Trip snapshot

Summary

The Classic Inca Trail is one of the most unforgettable ways to reach Machu Picchu. Over four days, you will follow ancient Inca paths, cross breathtaking mountain landscapes, explore archaeological sites, and walk through valleys and cloud forests before arriving at the famous Sun Gate.

More than a trek, this is a journey through history, nature, and the heart of the Andes. Each day brings new scenery and challenges, making your arrival at Machu Picchu even more meaningful.

With Anway Experience, every detail is carefully organized. Our guides, chefs, porters, and support team will accompany you throughout the journey, ensuring a safe, comfortable, and memorable adventure.

Why it stands out

  • ✓ Hike the famous Classic Inca Trail to Machu Picchu.
  • ✓ Follow ancient paths built by the Incas.
  • ✓ Visit exclusive archaeological sites along the route.

Day by day route

Day 01

Cusco – Km 82 – Llactapata – Ayapata

Your adventure begins first thing in the morning with a pickup at your hotel. We’ll travel through the beautiful Sacred Valley, enjoying views of the mountains, the local villages, the farmlands, and the Urubamba River.Once we arrive at km 82, the official starting point of the Inca Trail, we’ll complete the registration process and begin our first day of hiking. The first section of the trail is a magnificent introduction to the experience. You’ll hike at a comfortable pace while enjoying incredible views and learning about the history of this ancient route. During the day, we’ll visit Llactapata, an important archaeological site where your guide will explain its role within the Inca trail system.After continuing along the trail, we’ll arrive at our first campsite in the Ayapata area, where our team will have everything ready for you to rest and enjoy your first night in the Andes.Distance: Approximately 14 km / 8.7 milesDifficulty: ModerateMeals included: Lunch and dinnerAccommodations: Campsite

Day 02

Ayapata – Dead Woman’s Pass – Runkurakay – Sayacmarca – Chaquicocha

<p>The highlight of the day is reaching Dead Woman’s Pass, the highest point of the Classic Inca Trail at 4,215 m / 13,828 ft.<br>The climb requires effort and patience, but reaching the top is one of the most rewarding moments of the journey. From here, you’ll enjoy impressive mountain views before continuing toward the Pacaymayo Valley.<br>Later, we’ll visit Runkurakay and Sayacmarca, two remarkable archaeological sites located along the original Inca route.<br>The day ends at the Chaquicocha campsite, where you can rest and recover after one of the most eventful days of the trek.</p><p><strong>Distance:</strong> Approximately 16 km / 9.9 miles<br><strong>Difficulty: </strong>Challenging<br><strong>Meals Included:</strong> Breakfast, lunch, and dinner<br><strong>Accommodation: </strong>Campsite</p>

Day 03

Chaquicocha – Phuyupatamarca – Wiñaywayna

<p>After breakfast at the campsite, we will continue our journey through one of the most beautiful sections of the Classic Inca Trail.<br>This part of the route is surrounded by incredible Andean landscapes, featuring a combination of mountains, cloud forests, and ancient stone paths that showcase the impressive work of the Inca civilization.<br>During the hike, we will reach Phuyupatamarca, known as “The Place Above the Clouds.” Located high in the mountains, this archaeological site offers breathtaking views of the surrounding valleys and mountains. Depending on weather conditions, you may enjoy a spectacular panorama of the Andes.<br>Continuing downhill, we’ll follow original Inca stairways toward Wiñay Wayna, one of the most impressive archaeological sites along the entire trail.<br>Wiñay Wayna is famous for its beautiful terraces, fountains, and stone structures built into the mountainside. Many travelers consider this place one of the highlights of the trek because of its beauty, history, and peaceful atmosphere.<br>After visiting this incredible site, we will continue to our final campsite near Wiñay Wayna. This will be our last night on the trail, and your guide will provide final instructions for the next morning, when we will begin the unforgettable journey toward Machu Picchu.</p><p><strong>Distance: </strong>Approximately 10 km / 6.2 miles<br><strong>Difficulty:</strong> Moderate<br><strong>Meals Included:</strong> Breakfast, lunch, and dinner<br><strong>Accommodation: </strong>Campsite</p>

Day 04

Wiñay Wayna – Sun Gate – Machu Picchu – Cusco

<p>The final day of the Classic Inca Trail begins very early. After breakfast, we will set out on our last hike toward the famous Sun Gate (Inti Punku), the traditional entrance used by travelers arriving at Machu Picchu via the Inca Trail.<br>After several days of walking along ancient paths, through mountains, and past archaeological sites, reaching the Sun Gate is one of the most emotional moments of the entire experience.<br>From this viewpoint, you’ll enjoy your first panoramic view of Machu Picchu, surrounded by the impressive Andes mountains. This is the moment many travelers have been waiting for—the reward for completing one of the most famous trekking routes in the world.<br>After taking photos and enjoying the view, we will continue descending toward Machu Picchu. Your professional guide will lead you through the citadel, explaining the history, architecture, and significance of this incredible Inca sanctuary.<br>The tour will follow the confirmed entry route designated by the Ministry of Culture.<br>After exploring Machu Picchu, we’ll take the bus down to Aguas Calientes, where you’ll have free time for lunch before boarding the return train to Ollantaytambo.<br>Upon arrival, our transportation will take you back to Cusco, where your unforgettable Classic Inca Trail experience with Anway Experience will come to an end.</p><p><strong>Distance:</strong> Approximately 6 km / 3.7 miles<br><strong>Difficulty:</strong> Easy to moderate<br><strong>Meals Included:</strong> Breakfast<br><strong>Accommodation:</strong> Not included (return to Cusco)</p>

Inca Trail Hike to Machu Picchu 4 Days

4 days / 3 nights

From$750per person
Group size1-16 travelers
Activity levelMedio

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An unforgettable experience. The guides were incredible and every detail was carefully planned.

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The best tour we have ever done. Flawless organization and breathtaking landscapes.

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