Classic Inca Trail to Machu Picchu 4 days

Your adventure begins before sunrise with pickup from Cusco and a scenic drive through the Sacred Valley toward Piscacucho (KM 82), located at 2,700 m / 8,858 ft. After presenting your original passport at the checkpoint, you officially enter the Inca Trail.

The first section of the hike is gentle, allowing you to ease into the rhythm of the trek. As you walk alongside the Urubamba River, you’ll enjoy views of the Veronica Glacier and pass small archaeological remains. From the viewpoint of Wilkarakay, you’ll admire Llactapata, an impressive Inca complex surrounded by lush vegetation.

After lunch, the trail gradually ascends toward Ayapata at 3,300 m / 10,827 ft. Upon arrival, you’ll relax with hot drinks and dinner before resting for the next day’s challenge.

After a wake-up cup of coca tea, you begin a steady climb to Warmiwañusca (Dead Woman’s Pass), reaching 4,215 m / 13,829 ft — the highest point of the trek. The panoramic views of the Andes reward every step.

Descending into the valley for lunch, you then ascend toward Runkurakay, a circular Inca structure perched on the mountainside, before crossing the second mountain pass.

The trail continues to Sayaqmarka, dramatically built along a steep ridge. As the sun sets over the Vilcabamba range, you arrive at Chaquiqocha camp at 3,600 m / 11,811 ft for dinner and a peaceful night under the stars.

Today’s hike is shorter and more scenic as the trail transitions into lush cloud forest. You’ll reach Phuyupatamarka at 3,650 m / 11,975 ft, offering sweeping views over the mountains.

Walking down ancient stone steps, you’ll pass the agricultural terraces of Intipata, where the Sacred Valley stretches far below.

Finally, you arrive at Wiñay Wayna at 2,650 m / 8,694 ft. This spectacular archaeological site, meaning “Forever Young,” is one of the most impressive on the trail. After exploring, you celebrate with your trekking team before resting early for the grand finale.

Before dawn, you begin the final stretch toward Inti Punku at 2,720 m / 8,924 ft. After about an hour of hiking, you witness your first unforgettable sunrise view of Machu Picchu.

Inside the citadel at 2,430 m / 7,972 ft, you’ll enjoy a guided tour through temples, terraces, and ceremonial spaces, discovering the engineering brilliance and spiritual significance of this Inca masterpiece.

After free time — and optional mountain hikes if pre-booked — you descend by bus to Aguas Calientes, take the train to Ollantaytambo, and return comfortably to Cusco by private transport.