CLASSIC INCA TRAIL TO MACHU PICCHU
04 DAYS / 03 NIGHTS
Group Size:
Up to 10 people
Difficulty:
Challenging
Type Service:
Group / Private
Departures:
Daily
Transport:
Van, Train, Bus
Max Altitude:
4,215 m / 13,828 ft
The 4-Day Inca Trail to Machu Picchu is an unforgettable trek through ancient Inca pathways, impressive archaeological remains, and diverse Andean landscapes. Along the route, you will cross high mountain passes, enjoy spectacular views of the surrounding peaks, and experience the remarkable natural and cultural heritage of Machu Picchu National Park.
The trail takes you through different ecological environments, where you may encounter native birds, flowers, and other wildlife. After reaching the Sun Gate (Inti Punku), you will have your first breathtaking view of Machu Picchu before continuing to the citadel for a guided tour of this extraordinary Inca site.
***Callanga Family Explorers offers an unforgettable 4-Day Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, combining ancient Inca pathways, breathtaking Andean landscapes, and a remarkable journey to the iconic citadel of Machu Picchu.
CLASSIC INCA TRAIL 4-DAY ITINERARY
DAY 1: CUSCO - KM 82 - WAYLLABAMBA - AYAPATA
Itinerary
Your 4-Day Inca Trail adventure begins early in the morning. Your guide will pick you up from your hotel in Cusco at 4:30 a.m., and we will travel toward Piskacucho, better known as Km 82, the official starting point of the Inca Trail. Along the way, we will stop in Ollantaytambo around 6:30–7:00 a.m. for breakfast, giving you the opportunity to enjoy a good meal before beginning the trek.
We will reach Km 82 at approximately 8:30 a.m. Before starting the hike, you will have time to use the restrooms, apply sunscreen and insect repellent, and make your final preparations. At the checkpoint, you will meet the porters and hand over your duffel bag, keeping only a small daypack with the essentials you will need during the hike. You must present your passport and, if you have booked under the student rate, your student ID card. Your guide will have the necessary permits and entrance tickets ready.
The trail begins at approximately 2,720 m (8,923 ft). After crossing the Vilcanota River, we follow the valley on a relatively gentle section of the route, often described as the “Inca flat” terrain. This first part provides a pleasant introduction to the trek while offering beautiful views of Huillca Raccay, the impressive archaeological site of Llactapata (Patallacta), and the surrounding Urubamba mountain range. You will also have views toward the snow-capped Veronica Mountain (5,860 m / 19,225 ft), also known as Wakay Willca, which rises above the landscape.
We will stop at Hatunchaca for our first lunch of the trek. After lunch, there are approximately three more hours of hiking before reaching the campsite. The route continues through the green valley toward Wayllabamba (3,000 m / 9,842 ft), a small settlement surrounded by mountains and vegetation. From Wayllabamba, we continue for approximately two additional hours until reaching Ayapata, our campsite for the night.
Nighttime temperatures can fall to around 5°C (41°F) depending on the season, with colder conditions generally experienced during the dry months from May to September.
Once you arrive at the campsite, your tent will already be prepared. You can settle in and rest while our team serves afternoon tea and snacks, giving you time to relax after your first day on the Inca Trail.
-Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner.
-Accommodation: Camping facilities.
-Distance: 12kms/7.5miles.
-Hiking Time: Approximately 6 hours.
-Difficulty: Easy/Moderate.
DAY 2: AYAPATA - DEAD WOMAN’S PASS - PACAYMAYU - CH’AQUI QQOCHA
Itinerary
Day 2 is one of the most demanding and rewarding sections of the Inca Trail. Your guide will wake you at approximately 5:30 a.m. with a warm cup of tea or coffee, which you can enjoy from the comfort of your sleeping bag before getting ready for breakfast. After a nutritious and filling meal, you will prepare your daypack with only the essentials for the long day ahead.
We begin with a steady and demanding ascent toward Abra Warmiwañusqa, known as Dead Woman’s Pass, the highest point of the trek at approximately 4,215 m / 13,828 ft. As you climb, keep an eye out for hummingbirds and other native bird species that inhabit the surrounding landscape.
The route passes through changing mountain environments, including the remarkable cloud forest at around 3,650 m (11,972 ft). Along this section, you can observe native vegetation and Polylepis trees, locally known as Q’ueuña, which are characteristic of these high-altitude ecosystems.
Reaching the top of Dead Woman’s Pass is a significant accomplishment. After taking a well-earned break and enjoying the panoramic views, we begin the descent toward Pacaymayu (3,550 m / 11,646 ft), where we will stop for lunch.
After lunch, you begin a challenging two-hour ascent toward Runkuraqay Pass (3,950 m / 12,959 ft). After crossing the pass, the trail descends toward the impressive archaeological site of Sayacmarca. You then continue along the trail to Ch’aqui Qqocha, where you will spend the night.
We expect to arrive at camp at approximately 5:00 p.m. Upon arrival, afternoon tea and snacks will be ready for you, giving you time to rest and recover after this challenging day. Nighttime temperatures at the campsite can drop to around 4°C (39°F).
-Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner.
-Accommodation: Camping facilities.
-Distance: 16kms/10miles.
-Hiking Time: Approximately 9 hours.
-Difficulty: Moderate to Challenging.
DAY 3: CH’AQUI QQOCHA - PHUYUPATAMARCA - WIÑAY WAYNA
Itinerary
Day 3 brings some of the most spectacular scenery and archaeological highlights of the entire Inca Trail. Your guide will wake you at approximately 6:00 a.m. with a hot cup of tea or coffee in your tent. After breakfast, we begin the day with a gradual ascent toward Phuyupatamarca, an impressive Inca site whose name means “Village in the Clouds.”
The trail reaches approximately 3,680 m (12,073 ft), where you can enjoy outstanding views of the surrounding mountains, deep valleys, and canyons. Just a few minutes from the third pass, you will reach the extensive archaeological complex of Phuyupatamarca, where you will have time to explore and appreciate its remarkable terraces and stone structures.
After visiting the site, the trail begins a long descent through the cloud forest. Along the way, you will descend approximately 3,000 stone steps before reaching the impressive archaeological site of Intipata. As you lose altitude, the landscape changes noticeably and the warmer temperatures signal your approach to the eastern slopes of the Andes and the edge of the Amazon basin.
We will stop to explore Intipata before continuing toward Wiñay Wayna (2,680 m / 8,792 ft), our third campsite. Today is a shorter hiking day, with approximately 4 to 5 hours of walking, and we expect to reach camp around lunchtime.
After settling in, you can rest and enjoy the surroundings. Just a short walk from the campsite is the renowned Inca archaeological site of Wiñay Wayna, whose name means “Forever Young” in Quechua. The site takes its name from an orchid that grows abundantly in this area. Nighttime temperatures at camp are generally around 12°C (54°F).
-Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner.
-Accommodation: Camping facilities.
-Distance: 10kms/6.2miles.
-Hiking Time: Approximately 5 hours.
-Difficulty: Moderate.
DAY 4: WIÑAY WAYNA - MACHU PICCHU - CUSCO
Itinerary
The final day begins very early. You will wake up at approximately 3:30 a.m. and have breakfast at 4:00 a.m. Afterward, we will wait at the checkpoint for the gates to open at 5:30 a.m., allowing us to begin the final section of the Inca Trail among the first groups of the morning.
We will hike toward the Sun Gate (Inti Punku), reaching it at approximately 6:00 a.m. From here, you will have your first complete view of the magnificent Machu Picchu Citadel, surrounded by the mountains of the sanctuary. If the weather is clear, you may also witness the early morning sunlight illuminating the ruins as the day begins.
From the Sun Gate, we continue downhill toward Machu Picchu, located at approximately 2,400 m (7,872 ft). The walk takes around 40 minutes, leading us to the upper entrance of the citadel through the House of the Guardians, one of the classic viewpoints for photographing Machu Picchu.
At the control point, you will need to leave any large backpacks and walking poles, as only small bags, such as camera bags, are permitted inside. Walking poles are not allowed within the citadel because they can potentially damage the archaeological structures.
Once inside, your guide will lead you on an approximately two-hour guided tour through the main areas of Machu Picchu. You will learn about the history, architecture, and purpose of this extraordinary Inca site, including its three principal sectors: agricultural, residential, and religious.
After the guided visit, you will have some free time to enjoy the views and take photographs. If you have booked the optional Huayna Picchu Mountain hike, please check your entrance ticket for the assigned time. The hike is normally completed independently. If you prefer to have a private guide accompany you, this service can be arranged for an additional fee.
When you are ready to leave Machu Picchu, take the bus down to Aguas Calientes for lunch, which is not included. Depending on your train schedule, you may have additional time to explore the town, shop for souvenirs, visit the museum, or enjoy the hot springs.
Your return journey will be aboard the Expedition Train, departing at either 2:55 p.m. or 3:20 p.m., depending on your assigned train schedule. The train travels toward Ollantaytambo, following the scenic Urubamba River through its narrow canyon. As you approach Aguas Calientes, look up toward the steep mountainsides for a possible view of Wiñay Wayna from the train.
Upon arrival in Ollantaytambo, our driver will be waiting for you outside the train station. You will then continue by private vehicle to Cusco, with an expected arrival at your hotel at approximately 7:00 p.m., marking the end of your 4-Day Inca Trail adventure.
-Meals included: Breakfast.
-Distance: 6kms/3.7miles.
-Difficulty: Easy.
***The Huayna Picchu Mountain Hike depends on availability, so please let us know at the time of booking if you would like to add it.
WHAT IS INCLUDED IN THE 4-DAY INCA TRAIL TO MACHU PICCHU?
INCLUDED:
- Airport transfer to your hotel upon arrival in Cusco.
- Hotel pickup with door-to-door service.
- Private transportation from Cusco to Piscacucho (Km 82).
- 4-person tents shared by two trekkers.
- Professional English-Speaking Guide.
- Foam mattresses and pillows.
- Meals as indicated in the itinerary.
- Vegetarian meals upon request.
- Porter service for up to 7 kg of personal belongings.
- Porters for tents, food, and cooking equipment.
- Boiled drinking water after meals.
- Dining and cooking tents with tables and chairs.
- Chef and cooking equipment.
- Hot water for washing.
- Inca Trail & Machu Picchu Entrance Tickets.
- Bus ticket from Machu Picchu to Aguas Calientes.
- Expedition Tourist Train from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo.
- First-aid kit and emergency oxygen.
- Private transportation from Ollantaytambo to Cusco.
NOT INCLUDED:
- Huayna Picchu Mountain entrance: US$75 per person (optional).
- Last lunch in Aguas Calientes.
- Vistadome train upgrade: US$65 per person (Return Only).
- Optional hotel upgrades.
- Sleeping Bag: US$20 per person for the trek.
- Air Mattress: US$20 per person for the trek (Therm-a-Rest mattress).
- Walking Poles: US$15 per pair for the trek.
- Personal Tent: US$30 per person.
- Tips for staff (optional).
***The visit to Machu Picchu is first carried out with our professional guide. After the guided tour, you can hike up Huayna Picchu Mountain independently. This hike is normally completed on your own. If you would like a guide to accompany you during the ascent, just let us know and we can arrange this with our team for an additional fee.
PRICES & AVAILABILITY
The Classic Inca Trail to Machu Picchu is available most of the year, including during the rainy season. However, the trail is closed every February for annual maintenance and conservation work. Trekking permits are required and should be booked in advance, especially during the high season.
GROUP PRICE
- Only $790 USD per person
PRIVATE PRICE
- 2-3 People: $995 USD per person
- 4-6 People: $895 USD per person
- 7+ People: $790 USD per person
DISCOUNTS
-18 to 25 years old: US$30 discount. To qualify, a valid student ID is required. The card must clearly show the name of the university, the student’s full name, photo, and expiration date. A copy of the student ID must be submitted at the time of booking for government approval.
-Under 18 years old: US$30 discount. Please send us a copy of the child’s passport at the time of booking.
-Under 11 years old: US$40 discount. Please send us a copy of the child’s passport at the time of booking.
IS THE INCA TRAIL SOLD OUT FOR YOUR DATES?
If permits for the Classic Inca Trail to Machu Picchu are sold out for your preferred dates, you still have excellent alternatives to trek through the Andes and reach Machu Picchu.
Options include the Lares Trek, Salkantay Trek, and other alternative routes. These treks offer spectacular landscapes, unique experiences, and generally fewer visitors than the Classic Inca Trail.
WHY CHOOSE CALLANGA FAMILY EXPLORERS?
Because we are a local, family-owned company born in Cusco, with deep roots in the communities of our region. We know and value our land, and we strive to make every travel experience create a positive impact. In addition to offering authentic and responsible travel experiences, we support environmental and social projects that benefit local communities, children, and natural areas. When you travel with Callanga Family Explorers, you are not only discovering Peru-you are also contributing to initiatives that help protect our environment and support local people.
SMALL GROUPS
At Callanga Family Explorers, we believe that smaller groups create more meaningful travel experiences. To ensure personalized service, greater comfort, and a closer connection with our guides, our shared tour groups are limited to a maximum of 10 travelers. This allows us to provide a more flexible, enjoyable, and authentic experience, while giving every guest the attention and care they deserve throughout their journey.
OUR PROFESSIONAL TOUR GUIDES
We are proud of our team of professional tour guides, who are fluent in English and passionate about sharing the rich history, culture, and traditions of the Incas and the Andes. Their knowledge is supported by continuous training and professional development, ensuring that every tour is informative, accurate, and engaging.
Our guides are friendly, approachable, and highly educated. They hold academic degrees in fields such as Archaeology, Tourism, Botany, History, or Anthropology, allowing them to provide insightful explanations and answer your questions with confidence. Their passion and dedication help create memorable experiences for every traveler.
OUR PORTERS
Trekking with Callanga Family Explorers is a special experience, with a fully supported trek where your comfort and safety are our priority. We want you to enjoy your journey in Peru while following ancient Inca trails, discovering impressive archaeological sites, and experiencing the beautiful Andean landscapes.
Our porters will carry your duffel bag of up to 7 kg (15 lbs), assist the chef with meal preparation, set up the tents, and help with the campsite.
All our porters are hired from local communities, providing them with employment opportunities that help improve their economic circumstances and support their families. We are committed to ensuring that our team is treated fairly and respectfully throughout every trek.
OUR SERVICE PROJECTS
We believe travel can also make a positive difference. Through our social and environmental initiatives, we support local communities and children, participate in environmental clean-up campaigns, and help protect and restore natural areas in the Cusco region. These efforts reflect our commitment to responsible tourism and creating a positive impact beyond every journey.
OUR TREKKING EQUIPMENT
Our trekking team and the equipment we provide are an essential part of your experience on the trail. We take care of the details so you can focus on enjoying the journey. The following camping equipment and services are included:
-Our Tents: Spacious 4-season Eureka Timberline tents, designed for four people but used by only two trekkers, giving you plenty of space for personal belongings and your duffel bag. Each tent also has a small vestibule where you can leave your boots and trekking poles.
-Our Foam Mats: Foam sleeping mats are provided to provide insulation and comfort between you and the ground.
-Our Kitchen & Dining Tents: Separate tents are used for cooking and dining, providing a comfortable space to enjoy your meals and relax after hiking.
-Tables & Chairs: The dining tent is equipped with tables and chairs for your comfort during meals and rest periods.
-Duffel Bags: A duffel bag is provided during the pre-trek briefing the evening before your hike.
-Additional Equipment: Pillows, backpack rain covers, souvenir T-shirts, and a biochemical toilet are also provided during the trek.
IMPORTANT INFORMATION
Please take a moment to review the information below. It covers important details about our services and the Classic Inca Trail to Machu Picchu and will help answer many of your questions.
ARRIVAL TO CUSCO
Upon your arrival at Cusco Airport, one of our representatives will warmly welcome you and transfer you to your hotel. Please send us your complete flight details at least 14 days before your trek begins so we can coordinate your airport pickup. At the arrivals terminal exit, simply look for our representative holding a sign with your full name.
PRE-TREK BRIEFING
Your pre-trek briefing will take place at your hotel at 6:00 p.m. on the evening before your 5-Day Classic Inca Trail to Machu Picchu. During this meeting, your guide will review the itinerary, hiking route, daily schedule, and important recommendations for the trek. You will also receive your Machu Picchu entrance ticket, train tickets, and other necessary travel documents.
At the briefing, we will provide you with a duffel bag with a maximum weight of 7 kg (15 lbs) for your personal belongings. Our porters will carry the duffel bag throughout the trek, while you will keep your daypack with you during the hike. Please note that you will only have access to your duffel bag at the campsite, as the porters travel ahead of the group.
The 7 kg allowance includes approximately 2 kg for your sleeping bag and 1 kg for your sleeping pad. Any additional weight must be carried in your daypack. The briefing is also a great opportunity to ask questions and receive final recommendations from your guide before starting your adventure.
CAN I STORE MY LUGGAGE BEFORE THE TREK?
PAYMENT METHODS
To confirm your reservation, we offer two secure payment methods. A 40% deposit of the total tour cost is required to secure your booking.
Payment Link: We accept credit and debit cards. We will send you a secure personalized payment link through Izipay, allowing you to complete your payment quickly and safely.
PayPal: You can make your payment directly to our PayPal account at info@callangafamilyexplorers.com. If you prefer, we can also send you a secure PayPal payment request by email, allowing you to complete your payment safely and conveniently. Your reservation will be confirmed once the required deposit has been received.
Before confirming your reservation and purchasing your Machu Picchu entrance ticket, we require the following information for each participant in your booking:
- Full name (exactly as it appears on your passport)
- Gender
- Passport number
- Date of birth (dd/mm/yyyy)
- Nationality
***Please also send us a clear copy of each participant’s passport at the time of booking.
WHAT ABOUT THE REMAINING BALANCE?
To avoid credit card processing fees, you may pay the remaining balance in cash (US dollars only) during your pre-trek briefing in Cusco. ATMs are widely available throughout Cusco’s Historic Center if you need to withdraw cash. If you prefer, you may also pay the balance online by Visa or PayPal. Please note that a 6% processing fee applies to cover the transaction fees charged by the payment platforms.
CAN I CHANGE MY TRAVEL DATE?
Unfortunately, no. Once your Machu Picchu tickets have been purchased, the Peruvian government does not permit any modifications to the travel date. Tickets are non-transferable and non-refundable.
If you need to make any changes, please contact us as soon as possible. If you decide to cancel your 4-Day Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, the deposit is non-refundable.
DO I NEED MY ORIGINAL PASSPORT?
You must bring your original passport, and it is essential that it matches the passport number provided at the time of booking your 4-Day Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, as well as the information registered for your Inca Trail permit, Machu Picchu entrance ticket, and train reservations.
If you are renewing your passport or changing your name, you may complete your booking using your current passport details. Once you receive your new passport or updated information, we can update your reservation for a US$25 per person administrative fee. Copies of both your old and new passports are required to process the change. Before renewing your passport, please make sure to keep a copy of your current passport.
If you prefer not to pay the update fee, you must travel to Peru with both passports. You may enter Peru using your new passport, but you will need to present both your old and new passports when entering the Inca Trail, boarding the train, and entering Machu Picchu. Without both passports, you will not be permitted to enter the Inca Trail, board the train, or enter Machu Picchu.
ARE TIPS MANDATORY?
No. At Callanga Family Explorers, we believe in rewarding our staff through fair wages and responsible working conditions. Our staff are paid fairly for their professionalism, dedication, and hard work.
If you feel that our team has exceeded your expectations and would like to show your appreciation, tips are always welcome but are never expected or mandatory. Any gratuity is entirely at your discretion and is greatly appreciated as a gesture of thanks for exceptional service.
WHAT ABOUT ALTITUDE SICKNESS?
Most travelers adjust well to the elevation when they allow enough time to acclimatize in Cusco or the Sacred Valley before starting their trek. At 3,400 m (11,155 ft) above sea level, Cusco is already at a significant elevation, so we recommend spending at least 2-3 days acclimatizing before beginning this trek, especially if you are not accustomed to high elevations.
Staying well hydrated, drinking coca tea, and using oxygen when necessary may help manage altitude-related symptoms. Our guides are trained to recognize and respond appropriately to altitude sickness throughout the trek.
WHAT IS THE WEATHER LIKE?
Weather conditions along the trail can change quickly and are not always easy to predict. We recommend dressing in layers, so you can easily adjust your clothing as temperatures and weather conditions change throughout the day.
HOW CHALLENGING IS THE INCA TRAIL?
The Classic Inca Trail is a challenging yet rewarding 44 km (27 miles) trek through the spectacular Andes of the Cusco region. The highest point of the route is Dead Woman’s Pass, which reaches 4,215 m (13,828 ft) above sea level.
The trek includes several steep climbs and descents, with the second day being one of the most demanding sections as you cross two mountain passes. You don’t need to be an experienced hiker, but having a good level of fitness will help you enjoy the trek more comfortably and confidently.
To prepare for the Inca Trail, we recommend staying active in the weeks or months before your trip. Regular walking, hiking, or other forms of exercise can help you build endurance. As part of your preparation, gradually increase your walking distance and aim to be comfortable walking around 15 km (9 miles) in a day.
ARE THERE TOILETS ALONG THE TRAIL?
During the trek, we provide a private portable toilet for our passengers, set up inside a tent specially arranged to provide greater privacy, comfort, and hygiene. The toilet is always placed in a suitable location at a convenient distance from the campsite.
This way, you will have access to a clean and easily accessible toilet throughout the trek, even at night, without having to use the public facilities available along the route.
WHAT IF I AM UNABLE TO COMPLETE THE TREK?
If you are unable to continue the trek due to health reasons, our team will assist you and coordinate your transportation to the nearest town where you can receive the necessary medical attention or support. We also carry oxygen throughout the trek to assist with possible respiratory difficulties.
In emergency situations requiring special evacuation, a helicopter transfer can also be arranged. The cost of this service must be covered by the passenger. For this reason, we strongly recommend having travel insurance that includes coverage for trekking activities and emergency evacuation.
If you are unable to complete the trek, no refunds will be provided for unused services.
If you need to leave the trail before completing the trek, your transportation will normally be arranged to Ollantaytambo. If your condition improves and you are able to continue your journey, you can then travel to Aguas Calientes and visit Machu Picchu according to your original itinerary. Any additional transportation costs incurred in this situation will be the passenger’s responsibility.
PACKING CHECKLIST FOR YOUR 4-DAY INCA TRAIL TREK
WHAT TO BRING WITH YOU
– Original passport.
– Valid student card (if booked as a student).
– Lightweight daypack.
– Comfortable hiking boots with ankle support.
WHAT TO PACK IN YOUR DUFFEL BAG
Your duffel bag will be prepared during the pre-trek briefing and transported by our support team throughout the trek. Pack only the essentials you will need during the hiking days, keeping your belongings organized and easy to access. Below is our recommended list of items to pack:
– 2 T-shirts.
– At least 2 pairs of hiking pants.
– 4 sets of underwear.
– 3 pairs of hiking socks.
– Fleece or thermal layers.
– Warm clothes and a down jacket.
– Waterproof gloves or ski gloves.
– Comfortable shoes for the campsite.
– Quick-dry towel – we provide a small one, but you may prefer to bring a larger towel.
– Small bottle of soap – warm water is provided each day for washing.
– Portable battery charger – there is no electricity along the trail.
– Large plastic bags provided by us.
– Sleeping bag rated to at least –15°C.
TOILETRIES
– Moisturizer.
– Wet wipes.
– Toothbrush and toothpaste.
WHAT TO PACK IN YOUR DAYPACK
We recommend a small 30-40 L backpack for your daily hikes. Larger backpacks are not permitted inside Machu Picchu. The rest of your belongings will stay in your duffel bag at camp.
– Water storage: 2–3 L (hydration bladder recommended).
– Sun hat and sunglasses.
– Sunscreen.
– Insect repellent.
– Headlamp.
– Warm hat and gloves.
– Rain jacket (especially during the rainy season).
– Fleece or warm layer.
– Snacks such as chocolate, cereal bars, or dried fruit.
– Personal medication and basic first-aid supplies.
– Camera.
– Hand sanitizer.
– Toilet paper and a small bag for waste.
– Valuables.