Itinerary
Discover what awaits you in the Private Inca Trail 4 days
day 1
DAY 1: CUSCO – PISCACUCHO (KM 82) - PATALLACTA - WAYLLABAMBA
- Hiking Distance: 8.7 miles / 14 km (6-7 hours)
- Campsite Altitude: 3300 meters (high) above sea level
- Difficulty Level: Moderate (Getting accustomed to the Inca Trail)
- Climate: Warm with a presence of wind
The 4-day Inca Trail tour with private service begins with an early pick-up at your hotel in Cusco to head to Ollantaytambo, where we will have breakfast and make any last-minute purchases. We continue our journey to km 82 – Piscacucho, the first checkpoint of the Classic Inca Trail. We begin hiking towards the archaeological site of Patallacta, where our guide will explain. Then we continue to the lunch area and finally arrive at Wayllabamba, where we have dinner and spend the night.
What is this day like? check our photos
day 2
DAY 2: WAYLLABAMBA - WARMIWAÑUSCA PASS - PACAYMAYO
- Hiking Distance: 16 kilometers (approximately 9.94 miles).
- Campsite Altitude: 3600 meters (high) above sea level.
- Area: Andes and Cloud Forest.
- Climate: Cold and rainy.
We have an early breakfast to begin the ascent to the highest point of the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, Warmiwañusca Pass (4,215 m above sea level), also known as “Dead Woman’s Pass”. From there, we descend to Pacaymayo camp, where we will enjoy lunch, dinner, and rest.
day 3
DAY 3: RUNKURAKAY - SAYACMARKA - PHUYUPATAMARKA - INTIPA - WIÑAYWAYNA
- Hiking Distance: 6.2 miles / 10 km (approximately 5 hours).
- Campsite Altitude: 2600 meters (high) above sea level (cold climate).
- Difficulty Level: Easy day—entire descent.
- Area: High cloud forest.
- Climate: Warm and very humid.
On the third day, we have an early breakfast to continue hiking to the archaeological site of Runkurakay, an ancient Inca checkpoint where food was stored. We continue walking for about an hour and thirty minutes to Sayacmarca, surrounded by impressive terraces that are difficult to access. We continue to Phuyupatamarka, known as “the town above the clouds”, and finally visit Intipa, which was an agricultural center, before arriving at our campsite in Wiñaywayna, where we will have tea time and dinner.
day 4
DAY 4: WIÑAYWAYNA - INTIPUNKU - MACHU PICCHU - AGUAS CALIENTES - OLLANTAYTAMBO - CUSCO
- Walking distance: 5 km.
- Elevation in Machu Picchu: 2,400 meters.
We wake up early to begin walking to Intipunku (Sun Gate), from where you can appreciate the first panoramic view of Machu Picchu. We descend to the citadel for a guided tour of approximately 2 hours. At the end, we have free time to explore on our own or climb optional mountains, such as Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain (subject to availability).
After enjoying Machu Picchu, we board the bus to Aguas Calientes, where we will have time for lunch. From there, we head to the train station to board our tourist train to Ollantaytambo, where transportation will be waiting to return us to Cusco City, arriving at approximately 10:00 p.m.
This 4-day itinerary with private service is an experience tailored to your pace. If you don’t have much time, there are alternatives, such as the Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, which is ideal for travelers seeking routes with less physical demand. Inca Trail availability is limited, so it is essential to book in advance any of its modalities: the classic Inca Trail, the 1-day Inca Trail, or the 2-day Inca Trail.
What is this day like? check our photos
Includes
- Briefing one day before the tour
- Inca Trail permit and entrance (issued for a specific date and name). Cannot be changed under any circumstances. Passport number changes are only allowed for renewal reasons. In that case, you must provide your new and old passports.
- Entrance to Machu Picchu
- Private bilingual guide authorized for the 4-Day Inca Trail
- Private guide at Machu Picchu
- 3 nights accommodation
- 3 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 3 dinners (vegetarian options)
- Beverages: Boiled, filtered, and cold water during the hike (it is recommended to bring an empty bottle or camelback, which you can fill during each meal)
- Wake-up tea (provided each morning at camp) and tea time or happy hour (provided before dinner)
- Camping equipment: Dining tents and utensils
- Private transportation Cusco – Piscacucho (Km 82) / Ollantaytambo – Cusco
- Bus Machu Picchu – Aguas Calientes
- Tourist train Aguas Calientes – Ollantaytambo
- First aid kit
- Oxygen tank
- Duffel bag
- Cook
Not include
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- Sleeping bag (rental 20 USD)
- Trekking poles (rental 15 USD)
- Additional entrances (Huayna Picchu / Machu Picchu Mountain)
- Breakfast (day 1)
- Lunch and dinner in Aguas Calientes (day 4)
- Travel insurance
ADDITIONAL COSTS
- Inflatable mattress (15 USD)
- Lunch at Sanctuary Lodge (45 USD)
- Entrance to Huayna Picchu mountain, subject to availability and schedules (60 USD)
- Entrance to Machu Picchu Mountain*, subject to availability and schedules (60 USD)
- Guided tour of Huayna Picchu mountain or Machu Picchu Mountain (75 USD per group)**
- Upgrade your train service to “Vistadome” on return (50 USD)
- Upgrade your train service to “Vistadome Observatory” on return (75 USD)
- Single tent (50 USD)
*Machu Picchu Mountain refers to the peak/mountain on the opposite side of the Machu Picchu archaeological site. *If you choose the Huayna Picchu mountain or Machu Picchu Mountain option, depending on availability, you may need to add a cost for a private guide in Machu Picchu city
Prices Private Inca Trail 4 days
Availability 2025
This tour is available every day of the year, except in February (due to the annual closure of the Inca Trail). Advance booking is required and the tour requires a minimum of 2 participants.
Private Service Prices
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2 to 3 people: US$ 720 per person
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4 or more people: US$ 700 per person
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Solo traveler: US$ 1240 per person
Note: A minimum of 2 participants is required to confirm the tour. If you are traveling alone, please contact us to check availability for your preferred date.
Payment Conditions
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Deposit: US$ 200
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Remaining balance: US$ 520 (to be paid 24 hours before the tour or on the day of the pre-trek briefing)
Special Discounts 2025
University Students (ages 18 to 25): US$ 25 off
Requirement: Present a valid physical PVC university ID card (valid for one year only), which must include:
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Full name of the student
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Photograph
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University information
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Expiration date (must be valid in the year of travel)
Not accepted: ISIC cards, digital certificates, or screenshots.
Important: Send a copy of the ID at the time of booking.
Students under 17: US$ 25 off
Send a copy of the passport at the time of booking.
Children under 11: US$ 35 off
Send a copy of the passport at the time of booking.
Optional Services and Rates
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Extra porter (7 kg): US$ 80
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Extra porter (14 kg): US$ 160
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Sleeping bag: US$ 20 per person
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Air mattress (thermal rest): US$ 20 per person
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Trekking poles (pair): US$ 15 (professional and adjustable)
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Personal tent (for solo travelers): US$ 30
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Extra night in Aguas Calientes: From US$ 60 (subject to availability)
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Vistadome train (return to Cusco at 16:43): US$ 67 per person
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Huayna Picchu Mountain: US$ 75 per person (request at time of booking)
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Machu Picchu Mountain: US$ 75 per person (request at time of booking)
Added Value Included in Your Trek to Machu Picchu
At Sakura Expeditions, your experience is our priority. All our Inca Trail and alternative trek packages include free added services so you can enjoy your adventure to the fullest:
Personal Duffel Bag for Trekking Gear
During the pre-departure briefing, you’ll receive a durable and lightweight duffel bag for packing your clothes, sleeping bag, and personal items for the 3 or 4-day trek. This bag will be carried by a porter (optional, if you hire one).
Boiled and Purified Water Along the Trail
From day two, we provide safe, boiled water for drinking. No need to carry extra water—our team will keep you hydrated throughout the entire Inca Trail or any alternative route to Machu Picchu.
Small Groups for a Better Experience
We operate with small groups—an average of 4 to 8 people, with a maximum of 10 trekkers per group. This allows for a more personalized service and a deeper connection with nature and Andean culture.
Certified and Highly Experienced Guides
You will be guided by a certified tour leader, highly trained in high-altitude trekking, with deep knowledge of Inca history and archaeology along the Inca Trail and at Machu Picchu.
No Availability on Your Preferred Date?
No worries. You can still enjoy an unforgettable adventure. At Sakura Expeditions, we offer spectacular alternative treks to Machu Picchu that are just as scenic and far less crowded:
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Salkantay Trek
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Lares Trek
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Inca Jungle Trail
All options include breathtaking landscapes, visits to local communities, and the grand finale—arrival at the iconic Machu Picchu.
Packaging list
- Valid passport
- Extra money (recommended in soles)
- Personal medications
- Water bottle or camelback (optional purification tablets)
- Protection products (sunscreen 70+ or higher, insect repellent, UV protection glasses)
- Clothing: Light footwear or sandals, pants and socks (preferably for hiking), sock liners, jacket, poncho, mountain boots/shoes (preferably waterproof), long-sleeve shirts, thermal jacket, hat that protects face and neck, shorts, and a neck scarf or buff
- Personal hygiene products (towel, toothpaste, soap, deodorant)
- Sleeping bag
- Trekking poles and a flashlight
- Medium hiking backpack (15 to 25 liters)
- Camera with charger and power bank (optional)
- Snacks: energy bars, electrolytes, dried fruits, energy gels, etc.
- Swimsuit
Recomendations
- Campsite allocations are subject to change depending on availability provided by the Minitery of Culture. (government office in charge of the Inca Trail).
- This itinerary is for reference because the time of departure and arrival to Cusco City may vary according to availability and train schedules.
- After you make the reservation and payment of this tour, we will send you a confirmation e-mail stating the hotel name in Aguas Calientes Town, and the time of your trip by train.
- The 5th day after your visit of Machu Picchu, there is the possibility to climb the Huayna Picchu Mountain + USD $. 15.oo per person. This hike lasts about 2 hours round trip. (Book it, when you reserve this tour).
- You can also climb the mountain Machu Picchu, instead of the Huayna Picchu Mountain + USD $ 10.oo per person. This hike lasts about 3 hours round trip. (Book it, when you reserve this tour)..
- You always have the opportunity to climb to the Sun Gate for free and this is a much easier walk for about 1 and half hour round trip, or if you want to have a very short and easy hike you can walk for free to Inca bridge during 1 hour round trip.
F.A.Qs
How to get to Cusco?
Most people will arrive in Cusco by air. Please remember that Cusco airport is only for domestic travel. If you are coming directly from overseas through Lima, you must retrieve your luggage in Lima and check it in again for your flight to Cusco. Four airlines fly roundtrip between Lima and Cusco, including LATAM Airlines, Jet Smart, and Sky Airlines. They all offer similar schedules, but we usually recommend the airlines that tend to be more accommodating in case of unexpected flight cancellations or delays.
How to know if the Inca Trail tour is for me?
The 4-day Inca Trail tour to Machu Picchu is one of the original preserved Inca paths from ancient times, and not everyone can secure a spot. It is designed for passengers who can walk without the need for extensive training, but who can move independently. However, we always recommend spending some time in Cusco to acclimatize to the altitude before starting the Inca Trail.
What is the best time to do the Inca Trail tour?
The Andean region has two main seasons: the dry season (from April to October) and the rainy season (from November to March). Keep in mind that even during the rainy season, a single day can have rain, sunshine, cloudy skies, or even plenty of sun. The Inca Trail is open from the first day of March each year until the end of January. Nowadays, tourists from all over the world visit Machu Picchu all year round, with the highest influx of tourists being from April to September. Machu Picchu is located in the cloud forest, so the climate is warm and humid. Temperatures vary between 8ºC and 20ºC. It is advisable to bring both warm and light clothing.
Is the Inca Trail tour closed in February?
Yes, the Inca Trail is closed for maintenance during February due to the rainy season.
How many days in advance do I need to be in Cusco to acclimatize?
It is very important to be well acclimatized to the altitude before exerting yourself on a hike. We recommend arriving in Cusco at least 2 or 3 days before the Inca Trail tour begins so you can acclimate and avoid potential altitude sickness during the trek. We can help you organize day hikes and other tours around Cusco for acclimatization purposes.
What is the difference between Huayna Picchu and Machu Picchu Mountain?
Both Huayna Picchu and Machu Picchu Mountain are hikes with restricted permits that must be done within specified time slots. These permits/tickets will be arranged by Alpaca Expeditions, but they need to be secured a few months before your trip. Both hikes offer incredible views of Machu Picchu from viewpoints directly above. Machu Picchu Mountain takes about 3 hours to reach the summit and offers spectacular views on clear days, but the views are often restricted by clouds. Huayna Picchu takes 45 minutes to reach the top and is definitely the most popular of the two options. All views are amazing.
What is the difference between the short Inca Trail treks and the classic Inca Trail treks?
The short 2-day Inca Trail treks are very different from the 4-day trips, which we consider our classic full treks. On the 2-day trip, you will have one day of hiking and one day at Machu Picchu. For your overnight stay, you can choose between comfortable hotel accommodations. Porters are not included, so you will carry all of your own belongings for this trip. This option is ideal for those who want to witness stunning views from the Sun Gate, Machu Picchu, and the Inca Trail but may not have enough time for the classic trek. It is also a great choice for beginner hikers or families with young children. Our 4-day Inca Trail tours cover much more ground and expose you to more experiences on the Inca Trail. As you trek and camp, you will pass multiple archaeological sites and enjoy unforgettable mountain views as you make your way to the Sun Gate and Machu Picchu. Our longer tours include several gourmet meals on the trail, porters to help carry bags, and comfortable private campsites. This tour is perfect for visitors seeking a challenge and a deeper experience in the Andes.
How is the reservation process?
FIRST: To make a reservation, send us an email to [email protected] to check availability and receive personalized reservation forms: All customers must complete a Passenger Details form when proceeding with the reservation. This form is prepared with the following information (FOR EACH PARTICIPANT in your group). We cannot purchase any permits without the following information: *Personal information (full name, exactly as in your passport): *Gender *Passport number *Date of birth (dd/mm/yyyy) *Nationality. Once you make your reservation, we will book it as quickly as possible due to the high demand for permits throughout the year.
SECOND: Sakura Expedition will request completion of a reservation form with all the details and then a $200 deposit per person. Once we have all the deposits and details, we will reserve your permits. When the permits are in our hands, we will send you a confirmation invoice indicating that everything is 100% confirmed and guaranteed.
Will I receive travel information before the trip?
One day before your trip departure, you will receive detailed information from your Guide, either in a group or personal briefing, at your hotel.
Passport Number Updates The government will only allow us to change passport numbers if we have a copy of the new passport and the previous passport. If you no longer have your previous passport, any government-issued identification will be accepted as long as the name matches. Also, make sure your passport does not expire within six months from the start of your trip.
Can I spend an additional night in Aguas Calientes?
Of course, if you are okay with taking the same train from Aguas Calientes that is part of your original itinerary, which is usually at 6:20 PM, then there is no additional charge to move the train back a day. If you need us to secure your hotel or another visit to Machu Picchu, this will be an additional cost. If you choose to spend one more night in Aguas Calientes (the town at the entrance of Machu Picchu), make sure you inform the Sakura Expeditions office at least one month in advance, so your train ticket is purchased for the right day.
Do I need hiking boots?
We always recommend mountain boots. Those with ankle support are particularly helpful, especially for inexperienced hikers. Since you will be descending many steps created by the Incas, now uneven and at different heights, the additional support helps protect the ankle.
Should I use hiking poles?
Hiking poles are always useful for hikers and are recommended for this trek. There are so many stairs you will be descending, all made by the Incas. They vary in height and are not all straight. Using hiking poles can help alleviate the pressure on your knees during this part of the trail. They will also assist you in climbing the mountain. For those bringing their own, make sure to have rubber tips, or the rangers will not allow you to use them. Rubber tips can be purchased in Cusco if you forget them before departing.
What about the remaining balance?
It would be much appreciated if you pay in cash at our office (US dollars or Peruvian soles) here in Cusco. We have many ATMs in the historic center to withdraw money.
What size backpack is recommended for hiking?
Generally, a 30 to 60-liter backpack is sufficient.
Can I leave my luggage at your office?
Absolutely! During the trip, your main luggage can be stored at our office or your hotel, both free of charge.
Are tips given?
Giving tips is part of the tradition for any trek to Machu Picchu. While we do pay good wages to all our staff, any extra gesture is always appreciated. Please note that this is not obligatory, and you should never feel pressured to d