Mystical Inca Trail to Machu Picchu (4 Days)
Discover Machu Picchu with Breathtaking Views and Sacred Moments
- all months but Feb
- 4d/3n
- private
- challenging
Overview
Experience the Classic Inca Trail to Machu Picchu with a spiritual touch, and witness your first enchanting view of the citadel through the Sun Gate. As you journey through captivating Inca ruins, lush green cloud forests, and high mountain passes, our Andean shaman will accompany you and perform various healing ceremonies and rituals with you. Let us take care of every detail, pampering you with delicious meals, exceptional campsites, a skilled team, and top-quality equipment.
Itinerary
Early in the morning, we will leave Cusco and drive for about 1.5 hours to Ollantaytambo. Here, we will stop briefly so you can pick up any last-minute gear or personal items. You will also have time for breakfast (not included). Afterward, we will continue our drive to Piskacuchu (Km 82), where we will join our Andean shaman for a blessing ceremony to connect with nature. This ceremony sets an intention for the trek and honors the mountain spirits, asking for their permission to continue—a deep Andean tradition of respect. Our shaman will be with us throughout the journey.
After passing the Inca Trail checkpoint near the Urubamba River, we’ll begin with a gentle walk. Along the way, we will pass through Quechua villages and reach the first archaeological site, Patallacta. Our professional guide will share the fascinating Inca history of this site. We’ll then continue our hike to Tarayoq, where our Andean chef will prepare a delicious lunch. Afterward, we’ll walk for about 2 more hours until we reach our first campsite at Ayapata.
After enjoying a nutritious breakfast and a comforting cup of coca tea, we will set out on our hike early in the morning to make the most of the mountain’s layout. Our goal is to ascend the renowned Dead Woman’s Pass (4200m / 13,780ft), the highest point of our 4-day Inca Trail. While this part of the trek is challenging, reaching the summit is incredibly rewarding, with breathtaking views of snow-capped mountains.
Once we reach the pass, we will begin our descent toward Pacaymayo. Along the way, we will pass through captivating landscapes and cloud forests, taking a break for lunch. This section of the trail is particularly fascinating, guiding us past several Inca ruins, including the second-highest pass of the trail, Runkurakay (3850m / 12,631ft), and the site of Sayacmarca.
We will take a mindful moment with our shaman to perform a spiritual cleansing ceremony focused on forgiveness and healing.
Our journey will then lead us to Chakicocha, where we will enjoy a delicious dinner prepared by our skilled cook. Here, at the campsite, we will rest and rejuvenate for the adventures that lie ahead.
Day three of the Inca Trail offers a gentler experience as we embark on a mostly downhill journey to Wiñay Wayna. After a nourishing breakfast, we will continue our trek towards the vibrant Inca site of Phuyupatamarca (3,670m / 12,040ft), often called the “Inca Ruins Among the Clouds.” This name reflects its unique mist-covered landscape, situated near the jungle’s edge. Nestled within the heart of the Inca Trail Cloud Forest, this remarkable site offers breathtaking views of the expansive valley and towering emerald mountains. In the distance, we will catch glimpses of other archaeological wonders like Intipata and the Wiñay Wayna ruins.
On this day, we will also perform a ceremonial offering to Mother Earth (Pachamama) with our shaman, focusing on gratitude for all that She has nurtured in us. It is a beautiful way to give thanks for this experience, for ourselves, and for the spirits.
Our route then guides us along a zigzagging path to Wiñay Wayna (2560m / 8,700ft), where we will savor our lunch amidst stunning surroundings. Here, our spiritual guide will share insightful knowledge about this sacred Inca site. As the day concludes, we will enjoy a delightful dinner and participate in a farewell ceremony with the remaining team members—our dedicated cooks and porters—who will not be accompanying us on our final day.
Today, we finally arrive at the revered Machu Picchu citadel! Bright and early, we’ll embark on a hike to the renowned Sun Gate (Inti Punku), treating ourselves to breathtaking vistas of the Machu Picchu World Wonder. Our local guide will lead us through the well-known highlights and reveal lesser-known corners of this ancient Inca site, providing insights into its captivating history and spiritual significance. We’ll take a reflective pause to connect with the vibrant energy of this place and enjoy ample time to explore all its facets.
Subsequently, we’ll hop on a shuttle bus down to Aguas Calientes, where you’ll have leisure time for lunch (not included). Following that, we’ll board the train bound for Ollantaytambo/Poroy, concluding our journey with transportation back to Cusco.
Are you interested in hiking Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain? Remember, these hikes require an additional permit, and availability can be limited, often selling out well in advance. Kindly inform us during the booking process if you wish to include one of these hikes in your adventure.
$590
for the couple
*best price guarantee in USD
3-4 people
$1,199
/person
Prices are in USD per person, based on a group of 2. Please contact us for customized modifications.
5-7 people
$950
/person
Prices are in USD per person, based on a group of 3-4. Please contact us for customized modifications.
8+ people
$899
/person
Prices are in USD per person, based on a group of 5-7. Please contact us for customized modifications.
Enquire More Details:
Inclusions and Additional Information
- Transportation from Cusco to Ollantaytambo train station
- Train from Ollantaytambo to Km82
- English-speaking guide
- Andean Ceremonies with Q’eros Shaman on day 1-3 (cleansing, offering, etc.)
- Entrance ticket for the Inca Trail and Machu Picchu
- Meals and activities as indicated in the itinerary
- Shuttle bus between Aguas Calientes and Machu Picchu
- Accommodation in comfortable tents at campsites with basic foam matress.
- Professional cook and cooking equipment. Dining tent and kitchen tent for the cook to freshly prepare your meals.
- Boiled water provided for coffee and tea to accompany your meals at the campsites. Water for refillable water bottles.
- Staff who carry camping equipment, food and kitchen utensils.
- We provide duffel bags at your briefing for your personal items (up to 5kg per person).
- Train from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo/ Poroy
- Transportation back to Cusco
- Briefing at your hotel lobby the day before departure
- Breakfast on first day, lunch and dinner on last day.
- Trekking poles. Available for rent for $15.00 per person.
- Sleeping bags. Available for rent for $25.00 per person.
- Activities and meals not mentioned in the itinerary or indicated as optional.
- Gratuities for the staff.
- National or international flights.
- Travel Insurance.
If you ever need to cancel or want to know about refunds, you can find all the details in our Terms and Conditions. If you’re not sure about something or have any questions, just get in touch with us.
We’re here to help and make things clear for you. Your happiness is really important to us!
FAQ about the Inca Trail
The Inca Trail is special because you get the chance to see plenty of very unique Inca sites, and you can walk on the original Inca trail. Besides, you will see Machu Picchu from a different perspective through the Sun Gate, with a bit of luck even see the sunset there above Machu Picchu. And, we make it even more special because a real shaman from the Q’eros community will accompany you during the trek and perform ancestral ceremonies with you so you can connect with yourself and Mother Nature
Getting ready for this trek is easy! Spend about 2 to 3 days in a high place like Cusco before you start. This helps your body get used to the high altitude. If you’ve been to a high place before coming to Cusco, still take at least one whole day to rest in Cusco. You can relax, get your energy back, and see the city before your trek.
Also, taking good care of your body is important because of the high altitude. Eat healthy food, drink plenty of water, and avoid alcohol. Chewing coca leaves and drinking coca tea can also help you feel better if you’re not used to the altitude.
Essentials include comfortable hiking shoes, a daypack, rain gear, layers of clothing, a hat, sunscreen, insect repellent, and a refillable water bottle. Your tour operator will provide a comprehensive packing list.
Please remember that the train company only allows carry-on baggage (a duffle bag or small backpack) with a weight no greater than 5kg/11lb and a maximum size of 62 linear inches/157 cm (height + length + width). Boarding with luggage larger than stated above will not be allowed.
Yes, you have the option to enhance your Inca Trail experience by hiking either Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain on the second day of your journey. These hikes provide unique perspectives of Machu Picchu and its surroundings, offering breathtaking panoramic views that are well worth the effort.
Huayna Picchu: This iconic peak rises behind Machu Picchu and offers a challenging hike with steep ascents and narrow paths. The hike takes about 2-3 hours round trip and provides stunning vistas of the citadel from a different angle. Due to its popularity, permits for Huayna Picchu are limited and often sell out well in advance. If you’re interested in this hike, be sure to request it during your booking process to secure a permit. Please let us know in advance, so we can check the availability for them.
Machu Picchu Mountain: This less crowded option provides an equally rewarding experience. The hike features a more gradual ascent compared to Huayna Picchu. From the summit of Machu Picchu Mountain, you’ll have an expansive view of the entire archaeological site and the surrounding landscape. Similar to Huayna Picchu, permits for Machu Picchu Mountain are limited and should be arranged ahead of time. Please let us know in advance, so we can check the availability for them.
Both of these additional hikes require extra permits and an additional cost.
Ultimately, the best time to do the Inca Trail depends on your priorities. If you prioritize stable weather and clear skies, the dry season is your best bet, but be prepared for larger crowds. If you prefer a more serene experience and are willing to contend with rain, the wet season might be a unique opportunity for you. Regardless of the season, booking your trek well in advance is crucial, as permits for the Inca Trail are limited and tend to sell out quickly.
Dry Season (May to September): This period is considered the peak tourist season and is generally regarded as the best time to undertake the Inca Trail. The weather is relatively dry and stable during these months, with less rainfall and clearer skies. The pleasant weather makes hiking more comfortable and enhances the stunning views along the trail. However, due to its popularity, this season can also be crowded, and it’s advisable to book well in advance.
Wet Season (October to April): The wet season in the region is characterized by more frequent rainfall, especially during the months of January and February. That’s why the Inca Trail is closed in the month of February due to the rainy season and the high risk of landslides. However, you can still undertake the trek during the other months of the rainy season. Despite the rain, the landscape is lush and vibrant during these months. If you don’t mind the possibility of rain and prefer a quieter trail, the wet season might be a viable option.
While you don’t need to be an expert hiker, the trail involves varying terrain, steep ascents and descents, and changes in altitude. Having some familiarity with hiking and being in reasonably good physical condition will make the trek more enjoyable and manageable.
It’s important to note that the Inca Trail is challenging in parts, and being prepared both physically and mentally will contribute to a smoother experience. If you’re relatively new to hiking, it’s a good idea to do some training and practice hikes in the months leading up to your trek.
Yes, the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu is considered moderately difficult. The trail involves a mix of uphill and downhill sections, varying terrain, and changes in altitude.
The difficulty level can vary from person to person, and factors such as your physical condition, prior hiking experience, and how well you acclimate to the altitude will influence your experience. The challenging parts of the trail, such as steep ascents and descents, especially on the second day when reaching Dead Woman’s Pass, require stamina and mental determination.
