Classic Inca Trail 4 Days / 3 Nights – Private Service

Embark on an unforgettable journey with the Classic Inca Trail 4 Days 3 Nights, a once-in-a-lifetime adventure to the Lost City of the Incas. This incredible trek through the Andes offers stunning views, ancient ruins, and rich history, creating memories that will last forever.

When you book your Classic Inca Trail 4 Days 3 Nights with Cusco Journeys & Adventure, you’re choosing a trusted, top-rated company. Check out our glowing reviews on TripAdvisor to see why we’re the best choice for your Inca Trail experience.

Inca Trail Availability: We offer daily departures for the Classic Inca Trail 4 days 3 Nights, except for February when the trail is closed for maintenance. Be sure to book in advance and secure your spot for this incredible trek!

Useful Information:

• Starting Altitude: 2,720m / 8,920ft
• Highest Altitude: 4,217m / 13,780ft
• Walking Distance: 45km / 26 miles
• Longest Day: Day 2, approximately 16km / 9.9 miles
• Coldest Night: Day 2, around 0º Celsius
• Overall Difficulty: Moderate.

Book now your Classic Inca Trail 4 Days 3 Nights and get ready for the adventure of a lifetime!, Spaces are limited and the journey is truly unforgettable ancient ruins, lush valleys, and the magic of Machu Picchu await. Don’t miss your chance to be part of this iconic experience.

Pre-trek briefing

You will have a thorough briefing with your guide 1 or 2 days before your Classic Inca Trail 4 Days 3 Nights. During this meeting, your guide will meet you at your hotel, providing you with the perfect opportunity to ask any questions and finalize your preparations.

Detailed Itinerary:

Day 1: Cusco – Trailhead at Km 82 – Wayllabamba – 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
• Minimum altitude: 2,750 m/ 9,020 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

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
• Minimum altitude: 3,300 m/ 10,824 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

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.
• Minimum altitude: 2,680 m / 8,792 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

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 private van will be waiting to transport you back to your hotel in Cusco. Arrival time in Cusco depends on the time of your train ticket.

• Meals: Breakfast
• Maximum altitude: 2700 m/ 8856 ft
• Minimum altitude: 2,430 m/ 7,972 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+.
• Private transport and professional driver (to the starting point of hike – km 82).
• All entrance tickets and permits for Inca Trail and Machu Picchu.
• Indigenous porters to carry camping equipment: client tents, dining and cooking tents, table, stools, cooking gear, stove, gas container, cutlery, plates, food and fresh vegetables.
• Bus ticket from Machu Picchu to Aguas Calientes Village.
• Professional bilingual guide (Spanish and English).
• 1 train ticket from Machu Picchu Pueblo to Ollantaytambo village (Tourist Train).
• 3 nights camping .
• Spacious tents/Sleeping mat.
• Boiled water provided from 3nd day on (for drinking during hike).
• One chef and assistant cook.
• Excellent Meals: 3 Breakfasts, 3 Lunches and 3 Dinners.
• Tea time before dinner (tea, coffee, biscuits, popcorn).
• Wake up to coca tea in your tent.
• Buckets of hot water for washing in your tent every day.
• Biodegradable soap and hand cleansing gel.
• Cusco Journeys & Adventure uses walkie-talkies on all treks.
• Oxygen Tank & First aid kit.
• All local taxes.

Does Not Included:

• Sleeping Bag (Can be hired from us).
• Breakfast on Day 1 and lunch and dinner on Day 4.
• Entrance to Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain $ 75.00.
• Extra energy snacks.
• Sleping Bag.
• Walking Stick.
• Travel Insurance.
• **Tips for the crew (Porters, chef and guide).

What you need to take

Classic Inca Trail 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:

• A good day pack: such as Eagle Creek Afar Backpack (Appropriate pack to carry your personal belongings.)
• Original passport.
• Travel insurance.
• Lighter trekking boots (with good ankle support).
• 3 pairs of trekking pants (not jeans), 1 hiking, 1 cotton–which is just enough. 
• Layers for variable temperatures especially at night.
• 1 rain jacket.
• 1 warm/winter jacket (Thermals: wool socks/gloves, scarf and woolen hat for cold nights).
• 4 pairs of underwear.
• 4 shirts, 2 long sleeve shirts.
• 1 good sleeping bag. 
• Travel-size tissues and wet wipes. 
• Iron tablets and pills for altitude sickness. 
• Sun protection cream (SPF 35 or higher recommended).
• Bug spray with 30% DEET.
• Re-usable plastic or metal water container or a hydration pack such as Camel-back.
• Water (Only for first day of the hike, as we will provide you with water throughout the rest of the hike).
• Camera and film.
• A headlamp to navigate camp in the evenings and pre-dawn mornings with spare batteries
• Bandages or moleskin.
• Flip flops to change into at night. 
• Toiletries.
• Medication.
• Plastic bags for dirty and wet clothes.
• Something to read in the evenings.
• Extra money for drinks.
• Emergency money at least 300-450 extra soles (USD$ 220).

The Classic Inca Trail 4 Days 3 Nights runs daily from March to January. It’s closed in February due to the rainy season and trail maintenance.

Private Service:

• 2 people: $1199 per person

• 3 people: $1079 per person

• 4 people: $1029 per person

• 5 people: $979 per person

• 6 people: $969 per person

• 7+ people: $949 per person

**Important: Price includes up to 6 kilos of your personal belongings to be carried by the mules (NO need of extra Porter hire!).

Discounts:

• 18 to 25 years old:$25 USD. Information required from the student card: name of university, student name, photo of student, expiration date, etc. A copy of the card is required at booking to obtain government approval for the discount.
• Under 18 years old:$25 USD. Please send us a copy of your passport at the time of booking.
• Under 11 years old:$30 USD.  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 $480 per person per night (double occupancy)
• Hotel el Mapi (4 star hotel) – US $145 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

Inca Trail FAQ’s

1.- What is the Inca Trail anyway?

The Inca Trail is the name given to a walking route that partially follows the course of an old Inca roadway leading to the city of Machu Picchu. For most people, the trail begins at the point of “Km82” on the railway between Cusco and Machu Picchu and ends at Machu Picchu itself.

The Inca Trail is not the name of a particular travel company’s itinerary, although many travel companies offer Inca Trail tours.

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

Yes, it is mandatory to hire the services of a guide and an authorized travel agency for this Inca Trail trek.

3.- Is the Inca Trail difficult?

The Inca Trail is considered a moderate to difficult hike.

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

Make sure you pack your comfortable hiking boots, because it is estimated you’ll be walking six to nine hours for each of the first three days and about two hours on the last day.

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

To trek the Inca Trail with Cusco Journeys & Adventure, you must be over the age of 12, with a moderate level of fitness, and hold a passport that is valid for up to six months.

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

The trek begins at 2,800m (9,186 ft). The highest point you’ll reach on the trek is approximately 4,215m (13,780ft). You’ll also sleep at 3,700m (11,811 ft) for at least one night.

7.- Is altitude sickness common?

It’s impossible to predict who will be affected by altitude sickness, as adaptation capacity varies from person to person. Most of our travelers experience no problems at all, as long as they take the time to properly acclimatize to Cusco.

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

Hiking the Inca Trail is popular all year round, however May to September is considered the high season. This means that permits can be sold out months in advance. However, if permits are not available, there are some options to Hike to machu Picchu.

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

To reserve a spot on the Classic Inca Trail 4 Days 3 Nights, we recommend you book your tour at least six months in advance during high season (May to October) and three months in advanced during low season (November to April).

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

Yes. We require the following information for the purchase of an Inca Trail permit:

• Full name (as it appears on your passport)
• Date of birth
• Nationality
• Passport number
• Date of passport expiry (*Must be valid for the date of travel)

Please note that any attempt to modify your personal information will result in the loss of your permission. No refunds will be issued, so be sure to verify your information.

11.- Is it true that the Trail is going to be closed?

Yes, the Inca Trail is temporarily closed during the month of February for maintenance and cleaning.

12.- Can I spend an extra night in Aguas Calientes?

Of course, if you don’t mind taking the same train that departs from Aguas Calientes, according to your original itinerary.

If you decide to spend an extra night in Aguas Calientes, be sure to inform the Cusco Journeys office at least a month in advance so your train ticket is purchased for the correct day.

13.- How do we get back to Cuzco?

After you’ve taken in all the beauty of Machu Picchu, your group will travel by bus to Aguas Calientes and then catch a train back to Ollantaytambo, where you meet you’ll take a bus back to Cusco.

14.- Is it possible to skip the Inca Trail even if the tour includes it?

Yes! Let us know that you don’t want to hike the Inca Trail when you book. We’ll arrange for you to spend two nights in Cusco and then take the train to the town of Aguas Calientes. You will rejoin your group at Machu Picchu.

15.- Do porters carry our luggage on the Inca Trail?

Yes! We’ll provide you with duffle bags with a capacity of 6 kg for your belongings so our expert porters can carry them throughout your Inca Trail trek.

16.- Will I be given a sleeping bag and mat?

Sleeping bags are not provided, so we recommend bringing a compact three-season sleeping bag. You can also rent a sleeping bag in Cusco; just let us know when you book. We provide our travellers with foam mats.

17.- What type of food will be served on the Inca Trail?

Our cooks prepare excellent high-quality meals that are perfect for a day of trekking. The menu usually includes: pasta, rice, chicken, fresh fruit and vegetables, oatmeal, and eggs. If you’re a vegetarian, no problem! We’re able to cater to your needs. If you have any dietary restrictions or allergies.

18.- Is purified water available on the trail?

We usually offer boiled water from the second day to Machu Picchu, but some tourists prefer to buy it from locals to help the local population.

19.- Can I climb Huayna Picchu (optional)

Yes, you just need to let us know, and we’ll make the purchase to climb this mountain. Remember that reservations must be made at least 4 to 3 months in advance; there’s an extra cost of $75 per person.

20.- Can I bring my own walking stick?

Yes, as long as it’s not a metal-tipped walking stick, as it’s not permitted on the trail. These must have rubber tips.

21.- What is the suggested amount that I should tip the guides and porters?

Tipping is at your discretion, but is always appreciated. If you enjoyed the service you enjoyed from your guides, cook and porters.

By booking or participating in a tour and any related products or services (a “Tour”) with Cusco Journeys, you agree to these Terms & Conditions.

Booking:

1. Your booking is confirmed and a contract exists when the Tour Operator or your travel agent issues a written confirmation after receipt of the applicable deposit amount. Please check your confirmation carefully and report any incorrect or incomplete information to the Tour Operator or authorized agent immediately. Please ensure that names are exactly as stated in the relevant passport.
2. You will pay a deposit which is completely non-refundable in any situation. There are no exceptions.
3. You will be required to show the original passport (not a copy) that you booked with, at the checkpoint to enter the Inca Trail. If you originally booked with an old passport and then renewed your passport, you must also bring your expired passport along with your new, valid passport to permit entry or they will refuse your entrance to the trail.
4. The only acceptable ID to receive a Student Discount is your University Card with a clear expiration date that must be the same year as trek. IDs with expiry dates the following year, even though clearly valid, will not be accepted by the Peruvian government. You must submit a copy of this card at time of booking.

Cancellations:

1. Cancellations: In order to confirm this trip, a deposit of 40% is required per person at time of booking. The balance of the trip price is due 90 days before the departure date. Special holiday payment and cancellation terms may apply. Guests who must cancel their trip for any reason must do so in writing (we do not accept medical notes of any kind) as our out of pocket expenses are non-refundable to us.. Standard cancellations are subject to the following per-person penalties, based on number of days prior to departure:

ONCE BOOKED, DEPOSITS ARE NON-REFUNDABLE. CHART BELOW OUTLINES WHAT FURTHER FEES WILL BE DUE.

Inca Trail Tours:

1. Permits: Permits for the Inca Trail are in your name and can not be transferred to anyone else under any circumstances. Change of dates is also not possible once a permit has been purchased. Permits are non-refundable and non-transferable. The deposit will be forfeited. Please note that this is a regulation of the Peruvian government and not Cusco Journeys (or any agency).
2. In extreme cases when the “Inca Trail to Machu Picchu” is declared closed for safety reasons, Cusco Journeys will replace your trek with an alternative trek.
3. Those who booked PERMITS with a Student ID must bring that ID with them on the trek. If they fail to show this card to the Park Rangers, they will not be allowed entry onto the trail.

Medical Information:

1. You must advise Cusco Journeys of any medical problems or allergies you may have. You need to be in good physical health, and if your health is questionable, then you should consult a doctor. If you are over the age of 70 years old, then you will need to present us with a current good health medical certificate.
2. You are responsible for assessing whether a Tour is suitable for you. You should consult your physician to confirm your fitness for travel and participation in any planned activities. You should seek your physician’s advice on vaccinations and medical precautions. The Tour Operator does not provide medical advice. It is your responsibility to assess the risks and requirements of each aspect of the Tour based on your own unique circumstances, limitations, fitness level and medical requirements.
3. Cusco Journeys reserves the right to deny you permission to travel or participate in any aspect of a Tour at any time and at your own risk and expense where the Tour Operator determines that your physical or mental condition renders you unfit for travel or you represent a danger to yourself or others.
4. Pregnancy is considered a medical condition and must be disclosed to the Tour Operator at the time of booking. The Tour Operator may refuse to carry pregnant women over 24 weeks. The Tour Operator may refuse to carry anyone with certain medical conditions if reasonable accommodation or alternatives cannot be arranged.
5. It is strongly encouraged to purchase Travel Insurance to protect you in case of medical emergency or any tour cancellations.

Tours and Treks:

1. All balances need to be paid in either cash, Western Union, Transfer Bank or PayPal (in full) prior to the briefing which will be held the night before your tour. Visa incurs a 5% service fee and if you need to use another card, it must be through PayPal which incurs a 5.5% service fee.
   You must advise your guide if you wish to leave the group or the camping area for independent walks or sightseeing. If you are experiencing any problems with the services of the guide or tour, please advise the guide in that moment, so that he can resolve any problems.
2. All Adventure Treks include transportation to Cusco. The return train route depends on train availability.
3. If you become ill or injured on the trail and are unable to continue, a porter will be provided to accompany you back to an area with emergency assistance capabilities. Helicopter air lifts and medical assistance are at the expense of the trekker. If you are unable to complete the tour due to illness, we will assist you in meeting your group at Machu Picchu to recommence your tour at that point. There will be no refund of the original payment. However, we will prepare a document to certify illness which can be presented for your travel insurance.
4. Cusco Journeys will take all reasonable care in providing to our clients avoidance of accident, illness, and loss of personal property, and will only employ suitably qualified staff. We accept responsibility for the actions of our own employees. Cusco Journeys cannot, however, be responsible for any action of third parties. You are totally responsible for your own personal property and rented equipment.
5. Cusco Journeys does not take responsibility for unfavorable weather conditions, natural catastrophe, strikes, accidents, illness, injury, loss of personal ítems, etc. It is the client’s responsibility to carry insurance to cover these types of events. We reserve the right to modify or cancel the program due to any of the unforeseen conditions listed above.
6. Cusco Journeys may modify your itinerary where reasonably required in its sole discretion.
7. Group tours might be as large as 16 participants. Groups are open to everyone no matter skill or age. By accepting a Group Tour you acknowledge that others might change the speed and timing of the tour.
8. All tours are done in English.

Delays:

1. Any costs, whether direct or incidental, incurred by the Customer as the result of delays caused by bad weather, trail conditions, river levels, road conditions, transportation delays, sickness, government intervention or other contingencies which are beyond the control of southern explorations will not be reimbursed.

Thank you so much for choosing Cusco Journeys!!!