Overview
Duration
Type tour
Difficulty
Altitude
Acomodation
Group size
Classic Inca Trail to Machu Picchu
Step into a world of wonder and history on the Classic Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, a 4-day, 3-night journey through breathtaking Andean landscapes, ancient Inca ruins, and mystical trails that tell the story of an extraordinary civilization. This is not just a hike—it’s a once-in-a-lifetime adventure that will leave you speechless and deeply inspired.
Your Day-by-Day Itinerary: A Journey Through Time
Day 1: Begin the Adventure at Km 82
Your journey kicks off at Km 82, where you’ll walk in the footsteps of the Incas through lush valleys teeming with vibrant flora and fauna. Along the way, encounter llamas and alpacas grazing peacefully in the stunning Andean countryside.
Day 2: Conquer Dead Woman’s Pass
Prepare for a thrilling challenge as you ascend to Dead Woman’s Pass, towering at 4,200 meters (13,779 feet). This is the highest point on the trail, offering awe-inspiring panoramic views of the majestic Andes. It’s a test of endurance, but the reward is an unforgettable sense of accomplishment.
Day 3: Explore the Enigmatic Wiñay Wayna
As you approach Machu Picchu, discover Wiñay Wayna, the last Inca settlement on the trail. Its intricate terraces, ceremonial temples, and sacred fountains are a breathtaking testament to Inca engineering and spirituality.
Day 4: Sunrise at Machu Picchu
The culmination of your trek is nothing short of magical. Arrive at Machu Picchu at sunrise, entering through the iconic Sun Gate (Inti Punku). Witness the first rays of sunlight illuminating the ancient city, a moment that will forever be etched in your memory. Explore its legendary structures, like the Temple of the Sun, as you uncover the mysteries of this UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Why the Classic Inca Trail is Unmissable
The Classic Inca Trail is more than a trek—it’s an immersive journey into the heart of the Inca Empire. With every step, you’ll feel the energy of this sacred land, surrounded by towering peaks, serene valleys, and the echoes of a timeless civilization.
Choose Terra Quechua Peru for an Unparalleled Experience
For over 12 years, Terra Quechua Peru has been the trusted name in creating unforgettable adventures. Based in Cusco, we specialize in delivering authentic and sustainable travel experiences.
- Expert Guides & Dedicated Porters: Our professional team ensures your journey is safe, enriching, and enjoyable.
- Delicious Meals & Comfortable Campsites: Refuel with carefully prepared meals and rest in well-equipped campsites.
- Sustainable & Authentic Travel: We prioritize eco-friendly practices and respect for local communities.
Itinerary Classic Inca Trail To Machu Picchu 4 Days / 3 Nights
DAY 1: CUSCO – OLLANTAYTAMBO – PISCACUCHO KM 82 – WAYLLABAMBA
We start our trip along the classic Inca Trail, early in the morning after picking up all our passengers we will go to Ollantaytambo, where those who wish can have breakfast, then we will continue to Km. 82 Piscacucho (2,700 masl.), where it is located the first control, then start the walk to Machu Picchu, after about 2 hours of walking we will arrive at Llaqtapata (2,750 masl.) Archaeological site of Inca construction that will be explained by our guide, after our visit to this interesting place we will have the lunch prepared by our experienced cook and his team which will surely leave you amazed with the food, after lunch we will continue with our walk to our 1st. Camp in Wayllabamba (3,000 masl.). Where after a well-deserved rest we will have lunch and then dinner, in order to spend the night.
1ST DAY
- Walking distance: 8.7 miles/14 km (6-7 hours)
- Campsite altitude: 3300 meters (high) above sea level
- Considered: Moderate day (getting used to the Inca Trail)
- Weather: Warm and windy
DAY 2: WAYLLABAMBA – WARMIWAÑUSCA PASS – PACAYMAYO
Our second day on the classic Inca Trail. In the morning after breakfast we will continue the walk, this time we will begin a slight ascent for 9 km towards the Warmiwañusca pass (4,200 masl), the highest point of the Inca Trail, which is a section with stairs that makes it heavier and hard on the legs, it is recommended to do it slowly at the pace of each one without worrying that the group will abandon us. Once all the members of the group are gathered, we will continue, but this time also descending by stone steps; In this section you will be able to appreciate a variety of flora and you will have views that make this Inca Trail unique, then we will arrive at our 2nd. camp in Pacaymayo (3,600 masl.), we will have dinner and then we will spend the night in that place.
2ND DAY
- Walking distance: 9.94 miles/16 km (7-8 hours)
- Campsite altitude: 3600 meters (high) above sea level (chilly weather)
- Considered: Top day (you will have survived the two highest passes)
- Area: Andes and Cloud Forest
- Weather: Cold and rainy
DAY 3: PACAYMAYO – WIÑAYWAYNA
After breakfast we will continue our classic Inca trail, this section is 15 km. full of vegetation and number of Inca archaeological sites of different functions. The first archaeological site that we will visit will be Runkurakay (3,970 masl.) which is another Inca archaeological complex in the form of towers that has a strategic surveillance site of the east valley, then we continue to Chaquicocha where we will have lunch, then we will continue to Phuyupatamarka (which means place or town above the clouds), on the route we will pass inside a tunnel carved in rock and continue towards Wiñaywayna, another wonderful complex where we will spend the night hours, the route is 6 full of beautiful landscapes, vegetation in Wiñaywayna.
3RD DAY
- Walking distance: 6.2 miles/10km (5 hours)
- Campsite altitude: 2.600 meters (high) above sea level (chilly weather)
- Considered: Easy day – all downhill!
- Area: High Cloud Forest
- Weather: Warm and very humid
DAY 4: WIÑAYWAYNA – INCA CITY OF MACHU PICCHU – CUSCO
Last day on the classic Inca Trail. Earlier than normal after breakfast we will continue the trek towards Machu Picchu, we will go through the last control and continue towards the Inti Punku (Puerta del Sol) and then to Machu Picchu, we will have a majestic panoramic view of the Inca City of Machu Picchu , then they will have their guided visit to the place full of history, together with the guide they will visit the most important and outstanding sites of the sectors of the ancient Inca City (Agricultural and Religious Sector), then they can have free time to take more photos, and explore the archaeological site on its own; then we will return to the town of Aguas Calientes where you can have lunch on your own and finally go to the train station to return to the town of Ollantaytambo and from there by tourist bus to the city of Cusco.
4TH DAY
- Considered: The most exciting and magical day (early wake up 3.30 AM)
- Area: High Cloud and Subtropical Forest
- Weather: Hot and very humid (bring lots of water)
Includes
- Pre-departure briefing
- Pick up at your hotel in the morning and transfer by private transport to km.82 (starting point of the trail)
- Entrance to the Inca Trail and Machu Picchu (days 1-3) + entrance to Machu Picchu (day 4)
- Personal tents: 2 people in each tent with capacity for 4 people, to allow greater comfort and safe storage of
- backpacks. Our tents are 3-season, highly maintained to ensure excellent performance in the field. Kailas or North Faces store
- One inflatable mattress per person
- Dining tent with tables and chairs
kitchen tent - English-speaking professional guide (2 guides for groups of more than 8 people)
- Chef and kitchen equipment.
- Porters (to carry tents, food and cooking equipment)
- Accommodation for all our staff
- Meals (03B, 03L, 03D + daily snack + daily tea service except last day).
- Vegetarian or special menus available at no additional cost
- A textile snack bag per person, to avoid the use of plastic bags that pollute our environment
Filtered boiled water from lunchtime on the first day onwards - Biodegradable personal hand soaps
- Biodegradable dishwashing detergents used by our kitchen staff
- Others: hot water every morning and night for washing / boiled water to fill your water bottle every morning and night, and at lunchtime if requested in good time
- First aid kit including emergency oxygen bottle
- Train ticket from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo (Expedition, Vistadome, upon request)
- Transfer from train station to hotel in Cusco
No Incluye
- breakfast the first day
- Lunch and dinner on the last day: After the guided tour of Machupicchu, you can enjoy free time to continue visiting the ruins and choose to have lunch in Machupicchu or in Aguas Calientes on your own. Arrival in Cusco is estimated after dark, dinner is also on your own.
- Sleeping bag Cost US$ 20 (3 nights)
- Walking sticks Cost US$ 15
- Visit to the hot springs of Aguas Calientes: a relaxed way to end the walk while waiting for the train back to Cusco, just 10 minutes from the town center, the entrance fee is s/ 20.00 (Peruvian soles). Towels can be rented in Aguas Calientes
- Entrance to Huayna Picchu: if you want to climb this mountain, a new entrance fee applies (US$ 80)
Tipping – Keep in mind that our agency staff are well paid, so feel free to tip or not as you wish.
Packing list Classic Inca Trail To Machu Picchu 4 Days / 3 Nights
- A backpack with a change of clothes for the entire period of the trek.
Rain gear (jacket and pants if available) or rain poncho (plastic ponchos can be purchased in Cusco) - Strong footwear, waterproof trekking boots are recommended.
- Sandals or sports shoes for greater comfort in the camp.
- Outerwear, including jacket, fleeces. Thermal clothing is also recommended, especially for sleeping.
- Flashlight/headlamp and batteries
- Camera and batteries (batteries drain faster in cold conditions)
- Hat or cap to protect you from the sun, rain and cold
Sunscreen - After sun cream or moisturizing cream for face and body
- Insect repellent – recommended minimum 20% DEET – no malaria risk reported
- scarves
- Toilet paper
- Snacks: cookies, energy bars, chocolate, raw fruits, muesli, etc. Keep in mind that we do offer a daily morning snack and our food service is very complete and well stocked. This recommendation applies to all customers accustomed to a specific snack, since it may happen that it is not included in our selection
- Water container and water for the first morning. Important Notice: Plastic water bottles are no longer allowed on the Inca Trail. Plastic (ie Nalgene) or metal water containers are recommended.
- Optionally: water sterilizing tablets in case of collecting water from streams or rivers along the route. Otherwise, we provide filtered boiled water, which is safe to drink and has not reported any health issues so far.
- Small towel
- Swimsuit (if you want to go to the hot springs in Aguas Calientes)
- Cash in soles and/or US$
- Original passport
Original international student identity card (in case you have applied for a student discount)
walking sticks or walking sticks (rubber covers are required so as not to damage the Inca Trail)
Prices Classic Inca Trail To Machu Picchu 4 Days / 3 Nights
PRICE INFORMATION: US$740 PER PERSON 2025-2026
Discounts available (these discounts are not cumulative)
Students: US$20.00 (Students require a valid International Student Identity Card. Please note that Youth Travel Cards are not valid)
Teenagers: US$ 20.00 (up to 15 years of age, passport copy is required for all reservations)
Children: US$ 30.00 (up to 7 years of age, passport copy is required for all reservations)
DEPARTURE IN 2025 – 2026
AVAILABILITY OF THE INCA TRAIL
The exact information provided by you will be sent to the government institution in charge of regulating access to the Inca Trail and will be included in the official permit to enter the Inca Trail on the requested date. In case there is any change in the data mentioned above (ie new passport number), please inform the Reservations Department of Terra Quechua Tour Operator by email as soon as possible. The government reserves the right to deny entry to any visitor whose data is not accurate to that of the official permit. Terra Quechua Tour Operator excludes any responsibility for non-entry in case the passenger’s information has changed without prior notice.
Inca Trail permits are available. You can book your trip for this date, 2025 or 2026
February: Also note that the Inca Trail will be closed for general maintenance during the month of February each year. Additionally, closures may occur at various times during the year due to inclement weather or other conditions beyond our control. During these periods, any affected route will carry out the Lares Trek
AIR-CONDITIONED
Cusco’s climate is divided into two distinct seasons: the rainy season, from November to April (the heaviest rainfall generally occurs between January and March); and the dry season, from May to October. The dry season is cooler, so temperatures can drop below 0 degrees at night.
Along the Inca Trail, temperatures range from 15-20ºC during the day if it is sunny, to 05-10ºC during the day if there is no sun, or 0-05ºC at night. In Machupicchu, at a lower altitude, temperatures are usually warmer, although warm clothing is still recommended at night.
Difficulty: Moderate to challenging
Overview
Duration
Type tour
Difficulty
Altitude
Acomodation
Group size
Classic Inca Trail to Machu Picchu
Step into a world of wonder and history on the Classic Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, a 4-day, 3-night journey through breathtaking Andean landscapes, ancient Inca ruins, and mystical trails that tell the story of an extraordinary civilization. This is not just a hike—it’s a once-in-a-lifetime adventure that will leave you speechless and deeply inspired.
Your Day-by-Day Itinerary: A Journey Through Time
Day 1: Begin the Adventure at Km 82
Your journey kicks off at Km 82, where you’ll walk in the footsteps of the Incas through lush valleys teeming with vibrant flora and fauna. Along the way, encounter llamas and alpacas grazing peacefully in the stunning Andean countryside.
Day 2: Conquer Dead Woman’s Pass
Prepare for a thrilling challenge as you ascend to Dead Woman’s Pass, towering at 4,200 meters (13,779 feet). This is the highest point on the trail, offering awe-inspiring panoramic views of the majestic Andes. It’s a test of endurance, but the reward is an unforgettable sense of accomplishment.
Day 3: Explore the Enigmatic Wiñay Wayna
As you approach Machu Picchu, discover Wiñay Wayna, the last Inca settlement on the trail. Its intricate terraces, ceremonial temples, and sacred fountains are a breathtaking testament to Inca engineering and spirituality.
Day 4: Sunrise at Machu Picchu
The culmination of your trek is nothing short of magical. Arrive at Machu Picchu at sunrise, entering through the iconic Sun Gate (Inti Punku). Witness the first rays of sunlight illuminating the ancient city, a moment that will forever be etched in your memory. Explore its legendary structures, like the Temple of the Sun, as you uncover the mysteries of this UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Why the Classic Inca Trail is Unmissable
The Classic Inca Trail is more than a trek—it’s an immersive journey into the heart of the Inca Empire. With every step, you’ll feel the energy of this sacred land, surrounded by towering peaks, serene valleys, and the echoes of a timeless civilization.
Choose Terra Quechua Peru for an Unparalleled Experience
For over 12 years, Terra Quechua Peru has been the trusted name in creating unforgettable adventures. Based in Cusco, we specialize in delivering authentic and sustainable travel experiences.
- Expert Guides & Dedicated Porters: Our professional team ensures your journey is safe, enriching, and enjoyable.
- Delicious Meals & Comfortable Campsites: Refuel with carefully prepared meals and rest in well-equipped campsites.
- Sustainable & Authentic Travel: We prioritize eco-friendly practices and respect for local communities.
DAY 1: CUSCO – OLLANTAYTAMBO – PISCACUCHO KM 82 – WAYLLABAMBA
We start our trip along the classic Inca Trail, early in the morning after picking up all our passengers we will go to Ollantaytambo, where those who wish can have breakfast, then we will continue to Km. 82 Piscacucho (2,700 masl.), where it is located the first control, then start the walk to Machu Picchu, after about 2 hours of walking we will arrive at Llaqtapata (2,750 masl.) Archaeological site of Inca construction that will be explained by our guide, after our visit to this interesting place we will have the lunch prepared by our experienced cook and his team which will surely leave you amazed with the food, after lunch we will continue with our walk to our 1st. Camp in Wayllabamba (3,000 masl.). Where after a well-deserved rest we will have lunch and then dinner, in order to spend the night.
1ST DAY
- Walking distance: 8.7 miles/14 km (6-7 hours)
- Campsite altitude: 3300 meters (high) above sea level
- Considered: Moderate day (getting used to the Inca Trail)
- Weather: Warm and windy
DAY 2: WAYLLABAMBA – WARMIWAÑUSCA PASS – PACAYMAYO
Our second day on the classic Inca Trail. In the morning after breakfast we will continue the walk, this time we will begin a slight ascent for 9 km towards the Warmiwañusca pass (4,200 masl), the highest point of the Inca Trail, which is a section with stairs that makes it heavier and hard on the legs, it is recommended to do it slowly at the pace of each one without worrying that the group will abandon us. Once all the members of the group are gathered, we will continue, but this time also descending by stone steps; In this section you will be able to appreciate a variety of flora and you will have views that make this Inca Trail unique, then we will arrive at our 2nd. camp in Pacaymayo (3,600 masl.), we will have dinner and then we will spend the night in that place.
2ND DAY
- Walking distance: 9.94 miles/16 km (7-8 hours)
- Campsite altitude: 3600 meters (high) above sea level (chilly weather)
- Considered: Top day (you will have survived the two highest passes)
- Area: Andes and Cloud Forest
- Weather: Cold and rainy
DAY 3: PACAYMAYO – WIÑAYWAYNA
After breakfast we will continue our classic Inca trail, this section is 15 km. full of vegetation and number of Inca archaeological sites of different functions. The first archaeological site that we will visit will be Runkurakay (3,970 masl.) which is another Inca archaeological complex in the form of towers that has a strategic surveillance site of the east valley, then we continue to Chaquicocha where we will have lunch, then we will continue to Phuyupatamarka (which means place or town above the clouds), on the route we will pass inside a tunnel carved in rock and continue towards Wiñaywayna, another wonderful complex where we will spend the night hours, the route is 6 full of beautiful landscapes, vegetation in Wiñaywayna.
3RD DAY
- Walking distance: 6.2 miles/10km (5 hours)
- Campsite altitude: 2.600 meters (high) above sea level (chilly weather)
- Considered: Easy day – all downhill!
- Area: High Cloud Forest
- Weather: Warm and very humid
DAY 4: WIÑAYWAYNA – INCA CITY OF MACHU PICCHU – CUSCO
Last day on the classic Inca Trail. Earlier than normal after breakfast we will continue the trek towards Machu Picchu, we will go through the last control and continue towards the Inti Punku (Puerta del Sol) and then to Machu Picchu, we will have a majestic panoramic view of the Inca City of Machu Picchu , then they will have their guided visit to the place full of history, together with the guide they will visit the most important and outstanding sites of the sectors of the ancient Inca City (Agricultural and Religious Sector), then they can have free time to take more photos, and explore the archaeological site on its own; then we will return to the town of Aguas Calientes where you can have lunch on your own and finally go to the train station to return to the town of Ollantaytambo and from there by tourist bus to the city of Cusco.
4TH DAY
- Considered: The most exciting and magical day (early wake up 3.30 AM)
- Area: High Cloud and Subtropical Forest
- Weather: Hot and very humid (bring lots of water)
Includes
- Pre-departure briefing
- Pick up at your hotel in the morning and transfer by private transport to km.82 (starting point of the trail)
- Entrance to the Inca Trail and Machu Picchu (days 1-3) + entrance to Machu Picchu (day 4)
- Personal tents: 2 people in each tent with capacity for 4 people, to allow greater comfort and safe storage of
- backpacks. Our tents are 3-season, highly maintained to ensure excellent performance in the field. Kailas or North Faces store
- One inflatable mattress per person
- Dining tent with tables and chairs
kitchen tent - English-speaking professional guide (2 guides for groups of more than 8 people)
- Chef and kitchen equipment.
- Porters (to carry tents, food and cooking equipment)
- Accommodation for all our staff
- Meals (03B, 03L, 03D + daily snack + daily tea service except last day).
- Vegetarian or special menus available at no additional cost
- A textile snack bag per person, to avoid the use of plastic bags that pollute our environment
Filtered boiled water from lunchtime on the first day onwards - Biodegradable personal hand soaps
- Biodegradable dishwashing detergents used by our kitchen staff
- Others: hot water every morning and night for washing / boiled water to fill your water bottle every morning and night, and at lunchtime if requested in good time
- First aid kit including emergency oxygen bottle
- Train ticket from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo (Expedition, Vistadome, upon request)
- Transfer from train station to hotel in Cusco
- breakfast the first day
- Lunch and dinner on the last day: After the guided tour of Machupicchu, you can enjoy free time to continue visiting the ruins and choose to have lunch in Machupicchu or in Aguas Calientes on your own. Arrival in Cusco is estimated after dark, dinner is also on your own.
- Sleeping bag Cost US$ 20 (3 nights)
- Walking sticks Cost US$ 15
- Visit to the hot springs of Aguas Calientes: a relaxed way to end the walk while waiting for the train back to Cusco, just 10 minutes from the town center, the entrance fee is s/ 20.00 (Peruvian soles). Towels can be rented in Aguas Calientes
- Entrance to Huayna Picchu: if you want to climb this mountain, a new entrance fee applies (US$ 80)
Tipping – Keep in mind that our agency staff are well paid, so feel free to tip or not as you wish.
- A backpack with a change of clothes for the entire period of the trek.
Rain gear (jacket and pants if available) or rain poncho (plastic ponchos can be purchased in Cusco) - Strong footwear, waterproof trekking boots are recommended.
- Sandals or sports shoes for greater comfort in the camp.
- Outerwear, including jacket, fleeces. Thermal clothing is also recommended, especially for sleeping.
- Flashlight/headlamp and batteries
- Camera and batteries (batteries drain faster in cold conditions)
- Hat or cap to protect you from the sun, rain and cold
Sunscreen - After sun cream or moisturizing cream for face and body
- Insect repellent – recommended minimum 20% DEET – no malaria risk reported
- scarves
- Toilet paper
- Snacks: cookies, energy bars, chocolate, raw fruits, muesli, etc. Keep in mind that we do offer a daily morning snack and our food service is very complete and well stocked. This recommendation applies to all customers accustomed to a specific snack, since it may happen that it is not included in our selection
- Water container and water for the first morning. Important Notice: Plastic water bottles are no longer allowed on the Inca Trail. Plastic (ie Nalgene) or metal water containers are recommended.
- Optionally: water sterilizing tablets in case of collecting water from streams or rivers along the route. Otherwise, we provide filtered boiled water, which is safe to drink and has not reported any health issues so far.
- Small towel
- Swimsuit (if you want to go to the hot springs in Aguas Calientes)
- Cash in soles and/or US$
- Original passport
Original international student identity card (in case you have applied for a student discount)
walking sticks or walking sticks (rubber covers are required so as not to damage the Inca Trail)
