Salkantay Zipline

Inca Trail 4 Days to Machu Picchu

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Inca Trail 4 Days to Machu Picchu

Salkantay Zipline
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Salkantay Zipline
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Salkantay Zipline
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4-Day Inca Trail

Join a classic 4-day hike to Machu Picchu on Peru’s most famous trail. You will walk through stunning Andean mountains, visit ancient ruins like Wiñay Wayna, and see a magical sunrise at Machu Picchu through the Sun Gate. This adventure combines nature, history, and a moderate challenge, perfect for true explorers. Our all-inclusive package covers everything: permits, Machu Picchu tickets, meals, and gear. Our professional team makes sure your journey is safe, organized, and free of hidden fees.

Permits and Tickets Included

The price of the 4-day tour covers all necessary permits and entrance tickets for Machu Picchu. As soon as you book, we secure your permits to save your spot. Your ticket lets you see the entire Machu Picchu site, including a classic viewpoint for amazing photos. On the fourth day, you will pause to listen to your guide, take pictures, store your backpack, and use facilities before re-entering Machu Picchu. A two-hour guided tour will follow, where you learn about the history and culture of the Incas, making your visit unforgettable.

Trip Details

Availability for the 4-Day Inca Trail
We offer daily departures, but space is limited by the Peruvian government. Only 500 people are allowed each day, and about 200 spots are for visitors. This makes the 4-day trail very popular. The limits help protect the trail and preserve this UNESCO heritage site.

Checking Availability
Visit our website to see a real-time calendar that shows available spots. The calendar is linked to the government system, so the information is accurate. If you see open dates, click “BOOK ONLINE” to reserve your spot immediately. If your dates aren’t available, no other tour operator can book them either. Because space is limited, plan and book early.

Itinerary

DAY 1:

Cusco to Piscacucho – Wayllabamba

On the first morning, you leave Cusco early between 5:30 and 6:00 am. A car will pick you up and drive for about two hours to Piscacucho, the start of the trail. Here, you cross the Urubamba River and enter the Sacred Valley. After a brief checkpoint, you begin your hike along the river. The scenery features snow-capped mountains, green vegetation, and small ruins like Llactapata that hint at the history ahead. By evening, you reach Wayllabamba, where you camp for the night. This day gently introduces you to hiking and the beautiful surroundings.

  • Early morning hotel pick-up and drive to km 82.
  • Walk along the Urubamba River, passing small villages and ruins.
  • Camp at Wayllabamba (3000 meters above sea level).
  • Distance: 14 km (6-7 hours). Weather: Warm and windy.
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner. Accommodation: Tent camping.

Day two is the hardest. You climb steeply to Dead Woman’s Pass at 4,215 meters. The trail is demanding, but the views from the top are worth it. After reaching the pass, you descend into the Pacaymayo valley. Along the way, you see ruins like Runkurakay and Sayacmarca and pass through cloud forests. By late afternoon, you arrive in Pacaymayo and set up camp. This day challenges you physically but rewards you with amazing sights.

  • Climb to the highest point at Warmiwañusca Pass (13,780 feet).
  • Take breaks to enjoy mountain views.
  • Descend into Pacaymayo valley and set up camp (3700 meters).
  • Distance: 10 km (6-7 hours). Weather: Cold and rainy.
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner. Accommodation: Tent camping.

On the third day, the trail eases up with more downhill sections. You leave Pacaymayo and head towards Wiñay Wayna. The path passes interesting ruins like Phuyupatamarca, known as the “Town in the Clouds,” and beautiful waterfalls. You also visit sites such as Runkuracay and Sayacmarca. The day features steep climbs and descents before arriving at Wiñay Wayna in the afternoon to camp. The mix of trail types and the lush cloud forest make this a memorable day.

  • Hike through steep climbs and descents, seeing more Inca ruins.
  • Reach a high point at 12,630 feet, then descend into the forest.
  • Camp at Wiñay Wayna (2600 meters).
  • Distance: 16 km (7-8 hours). Weather: Warm, humid, and chilly.
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner. Accommodation: Tent camping.

The final day is the most exciting. You wake up early to reach the Sun Gate and watch the sunrise over Machu Picchu. From there, you descend into the ancient city for a guided tour. The sight of Machu Picchu and its architecture is breathtaking. After the tour, you have free time to explore on your own. Later, you take a bus down to Aguas Calientes for lunch and catch a train back to Cusco. You return to Cusco around 6:30 pm, ending your amazing journey.

  • Early start to see sunrise at the Sun Gate.
  • Guided tour inside Machu Picchu.
  • Bus to Aguas Calientes and lunch.
  • Train from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo, then transfer to Cusco.
  • Weather: Hot and humid. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch.

Inclusions

Our package covers everything to make your trek smooth:

  • Transportation: Private car from Cusco to the trailhead (km 82) and back to Cusco after finishing.
  • Permits: All necessary Inca Trail permits.
  • Entrance Fees: Machu Picchu entry and fees for archaeological sites on the way.
  • Pre-Trek Briefing: Meet with our team at 6:00 pm the night before in Cusco. You’ll get important info, a duffle bag, and printed tickets.
  • Porters: A team carries your 7 kg bag, sets up tents, cooks meals, and handles gear so you only carry a small daypack.
  • Professional Guide: A licensed guide speaks English, Spanish, and Quechua, sharing history and culture.
  • Meals: 4 breakfasts, 4 lunches, 3 dinners with vegetarian options.
  • Camping Equipment: Tents and sleeping mats for three nights.
  • Machu Picchu Guided Tour: A detailed tour of the site.
  • Bus and Train Tickets: Bus from Machu Picchu to Aguas Calientes, train to Ollantaytambo, and private transfer to Cusco.
  • Safety Equipment: First-aid kits, oxygen, and clean portable toilets.
  • Dietary Accommodations: Vegetarian meals or other dietary needs at no extra cost.
  • Optional rentals like sleeping bags and trekking poles are available if you don’t have them.
  • Travel insurance is recommended to cover emergencies, cancellations, and belongings.

Optional Rentals

  • Rent a sleeping bag for $15. It works in temperatures as low as -10°C and includes a liner.
  • Rent trekking poles for $15 for the whole trail, helpful on stairs.

Tipping Tipping is a friendly way to thank the team. While not required, it’s common to tip porters, guides, and cooks. It shows appreciation and encourages good service. Even though our team is paid fairly, tipping is a tradition and appreciated.

What to Bring

What to Pack for the 4-Day Inca Trail

Prepare for your trek with these items:

  1. Footwear:
    • Durable hiking boots with ankle support. Break them in before the trip.
    • Comfortable camp shoes or flip-flops for evenings.
  2. Backpack:
    • A small daypack (20–30 liters) for water, snacks, sunscreen, extra clothes, and personal items.
    • A rain cover to keep your pack dry. We can provide a rain cover if needed.
  3. Hydration:
    • A 2-liter water bottle or hydration system. You can refill at campsites with boiled and cooled water.
    • Water purification tablets or a filter if you drink a lot.
  4. Nutrition:
    • Enjoy the snacks we provide: fruit, energy bars, chocolate, candies.
    • Bring extra snacks like nuts, dried fruits, or chocolate if you like.
  5. Clothing:
    • Layer your clothes: start with a moisture-wicking base layer, add a warm middle layer, and finish with a waterproof outer layer.
    • Quick-drying trekking pants.
    • A hat for sun protection and gloves for cold mornings.
    • Extra warm clothes for cold nights.
  6. Sun and Insect Protection:
    • High SPF sunscreen.
    • Sunglasses.
    • Insect repellent with DEET.
  7. Sleeping Essentials:
    • A lightweight sleeping bag rated to -10°C. You can rent one.
    • Optional small pillow.
  8. Trekking Gear:
    • Trekking poles for balance (rentable).
    • A headlamp or flashlight with spare batteries.
  9. Personal Care:
    • Toiletries: travel toothbrush, toothpaste, biodegradable soap, wet wipes, small towel.
    • Any personal medications and a basic first aid kit (bandages, antiseptic, blister pads).
  10. Documents and Cash:
  • Passport, permits, and tickets in a waterproof pouch.
  • Small amounts of cash for tips or small purchases. There are no ATMs on the trail.
  1. Miscellaneous:
  • Camera or smartphone for photos. Bring a portable charger.
  • Lightweight towel.
  • A positive attitude to enjoy the trek and connect with others.

Porter Assistance
Your porter will carry a 7 kg duffle bag with your belongings so you can hike light with just a small daypack.

Special Notes

  • Be prepared for changing weather: it can be hot, cold, sunny, or rainy.
  • Get in shape before the trip with regular hikes and exercise.

About ISIC Card

Valid Student ID for Classic Inca Trail Hike and Machu Picchu

To qualify for the student discount on Inca Trail Permits, travelers must meet the following requirements:

  • Age Limit: Students must be 25 years old or younger at the time of entering the Inca Trail and Machu Picchu. Those over 25 years old cannot enter as a student.
  • ID Requirements: The student ID must include:
    • The name of the university
    • The student’s name and photo
    • A valid expiration date
  • ISIC CARD: This card type is no longer valid anymore

Invalid Student IDs for the Inca Trail Discount

Student IDs will not be accepted for the discount under the following conditions:

  • The traveler is older than 25
  • The ID is expired
  • The ID does not have an expiration date
  • ISIC cards are not valid for obtaining the student discount for Inca Trail permits.

This information is crucial for travelers seeking to benefit from discounted permits for the Inca Trail and Machu Picchu.

Why to Choose

Why choose “Machu Picchu Team”?

“Machu Picchu Team” is a 100% Peruvian-owned tour operator based in Cusco, with extensive experience in hiking, adventure tours, and customized travel packages. As a completely local company, we’re dedicated to providing travelers with authentic, high-quality experiences.

Our vision as a local company is to deliver personalized travel and hiking journeys, managed exclusively by experienced local professionals, with a strong focus on HIGH-QUALITY and PERSONALIZED SERVICE.

We are proud of our reputation as a travel agency that upholds RESPONSIBLE and SUSTAINABLE practices benefiting both the environment and local communities.

We treat our team like family and ensure they receive fair wages. We are incredibly proud of each member of our team! Their dedication makes it possible for us to provide the top-notch service that our many travelers appreciate.

At “Machu Picchu Team,” we understand that our reputation and the feedback from our travelers are essential for gaining the trust of future adventurers. You can check out honest reviews from our guests on TripAdvisor, Facebook, and Google to see why we’re a reliable choice for creating your Peruvian adventure.

Small Group Travel

To ensure a more personalized experience at “Machu Picchu Team,” we keep our group sizes to a maximum of 8 travelers. This approach allows us to offer a tailored experience, unlike companies that operate with larger groups.

About Our Tour Guides

Our guides are our pride. They’re highly knowledgeable and professional, fluent in English, and deeply passionate about Inca culture and history. Each guide is committed to ongoing personal and professional development, allowing them to share accurate insights and fascinating theories about Andean heritage. They are friendly, athletic, and well-educated, with backgrounds in Archaeology, Tourism, Botany, History, or Anthropology.

Our Inca Trail Porters

Hiking with “Machu Picchu Team” ensures a fulfilling experience. Our porters are here to make your journey comfortable and memorable. They carry your equipment, prepare meals, set up camps, and attend to your needs so you can relax and enjoy the adventure. Along the way, you’ll connect with local people, explore stunning sites, and discover historic Inca villages.

We provide our porters with essential equipment at no cost: jackets, sun hats, warm hats, shirts, pants, hiking boots, comfortable bags, canteens, back support belts, sleeping bags, mattresses, and travel insurance. Our porters come from remote communities, and by hiring them, we help improve their economic conditions and support their children’s education. We treat our porters like family!

Our Team and Equipment

Our team—guides, cooks, porters, muleteers—and our equipment make “Machu Picchu Team” stand out from the competition. During our hikes, we provide:

  • Our Tents: We use 4-season EUREKA Timberline tents, designed for four but used by two for extra comfort and storage. They include a small vestibule for boots and poles.
  • Foam Mats: Insulate you from the ground for added warmth.
  • Air Mattresses: Available to rent for $20 USD.
  • Kitchen and Dining Tents: Serve as a common area during meals, perfect for relaxing and socializing.
  • Tables and Chairs: Set up in the dining area, adapted for varying weather.
  • Travel Bags: Provided the night before the trek.
  • Additional Items: We offer pillows, rain covers for backpacks, survival shirts, and portable toilets during the trek.

Our Commitment to Social Responsibility

“Machu Picchu Team” is committed to giving back to isolated communities. We support social projects and prioritize hiring local staff.

We are proud to support local communities not only by providing employment but also by offering assistance to their families. This holistic approach benefits our employees from the Peruvian Andes and their loved ones, strengthening our connection to the local heritage.

Pricing

Pricing

Our fair pricing for the 4-day Inca Trail is:

  • Adults: $700 USD per person
  • Students: $670 USD per person (with a valid student ID)
  • Children (8–17 years): $670 USD per person

Most of your payment goes to local guides, porters, and staff to support the community.


Student Discount for Tours to Machu Picchu

Students under 25 can get a discount. To qualify:

  • You must be under 25 years old.
  • Bring a physical plastic student ID from your school (paper or laminated IDs are not accepted).
  • Your ID must show your university’s name, photo, full name, and an expiration date beyond your visit.
  • ISIC cards are not accepted.
  • Always carry your student ID when visiting Machu Picchu. If you don’t meet the requirements, you might need to pay the full price.
  • Check your ID’s details before booking to avoid problems.

If you have any questions about your student ID or need help, contact us before booking. We’re here to help you plan an amazing visit to Machu Picchu!

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