From Cusco: 4-day Inca Trail Trek to Machu Picchu

The 4-day Inca Trail trek from Cusco is a bucket-list adventure through some of Peru’s most breathtaking landscapes. Hikers will ascend to the iconic Dead Woman’s Pass, explore ancient Inca ruins, and culminate their journey with an early morning hike to the legendary Machu Picchu. Priced from £845.85 per person, this guided trek includes all the essentials for an unforgettable experience. Whether you’re a seasoned trekker or a first-time explorer, the Inca Trail offers a chance to discover the wonders of Peru’s rich cultural heritage.

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Key Points

The 4-day Inca Trail trek from Cusco to Machu Picchu covers a total distance of approximately 22.9 miles, with highlights including the Dead Woman’s Pass and historic Inca sites.
The trek is led by expert guides in English and Spanish, and includes transportation, camping gear, meals, and entrance fees, with a starting price of £845.85 per person.
Booking the trek requires at least six months in advance due to limited availability, and is subject to a non-refundable cancellation policy.
Travelers are recommended to pack essential items such as sturdy hiking shoes, sun protection, and warm clothing to prepare for the varying Andean climate.
The optional climb of Huayna Picchu offers panoramic views of Machu Picchu, but requires an additional cost and advance request.

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Overview and Pricing

The Inca Trail Trek to Machu Picchu is a 4-day activity that takes adventurers on a captivating journey through the stunning Andes.

Priced from £845.85 per person, this limited-group tour includes essentials like bus transfers, entrance fees, camping gear, and meals.

Guided by experts in English and Spanish, the trek covers 6-10 miles each day, reaching the iconic Machu Picchu on the final day.

With a cancellation policy that’s non-refundable, it’s crucial to book the trek at least six months in advance, especially during the peak season from May to August.

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Itinerary Highlights

A four-day trek on the Inca Trail takes adventurers through some of the most breathtaking landscapes in the Andes.

Day 1 covers 6.8 miles, culminating at Huayllabamba.

On Day 2, trekkers ascend to Dead Woman’s Pass, covering 6.21 miles.

The third day journeys 9.9 miles to Wiñaywayna, visiting historic Inca sites along the way.

Finally, an early morning hike on Day 4 leads to Machu Picchu, where an optional climb to Huayna Picchu provides stunning panoramic views of the iconic citadel and surrounding mountains.

Included Services

This trek package includes a comprehensive set of services to ensure a seamless and enjoyable experience. Participants will receive round-trip transportation, entrance fees, camping equipment, meals, and professional guides. The included services are:

| Service | Inclusion |

| — | — |

| Transportation | Bus transfer to trailhead, train ticket to Ollantaytambo |

| Camping | Tents, mattresses, kitchen, and dining facilities |

| Meals | Full meals, snacks, and tea service |

| Guides | Professional English-speaking guide, expert cook, porters |

| Extras | Oxygen, medical kit, entrance tickets, gratuities |

These inclusions cover the essential needs of the Inca Trail trek, allowing trekkers to focus on the journey ahead.

Preparation and Recommendations

Booking the Inca Trail trek to Machu Picchu should be done at least six months in advance, especially during the high season from May to August.

The Inca Trail closes every February for maintenance. Travelers will need to provide their full name, passport number, nationality, and birthdate when booking.

Those wishing to climb Huayna Picchu should request it at the time of booking, as it incurs an additional cost. The trek isn’t recommended for children aged 12 and younger.

Packing essentials include a passport, sunglasses, sunscreen, gloves, hiking shoes, hat, warm clothing, and rain gear.

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Essential Packing List

When packing for the Inca Trail trek to Machu Picchu, travelers should ensure they’ve a passport, as it’s an essential document required for the journey.

A passport is an essential document for the Inca Trail trek to Machu Picchu, as travelers must have it for the journey.

Sunglasses and sunscreen are a must to protect against the Andean sun. Gloves, a warm hat, and layered clothing are also crucial to stay comfortable in the varied mountain climate.

Sturdy hiking shoes are essential for the challenging trails. A rain jacket or poncho is advisable, as the weather can be unpredictable.

Bringing a water bottle, snacks, and personal medications is also recommended for the multi-day trek.

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The Trek to Machu Picchu

Although the Inca Trail trek to Machu Picchu is a challenging hike, it offers trekkers a unique opportunity to enjoy the stunning Andean landscape and uncover the rich history of the Inca civilization.

The 4-day trek covers over 26 miles, ascending to the famous Dead Woman’s Pass at 13,800 feet. Along the way, hikers will discover ancient Inca ruins, traverse mountain passes, and witness breathtaking views of snow-capped peaks.

The final day culminates in an early morning trek to the Lost City of the Incas, Machu Picchu, where trekkers can explore the iconic citadel with a guided tour.

Exploring Machu Picchu

After completing the challenging Inca Trail trek, trekkers are rewarded with a guided tour of the magnificent Machu Picchu.

The tour explores the ancient Inca citadel’s iconic landmarks, including the Temple of the Sun, the Intihuatana Stone, and the Plaza of the Three Windows.

The ancient Inca citadel’s iconic landmarks, including the Temple of the Sun, the Intihuatana Stone, and the Plaza of the Three Windows, are explored during the tour.

Trekkers can climb Huayna Picchu for a stunning panoramic view, if booked in advance.

The guided tour provides insight into the Inca’s engineering feats and the city’s purpose as a religious, agricultural, and administrative center.

Exploring Machu Picchu is the culmination of the Inca Trail trek, leaving trekkers in awe of this remarkable archaeological wonder.

Practical Considerations

Booking the Inca Trail trek should be done well in advance, ideally at least six months prior, especially during the high season from May to August. The Inca Trail closes every February for maintenance. Trekkers should provide their full name, passport number, nationality, and birthdate when booking. An extra cost may apply for climbing Huayna Picchu. The trek is not recommended for children 12 and younger.

| Required Gear | Recommended Gear |

|—————–|——————|

| Passport | Sunglasses |

| Hiking Shoes | Sunscreen |

| Warm Clothing | Gloves |

| Rain Gear | Hat |

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Minimum Age Requirement for the Trek?

The Inca Trail trek to Machu Picchu is not recommended for children 12 and younger. The minimum age requirement for this trek is 13 years old, as it can be physically demanding for younger participants.

Can I Bring My Own Porter or Guide?

The tour doesn’t allow participants to bring their own porter or guide. All services, including porters and an expert guide, are provided as part of the included package. Travelers must use the tour’s designated staff for the trek.

Is There an Option to Do a Shorter Trek?

There’s no option for a shorter Inca Trail trek. The package includes the standard 4-day hike, and private porters or guides aren’t allowed. The trek can’t be customized or shortened.

What Is the Maximum Group Size for the Tour?

The maximum group size for the 4-day Inca Trail Trek to Machu Picchu is limited to 10 participants. The tour offers a small-group experience with English and Spanish-speaking guides.

Can I Book the Tour Closer to the Departure Date?

The tour has a limited group size of 10 participants, so it’s best to book the tour at least six months in advance, especially during the high season from May to August. Closer bookings may not be available.

The Sum Up

The 4-day Inca Trail Trek to Machu Picchu is a must-do adventure for outdoor enthusiasts. Trekkers will be rewarded with stunning landscapes, ancient ruins, and the iconic Machu Picchu. While the trek can be challenging, the included services and expert guidance ensure a memorable and well-supported experience. Advance planning is crucial, especially during peak season, to secure this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.