From Cusco : Hike 5 Days Classic Inca Trail to Machu Picchu

Embarking on the Classic Inca Trail from Cusco to Machu Picchu is a challenging yet rewarding journey. Over 5 days, trekkers will ascend to breathtaking heights, witness ancient ruins, and savor local cuisine. Though the trek requires preparation, the payoff of reaching the iconic Incan citadel makes it an unforgettable experience. With professional guides, necessary permits, and logistics handled, adventurers can focus on seeing the stunning landscapes and rich cultural heritage along the way.

Key Points

• The Classic Inca Trail trek from Cusco to Machu Picchu is a 5-day hike covering a distance of approximately 26 miles (42 km).
• The starting price for the trek is $1,068.75 per person, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
• The trek includes transportation, professional bilingual guides, entrance fees, meals, accommodation, and porter services.
• Proper preparation, including having a valid passport and essential hiking gear, is crucial for a safe and enjoyable experience.
• Booking the trek 1-3 months in advance is recommended to secure permits and ensure availability.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Overview and Pricing

The Hike Classic Inca Trail to Machu Picchu is a 5-day trek that takes adventurers from Cusco to the iconic Inca citadel.

The price starts from $1,068.75 per person. Travelers can take advantage of free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

The hike costs $1,068.75 per person, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

The tour also offers a reserve now & pay later option for added flexibility.

The Classic Inca Trail is a popular choice, so it’s recommended to book 1-3 months in advance to secure permits and tickets.

Itinerary Highlights

Starting from Cusco, the trek takes hikers along the Urubamba River to reach Wayllabamba at 3,000 meters on the first day.

Ascending the Warmihuañusca Pass at 4,200 meters, trekkers enjoy valley views before camping at Pacaymayu on day two.

Day three includes climbing to the Runkuracay ruins, reaching the Abra de Runkuracay at 4,000 meters, visiting Sayacmarca, and ascending to Phuyupatamarca.

The final day hikes to Machu Picchu via Inti Punku, offering a guided tour with options to climb Huayna Picchu or relax in Aguas Calientes before returning to Cusco by train.

Inclusions

The Classic Inca Trail to Machu Picchu package includes transportation from Cusco to the starting point at Km 82. Travelers will be accompanied by a professional bilingual guide who speaks both English and Spanish. The package also covers entrance fees for the Inca Trail and Machu Picchu. Meals, including 4 breakfasts, 4 lunches, and 4 dinners, as well as snacks, are provided. Accommodation in Aguas Calientes and porters for tents, cooking equipment, and dining tent setup are also included. First aid equipment and an oxygen tank are available for safety.

| Included | Details |

| — | — |

| Transportation | From Cusco to Km 82 |

| Guide | Professional bilingual (English, Spanish) |

| Entrance Fees | Inca Trail and Machu Picchu |

| Meals | 4 breakfasts, 4 lunches, 4 dinners, snacks |

| Accommodation | In Aguas Calientes |

| Porters | For tents, cooking, and dining |

| Safety | First aid equipment and oxygen tank |

Preparation and Requirements

Prospective hikers should bring along a valid passport on the day of the trek.

Other essential items include:

• Comfortable, broken-in hiking shoes

• Sunglasses, sun hat, and sunscreen

• Warm layers, rain jacket, and change of clothes

• Personal medications, cash, and hand sanitizer

The Inca Trail trek isn’t suitable for pregnant women, individuals with mobility issues, or those with heart problems.

Booking 1-3 months in advance is recommended to secure permits and tickets.

Proper preparation is key to ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience on the iconic Inca Trail to Machu Picchu.

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Important Information

Travelers must carry a valid passport on the day of the trek, as this document is required for the Inca Trail hike and entry to Machu Picchu.

The pick-up times for the tour are linked to the train schedules, so it’s crucial to be punctual.

Once at Machu Picchu, visitors can’t re-enter the site, so plan your time accordingly.

Travelers should also be aware of recent changes in the entrance ticket policy – cancellations no longer refund the Machu Picchu entrance fee.

Transportation and Logistics

Although the pick-up times for the tour are linked to the train schedules, travelers can rest assured that transportation from Cusco to the starting point of the Inca Trail hike at Km 82 is provided.

The journey includes:

1. A bus ride from Cusco to Km 82, the trailhead.

2. Entrance fees for the Inca Trail and Machu Picchu.

3. Assistance with carrying tents, cooking equipment, and other necessary gear by porters.

4. All transportation to return to Cusco on the final day, including a train ride from Aguas Calientes to Cusco.

Accommodation and Meals

The Inca Trail trek provides comfortable accommodations and satisfying meals throughout the 5-day journey.

Hikers will stay in campsites each night, with tents and dining areas set up by the porters. Meals, including 4 breakfasts, 4 lunches, and 4 dinners, are provided. These meals feature a variety of local Peruvian dishes, using fresh ingredients.

Snacks are also available during the day to keep energy levels up. The catering team ensures that dietary requirements are accommodated.

Tour Guide and Support Services

A knowledgeable, bilingual guide leads the Inca Trail trek, providing valuable insight into the history, culture, and natural wonders encountered along the way.

Porters carry tents, cooking equipment, and dining setup, ensuring a comfortable camping experience.

Porters ensure a comfortable camping experience by carrying tents, cooking equipment, and dining setup.

First-aid supplies and oxygen tanks are on hand to address any medical needs during the hike.

Flexible transportation from Cusco to the trail’s starting point, as well as the return journey from Machu Picchu, are included for convenience.

With these professional support services, trekkers can focus on seeing the stunning Andean landscapes and the legacy of the Inca civilization.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Pet on the Inca Trail Hike?

No, pets are not allowed on the Inca Trail hike. The trek is only open to registered hikers, and bringing animals is prohibited to protect the fragile environment and ensure the safety and enjoyment of all participants.

Is There an Age Limit for the Inca Trail Trek?

There’s no strict age limit, but the Inca Trail trek isn’t recommended for young children or seniors due to the physical demands. Most operators require participants to be at least 12 years old and in good physical condition.

Can I Upgrade to a Private Inca Trail Tour?

Yes, you can upgrade to a private Inca Trail tour. This provides a more personalized experience with a dedicated guide and allows for greater flexibility in the daily itinerary. Upgrades are subject to availability and may incur additional costs.

What Is the Cancellation Policy for Inca Trail Permits?

The Inca Trail permit cancellation policy offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. However, recent changes mean entrance fees aren’t refundable even with cancellations.

Can I Extend My Stay in Machu Picchu After the Hike?

You can’t extend your stay in Machu Picchu after the hike. The Machu Picchu visit is regulated, and there’s no re-entry allowed once you’ve completed the tour. You’ll need to return to Cusco on the final day.

The Sum Up

This 5-day Inca Trail trek from Cusco to Machu Picchu promises an unforgettable adventure. Trekkers will be rewarded with stunning landscapes, ancient ruins, and the ultimate destination – the awe-inspiring Machu Picchu. With all logistics taken care of, including permits, transportation, and professional guides, this trek offers a hassle-free and culturally immersive experience for adventurous travelers.

You can check availability for your dates here: