- Tour type
- Adventure and cultural
- Languages
- EN / ES
- Starts in
- Cusco
- Ends in
- Cusco
Overview
Classic Inca Trail 4 days group tour is the perfect choice for travelers who want to experience the most iconic hike in Peru with expert guidance, unforgettable scenery, and the authentic path to Machu Picchu. At Machu Picchu From Cusco, this experience is designed for travelers who want more than a standard trek. It is a well-curated adventure that combines history, nature, and the excitement of sharing the journey with a like-minded group.
The Classic Inca Trail to Machu Picchu is one of the most legendary trekking routes in South America, and this 4 day Inca Trail group tour gives you the complete experience. Along the trail, you will hike ancient stone paths, cross breathtaking mountain passes, explore remarkable archaeological sites, and enjoy the changing beauty of the Andes before arriving at the majestic citadel of Machu Picchu.
Our Inca Trail group trek Peru experience is ideal for travelers who want the energy of a shared adventure without losing the sense of quality and personal care. This route is not only about reaching the destination. It is about discovering the spirit of the Andes through cloud forest paths, panoramic views, and the timeless legacy of the Incas. Every stage of this guided Inca Trail 4 days journey is filled with scenery and history that make the route just as memorable as Machu Picchu itself.
One of the greatest highlights of this Classic Inca Trail 4D/3N adventure is the arrival through the Sun Gate. After days of hiking, that first view of Machu Picchu becomes even more powerful and emotional. It is the kind of moment that transforms a trek into a once-in-a-lifetime memory.
- Sunrise arrival at the Sun Gate
- Dead Woman's Pass at 4,215 m
- Runkurakay, Sayacmarca and Phuyupatamarca
- Wiñay Wayna terraces
- Two-hour guided tour of Machu Picchu
Day-by-day itinerary
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Day01
Cusco - Km 82 – Huallabamba
We will depart from Cusco at 4:30 a.m. in a private transport and head toward KM 82. First we will stop at Ollantaytambo where we will have breakfast and then continue driving until Km 82 to start our hike. At the entra…
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Day02
Huayllbamba - Pacaymayo – Chaquicocha
We wake up early to begin our ascent to the Dead Woman's Pass, and we will have breakfast at 5:00 a.m. and then we will leave. The second day is considered as the hardest day of the Inca trail because we will hike up to…
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Day03
Pacaymayu alto - Phuyupatamarca - Wiñahuayna
Today our hike begins at 5.30 am with our beakfast at 5.00 am. The first 2 hours will be uphill to second highest point (Runku Rakay - 4000m / 13123ft) betwen Pacaymayu alto and Phuyupatamarka there are two archaeologic…
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Day04
Wiñahuayna - Machu Picchu – Return Cusco
Today is a very important day - because we will visit one of the Seven wonders of the world, Machu Picchu. Our wake up will be at 3:00 am with cup of coca tea and snack box breakfast for the way. We start our hike so ea…
What's included
Included
- Professional English & Spanish speaking tour guide
- Official Inca Trail permit
- Machu Picchu entrance ticket
- Private transportation from your hotel in Cusco to Km 82 (trailhead)
- Return train ticket from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo
- Private transportation from Ollantaytambo back to your hotel in Cusco
- All meals during the trek (except last lunch in Aguas Calientes)
- Organic buffet meals prepared by a professional trekking chef
- Breakfasts, lunches, dinners, snacks, and drinking water during the hike
- Porters to carry camping equipment and food
Not included
- Trekking poles (available for rent if needed).
- Last lunch in Aguas Calientes after the Machu Picchu visit.
- Personal expenses such as souvenirs, extra snacks, or additional drinks.
- Tips for porters and tour guide, which are optional and based on your satisfaction.
- Extra beverages not mentioned in the itinerary.
- Additional services not clearly specified in the program.
- Travel insurance (highly recommended).
- Optional entrance tickets to Huayna Picchu Mountain or Machu Picchu Mountain (must be booked in advance).
- Hotel accommodation in Cusco before and after the trek.
Packing list and tips
- Original passport (checked at checkpoints, trains and Machu Picchu)
- Broken-in hiking boots with ankle support
- Daypack of 25 to 35 litres
- Rain jacket or poncho
- Warm layers: fleece, down jacket, hat and gloves
- Sun hat, sunglasses and SPF 50 sunscreen
- Insect repellent
- Headlamp with spare batteries
- Reusable water bottle
- Personal medication and toilet paper
- Some Peruvian soles in cash
- Swimsuit if hot springs are on the route
Recommendations
Inca Trail permits for this tour
These are the live permit spaces. Click a date to book it. For combined treks we calculate the trek start date for you.
Inca Trail permits
Live availabilitySpaces are read from the official permit system. Select a date to start your booking.
Important information and precautions
- Inca Trail permits are limited and non-transferable: we need the full name and passport number of every traveler to buy them
- Once issued, permits cannot change name or date. If you renew your passport, tell us and bring both passports
- The Inca Trail closes every February for maintenance
- Porters carry up to 6 kg of your gear (sleeping bag and mattress included); carry a daypack with what you need during the day
- Train luggage is limited to one small bag of up to 5 kg per person; leave the rest at your Cusco hotel
- Pre-departure briefing in Cusco the day before at 18:00, where you meet your guide and pay the balance
Route map
- 1Cusco
- 2Ollantaytambo
- 3Km 82 (Piscacucho)
- 4Llactapata
- 5Huayllabamba
- 6Warmiwañusca (Dead Woman's Pass)
- 7Pacaymayo
- 8Runkurakay
- 9Sayacmarca
- 10Phuyupatamarca
- 11Wiñay Wayna
- 12Intipunku (Sun Gate)
- 13Machu Picchu
Frequently asked questions
Yes, an official government permit is required to hike the Classic Inca Trail, as access is strictly regulated by the Peruvian authorities to protect this historic route. These permits are limited and sell out months in advance, especially during the high season. When you book with us, the permit is fully included and secured on your behalf. You do not need to handle any paperwork yourself, but you must provide your correct passport information at the time of booking.
The Classic Inca Trail is considered a moderate trek, suitable for travelers with a reasonable level of physical fitness. While previous trekking experience is helpful, it is not mandatory. The main challenge comes from the altitude, especially on Day 2 at Dead Woman’s Pass. The trail includes uphill sections, stone steps, and long walking days, but the pace is well managed, with regular breaks and full support from guides and porters.
The best time to hike the Inca Trail is during the dry season, from April to October, when weather conditions are more stable and views are clearer. June, July, and August are the most popular months, so availability is very limited. The trail can also be hiked during the shoulder months of March and November, when there are fewer crowds but occasional rain. February is closed for maintenance and conservation.
Due to strict permit limitations, we strongly recommend booking the Classic Inca Trail at least four to five months in advance, especially if you plan to travel between May and September. Permits are issued per day and include trekkers, guides, and porters, which means spaces are extremely limited. Last-minute bookings are rarely possible. Booking early ensures your spot and allows proper planning for travel, acclimatization, and equipment preparation.
Travel insurance is not mandatory, but it is highly recommended for all travelers joining the Inca Trail. Your insurance should cover high-altitude trekking, emergency medical care, trip cancellation, and evacuation if needed. While our team carries first-aid equipment and emergency oxygen, insurance provides an extra layer of protection and peace of mind. Having proper coverage ensures you can enjoy the trek confidently, knowing you are prepared for unexpected situations.
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