The Inca Trail to Machu Picchu is a renowned trekking adventure that takes hikers on a captivating journey through the heart of the Andes. This 4-day excursion promises an immersive experience, allowing adventurers to uncover the rich history and breathtaking landscapes that have made the Inca Empire a source of fascination for centuries. Along the way, you will have the opportunity to explore archaeological wonders, navigate the cloud forest, and ultimately reach the iconic ruins of Machu Picchu. With a skilled bilingual guide leading the way and essential amenities provided, this trek offers a chance to disconnect from the everyday and reconnect with the timeless wonder of this legendary destination.

Key Points

  • The Inca Trail to Machu Picchu is a 4-day hiking adventure priced at $896 per person with free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start.
  • The tour features a live guide fluent in Spanish and English and includes highlights such as cloud forest, archaeological remains, and Inti Punku.
  • The daily itinerary includes significant stops and activities, including ascending Warmiwañusca at 4,200 m.a.s.l. and visiting the ruins of Sayacmarca.
  • The tour includes transportation, camping gear, meals, guides, permits, and return train tickets, with optional fees for Waynapicchu and Machu Picchu Mountain entrance.
  • Rental options for sleeping bags and walking sticks are available to enhance the hiking experience and manage trek challenges.
You can check if your dates are available here:

Overview and Pricing

The Inca Trail to Machu Picchu is a renowned 4-day hiking adventure that offers travelers a chance to explore the ancient ruins and stunning landscapes of Peru.

Priced at $896 per person, this all-inclusive tour includes free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start date and a reserve now, pay later option.

The tour’s duration is 4 days, with a live tour guide available in both Spanish and English.

Highlights of the trail include the cloud forest, archaeological remains, and the iconic Inti Punku, also known as the "Door of the Sun".

With a range of optional add-ons, the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu provides an unforgettable experience for outdoor enthusiasts.

Experience Details

This 4-day hiking adventure along the renowned Inca Trail offers travelers a chance to enjoy the ancient ruins and stunning landscapes of Peru. Accompanied by a live tour guide fluent in Spanish and English, visitors will witness the cloud forest, archaeological remains, and the famous Inti Punku (Door of the Sun). The experience is divided into a detailed daily itinerary:

Day Highlights
1 Travel to Km. 82, visit Ollantaytambo, begin hike, lunch at Patallaqta, overnight at Wayllabamba
2 Ascend to Warmiwañau00dscca (4200 m.a.s.l.), overnight at Pacaymayu
3 Hike to Runkuraqay, lunch at Sayacmarca, descend to WiñaÑywayna
4 Early hike to Inti Punku, guided tour of Machu Picchu, return to Cusco

Daily Itinerary

INCA TRAIL TO MACHUPICCHU - Daily Itinerary

The 4-day Inca Trail to Machu Picchu adventure kicks off with an early 5:30 a.m. pickup.

First, travelers visit Ollantaytambo for last-minute purchases before beginning the hike. They’ll enjoy lunch at Patallaqta and overnight at Wayllabamba.

On day two, the group ascends to the impressive Warmiwañusca pass at 4,200 meters, taking in the stunning valley views before reaching their camp at Pacaymayu.

The third day involves hiking to Runkuraqay, lunch at Sayacmarca, and a descent to Wiñaywayna.

The final day starts early with a hike to Inti Punku, the Sun Gate, followed by a guided tour of the iconic Machu Picchu, allowing free time to explore this ancient Inca citadel.

Included Amenities

Although the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu package includes a wide range of amenities, participants should note certain extras that aren’t covered.

The tour provides transportation, camping gear, meals, guides, permits, and return train tickets. However, the first breakfast, last lunch, specialized snacks, travel insurance, and tips aren’t included.

Optionally, hikers can pay additional fees for:

  1. Entrance to Waynapicchu and Machu Picchu Mountain ($60 each)
  2. Bus ticket from Machu Picchu to Aguas Calientes ($12)
  3. Sleeping bag rental ($20)
  4. Walking sticks rental ($20)

Participants are advised to review the inclusions and budget accordingly for a seamless Inca Trail experience.

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Equipment Options

Participants have several rental options to consider when preparing for the Inca Trail trek. Hikers can rent a sleeping bag for $20, which provides warmth and comfort during the cooler mountain nights.

Walking sticks are also available for rental at $20 per pair, offering stability and support on the uneven terrain. While these rental items are optional, they can greatly enhance the overall hiking experience and make the trek more manageable.

The tour operator provides the necessary camping equipment, including 4-season tents, so participants don’t need to worry about bringing their own.

With these convenient rental options, hikers can focus on enjoying the stunning natural landscapes along the Inca Trail.

Excluded Expenses

While the Inca Trail tour package includes a comprehensive set of services, there are a few additional expenses participants should be aware of.

These additional costs aren’t included in the tour price, but they can enhance the overall experience.

The excluded expenses for the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu tour are:

  1. First breakfast and last lunch
  2. Special snacks or personal items
  3. Travel insurance
  4. Tips for the guides and porters

It’s important to factor in these additional costs when planning the trip to ensure a seamless and enjoyable journey along the historic Inca Trail.

Availability Check

Travelers can easily check the availability of the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu tour on the provider’s website.

The availability is displayed for different participant numbers and dates. Customers can select their preferred travel dates and group size to see if the tour is available for their preferred options.

The website provides real-time updates on the tour’s availability, allowing travelers to plan their trip accordingly.

If the desired dates or group size aren’t available, the website may suggest alternative options or waitlist opportunities.

Checking availability is a straightforward process that ensures travelers can secure their spot on this popular trekking experience.

Highlights

The Inca Trail to Machu Picchu offers a captivating journey through the stunning Cloud Forest, where hikers can marvel at the archaeological remains of the Inca civilization.

Highlights of this incredible trek include:

  1. Reaching the awe-inspiring Inti Punku, or "Door of the Sun," which offers breathtaking views of the legendary Machu Picchu.

  2. Exploring the well-preserved ruins of Sayacmarca, a significant Inca settlement along the trail.

  3. Ascending to the towering Warmiwañusca, or "Dead Woman’s Pass," at an impressive elevation of 4,200 meters above sea level.

  4. Immersing oneself in the rich history and cultural heritage of the Inca Empire, as revealed through the various archaeological sites encountered along the route.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Minimum Age Requirement for the Inca Trail Trek?

The overview does not specify a minimum age requirement for the Inca Trail trek. However, the physical demands of the hike may make it unsuitable for very young children. Participants should consult with the tour operator for their recommended age guidelines.

Are There Any Altitude Sickness Precautions or Recommendations?

The trek involves significant elevation gains, so it’s important to acclimatize properly. Operators offer advice on altitude sickness prevention, including staying hydrated, avoiding alcohol, and taking it slowly. Travelers should consult their doctor beforehand to discuss any health concerns.

Can I Bring My Own Camping Gear Instead of Renting?

Travelers can bring their own camping gear instead of renting, but the tour company recommends using their equipment as it’s high-quality and ensures proper setup for the challenging Inca Trail conditions. This can provide peace of mind during the hike.

Is There an Option to Upgrade the Train Tickets?

Yes, there’s an option to upgrade the train tickets. Travelers can choose to upgrade to the Vistadome or Hiram Bingham train service at an additional cost, which offers more amenities and a more luxurious travel experience to and from Machu Picchu.

Can I Book This Tour as a Solo Traveler?

Yes, solo travelers can book this Inca Trail to Machu Picchu tour. The package is designed for individual travelers and includes all the necessary support, like a live tour guide and porters to carry camping equipment.

Recap

The Inca Trail to Machu Picchu offers an unparalleled opportunity to take in the rich history and stunning landscapes of the Inca Empire. With its captivating 4-day itinerary, knowledgeable guides, and essential amenities, this trek promises an unforgettable journey to the iconic ruins of Machu Picchu. Whether traversing the cloud forest or exploring archaeological sites, participants can expect an adventure that will leave a lasting impression.

You can check if your dates are available here: