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Join the unforgettable Classic Inca Trail to Machu Picchu with Andean Path Travel. Over four incredible days, you’ll walk through lush cloud forests, explore ancient Inca sites, and enjoy breathtaking mountain views. The journey completes at sunrise at the Sun Gate, revealing the majestic Machu Picchu.
As a 100% Peruvian-owned company, we offer small-group treks with local guides, ensuring personalized service and an authentic cultural experience. Get ready for a cherished adventure in Peru with our Classic Inca Trail.
The 4 day Inca trail hike to Machu Picchu is one of the premier hiking routes in Peru and worldwide. This trail offers mountain enthusiasts a chance to walk the original Inca paths. This provides stunning views of the snow-capped Urubamba and Vilcabamba Mountain ranges.
Hikers will traverse lush tropical forests, surrounded by diverse Andean flora and fauna. They can enjoy the captivating starry skies of the Southern Hemisphere at night. This trail is historically significant as it was built for religious purposes, allowing pilgrims and Incan royalty to reach Machu Picchu. Upon completion, hikers will enter through the Sun Gate, where they can admire breathtaking views of this ancient archaeological site.
The Classic Inca Trail offers an unforgettable experience due to its unique beauty and historical relevance. Did you know that it is placed among the top ten hiking routes globally? We also have a shorter two-day trek, known as the Short Inca Trail is available for those with limited time.
We are a reliable travel company offering excellent tour services for individuals and groups. Check out our outstanding reviews on TripAdvisor to see what our satisfied customers say.
Our guide will accompany you every step of the trail. We offer a door-to-door service from Cusco to ensure your safe return. We operate our tours personally, without relying on third-party providers, and keep groups small with 2 to 10 people for a more personalized experience.
As a 100% locally owned and fully licensed Inca Trail operator, we employ knowledgeable local staff to provide the best experience while giving back to local communities. A personal porter is included in the price.
Witness the awe-inspiring vistas of Veronica Mountain Peak and the impressive mountain ranges of Urubamba. Explore the distinctive cloud forests and verdant vegetation that characterize this region. Additionally, discover the magnificent lakes and expansive grasslands, alongside remarkable Inca archaeological sites that highlight the rich cultural heritage. Engage in a deep historical and cultural immersion into the civilizations of Peru. Marvel at the picturesque streams and waterfalls, and indulge in the exquisite flavors of Peruvian cuisine. Finally, experience the extraordinary wonder of Machu Picchu, referred to as “Llaqta.”
The briefing for your Classic Inca Trail expedition will take place one or two days prior to your trek. You will meet your professional tour guide during this session at your hotel, where you are encouraged to ask any final questions regarding the four-day hike.
Trip Style: This journey offers a unique blend of adventure and cultural immersion, allowing travelers to explore both the natural beauty and rich history of the region.
Length of Tour: The trip spans 4 days and 3 nights, providing ample time to experience the breathtaking landscapes and historical sites along the trail.
Frequency: The tour operates from March to January each year, as the Inca Trail is closed for maintenance during February. This schedule ensures the best possible conditions for hiking and exploration.
Group Size: The adventure is designed for small groups, accommodating a minimum of 2 people and a maximum of 10. This intimate setting fosters a personal experience, allowing for deeper connections with fellow travelers and local guides.
Physical Grading: The trek is rated as moderate to challenging, suitable for individuals with a reasonable level of fitness. Participants should be prepared for varied terrain and altitudinal changes.
Total Distance Hiked: Over the course of the trip, participants will hike a total of 45 kilometers (approximately 28 miles), providing opportunities to experience stunning vistas, ancient ruins, and local flora and fauna.
Starting Altitude: The journey begins at an altitude of 2,900 meters (9,512 feet), where hikers can acclimate to the altitude while enjoying spectacular views and the vibrant ecosystem.
Maximum Altitude: The trek reaches a maximum altitude of 4,215 meters (13,910 feet), which presents both a challenge and a rewarding experience. At this height, hikers can enjoy unparalleled panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
This detailed description offers a comprehensive overview of the trekking experience, highlighting both the challenges and the incredible cultural and historical significance of the journey.
DAY – 1
Day | Route | Meals Included |
Day 1: | Cusco to Huayllabamba (82 Km) | Lunch/Dinner |
Start your journey in Cusco and travel to Huayllabamba. Enjoy scenic views and charming villages along the way. After a packed lunch in nature, set up camp and enjoy dinner with your group, sharing excitement for the trek ahead.
DAY – 2
Day | Route | Meals Included |
Day 2: | Huayllabamba to Pacaymayo | Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner |
After breakfast, trek towards the first pass, surrounded by stunning landscapes. Stop for lunch before descending to Pacaymayo, where you’ll camp for the night. Enjoy dinner and relax under the stars.
DAY – 3
Day | Route | Meals Included |
Day 3: | Pacaymayo to Winay Huayna | Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner |
Begin your ascent to the second pass after breakfast, taking in breathtaking views and exploring Incan ruins. Stop for lunch along the way before reaching Winay Huayna campsite, where a warm dinner awaits.
DAY – 4
Day | Route | Meals Included |
Day 4: | Explore Machu Picchu – Return to Cusco | Breakfast |
After an early breakfast, hike to Machu Picchu and marvel at this incredible site. Enjoy a guided tour and some free time before returning to Cusco by train, concluding your memorable adventure.
Your guide will pick you up from your hotel at approximately 5:30 AM for a two-hour drive to Ollantaytambo, where we will have a quick breakfast. We will then continue for another hour to the starting point of the Classic Inca Trail to Machu Picchu. After preparing our belongings and passing through a control point, the hike begins.
We’ll follow a gently undulating path for 1.5 hours, then gradually ascend for another half hour to the Incan site of Llactapata, where we can enjoy views of the snow-capped Veronica mountain peak. After lunch, we’ll hike for another two and half hours to our camping site at Huayllabamba.
We will conclude our day with afternoon tea and a chance to meet the porters who will assist us.
Category | Details |
WALKING DISTANCE: | 5 to 6 hours |
STARTING ELEVATION: | 2,800 m / 8,765 ft |
HIGHEST ELEVATION: | 3,000 m / 9,840 ft |
DIFFICULTY: | Moderate |
OVERNIGHT: | Camping |
MEALS INCLUDED: | Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner (with a snack and afternoon tea) |
ACCOMMODATION: | Camping |
We will wake up at approximately 5:30 AM. After breakfast, we’ll hike to Dead Woman’s Pass at 4,215 meters (13,828 feet), the highest point on the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu. Along the way, we’ll enjoy the beautiful forest and stunning scenery. Once we reach the pass, we’ll take in the breathtaking mountain views before descending to our camping site at Pacaymayo for lunch and a relaxing afternoon.
Category | Details |
WALKING DISTANCE: | 7 to 8 hours |
STARTING ELEVATION: | 3,000 m / 9,840 ft |
HIGHEST ELEVATION: | 4,215 m / 13,828 ft |
OVERNIGHT: | Camping |
DIFFICULTY: | Challenging |
MEALS INCLUDED: | Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner (including a snack and afternoon tea) |
ACCOMMODATION: | Camping |
We start our day early with a hearty breakfast before hiking for two hours to the second mountain pass of the Classic Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, where we enjoy stunning views of the snow-capped Pumacillo peak.
After exploring the beautiful Incan site of Sayacmarka, we make our way to the third mountain pass and take a lunch break.
This day is highlighted by breathtaking views of Veronica Peak, the Vilcabamba range, and the Cloud Forest, along with visits to the Incan sites of Phuyupatamarka and Intipata. We conclude our hike with a descent to the Winay Huayna campsite.
Category | Details |
WALKING DISTANCE: | 9 to 10 hours |
STARTING ELEVATION: | 3,600 m / 11,896 ft |
HIGHEST ELEVATION: | 3,600 m / 12,465 ft |
OVERNIGHT ACCOMMODATION: | Camping |
DIFFICULTY: | Moderate |
MEALS INCLUDED: | Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner (with snacks and afternoon tea) |
We’ll start our trek early at 3:30 AM to catch the stunning sunrise at Machu Picchu. Entering through the Sun Gate (“Inti Punku”), we’ll enjoy breathtaking views before descending into the site. A knowledgeable local guide will lead a two-hour tour, after which you’ll have time to explore on your own.
Afterward, we’ll take a bus to Aguas Calientes and then catch a train to Ollantaytambo, followed by a private bus back to Cusco.
Category | Details |
WALKING DISTANCE: | 3 hours / 6 km |
STARTING ELEVATION: | 2,600 m / 7,956 ft |
HIGHEST ELEVATION: | 2,700 m / 8,233 ft |
OVERNIGHT: | Camping |
DIFFICULTY: | Moderate |
MEALS INCLUDED: | Breakfast |
Accommodation: | N/A |
Item / Service |
Professional English Speaking Tour Guide |
Assistant Tour Guide for groups of 9+ |
Chef (and Assistant Chef for groups of 9+) |
Porters for trekking |
6 kg of your personal items |
Pick-up from and Drop-off at your hotel |
Private bus from your hotel to 82 Km |
Entrance fee to Machu Picchu |
Bus from Machu Picchu ruins to Aguas Calientes |
Train back from Agua Calientes to Ollantaytambo |
Private bus from Ollantaytambo to Cusco |
Water (excluding the first 4 hours) (Bring your own first 4 hrs) |
4 Breakfasts, 3 Lunches, 3 Afternoon Snacks and 3 Dinners (If you have a dietary request such as vegetarian food please let us know in advance.)* |
Kitchen tent and Dining tent (With tables and chairs) |
Spacious 4 man tent (for every 2 trekkers) |
Sleeping mattress |
Oxygen bottle |
First aid kit |
Item / Service | Notes / Price |
Sleeping Bag | Rental US$ 20 |
Hiking poles | Rental US$ 15 |
Air mattress | Rental US$ 20 |
Lunch and Dinner on Day 4 | |
Entrance to Huayna Picchu Mountain or Machu Picchu Mountain | |
Tips |
Travel Insurance | You are strongly recommended to take out travel insurance for the duration of your Classic Inca Trail. |
Item / Service | Notes |
Original Passport | Required for entry to Inca Trail & Machu Picchu |
ISIC card (if student – for discount) | Carry valid student ID for discount eligibility |
Walking boots | Comfortable, broken-in boots recommended |
Waterproof jacket / rain poncho | Essential during rainy season |
Warm jacket | Nights can be very cold |
Hat and gloves | Protection against cold mornings |
T-shirts | Quick-dry material preferred |
Comfortable trousers | Trekking pants recommended |
Sun hat | Protects from strong sun |
Sun cream (factor 35 or higher) | High UV protection necessary |
Insect repellent | Mosquitoes are common on the trail |
Toiletries and hand sanitizer | Biodegradable products preferred |
Personal medication | Bring enough for the full trip |
Camera and film with extra batteries | Electricity limited on the trail |
Torch with spare batteries | Needed for early morning & night use |
Daypack (recommended 28L – larger backpacks not allowed inside Machu Picchu complex) | Big bags not allowed inside ruins |
Extra power bank | No charging points during trek |
Ear plugs | Campsites can be noisy |
Toiletries (duplicate – merge with above if needed) | Already included above – can remove |
Service Type | Description | Price (USD) |
Group Service | Price per person | US$ 865 (Adults) |
Private Service | Price per person | US$ 990 (Adults) |
Private Service | Solo hiker price | US$ 1500 (Adult) |
Important: Price includes up to 6 kilos of your personal belongings to be carried by the porters (NO need of extra Porter hire unlike other tour companies!)
Optional upgrade:
Service Type | Price (USD) |
Single Tent Supplement | US$ 35 |
Optional upgrade (Need to book in advance – subject to availability):
Extra Service | Price (USD) |
Machu Picchu Mt climbing | US$ 75 |
Huayna Picchu Mt climbing | US$ 75 |
Vistadome Train Aguas Calientes-Cusco | US$ 60 |
Extra Night in Aguas Calientes | Price depends on the type of Hotel desired |
How to book (Group or Private Service):
You can either book by emailing us or by using the Booking form provided on this site.
By e-mail: andeanpathtravel@gmail.com
Send us your Personal Details for Booking:
Field | Example / Format |
Full Name | First/Last Name |
Gender | Male / Female |
Nationality | Candian / American / … |
Passport Number | A1234567 |
Date of Birth | DD/MM/YYYY |
Student rate: In order to obtain this discount you must have a valid ISIC card.
Choosing the Inca Trail tour operator best suited for your needs is important for the safety and the quality of the experience you are seeking. We at Andean Path Travel are proud to be a 100% Peruvian-based trekking company focused on providing true Peruvian experiences with the Classic Inca Trail to Machu Picchu.
Our carefully selected group sizes allow us to provide personalized customer care. Our English-speaking guides are experts on the Inca heritage, culture, and nature, and with us, every step of the way becomes more than a trek; it is a story shared. With us, you don’t just hike; you embark on a journey that goes beyond miles.
We take care of everything you need to have a seamless trek, such as entrance tickets to Machu Picchu, porters, a chef, camping equipment, and meal catering that is specially prepared to your dietary requirements. Echoing our personal care value, a personal porter allowance is provided to assist with luggage collection during the trek at your wish.
While other tour operators work with numerous clients, who leads to a lack of focus on individual care, we provide meticulous attention to every detail. From hotel pick up in Cusco to your drop off after the Machu Picchu visit, we provide undivided attention to every detail for a flawless experience.
Choosing Andean Path Travel means that you experience the Classic Inca Trail with a reliable, passionate, and highly recommended operator, while supporting local communities.
The 4-day Classic Inca Trail package is an exciting adventure that includes a knowledgeable English-speaking guide and, for larger groups, an assistant guide. You’ll enjoy hassle-free trekking with porters to carry your gear and will be provided with 4 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 3 dinners, and snacks, along with purified water.
The package covers high-quality camping equipment, a comfy sleeping mattress, an oxygen bottle, and a first aid kit for safety. Transportation includes pick-up from your hotel, a bus ride to KM 82, and a scenic train back from Aguas Calientes, along with a shuttle bus to Cusco. Plus, your entrance fee to Machu Picchu and the bus ride from the ruins are included, ensuring a fantastic experience!
The package does not include personal items such as a sleeping bag, hiking poles, or an air mattress, though these can be rented. It also excludes lunch and dinner on Day 4, entrance to Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain, tips for staff, and travel insurance. Bringing your own coverage is strongly recommended.
You’ll need your original passport, comfortable hiking boots, and clothing layers for varied climates (waterproof jacket, warm jacket, t-shirts, trousers, gloves, sun hat). Essentials include sunblock, insect repellent, toiletries, medication, a camera, torch, extra batteries, and a power bank. A daypack of 28L is recommended, as larger bags are not permitted at Machu Picchu. Don’t forget personal items like hand sanitizer and earplugs for a restful night.
Yes! All meals are prepared by a professional chef with fresh local ingredients. You’ll enjoy hearty breakfasts, energizing lunches, afternoon snacks, and delicious dinners throughout the trek. If you have dietary requirements such as vegetarian, vegan, or gluten-free, simply let us know in advance, and we’ll make the necessary arrangements.
Andean Path Travel provides door-to-door service. You’ll be picked up from your hotel in Cusco and transported to KM 82, where the trek begins. After completing your hike, you’ll take a shuttle bus from Machu Picchu ruins to Aguas Calientes, then board a train to Ollantaytambo. From there, a private bus will return you to Cusco, ensuring a smooth and worry-free journey.