How difficult is the Inca Trail?

Moderate to challenging; suitable for trekkers in good physical condition. Daily hikes range between 6–10 hours.

Are permits required?

Yes — the Inca Trail requires limited permits. Booking at least 3–4 months in advance is highly recommended.

Trekking shoes, sleeping bag, warm layers, rain jacket, sunscreen, and reusable water bottle.

Yes — extra porters can be hired to carry your belongings (subject to regulations and availability).

When is the best time to go?

The dry season (April–October) offers the best conditions. The trail is closed in February for maintenance.

Inka Trail to Machu Picchu -

Maximum Altitude
2,400 – 4,215 m a.s.l.
Best Season
April – October
Guide
Professional bilingual trekking guide
Language
English / Spanish
Meeting Point
Hotel (Cusco city center)
Payment Method
Cash, card, or online booking before departure
Destinations
Cusco
Activities
Culture, Trekking
Trip Type
Mountains, Treks
Difficulty
Challenging
Trip Tag
Adventure, Cultural, Nature & Wildlife, Trekking

Overview

Itinerary

Cost

FAQs

Map

🧭 Overview

Follow in the footsteps of the Incas on the legendary Inca Trail to Machu Picchu (4 Days / 3 Nights), one of the most iconic treks in the world.
This unforgettable journey combines ancient history, breathtaking mountain landscapes, and cloud forest ecosystems, culminating in the awe-inspiring sunrise view over Machu Picchu, the Lost City of the Incas.
A perfect adventure for travelers seeking both cultural immersion and natural beauty — fully guided and supported with porters, meals, and camping equipment included.

✨ Highlights

Trek one of the world’s most famous trails
Explore ancient Inca archaeological sites along the route
Experience the sunrise over Machu Picchu from the Sun Gate
Enjoy spectacular Andean and cloud forest scenery
Travel with professional guides, porters, and full support team

🌄 Day 1 :

Cusco to Wayllabamba: The Beginning of the Trail

Early morning pick-up from your hotel and transfer to Km 82 (Piscacucho), the official starting point of the Inca Trail. Meet your porters and guides before beginning your trek along the Urubamba River valley.
Hike through small Andean communities and visit your first archaeological sites, such as Llactapata. After a scenic 11 km walk, reach your first campsite at Wayllabamba (3,000 m).
Enjoy a hearty dinner prepared by your cook team and rest under the stars.

⛰️ Day 2 :

Wayllabamba to Pacaymayo: Challenge of Warmiwañusca

Wake up early for breakfast and begin the steep ascent toward Dead Woman’s Pass (Warmiwañusca, 4,215 m) — the highest point of the trek.
This is the most challenging but also one of the most rewarding sections, offering panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
Descend to the Pacaymayo Valley (3,600 m) to set up camp and enjoy dinner in the crisp Andean air.

🌿 Day 3 :

Pacaymayo to Wiñay Wayna: Inca Ruins and Cloud Forests

Today’s trail is the most beautiful and varied. After breakfast, continue along ancient stone steps through lush cloud forest vegetation, visiting remarkable Inca sites like Runkurakay, Sayacmarca, and Phuyupatamarca.
In the afternoon, descend to your final campsite at Wiñay Wayna (2,650 m), where you’ll enjoy your last evening surrounded by the mystic sounds of the forest.

🌅 Day 4 :

Machu Picchu: Sunrise at the Lost City of the Incas

Wake up before dawn and hike the final stretch of the trail to Inti Punku (Sun Gate), arriving in time to witness the first light over Machu Picchu — an unforgettable moment.
Enter the citadel for a guided tour of Machu Picchu, exploring its temples, terraces, and sacred structures.
After your visit, descend to Aguas Calientes, where you’ll have lunch and take the train back to Cusco, concluding your incredible journey.