Shared Group Inca Trail to Machu Picchu 4 Days / 3 Nights

4 Days |

3 Nigths

General description

SERVICE:

Inca Trail 4 days to Machu Picchu, combines beautiful mountain scenery, lush cloud forest and subtropical forest, and an outstanding mix of Inca paving stones, ruins and tunnels. Descending through the magical sun gate on the last day will reveal the emerald peaks and the terraced ruins of the mysterious Inca city of Machu Picchu.

OVERVIEW:

Inca trail 4 days to the lost city of the Incas and Machu Picchu is a magical adventure. Making this historical journey high into the Andes will hold special memories that stay with you the rest of your life.

By booking your Inca Trail to Machu Picchu 4 days 3 nights with Cachi life Peru you are choosing the best. Don’t believe us? Check out our reviews on TripAdvisor!

Inca Trail 4 days Availability:
We offer daily departures on the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu 4 days 3 nights (excluding February when the trail is closed).
Check Availability Here:
It is strongly recommended to book your Inca Trail to Machu Picchu 4 days 3 nights at least 4 months in advance as permits can quickly sell out.

Useful Information:
Starting Altitude – 2720m / 8920ft.
Highest Altitude – 4217m / 13,780ft.

Walking Distance – 42km / 26 miles
Longest Day – Day 2, approximately 16km / 9.9 miles
Coldest Night – Day 2 around 0o celsius
Overall Difficulty – Moderate

Pre-Trek Briefing
You will have an in-depth briefing with your guide 1 day before your Inca Trail 4 Days. Your guide will meet you at your hotel and you can take this opportunity to ask questions and make any final preparations.

Detailed Itinerary

Day 01: Cusco – Km 82 – Wayllabamba.

Today has a relatively relaxed start for the Inca Trail and the walking is easy going to help you settle in to the trek. Beginning at Kilometer (Km) 82 (2,720 m/ 8,922 ft), we slowly make our way along the banks of the Urubamba River with great views of the snow-capped peak of Mount Veronica (5,900 m/19,000 ft). There will be a variety of native plant and birdlife around us during this stretch.

known as Patallacta on some maps). Llactapata means ‘upper town’ in Quechua and was first discovered by Hiram Bingham in 1911 and was primarily an agricultural station used to supply Machu Picchu with maize, the staple crop of the Incas. The settlement comprised over one hundred buildings, houses for the workers and soldiers, including five baths.

We will continue the Inca Trail hike on a path that follows the left bank of the river up to the small village of Wayllabamba (3,000m). The name in Quechua means ‘grassy plain’. We will spend the night here depending on the speed of the group. (This is the last place along the trek that you can buy snacks and drinks).

Meals: Lunch/Dinner
Distance Covered: 12 kilometers
Approximate Walking Time: 6 – 7 hours
Lowest elevation: 2,600 m/ 8,525 ft
Highest elevation: 2,950 m/9,676 ft
Difficulty: moderate

Day 02: Wayllabamba – Dead Woman’s Pass – Pacaymayo

After breakfast we will keep hiking the Classic Inca Trail as we climbing up from Wayllabamba following the left bank of the Llulluchayoc River, we arrive in ‘Tres Piedras’ (three stones). There is stream named after the Huayruro, which is an ornamental tree that has red and black seeds. Many of the porters from Ollantaytambo district are also known as Huayruros because of their traditional red and black ponchos.

first scorching sun and then, closer to the pass, freezing winds. Once at the top hikers can celebrate having completed the most difficult section of the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu.

The decent from the pass is steep but not difficult. We will follow the trail on the left side of the valley floor and spend our 2nd evening at the Pacaymayo campsite.

Meals: Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner

Distance Covered: 10 kilometers

Approximate Walking Time: 7 – 8 hours

Highest elevation: 4,215 m/13,821 ft

Difficulty: Challenge

Day 03: Pacaymayo – Runcurakay Pass – Phuyupatamarka – Wiñaywayna.

After breakfast, we continue our hike up the opposite side of the valley as we make our way toward the second pass on the trek. Along the way, we will enjoy fantastic views of waterfalls, as well as diverse flora and fauna. Halfway up, we will stop for a quick visit to the Inca site of Runcuraccay, an Inca watchtower, and to catch our breath before continuing our climb to the pass at 3,900 meters (12,792 ft). From the pass, we begin our descent into the cloud forest.

After about an hour, we arrive at Sayacmarca, one of the most beautiful ruins on the Inca Trail, where we will enjoy a guided tour for approximately one hour. From Sayacmarca, we continue down to our lunch spot at Chaquicocha (Dry Lake), where you can admire some of the incredible flora and fauna along the trail.

From Chaquicocha onwards, we walk along relatively flat Inca paths with gradual inclines as we make our way to Phuyupatamarca (3,680 meters / 12,073 ft). This section of the trail is stunning, offering panoramic views of the Vilcabamba mountain range and abundant flora and fauna. From here, we will get our first view of Machu Picchu Mountain and the Urubamba River far below.

From Phuyupatamarca, we begin the long descent along stone steps toward Wiñaywayna (2,650 m / 8,692 ft), where we will set up camp. Near the bottom of the staircase, we will visit Intipata, the Terraces of the Sun, which offers beautiful views of the Sacred Valley and was an important agricultural site for Machu Picchu.

Finally, we reach Wiñaywayna, the largest archaeological site on the Inca Trail after Machu Picchu. This impressive complex includes an agricultural center with numerous terraces, a religious sector, and an urban sector, all offering spectacular views over the narrower Urubamba River valley.

Meals: Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner
Distance Covered: 16 km
Approximate Walking Time: 8 – 9 hours
Highest Elevation: 3,900 m / 12,792 ft
Difficulty: Challenging

Day 04: Wiñaywayna – Sun Gate – Machu Picchu – Cusco

We will rise very early to complete the final stretch of the Inca Trail, which brings us to Inti Punku or the Sun Gate, the principal entrance of the crystal city of Machu Picchu. The trail here is fairly easy going and after about an hour we will arrive to Inti Punku (2,400 m/ 7,875 ft), an awesome location to observe the citadel of Machu Picchu and sunrise in the Andes.

From Inti Punku it is a further 40 minute downhill hike to the citadel of Machu Picchu. We will go to the classic “photo” spot and take pictures once we arrive. Then there will be a short break prior to starting our tour of Machu Picchu. The tour will last two hours. If you have elected to climb Huayna Picchu Mountain you should select the 10 AM time spot.

When you are finished exploring the extraordinary city of Machu Picchu you will travel to Aguas Calientes by bus. You will then take the train from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo where our private van will be waiting to transport you back to your hotel in Cusco. Arrival time in Cusco depends on the time of your train ticket.

Meals: Breakfast
Maximum altitude: 2700 m/ 8856 ft
Minimum altitude: 2,430 m/ 7,972 ft
Distance to walk: 6 km/ 3.73 miles
Approximate walking time: 2 hours

Included

Professional Guides:
Our guides possess advanced expertise in the history, geology, and archaeology of this region in Peru.
5 Kilograms Of Your Personal Belongings:
You will have a personal porter, who will carry 5 kilograms of your personal belongings at no extra cost. The 5 kilograms weight limit includes the sleeping bag and sleeping pad.
A Duffle Bag:
We will provide you with a duffle bag where you will put inside your 5 kilograms (11 pounds).
Pick-Up And Drop-Off At Your Hotel:
We will pick you up from your hotel or Airbnb in Cusco to start your Inca Trail. After your hike, we will drop you off in your hotel or Airbnb in Cusco.
Private Transportation from Cusco to Km 82:
Once we pick you up, our drivers will then transport you in our private AB Expeditions van to Km 82 (the trailhead).
Foam Mattress:
You will receive a foam sleeping pad.
Professional Chef:
Our chef creates incredible dishes on the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu.
Dining Tent With Chairs And Tables:
We will provide you with a dining tent, along with chairs and a table where you enjoy your meals.
Portable Toilet:
We will provide portable toilets and set up toilet tents conveniently close to our own camping space, eliminating the need for long walks during the night.
Meals:
We will provide you with 3 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 3 dinners, and 3 snacks. We also have options for vegetarians, vegans, those who are gluten-free as well as alternative options for those who have any other type of food allergy.
Tents:
We will provide you with a Eureka Timberline 4 Person Tent, which is shared by up to 2 people.
Inca Trail Permit:
The price of the Inca Trail includes the entrance fee as well as visits to the various archaeological sites.
Porters:
Our porters will carry all of your equipment, which means you only need to carry a small daypack.
Machu Picchu Ticket:
With this ticket you visit Machu Picchu with your own private guided tour.
Bus Ticket:
The bus ticket from Machu Picchu to Aguas Calientes is also included.
Train Tickets:
We will organize your Expedition Train Ticket from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo.
Transportation To Cusco:
The transportation from Ollantaytambo to Cusco is also sorted for you.
Oxygen Tank:
Our tour guides always bring a tank of oxygen in case of an emergency.
First-Aid Kit:
During the hikes our guides will be equipped with first-aid kits.
Briefing:
The evening prior to your trek at 6:00pm will be the briefing in the lobby of your hotel or airbnb in Cusco .
Hot Water Bowls:
Each and every day (before and after trekking), we provide you with hot water so you can properly clean your hands and face.
Guided Tour Of Machu Picchu:
You will explore Machu Picchu with our guide, visiting the most important temples and ruins. This also includes a visit to the unique guardhouse platform.
Water:
We supply you with water during every meal. We will properly boil, filter, and cool it to guarantee cleanliness and safety for consumption.
Free Storage For Your Extra Belongings:
We keep your extra belongings safe during the trek in our secure storage space in Cusco.
Radio Communications:
Our guides and cooks also make frequent radio communication to stay organized.

Not Included

Breakfast on Day 1.
Lunch on Day 4.
Entrance to the Hot Springs in Aguas Calientes town ($5).
Tips (optional).

Huayna Picchu Mountain: This has an extra cost of $65.
Vistadome: This has an extra cost of $30.
Sleeping Bag: This has an extra cost of $25.
Walking Sticks: This has an extra cost of $20.
Air Mattress: This has an extra cost of $20.

Huayna Picchu Mountain

Huayna Picchu, the mountain backdrop to Machu Picchu, offers stunning views from its summit. Before your hike, there are a few essential details. At Cachi Life Peru, we handle the ticketing, ensuring you secure your desired date and time. Your hike will be scheduled between 10:00 and 11:00 am, following a guided tour of Machu Picchu from 9:00 to 10:30 am. You will enter Huayna Picchu at 10:40 am. The hike is unguided unless you opt for a $60 guide. It takes about an hour to reach the top, where we recommend spending 25 minutes before descending, which takes around 45 minutes. Expect the entire experience to last 2-2.5 hours, returning to Machu Picchu by 1:00 pm for a bus ride to Aguas Calientes. Some trail sections are steep and may require handholds, making it unsuitable for those afraid of heights.

Vistadome

On our 4 Day Inca Trail journey to Machu Picchu, we also include a ticket on the Expeditions Train. These trains are built for tourists and offer comfort, cleanliness, and amazing views of the surrounding landscapes. However, if you want to make your journey even more memorable, then you have the choice to upgrade to the Vistadome Train for your return trip from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo. The Vistadome Train has wider windows, larger tables, more comfortable seats as well as a glass roof – which is perfect for taking in all of the incredible mountain views. Also on board, they host entertainment shows, dance performances, and fashion exhibitions and also provide a complimentary snack.

Trekking Poles

We highly recommend you trekking poles for the trek given the terrain is very diverse, where you will walk along stone steps, up hills and also down hills. Trekking Poles also offer significant support and stability throughout the hike, which helps to prevent injuries or excessive strain. If you don’t have your own trekking poles, then you can hire them from us for $20 for the entire trek.

All of our trekking poles are really good for the hikes of the inca trail to Machu Picchu. You can arrange to rent them from us when booking your Inca Trail permit, or you can rent them at the briefing time in Cusco the day before your departure. We recommend them, especially for individuals who have knee issues or those with limited hiking experience. Experienced hikers can also benefit from using Trekking Poles, however it really depends on your own comfort level and preference.

Sleeping Bag

If you don’t want to bring your own sleeping bag for your trek on the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, then you can rent one from us instead. You can either include it in your reservation when booking your Inca Trail permit or rent it directly from us in Cusco during our pre-departure meeting (which is the day before). Our rental fee for a sleeping bag is $25 for the entire 4-day trek. The sleeping bags that we provide are really good.

Air Mattress

During our trip we provide foam mattresses for your extra comfort. These mattresses measure 190.01cm (74.81 inches) in length, 60.02cm (23.63 inches) in width, and 5 cm (2.00 inches) in thickness. The majority of our clients have said that these foam mats are very comfortable, and helped them to sleep easily during the various nights spent on the Inca Trail. You also have the additional option to add an extra air mattress if you want even more luxury. This way, you will sleep on two mattresses which makes it even easier to get a good night’s rest (which is placed on top of the standard foam mattress that we include). If you want to get an additional air mattress during your trip, then it will cost an extra $20 per person on top of the usual Inca Trail Hike cost.

Recommendations

A good day pack: such as Eagle Creek Afar Backpack (Appropriate pack to
carry your personal belongings.)
Original passport (International Student Identity Card “ISIC” if applicable)
Travel insurance (strongly recommended but not required
Lighter trekking boots (with good ankle support)
3 pairs of trekking pants (not jeans), 1 hiking, 1 cotton–which is just
enough. Please spray both pairs with an insect repellent spray before the trip.
Layers for variable temperatures especially at night
1 rain jacket: The first night the temperature can be as low as – 5 degrees
Celsius/23 degrees Fahrenheit. A rain jacket can be helpful, because there are rainy days even in the dry season!
1 warm/winter jacket (Thermals: wool socks/gloves, scarf and woolen hat for cold nights).
4 pairs of underwear, 6 pairs of socks (Bamboo or cotton/nylon-blend
socks dry faster than 100 percent cotton, which lose their softness when air-dried.) It is nice to have a couple of extra pairs of socks to change into at night when you’re not hiking. Also, we recommend bringing both really
heavy hiking socks and lighter socks as well as the weather is variable, so
you want to make sure you’re not too cold or too hot.
4 shirts, 2 long sleeve shirts
1 good sleeping bag liner which is super lightweight and easy to pack. This definitely does its job!
Travel-size tissues and wet wipes–The air is cold and damp, so your nose is going to run a lot. Everyone seems to run out of tissues by the end of the trek. Also, most bathrooms do not have toilet paper (if you even get a bathroom), so wet wipes are key.
Iron tablets and pills for altitude sickness. Several people on the hike have
varying degrees of altitude sickness and both of these remedies (in addition to the coca tea) are very helpful in alleviating the symptoms.
Sun protection cream (SPF 45 or higher recommended).
Bug spray with 30% DEET in it–which you need, but it doesn’t work very
well. The issue with Cusco outdoor is that most of the bugs are not mosquitoes. They are these small flies you can’t even see that leave weird
bites that first look like you pricked your finger and then blow up into itchy
red bumps. Unfortunately, these bugs seem to bite you no matter what kind of spray you put on, so bringing some anti-itch ointment could be helpful.
Re-usable plastic or metal water container or a hydration pack such as Camel-back
Water (Only for first day of the hike, as we will provide you with water throughout the rest of the hike).
Camera and film
A headlamp to navigate camp in the evenings and pre-dawn mornings with spare batteries
Bandages or moleskin
Flip flops to change into at night. Your toes will thank you!
Toiletries: toothbrush, toothpaste/floss, shampoo/conditioner,
brush/comb, Vaseline (great for potential blisters on the feet), feminine
hygiene products, deodorant, nail clippers/file/tweezers, spare glasses and/or prescription, mini-eyeglass repair kit, contact lenses and supplies,
hand sanitizer etc. Pack what you need, but pack light.
Medication (Imodium AD or something for your stomach) because some people get an upset stomach on the trek. Also, Ibuprofen or Acetaminophen can be helpful to help with aches and pains after 8-10 hours of hiking each day.
Plastic bags for dirty and wet clothes
Something to read in the evenings
Extra money for drinks
Emergency money at least 300-450 extra soles (USD$ 220)
Tips (the amount you tip (or if you tip) is a personal decision and it is NOT an obligation.

Prices

We can depart any day of the week, as long as permits are available. Please remember, permits are only needed for your start date.
Price: 800 USD Per person

Discounts:
Student Discount: US$30.00 off per person, this discount only apply to anyone who has a valid UNIVERSITY STUDENT CARD at the time of the trek or who is 17-years-old or younger. For those using a University Student Card our under 17-years-old, we need to see a copy of their card or passport at the time of booking to receive the discount. Please send all to info@cachilifeperu.com

Optional Extras (Need to Book in Advance):
Machu Picchu Mountain climbing: USD 65.00 (Need to book in advance)
Huayna Picchu Mountain climbing: USD 65.00 (Need to book in advance)

Upgrades:
Hotel Upgrades:
Belmond Sanctuary Lodge (5 star hotel) – US $580 per person per night (double occupancy)

Sumaq Machu Picchu hotel (4 star hotel) – US $345 per person per night (double occupancy)
Santuario Hotel (3+ star hotel) – US $65 per person per night (double occupancy)

Train Upgrades:
Vistadome train -US $65 for trip from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo (Need to book in advance).
Hiram Bingham train (deluxe) -US $485 for trip from Aguas Calientes to Poroy (Need to book in advance).

Rentals:
Hiking poles – 20.00 USD
Sleeping bag – 25.00 USD
Private Tent – 30.00 USD
Half porter – 120 USD ( the extra porter is 6 kilos at the briefing time your guide will give you the duffle bag to put your personal belongings ).

Frequently Asked Questions:

FREQUENT ASKED QUESTION

How to book the Shared Group Inca Trail 4D/3N with Cach Life Peru

To reserve your Shared Group Inca Trail 4D/3N, please find the “book now” button on our website. once you click the button, you will be redirected to a booking platform where you can choose your desired departure date and provide essential personal information about each participant. the payment process can be completed using either a credit card or a debit card.

If you are interested in additional options like the Huayna Picchu mountain hike, we recommend booking them simultaneously with your Inca trail reservation. this approach ensures that you don’t miss out on any possible opportunities due to the rapid-selling Inca trail permits. You can rent walking sticks in Cusco 1 day before your trip.

We will send you a confirmation email once the Inca trail permit has been secured to ensure a meticulously organized and successful trip. we guarantee that it will proceed as planned once the start date is confirmed.

Can I store my luggage at your office?

Certainly! During the Shared Group Inca Trail 4D/3N to Machu Picchu, we provide a luggage storage facility at our office. we kindly request that you only bring the essentials necessary for the duration of your hike to Machu Picchu.

What about the outstanding balance?

We would like to inform you that settling your outstanding balance can be done efficiently and securely with our various payment options. you may choose to pay in cash, either in USD or soles, one day prior to your trip. for your convenience, credit card payments can also be made with a 5% service fee. please let us know your preferred payment method in advance.

Please note that cash payments must be made one day prior to your trip without exception. we appreciate your prompt attention in settling your outstanding balance and look forward to providing you with the best service possible.

How about the student discount?

Please note that individuals who are 18 years or older must present a valid student card in order to be eligible for discounts on the tour. for students aged 11-17 years, a discount of $30 USD applies, while children aged 2-11 years can avail of a discount of $40 USD. in order to obtain the student discount, please ensure that a copy of your passport and student card are sent to our team at the time of booking via email to info@cachilifeperu.com

May I change the departure date after the permits have been bought?

We regret to inform you that the Inca trail permits are non-transferable and non-refundable, according to the regulations set forth by the government. we would like to clarify that the only information allowed to be modified is the passport numbers. please let us know if there are any other questions we can help answer or concerns we can address. thank you for your understanding.

Do I need to bring my original passport on the Shared Group Inca Trail 4D/3N?

We kindly remind you that it is imperative to bring your original passport for your upcoming Shared Group Inca Trail 4D/3N permits. it is highly important that the passport you bring is the same one you provided to us during the reservation process. we just want to ensure that you have a seamless and enjoyable experience throughout your journey. please take note that your passport will be checked at three different Inca trail checkpoints, as well as at Machu Picchu, and when boarding the train.

Updating passport numbers

If you are in the process of renewing your passport and planning to book Shared Group Inca Trail 4D/3N permits, we kindly request that you email us a copy of your old passport for verification purposes. in case you do not possess your old passport anymore, any valid government-issued identity card can be presented as long as it bears the same name.

Furthermore, once you receive your new passport, we sincerely ask that you immediately email us a copy of it to modify the information on your permit. it is essential to ensure that all details on your permit match those on your passport exactly to avoid any inconvenience during your trek.

What is the schedule of my train ticket?

Typically, return train tickets are reserved for departure at 14:55 pm or 15:20 on day 4, allowing arrivals in Cusco at 07:00 pm. This itinerary allows for sufficient rest and the opportunity to participate in tours such as Rainbow Mountain on the subsequent day.

Can I stay in the Sacred Valley for the Shared Group Inca Trail 4D/3N?

We recommend that you consider staying in either Urubamba or Ollantaytambo during your visit to the sacred valley. by opting for accommodation in this area, your pick-up time will be scheduled an hour and a half after the usual pick-up time in Cusco, which will allow you some more time to rest.

If I cancel my Shared Group Inca Trail 4D/3N. do I get any refund?

If you are unable to join us for any reason such as illness, missing your flight, or a natural disaster, we regret to inform you that we will lose $150 USD automatically. please note that once the Inca trail permit is purchased, it becomes non-refundable and non-transferable. this is because the Ministry of Culture of Peru and Peru Rail are in charge of issuing permits and train tickets, and do not provide refunds.

We understand that unexpected changes can occur, and we want to assure you that we will always do our best to be reasonable and only charge you for any expenses that have already been incurred.

What time will we get to Machu Picchu?

our group’s usual arrival time at the sun gate is around 7:00 a.m. with slight variations. afterward, it takes approximately 45 minutes to reach Machu Picchu from the Sun gate. thus, we can estimate your arrival at Machu Picchu at around 8:00 am in the morning.

Will water be provided?

We recommend that you purchase 2 liters of water for the first day of your trek for adequate hydration. From the second day onwards, we will supply you with boiled water three times a day — after breakfast, during lunchtime, and at dinner. this measure has been implemented for your health and safety, ensuring that you have access to safe drinking water throughout your trekking journey.

What kinds of reusable water bottles should we bring to the Shared Group Inca Trail 4D/3N?

From march 2022, the use of single-use plastic water bottles and other plastic waste will be strictly prohibited while trekking on the Inca trail for 4 days and 3 nights. to comply with this policy, we kindly ask that all guests bring their own personal reusable water bottles to be filled with the water we provide. we suggest opting for a bladder, hard shell bottle, or pouch that is most convenient for your needs. this measure is part of our ongoing commitment to minimize our environmental impact and preserve the natural beauty of this iconic landmark. thank you for your cooperation in this endeavor.

Is there an age limit for the Shared Group Inca Trail 4D/3N?

It is important to note that there is no age limit for the Shared Group Inca Trail 4D/3N. however, for safety purposes, ab expeditions recommend a minimum age of 6 years old. this is due to the presence of steep sections that may prove challenging for younger individuals. our team prioritizes the safety and well-being of our customers, and we believe that this recommendation will help ensure an enjoyable, memorable, and safe experience for all who embark on this journey with us. we appreciate your understanding and look forward to providing you with an exceptional experience on the Inca trail.

How many kilos is it allowed to carry on the Inca trail?

As per our porter policy, our porters carry no more than 20 kilograms for safety and well-being. however, we understand that as a guest, you may wish to carry your own personal belongings, there is no weight limit for guests. so you can carry the weight that you want. we saw some people carrying up to 30 kg.

Is there any location where I can plug and charge my electronic devices on the Inca trail?

Please note that there is currently no electricity available at any of the campsites. to ensure a comfortable stay, we highly recommend that all visitors bring along extra portable battery packs or power banks to keep their devices charged.

What is the temperature rating of Cachi life Peru sleeping bags?

We offer top-quality mummy-style sleeping bags that are designed for use in temperatures as low as -15°c / 5°f.

Which campsites do you usually book for your groups?

During the booking process, you will be presented with four options to choose from. we typically recommend selecting option 01 or 02. By choosing either of these options, your last campsite will be wiñaywayna, which is located approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes away from Machu Picchu. this allows you to reach Machu Picchu early in the morning, ensuring you have ample time to explore and fully enjoy the site.

On the other hand, options 03 and 04 are not recommended. these options involve camping at phuyupamarca, which is situated around 6 hours away from machu picchu. choosing these options would result in a longer trekking time on the final day, and you might arrive at Machu Picchu later in the day, potentially limiting the time you have to explore the site.

Extra information:

INFORMATION

Additional Info for Private Inca Trail Tours

We would like to inform you of the regulations put in place by the Peruvian Ministry of Culture and SERNANP regarding access to the Inca Trail. Please ensure that you have a permit that matches your full name, passport number, nationality, and age, issued by the Ministry of Culture.

The number of visitors to the Inca Trail is tightly controlled with a maximum of 500 people per day, including support staff such as authorized porters, cooks, and tour guides. It’s important to note that when the daily visitor limit is reached, the Trail is closed off, and no further reservations can be made. We highly recommend booking permits a year in advance if possible.

Please note that only licensed Inca Trail Travel Agencies like Cachi life Peru can secure permits, which are not transferable at any point. In case of a change in the start date, a new permit must be purchased. We strictly adhere to the regulations set by the government of Peru.

In the event that permits are sold out for your desired start date, we are happy to suggest alternative treks to Machu Picchu, including Salkantay Trek, Inca Quarry Trek, and Lares Trek. Please feel free to contact us for further assistance.

Things to know

To ensure a comfortable and enjoyable Inca Trail hike, we recommend breaking in your trekking shoes beforehand.

We advise spending two days in Cusco prior to the hike, especially for those not acclimatized to the altitude.

For peak season bookings in June to August, it is essential to reserve permits a year in advance.

Along the trail, bottled water is available for purchase on the first and second days, but not again until Machu Picchu.

Please keep in mind that individuals with back problems are discouraged from taking part in this 4-day trek.

Departures are available daily for groups of two or more, with no departures in February due to trail maintenance.

wheelchair access is not available on the trail.

DON’T FORGET THE ESSENTIALS: Original passport, insurance card, and personal medications.

Duffle bag

As part of our service, we will provide you with duffel bags that can be provided from our guide after the briefing. These duffel bags will be carried by your porters and will only be accessible at the campsites. We suggest placing your non-hiking attire and personal items in the duffel bag, allowing you to carry your essential items, such as water, snacks, first aid kit, and rain gear, separately in your day pack.

We ask that you ensure that your duffel bag does not exceed 7kg, of which only 4kg should be allocated to your personal belongings. The remaining 3kg should be reserved for your sleeping pad and sleeping bag. By allocating the weight correctly, you will ensure a comfortable and enjoyable hiking experience.

Strikes

We would like to inform you that, at times, strikes and roadblocks may occur in Peru which may cause disruption to our Private Inca Trail to Machu Picchu hike and rail service to and from Machu Picchu. We understand the importance of your journey and want to ensure that any changes to your travel plans are kept to a minimum.

If a strike occurs on the first day of your Private Machu Picchu 4-day tour, we will take you to the trailhead the night before your start date, ensuring a smooth start to your journey. In the event that a strike occurs on the day of your return from the Private Inca Trail 4-day hike, we will send our vans to Hidroelectrica, where you will be required to hike an additional 2 hours from Aguas Calientes to Hidroelectrica. From there, we will transport you by van to Cusco and drop you off at your hotel.

We are committed to providing a comfortable and enjoyable travel experience, and we thank you for your understanding should any unforeseen circumstances arise.

Returning from Machu Picchu to Cusco.

At Cachi Life Peru, we have taken care of all the logistics for your return trip from Machu Picchu to Cusco. We have arranged for a bus to take you from Machu Picchu to Aguas Calientes, with buses departing every 15 minutes. From there, you will take a train to either Ollantaytambo or Poroy train station. Our guide will provide you with your train tickets and we ask that you arrive at the station at least 30 minutes before departure time.

The journey to Ollantaytambo is estimated to take approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes, while the journey to Poroy will take approximately 3 hours and 30 minutes. Once you arrive at the train station, our transfer will be waiting for you with the Cachi Life Peru logo and will take you back to your hotel in Cusco.

Inca trail weather

When hiking the Private Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, it is important to understand that the weather in the Andes can be unpredictable, with rain falling during the dry season and sunshine during the rainy season. As a professional, we recommend hikers prepare for variable weather conditions by bringing essential gear such as a rain jacket, rain pants, poncho, and waterproof gloves. Additionally, hikers should be aware that the trail has various microclimates that can change throughout the day, so it is important to dress in layers that can be easily adapted to temperature changes. Hikers should also bring a down jacket for the early morning and evenings when the weather is colder. Overall, being prepared with the right gear and clothing will ensure a safe and enjoyable experience along the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu.

Travel Insurance

We highly suggest that you acquire travel insurance as it offers essential coverage for unforeseen circumstances during your Private 4-day Inca Trail tour. It can provide reimbursement for your pre-paid, non-refundable Inca Trail permit in case of last-minute cancellations. Additionally, having travel insurance can offer peace of mind as it can cover medical emergencies that may arise while traveling far away from home. In the event of a covered medical emergency, travel insurance can reimburse for necessary medical expenses incurred. Therefore, it is advisable to purchase travel insurance to ensure that you have adequate protection throughout your journey.

Physical requirements

We highly recommend that individuals embarking on this trek be in good physical condition due to the strenuous nature of the hike. The classic Inca Trail boasts elevation changes that challenge even seasoned hikers, featuring three passes throughout the trek. It is important to prepare and take into consideration the physical demands of the trail in order to fully enjoy your experience.

Pre-departure briefing

We would like to remind you that a pre-departure briefing is essential for a successful and unforgettable Inca Trail experience. The briefing will be one day before your hike, the meeting point will be in the lobby of your hotel or Airbnb at 6:00pm. The session takes approximately 30-45 minutes where your guide will be introduced to you and provide you with detailed information about the upcoming private tours to the Inca Trail, such as the list of essential items to bring, rental equipment, and answer any questions you may have. Should you have any difficulty attending the scheduled briefing, please contact us info@cachilifeperu.com team via email to coordinate an alternative time.

Tipping

We kindly remind our valued guests that it is customary to tip Inca Trail Trail tour staff, including our hard-working porters and skilled chefs. On the third afternoon of the tour, we will bid farewell to these incredible individuals and it is at this time that we request you provide a gratuity, if you so choose. Please note that tipping is voluntary and should never be a source of discomfort or coercion.

Typically, our guests choose to combine their tips for the chefs and porters, while tips for the tour guide are reserved for after the Machu Picchu guided tour. Additionally, we recommend providing tips in Soles for our chefs and porters, while both Soles and U.S. dollars are acceptable for the tour guide.

To assist in guiding your gratuity amount, we suggest considering a range of 60-90 Soles per porter and 120-150 Soles per chef. As always, any additional amount is greatly appreciated by our staff members. Thank you for your consideration, and we look forward to providing you with an unforgettable Inca Trail experience.

Typical meals on the trek

Our commitment to offering the ultimate culinary experience during your trek to Machu Picchu is unwavering. To ensure that our meals are always of the highest quality, we regularly provide our cooks with intensive training during the low season. The menus we prepare are designed to showcase the freshest local ingredients and provide you with a range of dietary options, which includes vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free options upon request at the time of booking.

For breakfast, indulge in hot porridge, quinoa, or oats, accompanied by a variety of freshly baked bread, fried eggs, omelets, and pancakes. To complete the meal, enjoy fresh fruit and a selection of hot beverages like coca tea, coffee, and hot chocolate.

Our lunch and dinner course offerings, a combination of traditional dishes and international cuisine, are served in two courses. The first course is typically a vegetable-based soup or a stuffed avocado, followed by hearty options such as beef stew, quinoa, and hamburgers. Finally, cap off the dining experience with a selection of desserts like chocolate pudding, vanilla cake, or fresh fruit.

During the trek, snacks such as candies, cookies, fruit juices, and a variety of Peruvian fruits, like bananas, chirimoya, and apples are also available to satisfy any cravings or keep up your energy levels

Starting from

US$800 USD

Duration

4 Days

Destination

Cusco

Type of activity

Inca Trail to Machupicchu, Trekking in Cusco

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