Inca Trail to Machu Picchu 4 Days
Inca Trail Itinerary 4 days
Day 1: Cusco – Wayllabamba
- Departure from Cusco to km 82, the starting point of the Inca Trail.
- Easy hike with views of the snow-capped La Verónica and the Vilcanota River.
- Visit the archaeological complex of Llactapata.
- Lunch and continue to the campsite in Wayllabamba.
- Dinner and rest under the stars.
Day 2: Warmiwañusca – Pacaymayu – Chaquicocha
- Breakfast and ascent to Warmiwañusca Pass (4,200 m), the highest point.
- Descent to Pacaymayu for lunch.
- Continue to the campsite in Chaquicocha.
- Dinner and rest after the most challenging day.
Day 3: Chaquicocha – Phuyupatamarca – Wiñaywayna
- Hike through archaeological sites such as Runkurakay, Sayacmarca, and
- Phuyupatamarca.
Enjoy stunning views and explore the ancient ruins. - Arrival at the campsite in Wiñaywayna, two hours from Machu Picchu.
- Dinner and rest.
Day 4: Wiñayhuayna – Machu Picchu – Cusco
- Early breakfast and hike to the Sun Gate (Inti Punku).
- First views of Machu Picchu as the sun rises.
- Guided tour of the Machu Picchu citadel.
- Descent by bus to Aguas Calientes.
- Return by Vistadome train to Cusco and transfer to your hotel.
Complete Itinerary
Embark on an epic 4-day journey on the Inca Trail towards the majestic Machu Picchu. Discover history, nature, and culture on this once-in-a-lifetime trip.
Day 1: Cusco - Wayllabamba
Early in the morning, we'll pick you up from your hotel and drive to kilometer 82, where we'll arrive around 11:00 am to start the hike. This first day is beautiful, and the initial kilometers are easy to walk. We'll have a stunning view of the Veronica snow-capped mountain and will walk along the Vilcanota River until we reach the archaeological complex of Llactapata, where we'll have lunch before continuing to our first campsite in Wayllabamba, where we'll spend the night after a restorative dinner.
Day 2: Wayllabamba - Warmiwañusca - Pacaymayo (B)(L)(D)
After breakfast, we start the most challenging part of the hike, but it's not impossible. We'll walk towards the highest point of the Inca Trail, where you'll have an incredible panoramic view of the area and observe the different types of microclimates that exist in the region. After about 3 hours of walking, we'll pass the pass called Warmiwañiusca or Dead Woman's Pass, which is about 4,200 meters above sea level. Here, you'll feel a huge satisfaction for having reached the highest point of the entire Inca Trail. After this fabulous experience, we'll have lunch and then continue descending to Pacaymayo, where we'll have dinner and spend the night.
Day 3: Pacaymayo - Phuyupatamarca - Wiñay Wayna (B)(L)(D)
Chaquicocha – Phuyupatamarca – Wiñaywayna (10km, 6hrs): This day is the most enchanting and peaceful, with a mere 6-hour hike through various ecological zones. During the journey, you will explore archaeological sites such as Phuyupatamarca, Intipata, and Wiñaywayna, located at 2600 m (8530 feet). The campsite is situated just 2 hours from Machu Picchu.
Día 4: Exploración de Machu Picchu
Wiñaywayna – Machu Picchu – Cusco (6km, 2 hrs): You will wake up early and walk for 2 hours to Inti Punku, where you will have the opportunity to witness the first and most breathtaking view of Machu Picchu. After touring Machu Picchu, you will board the Panoramic Vistadome train back and be transferred to your hotel around 7:30 pm.
Includes:
- Expedition Train excursion to Machu Picchu
- Guide service in shared service in Spanish or English.
- All entrance tickets to the places to visit
- All transfers
- 24/7 permanent assistance,
Not Include:
- Other services not mentioned
- Travel insurance
- Tips.
Recommendations:
- Sunscreen.
- Sunglasses.
- Water bottle.
- Extra money.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best time to do the Inca Trail?
The best time is during the dry season, between May and September, when weather conditions are more stable and views are clearer.
How many kilometers are walked each day?
The total distance is 42 km. On the first day, approximately 12 km are walked; on the second day, 11 km; on the third day, 10 km; and on the fourth day, about 9 km to reach Machu Picchu.
Is it necessary to book in advance?
Yes, it is advisable to book several months in advance, as spots for the Inca Trail are limited due to regulations from the Peruvian government.
Do I need a guide to do the Inca Trail?
Yes, it is mandatory to have an authorized tour guide to hike the Inca Trail. Since 2001, the Peruvian government implemented strict regulations to protect this historic route and regulate visitor access. This regulation establishes that you cannot do the Inca Trail on your own, that is, you cannot enter without being part of a group guided by an official agency registered with the Ministry of Culture.
