LUXURY INCA TRAIL TO MACHU PICCHU
FULLY PRIVATE LUXURY INCA TRAIL TREK
Luxury Inca Trail to Machu Picchu 4D/3N Reconaziced and rated among the best trekking destinations in the world. Because of the exquisite beauty of its natural Flora and Fauna surroundings the Machu Picchu National Park. Following this ancient Inca Trail.
You will walk past increasingly impressive archaeological sites. That led to the lost city of the Incas Machu Picchu. Our addition of “Glamping” (Amazin Luxury Camping Adventure) brings a new twist to an old favorite, upping the ante for service, dining, and comfort. In addition to Luxury Camping, this trip Inca trail to Machu Picchu also features in-depth tours of Cusco. The surrounding ruins, and the scenic Sacred Valley, with comfortable first-class Travel and accommodations throughout.
Crowned by the towering Andes and tucked between the Amazon and the Pacific, Peru offers a captivating mix of adventure, nature, and history. Embedded in every active traveler’s Top Ten List is the great city of the clouds, Machu Picchu Hike Peru. Our route takes us there from bustling Lima to the cobblestone streets of Cusco, from ruin to ruin across the Sacred Valley, and by train and breathtaking footpath over the Amazing Luxury Glamping or Luxury Inca Trail To Machu Picchu 4 Days.
Highlights
- Discover the colorful street markets, friendly people, and strong local culture of Cusco, the historic capital of the Inca empire
- Catch a glimpse of the Andean Condor, a scavenger with the largest wingspan of any land bird – 10.5 feet!
- Delight in traditional Peruvian dishes prepared by your expert cooking team and camp with the best views of the surrounding jagged peaks
- Descend into the Andean cloud forest and keep your eyes peeled for orchids and epiphyte plants in the dense undergrowth
- Visit the Intihuatana, Temple of the Sun, residential areas, terraced fields, ceremonial fountains, and other sectors of Machu Picchu.
Travel Partners In Peru
Peru Luxury Guide. Is proudly offering this trip in conjunction with Tour Leaders Peru Adventure. TLPA is a local Peruvian company based in the City of Cusco. Established in 2015.
Specializing in adventure travel and non-conventional tourism, the company combines tourism with cultural, educational, and natural (Amazon) history. Peru Leaders describes itself as a commercial venture with a strong environmental and social agenda.
Developing and supporting many projects such as river clean-ups and supporting Andean, Amazon communities Social projects The Porters Shelter House YouTube. Tour Peru Leaders look to host many of their adventure trips with help from the local communities of Peru. And relates them with Inca culture and the daily life of the Andean people.
Peru Luxury Guide and Tour Leaders Peru looks forward to providing you with top-notch customer service in some of Peru’s most beautiful and inspiring places such as Glamping The Inca Trail To Machu Picchu and Best Luxury Hotel all-inclusive.
The Inca Trail Map 4 Days
Hike the Inca Trail with our illustrated map, and go to Machu Picchu. The iconic 4-day hike is a beautiful way of exploring Peru’s Andes Mountains while discovering hidden gems along your journey!
Days
3N/4D
Logging
REI Tents
Difficulty
Challenge / Moderate
Best Time
May/Nov
Size Group
* 8 P. Max
From:
$2,33.00
- Overview
- Itinerary
- Inclusions
- Price
- Packing List
- Additional Items
- Restrictions
- Why Peru Peru Luxury Travel?
Peru Luxury Travel Guide is the finest trek we have in Peru. Travel to the most amazing places for four days with the finest REI equipment, top qualified Tour Leaders, best Chefs, massage on the mountains, hot showers, porters, and all the necessary equipment needed to offer you the best experience in this spectacular trek to Machu Picchu.
Overview of Luxury Glamping on Inca Trail
- Duration: 4 days 3 nights
- Hiking Distance: 42 km – 26 miles
- From: Cusco to Cusco (Door to door service)
- Age Range: 10 to 65
- Best Time To Hike Inka Trail: March to January
- Depart: Km 82 – Piscacucho
- Difficulty: Moderate to Challenging
- Highlights of the Luxury Inca Trail
- Luxury Camping Equipment (Comfortable tents, cots, hot water showers)
- Hot showers at every campsite
- Enjoy the best Peruvian Cuisine prepared by our trekking chefs.
- Board the exclusive panoramic Train back to Cusco
- Travel with a private elite trekking team
- Support our Social projects while traveling – VIDEO
Day 1 – Cusco – Wayllabamba (B, L, D)
We welcome you on our exciting 4-day tour. With an early pick-up from your hotel in Cusco. Once you had enjoyed breakfast (or perhaps you will request a box breakfast from your hotel) our expert Tour Leaders will board you into your private transportation in the direction to Km 82, where the beginning of our trek is situated. On route, we will take a short break in the beautiful town of Ollantaytambo (2792 Meters/ 9160.1 ft). Here we will have some time to explore and pick up any last-minute supplies that you may need, and also make the most of the opportunity to use the restrooms.
KM 82 and the Luxury Machu Picchu Glamping Peru Treks Specialist Peru.
In continuation, we will drive for 40 min to reach Km 82, also known as Piscacucho (2675 meters/ 8776.3 ft). At this location, our porters and support staff will provide us with all our camping equipment, as well as prepare all of the last remaining details in order to make sure that everybody has a memorable experience. We will follow the steps of the Incas, as you embark on your once-in-a-lifetime adventure and pass through many incredible archaeological sites along the way, appreciating the flora and fauna. After hiking for approximately 4 hours, your arrival will be at the Tarayoc site (2675 meters/ 8776.3 ft) where lunch will be served, overlooking the beautiful scenery. After enjoying lunch, a hike for 2 hours will take you to Wayllabamba (2970 meters/ 9744.1 ft) a lovely village where our luxury campsite will be awaiting you.
First Night Camsite| Briefing for the next day (Dead Woman Pass on The Inca Trail 13,828 ft)
Before indulging in dinner, you will have the time to take a hot shower followed by a delightful massage, our specialized therapist will use many organic essentials oils for you to relax around nature. Afterward, you will visit the dining tent to enjoy the food lovingly prepared by our cook, and your waiter will be there attending to your personal needs. Your bedroom tent will be awaiting your presence so that you can enjoy the serenity of nature and a night of good night’s sleep.
Trek starting time: 09:30 am Approx.
Arrival at the campsite approx.: 16:30 pm
Minimum altitude: Km 82 – 2675 masl/ 8776.3 ft.
Maximum altitude: Wayllabamba campsite – 2970 masl/9744.1 ft.
Distance covered: 11 kms/6.8 ml
(6 hours walking approx.)
Difficulty: Moderate.
DAY 2 – Wayllabamba – Pacaymayo (B, L, D)
A nutritious breakfast will be awaiting you as soon as you wake up so that we can commence our 1.5-hour hike in the direction of the Ravine of Ayapata (3328 meters/ 10918.7 ft). Climbing over the ravine, we will stumble upon what seems to be a fairytale forest, with streams of crystal water aside from the road. Continuing with the tour, we will walk another 3 hours, with short breaks in order to catch your breath. Finally, we will reach Llulluchapampa (3760 meters/ 12335.9 ft) where lunch will be served.
After Lunch Challenge hours to Pacaymayu Second Camp Site
This part of the humid Andean forest is the perfect location to admire, digest your food as well as your thoughts as you catch a glimpse of Warmiwañusca Pass, also famously known as the Death Woman’s pass due to the fact that it seems that a woman is lying on her side). Once you have enjoyed admiring the view, you will start your next part of the hike in order to reach the Warmiwañusca Pass (4215 meters/ 13828.7 ft) which will take approximately 2.5 hours.
Take your time with this hike, as it is strenuous but very worthy. The ascent to the pass has been created by cobbled steps which were disposed of so that the mountains would be protected from erosion. Your guide will be there to take photos of your amazing accomplishment at the highest point of the trek.
Commencing our descent to Pacaymayo Ravine (3500 m/11482.9 ft) for the following 2 hours, you will make it to your campsite. Once again, a hot shower and massage tent will be there for you. Have dinner, and enjoy a peaceful sleep in order to feel energized for the following day.
Wake-up time: 05:30 am
Arrival at the campsite: 17:00 pm
Minimum altitude: Ayapata site – 3328 masl/ 10918.7 ft.
Maximum altitude: Warmiwañusca Pass – 4215 masl/13828.7 ft.
Distance covered: 9 kms/5.6 mi
(9 hours walking approx.)
Difficulty: Challenging.
Meals included: Breakfast, snacks, lunch, tea time, and dinner.
Several options with Peru Luxury Guide and Glamping in Peru
DAY 3 – Pacaymayu – Phuyupatamarka Balcony Path (B, L, D)
Indulge in a 30-40-minute yoga session led by our specialist therapist as you breathe in the oxygen and admire the scenic mountains. After yoga, take the time to refresh yourself and enjoy a delicious breakfast before you begin your 1-hour hike through the ruins of Runkurakay, an ancestral Inca structure where your guide will give you an explanation about its significance. Then, another hour of walking as we go through the Second Pass, Runkurakay (3955 m/ 12975.7 ft).
Unforgettable day – Indiana Jones Path Inca Trail
You will be able to witness the Inca trail downhill, a beautiful sight. After descending for an hour, we can take in the sights of an impressive long seaweed-covered lake, a great spectacle. Afterward, you will reach the impressive Inca town of Sayacmarca (3585 m/ 11761.8 ft). Once your guide has explained and answered your questions, we will commence our descent for an hour to Chaquicocha (3535 m/ 11597.8 ft) where you will find your gourmet lunch awaiting your presence. Once you have had lunch, you will hike for 2.5 hours, though some wonderfully looked after the path to reach Phuyupatamarca Pass (3640 m/ 11942.3 ft). A few meters above a small stone tunnel is where your campsite is located, called Phuyupatamarca (3670 m/ 12040.7 ft)
Your arrival will be met by the impeccable services of our staff throughout your course on the Inca Trail. Enjoy a delightfully hot shower accompanied by a relaxing massage as you later indulge in your gourmet dinner served in our dining tent. This will be the final night you spend with the crew, therefore we recommend that you share a toast with them for all their hard work and effort, as we make final lasting memories from this experience. Cheers!
Wake-up time: 05:00 am
Arrival at the campsite: 16:30 pm
Minimum altitude: Chaquicocha site – 3535 masl/ 11597.8 ft.
Maximum altitude: Runkurakay Pass – 3955 masl/12975.7 ft.
Distance covered: 9 kms/5.6 m
5.5 hours walking approx.)
Difficulty: Moderate.
Meals included: Breakfast, snacks, lunch, tea time, and dinner.
DAY 04 – Phuyupatamarca – Machu Picchu – Cusco (B, L)
For your final day of hiking, you will be waking up at 4:30 am in order to enjoy your wholesome breakfast, and to carry on with the final stretch of the hike. Arrived at Wiñaywayna archaeological site (2650 m/ 8694.2 ft) given its name by the beautiful orchids that grow on the site. Wiñaywayna which means “Forever young”. Carrying on with the hike, we will ascend for 1.5 hours to reach the Sun Gate or Intipunku /2750 m/9022.3 ft). Looking outwards onto Machu Picchu will make you appreciate the walk, as you will receive some of the best views. After experiencing the Sun Gate, we will descend down in order to reach Machu Picchu where you will spend an hour.
The time has finally arrived when you will make it to Machu Picchu, one of the Seven Wonders of the World (2430 m/ 7972.4 ft). In your final location, you will be accompanied by your knowledgeable Tour Leader, explaining to you the many secrets and theories that this citadel envelops. After your guided tour you will be free to roam and take some beautiful photos of this majestic structure at your own leisure. To end your time at Machu Picchu, enjoy a delightful lunch at the Belmond Sanctuary Lodge Hotel part of this fabulous program. Later you will take the bus departing back to Aguas Calientes, to following proceed to board your train. Upon arrival, our View Latin America representative will collect you in our private vehicle and take you to your hotel in Cusco.
Wake-up time: 04:00 am
Arrival to Machu Picchu: 11:30 am
Arrival to Cusco: 21:56 pm
Minimum altitude: Machu Picchu – 2430 masl/ 7972.4 ft.
Maximum altitude: Intipunku site – 2750 masl/9022.3 ft.
Distance covered: 8 kms/4.9 m (5.5 hours walking approx.)
Difficulty: Moderate.
Meals included: Breakfast and snacks.
Included
- Pre-departure briefing at 7:00 pm the night before your tour in our office or your Hotel.
- Collection from your Hotel in Cusco from (05:30 am) or from Sacred Valley.
- Private transportation (Start of our trek).
- Breakfast
- Full meals for the entire tour (4 Breakfasts, 3 Lunch 3 Dinner) + snacks (vegetarian, vegan option, gluten, wheat-free, or special diets upon your request.)
- Permit and fees for the Inca Trail Machu Picchu Sanctuary, (Request for Huayna Picchu your Entrance ticket)
- Inca Trail Porters to carry (camping equipment: client tents, dining and cooking tents, table, stools, cooking gear, stove, gas container, cutlery, plates, food, and fresh vegetables).
- Drinkable boiled water for your container (We start filling on the second Days Morning)
- 7-kilogram duffle bags (per Person)
- 2 Excellent experienced top tour guides
- 2 expert gourmet mountain cooks, assistants.
- Hot drinks every afternoon include popcorn.
- Boiled water provided from 2nd day.
- 2 people per tent, clean, new, spacious (4 people REI Half Dome 4 tents).
- Thick, comfortable sleeping mattress,
- Buckets of hot water for washing in your tent every day.
- Private Eco Toilet
- Biodegradable soap and hand cleansing gel.
- Emergency First-aid kit and Oxygen assistance.
- 3-4 hours guided tour in Machupicchu
- Bus Ticket from Machupicchu to Aguas Calientes
- Tourist Expedition train return to Poroy Station or Ollantaytambo.
- Private Bus to Cusco From The Train Station
Not Included
- Sleeping bag (4 seasons -Minus 8ºC) (For rent in Our Office)
- Hiking Poles (For rent in Our Office)
- Tips for the trekking crew, Guides, Cooks, and Porters at your discretion.
- Flight Ticket to Cusco (Contact Us if you Need )
- Accommodation in Cusco. ( Contact US )
- Travel Insurance. (Check that your insurance covers you for treks above 4,200 masl) and (COVID-19)
| Grade | Base in 2 People | Base in 3 People | Base in 4 People |
| Luxury | $4,238.00 | $3,404.00 | $3,28.00 |
| Premium | $3,729.00 | $2,912.00 | $2,544.00 |
| Superior | $3,554.00 | $2,795.00 | $2,438.00 |
| Select | $2,834.00 | $2,291.00 |
2,033.00
|
Price
We are excited to be part of your adventure and lead you to one of the Seven Wonders of the World. Make sure to book your tour in advance. Only 500 people a day are permitted on the Inca Trail Tours of which 250 are reserved for tourists. Machu Picchu allows 2500 tourists daily. Don’t miss your adventure!
Inca Trail To Machu Picchu Cost From per person Group Service
Note: An initial deposit of 800.00 is required to reserve your spot. We require this deposit to buy train and bus tickets, entrance fees to Machu Picchu, Inca trail admission ticket, and for your return transportation. The remaining balance is due 21 days prior to your trek. Please see our Terms and Conditions.
Student Discount
Bring your green card or student cart, please Contact Us for more details
Packing List
This is basic information about the Clothing packing list REI and all the information Here in this linK Comple Packing List to Peru
CLOTHING:
1st Layer:
- Underwear
- Long-sleeved Thermal Shirt
- Thermal form-fitting pants
2nd Layer:
- Polar Fleece
- Trekking pants
- Thick socks
3rd Layer:
- Waterproof Jacket
- Waterproof pants (optional)
- Insulated Jacket
- Scarf
- Cold weather Hat
- Gloves
- Buff/ handkerchief
- Sun hat
TRAVEL ACCESSORIES:
- Backpack 20-30 L
- Waterproof cover for backpack
- Trekking shoes (waterproof and firm)
- Sport shoes/ sandals for campsites
- Camping pillow
- Sleeping bag liner (optional)
- Sturdy water bottle
- Trekking poles
- Headlamp
- Plastic bags for wet items
- Toiletry kit (toothbrush, wet wipes, etc)
- Swimsuit/ towel
- Sunscreen (SPF 50+ recommended)
- Sunscreen lip protector
- Sunglasses
- Insect repellent
OTHER:
- Personal Medications
- Motion sickness tablets for the van ride
- Camera/ Extra battery
- Personal snacks
- Hand warmers (optional)
- Leisure book for evenings
- Cash and small coins
There are additional items you can include on this trip.
Below is a quick list of prices.
- Huayna Picchu hike : + 75 USD
- Machu Picchu Mountain hike + 75 USD
Huayna Picchu
If you want to climb Huayna Picchu make sure to book in advance as there are only 400 permits allowed daily to this location.
$75 per person Please notify us during your booking if you wish to purchase this upgrade.
Machupicchu Mountain
Machupicchu Mountain offers even more magnificent views than Huayna Picchu. There are also only 400 permits allowed daily to this location. A 360-degree view of Machupicchu and the surrounding valley and glaciers are seen from this mountain.
US$35 per person Please notify us during your booking if you wish to purchase this upgrade.
Additional Night in Aguas Calientes hotel
The price depends on the season and Hotel availability.
Train stations and train schedules are subject to availability
If you would like to climb Huayna Picchu Mountain or Machu Picchu Mountain. Please take in mind that it is an unguided hike.
Require an additional cost and involve starting the hike at 07:00 am on the 4th day. If you have plans to hike This optional Hike to Huayna Picchu. Please consult with Our travel specialists as we need to check availability far in advance.
Travel Highlights
- 100% Operated by Tour Leaders Peru. We never share you with other tour operators.
- Pick up from Airport and Hotel
- Top-of-the-line equipment REI Co-op Half Dome 4 Tent. Only for Two person
- 7 kg per person, other companies offer you only 6 kg
- Inca Trail and Machu Picchu entrance Tickets (Huayna Picchu or Montana Machu Picchu in case you want to explore more)
- Best English Speakers Tour Leaders, We know Communication is very important in your trip
- Extraordinary Chefs! Don’t get stressed about food and forget your power bar. We serve you a 5-star outdoor restaurant with delicious organic gourmet food in your dining tent.
- Hotel Aguas Calientes with all facilities (overnight stay)
- Free and Safe Storage in Cusco and Aguas Calientes while you are hiking and visiting Machupicchu
- REI Inca Trail Camping Equipment also available for Rent
- Private transportation
- Perfect Location For Photographers
- Comfortable and Panoramic Train back to Cusco from Aguas Calientes.
Combined Regular Inca Trail Tours
Are you a traveler looking for new adventures? A photographer in search of stunning landscapes? A hiker or camper who loves the outdoors? If so, you’re going to want to check out our new hiking tours of the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu. But hurry – restrictions are now in place due to Covid19 that may limit access in the near future. So don’t miss your chance to experience this unique and amazing journey!
Luxury Inca Trail 4 Days
Total distance: 26 miles/23km
Elevation: 4,200m/13,779ft
Good for Hikers
Difficulty: Quite Challenging
Inca Trail: Permit Require
INCA TRAIL 2 DAY WITH HOTEL (All Inclusive)
This itinerary is rated moderate hike. The trek starts at 2100m (KM 104) and climbs to 2700m (Wiñay Wayna) before descending to 2400m (Machu Picchu). Since the trek is carried out at a much lower altitude than the Short 2 day Inca Trail trek you do not need to worry about acclimatization.
SALKANTAY & INCA TRAIL 7 DAYS
Total distance: 46.7 miles/75km
Elevation: 4,821m/15,817ft
Good for Hikers
Difficulty: Quite Challenging
Inca Trail: Permit Require
LARES TREK & INCA TRAIL 4 DAYS
Total distance: 29,3miles/47km
Elevation: 4,700m/15,419ft
Good for Hikers
Difficulty: Quite Challenging
Inca Trail: Permit Require
Best Inca Trail Equipment, Porters & Private Facilities
Top Of The Line REI - EQUIPMENT
Hiking in Peru is a great way to take advantage of the country's natural beauty. The right camping equip can make your trip more enjoyable and comfortable, like what REI has on offer with their Tents S, Pats S, Bags, etc!. From our store, you know where else these products might come into play when traveling abroad
Porters Weltfare INCA TRAIL PORTERS
Have you ever wondered how the Inca Trail was made? The answer might be found in its most important part: Porters, they'll take you to your destination.
PORTER isn't just about carrying your gear for hiking – it's also a job that requires strength, agility.
Bathroom Situation ON THE INCA TRAIL
If you're planning to hike the Inca Trail Hike, there are a few things you need to know about the bathroom situation. Unlike many other trails, there are no bathrooms along the way, so it's important to plan ahead. Here are a few tips to help make your journey as comfortable as possible.
Sacred Valley and Lares Adventure to Machu Picchu
5 or 7-day adventure to Machu Picchu through the Sacred Valley of the Incas and beyond
Daily hiking and cultural excursion options— design your own unique journey!
Adventures starting at:
5-Day Program (25% OFF):
High Season: $2,650 USD – $1,990 USD
7-Day Program (25% OFF):
High Season: $3,450 USD – $2,590 USD
Machu Picchu
Get in Touch
Call Us
(888) 812-8687
Food & Drink
Healthy Organic Gourmet meals in all of your Classic Inca Trail To Machu Picchu
Daily Seasonal Food on each trip and Tours
Peruvian cuisine has only recently exploded onto the international culinary stage, but Peruvians have always been crazy about their nation’s culinary heritage, and they steadfastly cling to the traditional, multiculti flavors of home. Even in the face of modern gastronomic innovation. A range of climates, from high altitude to low, offers an impressive diversity of produce. Yes, that means potatoes over 3800 kinds but also a variety of corn and other grains, to say nothing of the country’s native aji chilies that are often puréed into sauces.
Coffee, Tea, Water, & Assorted Beverages
Every morning and afternoon, before and after your daily hikes you will find hot drinks and snacks in your dining tent.
*Special Diets Available Upon Request
Information
Why Travel with Peru Luxury Guide
We are available 7/24 in support of your Inka Trail training, preparation, and answering any questions you may have. Our Office staff will be in charge of your Preparation.
We have the experience and expertise to help you prepare and fully enjoy your Amazing Machu Picchu Trek. On signing up we send out our Hiking trips events with full information and details of undertaking this adventure.
The cost of this trek variate according to the size of the group.
Free Luggage Storage
We make easy your trip, Free luggage storage when you are traveling or Hiking your Inca Trail with us for more details contact us, please.
REI Camping Equipment for each trip
We are not affiliated with this rei.com Brand But as a local Tour operator we support local business and our customers enjoy their private Sleeping tent only for two persons to learn more in our Camping Equipment for Inca trail
Private Eco Toilets
We do not share public toilet along the Inca trail we carry our portable ECO Toilets Only for our Groups
Peruvian Gourmet Food on each Tours
Food Include in each Trek, Vegetarian option available. we really take care of your gluten-free food contact with our office for any food restriction.
Private Transportation on each trip
As a responsible tour operator in Peru, we do not share our mobility with other tourists, all our transportation is only for your group or family members.
Best Chaskis (Porters)
We do not overbear our staff, they are principal resources in this travel industry
Product Types
- Private and Group Tours
- Small-Group Tours (consisting of 8 people)
- Escorted Bus Tours
- Independent City Stays
- Multi-Destination Rail Packages
- Customized Travel Vacations
- Custom Groups and Individuals Packages
- Group Air Packages
We leave no trace
We carry all our Trash From The begging to the end of each hike keeping clean all our hiking trail
Have a Question About the Machu Picchu Hike?
Talk With The Experts
INFORMATION
INCA TRAIL HIKING TOUR FAQs
Are you considering a hike on the Machu Picchu Trail and surviving the dead woman’s Pass? If so, there are some things you should know before making your decision. This blog post will answer some frequently asked questions about the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu tours. We’ll cover everything from how difficult the hike is to what the weather is like and what you can expect to see along the way. So, if you’re curious about what it’s like to hike the Inca Trail, keep reading!
The Classic Inca Trail to Machu Picchu runs 26 miles (42 km) long, is usually hiked over 4 days and 3 nights, and is tucked away in the beautiful Andes mountains in Peru.
How Hard is The Inca Trail?
The Inca Trail is an ancient hiking path that leads to Machu Picchu, one of the most famous and popular tourist destinations in South America. The path is 43 miles long and passes through a variety of landscapes, including high-altitude forests, mountain peaks, and rugged terrains. Hiking the Inca Trail is definitely not for everyone – it can be difficult, challenging, and even dangerous at times. But if you’re up for the challenge, the journey is definitely worth it!.
The hike itself, which brings you along ancient narrow paths deep into the Peruvian countryside and high into the Andean mountains, is gorgeous; perfect Incan ruins, cloud forest, and majestic valley views laid out like breadcrumbs along the way to perhaps the greatest end-point of any multi-day hike on earth, the iconic Machu Picchu.
Ready? Here’s everything you need to know before doing the Inca Trail hike rear all our advice, please.
The Bathroom Situation on The Inca Trail
Inca Trail, toilet quality
This is where the bad news begins. Inca Trail toilets are not the most hygienic, clean, or private affairs. You’ll be lucky if your toilet has a lock. On the first day, the toilets are usually fairly decent and clean. However, as you venture further along the trail the quality rapidly decreases.
By the next day, you will use a squat floor toilet. In which you squat over. The flushing mechanism often floods meaning that toilet waste is on the floor of many Inca Trail toilets. Be sure to wear your hiking boots when going to the toilet.
There is often no light and you’ll want to make sure you bring a headlamp for those night-time toilet visits.
This does not make for a pleasant experience! you can read How to use toilets on The Inca trail very good information for new outdoor adventures
Inca Trail Portable Toilets – option
My name is Cesar and as a Tour Guide, I believe the best option on the Inca Trail is to hire a tour company that provides a portable toilet all the way up. These are known as ‘toilet tents’.
Although not as common, this is probably one of the most important things I would recommend when deciding on what tour operator to use. You’ll probably have to book with a western operator and it may cost slightly more, but it’s definitely worth it! The toilet tent is carried by porters.
They are clean and only used by your group. You’ll be able to sit on a toilet drum within the privacy of a tent, and if there are any issues, your operator will sort them out immediately.
Inca Trail Availability - Hurry Up
It is recommended to book the tour inca trail to Machu Picchu 4 Months in advance, before booking flight tickets and hotels, because there are limited spots to reserve.
Is The Inca Trail Really Worth It!
Hiking the Inca Trail is absolutely worth the $180 dollars per day group service or maybe more if you go on a private group. We can assure you will create big memories that will last a lifetime and that alone is worth the money.
Read the article here: Is The Inca Trail Worth really Worth It
You will see many ancient Inca remains along the way that rival Machu Picchu in beauty and preservation that you can only see on the Inca trail. On top of that, the sense of accomplishment upon arriving in front of the Sun Gate after hiking for 4 days is gratifying.
However, to travel to this iconic Inka city of Machu Picchu on a bus, skipping the hike when you’re physically able to do it, would be a mistake. All of the magic of the experience would be lost.
On the trail, you truly feel connected to the local culture and the Inca history comes alive, which is the best part.
If you happen to be in Peru and you aren’t physically able to do a trek to get to Machu Picchu, it’s still magnificent to see and it’s worth the visit. It’s a world wonder for a reason.
Distance for the Inca trail to Machu Picchu 4 days and 3 nights
The trail itself is breathtaking, but the end of the trail is a spectacular sight as you reach the ancient ruins of Machu Picchu at Sunrise. The Classic Inca trail runs Covers 26 miles (42 km) long, is usually hiked over 4 days and 3 nights, and is Trek away in the beautiful Andes mountains in Peru.
Read Our Article Inca Trail Map great info for everyone
Is The Inca Trail Dangerous?
Like anything in life, the Inca Trail does have risks. But you are far more likely to have an accident on the roads back home, than trekking on the Inca Trail.
Read Related Article: Is The Inca Trail Dangerous?
There is always a risk of landslides in any mountains. The lifecycle of a mountain involves it gradually eroding and making its way downhill to the sea via the rivers. It is what mountains do. But some parts of a mountain are more prone to landslides than others. In the same way that you are more likely to get mugged in certain areas of California, New York, or the Alpes than others, the key lies in understanding and managing the risks.
Part of managing the risk is making sure everyone involved is aware of the risks, including you or anyone in our groups. You can read more about our Risk and Safety policies at the bottom of each tour on our websites, is an “F&Q” section, with further details about the risks involved in a particular trip.
Is this the first time someone has died on the Inca Trail or Machu Picchu?
No, this is not the first time someone has died either on the Inca Trail or Machu Picchu. But the figures are very low when you consider up to 7000 people per day visiting Machu Picchu and 750 per day trek the Inca Trail (500 on the complete Inca Trail, 250 on Shor Day Inca Trail To Machu Picchu).
- 2004 A tourist was struck by lightning on Huayna Picchu and died
- 2010 2 people died in a landslide at Wiñay Wayna campsite
- 2013 A tourist fell and died, on a lower part of Machu Picchu
- 2016 A tourist fell from Machu Picchu Mountain, having crossed the safety barrier to take a jumping selfie
- 2020 A porter was killed in a landslide at Pacamayo campsite
How Long Does it Take to Hike The Inka Trail To Machu Picchu?
How Many Miles is The Inca Trail from km 82?
We’ve outlined our own route on the Inca Trail below and, in broad terms, this is the sort of itinerary you can expect (note that this relates solely to the days spent on the hike, not the days of traveling to/from Cusco and Ollantaytambo):
Day One: Travel from Ollantaytambo to km.82 in the morning and hike to the campsite
Distance | Approx. 6.8 miles/ 11 km
Elevation Gain | 350 meters
Difficulty | Moderate, with a steep tiring section towards the end.
Day Two: Early rise to hike through cloud forest and up to Dead Woman’s Pass and the descent to campsite
Distance | Approx. 7.5 miles/ 12km
Elevation Gain | 1,115 metres
Difficulty | High, this is the hardest day of walking but after you reach DWP, it’s mostly downhill.
Day Three: Early rise to hike the most photogenic section of the Trail
Distance | Approx. 9.6 miles/ 15.5km
Elevation Gain | Minus 1,000 metres
Difficulty | Moderate to a little difficult as there are several steep sections.
Day Four: Very early rise (3 a.m.) to reach the entry check-point and hike 1-2 hours to the Sun Gate and Machu Picchu.
Distance | Approx. 3.1 miles/ 5 km
Difficulty | You’re almost at the end and Machu Picchu, you should be hopping, skipping, and jumping all the way there!
Best Time To Hike The Inca Trail To Machu Picchu
Machu Picchu Hike Difficulty
First, the numbers: if you tackle the classic four-day Inca Trail you’ll have 24-26 miles to trek (depending on which trailhead you set out from), over 2,000 meters to haul yourself up and level yourself down, and over 3,000 steps to deal with in total.
In terms of fitness and technical challenge, this is considered to be a trek of moderate difficulty. The effort required, though, isn’t evenly distributed across the four days. Rather, the greatest lung-bursting effort is front-loaded into the first day and a half. The high point, Dead Woman’s Pass, is – at 4,198 meters.
Definitely the toughest of the three passes, both in terms of the potential effects of altitude and the sharpness of the elevation gain. There are, however, a number of campsites on the way to this first pass, and some groups opt to make the second day easier by staying at the highest campsite on the first night.
Machu Picchu Covid19 Restrictions for Visitors
Peruvian authorities are allowing visitors to change their Machu Picchu entry tickets. And tour operators can change Inca Trail permits.
I’ve included a link to see information about the new rules at Machu Picchu pro & post Covid-19, a link to the new Machu Picchu website, and other tips to help you navigate your way through the process of canceling or changing your trip to Peru.
VIDEO : DRONE 360* footage of the best bits
If you’re looking for an adrenaline rush, the Inca Trail is the hike for you! This renowned trekking route finishes in one of the most spectacular tourist destinations on Earth – Machu Picchu. And thanks to some amazing drone footage, now you can see what all the fuss is about from every angle. Feast your eyes on these stunning scenes and prepare to be awestruck!
Features and inclusions presented in this video may differ from your selected itinerary.