Machu Picchu

CLASSIC INCA TRAIL TO MACHU PICCHU

Hiking

What you'll do

Trek the 5-day Inca Trail adventure leading to the iconic Sun Gate's first breathtaking glimpse of Machu Picchu. Along the trek, uncover historic Inca ruins set against the backdrop of lush cloud forests, majestic Andean passes, and expansive scenic vistas, weaving together a tapestry of natural splendor and ancient mystique.

Itinerary

Day 1 – Arrival in Cusco

As soon as you arrive in Cusco, you’ll have a briefing with your guide at 6:00 PM, and you set into your hotel to rest after the journey. If you arrive earlier, enjoy a stroll through the city’s cobblestone streets, its mix of Inca and colonial architecture, and lively plazas. Have an early dinner and a good night’s sleep—your adventure begins the next morning. If you prefer, you may also start the trek from Urubamba or Ollantaytambo, arranging your transfer independently.

Day 2 – First Steps to Ayapata

We pick you up early from your stay in Cusco (3,400 m / 11,154 ft), Urubamba, or Ollantaytamb. Pick-up from Cusco will be from 4 to 4:30 AM, from Urubamba from 5:30 to 6 AM, and if you stay in Ollantaytambo, you get to sleep in a bit with your pick-up from 6:30 to 7 AM. These times will be confirmed at your briefing. Today's hike is a good warm-up. After passing the first checkpoint, you step onto one of the most legendary trails in the world. The walk eases you in gently, passing the impressive ruins of Patallacta, once an important Inca control point. The trail slowly climbs through valleys and small communities before reaching Ayapata, your first campsite at altitude. As the sun sets, you share hot drinks and dinner with the team, feeling both tired and proud—your Inca Trail journey is officially underway. Distance: 14 km (8.7 mi) | Elevation gain: +850 m (+2,789 ft) – 320 m (1,050 ft) | Time: 6–7 hours

Day 3 - Over the High Passes to Chaquiccocha (3,600 m)

You wake early and climb steadily toward Dead Woman’s Pass, the highest point of the trail. The effort is real, but the views over the Andes make every step worth it. After a short rest at the top, you descend into the Pacaymayu Valley before climbing again to Runcuraccay Pass, passing waterfalls and ancient ruins along the way. As the landscape shifts toward cloud forest, you reach Chaquiccocha, your campsite for the night. If energy allows, stargazing under the Southern Hemisphere sky is unforgettable. Distance: 16 km (9.9 mi) | Elevation gain: +1,200 m (+3,937 ft) – 1,000 m (3,281 ft) | Time: 7–8 hours

Day 4 - From the Clouds to Wiñay Wayna (2,600 m)

We start early again, waking up at 6.30 AM and enjoy the most beautiful day of the hike. We'll be walking through the jungle part of the trail called the Cloud Forest. We'll see great views before heading down to our last campsite near Wiñay Wayna (2,600 m / 8,530 ft). There's another cool Inca site here to check out after lunch. Then we will relax so that you are ready for your final day at Machu Picchu. At around 4:30 PM your guide will give you a short orientation, and you will visit the Inca ruins of Wiñay Wayna. Distance: 10 km (6.2 mi) | Elevation gain: +200 m (+656 ft) – 1,000 m (3,281 ft) | Time: 5 hours

Day 5 - To Machu Picchu!

You wake up before dawn for the moment you’ve been waiting for. After breakfast, you hike to the checkpoint and continue toward Intipunku, the legendary Sun Gate. As the light rises, Machu Picchu slowly appears below you—a breathtaking reward for every step taken. From here, you descend gently to the citadel for a guided tour through temples, and sacred spaces. After the visit, you take the bus to Aguas Calientes, enjoy lunch, and then travel by train and private transfer back to Cusco, arriving between 6:00 and 8:30 PM—tired, emotional, and forever changed.

Important stuff

From the highest peaks to the hidden trails, we've got your back

100% Guaranteed Departures

Once you book, your trip is guaranteed to run, allowing you to book your flights with confidence.

Flexible Changes

Want to change your departure date or trip? No problem—enjoy maximum flexibility to make changes up to 60 days before departure.

Comprehensive Insurance & Assistance

Travel with peace of mind. Our insurance package covers accidents and rescue during outdoor activities, medical expenses, and luggage protection, as well as trip cancellations and 24/7 medical assistance from our insurance partner.

100% Guaranteed Departures: Once you book, your trip is guaranteed to run, allowing you to book your flights with confidence.
Flexible Changes: Want to change your departure date or trip? No problem—enjoy maximum flexibility to make changes up to 60 days before departure.
Comprehensive Insurance & Assistance: Travel with peace of mind. Our insurance package covers accidents and rescue during outdoor activities, medical expenses, and luggage protection, as well as trip cancellations and 24/7 medical assistance from our insurance partner.

see more on How it works

What's included

Accident insurance

Medical and luggage insurance

Travel cancellation insurance

Hiking Guide

Pre-trip briefing in Cusco

Cooker to prepare all meals

Hotel pick-up in central Cusco

Water after first 4 hours (bring your own initially)

Tent with tables and chairs for meals

Tea served every morning in your tent

Big shared tents for two (spacious for comfort)

Emergency oxygen and first aid kit

Tickets for the Inca Trail, Machu Picchu, and train

Bus and train transport back to Cusco

Personal duffle bag provided for trek belongings (up to 7 kilos)

Porter service to carry duffle bags, accessible only at evening campsites

1 night in Cusco (3-star hotel)

Flight

Visa (if applicable)

Extra food and drinks

Everything not mentioned in the “What’s included”

Tips

Accomodations

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3-start hotel in Cusco

Your classic 3-star hotel in Cusco offers comfort and charm double rooms. You can enjoy friendly services, and warm décor with local touches. Perfect for resting before setting off on the adventure.

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Campsites

Campsites along the Inca Trail in Peru offer a unique blend of breathtaking natural beauty and historical richness. Nestled amidst stunning Andean landscapes, these sites provide trekkers with a serene setting to rest, surrounded by panoramic views of mountains and ancient ruins. Equipped with basic amenities for comfort, they serve as gateways to experiencing the trail's cultural heritage, connecting hikers to the path once walked by the Incas.

Guides

Raul & Alpaca Expeditions

Raul is the owner and director of Alpaca Expeditions. They have tour guides 100% local. They mastered the craft of leading groups through the most beautiful places and over the highest elevations without losing any bit of information and any tip to make the hiking more enjoyable. All the guides have graduated in Tourism and passed tests to be able to guide along the treks.