TOP EXPERIENCE

4 Day Classic Inca Trail

Overview Itinerary What´s included FAQs

Price from:

$809

(Group of 4 or more get 10% OFF with code YAPAGROUP10OFF at checkout)
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Why You’ll LOVE this trip:

Take on one of the World’s Top 10 Treks

This is the classic Inca Trail that takes you through ancient Inca pathways, remote ruins, incredible views, and an incredible finish at Machu Picchu.

Sunrise entrance through the Sun Gate

Arrive to Machu Picchu the legendary way, with that first panoramic view after days on the trail.

Reach the trail’s highest point

Take on Dead Woman’s Pass and earn some of the best views of the entire trek.

Permits handled for you

The Inca Trail is regulated and spaces are limited. This takes the guesswork out of securing the right entry.

Small groups

We guarantee a personalized unique experience for you unlike other large group operators.

Expert local guide, porters, and support crew

Learn more about the Inca Trail and Machu Picchu than written in any guidebook with truly local insights.

Proper camping setup

Tents set up for you, camp organization handled, and a team that keeps things running smoothly.

Logistics handled from start to finish

Private pickup in Cusco, Inca Trail permit, Machu Picchu entry tickets, local guide, porters, campsite setup, and more... You just focus on hiking.

The Yapa Guarantee

Yapa means “extra” in Quechua (the ancient language of the Inca’s). We go above & beyond (extra) to guarantee you a once in a lifetime experience

Small group
tours

Local tour
operator

1,000+
reviews

Empowering
women

Sustainable
tourism

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1: Cusco – Km 82 – Ayapata Camp

Early Morning

  • 4:30 AM: Pick-up from Cusco hotel and drive to Km 82 (start of the trail).
  • 6:30 – 7:00 AM: Stop for breakfast in Ollantaytambo (not included).
  • 8:30 AM: Arrive at Km 82, check-in with passport, and hand duffel bag to porters.

Late Morning

  • Begin the 12km (7.5mi) hike along the scenic Vilcanota River, surrounded by lush landscapes and towering Andean peaks.
  • Pass the impressive Inca ruins of Huillca Raccay & Llactapata, offering the first glimpse into the ancient world of the Incas.

Afternoon

  • Arrive at Wayllabamba (3,000m/9,842ft), a charming valley village, then hike 1.5 hours to Ayapata campsite.
  • Meals included: Lunch, snacks, afternoon tea, and dinner.

Early Evening

  • Settle in at camp, enjoy hot tea and appetizers before dinner under the breathtaking Andean sky.

Summary

  • Difficulty: Easy/Moderate.
  • Night temperatures: Can drop to 5°C.
  • Peak Altitude: 3,300m (10,826ft).
  • Total Distance: 14km (8.5mi).

Day 2: Ayapata – Dead Woman’s Pass – Chaquicocha

Early Morning

  • 5:00 AM: Wake up with coca tea & breakfast.
  • 4-hour hike to the legendary Dead Woman’s Pass (4,215m/13,830ft) – the highest and most rewarding challenge of the trek, offering unparalleled mountain views.

Late Morning

  • Short break at the pass for photos & well-deserved rest.
  • Descend 1.5 hours to Pacaymayu Valley, a lush, remote valley where we stop for lunch and water refills.

Afternoon

  • Ascend 2 hours to the mystical Runcu Raccay Inca site, where history and nature merge.
  • Stop at Sayacmarca, an ancient Inca village with spectacular, panoramic views over the Andes.

Early Evening

  • Hike 20 minutes to Chaquicocha campsite (3,600m/11,811ft).
  • Enjoy dinner & stargazing, with a chance to see the Milky Way in one of the clearest skies in the world.

Summary

  • Meals included: Lunch, snacks, afternoon tea, and dinner
  • Accommodation: Camping facilities
  • Distance: 16km/10mi (about 7-8 hours hiking)
  • Difficulty: Challenging

Day 3: Chaquiccocha – Wiñay Wayna

Early Morning

  • 6:30 AM: Wake-up & breakfast.
  • 2-hour hike along the stunning “Inca flat” terrain into the Cloud Forest, filled with orchids, hummingbirds, and breathtaking jungle scenery.
  • Pass Salkantay, the second highest snow-capped peak in the Sacred Valley, standing majestically over the landscape.

Late Morning

  • Reach the final peak at Phuyupatamarka (3,600m/11,811ft), an incredible viewpoint overlooking the Urubamba River.
  • 3-hour descent via a mesmerizing stone staircase to Wiñay Wayna campsite.

Afternoon

  • Arrive 1:00 PM, lunch & relax in preparation for Machu Picchu.
  • Visit the enchanting Wiñay Wayna ruins (1.5-hour guided tour), a stunning example of terraced Incan architecture.

Early Evening

  • Farewell dinner & ceremony with porters & chefs – a chance to express gratitude to the incredible team that made this journey possible.

Summary

  • Distance: 10km (6mi).
  • Difficulty: Moderate.
  • Peak Altitude: 3,600m (11,811ft).
  • Total Distance: 10km (6mi).

Day 4: Sun Gate – Machu Picchu – Cusco

Early Morning

  • 3:30 AM: Wake-up & breakfast.
  • 4:00 AM: Queue at the checkpoint for early access, ensuring an unforgettable sunrise experience at Machu Picchu.
  • 5:30 AM: Gates open, 1-hour hike to Sun Gate (Inti Punku) – your first breathtaking, picture-perfect view of Machu Picchu.

Late Morning

  • 6:30 AM: Arrive at the legendary Machu Picchu, the lost city of the Incas, bathed in the golden morning light.
  • 7:30 AM: 2-hour guided tour exploring its temples, plazas, and terraces.

Afternoon

  • Free time to explore or hike Huayna Picchu (must pre-book), offering unparalleled views over the ruins.
  • Bus down to Aguas Calientes, with an optional lunch in the town (not included).

Early Evening

  • 3:20 PM or 4:22 PM: Train back to Ollantaytambo/Poroy.
  • Yapa Explorers driver will transfer you back to Cusco.
  • Arrival back to Cusco: Approx. 8:30 PM (may vary depending on train schedule and traffic conditions)
  • Drop-off in the Cusco Historic Center (Plaza Regocijo area) located one block from the Main Square (Plaza de Armas). Please note that evening vehicle access in Cusco can be challenging due to traffic patterns and street restrictions within the center which make accommodation drop-offs impossible.

Summary

  • Distance: 5km (3mi).
  • Difficulty: Easy.
  • Peak Altitude: 2,720m (8,923ft).
  • Total Distance: 5km (3mi).
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Speak to a local expert

Contact our Machu Picchu experts on Whatsapp HERE or email info@yapaexplorers.com for help planning your adventure!

What’s included

When you book with Yapa, everything is taken care of – no stress, no surprises, just an incredible Inca Trail experience led by expert local guides.

Seamless pre-trek support

Personalized Pre-Trek Briefing – We’ll contact you and meet the evening before departure to go over all details and answer any last-minute questions.

Permits & entry fees covered

  • Official Inca Trail Permit (limited availability, secured for you upon booking)
  • Machu Picchu Entry Ticket for the grand finale of your journey

Expert guidance

  • Professional, experienced, bilingual guide to bring the trail’s history to life
  • 2-hour guided tour of Machu Picchu for an in-depth exploration

All transport & logistics handled

  • Hotel/hostel pick-up & Cusco Central drop-off for a smooth start and end to your trip
  • Private mini-van transfer to the trek’s starting point
  • Bus from Machu Picchu to Aguas Calientes after your hike
  • Train & private mini-van back to Cusco for a comfortable return journey

Camping & support team for maximum comfort

  • 3 nights campsite accommodation under the Andean sky
  • Porters handling campsite equipment, food supplies, and drinks
  • Professional cook & delicious meals to fuel your adventure

24/7 support team

Expert on the ground team available via WhatsApp and Email anytime

Optional add-ons

  • Huayna Picchu ticket - $65 (request in advance)
  • Private tent upgrade for 3 nights - $85 (request in advance)
  • Rented sleeping bag - $20
  • Rented air mattress - $20
  • Rented trekking poles - $20
  • Upgrade the train journey back to Cusco to the Vistadome/360° luxury train with panoramic windows, snacks and a local cultural dance show onboard - $65 (subject to availability)
  • Individual porter service for 7kg of your gear – $95

Not included

  • First day’s breakfast and last day’s lunch & dinner

Note: It is assumed you will share a tent. There is a single room surcharge if you are a solo traveler and want to secure a private tent.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How physically fit do I have to be for this 4 Day Inca Trail?

The trek is moderate level. It involves 4 days of walking, with some steep sections and high altitudes, and requires at least 1 day in Cusco to acclimatize before you begin. We always brief you in advance, and you can contact us to help choose the right tour or trek for your level.

How many people will be in my tour group?

All of our Machu Picchu treks have a maximum of 10 people for a truly personalized, authentic experience.

If looking to book a private group trek, contact us, and we’ll organize one for you.

Is this trek a good option for solo travelers?

Yes, 100%. A great thing about our treks is that they are made up of like-minded travelers and are a great way to meet people and share the experience of Machu Picchu.

When is the best time to visit Machu Picchu?

Machu Picchu is accessible 365 days a year. The rainy season is in February, but you still get amazing views.

Low Season is November to February, which many travelers like, as there are smaller crowds, but really, any time is a great time to visit Machu Picchu.

Note: The Classic Inca Trail is unavailable in February; all other tours and treks operate as normal.

What should I pack for this 4 Day Inca Trail?

There are a few essentials everyone should bring:

  • Comfortable walking shoes or hiking boots
  • Small backpack (under 20L)
  • Rain jacket or poncho (weather can change quickly)
  • Sunblock, hat, and sunglasses
  • Water bottle and light snacks
  • Bug spray
  • Camera or phone (drones are not allowed)

    • We will send you a more detailed packing list, including any extra items you might need, after you book.

The Yapa Promise

Yapa Explorers is locally owned and female-led, ensuring an authentic, personalized, and seamless experience.

  • The “Yapa” extra mile – We obsess over the details, unlike other companies.
  • 100% operated by us – No middlemen. We control the quality of every guide, meal, and transfer personally to ensure you get exactly what you booked.
  • 100% confirmed departures – We never cancel a confirmed trip due to low numbers. Once you book, your departure is guaranteed.

We are more than just a tour operator—we are a group dedicated to exceptional service, expert guiding, and responsible tourism. 

Every trek with us supports the local community, ensuring that both our travelers and the people behind the journey benefit from every step.

We promise you can trust that every detail is taken care of – all you need to do is enjoy the adventure!

Speak to a local expert

Don't hesitate to reach out if you have a question about this trip.

Whatsapp us here
Planning to travel to Machu Picchu within the next 8 weeks?

Entry tickets and Inca Trail permits sell out in advance and last-minute bookers may have to slightly adjust their itinerary (e.g. earlier start or changes to schedule).

Don’t worry – Yapa will make sure your dream trip to Machu Picchu happens, unlike other operators.

Contact us with any questions via Whatsapp or email and our expert team will get back to you!

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