Classic Inca Trail to Machu Picchu
Itinerary
- Early morning pick-up from your hotel in Cusco.
- Drive to Km 82 (the trailhead near Ollantaytambo).
- Begin the trek along the Urubamba River, passing small ruins and scenic farming villages.
- Cross the river and continue to the first campsite at Wayllabamba (3,000 m / 9,842 ft).
- Walking time: ~5–6 hours
- Highlights: Llactapata ruins, views of Veronica Mountain, gentle uphill sections.
- The most challenging day of the hike.
- Begin early and ascend steadily through cloud forest and puna grasslands.
- Reach the highest point of the trek: Warmiwañusca (Dead Woman’s Pass) at 4,215 m (13,828 ft).
- After a break, descend into the valley to camp at Pacaymayo.
- Walking time: ~7–8 hours
- Highlights: Challenging altitude climb, panoramic mountain views, sense of achievement.
- Climb to the second pass and visit the Runkurakay ruins.
- Continue through cloud forest, stopping at Sayacmarca and Phuyupatamarca.
- Descend to Wiñay Wayna, one of the most beautiful and well-preserved ruins before Machu Picchu.
- Camp near Wiñay Wayna.
- Walking time: ~8 hours
- Highlights: Multiple Inca ruins, lush forest trails, birds and orchids.
- Wake up very early for the final stretch.
- Hike under moonlight to reach the Sun Gate (Inti Punku) just in time for sunrise over Machu Picchu.
- Enjoy a guided tour of Machu Picchu (2–3 hours).
- Optionally, climb Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain (must be booked in advance).
- Take the bus down to Aguas Calientes, then board the train and bus back to Cusco.
- Walking time: ~2–3 hours
- Highlights: First views of Machu Picchu at sunrise, guided visit to the citadel, relaxing train ride back.
Information
The Inca Trail stands as South America’s most iconic hike. This legendary 25-mile (40 km) journey begins at kilometer marker 82, near Ollantaytambo in the Sacred Valley. Over four days, you’ll hike through three high-altitude Andean passes, lush cloud forests, and ancient Inca ruins. Along the way, breathtaking scenery unfolds — snow-capped peaks, misty valleys, and meandering rivers.
Each night, you’ll camp beside rivers or in the mountains, waking up to surreal views above the clouds. The path culminates at the Sun Gate, where you’ll witness your first unforgettable sight of Machu Picchu. Hiking the Inca Trail immerses you deeply in the beauty and legacy of Inca civilization.
Before the hike, you’ll explore Cusco — the former Inca capital — discovering bustling markets, delicious local cuisine, and historic ruins. You’ll also visit the Sacred Valley towns of Chinchero, Moray, and Maras.
From km 82, Quechua porters will accompany you, carrying gear along the way. After completing the four-day trek, you’ll spend the night in Aguas Calientes. The next day, you’ll explore Machu Picchu more thoroughly before returning to Cusco by train and bus.
The Inca Trail offers one of the world’s most rewarding trekking experiences. You’ll cross various microclimates and ancient paths, once used by the Incas to connect temples and cities — a true adventure through time and nature.
Include / Not Include
- Pre-trek briefing in Cusco
- Pick-up and transport to trailhead
- Professional English-speaking guide
- Entrance to Machu Picchu & Inca Trail permits
- Porters to carry group gear
- 3 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 3 dinners
- Camping equipment (tents, mats)
- First aid kit and oxygen
- Return train and bus to Cusco
- One night in Aguas Calientes (hotel)
- Sleeping bag (rental available)
- Hiking poles (rental available)
- Travel insurance
- Tips for guides and porters
- Meals not mentioned
- Entry to Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain (optional)
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