The 4-day Inca Trail is one of the most iconic and rewarding trekking experiences in the world. It offers an immersive journey through the stunning Andean mountains, ancient Inca ruins, and unique habitats for birds and orchids. The trail leads to the awe-inspiring Machu Picchu and allows you to experience the incredible beauty of the region, learn about Inca history from local guides, and follow in the footsteps of ancient travelers. Explore the Sacred Inca Mountains from a different perspective, feel the power of these pristine landscapes, and experience the cleansing energy of the Warmiwañusca mountain pass.
General Itinerary
04 days
Distance
47 kilometers / 19.5 miles
Duration
4 Days
Day 1: Cusco to Kilometer 82 – Start the Trek
- Early Departure: From Cusco or Sacred Valley at approximately 5:00 AM.
- Km 82 Checkpoint: Start the Inca Trail, passing the customs checkpoint and hiking along the Urubamba River.
- Ruins: Explore terraces, buildings, and ceremonial areas.
- Camp: Arrive at Huayllabamba (approx. 3,000 m) for dinner and overnight stay.
Day 2: Huayllabamba to Pacaymayo – The Toughest Day
- Climb to Warmiwañusca (Dead Woman’s Pass): Reach 4,215 masl after 4–5 hours of steep ascent.
- Lunch: At Pacaymayo (approx. 3,600 m).
- Afternoon: Explore the ruins of Runkurakay and descend into the valley.
- Camp: Overnight at Pacaymayo.
Day 3: Pacaymayo to Wiñay Wayna – Explore More Inca Ruins
- Morning Hike: Climb to Runkurakay Pass (3,800 m).
- Visit Ruins: Runkurakay, Phuyupatamarca (“Cloud Level”), and Wiñay Wayna.
- Camp: Overnight at Wiñay Wayna (2,650 m), early bedtime for Day 4.
Day 4: Wiñay Wayna to Machu Picchu
- Early Start: Hike 1.5 hours to Inti Punku (Sun Gate) for sunrise over Machu Picchu.
- Final Descent: Walk down to the citadel.
- Guided Tour: Explore the Temple of the Sun, Main Plaza, Sacred Plaza, and more.
- End: Return by bus to Aguas Calientes and take the train back to Ollantaytambo or Poroy.
What to Bring
- ORIGINAL PASSPORT
- Comfortable hiking boots
- Warm layers and raingear
- Sun protection: sunscreen, sunglasses, hat
- Refillable water bottle and snacks
- Cash
- Power banks (optional)
- Personal items, medications
Include
- Pre-trek briefing
- Trail permits and Machu Picchu ticket
- Professional camping gear: tents and foam mattress
- Round-trip hotel transportation
- Snacks for the trail
- 02 dinners
- Bus from Machu Picchu to train station
- Duffle bags (7 kg/15.4 lb capacity, waterproof)
- Expedition train tickets
- Professional English-speaking mountain guide
- Professional hiking poles
- First aid kit
- Oxygen tank
Not Included
- Air mattress rental ($25)
- Sleeping bag rental ($25)
- Last lunch and dinner
- Waynapicchu or Machu Picchu Mountain tickets (optional, subject to availability)
- Hotel for Day 04
- Travel insurance
- Tips for the crew
JOEL BEJAR ESPINOZA
Contact a specialist
Recomendations
It was spectacular!! Beautiful views!! I loved it. I recommend them, excellent guide!! If I were to return, I would hire them again.
It was wonderful how they explained everything, the attention they paid, how quickly they resolved any problems. In short, I loved it, and my friends recommend them 100%. Thank you so much, we felt safe at all times.
Excellent service, responsible, super punctual, excellent guides, very knowledgeable and respectful, they know what they're doing and take beautiful photos, 100% recommended
Very great time and appreciated all Mijail did for me and everyone else. Truly made it a magical experience and we felt cared for the whole way