Inca Trail to Machu Picchu 4D/3N from Cusco

Inca Trail to Machu Picchu with tents, food, guide and entrance fees

Price
$720

Inca Trail to Machu Picchu 4D/3N from Cusco

Rating: 5 | 18302 Reviews
Inca Trail to Machu Picchu with tents, food, guide and entrance fees

The Inca Trail 4 days 3 nights is the most famous trek in South America and consistently ranked among the world’s top three hikes. Covering 26 miles (43 km), this legendary trail blends breathtaking Andean peaks, lush cloud forest, and subtropical jungle with ancient Inca paving stones, tunnels, and ruins. Along the way, you’ll pass highlights like Wiñay Wayna, an elegant archaeological complex built on steep terraces that sets the tone for the final approach to Machu Picchu. The trail culminates in a once-in-a-lifetime entrance through the Sun Gate at Circuit 1C Intipunku, the very same route the Incas intended as their sacred pilgrimage. From there, Machu Picchu unfolds dramatically before your eyes. Finally, you’ll reach the Upper Terraces at Circuit 1B, the most iconic panoramic viewpoint of the citadel. Many travelers describe the energy felt here as extraordinary, a mix of tranquility, inner peace, and even the sensation of a supernatural phenomenon. This is what makes the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu a journey unlike any other on Earth.

Make Reservation

Tour Photos

Price

Price of the Incatrail 4-days 3-nights to the Historic Sanctuary of Machu Picchu is 720 USD per person

What Is Included?

Included — Inca Trail 4 Days 3 Nights (Machu Picchu)

Inca Trail briefing at your hotel in Cusco the night before the trek
Pick up from your Cusco hotel and private transport to the trailhead
Transportation to the official Inca Trail trek starting point at KM 82
Entrance permit for the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, which also grants access to Wiñay Wayna, one of the most beautiful archaeological sites on the route
Entrance ticket to Machu Picchu, including access to Circuit 1C Sun Gate (Intipunku) and Circuit 1B Upper Terrace for panoramic views
Bus ticket down from Machu Picchu to Aguas Calientes — Official bus tickets
Return train ticket (Day 4) Aguas Calientes → Ollantaytambo — Official train tickets
Ground transport (Day 4) Ollantaytambo → Cusco main plaza
Professional, licensed tour guide for the Inca Trail and Machu Picchu
Professional cooks with full camping & cooking equipment
Well-treated local porters (ethical porter policy)
Porter service to carry tents, food, and cooking gear (not personal baggage)
Meals: 3 nutritious breakfasts, 3 high-energy lunches, 3 delicious dinners, and 3 afternoon tea times
Vegetarian / special diets available upon request
Trail snacks for sustained energy during the hike
Clean, spacious tents (4-person capacity, only 2 trekkers per tent for comfort)
Comfortable personal foam sleeping pad (double foam) provided at trek start
Emergency oxygen available if needed
First-aid kit carried by your guide
All porter & staff logistics covered: accommodation, meals, transport, and permits for porters and cooks

These inclusions are tailored for the Inca Trail 4D/3N package to Machu Picchu, ensuring a safe, well-catered, and fully guided trekking experience from Cusco to the citadel.

What is not included?

Not Included — Inca Trail 4 Days 3 Nights (Machu Picchu)

Breakfast on Day 1 (most hotels in Cusco provide an early boxed option; arrange directly with your property)
Sleeping bags (available to rent: $20 for the full 4 days / 3 nights Inca Trail)
Trekking poles / walking sticks (available to rent: $20 for the 4-day trek; rubber tips required to protect Inca Trail stonework)
Tips / gratuities for your Inca Trail guide, cook, and porters (customary but optional)
Personal porter for your gear (optional add-on: $150 for up to 7 kg to carry your sleeping bag, pad, and personal items)
Additional Machu Picchu circuits on Day 4 (recommended below for the best Machu Picchu experience)

Highly Recommended Add-Ons for Day 4 (Post-Trek)

Huayna Picchu Circuit 3A (9:00 AM) — For iconic views and a thrilling summit after the trek, we recommend booking Huayna Picchu 3A tickets specifically for the 9:00 AM timeslot on Day 4. This timing pairs perfectly with recovery after the Inca Trail 4D/3N. Why it’s needed: the Inca Trail permit does not include Circuit 3 (the lower section of Machu Picchu where most of the Inca ruins are located), so purchasing a separate entry ensures a complete site visit.

Machu Picchu Circuit 3B (after 10:00 AM) — For a comprehensive exploration of the lower terraces and principal ruins, we recommend booking Circuit 3B tickets for a start time after 10:00 AM on Day 4. Reserve this as soon as we send your Inca Trail permit, because availability is limited. Reason: your Inca Trail permit does not include Circuit 3 access.

Machu Picchu Circuit 2 (2A or 2B) — For a well-rounded, panoramic circuit, we also recommend: Circuit 2A or Circuit 2B. These must be booked for entry after 10:00 AM on Day 4. Why add this: the Inca Trail permit does not include Circuit 3, so combining your trek with Circuit 2 ensures the most complete Machu Picchu experience.

If Tickets Are Sold Out

If Huayna Picchu 3A, Circuit 3B, or Circuit 2A/2B tickets are sold out for your travel dates, don’t worry. Simply book a hotel in Aguas Calientes for the night of Day 4 and take advantage of our last-minute tickets available locally:

In this case, we will automatically adjust your return train to come back on Day 5, giving you the extra night in Aguas Calientes to enjoy your last-minute Machu Picchu entry. This way, even if advance tickets are unavailable, your Inca Trail 4D/3N package still guarantees the full Machu Picchu experience.

Disclaimer: The extra hotel night in Aguas Calientes is not included in the package price and must be arranged separately. We are happy to assist with booking upon request.

Itinerary

Inca Trail 4D/3N Itinerary

Day 1: Cusco – KM 82 – Wayllabamba

Your Inca Trail 4D/3N trek begins with an early transfer from Cusco to KM 82, the official trailhead. After crossing the Urubamba River, you hike through small Andean communities and fertile valleys before reaching your first campsite at Wayllabamba. Along the way, your licensed guide introduces you to the sacred history of this pilgrimage route to Machu Picchu.

Day 2: Wayllabamba – Dead Woman’s Pass – Pacaymayo

The most challenging day of the Inca Trail 4 days 3 nights. The trail climbs steadily through cloud forest and puna grasslands up to Warmiwañusca (Dead Woman’s Pass), the trek’s highest point at 4,200m (13,780 ft). From here, descend into the Pacaymayo valley where you’ll camp for the night. This strenuous ascent rewards you with sweeping mountain views and a true sense of achievement.

Day 3: Pacaymayo – Runkurakay – Sayacmarca – Wiñay Wayna / Phuyupatamarca

Today you pass multiple Inca archaeological sites including Runkurakay, Sayacmarca, and often Phuyupatamarca. Depending on campsite availability, trekkers may continue further downhill to camp at Wiñay Wayna, a spectacular terraced complex with ritual fountains and panoramic views. If you camp at Phuyupatamarca instead, Wiñay Wayna will be visited the following morning before reaching Machu Picchu. Either way, this day highlights the architectural genius of the Incas and offers some of the most scenic moments of the Inca Trail 4D/3N trek.

Day 4: Wiñay Wayna / Phuyupatamarca – Sun Gate – Machu Picchu

An early pre-dawn start brings you to the Sun Gate (Circuit 1C Intipunku), the dramatic entrance to Machu Picchu. This is the same sacred approach the Incas used, and the first glimpse of the citadel at sunrise is unforgettable. After entering, your guide leads you to the iconic Upper Terraces (Circuit 1B) where you’ll capture the world-famous panoramic view of the ruins surrounded by Andean peaks.

This Inca Trail 4D/3N itinerary may vary slightly depending on campsite availability, but always includes highlights like Wiñay Wayna, the Sun Gate (1C), and the Upper Terraces (1B). With limited daily permits, booking your Inca Trail permit early is essential to secure your place on this legendary trek to Machu Picchu.

What to bring

What to Bring — Inca Trail 4 Days 3 Nights (Essential Packing List)

Original Passport (mandatory for Inca Trail permits and Machu Picchu entry)
Medium-sized backpack (25–30L; enough for daily essentials but not too heavy)
Small day pack (for essentials inside Machu Picchu)
Reusable water bottle or hydration bladder (minimum 1.5–2 liters; staying hydrated is essential on the Inca Trail)
Rain jacket or poncho (lightweight, waterproof; weather on the trail can change quickly)
Layered clothing (light t-shirts, fleece, breathable long sleeves; cold mornings and hot midday sun)
Trekking footwear (comfortable, broken-in hiking boots with good grip; avoid new shoes)
Comfortable trekking trousers (quick-dry, lightweight; convertible pants recommended)
Warm jacket / thermal clothing (essential for chilly nights in the Andes)
Sun hat or cap (for protection against high-altitude sun)
Sunglasses (UV protection is crucial at high altitudes)
High SPF sunblock (minimum SPF 50 recommended)
Insect repellent (especially for mosquitoes near Wiñay Wayna and Aguas Calientes)
Personal medication (plus blister plasters, altitude tablets if needed)
Basic toiletries (toothbrush, toothpaste, biodegradable soap, hand sanitizer, wet wipes)
Lightweight snacks (energy bars, chocolate, nuts, or candy — Machu Picchu does not allow food, so consume discreetly)
Cash in Peruvian Soles (for tips, snacks, souvenirs; small bills preferred)
Camera or smartphone (to capture stunning Inca Trail and Machu Picchu views; extra memory cards recommended)
Portable power bank (charging opportunities are limited during the trek)
Headlamp or flashlight (with spare batteries; useful for early starts and nights at camp)
Lightweight sandals or camp shoes (to rest feet after hiking boots)
Trekking poles (highly recommended for steep descents; rubber tips required, rentals available in Cusco)
Plastic or reusable bags (for organizing clothes and keeping gear dry in case of rain)

Packing smart for the Inca Trail 4D/3N trek to Machu Picchu ensures safety, comfort, and the best experience possible. We recommend traveling light, bringing only essentials, and making sure all gear is weather-appropriate for the Andes.

Fitness Requirements

Fitness & Preparation for the Inca Trail 4D/3N

The Inca Trail 4D/3N to Machu Picchu is considered a moderate difficulty trek, suitable for travelers with a reasonable level of fitness. The route includes several uphill sections, steep stone staircases, and high-altitude passes, with the maximum elevation reaching approximately 4,200 meters (13,780 ft) at Dead Woman’s Pass. While the trek is achievable for most people, being physically prepared will greatly enhance your experience.

To get the most out of your Inca Trail 4 days 3 nights trek, we strongly recommend spending at least 2 full days in Cusco or the Sacred Valley before starting the hike. This time allows your body to acclimatize to the altitude, reducing the risk of altitude sickness and ensuring you feel stronger during the ascent. If you are arriving directly from sea level, this acclimatization period is especially important.

No specialist mountaineering experience is required, but regular exercise before your trip—such as hiking, jogging, or climbing stairs with a backpack—will help you prepare for the long trekking days. Staying well hydrated, eating light but nutritious meals, and getting good sleep in Cusco before the start of the Inca Trail 4D/3N tour will also contribute to a successful and enjoyable experience.

Recommended Fitness Training Plan for the Inca Trail 4D/3N

Cardio training: Running, jogging, cycling, or swimming at least 3 times a week to build endurance for the long hiking days on the Inca Trail.
Hiking practice: Take weekend hikes with gradual elevation gain, ideally carrying a backpack similar to what you’ll use on the Inca Trail 4D/3N.
Stair climbing: Practice climbing stairs or hills with weight in your pack to simulate the steep Inca stone steps leading to Machu Picchu.
Strength training: Focus on leg strength (squats, lunges, step-ups) and core stability to handle the rugged terrain of the Inca Trail trek.
Flexibility & balance: Incorporate yoga or stretching routines to reduce muscle stiffness and improve balance on uneven paths.
Altitude preparation: If possible, train at higher elevations or use a stair climber with resistance to mimic the demands of trekking up to 4,200m on the Inca Trail 4 days 3 nights.
Backpack training: Gradually increase the weight of your pack (start with 5 kg and work up to 7–8 kg) to get used to carrying your essentials during the hike.

With the right preparation, the Inca Trail 4D/3N to Machu Picchu becomes not just a trek, but a once-in-a-lifetime adventure through ancient Inca pathways, breathtaking mountain passes, and unforgettable archaeological sites.

Availability

Availability of the Inca Trail 4D/3N

The Inca Trail 4D/3N to Machu Picchu is open year-round except during February, when the trail is closed for maintenance and conservation. This annual closure allows the Inca stone paths and campsites to be preserved and prepared for the thousands of trekkers who arrive every year.

The best time to hike the Inca Trail 4 days 3 nights is between April and October, when the weather is drier and more stable. These months provide clear skies, excellent trekking conditions, and breathtaking views of the Andes and Machu Picchu.

June, July, and August are considered peak season. The Inca Trail permits for these months often sell out many months in advance, so it is essential to book your Inca Trail 4D/3N reservation early to guarantee your spot. Trekkers from all over the world plan their trips during these dates, making them the busiest but also the most vibrant time of year on the trail.

January and March fall in the wet season. Hiking the Inca Trail 4D/3N during this time can be more challenging due to rain and slippery conditions. If you choose to trek in these months, ensure you bring a high-quality rain jacket, waterproof trekking shoes, and waterproof protection for your gear to keep belongings dry.

Tips for Booking the Inca Trail 4D/3N

Book well in advance: Permits are limited to 500 per day (including guides and porters) and sell out quickly, especially from May to August.
Flexible dates help: If your preferred dates are sold out, consider nearby months like April, September, or October for excellent trekking conditions.
Consider shoulder season: April, May, September, and October offer fewer crowds but still great weather for the Inca Trail trek.
Plan around the closure: Remember that February is completely closed, so plan your Inca Trail 4D/3N itinerary accordingly.

By planning ahead and booking your Inca Trail 4D/3N to Machu Picchu early, you can secure your permit and enjoy one of the most iconic treks in the world under the best possible conditions.

Terms & Conditions

• The Inca Trail to Machu Picchu tour is non-transferable, and the participant cannot change the date of departure without incurring cancellation fees
• All reservations must be canceled in writing and are subject to a cancellation fee.
• If you cancel or change the date of your tour with 10+ days of advanced notice, you will incur a $500 dollar cancelation fee per person.
• If you cancel with less than 10 days of advanced notice, you will incur a cancelation fee of 100% of the total tour cost
• If during the length of the program, a traveler abandons the excursion due to altitude, health, or for any other reason, no reimbursement will be made and no claim accepted.
• You agree to cover all expenses made by you due to abandonment of the tour such as meals, hotel, return transportation, medical expenses, etc.
• It is compulsory that all clients have personal travel insurance. This insurance must cover personal accidents, medical expenses, loss of property and all other expenses which might arise as a result of loss, damage or injury occurring to the client.
• Certain Services might be interrupted or even canceled due to weather conditions, natural disasters or other disturbances such as civil unrest, worker strikes, etc. In the case the tour is canceled for your safety, we will work with the appropriate suppliers to obtain a refund only when those suppliers agree to do so.