Classic Inca Trail 4 Days / 3 Nights – Private Service

The Classic Inca Trail 4 Days 3 Nights is a four-day trek to Machu Picchu along one of the ancient routes of the Inca road system. The journey takes you through Andean mountains, cloud forests, and important archaeological sites while following the historic path toward Machu Picchu.

When you book your Classic Inca Trail 4 Days 3 Nights with Cusco Journeys & Adventure, you’re choosing a private trekking service with a professional guide, camping support, meals, porters, and transportation arranged throughout the journey. Learn more about your Inca Trail experience.

Inca Trail Availability

We offer departures for the Classic Inca Trail 4 Days 3 Nights throughout the year, except in February, when the trail is closed for maintenance. Inca Trail permits are limited, so we recommend booking in advance to secure your preferred date.

Highlights

• Walk the historic Inca Trail from Km 82 toward Machu Picchu.
• Trek through high mountains, valleys, and cloud forests.
• Visit Llactapata, Runkurakay, Sayaqmarka, and Wiñay Wayna.
• Reach Warmiwañusca at 4,215 m / 13,829 ft.
• Enjoy impressive views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
• Explore Wiñay Wayna before the final section of the trail.
• Reach Intipunku for your first view of Machu Picchu.
• Finish the trek with a private guided visit of Machu Picchu.

Classic Inca Trail 4 Days 3 Nights at a Glance

Day 1: Cusco – Km 82 – Chachabamba – Llactapata – Wayllabamba – Ayapata

Your private adventure begins at Km 82, the official starting point of the Classic Inca Trail. Walk along the Urubamba River through Andean valleys, surrounded by native flora and traditional villages. Visit the fascinating ruins of Llactapata, then ascend gradually toward Ayapata, your first campsite nestled among tranquil mountains.

Day 2: Ayapata – Dead Woman’s Pass – Runkurakay – Sayacmarca – Chaquicocha

Rise early for the most demanding yet rewarding section: crossing Warmiwañusca (Dead Woman’s Pass) at 4,215 m. Admire breathtaking views of snow-covered peaks, then continue past Runkurakay and Sayaqmarka, showcasing Inca engineering, before camping at Chaquiqocha.

Day 3: Chaquicocha – Phuyupatamarca – Intipata – Wiñay Wayna

Descend into the lush cloud forest, visiting Phuyupatamarka, “the town above the clouds,” and Intipata, with its sweeping terraces. Later, explore Wiñay Wayna, one of the most spiritual sites on the trail. Enjoy a private dinner and celebration with your trekking team.

Day 4: Wiñay Wayna – Sun Gate – Machu Picchu – Aguas Calientes – Cusco

Begin before sunrise, hiking to Intipunku (Sun Gate) for your first view of Machu Picchu as the morning light reveals the citadel. Enjoy a private guided tour exploring its temples and terraces before returning to Cusco, completing your unforgettable Classic Inca Trail journey.

Why Choose the Classic Inca Trail 4 Days 3 Nights?

• Enjoy a private trek planned exclusively for your group.
• Travel with a professional guide throughout the entire route.
• Have porters carry the camping equipment and cooking supplies.
• Sleep in organized campsites for three nights along the trail.
• Enjoy freshly prepared meals during the four-day trek.
• Receive camping equipment and support throughout the journey.
• Have your train and private transportation arranged for the return to Cusco.
• Add optional experiences such as Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain.

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1: Cusco – Trailhead at Km 82 – Wayllabamba – Ayapata.

Highlight of the Day: Begin your trek at Km 82 and spend your first day walking through the lower sections of the Inca Trail toward Ayapata.

We will pick you up at your hotel in Cusco at 5:30 AM! The ride to the trailhead at Kilometer 82 is beautiful! Along the way we will stop at the Raqchi look out to take photos. This gorgeous location overlooks the valley of Urubamba with the Chicon glacier in the background. From this position you can also see Mount Veronica (5,682 m/ 18,637 ft) and the Urubamba River.

After driving an additional 45 minutes we will reach the town of Ollantaytambo. This town is an excellent spot to get breakfast and buy any last minute supplies prior to arriving at the trailhead. You will also have the opportunity to see the Ollantaytambo Inca site while you are here.

We will then get back in the van to travel the final 45 minutes to reach the trail head at Kilometer 82. At this point we will go through the Inca trail checkpoint and begin our Inca Trail hike.

The hike begins with 2 ½ hours of relatively flat terrain until we reach the Wilkaraqay Inca site. From this location we will have gorgeous views of the Llactapata (2,750 m/ 9,020 ft) archeological site, which was a check point on the Inca trail approach to Machu Picchu.

At this point we will go over the history of this site as well as have an overview of the history of the Inca trail. Back on the trail we will hike for 2 hours until we reach Hatunchaca (2,598 m/8,525 ft) where we will have lunch.

This will be your first meal from our incredible chef and will give you an idea of the fantastic food you can look forward to the remainder of the trek!. After lunch we will hike for 2 ½ hours until we reach our camp at Ayapata (3,300 m / 10,829 ft).

This camp is a little further along the Inca trail than the traditional night one camp site of Wayllabamba. This is nice because it is quieter. We will take advantage of this feature of the camp in order to enjoy the stars and beauty of the evening on the Inca trail in serenity.

• Meals: Lunch/Dinner
• Accommodations: Camping
• Maximum altitude: 3300 m/ 10,824 ft
• Distance to walk: 14 km/ 8.7 miles
• Approximate walking time: 7 hours
• Difficulty: Moderate

Day 2: Ayapata – Dead Woman’s Pass – Pacaymayu – Chaquicocha.

Highlight of the Day: Take on the highest and most demanding section of the trail before continuing through the archaeological sites toward Chaquiqocha.

After a delicious breakfast we will begin our hike to the famous Dead Woman’s Pass! For the first two hours we will be in the cloud forest. We will pass through various biozones including the low sierra and the high puna. There are many opportunities to see a variety of plant and birdlife and if we are lucky we may also spot White Tailed Deer.

After this two hour hike we reach Llulluchapampa (3,800 m / 12,460 ft). This is a small camp and it is the absolute last location on the trail to buy supplies. After a 15 minute break we will continue on the trail.

The portion of the trail leading to Dead Woman’s Pass at Warmiwañusca (4,215 m/ 13,825 ft) lasts two hours and takes you through beautiful mountains and the grasslands of the high Andes. We will pause at the top of this pass to admire the majesty of the highest point of the Inca trail.

We will then descend to the Pacaymayu camp for lunch.  After lunch we will ascend 45 minutes to the Inca site of Runcuraccay. We will tour this ruin and then continue uphill for an additional hour to the Runcuraccay pass (3,950 m/ 12,959 ft).

After a descent of 90 minutes we will arrive at the Inca site of Sayacmarca (3,657 m /12,000 ft). At this location we will have the chance to see one of the most amazing sunsets of the Aobamba valley!

From here it is 25 minutes to our campsite for the night at Chaquicocha (3,600 m/11,800 ft). We have chosen this camp for the night instead of the traditional night 2 campsites at Pacaymayu for reasons similar to why we choose Ayapata on night 1. It is less crowded and will allow us a more peaceful encounter with nature!

• Meals: Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner
• Accommodations: Camping
• Maximum altitude: 4215 m/ 13,825 ft
• Distance to walk: 16 km/ 10 miles
• 16 km/ 10 miles: 8-9 hours
• Area: Andes and Cloud Forest
• Difficulty: Challenging

Day 3: Chaquicocha – Phuyupatamarca – Wiñaywayna.

Highlight of the Day: Continue through the cloud forest and explore Wiñay Wayna, one of the final major archaeological sites before Machu Picchu.

After enjoying another delicious breakfast, we will begin our hike, trekking for two hours until we reach the stunning Phuyupatamarca (3,680 m/12,073 ft). From here, we will be treated to breathtaking views of Aguas Calientes, Machu Picchu Mountain, and Huayna Picchu.

Additionally, we will take a guided tour of the Phuyupatamarca Inca site, immersing ourselves in its fascinating history.

Next, we’ll transition into the lush rainforest as we embark on a downhill walk for about 2 ½ hours, making our way toward our next camp. Along this stretch, we will stop at Inti Pata, a spectacular spot known for offering some of the most stunning views and photo opportunities on the entire Inca Trail!

After taking in the beauty, we’ll continue for another 30 minutes until we reach our campsite at Wiñay Wayna (2,680 m /8,792 ft). Upon arrival, we will enjoy a delicious lunch and have some time to rest. Later, we will visit the nearby archaeological site of the same name.

Wiñay Wayna, meaning “forever young” in Quechua, is the largest and most impressive archaeological site along the Inca Trail, and we are one of the few companies to offer a guided tour of this incredible site.

• Meals: Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner.
• Accommodations: Camping.
• Maximum altitude: 3,600 m / 11,808 ft.
• Distance to walk: 10 km / 6.2 miles.
• Approximate walking time: 6 hours.
• Area: High Cloud Forest.
• Difficulty: Easy.

Day 4: Wiñay Wayna – Sun Gate – Machu Picchu – Cusco.

Highlight of the Day: Walk to Intipunku and enter Machu Picchu on foot before enjoying your private guided visit of the citadel.

We will rise very early to complete the final stretch of the Inca Trail, which brings us to Inti Punku or the Sun Gate, the principal entrance of the crystal city of Machu Picchu. The trail here is fairly easy going and after about an hour we will arrive to Inti Punku (2,400 m/ 7,875 ft), an awesome location to observe the citadel of Machu Picchu and sunrise in the Andes.

From Inti Punku it is a further 40 minute downhill hike to the citadel of Machu Picchu. We will go to the classic “photo” spot and take pictures once we arrive. Then there will be a short break prior to starting our tour of Machu Picchu.

The tour will last two hours. If you have elected to climb Huayna Picchu Mountain (Not Included), you should select the 10 AM time spot. When you are finished exploring the extraordinary city of Machu Picchu you will travel to Aguas Calientes by bus.

You will then take the train from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo where our Bus will be waiting to transport you back to Cusco. Arrival time in Cusco depends on the time of your train ticket.

• Meals: Breakfast
• Maximum altitude: 2700 m/ 8856 ft
• Distance to walk: 6 km/ 3.73 miles
• Approximate walking time: 2 hours

Included

• Trek briefing with your guide.
• Professional trek guide.
• Second tour guide for groups of 9 or more.
• Private transportation with a professional driver to Km 82.
• Inca Trail and Machu Picchu entrance permits, including Circuit 3.
• Indigenous porters to carry camping equipment, food, and cooking supplies.
• Bus ticket from Machu Picchu to Aguas Calientes.
• Professional bilingual guide in Spanish and English.
• Tourist-class train from Machu Picchu Pueblo to Ollantaytambo.
• Three nights of camping.
• Additional porter who carries 6 kilos of your belongings (you’ll only need a small backpack to carry what you need during the day!).
• Spacious tents and sleeping mats.
• Boiled water provided from the 3rd day onward.
• One chef and assistant cook.
• 3 breakfasts, 3 lunches, and 3 dinners.
• Tea time before dinner, including tea, coffee, biscuits, and popcorn.
• Wake-up coca tea served in your tent.
• Hot water for washing in your tent every day.
• Biodegradable soap and hand cleansing gel.
• Walkie-talkies used by Cusco Journeys & Adventure during the trek.
• Oxygen tank and first aid kit.
• All local taxes.

Not Included

• Breakfast on the first day.
• Lunch and dinner on the fourth day.
• Sleeping bag.
• Trekking poles.
• Personal porter.
• Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain entrance.
• Travel insurance.
• Tips for guides, cooks, and porters.
• Personal expenses.

What you need to take

Classic Inca Trail to Machu picchu 4 Days 3 Nights is like any other high altitude trek, so it is essential to be well prepared. As it begins in the dead of night morning, consider to pack the following Items:

• Original passport.
• Good hiking shoes or trekking boots.
• Comfortable hiking clothes.
• Warm layers for cold nights.
• Rain jacket or poncho.
• Sun hat and sunglasses.
• Sunscreen and insect repellent.
• Reusable water bottle.
• Personal medications.
• Small daypack.
• Personal toiletries.
• Toilet paper and hand sanitizer.
• Headlamp or flashlight.
• Camera and extra batteries.
• Small amount of cash for personal expenses.
• Trekking poles, if you plan to use them.
• Sleeping bag, if you are not renting one.

💰 Prices

Our Classic Inca Trail 4 Days / 3 Nights is offered as a private service, with the price based on the number of travelers in your group.

2 people: $1,189 per person
3 people: $1,109 per person
4 people: $1,069 per person
5 people: $1,009 per person
6 people: $979 per person
7+ people: $949 per person

Important: The price includes up to 6 kg (13 lb) of your personal belongings, which will be carried by the porters, so there is no need to hire an additional personal porter.

Booking and Payment

To confirm your reservation for the 4-Day Classic Inca Trail, a deposit is required in advance.

• Deposit: 40% per person (to secure your spot)
• Balance: The remaining amount can be paid online or at our office in Cusco

We accept credit cards, PayPal, and bank transfers. If you prefer a different payment method, feel free to contact us for alternative options.

Discounts

• 18 to 25 years old: $25 USD Information required on student card: name of university, student name, photo of student, expiration date etc. A copy of the card is required at booking for government approval for discount.
• Under 18 years old: $25 USD Please send us a copy of your passport at the time of booking.
• Under 11 years old: $30USD  Please send us a copy of your passport at the time of booking.

Optional Extras (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).

Upgrades

Hotel Upgrades

• Inkaterra (5 star hotel) – US $325 per person per night (double occupancy).
• Hotel el Mapi (4 star hotel) – US $105 per person per night (double occupancy).
• Santuario Hotel (3+ star hotel) – US $65 per person per night (double occupancy).

Train Upgrades

• Vistadome train -US $65 for trip from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo (Need to book in advance).
• Hiram Bingham train (deluxe) -US $585 for trip from Aguas Calientes to Poroy (Need to book in advance).

Rentals:

• Hiking poles – US$20.00
• Sleeping bag – US$25.00
• Private Tent – US$30.00

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) – Classic Inca Trail 4 Days 3 Nights

1.- What is the Inca Trail?

The Inca Trail is an ancient route that leads to Machu Picchu and follows sections of the original Inca road system. The classic 4-day trek begins at Km 82 and passes through archaeological sites, mountain landscapes, and cloud forest before reaching Machu Picchu through the Sun Gate.

2.- Do I need a guide or porters? Do I have to join an organized tour?

Yes. The Classic Inca Trail must be operated through an authorized travel agency with a professional guide. Porters are also part of the trekking team and carry the camping equipment, food, and cooking supplies needed along the route.

3.- Is the Inca Trail difficult?

The Inca Trail is considered a moderate to challenging trek. The difficulty comes mainly from the steep stone steps, long walking days, and changes in altitude. The second day is the most demanding, as you climb to Dead Woman’s Pass before continuing toward Chaquicocha.

4.- How many hours will I hike each day?

Walking times vary depending on the day and trail conditions. The itinerary estimates around 7 hours on Day 1, 8–9 hours on Day 2, about 6 hours on Day 3, and around 2 hours on Day 4.

5.- What are the requirements to hike the Classic Inca Trail 4 Days 3 Nights?

Travelers should have a moderate level of fitness and be prepared for several consecutive days of hiking at high altitude. A valid passport is also required because your personal information is used when purchasing the Inca Trail permit.

6.- How high is the Classic Inca Trail 4 Days 3 Nights?

The highest point of the trek is Dead Woman’s Pass, also known as Warmiwañusca, at approximately 4,215 m (13,825 ft). The trail then descends toward Pacaymayu before continuing through the higher sections of the route and into the cloud forest.

7.- Is altitude sickness common?

Altitude sickness affects people differently, so it is difficult to predict who may experience symptoms. Spending a few days in Cusco before the trek gives your body time to adjust to the altitude. Taking the first days at a comfortable pace and staying hydrated can also help with acclimatization.

8.- When is the high season on the Classic Inca Trail 4 Days 3 Nights?

The Inca Trail is popular throughout the year, with May to September generally being the busiest period. During these months, permits can become available for only a limited time, so planning ahead is especially important. The trail is closed every February for maintenance.

9.- How far in advance should I book my tour?

Because Inca Trail permits are limited, we recommend booking at least 6-4 months in advance to secure your preferred date. During busy travel periods, booking earlier is advisable because popular dates can fill quickly.

10.- Do I need a permit to hike the Inca Trail?

Yes. An official Inca Trail permit is required, and we need your passport information to purchase it. This includes your full name, date of birth, nationality, passport number, and passport expiry date. Please check that all information is correct before the permit is issued, as changes may result in the loss of the permit.

11.- Is the Classic Inca Trail 4 Days 3 Nights worth it?

Yes. The Classic Inca Trail is a great option if you want to experience the original route to Machu Picchu, spend three nights in the Andes, visit several Inca archaeological sites, and enter Machu Picchu through Intipunku. The private service also gives your group more flexibility and personalized attention throughout the trek.

12.- Can I hire an extra personal porter?

Yes. An additional personal porter can be hired if you would prefer not to carry your personal belongings during the trek. The standard service already includes porter support for camping equipment, food, and cooking supplies, while the extra porter is available for your personal luggage at an additional cost.

Travel Information

At Cusco Journeys, we’re committed to making your adventure in Peru memorable, safe, and easy to enjoy. This brief guide includes the most important details to review before starting your trek or tour from altitude preparation and luggage management to Machu Picchu entry and health tips.

Take a moment to read it carefully; it will help you get ready and experience the magic of the Andes with comfort and confidence.

Briefing Before the Trek

All pre-trek briefings are personally conducted at your hotel in Cusco around 5:00 pm, one or two day before your trek or tour begins. The meeting lasts approximately 30 to 45 minutes and is an essential part of your preparation.

During this session, our guide will go over the itinerary in detail, provide your duffel bag, and answer any final questions to ensure you’re fully prepared for your adventure.

Acclimatization in Cusco

It’s very important to be well acclimated to the altitude before starting any trek. Cusco lies at 3,400 meters (11,150 ft) above sea level, and your body needs time to adjust to the thinner air.

We recommend that you arrive in Cusco at least 2 or 3 days before your trek begins to prevent altitude sickness and to enjoy your trip without discomfort.

What to Do Before Your Trek

During your acclimatization days, take it easy and explore some nearby attractions:

• Cusco City Tour: Discover the Main Square, the Cathedral, and the Temple of the Sun (Qoricancha).
• Sacred Valley Tour: Visit Pisac, Ollantaytambo, and the famous Maras Salt Mines.
• Moray & Maras Excursion: Learn about ancient Inca agricultural techniques.
• Q’eswachaka Bridge Tour: Experience the last Inca handwoven bridge still used today.
• Rainbow Mountain Tour: Hike to one of Peru’s most stunning natural wonders, famous for its vibrant, multi-colored slopes.

These short tours are perfect for getting used to the altitude while discovering the region’s rich history.

Trek Balance Payment (in Cusco)

If you have an outstanding balance, please make the payment at least two days before your trek or tour. Otherwise, your reservation cannot be confirmed.

Whenever possible, we kindly ask you to settle the remaining balance in cash (USD or Peruvian Soles) during your briefing session. There are several ATMs along Avenida Sol where you can withdraw both currencies.

You may also pay by credit/debit card or PayPal, either online or in person; however, please note that a 5% service fee will be applied by our payment gateways (Niubiz and PayPal).
Unfortunately, we are unable to accept bank checks or traveler’s checks for balance payments.

Duffel Bag or Canvas Case

You’ll receive a duffel bag or canvas case during the briefing. Size: 60 × 24 × 22 cm (23.6 × 9.45 × 8.66 in), Maximum weight: 6 kg / 13 lb, including clothes and personal items.

Our team of porters will carry your bag throughout the trek and hand it back to you at each camp. Remember that this limit includes your sleeping bag and any personal belongings you wish to take.

Can I store my luggage at your office?

Absolutely! During your trip, you may store your main luggage safely at our office (arrange it with us during your briefing or by email) or at your hotel, both free of charge.

Any items you won’t need during the trek can remain at your hotel — most hotels offer secure luggage storage. Please avoid leaving valuables in your bags; instead, place them in the hotel safe and request an itemized receipt, as many insurance companies require this in case of loss.

For added security, you can also store important items such as credit cards in a sealed and signed envelope.

Machu Picchu Entrance Circuits and Schedule

Machu Picchu now operates with specific timed entries and fixed circuits to preserve the site and ensure an enjoyable experience for all visitors.

• Circuit 1: Upper viewpoints and panoramic terraces 
• Circuit 2: Central area of the citadel
• Circuit 3: Lower sector and agricultural terraces 

For our Inca Trail groups, the standard visit is usually Circuit 3, around 8:00 or 9:00 a.m., depending on ticket availability and government regulations. After completing your route, park rangers will guide you toward the exit, re-entry is not allowed.

If you wish to explore another route or stay longer, you can request an additional entrance ticket (subject to availability and extra cost).

Pick-Up of Guests

All pick-ups are made from your hotel within Cusco City. We recommend staying in the historic center for easier access. Our guide will confirm your pick-up time one day before the tour, but please note that it may vary by 30 to 45 minutes depending on traffic and hotel locations.

Cusco is an ancient city with narrow, cobbled streets, and some hotels or Airbnbs may not have direct vehicle access. If your accommodation is in such an area, we’ll coordinate the closest possible meeting point for your convenience.

Return from Machu Picchu to Cusco

Returning from Machu Picchu involves several steps, but don’t worry — everything is included in your tour. After visiting Machu Picchu, you’ll take a 25-minute bus down to Aguas Calientes (buses operate on a first-come, first-served basis).

From there, you’ll board a train to Ollantaytambo; your guide will provide the tickets and indicate your departure time. Please arrive at the platform 30 minutes before departure.

The train ride takes about 1 hour and 45 minutes, followed by a 2-hour bus journey back to Cusco City.

Group Tours

Our group tours bring together travelers of different ages and fitness levels. Everyone can walk at their own pace, and our guide will manage the group so that all participants enjoy the experience comfortably.

If changes to the itinerary are needed, the guide will decide after consulting with the group.

Strikes and Demonstrations

Occasionally, strikes or protests may occur in Peru, which can affect roads or train schedules. In these cases, Cusco Journeys will make every effort to maintain your itinerary or adjust departure times if needed. Your safety always comes first, and all decisions will be made to protect it.

Lost Objects

You are responsible for your personal belongings throughout the tour. Please be mindful of where you leave your items and make sure to remove everything from our vans, tents, and restaurants after each stop. Avoid leaving anything unattended during the hike, as other trekkers or staff might mistake it for lost property.