Experience the absolute pinnacle of South American exploration. Walk the ancient stone paths of the Inca emperors, conquer breathtaking Andean mountain passes, and step through the Sun Gate at dawn to witness Machu Picchu. Permits strictly limited to 500 per day—secure your once-in-a-lifetime journey today.

There are countless ways to reach the wonders of Peru, but the most legendary, exclusive, and transformative path is on foot. Welcome to the premier Classic Inca Trail to Machu Picchu (4 Days & 3 Nights)—widely regarded not just as the best trek in South America, but as one of the most iconic hiking experiences on the planet.

For adventurers, families bonding over a shared challenge, and couples seeking the ultimate romantic expedition, our Inca Trail tours offer more than just a vacation. They offer a pilgrimage. You will hike through diverse ecosystems, from high-altitude alpine tundras to lush, orchid-filled cloud forests, discovering hidden archaeological sites that are completely inaccessible to train travelers.

Are you ready to leave the modern world behind, test your limits, and reap the greatest reward the Andes has to offer?

The Exclusivity Factor: Why You Must Book Your Inca Trail Tour Today

(Scarcity & Urgency Trigger)

Unlike any other trek in the world, the Peruvian government strictly regulates the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu to preserve its historical integrity. Only 500 people are permitted on the trail each day.

Crucially, this number includes all guides, chefs, and our dedicated porters. This means only about 200 permits per day are available for tourists globally. For the high season (May to September), permits routinely sell out 6 to 8 months in advance. Once they are gone, they are gone—there is no waitlist. Do not leave your bucket-list dream to chance. Book early, secure your permit, and guarantee your spot on the mountain.

Tailored for Your Travel Style: Who Are Our Inca Trail Tours For?

We believe that walking the sacred path of the Incas should be accessible, safe, and profoundly moving for every type of traveler.

For the Thrill-Seeking Adventurer: If you crave a physical challenge, conquering the infamous Dead Woman’s Pass at 4,215 m (13,829 ft) will test your endurance and reward you with unparalleled panoramic views of the Vilcabamba mountain range.
For Families & Friends: Disconnect from screens and reconnect with each other. Sharing the triumph of reaching Machu Picchu creates lifelong bonds. Our expert guides manage the pace flawlessly, ensuring the safety and engagement of every group member.
For Couples & Honeymooners: Looking for an intimate, unforgettable experience? Upgrade to our Inca Trail Private Service. Enjoy your own secluded pace, romantic meals under the Milky Way, private dining tents, and a dedicated team focused entirely on making your anniversary or honeymoon perfect.

Trek Overview: What to Expect on Your Journey

Before diving into the day-by-day magic, here is a quick snapshot of your upcoming adventure:

Gourmet Meals: 4 Breakfasts, 3 Lunches, 3 Dinners—customized to your dietary needs.

Duration: 4 Days & 3 Nights

Accommodation: 3 Nights in high-quality, spacious mountain campsites.

Walking Distance: 44 km / 27.3 miles of original Inca stone paths.

Max. Altitude: 4,215 m / 13,829 ft (Warmi Wañusca / Dead Woman’s Pass).

Difficulty: Moderate to Challenging (Requires a reasonable level of physical fitness and acclimatization).

Group Size: Small, intimate groups of up to 16 people (or completely exclusive with our Private Service).

Itinerary: The Ultimate Inca Trail to Machu Picchu Tours

Highlight of the day: Crossing the Urubamba River, entering the national park, and discovering the magnificent ruins of Llactapata.

Walking Distance: 14 km / 8.7 mi
Walking Time: 6 to 7 hours
Starting Elevation: 2,700 m / 8,858 ft
Campsite Elevation: 3,300 m / 10,827 ft
Difficulty: Moderate

Your unforgettable Inca Trail to Machu Picchu begins before dawn. Between 4:30 and 5:00 a.m., our private transport will collect you directly from your Cusco hotel. As the city sleeps, we drive through the mythical Sacred Valley of the Incas toward Ollantaytambo, where a hearty, energy-boosting breakfast awaits.

From there, we continue to Piscacucho, famously known as KM 82—the official starting point of the trek. Here, the excitement is palpable. You will meet your dedicated trekking family: our expert guides, the talented mountain chef, and our incredible team of porters. After presenting your original passport at the official control point, you will cross a suspension bridge over the rushing Urubamba River. You are now officially walking in the footsteps of the Incas.

The first couple of hours serve as a perfect warm-up. The trail is relatively flat, allowing your body to adapt to the rhythm of trekking at altitude. Soon, you will be rewarded with spectacular views of the snow-capped La Veronica glacier. We will stop at the viewpoint of Canabamba before arriving at the astonishing archaeological site of Llactapata. Seeing this massive, terraced Inca city peeking out from the lush vegetation is a breathtaking introduction to Inca engineering.

After a gourmet, multi-course lunch prepared in our dining tent at Tarayoc, we push forward for another three and a half hours, steadily ascending through local Andean communities. By 5:00 p.m., we reach our first exclusive campsite at Ayapata. Your tent will already be set up. Take off your boots, wash up with the provided warm water, and join your group for a well-deserved “Happy Hour” with hot drinks and snacks before a magnificent dinner under the stars.

Highlight of the day: Achieving the summit of the trek’s highest peak and the overwhelming sense of triumph.

Walking Distance: 16 km / 9.94 mi
Walking Time: 8 to 9 hours
Highest Elevation: 4,215 m / 13,829 ft (Dead Woman’s Pass)
Campsite Elevation: 3,600 m / 11,811 ft
Difficulty: Challenging

Prepare yourself. Today is the most physically demanding, yet deeply rewarding, day of all Inca Trail tours. We will wake you up gently in your tent with a steaming cup of traditional coca tea—an ancient Andean remedy perfect for invigorating the body and warding off altitude sickness.

After a massive, nutrient-dense breakfast, the ascent begins. We hike uphill for roughly four hours through dense, mystical forests of unca trees, gradually giving way to the stark, beautiful alpine tundra known as the puna. Your destination is Warmi Wañusca, or “Dead Woman’s Pass”, named for the mountain’s silhouette resembling a reclining woman.

Reaching the summit at 4,215 m (13,829 ft) is an emotional moment. The physical challenge melts away as you are greeted by sweeping, 360-degree views of the immense Andes mountains. Take a moment here to breathe the crisp, thin air and feel the spirit of the ancient Incas. We celebrate as a group, take incredible photos, and then begin an hour-and-a-half descent into the Pacaymayu valley for a revitalizing lunch.

But the day isn’t over. We ascend again for 45 minutes to the circular Inca watchtower of Runkurakay, featuring impressive waterfalls on the mountain slopes. We push to the second pass (Runkurakay Pass), where we traditionally perform a small ceremony, leaving an offering of coca leaves to Pachamama (Mother Earth).

As afternoon turns to early evening, we descend into the beginning of the cloud forest to explore the cliffside ruins of Sayaqmarka. Watching the setting sun cast a crimson glow over the Vilcabamba mountain range from this inaccessible fortress is pure magic. We finally arrive at our campsite, Chaquiqocha. Far from any light pollution, our guides will point out the Inca constellations in the astonishingly clear night sky.

Highlight of the day: Exploring Wiñay Wayna, the most stunning archaeological site on the trail, and celebrating with your trekking family.

Walking Distance: 9 km / 5.6 mi
Walking Time: 4 to 5 hours
Highest Elevation: 3,650 m / 11,975 ft
Campsite Elevation: 2,650 m / 8,694 ft
Difficulty: Moderate

If Day 2 was about endurance, Day 3 is about unadulterated beauty. With the hardest climbs behind you, you can fully relax and absorb the changing environment. Today, you enter the high jungle canopy. The air becomes warmer and thicker, orchids bloom brightly along the ancient stone paths, and colorful tropical birds fill the air with song.

After an hour and a half of gentle hiking, gazing back at the majestic Salkantay glacier, we ascend slightly to Phuyupatamarka (3,650 m / 11,975 ft). Appropriately named the “Town in the Clouds,” this mystical site offers a panoramic lookout over the Sacred Valley, with the Urubamba River snaking below.

From here, we begin a massive descent via a massive set of original Inca stone stairs. We arrive at Intipata, a colossal complex of agricultural terraces built into the steep mountainside. Shortly after, we reach our final campsite, located just minutes from the magnificent Wiñay Wayna.

Translated from Quechua as “Forever Young,” Wiñay Wayna is considered by many to be the most beautiful site on the entire route, second only to Machu Picchu. Because today’s hike is shorter, you will have ample time in the afternoon for an in-depth guided exploration of these intricate ruins, water baths, and houses.

Back at camp, it is time for a celebration. We host a heartfelt farewell dinner where you can toast with your fellow trekkers. This is also the traditional moment to express gratitude to the true backbone of the Andes—our incredible porters and chefs—before we head to bed early in preparation for the grand finale.

Highlight of the day: The emotional, tear-inducing first glimpse of Machu Picchu from the Sun Gate at dawn.

Walking Distance: 5 km / 3.1 mi
Walking Time: 2 to 3 hours
Sun Gate Elevation: 2,720 m / 8,924 ft
Machu Picchu Elevation: 2,430 m / 7,972 ft
Difficulty: Moderate

The day you have been dreaming of is finally here. Wake up is at 3:30 a.m. Adrenaline completely replaces any lingering fatigue. Armed with headlamps and boxed breakfasts provided by our chef, we wait at the final National Park checkpoint. As soon as the gates open, we hike the final, undulating trail through the lush jungle toward Inti Punku—the Sun Gate.

As the sky begins to turn purple and gold, you step through the ancient stone gateway. Suddenly, the jungle parts, and there it is: Machu Picchu. Seeing the lost city of the Incas reveal itself beneath you in the early morning light is an exclusive privilege granted only to those who hike the Inca Trail. It is a moment of profound awe, triumph, and deep spiritual connection.

We descend directly into the citadel, beating the crowds arriving by train. Your expert guide will lead a comprehensive 1.5-hour tour through the heart of the sanctuary. You will explore the intricate stonework of the Temple of the Sun, marvel at the astronomical precision of the Intihuatana, and learn how this architectural masterpiece was built in perfect harmony with nature.

After the guided tour, the time is yours. If you have pre-booked tickets, you can challenge yourself to climb Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain for a spectacular bird’s-eye view. Eventually, we take the bus down to the vibrant town of Aguas Calientes for a celebratory lunch.

In the afternoon, you will board the scenic train (Expedition or Voyager) back to Ollantaytambo, where our private transport will be waiting to whisk you back to your hotel in Cusco. You will return physically tired, but your soul will be forever enriched.

Tour Prices for 2027 Season

Our pricing structures are fully transparent, with fixed rates locked in for the entire 2026 operating season. Book with absolute confidence knowing your investment directly funds fair wages for our indigenous porters, eco-friendly field operations, and top-tier equipment maintenance.

Prices 2027
FAQs

Service Type	Price Per Person
Group Service	$790
Private (2 Pax)	$900
Private (4+ Pax)	$790

How do I get the permit?

We purchase your permit for you. At the time we confirm your participation on this Machu Picchu trip, we register your complete name and your passport number (as these appear on your trip application) with park authorities on the official trek permit. The trek permit is a legal document with specific restrictions limiting changes. You must bring this same passport with you on the trek. If for whatever reason you cannot bring the passport that is registered on the permit at the time of your original booking, or if you change your passport and cannot bring the original document, or if the information you originally supplied differs from what actually appears on your passport, park authorities may refuse access to the Inca Trail.

How far in advance should I book?

The required permits to trek on the Inca Trail are limited to 500 people per day. This includes all guides, porters, cooks & support staff, which leaves about 250 available for trekkers. Permits sell out very fast, 5 to 6 months prior to departure during the busy season (Apr-Sep), and otherwise 4 months in advance. We suggest you book the trip as far in advance as possible to secure your permits, as soon as you are certain of your travel plans.

If permits are sold out, can I get onto a wait-list?

No, there are no waitlists, cancellation policies, etc. Once permits are sold out, that’s it. No person, no company worldwide will have permits; travel companies are not able to block or hold space, nor can you show up at the gate and purchase a permit. All permits are sold on a first-come/first-served basis, are non-negotiable, non-transferable, non-refundable.

However, we have several wonderful alternate treks available that do not require permits. Please consiider one of these as an alternative. You still go to Machu Picchu, and routes are much less-traveled than the Inca Trail. Our past travelers have loved these treks! (See paragraph below, “If permits are sold out, what options are there?)

What is included in the trek?

We include indicated meals, transport by train and bus, porterage of up to 6 kg personal gear, communal camp gear including tables and camp chairs, dining tent, spacious sleeping tents, Thermarest sleeping pad, water filter and other amenities.

What is not included?

Personal trekking gear and sleeping bag; tips to guide and trek staff; city services; air Lima/Cuzco/Lima ($110-$350) depending on time of year and fares at the time of booking.

Must I bring my own sleeping bag and pad or can I rent from you?

You can bring your own sleeping bag if you like, or you can rent one from us for $20. Rental sleeping bags should be requested well in advance of your departure, and preferably at the time you confirm your trek with us. If you are taller than 6 feet, please request an extra-long bag. We supply Thermarest sleeping pads on all our treks at no extra cost.

I’m a single traveler. Do you charge a single supplement?

If you are traveling alone and are willing to share a tent, we will pair you with another trekker of the same gender and you pay no supplementary charge. If you prefer a tent to yourself, the surcharge is US$45.

How do I prepare for the high altitude?

So that you have sufficient time to acclimate prior to starting the Machu Picchu tour, we strongly recommend that you arrive in Cuzco or similar elevation for a minimum of two days prior to the trek. This is a 45-km/28-mile trek with a maximum elevation close to 4,200 m/14,000 ft.

If permits are sold out, what options are there?

We offer several other treks (which either include visiting Machu Picchu or we can add it on) such as our Moonstone to Machu Picchu Trek, Ausangate Trek, Salcantay Trek, Inca Jungle Trek, and others. These are wonderful off-the-beaten-track trekking routes in remote beautiful Andes mountains. On our Moonstone to Machu Picchu Trek (5 days, weekly Sunday departures May-Oct) you arrive at Machu Picchu via the Train from Ollantaytambo in the Sacred Valley of the Incas. It’s a wonderful alternate trek, with no permits required. Please look on the website at our other Peru treks for details.

**Please note that the prices listed above are only applicable for 2027. Rates vary depending on departure dates. Speak with one of our Travel Advisors for a free quotation and further information.

Included

Personal Porter for items weighing up to 7 kilos
Professional English Speaking Tour Guide.
Assistant Tour Guide for groups of 9+
Porters to carry cooking and camping equipment.
Pick-up from your hotel
Return transportation by train and bus to Cusco
3 Breakfasts, 3 Lunches, 3 Afternoon Snacks and 3 Dinners. If you have a dietary request such as vegetarian food please let us know.
Dining tent with tables and chairs
4 man tent for every 2 trekkers
Sleeping mattress (you need to carry this unless you hire a personal porter)
Oxygen bottle
First aid kit
Entrance to the Inca Trail and Machu Picchu
Bus from Machu Picchu to Aguas Calientes

Not Included

Entrance to Huayna Picchu – there is a fee of $65 per person payable via Paypal in advance so we can secure permits
Sleeping Bag – $20 per bag for entire trek
Gratuities (Porters, Cook and Trail Guide)
1st breakfast and lunch on day 4.
Walking sticks ($15).
Travel Insurance – you are strongly recommended to take out travel insurance for the duration of your trip.