The Inca trail is without a doubt one of the most beautiful in all of the Americas, it will leave you with an unforgettable experience. Of a well-preserved wild nature between the mountain and puna jungle; Inca archaeological groups, linked by a path that offers impressive views. In a spiritual environment, the Incas used this itinerary as a pilgrimage route to a sacred citadel, Machu Picchu.
Start Altitude: 3,300 m / 10,827 ft
Max Altitude: 4,215 m / 13,829 ft
End Altitude: 3,600 m / 11,811 ft
Trekking Distance: 16 km / 10 mi
Trekking Time: 10 hours
Wake-up with hot coca tea at sunrise.
4-hour climb to Dead Woman’s Pass – highest point of the trail.
1.5-hour descent to Pacaymayu Valley for lunch.
Visit Runkurakay ruins and Runkurakay Pass.
Explore mysterious Sayaqmarka ruins.
Sunset hike to Chaquiqocha campsite.
Stargazing & Andean constellations after dinner.
Start Altitude: 3,600 m / 11,811 ft
End Altitude: 2,650 m / 8,694 ft
Trekking Distance: 10 km / 6.2 mi
Trekking Time: 5 hours
Sleep in a bit – wake-up at 6:30 am.
1.5-hour hike through cloud forest & panoramic views.
Reach the “City Above the Clouds” – Phuyupatamarka ruins.
Descend to Intipata agricultural terraces.
Arrive early at Wiñay Wayna campsite.
Guided visit to Wiñay Wayna ruins – one of the most beautiful on the trail.
Farewell dinner & celebration with porters and guides.
Enjoy your once in a lifetime adventure to Machu Picchu!
The renowned worldwide Inca Trail to Machu Picchu is one of South America’s top trekking trails. Follow in the footsteps of our Inca noble ancestors to the spectacular Inca citadel, Machu Picchu, and dare to uncover their secrets.
The Inca Trail is where the most brave people choose to hike to Machu Picchu, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Along this journey, you may see rare archeological sites that can only be reached on foot and immerse yourself in the breathtaking Andean mountain environment and lush flora. You’ll face challenges along the road, but the most incredible reward will come when you pass through the Sun Gate for the first time and see the legendary Machu Picchu.
* All times are referential and will depend on the speed of the group.
Your unforgettable Inca Trail hike to Machu Picchu begins bright and early. Depending on your location, our team will pick you up between:
We’ll head to Ollantaytambo first for a delicious, energy-packed breakfast before continuing to KM 82 (Piscacucho) the official starting point of the Classic Inca Trail. Here, you’ll meet your full trekking team of porters, chefs, and your professional guide, all committed to making this journey unforgettable.
Your first few hours of hiking are relatively gentle, giving your body time to adjust. We’ll stop by the Inca ruins of Canabamba, where your guide will explain the significance of ancient water channels and let you admire the breathtaking view of La Veronica glacier.
Continuing on, you’ll see the majestic Llactapata ruins across the Urubamba River, partially hidden by jungle foliage. After a scenic walk to Tarayoc, it’s time for a well-earned lunch surrounded by stunning mountain vistas.
This afternoon, we trek another 3.5 hours to reach our campsite in Ayapata (3,300 m / 10,827 ft). Along the way, you’ll pass by small Andean communities where you can purchase snacks, drinks, or last-minute essentials. We’ll reach camp around 5:00 pm. Relax, enjoy hot tea and snacks, and prepare for a nourishing dinner served around 7:30 pm.
Today is the most demanding day of the Inca Trail trek, so we’ll ease into the morning with a warm cup of coca tea in your tent. After a hearty breakfast, we begin our 4-hour ascent to Dead Woman’s Pass (4,215 m / 13,829 ft) the highest point of the trail.
Take your time, breathe in the crisp Andean air, and let the power of the ancient Inca spirits energize you as you absorb panoramic mountain views. After reaching the summit, we descend for about 1.5 hours into the Pacaymayu Valley, where lunch awaits.
Our afternoon trek begins with a 45-minute climb to Runkurakay ruins, a circular watchtower with beautiful views and nearby waterfalls. From there, we continue to Runkurakay Pass, our second summit of the day, where we can take part in a Pachamama offering a meaningful moment to connect with Mother Earth.
Descending again for about an hour, we arrive at the mysterious Sayaqmarka ruins, an ancient city seemingly suspended in time. After a short final stretch, we’ll reach Chaquiqocha campsite (3,600 m / 11,811 ft). Savor another gourmet mountain dinner and, if the skies are clear, gaze up at the Inca constellations lighting the Andean night.
Congratulations you’ve conquered the toughest day! Today is a bit more relaxed and incredibly scenic. After a 6:30 am wake-up and nourishing breakfast, you’ll hike for 1.5 hours through increasingly lush jungle paths, with stunning contrasts between snow-capped Salkantay and verdant cloud forest.
You’ll soon reach Phuyupatamarka (3,650 m / 11,975 ft), known as the “City Above the Clouds.” From here, descend for around 2.5 hours through ancient steps carved by the Incas to the agricultural terraces of Intipata, where you’ll marvel at sweeping views over the Sacred Valley and Urubamba River.
It’s just a short walk to your final campsite near Wiñay Wayna, one of the most beautiful ruins on the trail. After a hearty lunch, explore this site, whose name means “Forever Young.” With its spiritual atmosphere and expertly engineered terraces, it offers a moving glimpse into Inca civilization.
That evening, you’ll enjoy a small celebration dinner with your trek team guides, porters, and cooks who’ve supported you every step of the way. This is your opportunity to thank them with heartfelt words or a well-deserved tip. Rest early tonight you’re about to visit one of the New Seven Wonders of the World.
Today is the grand finale of your Inca Trail to Machu Picchu adventure. Wake up at 3:30 am and be ready to walk by 4:00 am after a quick boxed breakfast. We’ll be among the first to reach the Sun Gate (Inti Punku) an awe-inspiring moment as the sun rises over Machu Picchu and the ancient city comes into view.
You’ve made it! After days of trekking through history, jungle, and mountain, you’ll finally stand before Machu Picchu, the sacred Lost City of the Incas. A two hour guided tour will bring this spiritual wonder to life. You’ll explore temples, royal quarters, agricultural terraces, and intricate stonework still standing strong after 500 years.
Optional hikes to Huayna Picchu or Huchuy Picchu can be added with pre-booked tickets.
After the tour, descend by bus to Aguas Calientes for lunch at a local restaurant. Later, board the Vistadome or Expedition train to Ollantaytambo, typically in the afternoon, and transfer by vehicle back to Cusco, arriving in the evening with your heart full and your soul forever changed.
Notes:
Price does not include:
Conditions:
All briefings are done at our office at 5:00 PM one or two nights before your trek. If you are unable to make this time, you need to coordinate another time with a member of the Xtreme Tourbulencia office team.
Briefings are approximately 40 minutes long.
Xtreme Tourbulencia is one of the only companies to pick you up directly from your hotel. As long as your hotel is in the center of Cusco city, we will coordinate this pickup based on a time that your guide will discuss at the briefing. Pick up times may vary 30 – 45 minutes based on traffic conditions and previous pickups.
Cusco is an old city with cobblestoned streets and very narrow passageways. Smaller hotels and Airbnbs are often located on streets that cars can´t pass through. They also are frequently on hillsides with long steep climbs, making it difficult to carry luggage. We highly recommend that you book accommodations with better access.
Machu Picchu is most beautiful when seen from above, which is why hiking one of the mountains next to the ruins is very popular to do after your tour.
Huaynapicchu is the most popular and must be booked in advance since it sells out very quickly. This hike takes approximately 1 hour to the top, and another 45 minutes back down. Tickets are sold in time sessions stating when you can start this hike.
The first session is from 7-8 AM, and the 2nd session is from 10-11 AM. Again, this refers to the timeframe when you can start your hike. We usually book the second session so you can enjoy your tour with your guide first. You will do this hike on your own, but your guide will show you where to begin.
Machu Picchu Mountain is a bit longer and a bit less popular. It takes 2 hours to the top and another 1 hours to the bottom. Again there are two time windows – from 7-8 AM and 9-10 AM and we usually purchase the second time window. 4 Day treks, the Trekkers CAN NOT do this hike and enjoy a tour of the ruins. Time will not allow for this.
Hiking either mountain will allow you to have some extra time at the ruins once you complete, as listed above.
| Entry time to Machupicchu (*) | Grace period during months of regular visitor demand (**) | Grace period during months of high visitor demand (from June 1 to October 15 and December 30 and 31) (**) |
|---|---|---|
| 06:00 am | Until 06:30 am | Until 06:45 am |
| 07:00 am | Until 07:30 am | Until 07:45 am |
| 08:00 am | Until 08:30 am | Until 08:45 am |
| 09:00 am | Until 09:30 am | Until 09:45 am |
| 10:00 am | Until 10:30 am | Until 10:45 am |
| 11:00 am | Until 11:30 am | Until 11:45 am |
| 12:00 pm | Until 12:30 pm | Until 12:45 pm |
| 01:00 pm | Until 01:30 pm | Until 01:45 pm |
| 02:00 pm | Until 02:30 pm | Until 02:45 pm |
| 03:00 pm | Until 03:30 pm | Until 03:45 pm |
* Entry time at the main gate of the Inca city of Machupicchu.
** Entry at the control points of Machupicchu, Waynapicchu, and
Huchuypicchu mountains does not have a grace period.
We request you be honest with your guide about any health conditions or concerns you might have. While our guides are not medical professionals, they do have first-aid training. We also work with a clinic in Cusco that can help assist our team.
You are responsible for assessing whether Inca Trait to Machu Picchu is suitable for you. We recommend you to consult your physician to confirm your fitness for travel and participation in any planned activities. You should seek your physician’s advice on vaccinations and medical precautions.
Xtreme TourBulencia will not provide medical advice. It is your responsibility to assess the risks and requirements of each aspect of the Tour based on your unique circumstances, limitations, fitness level, and medical requirements.
If you develop extreme altitude sickness or any other illness that prevents you from hiking, and you still wish to visit Machu Picchu by train, we will work with you to coordinate this trip. Since this will be a new trip, it may require additional fees. We will use as much of the original itinerary to keep costs low.
If you experience issues while hiking and can not continue, a porter will accompany you to the closest road and wait while a car comes to pick you up and bring you to the nearest health clinic.
Group tours are made up of all different types of people, with various hiking skills and ages. By agreeing to a group tour, you agree that some people might be slower or faster than you are.
Everyone can go at their own pace for the trek, and the guide will work with the group to spend time with everyone. Groups might request some modifications to the tour, and the guide will work with everyone to make the best decision for the group.
Unfortunately, strikes are frequent in Peru and can disrupt our tours. Roads are often blocked, and trains stopped. We will make sure your trek continues as planned, even if that means leaving the night before your start date.
Under these circumstances, tours might need to be canceled. But our operations department will coordinate with you in this situation. Your safety is always our top concern and will dictate how we decide.
You are responsible for your items throughout the Tour. Please be diligent about where you leave your things and remember to remove all items from our vans, your tents, restaurant, etc.
Do not leave anything unintended during your hike. Other trekkers or teams might pick it up not knowing whos it is.
Tipping is part of the tradition of any trek to Machu Picchu. While we pay good wages to our entire team, anything extra is always appreciated. Please know that this is not obligatory and that you should never feel pressured into this.
Typically the participants in a group pool their tipping money together for the porters and chef. The amount recommended is different per trek and listed below.
For the guide, this is more personal and needs to be decided based on your relationship with them and done separately from the group. Porters and Chefs prefer soles if possible. Guides are happy with U.S. dollars, Peruvian Soles, or even your credit card.
Travel insurance is inexpensive and strongly recommended. With trips being planned months ahead of time, you never can predict what could happen. Adventure travel includes more risk than the average trip.
Insurance is a way to protect the investment you have made on this journey. We can help recommend an agent to walk you through this type of insurance if needed.
As soon as people book their trip to Peru, specifically Cusco, they start wondering about altitude sickness. The air at high altitudes contains less oxygen than at sea level and forces your body to work harder to get the oxygen it needs.
Over several days at high altitude, your body adjusts to the lower amount of oxygen in the air. For this reason, we always recommend spending at least two days in Cusco before beginning any trek in the Andes. Cusco is a marvelous city with lots to do, so if you have more time to acclimate you won´t be bored.
With altitude sickness, you may first feel like you have the flu or a hangover. You may have a headache, tiredness, loss of appetite, nausea or vomiting, dizziness, trouble sleeping, trouble breathing during exercise. If any of these effects become severe, please contact our office, and we will help you get to a doctor.
Inca Trail Altitude Sickness:
Most of the time, these symptoms will be mild. We always recommend easing into activity slowly, allowing your body to adjust. Drink plenty of fluids such as water or coca tea. Coca tea has been used since ancient times to help prevent altitude sickness.
Leaves from the Coca Plant contain alkaloids that help bring oxygen into your blood, helping your body avoid the effects of altitude sickness. Avoid drinking a lot of alcohol and coffee. They will cause you to urinate more often and become dehydrated. Avoid smoking. Smoking makes it more difficult for your body to get oxygen. Avoid sleeping pills. They may cause shallow breathing at night, making it more difficult for your body to absorb oxygen while you sleep.
Remember the trek to Machu Picchu is not a race. Even those in the best shape will suffer from altitude sickness if they race to the top of the mountain too quickly. Go slow, and it will give your body time to adjust to the elevation.
Your healthcare provider may prescribe medications, such as acetazolamide and dexamethasone, to help prevent altitude sickness. Start the medicine two days before you get to a high altitude. Continue to take it while you are at high altitude.
You must remember that this is your holiday and you do not want to stress out about the possibility of getting sick from the mountains. Do everything slowly and drink lots of water, and enjoy the coca tea. If anything does happen and you, unfortunately, get sick, let your guide know right away. Xtreme Tourbulencia guides are trained to help you get through it.
Of course, the weather is unpredictable. Typically the dry season in Cusco is from April through October, but this does not stop rain from falling in June or the sun from coming out in December so just be prepared.
No matter what month you are doing the trek, make sure that you have rain gear that includes a waterproof jacket, pants, poncho, and waterproof gloves. Many people forget about gloves, but being cold and wet makes hiking very unpleasant.
Also, prepare for four seasons. Several of the treks through the Andes involve various microclimates and you will need to be prepared. Layers are always key since they are easy to adjust to different temperature changes. Be prepared with a warm packable down jacket since the evening will be cold.
It’s also important to note that the weather can change a listed itinerary. There are times that routes become impassable, and our guides will be forced for your safety to rework your tour.
The airport in Cusco currently is only for domestic flights, so all international travelers by plane must disembark in Lima and go through Customs. Even if your flight to Cusco is the same day by the same airline carrier, you must grab your bags in Lima and then check them back in.
The best way to get to Cusco is by air, and there are several options in airlines. LAN tends to be the most expensive but has the most options and flights. Expect delays or flight cancellations. Due to the high altitude of Cusco, it tends to be difficult to land, and any acclimate weather will stop air traffic.
Bus travel is always available, and while the trip can be long, especially from Lima, the buses in Peru are very well maintained and comfortable. This option is strongly encouraged if coming from a city closer to Cusco, like Puno. Lima buses will take about 20 hours to arrive.
Our Breakfast
Our Snacks
After our daily breakfast, our chefs prepare small snacks to take with us on our afternoon snack. This snack is useful when we need energy to continue the hike.
Our Lunch
After walking for 4 hours before a full meal, our lunches always had a great balance of enough protein and controlled amounts (I never wanted to be so full that I wanted to sleep). Our cooks presented some excellent dishes, including:
Our Tea Time
After lunch, we continued our hike along the trail for another 4 hours before reaching camp. After settling into our tents (and cleaning up), we enjoyed the traditional tea time, which took place at 5 p.m. and instantly put us in a relaxing mood. These tea sessions included:
Our Dinner
Our final culinary experience of the day would come at dinnertime with several wonderful three-course meals. Enclosed in their tent, our talented team of chefs compiled the following dishes with only a flashlight and a minimalist propane torch.
NOTE: This is only a sample menu for your hike. Exact food selections are subject to change.
At Xtreme Tourbulencia, we understand that a trip isn’t complete without experiencing the essence of its culture, and gastronomy is at the heart of that experience. That’s why we’ve created an exclusive network of partner restaurants in each destination, carefully selected to ensure your meals are as memorable as the journey.
1. Luggage and Documents
2. Clothing and Footwear
3. Personal Hygiene and Protection
???? 4. Accessories and Others
01 Sleeping bag + sheet
$ 20.00
The North Face or Feather Doite (-15°)
Walking sticks
$ 15.00
They are made of aluminum, so they are lightweight, durable and comfortable, with a rubber toe cap.
Inflatable mattresses
$ 20.00
Thermarest
Tent with shower for the Inca Trail
$ 90.00
Tent with hot shower
Bathroom tent for the Inca Trail
$ 90.00
Simple tent for the Inca Trail
$ 30.00
Doite Kailas or Eureka – 4-day Inca Trail
Chemical Bath
$ 90.00
Camping pillow
$ 20.00
Compressible and lightweight – Foam filling
Portable Chargers
$ 15.00
Tent with hot shower
35L and 60L backpack
$ 15.00
Lightweight camping backpack
Bathroom tent for the Inca Trail
$ 90.00
Entrance to Huaynapicchu or Machupicchu Mountain
$ 70.00
University student ID – $20.00
Upgrade to Vistadome train (round trip)
$ 80.00
Vistadome Train Upgrade (One Way)
$ 40.00
To begin, we’d like to suggest some accommodation options throughout Cusco. Although it’s a small city, more and more streets are becoming traffic-free pedestrian zones.
Therefore, we’ve selected comfortable and well-located hotels that also allow us easy access to pick you up. These are just ideas; you’re free to choose your accommodation.
We highly recommend booking your Classic Inca Trail experience at least 3-6 months in advance. The Peruvian government limits daily permits to 500 people, and spots fill up quickly, especially during peak season (May-September). Early booking ensures you secure your preferred dates and avoid disappointment.
You must bring your original passport – photocopies are not accepted. Your passport information is required when booking, and guards will check it at various checkpoints along the trail. Make sure your passport is valid for at least 6 months from your travel date.
Yes, all Classic Inca Trail tours begin from Cusco city. We recommend arriving at least 2-3 days early to acclimatize to the altitude and explore this beautiful colonial city. This also provides a buffer in case of flight delays.
Our professional porters will carry all camping equipment, cooking supplies, food, and up to 7kg (15lbs) of your personal belongings in your duffel bag. You’ll carry only a day pack with water, snacks, camera, and essentials for the daily hike.
Pack sleeping bag, extra clothes, toiletries, and personal items you won’t need during daily hikes. Remember, porters can only carry 7kg of your gear, so pack wisely. Items like hiking boots should be worn, not packed.
Yes, we provide a portable toilet at each campsite for your comfort and hygiene. This is a significant upgrade from basic facilities and ensures a more pleasant experience throughout your journey.
Altitude sickness is possible since the trail reaches over 4,200m (13,780ft) at Dead Woman’s Pass. Symptoms can include headaches, nausea, and fatigue. We recommend arriving in Cusco 2-3 days early to acclimatize, staying hydrated, and taking it slow. Consult your doctor about altitude sickness medication before traveling.
Weather can be unpredictable, so bring a high-quality rain poncho and waterproof gear. Rain is common, especially during wet season (November-March), but don’t let it discourage you – the trail is beautiful in all conditions, and proper gear will keep you comfortable.
Invest in quality, broken-in hiking boots with good ankle support and grip. The trail includes steep ascents, descents, and ancient stone steps that can be slippery when wet. Your boots should be comfortable for 4 days of hiking and provide excellent traction.
Besides your rain poncho and hiking boots, pack layers for varying temperatures, sun protection, headlamp, trekking poles, water bottles, and personal medications. A detailed packing list will be provided upon booking.
Absolutely! Your Classic Inca Trail tour includes entrance to Machu Picchu on the final day. You’ll arrive at sunrise through the famous Sun Gate (Inti Punku) for an unforgettable first glimpse of this ancient wonder.
These additional climbs require separate permits and are not automatically included. Huayna Picchu mountain offers spectacular views but has limited daily permits. Machu Picchu mountain is less crowded and provides equally stunning panoramas. Both can be arranged for an additional fee, but must be booked well in advance due to limited availability.
The Classic Inca Trail is the only route that follows the original Inca path directly to Machu Picchu. You’ll experience authentic Inca ruins, diverse ecosystems, and the magical sunrise arrival at Machu Picchu through the Sun Gate – an experience unavailable on other routes.
Our experienced guides share deep knowledge of Inca history and local culture. The combination of challenging trekking, spectacular mountain scenery, cloud forest exploration, and the climactic Machu Picchu arrival creates a truly transformative adventure.
The Classic Inca Trail requires moderate to good fitness levels. Day 2 is the most challenging, crossing Dead Woman’s Pass at 4,215m. However, with proper preparation and gradual acclimatization, most people with regular exercise routines can complete this incredible journey.
Start physical training 2-3 months before your trip, focusing on cardio and leg strength. Pack light but don’t skip essentials like your original passport, quality hiking boots, and rain poncho. Most importantly, come with an open mind and ready for adventure – the Inca Trail offers experiences that will stay with you forever.
