Inca Trail to Machu Picchu

Itinerary

Duration & Itinerary at a Glance

• Day 1: Cusco → Km 82; trek through Sacred Valley to Llactapata; camp at Wayllabamba.

• Day 2: Climb the challenging Dead Woman’s Pass (Warmiwañusca), descend to Pacaymayo & visit Runkurakay.

• Day 3: Explore Phuyupatamarca, Intipata, and Wiñay Wayna; camp near Wiñay Wayna ruins.

• Day 4: Hike to Sun Gate at dawn; a guided tour of Machu Picchu with optional mountain hikes.

Detailed Itinerary

DAY 1 CUSCO / KM 82 / WAYLLABAMBA (12 km)

The first day of the trek is relatively easy and serves as training for the following days. We pick you up from your hotel at around 5:30 am. We travel passing through many picturesque villages such as Chinchero, Urubamba and Ollantaytambo in the sacred Valley of the Incas where we stop for about 30 minutes to buy some goods such as walking sticks, rain ponchos, or to have breakfast. Then we continue down river up to km. 82 (trailhead).

After taking the first group pictures we cross the Vilcanota River and follow the trail to the right. After passing through small farms, you will see the Inca fort of Willkaraccay before reaching the mouth of the Cusichaca River (Happy Legs River). When the Incas conquered the area, they built a fortress here as the site commanded an excellent view across the Urubamba Valley, and controlled the entrance to the Cusichaca valley. From this trail, there are great views of the Urubamba mountain range and the snow-capped peak of Veronica (5750 m). There is also a great view over the extensive Inca ruins of Llactapata or Patallacta, which means “Upper Town” in Quechua and was first discovered by Hiram Bingham in 1911. It was used primarily as an agricultural station to supply the inhabitants of Machu Picchu with maize, which was the staple crop of the Incas. The settlement is comprised of over one hundred buildings, houses for the workers and soldiers, and five baths.

For a further 7 km, the trail follows the left bank of the river up to the small village of Wayllabamba (3,000 m). The name in Quechua means “the place of the morning dew”. It is here we spend the night. This is the last inhabited town on the way to Machupicchu.

Walking Distance: 12 km
Campsite Elevation: 3,000 meters

DAY 2 WAYLLABAMBA / PACAYAMYU (11 km)

On the second day, you climb up from Wayllabamba following the left bank of the Llulluchayoc river for about one hour. This will bring us to Tres Piedras (three stones) and a small bridge over the Huayruro River. There is a small campsite here, which is sometimes used on day one if the group is making good progress. The stream is named after the Huayruro, an ornamental tree. Its seeds are red and black. Many of the porters from the Ollantaytambo district are also known as Huayruros because of their traditional red and black ponchos. A little further on, we enter a beautiful cloud forest.

After a two-hour trek through steep woods and increasingly spectacular terrain, we arrive above the treeline at a meadow known as Llulluchapampa (3,800m). It is another 1 ½ hours climb to the first and highest point of the trail (Abra de Warmiwañusqa or Dead Woman’s pass) at 4,200m.

During this part of the trail, hikers are exposed to the Andean elements: first the scorching sun and then, closer to the pass, the freezing winds. Once at the top, trekkers can celebrate having completed the most difficult section of the trail. The descent from the pass is steep although not difficult. It follows the trail on the left side of the valley to the valley floor to the second campsite at Pacaymayo (3,600m).

Walking Distance: 11 km
Campsite Elevation: 3,600 meters

DAY 3 PACAYMAYO TO WIÑAYWAYNA (17 km)

From Pacaymayo, it takes about an hour to climb up to the ruins of Runkuracay. These small, circular ruins occupy a commanding position overlooking the Pacaymayo Valley below. Another 45 minutes of hiking will bring us to the top of the second pass, Abra de Runcuracay (3,900m). The descent down the steps is steep, so take care especially when it is wet.

After about one hour from the second pass, we arrive at Sayacmarca by climbing a superbly designed stone staircase. The name Sayacmarca means “Inaccessible Town”, and describes the position of the ruins perfectly, as they are protected on three sides by sheer cliffs. You will have to backtrack a little to rejoin the trail as it passes Conchamarca, a small Inca dwelling situated in the shadows of Sayacmarca. This was probably used as a tambo for weary travelers on their way to Machu Picchu.

Then, the path descends into a magnificent cloud forest full of orchids, hanging mosses, tree ferns and flowers, passing through an impressive Inca tunnel, carved into the rock. The trail climbs up to the third pass (3,700m). The view from the pass offers excellent views of several snow-capped peaks including Salkantay (6,271m) and Veronica (5,750 m). A few minutes after the pass is Phuyupatamarca, the most impressive of the Inca ruins so far. The meaning of these ruins is “City inside the Cloud”, which were probably used for the ritual worship of water.

After about an hour of walking through cloud forest, we may be able to see the thin roof of the trekkers hostal at Wiñaywayna. It will probably take another two hours until we arrive. Wiñaywuayna is the last official campsite before Machu Picchu.

A short trail leaves from the Southern end of the hostal to the ruins of Wiñaywayna. The name in Quechua means “Forever Young”, and is named after the variety of pink orchids, which grow here. The ruins are comprised of magnificent agricultural terraces set in an impressive location. There are also many buildings of good quality stonework and a sequence of 10 baths, which suggests that the site was probably a religious center associated with the worship of water. The cleansing ritual may have taken place here for pilgrims on the final leg of the trail to Machupicchu.

Walking Distance: 17 km
Campsite Elevation: 2,700 meters

DAY 4 WIÑAY WAYNA TO MACHU PICCHU ( 5 km) – CUSCO

We wake up early at 4:00 am. After breakfast, we set off on the trail to see the first rays of the sun reach Machu Picchu (at around 7:00 am). The trail goes around the mountain side, and drops into a cloud forest before coming to an almost vertical flight of 50 steps leading up to the final pass at Intipunku (Sun Gate). It is another 30 minutes walk down to Machu Picchu itself. We arrive at the Watchman’s Hut from where you’ll be able to appreciate the ruins in all their glory. This is the classic postcard viewpoint.

Then, we descend to the main entrance to leave our backpacks in a secure deposit. We then re-enter the ruins for a tour of the major sections of the ruins. The tour takes about 3 hours, after which you have some free time to explore the ruins independently.

If you have any energy left, there is enough time to climb Huayna Picchu, which is the steep mountain you see dominating the background of the ruins, the mountaintop offers superb views of the ruins. After exploring by yourself we take the bus down to Aguas Calientes for lunch. The guide will tell you the time and location to meet up in Aguas Calientes so you can receive your train tickets back to Cusco.

After enjoying the lunch, you may want to relax in the hot springs. Then we take the train back to Cusco.

Walking Distance: 5 km
Machupicchu Elevation: 2,400 meters

Tour Package Details

Inclusions:

• Private Transportation: Our vans are brand new, fully authorized for tourist use, and equipped with all the necessary safety features, including a first aid kit and an oxygen tank.
• English-speaking tour guide: Our tour guides bring over fifteen years of experience, specializing in adventure, culture, history and flora and fauna of this region. Their extensive knowledge ensures that every feature of the journey is carefully planned, providing travelers with a deeply enriching experience. Driven by their passion and love for their work, they are dedicated to sharing the beauty and history of this amazing places.
• First Aid Kit: Our tour guides are always equipped with a first aid kit to address any potential emergencies that may arise during the trip. This includes treatments for altitude sickness, diarrhea, cuts, and other minor ailments, ensuring prompt and appropriate care for all participants.
• Oxygen Tank: Our tour guides carry a metal oxygen tank at all times. This precaution ensures the safety and comfort of our visitors, providing immediate assistance if needed.
• Hotel Pickup and Drop-off: We pick you up from your hotel reception and at the end of this tour we drop you off at your hotel.
• Briefing: One day prior to your trip, the guide will meet you at the hotel to give you detailed information and answer any questions you may have.
• Customer Service: We offer you an emergency phone number available 24 hours a day to facilitate seamless communication with the Inka Expeditions team.
• Inca Trail & Machu Picchu entrance tickets
• High-quality camping equipment: 4-people tents used just for 2 persons, roll mattress, cooking equipment, dining tent, kitchen tent, chairs and tables.
• An experienced local chef
• Meals (3b/3l/3d): Food includes: pancakes, omelets, soups, fresh fruit, avocado, pasta, chicken, fish, meat, rice, all rich in carbohydrates and suitable for trekking (there is a vegetarian option).
• Drinking water for you to fill up your bottle
• Hot drinks
• Hot water available for washing
• Porters: To carry the camping equipment, food and cooking equipment.
• Return Train Tickets: From Aguas Calientes back to Cusco.

Exclusions:

• Breakfast (first day): Some hotels offer an early morning breakfast service. If not, we can stop at the town of Ollantaytambo on the way to the trailhead, where you can have the opportunity to have breakfast.
• Extra porter: They can be requested in our office (US$ 100 for the full trek).
• Lunch in aguas Calientes (last day)
• Sleeping bag: It can be requested in our office (US$ 25 for the full trek).
• Inflatable mattress: It can be requested in our office (US$ 25 for the full trek).
• Walking sticks: They can be requested in our office (US$ 20 for the full trek).
• Flight tickets
• Airport taxes
• Tips (optional)
• Travel insurance
• Personal expenses (clothing and laundry).

Trek Options

Personal porter.- can be hired to help carry your personal items such as sleeping bag, mattress (we will provide you with this), complete change of clothes, etc. however the porter will not walk at your side during the trek so you will still need to bring a day pack to carry essential items such as water, snacks, camera, rain poncho, etc. If you hire an extra porter we will give you a big sack for the porter. This will be for US$ 100:00 for the whole trek

(1) Vegetarian Meals.- We can provide vegetarian meals or special diets with no extra cost. Just let us know at least 2 days prior to trek departure.
(2) Sleeping bag hire.-We have sleeping bags in our office for rent US$25:00

(3) walking stick .- we have walking sticks in the office for rent US$20:00

Optional extras not included (need to book in advance)

• Machu Picchu Mountain climbing: USD 75.00 (Need to book in advance)
• Huayna Picchu Mountain climbing: USD 75.00 (Need to book in advance)
• Vistadome/Panoramic 360° Train Aguas Calientes – Ollantaymbo: USD75.00 (Need to book in advance)
• Extra Night in Aguas Calientes: Depends on the type of hotel desired (Need to book in advance).

What to bring:

• Backpack to carry personal items like snacks and water.
• Sleeping bag (you can rent one in our office).
• Warm clothes and fleece
• Rain jacket and rain poncho
• Spare clothes
• Hiking boots and sandals
• Trousers and shorts
• Wool socks, wool hat and gloves
• Sun hat
• Flashlight and extra batteries
• Sunglasses
• Water bottle and purification tablets.
• Sunscreen
• Insect repellent
• Toiletries
• Bathing suit
• Personal medical kit
• Original passport

DEPARTURE: From March to January depending on your request. (Note: The Inca Trail is closed throughout the month of February each year). 

Discounts:

Students: US$ 35 (with valid ISIC cards under 25 years old)
Teenagers: US$ 35 (under 15 )

PRICE 2026

PRIVATE SERVICE:

This is a private tour organized exclusively for you and your family. It includes private transportation and a professional tour guide to provide you with the best experience and a personal touch.

IMPORTANT: Price is based on a double room occupancy (two people per tent).

An additional USD 35.00 will be charged for a single room if there’s no one else to share a double room with or if you are travelling alone.

Discounts:

Students US$ 35 with valid ISIC card (under 25 years old)
Teenagers US$ 35 (under 15 years old)

Booking Information

Choose in the Calendar the date of when you would like to start this Tour -select the month, year and the day, (Starting Date). Fill in your details as requested, and details of the people traveling with you, once you have finished and sent us your reservation, you are registered to pay a booking deposit of US$ 300 + 6% through Paypal. Once we receive your payment, we will confirm the tour in your email and send you the rest of the details.

Booking deposite required – Online payments.

You must pay a booking deposit of US$ 400+6% per person through Paypal.

• US$75 extra per person to climb Wayna Picchu mountain or Machu Picchu mountain.
  You have to confirm in advance if you want to climb Wayna Picchu (the 45 minute climb ) or Machu Picchu mountain as they need to be booked well in advance,  there are 2 time sessions: 07 – 08 am or 10 –11 am

FINAL PAYMENT: The remaining balance of your tour must be paid 2 months in advance through Paypal.

Why Choose this Inca Trail trek to Machu Picchu?

This trek is the perfect length to experience the spiritual and scenic magic of the Inca Trail—without feeling rushed. Only a limited number of permits are issued daily, ensuring a more personal and protected experience

Over 400 species of orchids have been counted in the Machu Picchu historical sanctuary, as well as numerous rare birds, animals, reptiles, including several species considered to be in danger of extinction.

During the days of hiking (approximately 8 hours or 12km a day), you will be looked after by our team. This includes a professional bilingual tour guide, an excellent cook, and Quechua porters. You will be staying in well-maintained campsites with flushing toilets.

You will get your first glimpse of the marvelous and mysterious Machu Picchu from the Sun Gate. You will have enough free time to appreciate these amazing sights and to relax in the hot springs before you take the train back to Cusco.

In order to complete the Inca Trail, you will need to have a reasonable level of fitness – age shouldn’t be a barrier. Our oldest trekker was 76 years old. The most important thing is to be well acclimatized to the altitude, as the maximum height above sea level along the way is 4200m. Therefore we recommend anyone who comes from the coast to spend at least 2 or 3 days in Cusco before attempting this trek. This period is the ideal opportunity to visit the city of Cusco, the nearby ruins of Sacsayhuaman, and the beautiful Sacred Valley of the Incas.

Terms and Conditions

1. You must inform us of any medical problems or allergies. You need to be in good physical health and if your health is questionable, then you should consult a doctor. If you are over the age of 70, then you will need to present us with a current medical certificate as Inca trail goes to 4200 masl (we recommend to be in Cusco 2 or 3 days in advance to acclimatize or to get used to the altitude).

2. You must tell to your guide if you wish to leave the group or the camping area for independent walks. If you are having any problems with the service you have to inform the tour guide in that moment so he can solve any problems as soon as possible.

3. If you suffer from vertigo, we recommend not climbing Huayna Picchu. Please indicate “NO” in the reservation form and mention this in the comments section.
If you wish to hike Machu Picchu Mountain or Huayna Picchu Mountain, reservations must be made 4 to 5 months in advance, as permits are limited and often sell out. These hikes are considered optional alternative routes and are subject to availability.

4. You must carry your original passport and a valid ISIC card (if applicable) while on the trail.
Failure to present the original passport corresponding to the details on your permit will result in the annulment of your permit and denial of entry to the trail.
If, for any reason, you obtain a new passport after your permits have been purchased, you must bring your old passport with you. If this is not possible, you must notify us in writing and provide scanned copies of both your old and new passports so that we may submit the required official documentation to the relevant authorities to avoid any issues.
An administrative fee of US$15.00 applies for processing this formal change.

5. The US$35 student discount is regulated by the park authorities, not by our company. Student cards are validated exclusively by park control and are accepted only if a clear scanned copy of a valid student card is submitted at the time of booking along with the deposit and has been confirmed.
Youth Travel Cards and International Teacher Cards are not accepted by park authorities.

6. This trek includes up to 8 kg per passenger carried by a porter. We provide a duffle bag for your sleeping bag, personal clothing, and mattress.

7. Accommodation in Aguas Calientes is provided in a 3-star hotel. Alternative accommodation options may be arranged upon request. Upgrade options and corresponding supplemental costs, based on double occupancy, are detailed in the Recommendations section.
All accommodation upgrade requests must be made at the time of booking.

8. If you are unable to participate in the trek, we can arrange an alternative tour to Machu Picchu, allowing you to join your group and make use of your existing train tickets and entrance permits.
This alternative itinerary includes: train to Aguas Calientes, overnight accommodation, bus to Machu Picchu, guided visit, lunch in Aguas Calientes, and return train to Cusco.

9. Date changes are permitted only if the group size remains above the minimum required and if train tickets and Machu Picchu entrance tickets have not yet been finalized. A US$25.00 change fee applies.
If train tickets have already been finalized, any date change will incur an additional fee, as PeruRail also charges for modifications. In this case, an administrative fee of US$20.00 per ticket applies.
In some situations, a date change may only be possible by upgrading to a higher-class train carriage; any fare difference must be paid additionally.

10. If you become ill or injured on the trail and are unable to continue, a porter and mule will be provided to escort you to the nearest location with emergency assistance facilities.
Helicopter evacuations and medical expenses are the responsibility of the passenger.
If you are unable to complete the trek due to illness, we will assist you in rejoining your group in Machu Picchu to continue the tour from that point.
No refund will be issued; however, we will provide a medical certification document that may be submitted to your travel insurance provider.

11. Our company takes all reasonable care in providing services to minimize the risk of accidents, illness, or loss of personal property and employs suitably qualified staff. We accept responsibility for the actions of our employees.
However, we cannot be held responsible for unavoidable events, improper actions by clients, or acts of third parties.
Clients are solely responsible for their personal belongings and rented equipment.

12. Our travel agency is not responsible for additional costs resulting from adverse weather conditions, natural disasters, strikes, accidents, illness, injury, or loss of personal items.
Clients are responsible for carrying adequate travel insurance to cover such events.
We reserve the right to modify or cancel the program due to any unforeseen circumstances described above.

Cancellation penalties

• A.- Cancellation of the tour once you have paid a deposit and received a confirmation incurs in the loss of the booking deposit. (US$ 400.00) per person. Non-refundable booking deposit.
• B.- Cancellation of tour within 45 days to 31 days before departure incurs a loss of 70% of total tour cost…
• C.- Cancellation of tour within 30 days to 8 days before departure incurs a loss of 80% of total tour cost…
• D.- Cancellation of tour within 7 days – 48 hours of departure incurs a loss of 90% of total tour cost…
• E.- Cancellation of tour within 48 hours of departure incurs a loss of total tour cost…

Why Choose This Trekking With Inka Expeditions?

With Inka Expeditions, your trekking through the Inca trail to Machupicchu will be an unforgettable experience led by an expert local tour guide who will share all his knowledge of this Inca sites and also about the flora and fauna of this region. Our groups have a maximum 10 people for personalized attentions, with professional tour guides trained in first aid.

Frequently Asked Questions about the Inca Trail to Machupicchu:

1.-How do I prepare for the altitude sickness on this trekking?

The Inca Trail to Machupicchu reaches 4200m (13776ft) so it is recommended to acclimatize for 2 or 3 days in Cusco City before this tour. Drink plenty of water and avoid alcohol.

2.-How difficult is this Inca Trail to Machupicchu?

This trekking to Machupicchu is considered moderately difficult, so hiking boots are required.

3.-Is it safe to travel to this Inca Trail to Machupicchu during the wet season?

Yes, it is safe but during the wet season (November to March) the trail can be slippery. It is recommended to bring waterproof hiking boots and rain poncho. The dry season (April to october) is ideal for this trek because we have clear views but the weather is always unpredictable in the Andes.