Customizable private tour with flexible start date
Overview
The Classic Inca Trail to Machu Picchu is Peru’s most iconic trekking route, offering a perfect blend of breathtaking landscapes, ancient history, and cultural immersion. Over four unforgettable days, you’ll walk in the footsteps of the Incas, passing through lush cloud forests, high mountain passes, and mysterious archaeological sites hidden deep in the Andes. Every step brings you closer to the majestic Sun Gate, where the first glimpse of Machu Picchu will leave you speechless.
This adventure is more than just a hike — it’s a journey through time. Along the way, you’ll explore well-preserved Inca ruins, learn about Andean traditions, and enjoy panoramic views of snow-capped peaks and verdant valleys. Guided by experienced local experts, the Classic Inca Trail offers the perfect balance of challenge and reward, making it an essential experience for any traveler seeking the magic and mystery of Machu Picchu.
Highlights
- Stunning Andean landscapes and cloud forests
- Warmiwañusca (Dead Woman’s Pass), the highest point at 4,215 m
- Inca archaeological sites along the route: Llactapata, Sayacmarca, Phuyupatamarca
- Wiñay Wayna, one of the most impressive Inca ruins on the trail
- Inti Punku (Sun Gate), the first panoramic view of Machu Picchu
- Arrival at Machu Picchu via the original Inca Trail
Prices & Inclusions
All itineraries are subject to change due to seasonal weather conditions (and resultant variations in river and tributary water levels) affecting accessibility to locations. Thus navigation routes, times and excursions may need to be modified at the cruise captain’s or your guide’s discretion.
Costs (per person, based on double occupancy)
- Starting at:
- $1500 USD per person
Add ons and extras:
- Huayna Picchu Mountain: $65 USD.
- Machu Picchu Mountain: $65 USD.
- Vistadome Observatory: $110 USD one way – 190 USD Round Trip.
- Walking Poles: $20 USD per pair.
- Sleeping Bag: $30 USD.
- Vistadome Train: $100 USD. Only return.
- Hotel upgrade to 4* or 5*: Ask for costs at the booking time.
Included:
- Tour Guide: English Spanish and Quechua speaking guide.
- Entrance fees to the Classic Inca Trail.
- Machu Picchu ticket with circuit 2. (Depending on availability)
- Private van from your hotel in Cusco to the trail head.
- Private van from Ollantaytambo to Cusco after the trip.
- Train Tickets: Train ticket from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo. (Expedition Train Service).
- Bus ticket from Machu Picchu to Aguas Calientes.
- Professional cook: specialized in hiking routes.
- Wake up tea every morning: It can be Coca tea, Coffee, chocolate, or any type of tea.
- Porters to carry all of our trekking gear.
- We carry 7 kilograms of your personal belongings.
- Large duffel bag provided by the company, for your 7 kg personal belongings.
- Clean and safe water, provided every half day, you need your own water for the 1st morning.
- Tea hour with pop corn, tea, biscuits and more.
- Snacks every morning.
- Large Dining tent table, stools, all cutlery, and kitchen tent.
- Four-person tents are provided for 2 people to provide you with plenty of space for personal gear.
- Meals: 4 Breakfasts, 3 lunches, and 3 dinners.
- Clean and safe water, provided every half day, you need your own water for the 1st morning.
- Vegetarian, vegan, pescatarian options available.
- Air Mattress.
- First aid kit.
- Oxygen tank for emergencies.
- Hygiene Product We will provide you with a bowl, a wáter and hand-towel to clean your hands at every campsite.
Not Included:
- Meals not mentioned on the itinerary.
- Gratuities for Pumadventures team (Guides, Drivers, Cook, porters).
- Souvenirs.
- International or domestic airfare.
- Extra water.
Packing List
- Original passport (it is compulsory to enter the Inca Trail and Machupicchu)
- Good daypack (the smaller, the better)
- Small backpack for the hike
- Headlamp: essential
- Toilet paper
- Thermal clothing: jackets, pants, hats, and gloves.
- Clothes made with materials like linen or cotton which will allow air to circulate better than synthetic fabrics
- Water storage: 2-3L (water bottles must be reusable, not disposable)
- Quickdry towel. We provide small ones.
- Hiking boots that cover your ankles
- Wide-brimmed hats and long-sleeved shirts for sun protection
- Waterproof jacket or poncho for the rainy season
- A fleece or Warm jacket for the cold nights
- Sunscreen
- Insect repellent (15% – 30% deeds)
- Wool hat if cold season
- Snacks like chocolate bars, cereal bars or any dry fruit
- Any necessary personal medications
- Cameras, chargers, extra cables, power-bank
- Extra money for souvenirs, drinks & tips
Itinerary
Inca Trail Adventure Trek
Your expedition begins early in the morning, with our knowledgeable guide picking you up from your hotel in Cusco. After a hearty breakfast in Ollantaytambo and a final opportunity to gather supplies, you will arrive at Km 82, where your trek begins. Here, you’ll meet your friendly porters and support team, who will help create a magical atmosphere throughout your journey. As you trek through stunning landscapes filled with vibrant flora, take a moment to connect with the spirits of the mountains (apus) and the nurturing essence of Pachamama, or Mother Earth. Enjoy a delightful lunch at Tarayoc before reaching your first campsite at Wayllabamba, where you’ll dine under a canopy of stars and reflect on the spiritual significance of this sacred land.
- Meals: Lunch, Dinner Overnight in a tent
Wayllabamba – Llulluchapampa – Pacaymayo
Fuel your body and soul with a hearty breakfast as you prepare for the most challenging leg of the journey. As you ascend to the Warmiwañusca Pass, allow the majestic Andean vistas to inspire you, contemplating the resilience and wisdom of those who walked this path before. After lunch at Llulluchapampa, descend to the Quebrada de Pacaymayo, where you can engage in a meditative practice, grounding yourself in the powerful energies of the Andes.
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner Overnight in a tent
Pacaymayo – Chaquicocha – Phuyupatamarca – Wiñaywayna
After breakfast, set off on a picturesque hike through the lush cloud forest. The ascent to Runkurakay Pass offers a unique opportunity to reflect on your journey, connecting with the ancient wisdom embedded in the landscapes. As you explore the archaeological sites along the trail, such as Sayacmarca and Phuyupatamarca, immerse yourself in the spiritual history of the Incas. Enjoy dinner at Wiñaywayna, where you can share your experiences with fellow trekkers, deepening your connection to the group and the sacred energies of this remarkable place.
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner Overnight in a tent
Machu Picchu – Cusco
On the final day, rise early for a fulfilling breakfast before making your way to Machu Picchu. As you ascend to the Sun Gate, take a moment to express gratitude to the apus and Pachamama for their guidance throughout your trek. The first sight of Machu Picchu is truly breathtaking—a testament to the ingenuity and spiritual depth of the Inca civilization. Explore this UNESCO World Heritage site with our expert guides, who will share the rich history and significance of this ancient citadel. After your exploration, return to Aguas Calientes for lunch on your own, and reflect on the spiritual and physical journey you’ve undertaken before boarding the train back to Ollantaytambo, where our team will ensure your safe return to Cusco.
- Meals: Breakfast Overnight in Cusco (not included)
