Cusco: Inca Trail To Machupicchu 4 Days And Panoramic Train

Brace yourself for an awe-inspiring trek through the Andes, where ancient Inca ruins and the world-famous Machu Picchu await your discovery.

Embark on an unforgettable journey through the heart of the Andes. This 4-day Inca Trail trek from Cusco to Machu Picchu promises breathtaking landscapes, ancient ruins, and a guided tour of the iconic citadel. With a panoramic train ride back, all essentials covered, and a reasonable price tag, it’s an adventure worth exploring. But what awaits trekkers on this once-in-a-lifetime journey through the Inca Empire’s heartland?

Key Points

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  • The Inca Trail to Machu Picchu 4 Days tour offers a guided small group experience with professional guides, porters, and transportation, including a panoramic train ride back to Cusco.
  • The 4-day itinerary includes hikes to various archaeological sites, a climb to the Warmiwañusca pass, and a guided tour of Machu Picchu on the final day.
  • The tour package includes safety briefing, tents, meals, and all necessary equipment, with optional rentals for sleeping bags and hiking poles.
  • The tour is not suitable for individuals with mobility, respiratory, or back issues, and participants are recommended to bring essential hiking gear.
  • The total distance covered is 45 km at high altitude, and participants must provide passport information during booking, with children requiring adult accompaniment.
You can check availability for your dates here:

Overview and Pricing

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The Inca Trail to Machu Picchu 4 Days tour is priced at $830.00 per person.

The Inca Trail to Machu Picchu 4 Days tour is priced at $830.00 per person.

This small group tour is limited to 16 participants and offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. Travelers can reserve their spot now and pay later.

The 4-day duration includes live guides in English and Spanish. Porters carry up to 7 kg of belongings, and meals, transportation, tents, and entrance fees are included.

It’s not suitable for those with mobility, respiratory, or back issues. Optional extras like sleeping bags and hiking poles are available for rent.

Itinerary Highlights

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This 4-day Inca Trail to Machu Picchu tour offers an immersive experience, starting with the first day’s hike that includes visits to the Canabamba and Llactapata archaeological sites.

On the second day, hikers climb to the Warmiwañusca pass, enjoying mountain views and exploring more ancient sites.

The third day takes travelers through the jungle, stopping at Phuyupatamarca and INTIPATA.

The final day begins with an early hike to the Sun Gate, followed by a guided tour of the iconic Machu Picchu before returning to Cusco by panoramic train.

Inclusions and Amenities

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As part of the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu 4-day tour, travelers can expect several inclusions and amenities to enhance their experience.

The package includes a safety briefing, inflatable mattresses and tents, all transportation, porter service, professional guides, cooks, and porters.

Meals are prepared with fresh local ingredients, and entrance fees to the Inca Trail and Machu Picchu are covered.

Travelers will also receive a bus from Machu Picchu to Aguas Calientes and a panoramic train back to Ollantaytambo.

A first aid kit and oxygen bottle are available for emergencies.

Preparation and Recommendations

To properly prepare for the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu 4-day tour, travelers should bring essential items like their passport, windbreaker, sunglasses, hat, camera, hiking shoes, sunscreen, rain gear, daypack, and hiking pants.

It’s also recommended to pack a 2-liter water tank and light, comfortable hiking boots in a 24-liter backpack.

The trek isn’t suitable for pregnant women, those with mobility issues, respiratory problems, or back pain.

Dietary options are available, and a valid student ID is required for student bookings.

Renting a sleeping bag ($25) and hiking poles ($20) is optional.

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Important Information and Restrictions

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The total distance covered on the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu 4-day tour is 45 km at high altitude.

Passport information is required at booking, and children must be accompanied by an adult.

Drones, littering, explosive substances, and bare feet aren’t allowed.

Rental options include sleeping bags for $25 USD and hiking poles for $20 USD.

Visitors can also purchase optional entrance tickets for Huayna Picchu mountain.

These restrictions and requirements ensure the safety and preservation of the Inca Trail and Machu Picchu for all participants.

Exploring Canabamba and Llactapata

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On the first day of the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu 4-day tour, hikers will explore the archaeological sites of Canabamba and Llactapata.

Canabamba is an Inca ruin along the Vilcanota River, featuring terraced agricultural fields and stone buildings.

Canabamba, an Inca ruin along the Vilcanota River, showcases terraced agricultural fields and stone buildings.

Further up the trail, Llactapata offers panoramic views of the Andes and the Urubamba River valley.

Hikers will learn about the Inca’s advanced agricultural practices and urban planning as they discover these sites en route to their first campsite at Ayapata.

The day’s trek covers approximately 12 km, gradually ascending to an elevation of 2,980 meters.

Conquering the Warmiwañusca Pass

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As hikers ascend to the Warmiwañusca pass on the second day, they’ll be rewarded with stunning mountain vistas. Climbing to an elevation of 4,200 meters, the Warmiwañusca pass, also known as "Dead Woman’s Pass", offers breathtaking panoramic views of the Andes. Navigating this challenging section requires endurance and determination, but the sense of accomplishment is unparalleled.

| Elevation | Distance | Difficulty | Duration |

| — | — | — | — |

| 4,200 m | 12 km | Strenuous | 5-7 hours |

Explorers will encounter well-preserved Inca archaeological sites along the way, providing a glimpse into the empire’s rich history. Trekkers should stay hydrated, pace themselves, and embrace the journey as they conquer this iconic pass on the Inca Trail.

Discovering Phuyupatamarca and INTIPATA

After conquering the challenging Warmiwañusca pass, hikers descend into the lush vegetation of the jungle.

They’ll explore the impressive Inca ruins of Phuyupatamarca, known as the "Town in the Clouds." Perched atop a mountain ridge, this site features intricate stone structures, agricultural terraces, and aqueducts.

Continuing the trek, they’ll reach INTIPATA, an archaeological site with panoramic views of the Urubamba River canyon. Hikers can marvel at the ingenious Inca engineering and imagine life in this remote mountain setting centuries ago.

Hikers reach INTIPATA, an archaeological site with panoramic views of the Urubamba River canyon, marveling at the Inca’s ingenious engineering.

These ruins provide a glimpse into the Inca civilization’s architectural achievements along the legendary Inca Trail.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Maximum Group Size for the Tour?

The Inca Trail to Machu Picchu tour is limited to 16 participants, creating a small group experience. This ensures a personalized and intimate exploration of the iconic Inca sites along the trail.

Can I Add Extra Porters to Carry My Belongings?

Yes, you can add extra porters to carry your belongings. The tour includes porter service for up to 7 kg of belongings, but you can hire additional porters if you need to carry more gear.

Are There Any Age Restrictions for Participants?

There are no age restrictions, but children must be accompanied by an adult. The tour is not suitable for pregnant women, those with mobility issues, respiratory problems, or back problems.

Can I Upgrade to a Private Tour Option?

Yes, you can upgrade to a private tour option. Private tours are available for an additional fee and provide a more customized and exclusive experience with a dedicated guide just for your group.

Are Permits Required to Hike the Inca Trail?

Yes, permits are required to hike the Inca Trail. Permits must be booked in advance as they’re limited and sell out quickly. Hikers can’t access the trail without a valid permit.

The Sum Up

This 4-day Inca Trail trek to Machu Picchu offers an unparalleled adventure. Hikers will be rewarded with breathtaking vistas, ancient ruins, and the iconic Machu Picchu. With professional guides, meals, and porter service, travelers can focus on the journey and create lasting memories. Whether a seasoned hiker or a first-time adventurer, this small group tour provides an unforgettable experience not to be missed.

You can check availability for your dates here: