Inka Trail Original to Machu Picchu (4D/3N)

Sale!
Inka Trail Original to Machu Picchu (4D/3N)

Inka Trail Original to Machu Picchu (4D/3N)

Original price was: $ 759.00.Current price is: $ 720.00.

INCLUDED:

Are you ready to embark on the Original Inka Trail?
The Original Inka Trail to Machu Picchu—also known as Qhapaq Ñan, or the Royal Road—is one of the greatest adventure routes in the world.

This ancient trail, once the main artery of the Inca Empire, connects territories across six modern countries. Over its 4-day journey, you’ll not only face a challenging trek but also step back in time to experience living history, where cultural treasures and functional ancient engineering still endure.

Along the route, you’ll be immersed in spectacular landscapes and ultimately reach the legendary Machu Picchu—an enduring wonder of the world. More than a physical challenge, this trek is an opportunity to connect with one of the most remarkable achievements of pre-Columbian civilization.

Don’t miss your chance to experience this unique adventure. Book now and uncover the secrets of the Original Inka Trail to Machu Picchu.

 

Guaranteed Safe Checkout
Category:

ORIGINAL INKA TRAIL TO MACHU PICCHU

Tour Itinerary

🗓️ Day 1: CUSCO – Km 82 – LLACTAPATA – HUAYLLABAMBA

Your unforgettable Inka Trail journey begins bright and early with a pickup at 5:00 AM from your accommodation in Cusco. We’ll head towards the Sacred Valley with a scenic 1 hour 45-minute drive to the town of Ollantaytambo, where we’ll take a short break. You’ll have the chance to enjoy breakfast (not included) before continuing for another 50 minutes to Km 82, the official starting point of the trek.

At Km 82, you’ll meet the team of porters and cooks, who will accompany us during the hike. The guide will introduce them and provide a detailed briefing of the day ahead. Before starting, we will pass through the official government checkpoint, where you’ll present your passport and trail permit.

The adventure begins as we follow the Urubamba River (Vilcanota) for about 1 hour until our first rest stop in the community of Miskay.

After the break, we’ll climb gently for around 30 minutes to reach the stunning archaeological site of Llactapata. Here, you’ll discover ancient Inka terraces, ceremonial spaces, and residential areas, brought to life by the guide’s historical insight.

We’ll continue for another 50 minutes before stopping for a well-deserved lunch.

In the afternoon, we hike approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes to our first campsite in the Huayllabamba community, located at an altitude of 3,000 meters (9,842 ft).

Here, we’ll settle into our tents and enjoy a hearty dinner under the stars before turning in for the night.

🗓️ Day 2: HUAYLLABAMBA – DEAD WOMAN’S PASS – PACAYMAYU

Day 2 of your Inka Trail adventure begins bright and early at 4:30 AM, with a gentle wake-up and a warm cup of coca tea served at your tent — the perfect way to start the most challenging yet rewarding day of the trek.

After organizing your backpack and enjoying a nutritious breakfast, we’ll begin the ascent to the highest point of the Inka Trail: the iconic Dead Woman’s Pass, or Warmiwañusqa in Quechua, located at 4,200 meters (13,779 ft) above sea level.

This climb typically takes 4 to 5 hours, depending on your pace and fitness. It’s a demanding segment, but reaching the summit rewards you with awe-inspiring views and a strong sense of accomplishment.

After some rest and photos at the top, we’ll begin the descent, which lasts about 2 to 3 hours, bringing us to Pacaymayu campsite at 3,600 meters (11,811 ft).

There, you’ll enjoy a well-earned lunch and dinner, surrounded by majestic Andean landscapes. It’s the ideal place to relax in your tent and prepare for the next day’s journey.

🗓️ Day 3: PACAYMAYU – PUYUPATAMARCA – WIÑAYHUAYNA

A new day begins on the Inka Trail with a 5:00 AM wake-up call, followed by a hearty breakfast at 5:30 AM. By 6:00 AM, we’re back on the trail, ready for what many consider the most scenic and culturally rich day of the entire journey.

Our first challenge is a 50-minute ascent to Runkurakay (3,800 m / 12,467 ft), a small but impressive circular archaeological site nestled on a ridge. After a short guided exploration, we continue climbing for about 1 hour to reach Runkurakay Pass (4,100 m / 13,451 ft), where panoramic views of the Vilcabamba mountain range and the Pumasillo snow peak await.

From there, we descend for approximately 1.5 hours to the mystical site of Sayacmarca (3,600 m / 11,811 ft), beautifully perched on a mountain slope and known for its maze-like layout.

After another enriching tour, the trail leads us on a 40-minute walk to Chaquicocha, where we’ll stop for a well-deserved lunch.

The second part of the day takes us deeper into the cloud forest along a stretch of Inka Trail that feels almost untouched by time. Surrounded by lush vegetation, we ascend gently to Puyupatamarca (3,580 m / 11,745 ft), the “Town Above the Clouds,” offering awe-inspiring views of mist-shrouded peaks.

A 20-minute descent brings us to the archaeological complex of Puyupatamarca, one of the best-preserved Inka sites, famous for its ceremonial fountains and terraces. From here, you may catch your first glimpse of Machu Picchu Mountain — a magical preview of what lies ahead.

We then begin a spectacular descent lasting 3 to 4 hours, navigating a series of steep Inka stairs and soaking in views of the majestic Urubamba Valley.

Finally, we reach Wiñayhuayna (2,700 m / 8,858 ft), a lush and unforgettable campsite that many consider the most beautiful of the trek. Before settling in, we’ll visit the Wiñayhuayna ruins, meaning “Forever Young” in Quechua — a poetic and peaceful place to reflect on the journey so far.

After a delicious dinner, we’ll rest and prepare for the magical final day.

🗓️ Day 4: WIÑAYHUAYNA – SUN GATE – INKA CITADEL OF MACHU PICCHU

The final and most anticipated day of the Original Inka Trail begins very early, with a 4:00 AM wake-up, followed by a light breakfast at 4:30 AM. By 5:00 AM, we start walking in the soft light of dawn, along a scenic stretch of the original Inka road, enveloped by lush, misty forest.

After approximately 1 hour and 20 minutes, we arrive at Inti Punku, or the Sun Gate, the original ceremonial entrance to Machu Picchu. From here, you’ll witness an unforgettable sight: the first panoramic view of the Inka citadel of Machu Picchu as the rising sun bathes it in golden light — a moment that makes the entire journey worthwhile.

We then continue to the official Machu Picchu checkpoint, where we will show our permits and passports before entering the citadel.

Once inside, your guide — who has accompanied you throughout the four days — will lead a 2-hour guided tour of the most important temples, plazas, and sacred areas of this UNESCO World Heritage Site. This visit is aligned with current government regulations, ensuring a smooth and respectful experience of the site.

After the guided tour, you’ll begin your descent to the town of Aguas Calientes, also known as Machu Picchu Pueblo. You can choose between:

  • 🥾 A 1 hour and 30-minute walk along a scenic path.

  • 🚌 A 30-minute bus ride (not included; $12 USD per person).

Once in town, you’ll have free time to enjoy lunch (not included), explore the village, or simply relax after your journey.

Later in the day, we board the train to Ollantaytambo, a ride that lasts approximately 1 hour and 40 minutes. Upon arrival, a private bus transfer takes us back to Cusco, completing the return journey in about 1 hour and 30 minutes.

And with that, your epic adventure on the Original Inka Trail comes to a close — one that will stay in your heart forever.

❗Important Travel Notes for Your Inka Trail & Machu Picchu Visit

🏔️ Huayna Picchu and Machu Picchu Mountain After the Inka Trail?

Many travelers ask whether they should hike Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain after completing the Original Inka Trail. While both offer unique views of the citadel, you don’t necessarily need to do them — from the Sun Gate (Inti Punku), you’ll already have an exceptional panoramic view of Machu Picchu, one that few other travelers experience.

Additionally, after 4 days of trekking, your body may be too fatigued for another challenging ascent.

🧭 Climbing Details:

  • Huayna Picchu Mountain: ~1 hour 20 minutes

  • Machu Picchu Mountain: ~2 hours

  • Ticket Price: $60 USD per person (subject to availability)

  • Important: Advance reservation is essential, as tickets sell out quickly.

❗Important Travel Notes for the Original Inka Trail 4-Day Trek

🥾 Is the Original Inka Trail Only for Professional Hikers?

No — the Inka Trail is suitable for anyone who enjoys hiking and being in nature. You don’t need to be an athlete, but proper acclimatization is crucial to enjoy the experience fully.

🫁 How to Acclimatize Properly?

Arrive in Cusco at least 2–3 days before the trek. This gives your body time to adjust to the altitude and reduces the risk of altitude sickness.

🗓️ Recommended Acclimatization Itinerary:

  • Day 1: City tour (half-day)

  • Day 2: Sacred Valley tour (full day)

  • Day 3: Rest and briefing at the Okidoki office with your guide

🎒 What Equipment Is Provided?

We provide all the essential trekking equipment:

  • High-quality tents

  • Comfortable inflatable mattresses

  • Warm sleeping bags

🧺 What Do Porters Carry?

Our team of porters will carry:

  • Tents

  • Mattresses

  • Food and kitchen gear

🎒 What Should You Carry?

You’ll be responsible for:

  • Your sleeping bag

  • A small backpack with personal items (change of clothes, toiletries, etc.)

📝 Pro tip: Your guide will review everything you need to bring during the pre-trek briefing.

⛰️ What’s the Most Difficult Day?

Day 2 is considered the most challenging, as you’ll reach the highest point of the trail: 4,200 meters above sea level. Without proper acclimatization, altitude sickness is more likely, so arriving early to Cusco is highly recommended.

👶 What’s the Recommended Age?

The trail is suitable for children from 6 years old, provided they are in good health and properly acclimatized. Families with children have successfully completed the trek with our guidance, as long as they follow the recommended preparation.

📆 When Is the Trail Closed?

The Original Inka Trail is closed every February for maintenance and restoration work. All other months are open for trekking.

Important points

🧳 Porter Service & Equipment

  • The porters carry shared camping equipment and food for the 4-day trek.

  • You are responsible for carrying your own personal equipment, including:

    • Sleeping bag

    • Inflatable mat (provided)

    • Change of clothes and personal items

  • 🔁 Optional: If you prefer not to carry your own equipment, you can hire a personal porter (up to 16 kg max) for $200 USD.
    ⚠️ This must be reserved in advance.

🏕️ Tent Accommodation

  • All tents are shared between 2 or 3 people.

  • If you’re traveling alone and prefer a private tent, you can request it for $30 USD for the entire trek.

📅 Reservation Conditions & Cancellations

✅ How to Reserve

  • You must provide the exact date of your trek.
    ❌ Changes or cancellations are not permitted.

💰 Deposit Policy

  • A deposit is required to confirm your reservation.
    This is used to:

    • Reserve trekking services

    • Purchase your personal, non-refundable Machu Picchu entrance ticket

🎟️ Note: Machu Picchu tickets are personalized, non-transferable, and cannot be changed or canceled once issued.

❌ Cancellation Policy

  • No changes, cancellations, or refunds are accepted.

  • The deposit is not a profit for us — it’s used to:

    • Secure your entry ticket to Machu Picchu

    • Pre-book logistical services for the trek

  • These services are paid in advance to our providers. If canceled, we lose our deposits — your reservation is a commitment.

⚠️ Making a reservation means blocking a space that could otherwise be offered to another traveler.

🎓 Student Discount Requirements – Read Carefully

  • The ISIC card is not accepted due to widespread forgery.

  • Letters, certificates, or enrollment documents are also not valid.

  • The student discount is $20 USD, but to qualify you must present:

✅ Valid Requirements:

  1. Original plastic (PVC) student card

  2. Issued by your university

  3. Shows:

    • Your full name

    • A valid date (2025 or 2026 only)

    • Your university’s name

    • Your photo

  4. You must be 25 years old or younger

  5. A copy of your original passport must be submitted along with the student card.

📤 These documents must be sent at the time of booking. Late submissions will not be accepted.

⚠️ If your student card does not meet these criteria, we strongly recommend you purchase a regular adult ticket to avoid issues.
Without a valid card on the day of entry, your student ticket will be invalid, and you will be required to buy a new ticket (subject to availability).

What’s included

Your trekking experience with Okidoki Travel Peru includes everything you need for a safe, organized, and unforgettable adventure:

🎟️ Tickets & Entry

  • Entrance ticket to the Inka Trail

  • Entrance ticket to Machu Picchu

🧭 Pre-Trek Briefing

  • Detailed tour information session one day before departure
    📍 Okidoki Travel Peru Office – Calle Nueva Alta #644, Okidoki Hostal, Cusco

🏕️ Equipment Provided

  • High-quality sleeping bag for cold nights

  • Walking stick to support you on steep sections

🚐 Transportation

  • Private transport: Cusco → Ollantaytambo → Km 82 (start of trail)

  • Train return: Aguas Calientes → Ollantaytambo

  • Bus transport: Ollantaytambo → Cusco

  • Bus ticket to/from Machu Picchu site

🍽️ Meals

  • 3 breakfasts

  • 3 lunches

  • 3 dinners

🧑‍🏫 Guided Experience

  • Professional bilingual guide (English & Spanish) for all 4 days of the Inka Trail

What’s not included

While your trek with Okidoki Travel Peru covers most essentials, the following are not included in the package:

🥾 Equipment & Extras

  • Pair of hiking sticks: US $10 (optional rental)

🍽️ Meals

  • First breakfast (before the trek begins)

  • Last lunch (after visiting Machu Picchu)

💧 Drinks & Refreshments

  • Water, cold drinks (beer, champagne, whiskey, etc.)

🎁 Tips

  • Voluntary tips for porters, cooks, and your guide (not mandatory, but appreciated)

🚌 Transportation

  • Bus ticket to go down from Machu Picchu to Aguas Calientes: US $12 (optional if you prefer not to walk down)

What You need to bring

To ensure a safe and comfortable trek, please make sure you pack the following essential items:

📄 Documents

  • ✅ Original passport (Required for trail entry and checkpoints)

🎒 Gear & Clothing

  • 🎒 Backpack (40 liters or more) – to carry your personal equipment

  • 🧥 Rain jacket or poncho – for unexpected Andean weather

  • 👟 Sturdy walking/hiking shoes – suitable for mountain trails

🌙 Essentials

  • 🔦 Headlamp or flashlight – for early morning or nighttime use

  • 🧻 Towel and toilet paper

  • 💊 Personal medications

🌞 Protection

  • 🧴 Sunscreen

  • 🕶️ Sunglasses

  • 👒 Hat or cap – for sun protection

  • 🦟 Mosquito repellent

🍫 Extras

  • 🍬 Chocolates, candies or snacks – for quick energy boosts

  • 📷 Camera – to capture unforgettable moments

  • 💵 Extra cash – for tips, souvenirs, or emergencies

FAQs

Things You Should Know About the Original Inka Trail to Machu Picchu

1. 🗓️ When should I book the Original Inka Trail to Machu Picchu?

The Inka Trail is one of the most iconic treks in the world — and permits sell out quickly.

  • Tickets usually sell out 4 to 5 months in advance, especially during the high season (May–September).

  • Only 500 people can enter the trail each day, including guides, porters, and cooks.

  • That means only around 200 travelers get to walk the Inka Trail each day.

  • The trail includes only the entrance to Machu Picchu. If you also want to climb Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain, request it in advance when booking your trek.

✅ Tip: Book as early as possible to secure your spot.

2. ⛰️ How long is the Original Inka Trail?

The Classic Inka Trail is 40 kilometers (25 miles) long and takes 4 days to complete. It winds through breathtaking landscapes — from high Andean mountains to lush cloud forests — and leads you to Machu Picchu through the Sun Gate (Intipunku).

Highlights of the trek:

  • Visit ancient Inka sites like Llactapata, Runkurakay, Sayacmarca, Phuyupatamarca, and Wiñaywayna.

  • Enjoy incredible panoramic views before arriving at Machu Picchu.

  • After the trek, most travelers return to Cusco by train.

  • Some choose to relax in the hot springs of Aguas Calientes or extend their stay for more tours.

We also offer a 2-day Short Inka Trail for those with limited time or seeking a less demanding experience.

3. 🌄 What is the highest altitude on the Inka Trail?

The highest point is the Abra Warmiwañusca (Dead Woman’s Pass), located at 4,224 meters / 13,860 feet above sea level.

You may experience altitude sickness (soroche). Common symptoms include:

  • Headaches

  • Nausea

  • Loss of appetite

  • Fatigue

✅ To reduce the effects:

  • Acclimatize in Cusco or the Sacred Valley for at least 2 days before the trek.

  • Drink coca tea or chew coca leaves like the Incas once did.

  • Stay hydrated and rest often.

  • Your professional guide is trained to assist in case of altitude-related issues.

4. 🚫 Can I hike the Original Inka Trail on my own?

No. The Inka Trail is protected by Peruvian law and can only be accessed with a licensed tour operator and guide.

  • Independent trekking is not allowed.

  • Permits must be obtained through an authorized travel agency, like Okidoki Travel Peru.

  • All logistics — transport, permits, guides, meals, porters — are handled by the agency.

⚠️ Only authorized tour operators can secure Inka Trail permits.

5. ❗Why is it important to book the Inka Trail in advance?

The Inka Trail is one of the most sought-after treks in the world. Its historical stone paths, stunning mountain views, and cultural richness attract travelers from every corner of the globe.

  • Only 500 permits are issued daily.

  • High season (May–September) fills up fast — many dates are sold out 3–4 months ahead.

  • If permits are sold out, we recommend alternative treks like:

    • Salkantay Trek

    • Lares Trek

    • Choquequirao Trek

    • Ausangate Trek

    • Huchuy Qosqo Trek

    • Ancascocha Trek

Each of these routes ends at Machu Picchu and offers a unique experience.

6. 🎒 What should I pack for the Inka Trail?

Visit our full list here: What You Need to Bring

7. 📅 What’s the best time of year to do the Inka Trail?

  • Best season: May to September (dry season, best weather)

  • Rainy season: November to March (fewer tourists, but wetter)

  • The trail is closed in February for maintenance.

8. 🥾 Is the Inka Trail difficult?

Yes, it is considered moderately to highly difficult due to:

  • High altitude

  • Steep climbs and descents

  • Long walking days (up to 10 hours)

However, most reasonably fit people can complete it with proper preparation and guidance.

9. 👧 Is there an age limit?

  • Minimum age: 12 years (recommended)

  • Maximum age: There is no strict upper age limit, but participants should be in good physical condition.

10. ✅ Why choose Okidoki Travel Peru?

  • Authorized Inka Trail operator

  • Experienced bilingual guides

  • Quality camping equipment

  • Delicious meals and ethical treatment of porters

  • Real office in Cusco (Calle Nueva Alta #644, inside Okidoki Hostal)

View Trek Map

Related products

Inka Trail Original to Machu Picchu (4D/3N)Inka Trail Original to Machu Picchu (4D/3N)
Original price was: $ 759.00.Current price is: $ 720.00.