Itinerary
Discover what awaits you in the Private Classic 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: 3,300 m (10,830 ft) above sea level
- Difficulty: Moderate (getting used to the Inca Trail)
- Weather: Warm and windy
We begin our private adventure on the Classic Inca Trail to Machu Picchu.
Our private Classic 4-Day Inca Trail starts early with pickup at your hotel in Cusco. We will head to Ollantaytambo, where we will have time for breakfast and some last-minute shopping before continuing to Km 82 – Piscacucho, the starting point and first checkpoint of the Inca Trail.
After registering our entry, we will begin hiking along the ancient Inca Trail to Machu Picchu. Since this is a private experience, we will be accompanied exclusively by our guide, enjoying the route at our own pace with time to take in the landscapes of the Sacred Valley, the views of the snow-capped La Verónica peak, and the Urubamba River.
Along the way, we will visit Willkarakay and arrive at Patallacta, one of the first major archaeological sites on the route. Our private guide will accompany us during the visit, sharing the history, architecture, and meaning of these important remains of Inca civilization.
We will continue hiking to our lunch spot and then move on to Wayllabamba, where our first campsite is located. Upon arrival, we will have time to rest, enjoy dinner, and prepare for the next stage of the Classic Inca Trail to Machu Picchu.
What is this day like? check our photos
day 2
DAY 2: WAYLLABAMBA - WARMIWAÑUSCA PASS - PACAYMAYO
- Hiking distance: 16 km (10 miles).
- Campsite elevation: 3,600 m (11,810 ft).
- Area: Andes and cloud forest.
- Weather: Cold and rainy.
The most exciting challenge of the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu.
We will start the day with an early breakfast in Wayllabamba (3,000 m above sea level) before beginning the ascent to Warmiwañusca, known as Dead Woman’s Pass, at 4,215 m, the highest point of the private Classic 4-Day Inca Trail.
Accompanied exclusively by our guide, we will hike at our own pace through a variety of mountain landscapes until we reach the pass. From here, we can enjoy breathtaking views of the Andes mountain range and appreciate how far we have come.
After reaching this iconic point, we will begin the descent to Pacaymayo (3,600 m), where we will enjoy a well-deserved lunch and have time to rest.
In the afternoon, we can relax and enjoy the natural surroundings before sharing dinner. We will spend the night at our Pacaymayo campsite, getting ready to continue the next day along the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu.
day 3
DAY 3: RUNKURAKAY - SAYACMARKA - PHUYUPATAMARKA - INTIPA - WIÑAYWAYNA
- Hiking distance: 6.2 miles / 10 km (5 hours).
- Campsite altitude: 2,600 m (8,530 ft) above sea level (cold weather).
- Difficulty: Easy day – mostly downhill.
- Area: High cloud forest.
- Weather: Warm and very humid.
The most extraordinary day of our Inca Trail to Machu Picchu.
After a carefully prepared breakfast in Pacaymayo, we will begin one of the most fascinating days of our journey. Accompanied exclusively by our expert guide, we will walk ancient Inca paths that cross different Andean ecosystems, combining spectacular landscapes, archaeological heritage, and extraordinary natural richness.
Along the way, we will discover some of the most iconic archaeological sites of the Inca Trail, including Runkurakay, Sayacmarca, Phuyupatamarca, Intipata, and Wiñay Wayna. Each one reveals a different side of the engineering, architecture, and worldview of the Inca civilization.
Our guide will accompany us at each visit, sharing details about the history and meaning of these places as we hike at our own pace, with time to take in the landscapes, enjoy nature, and take photos.
The route will also let us appreciate the extraordinary biodiversity of the Inca Trail, where the transition between ecosystems supports a wide range of plant and animal species, including wild orchids and a variety of Andean birds.
At the end of the day, we will reach Wiñay Wayna, one of the most impressive places on the entire route. There we will enjoy tea time and dinner before resting at our campsite and preparing for the most anticipated moment of our experience: arriving at Machu Picchu the next day.
A day to discover, contemplate, and connect with history. A carefully guided experience with Sakura on one of the most extraordinary ancestral trails in the Andes.
day 4
DAY 4: WIÑAYWAYNA - INTIPUNKU - MACHU PICCHU - AGUAS CALIENTES - OLLANTAYTAMBO - CUSCO
- Hiking distance: 5 km (3.1 miles).
- Machu Picchu elevation: 2,400 m (7,875 ft).
The most anticipated day of our trip to Machu Picchu
We wake up early to begin hiking toward Intipunku (Sun Gate), where we will get our first panoramic view of Machu Picchu. We then descend to the citadel for a guided tour of about 2 hours. Afterward, we have free time to explore on our own or climb one of the optional mountains (Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain, subject to availability).
After enjoying Machu Picchu, we take the bus down to the town of 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 our transportation will be waiting to take us back to Cusco, arriving at approximately 10:00 p.m.
This private 4-day itinerary is an experience at your own pace. If you are short on time, there are alternatives such as the Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, ideal for travelers looking for less physically demanding routes. Inca Trail availability is limited, so it is essential to book any of its options in advance: the Classic Inca Trail, the 1-Day Inca Trail, or the 2-Day Inca Trail.
What is this day like? check our photos
Includes
- Private group from 2 passengers.
- Personalized assistance before departure and a detailed briefing the day before the Inca Trail.
- Professional bilingual guide (Spanish and English), licensed for the 4-Day Inca Trail.
- Inca Trail entry permit and Machu Picchu entrance ticket – Circuit 3B.
- 3 nights of camping along the route.
- Camping equipment: 2- and 3-person tents, dining tent, utensils, and a basic sleeping mat.
- Porters to carry the camping equipment, and a professional cook throughout the Inca Trail.
- Porter to carry passengers’ backpacks (up to 14 kg).
- Full meal plan: 3 breakfasts, 3 lunches, and 3 dinners, with vegetarian options.
- Daily snack to enjoy during the hike.
- Boiled, filtered, and cooled water available at mealtimes. We recommend bringing a reusable bottle or a CamelBak.
- Coca tea or a hot drink in the morning and afternoon tea time before dinner.
- Private tourist transportation Cusco – Km 82 (Piscacucho) and Ollantaytambo – Cusco.
- Tourist bus Machu Picchu – Aguas Calientes.
- Tourist train Aguas Calientes – Ollantaytambo, Inca Rail Voyager service.
- First aid kit and oxygen tank for emergencies.
- Basic hygiene products for the campsite.
Not include
- Sleeping bag rental: USD 20.00
- Trekking pole rental: USD 15.00
- Additional entrance (Huayna Picchu / Machu Picchu Mountain): USD 75.00
- Day 1: Breakfast.
- Day 4: Lunch and dinner.
- Travel insurance (recommended): For greater peace of mind during your trip, we recommend purchasing insurance that covers unforeseen events such as flight cancellations or delays, lost or delayed luggage, illness, accidents, trip interruptions, and loss of tour services due to delays, as well as medical assistance and personal protection throughout your adventure.
- Tips: Optional.
- Additional expenses due to causes beyond the agency’s control: adverse weather conditions, itinerary changes for safety reasons, illness, changes in government policy, political instability, strikes, or other similar circumstances.
Prices Private Classic Inca Trail – 4 Days
Rates per person – Private service
- Adult (minimum 2 people): US$ 1600
- University student (18 to 25 years old): US$ 1575 (US$ 25 discount)
Student discount requirement
Physical university ID (PVC card), valid during the year of travel and showing full name, photo, university and expiration date. ISIC cards, digital certificates and screenshots are not accepted. Send a copy at the time of booking.
Payment
You can pay in full when booking or, if you prefer, secure your spot with a US$ 300 deposit per person. In that case, the balance must be paid no later than the day before the tour.
Packaging list
- Valid passport
- Extra money (soles recommended)
- Personal medication
- Water bottle or CamelBak (water purification tablets optional)
- Protection products (SPF 70+ sunscreen, insect repellent, UV-protection sunglasses)
- Clothing: Lightweight shoes or sandals, pants and socks (preferably for hiking), water shoes, jacket, poncho, hiking boots/shoes (preferably waterproof), long-sleeve shirts, thermal jacket, a hat that protects your face and neck, shorts, and a neck scarf or buff
- Personal hygiene products (towel, toothpaste, soap, deodorant)
- Sleeping bag
- Trekking poles and flashlight
- Medium hiking backpack (15 to 25 liters)
- Camera with charger and power bank (optional)
- Snacks: energy bars, electrolytes, nuts, energy gels, etc.
- Swimsuit
Recomendations
We recommend booking as soon as possible, because the government strictly limits the number of people allowed on the Inca Trail (daily permits are issued to only 200 hikers plus 300 porters). We therefore recommend making your Inca Trail booking as far in advance as possible, as soon as you know your international flight dates.
F.A.Qs
How far in advance should I book the Inca Trail?
We recommend booking as soon as possible, because the government strictly limits the number of people allowed on the Inca Trail (daily permits are issued to only 200 hikers plus 300 porters). We therefore recommend making your Inca Trail booking as far in advance as possible, as soon as you know your international flight dates.
HOW DO I BOOK?
- To book, your passport must be valid for more than 6 months from your travel date. This helps you avoid problems entering Peru, as our immigration office is strict.
- Check availability for Machu Picchu and the hotel of your choice with one of our Travel Advisors. You can send us a WhatsApp message at +51 980 532 600 or email us at ventas@sakuraexpedition.com.
- Once your passport validity and availability are confirmed, you can book the travel package by making a USD 200 deposit through any of our payment methods:
- Bank transfer: transaction fees are covered by the client; that is, we credit the amount that actually reaches our bank accounts.
- Credit card: add 7% of the total payment amount, a fee charged by our providers.
- PayPal: add 7% of the total payment amount, a fee charged by PayPal.
How do I know if the Inca Trail tour is right for me?
The Classic 4-Day Inca Trail tour to Machu Picchu follows one of the original trails preserved from Inca times, and not everyone manages to get a permit. It is designed for any traveler who can walk independently; no intense training is needed, just a strong desire to hike. However, we always recommend spending some time in Cusco to acclimatize to the city’s altitude before starting the Inca Trail.
What is the best time of year for the Inca Trail tour?
The weather in the Andean region has two seasons: the dry season (April to October), which is the best time, and the rainy season (November to March). Keep in mind that even during the rainy season, a single day can bring rain, sunshine, cloudy skies, and even plenty of sun. The Inca Trail opens on March 1 each year and remains open until the end of January. Today, tourists from all over the world visit Machu Picchu 365 days a year. The busiest months are April to September. Machu Picchu is located in the high jungle, so its climate is warm and humid, with temperatures ranging from 8 °C to 20 °C (46 °F to 68 °F). We recommend bringing clothing for both cold and warm weather.
IS THE INCA TRAIL TOUR CLOSED IN FEBRUARY?
Yes. Because it is the rainy season, the trail is closed for maintenance.
HOW MANY DAYS BEFORE DO I NEED TO BE IN CUSCO TO ACCLIMATIZE?
It is very important to be well adjusted to the altitude before exerting yourself on a hike.
ACCLIMATIZATION We recommend arriving in Cusco at least 2 or 3 days before your Inca Trail tour begins, so you can acclimatize and avoid possible altitude sickness during the hike.
We can help you arrange day hikes and other tours in Cusco for your acclimatization:
Cusco City Tour – Half-day tour / Morning City Tour; Sacred Valley Tour – Full-day tour
If you have already been in another high-altitude area of Peru before arriving in Cusco, we recommend spending a full day in Cusco to rest, recover from your journey, and enjoy the sights and sounds of the city before setting off on the hike.
WILL I RECEIVE TRAVEL INFORMATION BEFORE MY TRIP?
The day before your departure, you will receive a detailed briefing from your guide. This may be in a group or individually at your hotel.
UPDATING PASSPORT NUMBERS The government will only allow us to change passport numbers if we have a copy of both the new and the old passport. If you no longer have your old passport, any government-issued ID will be accepted, as long as the name is the same. Also, make sure your passport does not expire within six months of your trip.
HOW DO I GET TO CUSCO?
Most people arrive in Cusco by air. Remember that Cusco airport only handles domestic flights. If you are flying in from abroad via Lima, you must collect your bags in Lima and check them in again for your flight to Cusco. Four airlines fly between Lima and Cusco: LATAM Airlines, JetSMART, Sky Airline, and Avianca. They all offer similar schedules, but we generally recommend LATAM or Avianca, as they tend to be the most reliable when unexpected flight cancellations or delays occur.
CAN I SPEND AN EXTRA NIGHT IN AGUAS CALIENTES?
Of course. If you are fine with taking the same train from Aguas Calientes that is part of your original itinerary (usually at 6:20 p.m.), there is no additional charge to move your return train back by one day. If you need us to book your hotel or another visit to Machu Picchu, there will be an additional cost. If you choose to spend an extra night in Aguas Calientes, please inform the Sakura Expeditions office at least one month in advance so your train ticket can be purchased for the correct day.
DO I NEED HIKING BOOTS?
We always recommend hiking boots. Those with ankle support are very helpful, especially for inexperienced hikers. Because you will be going down many steps built by the Incas, which are now uneven and of different heights, the extra support helps protect your ankles.
SHOULD I USE TREKKING POLES?
Poles are always useful for hikers and are recommended for this trek. There are many stairs to go down, all built by the Incas; they vary in height and are not all straight. Using poles can help relieve pressure on your knees on this part of the trail, and they will also help you on the way up. If you bring your own, make sure they have rubber tips, or the park rangers will not allow you to use them. You can buy rubber tips in Cusco if you forget them before leaving.
HOW DO I PAY THE REMAINING BALANCE?
We would greatly appreciate it if you pay in cash (US dollars or Peruvian soles) at our office here in Cusco. There are many ATMs in the historic center where you can withdraw money.
WHAT SIZE HIKING BACKPACK IS RECOMMENDED?
Generally, a 30- to 60-liter backpack is enough.
CAN I LEAVE MY LUGGAGE AT YOUR OFFICE?
Of course! During the trip, your main luggage can be stored at our office or at your hotel, both free of charge.
ARE TIPS EXPECTED?
Tipping is part of the tradition of any hike to Machu Picchu. Although we pay good wages to our entire team, anything extra is always appreciated. Please note that tipping is not mandatory, and you should never feel pressured to do so.
