesday Apr 17, 2024 Saturday Apr 20, 2024 Adult: USD$ 795 Student: USD$ 760
• Thursday Apr 18, 2024 Sunday Apr 21, 2024 Adult: USD$ 795 Student: USD$ 760
• Friday Apr 19, 2024 Monday Apr 22, 2024 Adult: USD$ 795 Student: USD$ 760
• Saturday Apr 20, 2024 Tuesday Apr 23, 2024 Adult: USD$ 795 Student: USD$ 760
• Sunday Apr 21, 2024 Wednesday Apr 24, 2024 Adult: USD$ 795 Student: USD$ 760
• Monday Apr 22, 2024 Thursday Apr 25, 2024 Adult: USD$ 795 Student: USD$ 760
• Tuesday Apr 23, 2024 Friday Apr 26, 2024 Adult: USD$ 795 Student: USD$ 760
• Wednesday Apr 24, 2024 Saturday Apr 27, 2024 Adult: USD$ 795 Student: USD$ 760
• Thursday Apr 25, 2024 Sunday Apr 28, 2024 Adult: USD$ 795 Student: USD$ 760
• Friday Apr 26, 2024 Monday Apr 29, 2024 Adult: USD$ 795 Student: USD$ 760
• Saturday Apr 27, 2024 Tuesday Apr 30, 2024 Adult: USD$ 795 Student: USD$ 760
• Sunday Apr 28, 2024 Wednesday May 01, 2024 Adult: USD$ 795 Student: USD$ 760
• Monday Apr 29, 2024 Thursday May 02, 2024 Adult: USD$ 795 Student: USD$ 760
• Tuesday Apr 30, 2024 Friday May 03, 2024 Adult: USD$ 795 Student: USD$ 760
• Wednesday May 01, 2024 Saturday May 04, 2024 Adult: USD$ 795 Student: USD$ 760
• Thursday May 02, 2024 Sunday May 05, 2024 Adult: USD$ 795 Student: USD$ 760
• Friday May 03, 2024 Monday May 06, 2024 Adult: USD$ 795 Student: USD$ 760
• Saturday May 04, 2024 Tuesday May 07, 2024 Adult: USD$ 795 Student: USD$ 760
• Sunday May 05, 2024 Wednesday May 08, 2024 Adult: USD$ 795 Student: USD$ 760
• Monday May 06, 2024 Thursday May 09, 2024 Adult: USD$ 795 Student: USD$ 760
• Tuesday May 07, 2024 Friday May 10, 2024 Adult: USD$ 795 Student: USD$ 760
• Wednesday May 08, 2024 Saturday May 11, 2024 Adult: USD$ 795 Student: USD$ 760
• Thursday May 09, 2024 Sunday May 12, 2024 Adult: USD$ 795 Student: USD$ 760
• Friday May 10, 2024 Monday May 13, 2024 Adult: USD$ 795 Student: USD$ 760
• Saturday May 11, 2024 Tuesday May 14, 2024 Adult: USD$ 795 Student: USD$ 760
• Sunday May 12, 2024 Wednesday May 15, 2024 Adult: USD$ 795 Student: USD$ 760
• Monday May 13, 2024 Thursday May 16, 2024 Adult: USD$ 795 Student: USD$ 760
• Tuesday May 14, 2024 Friday May 17, 2024 Adult: USD$ 795 Student: USD$ 760
• Wednesday May 15, 2024 Saturday May 18, 2024 Adult: USD$ 795 Student: USD$ 760
• Thursday May 16, 2024 Sunday May 19, 2024 Adult: USD$ 795 Student: USD$ 760
• Friday May 17, 2024 Monday May 20, 2024 Adult: USD$ 795 Student: USD$ 760
• Saturday May 18, 2024 Tuesday May 21, 2024 Adult: USD$ 795 Student: USD$ 760
• Sunday May 19, 2024 Wednesday May 22, 2024 Adult: USD$ 795 Student: USD$ 760
• Monday May 20, 2024 Thursday May 23, 2024 Adult: USD$ 795 Student: USD$ 760
• Tuesday May 21, 2024 Friday May 24, 2024 Adult: USD$ 795 Student: USD$ 760
• Wednesday May 22, 2024 Saturday May 25, 2024 Adult: USD$ 795 Student: USD$ 760
• Thursday May 23, 2024 Sunday May 26, 2024 Adult: USD$ 795 Student: USD$ 760
• Friday May 24, 2024 Monday May 27, 2024 Adult: USD$ 795 Student: USD$ 760
• Saturday May 25, 2024 Tuesday May 28, 2024 Adult: USD$ 795 Student: USD$ 760
• Sunday May 26, 2024 Wednesday May 29, 2024 Adult: USD$ 795 Student: USD$ 760
• Monday May 27, 2024 Thursday May 30, 2024 Adult: USD$ 795 Student: USD$ 760
• Tuesday May 28, 2024 Friday May 31, 2024 Adult: USD$ 795 Student: USD$ 760
• Wednesday May 29, 2024 Saturday Jun 01, 2024 Adult: USD$ 795 Student: USD$ 760
• Thursday May 30, 2024 Sunday Jun 02, 2024 Adult: USD$ 795 Student: USD$ 760
• Friday May 31, 2024 Monday Jun 03, 2024 Adult: USD$ 795 Student: USD$ 760
• Saturday Jun 01, 2024 Tuesday Jun 04, 2024 Adult: USD$ 795 Student: USD$ 760
• Sunday Jun 02, 2024 Wednesday Jun 05, 2024 Adult: USD$ 795 Student: USD$ 760
• Monday Jun 03, 2024 Thursday Jun 06, 2024 Adult: USD$ 795 Student: USD$ 760
• Tuesday Jun 04, 2024 Friday Jun 07, 2024 Adult: USD$ 795 Student: USD$ 760
• Wednesday Jun 05, 2024 Saturday Jun 08, 2024 Adult: USD$ 795 Student: USD$ 760
• Thursday Jun 06, 2024 Sunday Jun 09, 2024 Adult: USD$ 795 Student: USD$ 760
• Friday Jun 07, 2024 Monday Jun 10, 2024 Adult: USD$ 795 Student: USD$ 760
• Saturday Jun 08, 2024 Tuesday Jun 11, 2024 Adult: USD$ 795 Student: USD$ 760
• Sunday Jun 09, 2024 Wednesday Jun 12, 2024 Adult: USD$ 795 Student: USD$ 760
• Monday Jun 10, 2024 Thursday Jun 13, 2024 Adult: USD$ 795 Student: USD$ 760
• Tuesday Jun 11, 2024 Friday Jun 14, 2024 Adult: USD$ 795 Student: USD$ 760
• Wednesday Jun 12, 2024 Saturday Jun 15, 2024 Adult: USD$ 795 Student: USD$ 760
• Thursday Jun 13, 2024 Sunday Jun 16, 2024 Adult: USD$ 795 Student: USD$ 760
• Friday Jun 14, 2024 Monday Jun 17, 2024 Adult: USD$ 795 Student: USD$ 760
• Saturday Jun 15, 2024 Tuesday Jun 18, 2024 Adult: USD$ 795 Student: USD$ 760
• Sunday Jun 16, 2024 Wednesday Jun 19, 2024 Adult: USD$ 795 Student: USD$ 760
• Monday Jun 17, 2024 Thursday Jun 20, 2024 Adult: USD$ 795 Student: USD$ 760
• Tuesday Jun 18, 2024 Friday Jun 21, 2024 Adult: USD$ 795 Student: USD$ 760
• Wednesday Jun 19, 2024 Saturday Jun 22, 2024 Adult: USD$ 795 Student: USD$ 760
• Thursday Jun 20, 2024 Sunday Jun 23, 2024 Adult: USD$ 795 Student: USD$ 760
• Friday Jun 21, 2024 Monday Jun 24, 2024 Adult: USD$ 795 Student: USD$ 760
• Saturday Jun 22, 2024 Tuesday Jun 25, 2024 Adult: USD$ 795 Student: USD$ 760
• Sunday Jun 23, 2024 Wednesday Jun 26, 2024 Adult: USD$ 795 Student: USD$ 760
• Monday Jun 24, 2024 Thursday Jun 27, 2024 Adult: USD$ 795 Student: USD$ 760
• Tuesday Jun 25, 2024 Friday Jun 28, 2024 Adult: USD$ 795 Student: USD$ 760
• Wednesday Jun 26, 2024 Saturday Jun 29, 2024 Adult: USD$ 795 Student: USD$ 760
• Thursday Jun 27, 2024 Sunday Jun 30, 2024 Adult: USD$ 795 Student: USD$ 760
• Friday Jun 28, 2024 Monday Jul 01, 2024 Adult: USD$ 795 Student: USD$ 760
• Saturday Jun 29, 2024 Tuesday Jul 02, 2024 Adult: USD$ 795 Student: USD$ 760
• Sunday Jun 30, 2024 Wednesday Jul 03, 2024 Adult: USD$ 795 Student: USD$ 760
• Monday Jul 01, 2024 Thursday Jul 04, 2024 Adult: USD$ 795 Student: USD$ 760
• Tuesday Jul 02, 2024 Friday Jul 05, 2024 Adult: USD$ 795 Student: USD$ 760
• Wednesday Jul 03, 2024 Saturday Jul 06, 2024 Adult: USD$ 795 Student: USD$ 760
• Thursday Jul 04, 2024 Sunday Jul 07, 2024 Adult: USD$ 795 Student: USD$ 760
• Friday Jul 05, 2024 Monday Jul 08, 2024 Adult: USD$ 795 Student: USD$ 760
• Saturday Jul 06, 2024 Tuesday Jul 09, 2024 Adult: USD$ 795 Student: USD$ 760
• Sunday Jul 07, 2024 Wednesday Jul 10, 2024 Adult: USD$ 795 Student: USD$ 760
• Monday Jul 08, 2024 Thursday Jul 11, 2024 Adult: USD$ 795 Student: USD$ 760
• Tuesday Jul 09, 2024 Friday Jul 12, 2024 Adult: USD$ 795 Student: USD$ 760
• Wednesday Jul 10, 2024 Saturday Jul 13, 2024 Adult: USD$ 795 Student: USD$ 760
• Thursday Jul 11, 2024 Sunday Jul 14, 2024 Adult: USD$ 795 Student: USD$ 760
• Friday Jul 12, 2024 Monday Jul 15, 2024 Adult: USD$ 795 Student: USD$ 760
• Saturday Jul 13, 2024 Tuesday Jul 16, 2024 Adult: USD$ 795 Student: USD$ 760
• Sunday Jul 14, 2024 Wednesday Jul 17, 2024 Adult: USD$ 795 Student: USD$ 760
• Monday Jul 15, 2024 Thursday Jul 18, 2024 Adult: USD$ 795 Student: USD$ 760
• Tuesday Jul 16, 2024 Friday Jul 19, 2024 Adult: USD$ 795 Student: USD$ 760
• Wednesday Jul 17, 2024 Saturday Jul 20, 2024 Adult: USD$ 795 Student: USD$ 760
• Thursday Jul 18, 2024 Sunday Jul 21, 2024 Adult: USD$ 795 Student: USD$ 760
• Friday Jul 19, 2024 Monday Jul 22, 2024 Adult: USD$ 795 Student: USD$ 760
• Saturday Jul 20, 2024 Tuesday Jul 23, 2024 Adult: USD$ 795 Student: USD$ 760
• Sunday Jul 21, 2024 Wednesday Jul 24, 2024 Adult: USD$ 795 Student: USD$ 760
• Monday Jul 22, 2024 Thursday Jul 25, 2024 Adult: USD$ 795 Student: USD$ 760
• Tuesday Jul 23, 2024 Friday Jul 26, 2024 Adult: USD$ 795 Student: USD$ 760
• Wednesday Jul 24, 2024 Saturday Jul 27, 2024 Adult: USD$ 795 Student: USD$ 760
• Thursday Jul 25, 2024 Sunday Jul 28, 2024 Adult: USD$ 795 Student: USD$ 760
• Friday Jul 26, 2024 Monday Jul 29, 2024 Adult: USD$ 795 Student: USD$ 760
• Saturday Jul 27, 2024 Tuesday Jul 30, 2024 Adult: USD$ 795 Student: USD$ 760
• Sunday Jul 28, 2024 Wednesday Jul 31, 2024 Adult: USD$ 795 Student: USD$ 760
• Monday Jul 29, 2024 Thursday Aug 01, 2024 Adult: USD$ 795 Student: USD$ 760
• Tuesday Jul 30, 2024 Friday Aug 02, 2024 Adult: USD$ 795 Student: USD$ 760
• Wednesday Jul 31, 2024 Saturday Aug 03, 2024 Adult: USD$ 795 Student: USD$ 760
• Thursday Aug 01, 2024 Sunday Aug 04, 2024 Adult: USD$ 795 Student: USD$ 760
• Friday Aug 02, 2024 Monday Aug 05, 2024 Adult: USD$ 795 Student: USD$ 760
• Saturday Aug 03, 2024 Tuesday Aug 06, 2024 Adult: USD$ 795 Student: USD$ 760
• Sunday Aug 04, 2024 Wednesday Aug 07, 2024 Adult: USD$ 795 Student: USD$ 760
• Monday Aug 05, 2024 Thursday Aug 08, 2024 Adult: USD$ 795 Student: USD$ 760
• Tuesday Aug 06, 2024 Friday Aug 09, 2024 Adult: USD$ 795 Student: USD$ 760
• Wednesday Aug 07, 2024 Saturday Aug 10, 2024 Adult: USD$ 795 Student: USD$ 760
• Thursday Aug 08, 2024 Sunday Aug 11, 2024 Adult: USD$ 795 Student: USD$ 760
• Friday Aug 09, 2024 Monday Aug 12, 2024 Adult: USD$ 795 Student: USD$ 760
• Saturday Aug 10, 2024 Tuesday Aug 13, 2024 Adult: USD$ 795 Student: USD$ 760
• Sunday Aug 11, 2024 Wednesday Aug 14, 2024 Adult: USD$ 795 Student: USD$ 760
• Monday Aug 12, 2024 Thursday Aug 15, 2024 Adult: USD$ 795 Student: USD$ 760
• Tuesday Aug 13, 2024 Friday Aug 16, 2024 Adult: USD$ 795 Student: USD$ 760
• Wednesday Aug 14, 2024 Saturday Aug 17, 2024 Adult: USD$ 795 Student: USD$ 760
• Thursday Aug 15, 2024 Sunday Aug 18, 2024 Adult: USD$ 795 Student: USD$ 760
• Friday Aug 16, 2024 Monday Aug 19, 2024 Adult: USD$ 795 Student: USD$ 760
• Saturday Aug 17, 2024 Tuesday Aug 20, 2024 Adult: USD$ 795 Student: USD$ 760
• Sunday Aug 18, 2024 Wednesday Aug 21, 2024 Adult: USD$ 795 Student: USD$ 760
• Monday Aug 19, 2024 Thursday Aug 22, 2024 Adult: USD$ 795 Student: USD$ 760
• Tuesday Aug 20, 2024 Friday Aug 23, 2024 Adult: USD$ 795 Student: USD$ 760
• Wednesday Aug 21, 2024 Saturday Aug 24, 2024 Adult: USD$ 795 Student: USD$ 760
• Thursday Aug 22, 2024 Sunday Aug 25, 2024 Adult: USD$ 795 Student: USD$ 760
• Friday Aug 23, 2024 Monday Aug 26, 2024 Adult: USD$ 795 Student: USD$ 760
• Saturday Aug 24, 2024 Tuesday Aug 27, 2024 Adult: USD$ 795 Student: USD$ 760
• Sunday Aug 25, 2024 Wednesday Aug 28, 2024 Adult: USD$ 795 Student: USD$ 760
• Monday Aug 26, 2024 Thursday Aug 29, 2024 Adult: USD$ 795 Student: USD$ 760
• Tuesday Aug 27, 2024 Friday Aug 30, 2024 Adult: USD$ 795 Student: USD$ 760
• Wednesday Aug 28, 2024 Saturday Aug 31, 2024 Adult: USD$ 795 Student: USD$ 760
• Thursday Aug 29, 2024 Sunday Sep 01, 2024 Adult: USD$ 795 Student: USD$ 760
• Friday Aug 30, 2024 Monday Sep 02, 2024 Adult: USD$ 795 Student: USD$ 760
• Saturday Aug 31, 2024 Tuesday Sep 03, 2024 Adult: USD$ 795 Student: USD$ 760
• Sunday Sep 01, 2024 Wednesday Sep 04, 2024 Adult: USD$ 795 Student: USD$ 760
• Monday Sep 02, 2024 Thursday Sep 05, 2024 Adult: USD$ 795 Student: USD$ 760
• Tuesday Sep 03, 2024 Friday Sep 06, 2024 Adult: USD$ 795 Student: USD$ 760
• Wednesday Sep 04, 2024 Saturday Sep 07, 2024 Adult: USD$ 795 Student: USD$ 760
• Thursday Sep 05, 2024 Sunday Sep 08, 2024 Adult: USD$ 795 Student: USD$ 760
• Friday Sep 06, 2024 Monday Sep 09, 2024 Adult: USD$ 795 Student: USD$ 760
• Saturday Sep 07, 2024 Tuesday Sep 10, 2024 Adult: USD$ 795 Student: USD$ 760
• Sunday Sep 08, 2024 Wednesday Sep 11, 2024 Adult: USD$ 795 Student: USD$ 760
• Monday Sep 09, 2024 Thursday Sep 12, 2024 Adult: USD$ 795 Student: USD$ 760
• Tuesday Sep 10, 2024 Friday Sep 13, 2024 Adult: USD$ 795 Student: USD$ 760
• Wednesday Sep 11, 2024 Saturday Sep 14, 2024 Adult: USD$ 795 Student: USD$ 760
• Thursday Sep 12, 2024 Sunday Sep 15, 2024 Adult: USD$ 795 Student: USD$ 760
• Friday Sep 13, 2024 Monday Sep 16, 2024 Adult: USD$ 795 Student: USD$ 760
• Saturday Sep 14, 2024 Tuesday Sep 17, 2024 Adult: USD$ 795 Student: USD$ 760
• Sunday Sep 15, 2024 Wednesday Sep 18, 2024 Adult: USD$ 795 Student: USD$ 760
• Monday Sep 16, 2024 Thursday Sep 19, 2024 Adult: USD$ 795 Student: USD$ 760
• Tuesday Sep 17, 2024 Friday Sep 20, 2024 Adult: USD$ 795 Student: USD$ 760
• Wednesday Sep 18, 2024 Saturday Sep 21, 2024 Adult: USD$ 795 Student: USD$ 760
• Thursday Sep 19, 2024 Sunday Sep 22, 2024 Adult: USD$ 795 Student: USD$ 760
• Friday Sep 20, 2024 Monday Sep 23, 2024 Adult: USD$ 795 Student: USD$ 760
• Saturday Sep 21, 2024 Tuesday Sep 24, 2024 Adult: USD$ 795 Student: USD$ 760
• Sunday Sep 22, 2024 Wednesday Sep 25, 2024 Adult: USD$ 795 Student: USD$ 760
• Monday Sep 23, 2024 Thursday Sep 26, 2024 Adult: USD$ 795 Student: USD$ 760
• Tuesday Sep 24, 2024 Friday Sep 27, 2024 Adult: USD$ 795 Student: USD$ 760
• Wednesday Sep 25, 2024 Saturday Sep 28, 2024 Adult: USD$ 795 Student: USD$ 760
• Thursday Sep 26, 2024 Sunday Sep 29, 2024 Adult: USD$ 795 Student: USD$ 760
• Friday Sep 27, 2024 Monday Sep 30, 2024 Adult: USD$ 795 Student: USD$ 760
• Saturday Sep 28, 2024 Tuesday Oct 01, 2024 Adult: USD$ 795 Student: USD$ 760
• Sunday Sep 29, 2024 Wednesday Oct 02, 2024 Adult: USD$ 795 Student: USD$ 760
• Monday Sep 30, 2024 Thursday Oct 03, 2024 Adult: USD$ 795 Student: USD$ 760
• Tuesday Oct 01, 2024 Friday Oct 04, 2024 Adult: USD$ 795 Student: USD$ 760
• Wednesday Oct 02, 2024 Saturday Oct 05, 2024 Adult: USD$ 795 Student: USD$ 760
• Thursday Oct 03, 2024 Sunday Oct 06, 2024 Adult: USD$ 795 Student: USD$ 760
• Friday Oct 04, 2024 Monday Oct 07, 2024 Adult: USD$ 795 Student: USD$ 760
• Saturday Oct 05, 2024 Tuesday Oct 08, 2024 Adult: USD$ 795 Student: USD$ 760
• Sunday Oct 06, 2024 Wednesday Oct 09, 2024 Adult: USD$ 795 Student: USD$ 760
• Monday Oct 07, 2024 Thursday Oct 10, 2024 Adult: USD$ 795 Student: USD$ 760
• Tuesday Oct 08, 2024 Friday Oct 11, 2024 Adult: USD$ 795 Student: USD$ 760
• Wednesday Oct 09, 2024 Saturday Oct 12, 2024 Adult: USD$ 795 Student: USD$ 760
• Thursday Oct 10, 2024 Sunday Oct 13, 2024 Adult: USD$ 795 Student: USD$ 760
• Friday Oct 11, 2024 Monday Oct 14, 2024 Adult: USD$ 795 Student: USD$ 760
• Saturday Oct 12, 2024 Tuesday Oct 15, 2024 Adult: USD$ 795 Student: USD$ 760
• Sunday Oct 13, 2024 Wednesday Oct 16, 2024 Adult: USD$ 795 Student: USD$ 760
• Monday Oct 14, 2024 Thursday Oct 17, 2024 Adult: USD$ 795 Student: USD$ 760
• Tuesday Oct 15, 2024 Friday Oct 18, 2024 Adult: USD$ 795 Student: USD$ 760
• Wednesday Oct 16, 2024 Saturday Oct 19, 2024 Adult: USD$ 795 Student: USD$ 760
• Thursday Oct 17, 2024 Sunday Oct 20, 2024 Adult: USD$ 795 Student: USD$ 760
• Friday Oct 18, 2024 Monday Oct 21, 2024 Adult: USD$ 795 Student: USD$ 760
• Saturday Oct 19, 2024 Tuesday Oct 22, 2024 Adult: USD$ 795 Student: USD$ 760
• Sunday Oct 20, 2024 Wednesday Oct 23, 2024 Adult: USD$ 795 Student: USD$ 760
• Monday Oct 21, 2024 Thursday Oct 24, 2024 Adult: USD$ 795 Student: USD$ 760
• Tuesday Oct 22, 2024 Friday Oct 25, 2024 Adult: USD$ 795 Student: USD$ 760
• Wednesday Oct 23, 2024 Saturday Oct 26, 2024 Adult: USD$ 795 Student: USD$ 760
• Thursday Oct 24, 2024 Sunday Oct 27, 2024 Adult: USD$ 795 Student: USD$ 760
• Friday Oct 25, 2024 Monday Oct 28, 2024 Adult: USD$ 795 Student: USD$ 760
• Saturday Oct 26, 2024 Tuesday Oct 29, 2024 Adult: USD$ 795 Student: USD$ 760
• Sunday Oct 27, 2024 Wednesday Oct 30, 2024 Adult: USD$ 795 Student: USD$ 760
• Monday Oct 28, 2024 Thursday Oct 31, 2024 Adult: USD$ 795 Student: USD$ 760
• Tuesday Oct 29, 2024 Friday Nov 01, 2024 Adult: USD$ 795 Student: USD$ 760
• Wednesday Oct 30, 2024 Saturday Nov 02, 2024 Adult: USD$ 795 Student: USD$ 760
• Thursday Oct 31, 2024 Sunday Nov 03, 2024 Adult: USD$ 795 Student: USD$ 760
• Friday Nov 01, 2024 Monday Nov 04, 2024 Adult: USD$ 795 Student: USD$ 760
• Saturday Nov 02, 2024 Tuesday Nov 05, 2024 Adult: USD$ 795 Student: USD$ 760
• Sunday Nov 03, 2024 Wednesday Nov 06, 2024 Adult: USD$ 795 Student: USD$ 760
• Monday Nov 04, 2024 Thursday Nov 07, 2024 Adult: USD$ 795 Student: USD$ 760
• Tuesday Nov 05, 2024 Friday Nov 08, 2024 Adult: USD$ 795 Student: USD$ 760
• Wednesday Nov 06, 2024 Saturday Nov 09, 2024 Adult: USD$ 795 Student: USD$ 760
• Thursday Nov 07, 2024 Sunday Nov 10, 2024 Adult: USD$ 795 Student: USD$ 760
• Friday Nov 08, 2024 Monday Nov 11, 2024 Adult: USD$ 795 Student: USD$ 760
• Saturday Nov 09, 2024 Tuesday Nov 12, 2024 Adult: USD$ 795 Student: USD$ 760
• Sunday Nov 10, 2024 Wednesday Nov 13, 2024 Adult: USD$ 795 Student: USD$ 760
• Monday Nov 11, 2024 Thursday Nov 14, 2024 Adult: USD$ 795 Student: USD$ 760
• Tuesday Nov 12, 2024 Friday Nov 15, 2024 Adult: USD$ 795 Student: USD$ 760
• Wednesday Nov 13, 2024 Saturday Nov 16, 2024 Adult: USD$ 795 Student: USD$ 760
• Thursday Nov 14, 2024 Sunday Nov 17, 2024 Adult: USD$ 795 Student: USD$ 760
• Friday Nov 15, 2024 Monday Nov 18, 2024 Adult: USD$ 795 Student: USD$ 760
• Saturday Nov 16, 2024 Tuesday Nov 19, 2024 Adult: USD$ 795 Student: USD$ 760
• Sunday Nov 17, 2024 Wednesday Nov 20, 2024 Adult: USD$ 795 Student: USD$ 760
• Monday Nov 18, 2024 Thursday Nov 21, 2024 Adult: USD$ 795 Student: USD$ 760
• Tuesday Nov 19, 2024 Friday Nov 22, 2024 Adult: USD$ 795 Student: USD$ 760
• Wednesday Nov 20, 2024 Saturday Nov 23, 2024 Adult: USD$ 795 Student: USD$ 760
• Thursday Nov 21, 2024 Sunday Nov 24, 2024 Adult: USD$ 795 Student: USD$ 760
• Friday Nov 22, 2024 Monday Nov 25, 2024 Adult: USD$ 795 Student: USD$ 760
• Saturday Nov 23, 2024 Tuesday Nov 26, 2024 Adult: USD$ 795 Student: USD$ 760
• Sunday Nov 24, 2024 Wednesday Nov 27, 2024 Adult: USD$ 795 Student: USD$ 760
• Monday Nov 25, 2024 Thursday Nov 28, 2024 Adult: USD$ 795 Student: USD$ 760
• Tuesday Nov 26, 2024 Friday Nov 29, 2024 Adult: USD$ 795 Student: USD$ 760
• Wednesday Nov 27, 2024 Saturday Nov 30, 2024 Adult: USD$ 795 Student: USD$ 760
• Thursday Nov 28, 2024 Sunday Dec 01, 2024 Adult: USD$ 795 Student: USD$ 760
• Friday Nov 29, 2024 Monday Dec 02, 2024 Adult: USD$ 795 Student: USD$ 760
• Saturday Nov 30, 2024 Tuesday Dec 03, 2024 Adult: USD$ 795 Student: USD$ 760
• Sunday Dec 01, 2024 Wednesday Dec 04, 2024 Adult: USD$ 795 Student: USD$ 760
• Monday Dec 02, 2024 Thursday Dec 05, 2024 Adult: USD$ 795 Student: USD$ 760
• Tuesday Dec 03, 2024 Friday Dec 06, 2024 Adult: USD$ 795 Student: USD$ 760
• Wednesday Dec 04, 2024 Saturday Dec 07, 2024 Adult: USD$ 795 Student: USD$ 760
• Thursday Dec 05, 2024 Sunday Dec 08, 2024 Adult: USD$ 795 Student: USD$ 760
• Friday Dec 06, 2024 Monday Dec 09, 2024 Adult: USD$ 795 Student: USD$ 760
• Saturday Dec 07, 2024 Tuesday Dec 10, 2024 Adult: USD$ 795 Student: USD$ 760
• Sunday Dec 08, 2024 Wednesday Dec 11, 2024 Adult: USD$ 795 Student: USD$ 760
• Monday Dec 09, 2024 Thursday Dec 12, 2024 Adult: USD$ 795 Student: USD$ 760
• Tuesday Dec 10, 2024 Friday Dec 13, 2024 Adult: USD$ 795 Student: USD$ 760
• Wednesday Dec 11, 2024 Saturday Dec 14, 2024 Adult: USD$ 795 Student: USD$ 760
• Thursday Dec 12, 2024 Sunday Dec 15, 2024 Adult: USD$ 795 Student: USD$ 760
• Friday Dec 13, 2024 Monday Dec 16, 2024 Adult: USD$ 795 Student: USD$ 760
• Saturday Dec 14, 2024 Tuesday Dec 17, 2024 Adult: USD$ 795 Student: USD$ 760
• Sunday Dec 15, 2024 Wednesday Dec 18, 2024 Adult: USD$ 795 Student: USD$ 760
• Monday Dec 16, 2024 Thursday Dec 19, 2024 Adult: USD$ 795 Student: USD$ 760
• Tuesday Dec 17, 2024 Friday Dec 20, 2024 Adult: USD$ 795 Student: USD$ 760
• Wednesday Dec 18, 2024 Saturday Dec 21, 2024 Adult: USD$ 795 Student: USD$ 760
• Thursday Dec 19, 2024 Sunday Dec 22, 2024 Adult: USD$ 795 Student: USD$ 760
• Friday Dec 20, 2024 Monday Dec 23, 2024 Adult: USD$ 795 Student: USD$ 760
• Saturday Dec 21, 2024 Tuesday Dec 24, 2024 Adult: USD$ 795 Student: USD$ 760
• Sunday Dec 22, 2024 Wednesday Dec 25, 2024 Adult: USD$ 795 Student: USD$ 760
• Monday Dec 23, 2024 Thursday Dec 26, 2024 Adult: USD$ 795 Student: USD$ 760
• Tuesday Dec 24, 2024 Friday Dec 27, 2024 Adult: USD$ 795 Student: USD$ 760
• Wednesday Dec 25, 2024 Saturday Dec 28, 2024 Adult: USD$ 795 Student: USD$ 760
• Thursday Dec 26, 2024 Sunday Dec 29, 2024 Adult: USD$ 795 Student: USD$ 760
• Friday Dec 27, 2024 Monday Dec 30, 2024 Adult: USD$ 795 Student: USD$ 760
• Saturday Dec 28, 2024 Tuesday Dec 31, 2024 Adult: USD$ 795 Student: USD$ 760
• Sunday Dec 29, 2024 Wednesday Jan 01, 2025 Adult: USD$ 795 Student: USD$ 760
• Monday Dec 30, 2024 Thursday Jan 02, 2025 Adult: USD$ 795 Student: USD$ 760
• Tuesday Dec 31, 2024 Friday Jan 03, 2025 Adult: USD$ 795 Student: USD$ 760

Inca Trail Trek Daily Videos: See What Each Day Is Like!

The Alpaca Difference

Alpaca Expeditions is a 100% peruvian, indigenous owned company. Started by Raul Ccolque, a former porter and tour guide, Alpaca Expeditions separates ourselves by our dedication to both our customer and our team. We work very hard to make sure that all our clients needs are taken care of throughout the tour with us. At the same time, we never forget about our brothers and sisters working tirelessly for us to make all of this possible. Responsible and sustainable tourism that gives as much to our community as to our clients.

Camping Equipment

Personal Porters of 7 kg Included

Private Toilet Tents

Safety on the Trail Satellite Phones

The Best Trekking Food in Peru!

Meet the ae trekking team.

Everyone on the Alpaca Team is from Cusco region, living the traditions and history they share with you while on one of our tours. Our guides are all graduates of university studying tourism, history and english. Our chefs are trained every February by a professional cooking team learning new meals, adding varieties of entrees for all types of eating. And all our porters are from HUARQUI, HUACAHUASI, PATACANCHA, QUISWARANI, CANCHACANCHA, QUEYUPAY, UMACHURCO and CCACCACCOLLO villages, very often working this job on top of maining their farms back at home. Most of our team has been with us for years, as we have the most loyal, hard working, happy employees in Cusco. We know how lucky we are to have the best team trekking and you will immediately fall in love with all the men and women who call Alpaca Expeditions their home.

AE súper porters

Our Porters represent the Peruvian people, both men, and women who are at the heart of our...

Equality Matters

Alpaca Expeditions aims to promote gender equality and empower women, hiring first Peru Wo...

Travelling and trekking along the mountains is one of the best activities in the World. Co...

Trekking along the mountain on your way to conquer Machu Picchu is a once in a lifetime ex...

What do we do for our porters?

Alpaca Expeditions would not be where we are today without these hardworking men and women. We could not imagine a harder job and our team does it smiling. We do our best to thank them for their hard work and loyalty by doing as much as we can to make their lives and their families lives better. All our porters receive all their equipment for free from warm winter hats to proper hiking boots. They sleep in proper tents and are given warm sleeping bags for night. They enjoy the same food we serve our clients and all leftovers are donated to their families. We visit their villages with doctors and dentists, donate school supplies and sports equipment. And our favorite time of the year is when we bring a group of porters and their families to Machu Picchu to visit the ruins for the first time.

Our Porters represent the Peruvian people, both men, and women who are at the heart of our company. It is not possible to ...

Alpaca Expeditions aims to promote gender equality and empower women, hiring first Peru Women as Porters opening the door ...

Free Medical Assistance to Porters

In 2019, we hired our first Alpaca Expeditions Medical Doctor to help tend to our guides, drivers, chefs…

Our Porter’s bus

We treat our porters with the same dignity and respect as we do our clients. Just as our clients enjoy our…

Our Porter’s House

As we mentioned above, our Porters like many Peruvian people come from distant villages to work our treks…

Tents and Sleeping bags

Again, this is something unique that Alpaca Expeditions provides, and sad others are not doing. We supply…

Proper Equipment for our Porters

Every porter of ours receives proper equipment. That includes moisture-wicking long/short sleeve shirts…

Nutritious Meals for our Porters

A general comment from trekkers on an Alpaca Expeditions tour is that we serve too much food. Well…

Videos of our Porters

Extra information

Alpaca Expeditions is always ready to make your trip safe and as easy as possible for you. Because these trips are a bit more complicated than your typical tour, we have put together some notes on logistics, storage, and even recommendations on where to stay in Cusco. And of course our team is ready to answer any other question, as we promise to be your partner from the moment you first contact us to our last goodbye in Cusco.

Sustainable Tourism

Leave your bags with us

Trek Packing List

Similar inca trail tours that you may like.

Sacred Valley & Classic Inca Trail to Machu Picchu 7D/6N

This is the ultimate package meticulously crafted to offer one of the most exceptional experiences when visiting Cusco and Machu Picchu. Exploring the

Salkantay Trek Peru – 6D/5N

In just 6 days, you’ll have the incredible opportunity to explore two amazing tourist attractions that seamlessly combine culture and nature. Th

Inca Trail Hike 4D/3N & Rainbow Mountain + Red Valley 1 Day

Trip Overview Tour Type: Hiking, camping, adventure, history, culture. Total Distance: 50KM/31 Miles. Good For: Those who enjoy hiking and have a mode

Inca Trail Hike 2D/1N & Rainbow Mountain + Red Valley 1 Day

Trip Overview Tour Type: Trekking/Hiking, cultural, adventurous Good For: Those in moderate shape, families. Difficulty: Moderate. It’s not a te

Sacred Valley Tour 1 Day & Inca Trail 2D/1N & Rainbow Mountain + Red Valley 1 Day

Trip Overview Tour Location: Sacred Valley, Inca Trail, Rainbow Mountain, Red Valley. Tour Type: Trekking/Hiking, cultural, adventurous Good For: Thos

Sacred Valley Tour 1 Day & Inca Trail Hike 2D/1N

Trip Overview Tour Location: Sacred Valley, Inca Trail. Tour Type: Trekking/Hiking, cultural, adventurous Good For: Those in moderate shape, families.

Alpaca Expeditions Recognitions

Iso (international organization for standardization).

In the pursuit to stand out from the rest, Alpaca Expeditions has obtained four ISOs plus our carbon footprint certificate to date. These achievements result from our efforts to implement the internationally-recognized integrated management system. They also represent our commitment to all of our clients and staff of operating sustainability and responsibility in every way possible.

World Travel Awards

Alpaca Expeditions is internationally recognized as a leading tourism company in Peru. As proof, we have been awarded the World Travel Award for Peru´s Best Tour Operator 2021 for the second time.

TRIPADVISOR RECOGNITIONS

Our goal at Alpaca Expeditions is to create the best experience for all of our clients. We create journeys that are to be remembered for a lifetime. Journeys you can be proud of and can share with everybody around you.

As Featured In

Hotel to Hotel service

Regarding the transportation provided by Alpaca Expeditions, we are committed to delivering a quality service. We strive to ensure that passengers feel supported throughout their journey. To achieve this, we coordinate closely with our guides and representatives to ensure timely pick-up at the start of their tours. Additionally, we have representatives responsible for escorting our passengers to their hotels at the conclusion of any tour.

Our drivers are not only trained in customer service but also come properly uniformed, and many are fluent in English.

Typically, all transportation types are included in each of our services. For instance, if you have booked a trekking tour, we will pick you up early, typically between 4 AM and 5 AM. When visiting Cusco, it's important to note that traffic here is generally moderate. However, there are peak traffic times, such as between 7 AM and 8 AM, which coincide with school hours, and in the evening between 6:00 PM and 8:00 PM. Therefore, if you have a flight during these times, it's crucial to be at the airport at least 2 hours in advance. The drivers of Alpaca Expeditions ensure their vehicles are prepared with all necessities before each service. They are acutely aware that delays can lead to missed trains, flights, or other connections. Consequently, they are always more than punctual, arriving at least 10 minutes before the scheduled time for any service, understanding the responsibility they carry in executing these tasks.

Personal Porter of 7KG

Remember that Alpaca Expeditions offers an extra 7 kg allowance for your personal belongings on any of our tours. We include a personal porter who is responsible for carrying your duffel bag without any additional fee. You will not have access to your duffel bag until you reach your evening campsite. The bag should not exceed 7 kg, which includes 4 kg for clothes and 3 kg for your sleeping bag and sleeping mat.

Each Alpaca Expeditions porter is paid directly after each trek, allowing them to return home more quickly. They receive better wages than our competitors, health insurance, and all their equipment free of charge, including hiking boots, pants, jerseys, fleeces, jackets, hats, flashlights, sleeping bags, and high-quality food. We ensure each of our porters has a comfortable bed in a pleasant room to sleep in before and after each trek. We also visit the communities they live in, providing toothpaste, toothbrushes, soap, and other necessary supplies to their families, along with books for their children.

This is just the beginning for us, and we are always looking for ways to do more. While the government allows each porter to carry up to 25 kg, we limit this to 20 kg to prioritize their health and safety. Each porter carries up to 15 kg of company equipment and 5 kg of personal items. This is why it is crucial to keep your personal duffel bag weight under our 7 kg limit. You might see other companies allowing their porters to carry more than the allotted weight, but at Alpaca Expeditions, we strictly adhere to these limits to ensure our porters' well-being.

Clases de Cocina

Alpaca Expeditions offers its passengers the chance to experience local cooking. We aim to immerse trekkers in Inca life by walking them through the original Inca paths and teaching them about Inca culture. Food is a significant part of Inca life, making it a special element in any tour or trek with Alpaca Expeditions.

In 2022, Alpaca Expeditions introduced a cooking class as part of each of our treks, conducted by our amazing trekking chefs and interpreted by our guides.

We will transform your dining tent into a makeshift kitchen, providing all the necessary supplies to prepare a Peruvian specialty. Your chef will guide you step by step through the process of making a traditional Peruvian meal, such as Lomo Saltado, and share some essential mountain cooking tips.

Peru is recognized as a top culinary destination, largely thanks to the popularity of our renowned beef dish, Lomo Saltado. This is most often the meal you will learn to cook, but there is also the opportunity to learn how to prepare other dishes like traditional Peruvian ceviche or even our signature drink, the pisco sour.

Cooking Class on the Inca Trail: These classes are voluntary and designed to be a fun, educational experience. Our clients consistently marvel at the amazing ability of our chefs to create culinary magic on a mountaintop. As you learn to prepare and cook Peruvian specialties, you will also see firsthand how such elaborate meals can be created on a small campsite stove.

Enjoy a cooking class in the mountains and be sure to take plenty of photos, just in case your friends won't believe your incredible experience.

Satellite Phones

The best way to hike in the mountains of Peru is to completely disconnect from technology, especially the internet and cell phones. The most impressive and exciting aspect is the opportunity to experience the true and wonderful nature that we often miss when we are at home, watching TV or absorbed in our cell phones during our leisure time. The feeling of being disconnected from work and the daily routine left at home is incredible.

However, this remoteness means limited access to emergency resources. That's why Alpaca Expeditions has invested in satellite phones for every trek.

We are prepared to assist you in case of any emergency, particularly health-related issues. For this reason, Alpaca Expeditions has invested in satellite phones, as they are one of the most crucial tools for any operator trekking in remote areas where telephone or television signals are absent. This means that every guide on our treks will be equipped with a fully charged satellite phone as well as radios. While these are primarily for emergencies, we allow our clients to use them at any time.

We ask that you cover the cost, which is $2.50 per minute. This fee can be paid in cash at our office or via PayPal once you have completed the trek.

Being just a phone call away from any doctor, hospital, or friend helps everyone feel assured of their safety. Radios, which all our guides carry, have limited reach, so Alpaca Expeditions includes satellite phones to ensure that we can connect no matter where we are on the mountain.

Portable private toilet

We understand that our clients will need restroom facilities at various times and locations during their journey. Along the Inca Trail, there are restrooms available, particularly those belonging to the communities near the trail. Alpaca Expeditions provides portable toilets to enhance this service, which will be set up at each meal site or campsite.

As with any mountain trip where we are exposed to nature, it is possible to use natural areas as restrooms. However, it is crucial to be mindful of the waste we generate, such as toilet paper or wet wipes used for cleaning. These should be carried with us and not discarded on the ground or left along the trail. Remember, the Inca Trail is a protected area overseen by a government institution. In places where garbage bins are unavailable, particularly at our camps, we provide special plastic bags for waste. Our porter team will be responsible for carrying out our waste.

Please be aware that although there are designated bathrooms for men and women, in practice, both genders often use the same facilities. Functionally, there is no significant difference between men's and women's bathrooms. Therefore, it is common for people of all genders to use whichever bathroom is available.