INCA TRAIL HIKE PRIVATE SERVICE 4 DAYS

TREK FACTS.

• Tour Type: Hiking, Camping, Adventure, History
• Total distance: 45 km/28 miles
• Difficulty: Moderate to Challenging
• Considerations: Permission required.
• Remarks: We recommended at less 2-Day of Acclimatization in Cusco, equal or higher altitude.

SHORT ITINERARY

Day 1: First Trekking day: Cusco – Ollantaytambo – Km 82 (Piskacucho) – Llactapata – Lluchapampa.

At 5:30AM, we will embark on a tour of Cusco by tourist bus to km 82, the starting point of the hike. During the excursion, there will be a 30-minute stop in the town of Ollantaytambo.

Day 2: The hardest day: Llulluchapampa – Dead woman`s pass – Pacaymayo – Chakiqhocha.

Begin your journey early, ascending the long and steep path to Warmiwañusca, commonly referred to as Dead Woman’s Pass. This highpoint of the trek reaches 4,200m (13,769 ft). Later in the day, we will traverse the second pass situated at 4,000m.

Day 3: A beautiful day: Chakiqhocha – Phuyupatamarka – Intipata, Wiñaywayna.

Tour the cloud forest on a gentle climb to Phuyupatamarka, walking along the original Incan Trail. On a clear day, take in the spectacular views of the Urubamba Valley and the “Pumasillu” Mountain Range.

Day 4: Explore Machu Picchu and return to Cusco.

The tour begins on the final day of the hike, commencing pre-dawn to reach the Sun Gate before sunrise. You’ll wake up at 03:30AM and have breakfast at 4:00AM. After a 5-minute walk to the checkpoint, it will open at 5:30AM. Prepare to witness the incredible INCA ruins of Machu Picchu. We’ll hike for 2 hours before arriving at Machu Picchu to enjoy the tour. Afterward, you’ll catch a bus to Aguas Calientes town for lunch. Take your time to eat and relax before boarding the train back to Cusco in the afternoon.

DETAILED ITINERARY FOR INCA TRAIL HIKE

Here is a guideline for the 4-day Inca Trail Hike itinerary. The camping sites may be adjusted based on the group’s progress and the guide’s discretion. We will always select the best campsites.

Day 1: Bus from Cusco to Km 82 (Piskacucho) – Llactapata – Lluchapampa.

4-Day Inca Trail Hike begins when we pick you up from your hotel at 05:30 a.m and travel on our tourist bus for 3:30 hours to km 82 or Pisqhakucho. Make sure you carry your original passport and your ISIC card if applicable. Along the way, we’ll stop to take pictures and also in the town of Ollantaytambo to use bathroom, get breakfast and purchase some items for the trek; don’t forget some coca leaves.

Upon arrival to km 82 or Pisqhakucho, we’ll meet our porters who will carry  the camping equipment and your duffel bags during the trek. With your passports in hand, we will pass the control point and cross a suspension footbridge over the Urubamba River and start the Inca Trail Hike with a gentle climb for 10 minutes approximately, after that the trail continues undulate for two hours; this part of the trail reward you with superb views of Veronica Mountain (5,750 masl), local agriculture and different types of cactus.

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After two hours of trekking, we’ll arrive to Miskay where we will take the trail to the left ascending gradually to Willkaraccay Inca ruins situated high above the mouth of the Cusichaca River from where we’ll have stunning views of Llactapata Inca archaeological site; after receiving a story from our guide, we will continue with a gentle descend to Cusichaca Valley where we’ll see a large quantity of Inca terraces used in Inca times for agriculture especially for growing maize: a prestige crop that needed irrigation in the dry highlands.

The Inca Trail continues undulated until Huayllabamba community (3,000 masl) where our lunch will be served, after lunch we´ll enjoy a good rest and then continue the hardest part of the day; we’ll climb for four hours through Huaruru Valley which will reward you with amazing mountain scenery; this part of the Inca Trail climbs up zigzag and in some places there are Inca steps, we recommended you walking slowly at your own speed. The camp will be at LLullacha camp located at 3,800m from where you’ll have a great views of the Wayanay snow mountain (5,550m) and below the valley of Wayllabamba.

• Meals: LD
• Accommodation: Camping tent
• Maximum Altitude: 3,800 masl camping site
• Minimum Altitude: 2,750 masl begging point
• Distance Travelled: 15km

Day 2: Llulluchapampa – Dead woman`s pass – Pacaymayo – Chakiqhocha.

At 7:30 AM, kick start your adventurous trek after a delicious breakfast. Our thrilling journey on the Inca Trail Hike begins with a two-hour ascent to the majestic Dead Woman’s Pass, towering at 4,200 masl. Prepare to be captivated by the breathtaking snow-capped mountains and picturesque valleys that stretch out before you. Take plenty of pictures and soak in the awe-inspiring vistas of the Andes during a well-deserved break.

Once you’ve recharged, we’ll embark on a gentle 2:30-hour descent to the enchanting Pacaymayu Valley (3,600 masl), where a mouthwatering lunch awaits. After refueling and replenishing your water bottle, we’ll continue our pilgrimage with a scenic 1:15-hour zigzag up to Runkuraqhay (3,800 masl), an intriguing Inca ruin steeped in history. Your knowledgeable trekking guide will share captivating stories along the way. Prepare to be amazed as we ascend for 1:00 hour to the second pass at 4,000 masl. In clear weather, you’ll be mesmerized by the view of the iconic Dead Woman’s Pass behind you, as well as the awe-inspiring expanse of snow-capped peaks that lie ahead.

From the second pass, the majority of the trail gradually descends or undulates for 1:30 hours, leading us to the awe-inspiring Sayacmarca ruins. This captivating Inca town offers breathtaking vantage points of the Aobamba Valley, where the Andes bid farewell and the captivating Amazon Jungle beckons. After exploring the enchanting ruins of Sayacmarka, we’ll venture through a beautiful cloud forest for 20 minutes to our Chakiqhocha campsite situated at 3,600 masl.

Get ready for an unforgettable tour filled with natural wonders, historical marvels, and unforgettable landscapes along the legendary Inca Trail.

• Meals: BLD
• Accommodation: camping tents
• Maximum Altitude: 4,200 masl
• Minimum Altitude: 3,600 masl
• Distance Travelled: 15 km approx.
• Approximate Walking Time: 7-8 hours

Day 3: Chakiqhocha – Phuyupatamarka – Intipata, Wiñaywayna.

This is one of the most beautiful campsites of the Inca Trail Hike but is cold; we’ll start trekking at 07:30 a.m. The Inca Trail Hike continues undulating for two hours until the Inca ruins of Phuyupatamarka (3,600m); the name means “Town in the Clouds”; Phuyupatamarka was an important Inca temple dedicated to the water; provably the place where the Inca pilgrims showered to purify their sins before arrive to Machu Picchu.

From here, we´ll continue descending about 3,200 stone steps to Wiñaywayna (2,600masl) where our lunch will be served. Along the way we can see great quantity of flora and fauna; after lunch you can rest and in the afternoon the guide we’ll take you for an easy walk (10 minutes) to the impressive Inca ruins of Wiñaywayna; it was an agricultural site from where the Incas supply the food to the inhabitants of Machu Picchu; you still can see nowadays the terraces, the water aqueduct and the water baths.

The camping site will be very close to the Inca ruins of Wiñayhuana. As you can see today the walk is only half day because you’ll rets for the next day which is the most important day of the trek since you’ll wakeup very early and explore Machu Picchu the main highlight of the trip.

• Meals: BLD
• Accommodation: camping tents
• Maximum Altitude: 3,600 masl
• Minimum Altitude: 2,600 masl
• Distance Travelled: 10 Km approx.

Day 4: Wiñaywayna – Machu Picchu – “Aguas Calientes” – Cusco.

From Wiñayhuayna to Machu Picchu the hike will take us 2-hours but we’ll stop at Inti Punku from where you’ll see for the first time the Inca citadel of Machu Picchu. Today we’ll wake at 3:30am; have breakfast at 4:00am and after that we’ll start to walk to the gate which will be open at 5:30am; at this time the sky starts getting light and the first rays of the sun reach Machu Picchu at about 7:00am.

The trail contours a mountainside and drops into cloud forest before coming to an almost vertical flight of 72 steps leading up to the final pass at Intipunku (Sun Gate). Suddenly the whole of Machu Picchu is spread out before you in all its glory – a fantastic sight for all.

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When you arrive at the ruins you’ll have plenty of time to take photos of Machu Picchu from the classic view point. When the group is back together again we descend to the main entrance where you can safely leave your large backpacks. You can also go to the toilet and have a quick coffee in the restaurant just outside the entrance. The group will re-enter to Machu Picchu with the same guide for a complete tour of the major sectors. The tour takes about 2 -3 hours, and then you’ll have some free time to explore around.

After the tour you’ll take the bus down to Aguas Calientes town for lunch in one of the restourants (The bus journey takes about 25 minutes); after your lunch you can walk around. The train departs from Aguas Calientes at approximately 14.55 (time can vary subject to train ticket availability), the train will take you in 1:45 hours to Ollantaytambo from where we’ll transfer you to Cusco in our private car.

• Meals: B
• Accommodation: Not Included,
• Maximum Altitude: 2,700 masl
• Minimum Altitude: 2,400 masl (Machu Picchu)
• Distance Travelled: 5 Km approx.
• Approximate Walking Time: 2 hours

Inclusions for Inca Trail Hike

It’s include all necessary things for a successful tour:

• Pre-departure briefing at 6:00 pm the night before of your tour in our office or in your hotel.
• Collection from your hotel in Cusco from (05:00 am) or Sacred Valley (07:40 am).
• Private bus to km 82 or Piskacucho village (trek starting point)
• 9 Full meals for the entire tour (3 Hot Breakfast, 3 Hot Lunches 3 Hot Dinners) + snacks (vegetarian option, gluten, wheat free or special diets upon your request.)
• Expert Gourmet Mountain cooks and cooks assistant.
• Permit for Inca Trail Park and Machu Picchu Sanctuary.
• General Porters to carry camping equipment, tents, table, stools and cooking gear.
• Personal porter to carry 7-kilos of your personal belongings in duffle bags that we provide.
• Excellent experienced top tour guides 2 guide over 8 persons
• Dining and kitchen tent, camping tables and stools
• Boiled water provided from 2nd day for four water bottle.
• Two person per tent (clean, new spacious 4 person dome igloo tent)
• Air sleeping mattress or thermal rest, (Pillows by request)
• Buckets of hot water for washing in your tent every day.
• Emergency First-aid kit and Oxygen assistance.
• Toilet tent with biodegradable system.
• Two hours of guided tour within Machu Picchu and extra time for yourself.
• Bus down from Machu Picchu to Aguas Calientes town.
• Tourist Train Expedition class to return to Ollantaytambo train Station and bus to Cusco (Transfer to your hotel)

Exclusions:

• Breakfast on the first day at “Ollantaytambo” town US $10
• Lunch on the final day at Aguas Calientes town US$ 15 – 25pp
• Sleeping bag (You can hire at SUNRISE PERU TREK office)
• Tips for your staff, guides, cooks, porters etc. (US$30-US$40 approx. )

PRICE INFO FOR INCA TRAIL HIKE

• Daily Departure with at least 02 people.
• Before makes your booking please check availability.
• Includes a Personal Porter who will carry your personal items up to 07 kilos (including the sleeping bag: 02 kgs), we will provide you a duffle bag for this purpose.

Additionals:

As you can see in our additional options, there are several optional upgrades that you can include in this trip. Below is a quick price list.

• Huayna Picchu: $65 per person
• Vistadome train (one way): $40 per person
• Sleeping bag rental: $20 per person
• Set of sticks: $15 per person
• Single Tent supplement $30.00

Your Personal Porter Is Included!

Trekking in Hight altitudes can be very difficult if you don´t have enough experience; in this trekking package is included your personal porter to carry your personal belongings for the entire trek (7-kilos); for this we provide you a duffel bag in which you’ll put all your personal things. Remember that the porter will carry from camp to camp which means that you won’t have access to your duffel bag during the day. So that we recommended you to have a small backpack (30lt) to carry the elemental things like: water, snacks, camera, sunblock, insect repellent, one jacket and rain gear.

WE RECOMMEND TO BRING:

• Original passport and copies (and Student card (ISIC) green card if you are student ). Note ( you have to bring your student card to machu picchu because you are going to be required to show at the Machupicchu control point
• Travel Insurance card is essential
• Sleeping bag (not included)
• Hiking water proof boots (with ankle protectors )
• Waterproof jacket or rain poncho
• Sun hat and gloves
• 3-4 T-shirts / shirts
• Comfortable hiking zip off trousers
• Rain pants
• Bathing suit (for hot springs in Aguas Calientes)
• Sun protection cream ( factor 25 recommended )
• Insect Repellent ( for mosquitos )15 % of deet at least
• Water bottle.
• Water purifying tablets (Micropur recommended)
• Toilet paper and wet wipes
• Personal medication
• Camera and films
• Torch with spare batteries (flashlight) we recommend headlights
• Extra contribution suggested in soles money for tipping porters, cook and guide. and for any emergency.

Essential Information About 4-Day Inca Trail Hike

DECRIPTION FOR INCA TRAIL HIKE

Embark on the Private Inca Trail Hike – a unique, immersive, and customizable adventure that features the most splendid trek of Peru. This journey is not just a trek, but a doorway to ancient traditions, stunning landscapes, and a timeless world of the Incas. Our private service offers an elite team, solely dedicated to your party, who ensures that your comfort is their utmost priority as you traverse the mountainous jungle trek.

The Inca Trail isn’t merely a means of getting somewhere; it’s an integral part of your journey into the heart of the Inca civilization, leading to the sacred citadel of Machu Picchu. Ranked from moderate to challenging, the trek peaks at 4,200masl. Hence, acclimatization is crucial for your health and experience. If you’re arriving from sea level, we recommend spending at least two full days in Cusco before embarking on the trek.

During this period, you’ll get ample time to acclimatize, explore the beautiful city of Cusco, and visit nearby Inca ruins. Discover the profound history of the Inca Trail, explore hidden Inca buildings, mingle with the locals, and eventually, behold the grandeur of Machu Picchu. Check out our See Here Inca Trail Permits for more information.

FOOD FOR PRIVATE INCA TRAIL HIKE

Our Private Inca Trail Hike to Machu Picchu offers you not only an unforgettable trekking experience but also a culinary journey that is second to none. Our chefs, the best in the Andes, take great pride in serving you meals that outshine even the most celebrated restaurants in Cusco. They are well-trained to cater to your specific dietary needs and preferences, ensuring that every meal is both delicious and nutritious.

From breakfast to dinner, and even afternoon tea, every meal is meticulously planned and presented. Expect a generous spread of local fruits such as bananas, oranges, papayas, and watermelon. Enjoy a range of hot beverages including instant coffee, tea, and comforting hot chocolate. Our afternoon “Tea” time is not to be missed, featuring treats like peanuts, popcorn, fried bread, and biscuits.

For those with special diets, rest assured that we can accommodate your needs. However, we kindly request that you inform us in advance and remind your guide during your trek briefing. If you’re on a vegetarian diet, be aware that protein options might be limited, and you might want to consider bringing protein supplements.

The meals and snacks are all-inclusive until the last lunch, after which you can explore the variety of restaurants in the town of Aguas Calientes. Embark on the Private Inca Trail Hike and savor the best of the Andean culinary experience!

WHY SUNRISE PERU TREK?

Sunrise Peru Trek is not just another tour operator. We are the best in the business when it comes to the Inca Trail Hike to Machu Picchu. Our extensive experience and strong reputation speak for themselves. We take great pride in providing exceptional service and ensuring the well-being of our clients and local communities.

Our passion for the mountains is unrivaled, and we are dedicated to the health, education, and overall welfare of our Inca trail porters and guides. This commitment sets us apart from the rest. We have established the highest standards for best practices on the Inca Trail Hike and closely collaborate with the National Park to benefit all involved.

As part of our devotion to our team and the local community, we proudly sponsor a local porter project and offer one of the highest salaries on the trek. Safety and personalized attention are of utmost importance to us, which is why we maintain one of the highest guide to client ratios on the mountain. Additionally, we also carry portable oxygen to effectively manage altitude sickness, should the need arise.

Choose Sunrise Peru Trek for an unforgettable tour experience that goes beyond exploration. By joining us, you will support local communities and responsible tourism, making a positive impact with every step you take.

LOCAL, INDIGENOUS OWNED COMPANY.

Sunrise Peru Trek is a local, indigenous-owned company founded by Mauro Pedraza Valverde. Born and raised in Cusco, Mauro started from the ground up, gaining invaluable experience as a porter while studying tourism at the University. With his growing proficiency in English, he transitioned to working in an agency office, ensuring all trekkers were well taken care of. Over 25 years as a guide, Mauro honed his skills and observed the mistreatment of porters by some companies, including heavy loads and inadequate compensation. Motivated to improve the lives of those in Cusco, he established Sunrise Peru Trek. With the support of his trusted friends and family, Mauro built a company with a steadfast commitment to both his team and clients.

PERSONALIZED EXPERIENCES.

Our commitment to personalized experiences means that we prioritize catering to your unique needs. Whether you have dietary restrictions, are celebrating a joyous occasion, or require itinerary adjustments, our dedicated office team will be by your side, ensuring a flawless vacation.

Here is a detailed, impressive, and factual Quora answer on how difficult the Inca Trail hike is:

The Inca Trail hike to Machu Picchu is considered a moderate to difficult trek, but with proper preparation and reasonable fitness levels, it is very achievable for most people. Here’s a comprehensive look at what makes this iconic hike challenging, along with tips for making the most of the experience:

Distance & Elevation Gain.

The Inca Trail consists of a 26-mile trek through the Andes mountains, starting at an elevation of around 9,000 feet and reaching nearly 14,000 feet at the highest pass. The average hiking distance is 13 km (8 miles) per day for 4 days, with the longest day covering 16 km. These distances are manageable for most hikers, but paired with significant elevation gains of up to 1,200 feet on pass crossing days, it makes for a strenuous workout. Proper acclimatization to the altitude and pacing yourself during the climbs is key.

Difficult Terrain.

The trail is not a smooth, groomed hike. Expect plenty of uneven steps, rocks and boulders to navigate, and high steps cut into stone. There are ample ancient Inca stone paths still beautifully intact, but also expect areas of unmaintained trail with loose gravel, slippery stones, and narrow ledges with drop-offs. Trekking poles are highly recommended for balance and knee relief. Proper hiking boots with ankle support and traction are a must.

High Elevation & Altitude Sickness.

The maximum elevation of 14,000 feet can cause altitude sickness for some, especially when climbing up to the two high passes of Warmiwañusca (13,779 ft) and Runkurakay (13,788 ft). Nausea, headaches, and exhaustion are common symptoms that can impact your trekking stamina. To minimize risk, spend a few days acclimatizing in Cusco before the trek, stay very hydrated, and pace yourself by going “pole, pole” (slowly, slowly in Swahili). Standing still at the high passes too long can also trigger symptoms.

Permits Required.

Due to strict limits on traffic allowed on the trail, permits are required for guiding companies and individuals. Permits often sell out 6-12 months in advance, so planning and booking early is essential. If you plan to trek independently without a guide, solo permits are very limited and difficult to secure. Going with an official guide service is by far the easiest option.

By understanding the challenges involved and coming prepared both physically and mentally, the Inca Trail trek is an achievable bucket list adventure. The jaw-dropping views of the Andes in all directions and exploring magnificent Inca ruins along the way make every difficult step worthwhile. Pacing yourself, staying hydrated, packing proper gear, and training ahead of time will help you complete the iconic Inca Trail trek. Just be sure to book permits far in advance to secure your spot on the trail!

Important Inca Sites on the INCA TRAIL HIKE

The Inca Trail Hike presents several significant Inca sites that are worth exploring:

Day 1:

– Llactapata: Situated at an elevation of 2,800masl, this Inca ruin features 100 rooms and numerous terraces used for agriculture, particularly maize cultivation.

Day 2:

– Dead Woman’s Pass: Though not an archaeological site, it deserves mention due to its distinct topography, resembling a woman lying on her back. Located at 4,200masl, this challenging section of the trail offers breathtaking views.
– Runkurakay: Considered one of the Inca Tambo, this round-shaped structure at 3,800masl, known as the “Round Shape Balcony,” served as an Inca lodge.

Day 3:

– Inca Tunnel: Carved by the Incas in solid rock, this 15-meter-long tunnel is a remarkable feature of the Inca Trail, allowing passage through an otherwise impassable section.
– Phuyupatamarka: Translated as “the cloudy place,” this stunning Inca ruin located at 3,800masl can be reached by descending a long flight of stairs. It offers breathtaking views and contains six flowing fountains.
– Intipata: Meaning “Sunny Slope,” this site boasts a large number of Inca terraces that were utilized for agricultural purposes.

Wiñaywayna: Translating to “Forever Young,” Wiñaywayna is considered one of the most picturesque Inca ruins along the Inca Trail. It showcases finely carved stone buildings, a complex fountain and bath system, and an abundance of Inca terraces.

On Day 4th, the journey continues.

Inti Punku: Also known as the Sun Gate, it served as the primary entrance to the sacred site of Machu Picchu.

Rules of Use for the Inca Trail Hike:

1. Animal hunting and deforestation are strictly prohibited.
2. The flora and fauna along the trail are protected by the natural World Heritage organization and must not be disturbed.
3. Stick to the marked paths at all times and refrain from veering off for any reason.
4. Camp only in designated areas; camping inside archaeological sites or restricted zones is strictly prohibited.
5. Carry all rubbish and waste in plastic bags and dispose of them properly at the end of your trek.
6. Campfires pose a danger and are not allowed.
7. Respecting the intangible nature of archaeological sites, it is crucial to stay on the designated path.
8. In case of an emergency, follow the instructions of the responsible person in charge.