CLASSIC INCA TRAIL TO MACHU PICCHU: 4 DAYS

WHAT'S INCLUDED:

• Permit to hike the Inca Trail and entrance ticket to Machu Picchu: These permits and entry tickets are required for all travelers, and they are included in the price of this excursion.
• High quality service: Our Peruvian guides, Andean chefs, professional drivers, and campsite hosts all have extensive experience in their occupations to ensure your health, safety, and comfort. It is extremely important for us that we have you, our guest, in good hands.
• Professional guide in English and Spanish: Our Peruvian-owned company hires local, educated, and experienced guides to facilitate our tours. We have a true passion for our job, our culture, and our history, and we are delighted to share it with you. 
• Meals from our Chef, Boiled Water, Tea, and Snacks: 3 breakfasts, 3 lunches, and 3 dinners are included in this trek. We also provide boiled water (so you will be able to fill your own water bottles), coca tea in the mornings to wake up, tea every afternoon before dinner, and daily snacks along the way.
• Briefing prior to our departure from Cusco: We will meet with you in person before the trek commences to confirm your preparedness and answer any last‐minute questions.
• All transportation, from the moment when we pick you up from your stay in Cusco to when we drop you off there again at the end. This includes:
• Private pick-up from your Cusco stay to the start of the Inca Trail
• Bus ticket from Machu Picchu to Aguas Calientes
• Train ticket from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo (Inca Rail Voyager Service)
• Bus ticket from Ollantaytambo back to your stay in Cusco

WHAT'S NOT INCLUDED:

• Sleeping bag: You can rent one from us for $20.
• Walking sticks: You can rent from us from $20.
• Lunch in Aguas Calientes: Every other meal is included on this trip, including breakfast when we pick you up from Cusco on Day 1!
• Travel insurance: Required for all our travelers.
• Hot Springs Entrance Fee in Aguas Calientes: This is an optional experience.
• An additional porter who can carry up to 14 kg to help with personal belongings and sleeping bags. The 14kg can be shared between two people. Through us, you can pay for an extra porter for $150.
• Tips for Our Staff: Tipping is customary on any excursion to Machu Picchu. Typically, our small groups pool tips and then distribute them together to our porters and cooks near the end of our trek.
• Additional costs or delays beyond our control, including unforeseen weather events, schedule changes due to personal safety, political instability, etc.

• Official Passport (not a copy!): This is a requirement enforced by the Peruvian government. When you book with us, we will ask you to share your passport information with us so that we can purchase your entrance tickets and permits. Please bring the official passport that you shared with us (and not a different one) because your passport number will be printed on your entry ticket. 
• Valid Student Card (if booked as a student)
• Cash: There are no ATMs along the Inca Trail. Bring enough money for tipping, lunch in Aguas Calientes, and bathrooms, drinks, and snacks along the route.
• Personal Medication: You can bring personal medication and over-the-counter medicines, provided that they are in their original packaging, and that the medication is legal in Peru. It is a good idea to bring printed copies of prescriptions for medicines, eyeglasses/contacts, and other medical supplies. 
• First Aid Kit: We recommend that you assemble a small first aid kit that includes handy supplies like bandages, antibiotic ointment, and antiseptic wound cleaner. 
• Sunscreen: We will be trekking across high-altitude terrain: the lowest point of the Inca trail is 2,200 meters (7,218 feet), and the highest is 4,200 meters (13,779 feet). The sun is much stronger where the atmosphere is thin like this, and it is much likelier to experience sun burns. SPF 50+ will offer you the most protection.
• Insect Repellent: Machu Picchu is situated in a tropical mountain forest that is also home to insects. If bugs and mosquitoes love you, consider packing some anti-itch gel or cream in addition to insect repellent.
• Hand Sanitizer and Extra Toilet Paper: While our trek is well-equipped and prioritizes your comfort, we are, after all, camping! Some sections of our route have fewer services, and you will want to clean your hands and body with hand-sanitizer or wipes.
• Personal Hygiene Products, like toothbrush, toothpaste, deodorant, etc.
• Good Trekking Backpack (recommended at least 20L)
• Headlamp: Having a headlamp will help you navigate around our campsites and enjoy your time in your tent after the sun sets. In addition, we will have early starts to most of our days, and a headlamp will ensure you remain sure-footed as we begin trekking under the stars. 
• Portable Charger or Power Bank: There is no electricity or signal on the Inca Trail. In order to keep your phone, watch, and/or camera sufficiently charged to take photos and/or track your route, bring a portable charger or power bank with you.
• Reusable Water Bottle or Camelbak: You can refill your water supply at our campsites and lunch spots — our chefs and guides will provide boiled, purified water for you.
• Comfortable Hiking Boots: Each day, we will walk on the famous stone highway built centuries ago by the Incas. Although this path is robust and stable, some sections are hilly and rugged, and you will need a decent amount of tread on your hiking shoes. A lightweight hiking shoe with good soles/tread will help keep your attention on beauty and history around you, rather than any pain in your feet. 
• Comfortable Camping/Hangout shoes: After hiking, you will want to change into a light-weight, comfortable pair of sandals or “hang-out” shoes. 
• Clothing: You will want to have a few of every item of clothing on your Inca Trail trek, in case things get dirty or wet, and to have several layers to add on or take off to adjust to the changing temperatures. (It also is nice to have options and feel fresh each day!) To be specific, we recommend having: 
• 2-3 sweat-wicking T-shirts
• 2-3 pairs of hiking pants
• 4 sets of underwear
• 4 sets of hiking socks
• 1 fleece jacket
• 1 rain jacket and a pair of rain pants, or durable poncho: Weather can be quite capricious in the Andes, and rain and high winds can occur at any time of the year. No matter the season, waterproof layers are a must.
• 1 warm coat or down jacket: We do recommend bringing another warm coat or down jacket — in addition to your fleece jacket and waterproof layer — because it can get quite cold in the nights and early mornings.
• 1 sun hat to protect yourself from any sunburns or sun poisoning
• 1 wool hat to protect your head and ears from the chilly high-altitude nights
• Waterproof gloves so you can use your hands to take photos, retrieve snacks and supplies, aid other travelers, and give high-fives in any climate. 
• Quick dry towel to dry your hands/face after washing.
• Optional, Bathing Suit: Once we arrive in the town of Aguas Calientes on the final day of our excursion, you have the option to visit the town’s thermal hot springs. This activity is not included in the price of our package, though many of our guests choose to go to relax their muscles after completing this epic trek!

What is included in the 4-Day Inca Trail to Machu Picchu tour package?

Our all-inclusive Inca Trail tour package includes:

• Pickup from your accommodation in Cusco
• Private transportation to the Inca Trail starting point (KM 82)
• All Inca Trail permits and Machu Picchu entrance tickets
• Professional local guides on the Inca Trail
• Porters to carry camping equipment and cooking supplies
• All meals during the trek (breakfast, lunch, dinner, and snacks)
• High-quality camping gear (tents, mats, etc.)
• Train ticket from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo
• Bus from Ollantaytambo to Cusco

How difficult is the Inca Trail hike, and do I need to be in top physical shape?

The Inca Trail 4-day hike is considered moderate to challenging. The most difficult section is the steep ascent to Dead Woman’s Pass (4,216 m / 13,828 ft) on Day 2, due to the altitude and elevation gain.

You don’t need to be an expert hiker, but a reasonable level of fitness and some preparation is recommended. Our guided Inca Trail trekking experience is designed to support hikers of varying levels — and our experienced guides and porters will be with you every step of the way.

Do I need a permit to hike the Inca Trail, and is it included in the tour?

Yes — permits for the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu are mandatory and strictly limited by the Peruvian government. These permits often sell out months in advance, especially in peak season.

When you book with us, your Inca Trail permit is included in the tour price, and we handle all the logistics for you. This makes our tour a stress-free, permit-inclusive Inca Trail package so you can focus on the adventure, not the paperwork.

What kind of meals and accommodations are provided on the Inca Trail trek?

All meals are freshly prepared by our team of experienced cooks and served daily throughout the trek. The only meal that is not included is lunch in Aguas Calientes on Day 4, after exploring the Machu Picchu Site.

Accommodations consist of comfortable camping tents set up each night at scenic campsites along the trail (Wayllabamba, Pacaymayo, and Wiñay Wayna). Each campsite is selected for its natural beauty and proximity to key landmarks on the trail. Tents and mattresses are included, and you can rent a sleeping bag from us for $20.

How far is the Inca Trail and how many hours will we hike each day?

The total distance of the Classic Inca Trail route is approximately 40 kilometers (26 miles) over four days. Daily hiking hours vary depending on terrain and altitude:

• Day 1: ~5–6 hours of hiking (gentle terrain, archaeological sites)
• Day 2: ~6–7 hours (steep ascent to Dead Woman’s Pass)
• Day 3: ~7–8 hours (longest distance, most ruins and scenic views)
• Day 4: ~2–3 hours (early hike to Sun Gate and Machu Picchu entrance)

Our small group Inca Trail tour ensures personalized support and a manageable rhythm for all participants.

Is altitude sickness a concern on the Inca Trail, and how can I prepare?

Yes, altitude sickness can affect some travelers, especially on Day 2 when we reach elevations above 4,200 meters.

To reduce your risk:

• Spend at least 2–3 days acclimatizing in Cusco (3,400m) before your trek
• Stay hydrated, eat light meals, and avoid alcohol before the trek
• Coca tea and altitude medication may help.

When is the best time of year to hike the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu?

The best time to hike the Inca Trail is during the dry season, from April to October, when weather conditions are most favorable for trekking.

• May–August is peak season: dry and cool, but busier. If you plan on visiting Cusco in June, we invite you to go on our Inti Raymi Full Day Tour to celebrate the most important festival of the Incan Empire. More details HERE.
• April, September, and early October offer a nice balance of good weather and fewer crowds

What happens after the tour ends in Machu Picchu? How do we return to Cusco?

After your guided tour of Machu Picchu, we take a bus down to Aguas Calientes, where you’ll have time to enjoy a meal, explore the town, and shop for souvenirs.

Later that afternoon, we’ll board the scenic train to Ollantaytambo, followed by a bus transfer back to Cusco. The entire return journey is included in your Inca Trail tour package, making for a seamless end to your adventure.

Preparing properly for the Classic Inca Trail to Machu Picchu is essential to ensure a safe, enjoyable, and life-changing trekking experience. Below are the key things every traveler should know before beginning the 4 Day Inca Trail to Machu Picchu.

✔️ Book well in advance

Permits for the 4 Day Inca Trail are limited to 500 per day (including staff) and often sell out months in advance—especially from May to September. We recommend booking at least 4 to 6 months ahead.

✔️ Acclimatize in Cusco

Cusco sits at 3,399 m (11,150 ft). Spend at least 2–3 days here before starting the trek to allow your body to adapt to the altitude. This helps prevent altitude sickness and improves overall comfort on the trail.

✔️ Be physically prepared

The Classic Inca Trail to Machu Picchu includes steep ascents, uneven stone steps, and high-altitude trekking. While no technical climbing is required, good physical condition and stamina are important for enjoying the experience.

✔️ Bring original documents

You must present your original passport (not a copy) at checkpoints. If you booked with a student discount, bring your valid ISIC card. Failure to show proper ID can result in denied entry.

✔️ Choose the right season

The dry season (April–October) offers the best trekking conditions. The rainy season (November–March) is more humid and slippery. The trail is closed each February for maintenance.

✔️ Get travel insurance

We strongly recommend purchasing travel insurance that covers high-altitude trekking, medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and delays. The trail is remote, and unforeseen situations can arise.

→ We are a proud Peruvian-owned company, made up of experienced local guides who are deeply passionate about their work and committed to the sustainability of the land, the preservation of history and traditions, and the well-being of the communities along the route.

→ We keep our groups small so that your experience feels personal — you’re never just a number or part of a (llama) herd. Our guides emphasize conversation and connection, ensuring your questions are answered (even the ones you didn’t know you had) and no stone is left unturned — metaphorically, of course.

→ We take care of all permits, logistics, and transportation, so you can truly relax and focus on the trail. Once you’ve booked with us, no planning required: just show up and enjoy the adventure.

Whether you're an adventurer, a history lover, or a nature enthusiast, this small group guided hiking tour to Machu Picchu offers a once-in-a-lifetime experience. You’ll not only witness the breathtaking fusion of nature and culture at the heart of the Andes—you’ll also uncover a deeper connection with yourself.

• Want to experience the Inca trek and Machu Picchu, but short on time? Check out our 2-Day Inca Trail Trek.
• Interested in glaciers and high-altitude mountain passes? Check out our 5-Day Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu.