Classic Inca Trail to Machu Picchu 4 Days – the sacred Inca Trail

The Classic Inca Trail to Machu Picchu 4 Days is arguably the most famous hike in the world. This 42-kilometer journey connects imperial history with breathtaking landscapes, from Andean peaks to the lush cloud forest. Furthermore, the Classic Inca Trail to Machu Picchu 4 Days is the only trek that allows you to enter the citadel through the Sun Gate (Intipunku) at sunrise. Therefore, if you wish to follow the original footsteps of the Incas, you must book this adventure several months in advance due to strict government quotas.

ℹ️ General Information

• Duration: 4 Days / 3 Nights.
• Difficulty: Moderate.
• Advance booking is recommended, around 5–6 months ahead
• UNESCO Site: Explore the Andean Road System, one of the UNESCO World Heritage sites.

⭐ Highlights of the Classic Inca Trail to Machu Picchu 4 Days

• Walk on original stone paths built by the Incas over 500 years ago.
• Conquer the Dead Woman’s Pass, the highest point at 13,780ft (4,200m).
• Explore exclusive ruins like Sayacmarca and Wiñaywayna, only reachable on foot.
• Experience the sunrise at Machu Picchu directly from the Sun Gate.
• Enjoy high-quality meals prepared by our mountain chefs.

🗺️ Itinerary: Classic Inca Trail to Machu Picchu 4-Day Pack

• Day 1: Cusco – Km 82 – Wayllabamba
  06:30 AM: Pick-up from your hotel and drive to Piscacucho (Km 82), the official starting point.
  10:00 AM: Start of the hike along the Vilcanota River, visiting the Patallacta complex.
  05:00 PM: Arrival at the first campsite in Wayllabamba. Dinner prepared by our professional trekking chef.
• Day 2: The Dead Woman’s Pass Challenge – Pacaymayo
  07:00 AM: Start of the trail’s toughest climb, up to Dead Woman’s Pass.
  12:00 PM: Reach the summit at 4,200m (13,780ft), with panoramic views of the glaciers.
  04:00 PM: Descend into the Pacaymayo valley for our second campsite.
• Day 3: Living History: Phuyupatamarca – Wiñaywayna
  08:00 AM: Hike through the Runqurakay sector and the impressive Sayacmarca complex.
  01:00 PM: Lunch at Phuyupatamarca (“Place above the clouds”) with views of the Urubamba River.
  04:30 PM: Descend to Wiñaywayna, considered the most beautiful site before the finish.
• Day 4: The Grand Finale: Sun Gate – Machu Picchu
  04:30 AM: Start of the final stretch toward Intipunku (Sun Gate).
  07:00 AM: First panoramic view of the Machu Picchu citadel at sunrise.
  09:00 AM: 2-hour private guided tour through the agricultural, religious, and urban sectors.
  06:00 PM: Return by train to Ollantaytambo, then final bus transfer to Cusco

Prices are quoted in US Dollars, per person.

• Standard group service: $770.00 (includes expedition-class train ticket or similar on the return)
• Upgrade, with Vistadome train service or similar on the return, plus an extra 5kg luggage allowance: $1,030.00

Please contact us to get more information about availability and prices at info@coclatours.com 

✅ What is Included

• Hotel transfers and transportation to Km 82 (trailhead).
• Official entrance permits for the Inca Trail and Machu Picchu citadel.
• Professional bilingual guide.
• Camping equipment: waterproof tents, dining tent, and sleeping mats.
• Full meal plan (3 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 3 dinners, and daily snacks).
• Porters for logistics, tents, and kitchen equipment.
• Return train ticket (tourist service) and bus down to Aguas Calientes.
• First-aid kit and emergency oxygen.
• Note: tents are shared between 2 passengers. A private/single tent can be arranged for an additional $55.00.

❌ Not Included

• Sleeping bag (rental available for $28.00).
• Personal porter for your own belongings (available for 7kg at $90.00, or 14kg at $175.00).
• First breakfast (Day 1) and final lunch (Day 4).
• Tips for the porter and cooking crew.
• Additional entrance ticket for Machu Picchu Mountain or Huayna Picchu: $85.00.
• Travel insurance and tips for the crew.

🎒 What to Bring

• Documentation: Original passport (the same one used for booking).
• Footwear: Trekking boots with good ankle support.
• Clothing: Thermal layers for the nights and light layers for the day.
• Protection: Rain jacket or poncho (essential), sunscreen, and a hat.
• Hygiene: Insect repellent (minimum 30% DEET) and wet wipes.
• Money: Cash for extra snacks and personal expenses.

Requirements for the student rate:
You can access the discounted entrance rate for Machu Picchu and the Inca Trail by presenting:

• A valid university or college ID card, physical, made of PVC plastic, with a clearly visible expiration date, issued directly by your institution.
• A valid ID document: national ID (Peruvian citizens), foreign resident card, or passport (non-resident foreigners).

Please note: 

• Your student card must still be valid on the day of entry, not just when you book. If your trip is months away, make sure the expiration date covers your travel date.
• The ISIC international student card is no longer accepted. Peru’s Ministry of Culture only recognizes ID cards issued directly by your school or university.
• The student rate applies to most circuits, including Inca Trail entry, Huayna Picchu, Huchuy Picchu, Inca Bridge, and Machu Picchu Mountain.
  We recommend sending us a photo of your student card when booking, so we can confirm it meets the requirements before processing your ticket.

💡 Expert Recommendations

1. Book Early: The Classic Inca Trail to Machu Picchu 4 Days sells out 6 months in advance. Consequently, planning ahead is the only way to secure a spot.
2. Altitude Health: Stay in Cusco for at least 2-3 days before the hike. Therefore, you will enjoy the high passes without altitude sickness.
3. Pack Light: Even if you have a porter, only bring essentials. Every pound counts when you are hiking at 4,000 meters.
4. Footwear: Never wear brand-new boots on the trail. Make sure to break them in weeks before your Classic Inca Trail to Machu Picchu 4 Days adventure.

❓ FAQ 

1. Is the trail open all year? No. The trail is closed every February for maintenance and due to heavy rains.
2. Can I do the Inca Trail alone? No, it is illegal to hike the Inca Trail without a licensed guide and an authorized tour operator.

Complimentary group tours (bus and guide):

• Maras Moray: $14.00 (English and Spanish)
• Southern Valley: 14.00 (English and Spanish)

Cusco Sacred Valley, Coffee & Machu Picchu 5D Tour Optional Add-Ons

• Andean Community (+1D)
• Maras/Moray/Chinchero (+1D)
• Potato Park (+1/2D)