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!

• Trek the Inca Trail through breathtaking Andean mountains and lush cloud forests.
• Visit impressive archaeological sites such as Llactapata, Runkurakay, and Wiñay Wayna.
• Challenge yourself at Warmiwañusca Pass, the highest point of the trail at 4,217 m / 13,780 ft.
• Enjoy your first panoramic view of Machu Picchu from the trail’s lookout.
• Experience a private guided exploration of Machu Picchu, including its temples, terraces, and historical areas.

Complete your journey with memories of dramatic mountain vistas, verdant valleys, and the rich culture of the Incas. Reserve your Classic Inca Trail 4 Days 3 Nights and enjoy a fully personalized trekking experience that you will remember forever.

Day by Day Experience

Day 1: Cusco – Km 82 – Canabamba – Llactapata – Huayllabamba – 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 – Warmiwañusca Pass – Pacaymayu – Runkurakay – Sayaqmarka – Chaquiqocha

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: Chaquiqocha – Phuyupatamarka – 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 – Intipunku – 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.

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
• 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
• 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.
• 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 wake up early to complete the final section of the Inca Trail, leading to Inti Punku, the traditional vantage point overlooking Machu Picchu. The path is mostly gentle, and after about an hour of walking, we will reach Inti Punku (2,400 m / 7,875 ft), a perfect spot to admire the citadel and the sunrise over the Andes.

From here, it’s a further 40-minute descent to Machu Picchu itself. Upon arrival, we will pause for photographs at one of the most striking viewpoints before beginning a two-hour guided exploration of the city, visiting its temples, terraces, and ceremonial areas.

If you have booked a climb to Huayna Picchu (not included), you will need to reserve the 10 AM time slot with your guide.

After touring the citadel, we will take the bus back down to Aguas Calientes. From there, you will board the train to Ollantaytambo, where our bus will be ready to drive you back to Cusco.

Arrival time in Cusco will depend on your train schedule, completing a memorable conclusion to your Inca Trail journey.

• 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+.
• Private transport and professional driver (to the starting point of hike – km 82).
• All entrance tickets and permits for Inca Trail and Machu Picchu – Circuit 3 (day 4).
• 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 $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

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.- 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.

13.- 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.

14- 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.

15.- 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.

16.- 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.

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.

Main Circuits

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

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.