Short Itinerary
The Inca Trail 4 Day trek follows the legendary route of the ancient Incas through the Andean Mountains of Peru. Over four days, you will cross high-altitude passes, cloud forests, and archaeological sites before reaching Machu Picchu through the Sun Gate, witnessing one of the most iconic sunrises in the world.
Day 1: Cusco – Km 82 – Wayllabamba – Ayapata
Early morning pickup from Cusco and transfer to Km 82, the official starting point of the Inca Trail. Hike through valleys and archaeological sites such as Llactapata before camping at Ayapata.
Day 2: Ayapata – Dead Woman’s Pass – Chaquicocha
Challenging ascent to the highest point of the trek, Dead Woman’s Pass (4,200 m), followed by a descent to the campsite at Chaquicocha.
Day 3: Chaquicocha – Phuyupatamarca – Wiñay Wayna
Explore stunning Inca sites and cloud forest scenery before arriving at Wiñay Wayna, one of the most beautiful archaeological complexes on the trail.
Day 4: Wiñay Wayna – Machu Picchu – Cusco
Early hike to the Sun Gate for sunrise over Machu Picchu, followed by a guided tour of the citadel and return to Cusco.
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1: Cusco – Piskacucho – Km 82 – Hatunchaka – Wayllabamba – Ayapata.
Our PureqTravel team will pick you up from Cusco at 4:30 AM for your classic Inca Trail hike to Machu Picchu 4 days. If you are in the Sacred Valley (Urubamba and Ollantaytambo), the pickup time will be between 6:00 and 6:30 AM. We will drive for about an hour and a half to Ollantaytambo, where breakfast, which is included, will be served. Afterward, we will continue driving to Piskacuchu (Km 82), the official Inca Trail starting point, where we will meet our team of porters. Once we pass the checkpoint and cross the Urubamba River, we will begin our Inca Trail Machu Picchu Tour:
The first section of the trail is mostly flat until we reach Mesqay, a rest area. After Mesqay, there is a short but steep section, which lasts about five minutes and serves as a preview of the second day’s challenge. After completing the steep part, we will visit the second Inca site, Willkarakay. Our guide will explain its significance, and from there, we will have a view of the first major archaeological site, Llactapata (also known as Patallacta), which our guide will also explain. Then we will hike to Hatunchaca where you will enjoy the Lunch.
After we finish our tasty lunch, we will hike for 45 minutes to get to Wayllabamba, which is last village of Inca Trail at a height of 5144 feet (2900 meters). If you need to buy any energy drinks, snacks, or important things you may have forgotten, like batteries, you can do that here. Afterward, we will hike for another hour and 30 minutes, all uphill, until we reach our campsite at Ayapata. Our porters will set up the camp, after which we will have dinner and rest to prepare for our second challenging day.
- Elevation Gain: 993 m / 3,257 ft.
- Elevation Loose: 339 m / 1112 feet.
- Campsite Altitude: 3303m(10828ft).
- Highest altitude: 3300m(10,826ft).
- Distance: 14 km / 8.69 miles.
- Hiking time: 6 – 7 hours.
- Accommodation: Camping in tents.
- Difficulty: Moderate.
Day 2: Ayapata – LLulluchapampa – Dead Woman Pass – Pacaymayo – Runku Rakay – Chakicocha.
Today, we’ll wake you early with coca tea, have breakfast, and start hiking early to benefit from the cooler temperatures and shade from the trees and mountains. As we begin the hike, the trail becomes steeper on the way to the Llullupampa rest stop, which takes about 1 hour and 30 minutes. This is the last opportunity to buy water, Gatorade, snacks, or beer from local vendors, as no further shops are available beyond this point.
After resting in Llulluchapampa, we will continue our hike for about 2 hours toward the Dead Woman’s Pass, which reaches an altitude of 4,200 meters (13,779 feet). As we climb higher, the landscape will change from lush greenery to open highlands.
Hiking to Dead Woman’s Pass is the most challenging part of our Inca Trail tours 4 day, but the view is worth it. We will pass through different ecological zones of the Inca Trail in Peru and see the variety of microclimates in the area. When we reach the top, we will have stunning views of snow-capped mountains. Then, we will hike downhill for about two hours to the Pacaymayo, which is at 3,600 meters (11,800 feet) where we will have our lunch.
After lunch, we’ll continue hiking all uphill to the Runkurakay pass (Second highest point of the Inca Trail Expeditions), which takes about 2 hours. On the way, we’ll stop at the Inca site, Runcu Rakay for explanation. After crossing the pass, we’ll descend continuing your Inca Trail tour 4 days to Sayacmarca, where we’ll have a tour. Then, it’s just a 20-minute walk to our second campsite at Chaquicocha (3600 meters). After dinner, if you’re not too tired, we can enjoy some stargazing and explore Inca constellations under the pristine Southern Hemisphere sky.
- Elevation Gain: 1272 m / 4,173 ft.
- Elevation Loose: 1055 m / 3,461 feet.
- Campsite Altitude: 3,550m(11,646ft)
- Highest altitude: 4,195m(13,763ft)
- Distance: 10 km / 6.21 miles
- Hiking time: 8 – 9 hours
- Accommodation: Camping
- Difficulty: Difficult.
Day 3: Chaquicocha – Phuyupatamarca – Inti Pata – Wiñaywayna.
Our third day really is a highlight since we’ll see the hidden archaeological gems only accessible on these Inca Trail guided tours. We’ll start the day with a healthy breakfast. After that, our journey begins as we hike from Chakicocha to Phuyupatamarca. The first part of the trail is called the “Peruvian flat,” which means it has both uphill and downhill sections. We’ll hike for about two hours through beautiful nature, where we can see colorful orchids and maybe some wildlife only found Inca trails in Peru. On our left side, we’ll have views of the Salkantay Glacier, the second highest mountain in the region.
When we reach Phuyupatamarca, we’ll be rewarded with stunning views of the Urubamba River and the Machu Picchu mountain — although the Machu Picchu ruins will still be hidden from view. From there, the trail goes downhill for about three hours until we reach Intipata. This part of the hike takes us through the rainforest. Along the way, we’ll visit two famous Inca sites: Phuyupatamarca and Intipata.
We’ll end the day at our campsite, which is just a short walk from the Wiñay Wayna archaeological site. After lunch, you’ll have some free time to rest or explore. Later, we’ll visit Wiñay Wayna, considered one of the most beautiful spots on the entire Inca Trail. In the evening, we’ll return to camp for dinner and take a moment to thank our porters and cook, who helped us throughout our 4 Day Inca Trail hike to Machu Picchu.
- Elevation Gain: 239 m / 784 ft.
- Elevation Loose: 1096 m / 3,595 feet.
- Campsite Altitude: 2679 m – 8,789 ft
- Highest altitude: 3652 m – 11,981 ft
- Distance: 09 km / 5.59 miles
- Hiking time: 5 – 6 hours
- Accommodation: Camping
- Difficulty: Moderate.
Day 4: Wiñaywayna – Machupicchu – Aguas Calientes – Cusco
Today, your dream of visiting Machu Picchu is about to come true! After an early breakfast, we will embark on the final stretch of the Inca Trail trek 4 days towards the lost city of Machu Picchu. Our journey begins with an early morning check-in at the control center, followed by a hike leading us to Inti Punku, also known as the Sun Gate—the gateway to the Inca Trail. From this vantage point, we will gaze upon the awe-inspiring and magnificent wonder of Machu Picchu in all its glory.
After enjoying the view of the Citadel from the Sun Gate, we will begin our hike westward toward Machu Picchu, which will take approximately 45 minutes. Upon reaching the site, we will enter Machu Picchu from the upper section. We will follow Circuit 1, where you will have the opportunity to see Machu Picchu from the viewpoint and take panoramic photographs with the Citadel in the background. Afterward, we will hike down to the Machu Picchu checkpoint to register our entrance and use the restroom before reentering the site
After passing the checkpoint, we will enjoy a private, two-hour guided tour of the sacred city, following Circuit 3. During this tour, we will visit key landmarks, including the Temple of the Sun, the Water Fountains, the Sacred Rock, Callancas, the Temple of the Condor, and the Inca storage facilities. After our private tour of Machu Picchu, we will take the bus down to Aguas Calientes for lunch. Here, you can relax and explore the town before boarding the train back to Ollantaytambo. Upon arrival in Ollantaytambo, a member of our Pureq Travel team will meet you and escort you back to Cusco, arriving at approximately 7:00 p.m. This is the end of our Inca Trail hiking tours.
- Elevation Gain: 185 m / 606 ft.
- Elevation Loss: 451 m / 1,479 feet.
- Distance: 7 km / 4.35 miles.
- Hiking Time: 2 – 3 hours.
- Lowest Elevation: 2,401 m / 7,871 ft.
- Highest Elevation: 2701 m / 8,857 ft.
- Difficulty: Moderate.
- Highlight: Sun Gate and Machu Picchu.
- Weather: Warm and Clearer Skies.
- Includes
- Professional licensed guide
- Inca Trail permits and Machu Picchu entrance
- Pick-up and drop-off in Cusco
- Private transportation to Km 82
- All meals during the trek (except last lunch)
- Camping equipment and tents
- Porters and chef
- Train and bus tickets
- First-aid kit and oxygen tank
- Not Included
- Lunch on Day 4
- Hot springs in Aguas Calientes
- Travel insurance
- Tips (optional)
Info:
The Peruvian Ministry of Culture and SERNANP are in charge of all regulations of the Inca Trail and Machu Picchu, including permits and campsites. To access the Classic Inca Trail trek, you have to have a permit that matches your FULL NAME, PASSPORT NUMBER, NATIONALITY, and AGE issued by the Ministry of Culture.
A maximum of 500 people per day are allowed to access the Classic Inca Trail 4 days. This number includes all support staff such as authorized porters, cooks, and tour guides – and is tightly controlled. When the Inca Trail reaches its capacity of 500 visitors, the trail is closed-off for the day and we won’t be able to make any further reservations. Booking are not held on the trail and all permits must be bought a year in advance, if possible.
Only licensed Inca Trail Travel companies like Pureq Travel can secure Inca Trail permits, and those permits are not transferable in date or name at any time. If you are not able to start your Inca Trail hike on your start date, it is not possible to transfer the permit to someone else. Whether you need to change your start date, you have to make sure permits are still available for the new date and buy a new permit. These are all rules of the government of Peru that all Travel Agencies need to follow. If permits for Inca Trail Machu Picchu hike are sold out for your desired start date, you can find many other treks that lead to Machu Picchu such as the Salkantay Trek, Inca Quarry Trek and Lares Trek. We can help find the perfect trek for you.
How Can I Book With Pureq Travel?
In order to book your Inca Trail 4 days, Click on the BOOK NOW button above and then select the day of your departure. Then you need to fill out all your personal information (for each participant). The last step is completing payment which you can do with your credit or debit card. If you want to learn how to make a booking on our booking platform, Click Here for a step-by-step guide.
On the booking platform, you will also find the extras. This includes Huayna Picchu Mountain, Vistadome Train, Air Mattresses, Sleeping Bags, and Trekking Poles. You have to book Huayna Picchu and the Vistadome together with your Inca Trail deposit because those permits run out fast like Inca Trail permits. However, You can rent a sleeping bag, inflatable mattress, and walking sticks here in Cusco at our office 1 day before your Machu Picchu trekking Tours.
Once your Inca Trail permits are in our hands, we will send you a confirmation that everything is 100% organized. All start dates, once confirmed, are guaranteed.
When Is The Best Time To Hike Inca Trail 4 Days?
The best time to hike the Inca Trail for four days is generally considered to be from May to August, as these months fall within the dry season. However, each month offers a unique experience, which is why we have created a detailed blog post for each month, outlining the pros and cons of hiking the Inca Trail during that time. Each blog post also includes a video showcasing the landscape of the trail for that specific month. Click on the month links—January, February, March, April, May, June, July, August, September, October, November, and December—to explore more.
What Circuit Is Included In Your Inca Trail 4 Day Trek?
On our Inca Trail 4-day hike, it is included Circuit 1 – Ruta Terraza Superior and Circuit 3 – Ruta Realeza Diseñada. Upon arrival at the Sungate, you will hike directly to the upper terrace to capture the iconic photograph of Machu Picchu. From there, you will follow Circuit 1, exploring the magnificent terraces and then exiting Machu Picchu. After a brief exit, you will reenter to follow Circuit 3, which leads you through the most significant temples and structures of this ancient Incan city. This meticulously planned route ensures that you experience the grandeur and historical significance of Machu Picchu from multiple perspectives.
Can I Store My Luggage At Your Office?
Yes! During the Inca Trail 4 day trek to Machu Picchu, you can store your luggage at our office. Please only bring what you will need during your hike.
Is There A Waiting List Available For Trekking Dates That Are Already Fully Booked?
Yes, there is a waiting list for Inca Trail tours to Machu Picchu. However, new tickets usually become available 2 to 5 days before the trek starts. This is because some people get sick when they arrive in Cusco and have to cancel their Inca Trail trip.
What About The Outstanding Balance?
The outstanding balance, you should pay 2 days before your departure at our office (which is located on Marquez Street 250, Second Floor, Office 03, in the Historic Centre of Cusco). Our office hours are in the morning from 9:00 am – 1:00 pm and in the afternoon from 3:00 pm – 7:00 pm. You can also pay us with a Credit Card (a 5% service fee applies). Please let us know what you prefer. If you want to pay with Cash, you should pay us 2 days prior to your departure.
Can I Stay An Extra Night In Aguas Calientes?
Yes, you can stay an extra night in Aguas Calientes after your Inca Trail hike tours. Just let the organizer know when you book, so we can arrange your train ticket and transportation from Ollantaytambo to Cusco on the fifth day at no extra charge. After your guided tour of Machu Picchu in the afternoon, you can visit the hot springs. Remember to book your own hotel in Aguas Calientes, or if you’d like, we can book a 3-star hotel (Tara Machu Picchu) for an extra $90.
May I Change The Departure Date After The Permits Have Been Bought?
Yes, it is possible. However we have to buy another Inca Trail permit for your new desired date, and we will also have to pay a penalty to change train tickets. So the extra cost to change the departure date is $100 per person.
Note: If you want to change your departure date, you have to first see our availability for your new departure date. If there is no availability for your new departure date, then it will not be possible.
Do I Need To Bring My Original Passport On The Tour?
Yes! You must bring your original passport and the same passport you sent us to reserve your Inca Trail permit. The guards will check the passport 3 times on the Inca Trail, once at Machu Picchu checkpoint as well as when you board the train.
What Happens With Our Duffle Bags On Day 4?
On day 4, all the porters will leave the campsite at 4:00 am to catch the train at 5:30 am back to Ollantaytambo. However, some of our porters will hike to Aguas Calientes bringing the duffle bags where they will leave them in our secure storage point. After visiting Machu Picchu you will head down to Aguas Calientes and pick up your duffle bags, before going to the train station to take the train to Ollantaytambo.
What Is The Schedule Of My Train Ticket?
We usually book return train tickets at 2:55 pm or 3:20 pm for our Inca Trail tours, so you arrive in Cusco at 7:30 pm. This means you will have enough time to sleep and do any tour the next day, such as to Rainbow Mountain.
Can I Stay In The Sacred Valley For My Inca Trail 4-Day Hike?
Yes, you can stay in Urubamba or Ollantaytambo for your trek to Machu Picchu 4 day 3 nights. By staying in the Sacred Valley, We will pick you up 1 hour and a half after the Cusco pick-up.
If I Cancel My Inca Trail Machu Picchu 4 Day, Will I Get A Refund?
In case our country closes its borders, we refund you all the deposit. But if you don’t make it to our country for whatever other reason (such as getting sick, missing your flight, there is a strike or natural disaster etc). You will lose USD $200 automatically. Once we buy the Inca Trail permit, it unfortunately becomes non-refundable and non-transferable – even for ourselves. The entity in charge of issuing the Inca Trail permits is the Ministry of Culture of Peru. They don’t provide any refunds.
We understand that nothing is guaranteed and things may change, therefore we will do our best to be reasonable and charge you only for things that we have already spent and cannot reclaim ourselves.
What Time Will We Arrive To Machu Picchu On Day 4?
Our groups reach the Sun Gate at 7:00 am, it will take around 45 minutes to get from the Sun Gate to Machu Picchu – so you will get to Machu Picchu at 8:00 am.
Will Water Be Provided In Your Inca Trail Tours?
You will need to buy 2 liters of water only for the first day. From the second onwards, we will provide you with boiled water 3 times a day; after breakfast, at lunch and at dinner.
What Kind Of Reusable Water Bottles Should We Bring On The Hike?
Starting in March 2022, single-use plastic water bottles and other plastic waste are prohibited on the Inca Trail hike Peru. You must bring your reusable water bottles to fill-up with the water that we provide you. You can buy a bladder hard shell bottle or pouch – whichever is more convenient for you.
Is There An Age Limit For The Inca Trail Hike?
There is no age limit for the Inca Trail 4-day hike. We at Pureq Travel recommend that the minimum age should be 8 because some steep sections would be difficult for little legs.
Where Can I Buy Trekking Equipment For My Inca Trail 4 Days?
There are many stores in cusco city that sell trekking equipment. You can find in around the main square for example in procuradores and plateros Street and tatto shops in regocijo Street that sell original brands. Since they are in city center the prices are more expensive. if you have more time, you can go to Real plaza where you will find more cheaper trekking equipment since. To get there you need to take a taxi with 8 to 10 soles.
Do I Need Any Vaccine To Hike Inca Trail?
You do not need any vaccines to hike in our Inca Trail trips. Many people asked us if we needed a vaccine for yellow fever, but the truth is, it is not necessary. During the third and fourth days of the hike, we will walk through a part of the jungle, but there have not been any cases of yellow fever reported in that area. So, you can enjoy the hike without worrying about getting a yellow fever vaccine.
How Many Kilos Are We Allowed To Carry On The Inca Trail Treks?
There is no weight limit, and you can either carry heavy weights or light weights. However, the porters should carry no more than 20 kilograms.
How Can I Prepare For The Altitude And Avoid Altitude Sickness?
To avoid altitude sickness, we highly recommend you arrive in Cusco at least 2 days in advance. On the first day, you can walk around the city visiting some museums and local markets, or you can take a tour around Cusco. On the second day, you can hike to Cristo Blanco. It is 3 km from Cusco and is all uphill which is a good test. You can also take the Sacred Valley tour to visit some Inca sites outside of Cusco.
Also during the first day, try to eat soft foods. If you eat heavy foods, the oxygen will go to your stomach instead of your brain which can cause nausea.
Is There Any Location Where I Can Plug And Charge My Electronic Devices On The Inca Trail Hike Tours?
There are no electricity facilities at any campsite, so we recommend taking extra portable battery packs/power banks.
What Is The Temperature Rating Of Pureq Travel Sleeping Bags?
We rent mummy-style sleeping bags that are usable at -15° C / 5° F. The brand is Mountain Hard Wear.
Which Campsites Do You Usually Book For Your Groups Of Machu Picchu Hiking Tours?
At the time of booking, we have 4 options to choose from. We always book option 1 or 2, and therefore you will spend the night at Wiñaywayna Campsite. It is located 2 hours away from Machu Picchu, so you will get to Machu Picchu nice and early.
We never choose Options 3 and 4 because you will spend the last night in Phuyupatamarca campsite. This campsite is located 6 hours from Machu Picchu – and means a tough last day to finish your hike.
After Finishing The Hike, Can I Visit Machu Picchu Following Circuit 2?
All the people who hike the Inca trail treks have to follow Circuit 3. None of the companies break these rules. However, if you want another circuit, then we can buy it for you. It costs an extra $45. So you will visit Machu Picchu 2 times.
You will have the guided tour in Machu Picchu from 9:00 am to 11:00 am with our guide. Then you will exit Machu Picchu where you can use the toilet, before re-entering at 11:00 am to follow the extra circuit that you bought. Of course, our guide will explain to you how to do Circuit 2 by yourself. To visit again, it takes another 1 hour and 30 minutes so you will finish touring the site at 12:30. Then you will take a bus to Aguas Calientes, arriving at approximately 1:00 pm.
Is It Worth Buying An Extra Machu Picchu Ticket?
50% of our customers who bought the extra ticket said it was not worth it, This is because, after the 4-day hike, they were tired and they didn’t enjoy visiting the site 2 times. The other 50% said that they enjoyed visiting Machu Picchu 2 times. In our opinion, it is not worth it, because you will have already seen many beautiful Inca sites along the route.
Why On Day 4 Does Everybody Wake Up At 3:30 Am?
All people who do the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu 4 day hike have to wake up very early (3:30 am) because there is only one train available for the porters in the entire day. This train stops at 5:45 a.m. on Km 107. So the porters have to catch this train. If they miss it, they have to wait until the next day which is not convenient for them. That’s why all people have to wake up very early and then hike for about 5 minutes to the checkpoint. You will wait for 2 hours until the gate is open at 5:30 a.m. If you don’t want to wake up early, we instead recommend heading on the 5-Day Inca Trail Tour.
Can I See The Sunrise In Machu Picchu?
The gate is open at 5:30 am. It takes around 1 hour and 20 minutes to get from Wiñaywayna gate to the Sun Gate – so you will get to the Sun gate at 6:50 am. The sunrise in Machu Picchu is usually from 6 a.m. to 6:40 a.m., which means you won’t see the sunrise in Machu Picchu. If another tour company promises that you will see the sunrise here – it is a lie!
Do I Need Walking Sticks Even Though I’m Young, In Good Shape, And Used To Hiking A Lot?
We highly recommend walking sticks for people who have knee problems because they protect your knees from the impact of walking, especially when hiking downhill. We also recommend them for people who don’t have much experience hiking because they help with stability on uneven trails. However, if you have experience hiking without them, then you don’t need them.
If I Get Sick One Day Before My Departure And Cancel My Trip, Can I Use My 4-Day Permit To Hike The Inca Trail 2 Days And Catch Up With My Group?
Unfortunately, it is not possible. If you want to hike the Inca Trail 2 days after canceling the Inca Trail 4 days, we need to buy the 2-day Inca trail permit to hike the 2-day route. So you need to pay again separately for the 2-day tour. It’s important to know that even if you decide to hike the 2 day Inca trail route, you can’t catch up with the group because you will get to Machu Picchu in the afternoon – whilst those who hike the 4-day option get to Machu Picchu will arrive in the morning.
If I Get Sick One Day Before My Departure And Cancel My Trip, Can I Use My 4-Day Permit To Visit Machu Picchu And Catch Up With My Group?
Yes, it is possible. In case you cancel your trip one day before your departure or you return from the trail on day 1, we will help you organize your Machu Picchu Tour. You can do a 1-day trip or a 2-day tour to Machu Picchu. If you are doing a day trip, you will need to buy a train ticket from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes ($70 per person), transportation from Cusco to Ollantaytambo ($30 in total), as well as a ticket from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu ($12 per person). In case you want to stay overnight, you will need to add a hotel in Aguas Calientes which costs roughly anywhere from $30-90 (we recommend the Tara Machu Picchu which is a 3-star hotel).
You will still use things that were already included in your Inca Trail 4-day package, such as your Machu Picchu ticket, bus ticket from Mapi to Aguas Calientes, train ticket from Aguas Calientes as well as your transportation from Cusco to Ollantaytambo.
Can We Rent Sleeping Bags And Walking Sticks Last Minute – Or Does Everything Need To Be Rented Up-Front When Booking?
You don’t need to book the walking sticks and sleeping bags in advance. We have plenty of them so you can rent them one day before your trip in our office after the briefing session.
We Are 5 People, However 3 Of Us Want To Hike The Inca Trail Whilst The Other 2 Would Like To Take The Train – Can We Visit Machu Picchu Together?
We would like to accommodate all of you in the same group if possible. However, those hiking the Inca Trail must follow Circuit 3 to visit Machu Picchu, while those taking the train will follow Circuit 2. When purchasing permits for the Inca Trail, the Machu Picchu ticket is automatically included with Circuit 3. To resolve this, we would buy additional Machu Picchu tickets with Circuit 2 for those hiking the Inca Trail 4 days so that you can all visit Machu Picchu together. There is an extra cost of $45 for the additional ticket. Please note that you will leave your Inca Trail group to visit Machu Picchu with the rest of your friends who took the train – heading with their guide around the sacred site.
What Is The Shower Situation On Inca Trail?
All campsites provide cold showers. On the first night at the Wayllabamba campsite, there are both cold and hot showers available, with local residents offering the hot showers for rent at a cost of 5 soles for a cold shower and 10 soles for a hot one. The second campsite, Pacaymayo, has public showers, but they are extremely cold, and it is not recommended to use them unless you are accustomed to cold showers. On the third night at Wiñaywayna, the showers are also cold, but due to the lower altitude, the water is warmer, making it more feasible to shower.
If your campsites are Ayapata, Chakicocha, and Wiñaywayna, only cold showers are available. As mentioned earlier, it is not advisable to shower on the first and second nights due to the extremely cold temperatures, which could lead to catch a cold. Showering is recommended only on the last night, when the campsite is at a lower altitude.
What is the Toilet Situation On The Inca Trail 4 Days?
We provide portable toilets at the campsites. However, public toilets are available along the entire Inca Trail, typically spaced about every two hours of hiking. On the first day, local residents offer access to their private toilets for a fee, so it is advisable to carry coins; each use costs 1 sol, and these toilets are generally clean. From the second day onward, only public toilets are available. If you are among the first hikers to use them, you will find them clean, but those arriving later in the day may find them less so, as they are cleaned only once daily. In case of emergencies where you need to use the outdoors, we strongly encourage you to bring a plastic bag to collect any used toilet paper.
Can I Book My Inca Trail 4 Day In A Last Minute?
Yes, it is possible to book the 4-day Inca Trail to Machu Picch at the last minute. Sometimes, people arrive in Cusco planning to do the Inca Trail but end up feeling unwell and cancel their Inca Trail reservations. When this happens, those spots become available for new bookings. However, cancellations don’t happen every day, so you would need some luck to find a permit for your preferred date at the last minute.
We Are Group More Than 10 People, Can You Organize The Inca Trail For Our Bigger Group?
Of course, we will arrange your Inca Trail vacation for your family or group of friends. Since there are more than 10 people in your group, we will organize a private Inca Trail tour just for you, without including other groups.
Do You Have Group Discount?
Yes, we will give a discount for groups of more than 4 people on our 4 day Inca Trail hike to Machu Picchu. The discount amount depends on how many people are in your group. Please send us a message, and we will tell you the discounted price.
When To Book Inca Trail?
If you plan to hike the Inca Trail for 4 days during the busy months of May, June, July, or August, we suggest booking at least 8 months ahead because the best campsites and permits fill up quickly. If you want to hike during the shoulder season in April, September, October, or November, you should book at least 4 months in advance. For the rainy season in December, January, and March, you can book up to 2 months in advance, and in January, you might even find tickets available when you arrive in Cusco.
Is The Reason You Can Take Maximum 10 People?
We used to take a maximum of 8 people on our 4 day Machu Picchu tours. After getting feedback from our customers, we decided to increase the group size to 10. With 8 people, we could only have one guide for the group. This made it hard for the guide to help everyone if some hikers were faster and others were slower. According to the rules for the Inca Trail, if there are more than 9 people, we can have 2 guides. That’s why we now allow up to 10 people in a group.
Can I Hire An Extra Porter For My Inca Trail?
We understand that the 7 kilograms of personal belongings included in your package may not be enough for your needs. If you need to carry more, you can hire extra porters from us to help during your Inca Trail trek. Please note that you will only have access to these extra belongings at the campsite, as the porters walk faster than the group and will go ahead. Below, we have listed the prices for carrying extra belongings.
- 5 kilograms: $50 USD
- 10 kilograms: $100 USD
- 15 kilogramgs: $150 USD
Why is Machu Picchu Mountain not listed as an add-on?
You are correct — we do not offer Machu Picchu Mountain as an add-on for our 4-day Inca Trail tour. This is because our guided tour of the Machu Picchu citadel typically concludes around 11:30 a.m., whereas the latest entry time for Machu Picchu Mountain is 9:59 a.m. As a result, it is not feasible to include both activities within the same schedule.
However, if you still wish to climb Machu Picchu Mountain after completing the Inca Trail, it is possible, but please note that doing so would mean skipping the guided tour of the citadel. Should you prefer this option, please contact us directly, and we will provide you with a separate link to purchase tickets for the Machu Picchu Mountain hike.
For Your 4-Day Inca Trail Journey, Do You Typically Book Your Train Tickets With Peru Rail Or The Inca Rail Train Company?
We usually work with Peru Rail because they offer more frequent departures. Additionally, in the event of strikes or delays, Peru Rail is often the first to resume service. For these reasons, we prefer to collaborate with them.
How Much Will The Price Be For Our Inca Trail 4 Day Trek In 2026?
Our Price for the next year 2026 will be $820 per person for our Inca Trail experience.
