Summary
Important Details
- Frequency: Scheduled departures (check availability)
- Duration: 4 days / 3 nights
- Start time: Day 1 – Around 05:00 h
- Return time: Day 4 – Between 20:00 and 21:00 h
- Mode: Shared Group
- Difficulty level: High (good physical condition required)
Why Travel with Peru Coyana?
The Inca Trail to Machu Picchu is one of the world’s most iconic hikes, and a favorite route for lovers of history, nature, and adventure. Over 4 days and 3 nights, you’ll walk ancient paths built by the Incas, crossing spectacular landscapes that blend Andean mountains, cloud forests, sacred valleys, and breathtaking archaeological sites.
This journey includes visits to historical sites like Llactapata, Runkurakay, Sayacmarca, Phuyupatamarca, and Wiñaywayna, culminating at the majestic Machu Picchu through the legendary Sun Gate (Inti Punku).
It’s a transformative experience—where nature, spirituality, and ancestral legacy merge in a deeply meaningful connection with the land.
Itinerary Summary
- Day 1: Cusco – Km 82 – Wayllabamba – Overnight in Camp
- Day 2: Wayllabamba – Warmiwañusca – Pacaymayo – Camp
- Day 3: Pacaymayo – Runkurakay – Wiñaywayna – Camp
- Day 4: Wiñaywayna – Inti Punku – Machu Picchu – Return to Cusco
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1 – Cusco → Km 82 → Wayllabamba
Early morning pick-up from your hotel in Cusco. We travel by private transport to Piskacucho (Km 82), the official start of the Inca Trail. We begin the hike by crossing a bridge over the Urubamba River and continue on a mostly flat trail to Miskay. From there, we ascend toward the archaeological site of Llactapata before reaching Wayllabamba (3,000 m.a.s.l.), where we set up the first campsite.
- Distance: 12 km
- Estimated time: 5 – 6 h
- Max altitude: 3,000 m
Day 2 – Wayllabamba → Warmiwañusca → Pacaymayo
After breakfast, we begin the most challenging ascent of the trek. We climb to Llulluchapampa and then to Warmiwañusca Pass (4,225 m), also known as the “Dead Woman’s Pass”—the highest point of the trail. From here, we descend into the Pacaymayo Valley (3,600 m), where we spend the second night.
- Distance: 11 km
- Estimated time: 6 – 7 h
- Max altitude: 4,225 m
Day 3 – Pacaymayo → Runkurakay → Wiñaywayna
This is the longest but most culturally and naturally rewarding day. We ascend to Runkurakay Pass (3,970 m), visit the archaeological site of the same name, then descend to Sayacmarca. We continue through an Inca tunnel, reach Phuyupatamarca, and descend via stone steps to Wiñaywayna, a stunning Inca agricultural and ceremonial complex where we camp for the third night. A special farewell dinner will be served.
- Distance: 16 km
- Estimated time: 8 – 9 h
- Max altitude: 3,970 m
Day 4 – Wiñaywayna → Inti Punku → Machu Picchu → Cusco
We wake up very early (04:00 a.m.) to reach Inti Punku (Sun Gate) and witness sunrise over Machu Picchu—a truly unforgettable moment. We then descend to the citadel, check-in, and begin a guided tour through the main areas. Afterward, you’ll have free time to explore on your own or climb Wayna Picchu (if reserved in advance). Finally, we head down to Aguas Calientes for lunch and take the train back to Ollantaytambo. A bus will return you to your hotel in Cusco.
- Distance: 6 km
- Estimated time: 3 – 4 h
- Max altitude: 2,750 m
Includes / Not Included
What’s Included in the Classic Inca Trail Tour?
- Hotel pick-up in Cusco
- Private transport to Km 82
- Entry tickets to the Inca Trail and Machu Picchu
- Professional bilingual guide throughout the trek
- Full meals (3 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 3 dinners)
- Porters for camping and kitchen equipment
- Camping gear: tents, mats, utensils
- Dining and kitchen equipment: tent, chairs, tables
- First aid kit and oxygen
- Train ticket Machu Picchu – Ollantaytambo (Expedition)
- Final transfer from Ollantaytambo to Cusco
- Entrance to Wayna Picchu (optional, upon reservation)
What’s Not Included?
- First breakfast (Day 1) and last lunch (Day 4)
- Sleeping bag (available for rent)
- Trekking poles
- Bottled water and personal snacks
- Personal hygiene items
- Tips
- Additional personal expenses
Tips
Recommendations for Your Classic Inca Trail Tour
- Train ahead of time and ensure good physical condition
- Carry a light backpack (max. 6 kg) with essentials
- Wear comfortable, waterproof, quick-dry clothing
- Bring a headlamp and spare batteries
- Use sunscreen, a hat, and insect repellent
- Bring a refillable water bottle and purification tablets
- Carry your personal documents (ID or passport)
- Bring soles in cash for additional expenses or tips
- Camera with good battery life and storage
- Note: Advance booking is highly recommended, especially during high season. Only 500 people are allowed on the Inca Trail per day (including guides and porters).
