The Inca Trail to Machu Picchu is a renowned 4-day, 3-night trekking adventure that takes adventurers through Peru’s stunning landscapes. Priced affordably, this small-group tour offers personalized attention from experienced guides as you explore ancient ruins and diverse ecosystems. From scaling the Warmiwañusca Pass to discovering iconic sites like Phuyupatamarca, each step of the journey promises an unforgettable experience. With essential amenities provided, the only decision left is whether to add the optional Huayna Picchu climb to complete this bucket-list adventure.
Key Points
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The Inca Trail to Machu Picchu is a 4-day, 3-night trekking experience starting from Cusco, with a price starting from $776.81 per person.
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The itinerary includes highlights such as the Warmiwañusca Pass, Phuyupatamarca, and the final trek to Machu Picchu via the Puerta del Sol.
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The tour is limited to a small group size of 15 participants, with a bilingual guide available to ensure a personalized and immersive experience.
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Inclusions cover entrance fees, transportation, meals, and camping gear, while additional services like sleeping bags and hiking poles are available for rent.
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Huayna Picchu entry and travel insurance are additional optional services that can enhance the overall trekking experience.
Tour Overview and Pricing
The Inca Trail to Machu Picchu is a 4-day, 3-night trekking experience that starts from Cusco.
The Inca Trail to Machu Picchu is a 4-day, 3-night trekking experience that starts from Cusco.
It’s priced from $776.81 per person. Travelers can reserve a spot without upfront payment and get a full refund if they cancel 24 hours in advance.
The small group size is limited to 15 participants, with a live tour guide available in English and Spanish.
The tour includes entrance fees, transportation, meals, and camping gear. Travelers can rent sleeping bags and poles.
Huayna Picchu entrance isn’t included, and travel insurance is strongly recommended.
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Itinerary Highlights
The Inca Trail adventure begins at Cusco, where trekkers head to Piscacucho (km 82) to start their journey. Day 1 takes them through the Llactapata, Huayllabamba, and Ayapata checkpoints. Day 2 climbs to the Warmiwañusca Pass (4215 masl), followed by the Runkurakay Pass, Sayaqmarka, and Chaquicocha. On Day 3, they reach Phuyupatamarca (3600 masl), Intipata, and Wiñay Wayna. The final day leads to Machu Picchu via the Puerta del Sol, with the return to Cusco.
| Day | Highlights | Elevation |
| — | — | — |
| 1 | Llactapata, Huayllabamba, Ayapata | – |
| 2 | Warmiwañusca Pass, Runkurakay Pass, Sayaqmarka, Chaquicocha | 4215 masl |
| 3 | Phuyupatamarca, Intipata, Wiñay Wayna | 3600 masl |
Group Size and Guide
Small group sizes are a hallmark of the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu experience. The tour limits participation to just 15 people, ensuring an intimate and personalized journey.
Your guide will be available in both English and Spanish, ready to share their expertise and passion for this iconic trek. For larger groups, an assistant guide will also be provided to enhance the experience.
With this small group format, you’ll enjoy:
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Personalized attention from your guides
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Easier coordination and navigation of the trail
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More opportunities for questions and engagement
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A more immersive and authentic exploration of the Inca legacy.
Inclusions and Amenities
To ensure a comfortable and worry-free trekking experience, the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu tour includes a comprehensive set of amenities and services. This includes a professional bilingual guide, entrance fees, transportation, and meals. Plus, campers are provided with essential equipment like tents, dining areas, and first aid kits. A personal porter is also available to carry up to 7 kg of gear. The tour’s inclusions are designed to make the journey more enjoyable and hassle-free for participants.
| Inclusions | Details |
| — | — |
| Guide | Professional bilingual guide, assistant for larger groups |
| Entrance Fees | Inca Trail and Machu Picchu |
| Transportation | From Cusco to km 82, return train, Machu Picchu to Aguas Calientes |
| Meals | 3 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 3 snacks, 3 dinners |
| Camping Gear | Tent, dining area, foam mattress, oxygen balloon, first aid kit, personal porter for 7 Kg |
More Great Tours NearbySleeping Bag and Pole Rental
Along With the comprehensive camping equipment provided, sleeping bags and poles are available for rent. This ensures you’ll have all the necessary gear to stay warm and comfortable throughout the Inca Trail trek.
The rental options include:
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High-quality sleeping bags rated for cold temperatures.
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Durable and lightweight trekking poles to assist with steep terrain.
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Affordable rental fees to fit your budget.
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Convenient pickup and drop-off at the tour’s starting point in Cusco.
Renting these essential items will enhance your Machu Picchu hiking experience.
Huayna Picchu Entrance
Entrance to the iconic Huayna Picchu, the mountain that overlooks the ancient Inca citadel of Machu Picchu, isn’t included in the standard Inca Trail tour package.
Those wishing to ascend Huayna Picchu must purchase a separate ticket, which is limited to 400 visitors per day. Tickets are in high demand and sell out quickly, so it’s recommended to book well in advance.
The hike takes approximately 2-3 hours roundtrip and offers breathtaking views of Machu Picchu and the surrounding Andes.
For the best experience, consider adding this optional excursion to your Inca Trail adventure.
Travel Insurance Recommendation
Why is travel insurance strongly recommended for the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu? The trek involves hiking at high altitudes, which presents risks like altitude sickness.
Plus, the weather can be unpredictable, causing delays or disruptions. Travel insurance protects against:
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Medical emergencies and evacuation costs
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Trip cancellations or interruptions
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Lost, stolen, or damaged gear
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Unexpected changes or delays in transportation
Considering the remote nature of the trail and the associated risks, purchasing comprehensive travel insurance is a wise decision to safeguard your Inca Trail adventure.
Additional Services
Though the Inca Trail package includes a comprehensive set of amenities, travelers may opt for additional services to enhance their experience. These include renting a sleeping bag and hiking poles, as well as purchasing entry to Huayna Picchu. Travel insurance is also strongly recommended. Pricing for these extras can be found in the table below.
| Service | Price |
| — | — |
| Sleeping Bag Rental | $5 per day |
| Hiking Poles Rental | $3 per day |
| Huayna Picchu Entry | $60 per person |
| Travel Insurance | Varies by provider |
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Physical Difficulty Level of the Inca Trail Hike?
The Inca Trail hike is considered a moderate to challenging trek, with steep ascents, high altitudes, and uneven terrain. Hikers should be in good physical condition to complete the 4-day journey.
Can I Customize the Inca Trail Tour to My Preferences?
Yes, travelers can customize the Inca Trail tour to their preferences. Many tour operators offer flexible options, allowing customers to adjust the itinerary, group size, and select additional activities or services to suit their needs.
What Are the Weather Conditions Typically Like During the Hike?
The weather on the Inca Trail can vary significantly. Expect cooler temperatures at higher elevations, with the possibility of rain, snow, or fog. Proper clothing and preparation are essential to enjoy the hike comfortably.
Are There Any Age or Fitness Requirements to Participate in the Inca Trail Tour?
The Inca Trail hike has no strict age or fitness requirements, but it’s a challenging trek. Participants should be reasonably fit and able to hike 4-7 hours per day at high altitudes. The tour operator can advise on suitable fitness levels.
What Are the Options for Acclimatizing to the High Altitude Before the Hike?
To acclimatize to the high altitude, the tour company recommends spending a few extra days in Cusco before the hike. This allows travelers to adjust gradually and reduce the risk of altitude sickness during the Inca Trail trek.
The Sum Up
The Inca Trail to Machu Picchu offers an unforgettable 4-day, 3-night trekking experience through stunning landscapes and ancient ruins. With a small group size, personalized attention from bilingual guides, and all necessary amenities provided, travelers can embark on a memorable journey to the legendary Machu Picchu. The tour’s reasonable pricing and inclusions make it an attractive option for those seeking an immersive Inca adventure.
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