Summary
Important Details
- Frequency: Confirmed departures year-round (except February)
- Duration: 4 days / 3 nights
- Start time: Approximately 4:00 a.m.
- Mode: Shared or private service
- Location: Cusco – Machu Picchu
- Difficulty level: High
- Maximum altitude: 4,215 m.a.s.l.
Why Travel with Peru Coyana?
Walk one of the world’s most famous and spiritual trails: the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu. This 4-day hike follows ancient Inca paths through majestic snow-capped peaks, lush cloud forest, tunnels, agricultural terraces, and archaeological sites that bring you closer to the living history of the Tahuantinsuyo.
Peru Coyana will guide you on this transformative and awe-inspiring journey, following the footsteps of ancient pilgrims until you reach the majestic citadel of Machu Picchu through the Sun Gate (Inti Punku), one of the 7 Wonders of the Modern World.
Itinerary Summary
- Day 1: Cusco – Km 82 – Llactapata – Wayllabamba
- Day 2: Wayllabamba – Warmiwañusca – Pacaymayo
- Day 3: Pacaymayo – Runkurakay – Wiñay Wayna
- Day 4: Wiñay Wayna – Inti Punku – Machu Picchu – Aguas Calientes – Cusco
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1: Cusco – Km 82 – Llactapata – Wayllabamba
After hotel pick-up, we travel by bus to Kilometer 82 (Piscacucho), where our hike begins. We enjoy stunning views of the Veronica snow-capped mountain and follow the Vilcanota River to the Llactapata archaeological complex, where we stop for lunch. In the afternoon, we continue toward Wayllabamba (3,000 m.a.s.l.), our first campsite.
Day 2: Wayllabamba – Warmiwañusca – Pacaymayo
This is the most challenging day. We ascend for about 3 hours to the Warmiwañusca Pass (4,215 m.a.s.l.), the highest point of the trail. From here, we enjoy breathtaking views of the Andes’ diverse microclimates. We then descend to Pacaymayo, where we set up camp and have dinner.
Day 3: Pacaymayo – Runkurakay – Sayacmarca – Wiñay Wayna
After breakfast, we hike up to the second pass: Runkurakay (3,850 m.a.s.l.), visiting the archaeological site of the same name. We descend to Sayacmarca and continue to Puyupatamarca, where we have lunch. The journey continues to our final campsite: Wiñay Wayna (“Forever Young”), where we enjoy a guided visit and farewell dinner.
Day 4: Wiñay Wayna – Inti Punku – Machu Picchu – Cusco
Early in the morning, we hike to the Sun Gate (Inti Punku) to witness the sunrise over Machu Picchu. After entering the site, we enjoy a guided tour (approx. 3 hours) through its temples, fountains, plazas, and sacred areas. You’ll have free time afterward and can optionally visit Huayna Picchu (subject to availability). In the afternoon, we take the train back to Cusco. End of our services.
Includes / Not Included
What’s Included?
- Pick-up from your hotel in Cusco
- Transport to Km 82 (trailhead)
- Entrance tickets to the Inca Trail and Machu Picchu
- Tourist train ticket from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo
- Transfer from Ollantaytambo to Cusco
- Double tents (optional single use)
- Sleeping mats
- Porters for camping equipment and food
- Professional bilingual guide (Spanish / English)
- First aid kit and oxygen
- Meals: 3 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 3 dinners
- Bus from Machu Picchu to Aguas Calientes
- Permanent assistance
- Vegetarian option (no extra cost)
What’s Not Included?
- First breakfast and last lunch
- Entrance to Huayna Picchu (USD 79, subject to availability)
- Tips and personal expenses
- Sleeping bag (available for rent)
- Personal porter (optional)
- Single tent (optional)
Tips
Recommendations for Your Inca Trail Trek
- Book 4–6 months in advance
- Bring a rain poncho, sunscreen, sunglasses, and a cap
- Pack a small day backpack
- Bring a camera, headlamp, and extra batteries
- Trekking poles recommended
- Sturdy hiking shoes
- Clothing for variable weather (hot and cold)
- Carry original ID (passport or DNI)
📌 This is one of the most iconic hikes in South America — perfect for those who dream of experiencing the grandeur of the Andes and the mysticism of Machu Picchu through an ancient Inca route that challenges the body and enriches the spirit.
