ITAN Adventure

Inca Trail 4-Day Trek

4 Days from US $ 757.00

Inca Trail 4-Day Trek

4 Days from US $ 757.00
Cusco, Ollantaytambo, Llactapata, Runkuracay, Sayacmarca, Phuyupatamarca, Wiñay Huayna, Sun Gate, Machu Picchu, Aguas Calientes
ITAN Adventure
Physical Level
Easy
ITAN Adventure
Trip Style
Hiking
ITAN Adventure
Max Altitude
3,500 meters
ITAN Adventure
Group Size
min 2 persons

Swap hotel beds for starry skies on this epic 4-day adventure! Hike ancient stone paths, conquer mountain passes, and unlock Machu Picchu at sunrise—all while porters handle the heavy lifting. Perfect for thrill-seekers who want all the Inca Trail magic without cutting corners.

Highlights

  • History underfoot: Touch 500-year-old Inca stones at Llactapata and Wiñay Wayna
  • Sunrise bragging rights: First peek at Machu Picchu through the Sun Gate
  • Landscape whiplash: Glaciers → cloud forests → orchid valleys → Andean peaks
  • Small squad vibes: Groups of 2-8 = make friends, not traffic jams
  • Guides who geek out on Inca history (in a cool way)

Itinerary

DAY 1:

Cusco → Km 82 → Wayllabamba Camp

4:30 AM: We’ll grab you from your hotel (coffee included, we promise). After breakfast in Ollantaytambo, we hit Km 82—the official trailhead.

The morning’s easy—flat paths winding past corn fields and chatty locals. By lunch, you’re gawking at Llactapata, a ruin so perfect it looks fake. Then comes the climb to Wayllabamba camp (9,514 ft). Unpack, sip coca tea, and crash early—Day 2’s a beast!

Stats:

  • Hiked: 7.45 miles (12 km)
  • Up/Down: +1,991 ft / -1,115 ft
  • Sleeping Altitude: Higher than Denver!

Wayllabamba → Dead Woman’s Pass → Pacaymayo Camp
6:00 AM: Pancakes + eggs fuel your BIG DAY. The trail gets steep fast—switchbacks through misty cloud forest.

At Dead Woman’s Pass (13,827 ft!), high-five your crew. You’re now higher than most ski resorts! Catch your breath (literally), then plunge down to Pacaymayo Camp (11,800 ft). Hot soup + early bed = survival mode.

Stats:

  • Hiked: 4.97 miles (8 km)
  • Up/Down: +4,179 ft / -2,060 ft (aka “Leg Day Extreme”)

Today’s all about time travel. Hike through Runcuracay Pass, explore the maze-like Sayacmarca ruins, then lunch with views at Phuyupatamarca (“Town Above the Clouds”).

The afternoon? A dreamy descent through orchid-filled forests to Wiñay Wayna (8,400 ft). Toast your porters at a tear-jerking farewell ceremony—they’ve carried your snacks, tents, and dignity!

Stats:

  • Hiked: 8.07 miles (13 km)
  • Up/Down: +2,073 ft / -4,980 ft (knees, meet downhill)

4:00 AM: Headlamps on! Hike the final stretch to the Sun Gate. As dawn breaks… BOOM—Machu Picchu appears like a golden postcard.

After 10,000 photos, descend for a guided tour of the citadel’s secret spots:
✓ Temple of the Sun (Inca astronomy HQ)
✓ Sacred Rock (energy vortex, say locals)
✓ Temple of the Condor (look for the stone wings!)

2:00 PM: Bus to Aguas Calientes for a victory lunch. Then, train + van ride back to Cusco—arrive by 7 PM, ready to brag to everyone at the hostel bar.

Stats:

  • Hiked: 4.35 miles (7 km)
  • Machu Picchu Elevation: 7,972 ft (finally, oxygen!)

Inclusions

  • All permits & tickets (trail + Machu Picchu)
  • 7kg porter service (they carry your duffle—you carry water)
  • Meals: 4 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 3 dinners (vegetarian? Vegan? No prob!)
  • Snazzy gear: Spacious tents, comfy pads, dining tent with chairs
  • Survival kit: Rain poncho, first aid, satellite phone
  • Day 4 lunch (budget 15−15−20 in Aguas Calientes)
  • Hot springs (5—doitforthe’gram)•∗∗Tips∗∗(5—doitforthegram)•∗∗Tips∗∗(50-$100 total for crew is typical)

Upgrades

Upgrade Your Adventure
Because why not splurge?

  • Huayna Picchu: $65 – Climb that iconic peak behind MP (10 AM slot)
  • Fancy Vistadome Train: $20 – Glass ceilings + free snacks on the ride back
  • Trekking Poles: $20 – Save your knees on those Inca stairs
  • Sleeping Bag: $20 – Rated for -4°F (aka “Andean winter mode”)
  • Air Mattress: $20 – Glamp your way through the mountains

What to Bring

Essentials:

  • Passport (valid for at least 6 months)
  • Headlamp
  • Student card (if applicable)
  • Day backpack (21-30 liters)
  • Water bottle or Camelbak (reusable)
  • Trekking shoes

Clothing and Footwear:

  • Short and long-sleeved t-shirts
  • Hiking pants
  • Underwear
  • Trekking socks
  • Fleece pullover
  • Warm jacket
  • Sun hat and wool hat
  • Waterproof gloves
  • Leggings
  • Sunglasses
  • Rain jacket, pants, and poncho

Toiletries:

  • Sunscreen
  • Toothbrush, toothpaste, deodorant
  • Biodegradable wet wipes
  • Lip balm
  • Toilet paper
  • Bug spray
  • Towel
  • Hand sanitizer
  • Dry shampoo
  • Chapstick
  • Comb/brush

First Aid Kit:

  • Blister pads
  • Altitude sickness medication
  • Anti-diarrhea tablets
  • Aspirin/Ibuprofen
  • Paracetamol
  • Rehydration sachets

Other Items:

  • Sleeping bag (-5°C to -15°C)
  • Waterproof backpack cover
  • Sleeping bag liner (optional)
  • Inflatable pillow (optional)
  • Earplugs (optional)
  • Trekking poles (rubber-tipped)
  • Collapsible water bottle
  • Plastic bags
  • Snacks
  • Electronics (Kindle, power bank, camera, binoculars, adapter, memory card)

About ISIC Card

Valid Student ID for Classic Inca Trail Hike and Machu Picchu

To qualify for the student discount on Inca Trail Permits, travelers must meet the following requirements:

  • Age Limit: Students must be 25 years old or younger at the time of entering the Inca Trail and Machu Picchu. Those over 25 years old cannot enter as a student.
  • ID Requirements: The student ID must include:
    • The name of the university
    • The student’s name and photo
    • A valid expiration date
  • ISIC CARD: This card type is no longer valid anymore

Invalid Student IDs for the Inca Trail Discount

Student IDs will not be accepted for the discount under the following conditions:

  • The traveler is older than 25
  • The ID is expired
  • The ID does not have an expiration date
  • ISIC cards are not valid for obtaining the student discount for Inca Trail permits.

This information is crucial for travelers seeking to benefit from discounted permits for the Inca Trail and Machu Picchu.

Why to Choose

Why choose “ITAN Adventure”?

“ITAN Adventure” is a 100% Peruvian-owned tour operator based in Cusco, with extensive experience in hiking, adventure tours, and customized travel packages. As a completely local company, we’re dedicated to providing travelers with authentic, high-quality experiences.

Our vision as a local company is to deliver personalized travel and hiking journeys, managed exclusively by experienced local professionals, with a strong focus on HIGH-QUALITY and PERSONALIZED SERVICE.

We are proud of our reputation as a travel agency that upholds RESPONSIBLE and SUSTAINABLE practices benefiting both the environment and local communities.

We treat our team like family and ensure they receive fair wages. We are incredibly proud of each member of our team! Their dedication makes it possible for us to provide the top-notch service that our many travelers appreciate.

At “ITAN Adventure,” we understand that our reputation and the feedback from our travelers are essential for gaining the trust of future adventurers. You can check out honest reviews from our guests on TripAdvisor, Facebook, and Google to see why we’re a reliable choice for creating your Peruvian adventure.

Small Group Travel

To ensure a more personalized experience at “ITAN Adventure,” we keep our group sizes to a maximum of 8 travelers. This approach allows us to offer a tailored experience, unlike companies that operate with larger groups.

About Our Tour Guides

Our guides are our pride. They’re highly knowledgeable and professional, fluent in English, and deeply passionate about Inca culture and history. Each guide is committed to ongoing personal and professional development, allowing them to share accurate insights and fascinating theories about Andean heritage. They are friendly, athletic, and well-educated, with backgrounds in Archaeology, Tourism, Botany, History, or Anthropology.

Our Inca Trail Porters

Hiking with “ITAN Adventure” ensures a fulfilling experience. Our porters are here to make your journey comfortable and memorable. They carry your equipment, prepare meals, set up camps, and attend to your needs so you can relax and enjoy the adventure. Along the way, you’ll connect with local people, explore stunning sites, and discover historic Inca villages.

We provide our porters with essential equipment at no cost: jackets, sun hats, warm hats, shirts, pants, hiking boots, comfortable bags, canteens, back support belts, sleeping bags, mattresses, and travel insurance. Our porters come from remote communities, and by hiring them, we help improve their economic conditions and support their children’s education. We treat our porters like family!

Our Team and Equipment

Our team—guides, cooks, porters, muleteers—and our equipment make “ITAN Adventure” stand out from the competition. During our hikes, we provide:

  • Our Tents: We use 4-season EUREKA Timberline tents, designed for four but used by two for extra comfort and storage. They include a small vestibule for boots and poles.
  • Foam Mats: Insulate you from the ground for added warmth.
  • Air Mattresses: Available to rent for $20 USD.
  • Kitchen and Dining Tents: Serve as a common area during meals, perfect for relaxing and socializing.
  • Tables and Chairs: Set up in the dining area, adapted for varying weather.
  • Travel Bags: Provided the night before the trek.
  • Additional Items: We offer pillows, rain covers for backpacks, survival shirts, and portable toilets during the trek.

Our Commitment to Social Responsibility

“ITAN Adventure” is committed to giving back to isolated communities. We support social projects and prioritize hiring local staff.

We are proud to support local communities not only by providing employment but also by offering assistance to their families. This holistic approach benefits our employees from the Peruvian Andes and their loved ones, strengthening our connection to the local heritage.

Pricing

4-DAY INCA TRAIL TO MACHU PICCHU: COSTS & BOOKING DETAILS

The Classic Inca Trail trek can be booked for any date of your choice, provided your group has at least two participants.


GROUP TREKKING RATES

Package DetailsPrice per Person (USD)
Standard Group Fee$757
Inclusions:Personal porter included
Group Discount:$30 off per person (groups of 5+ travelers)

PRIVATE TREKKING RATES

Group SizePrice per Person (USD)
2–3 travelers$997
4–6 travelers$897
7–8 travelers$777

AGE-BASED DISCOUNTS

EligibilityDiscountRequired Documents
Ages 18–25 (Students)$30 USDValid student ID copy showing university name, student photo, full name, and expiration date. Submit at booking.
Under 18 years$30 USDPassport copy submitted during reservation.
Under 11 years$40 USDPassport copy submitted during reservation.

OPTIONAL ADD-ONS

Huayna Picchu Mountain Hike

  • Self-guided ascent after the Machu Picchu tour (no guide included).
  • Guided hike available upon prior request (additional cost applies).

INCLUSIVE BENEFITS WITH ITAN ADVENTURE

  • Luggage Support Duffel bag provided at briefing for 3–4 days of essentials.
  • Safe Hydration Boiled drinking water supplied throughout the trek.
  • Intimate Groups Average group size: 4–6 travelers (max 8).
  • Expert Guidance Fluent English-speaking guide for cultural and historical insights.
  • Packing Convenience Duffel bag for personal items included.

Key Notes:

  • Flexible Scheduling: Secure your preferred date by booking early.
  • Private Trek Perks: Tailored itineraries and exclusive group privacy.
  • Discount Compliance: Submit required documents promptly to validate discounts.

Let me know if you need further refinements! 😊

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Faqs

What Time Will We Arrive To Machu Picchu On Day 4?

Groups reach the Sun Gate around 7:00 am and Machu Picchu around 8:00 am.

Will Water Be Provided In Your Inca Trail Tours?

You’ll need to buy 2 liters of water for the first day. We’ll provide boiled water three times a day from the second day onwards.

What Kind Of Reusable Water Bottles Should We Bring On The Hike?

Single-use plastic bottles are prohibited. Bring reusable water bottles to refill with our provided water.

Is There An Age Limit For The Inca Trail Hike?

There’s no age limit, but we recommend a minimum age of 8 due to steep sections.

Do I Need Any Vaccine To Hike Inca Trail?

No specific vaccines are required. Yellow fever vaccination is not necessary.

How Many Kilos Are We Allowed To Carry On The Inca Trail Treks?

There’s no weight limit for hikers, but porters should carry no more than 20 kilograms.

How Can I Prepare For The Altitude And Avoid Altitude Sickness?

Arrive in Cusco at least two days prior to the trek for acclimatization. Explore the city, visit museums and markets, hike to Cristo Blanco, or take a Sacred Valley tour. Eat light foods on the first day.

Is There Any Location Where I Can Plug And Charge My Electronic Devices On The Inca Trail Hike Tours?

No electricity is available at campsites. Bring portable power banks.

What Is The Temperature Rating Of ITAN Adventure Sleeping Bags?

Our rented mummy-style sleeping bags are rated to -15°C / 5°F (Mountain Hard Wear brand).

Which Campsites Do You Usually Book For Your Groups Of Machu Picchu Hiking Tours?

We aim to book campsites 1 or 2, meaning you’ll stay at Wiñaywayna Campsite (2 hours from Machu Picchu). We avoid options 3 and 4 due to their distance from Machu Picchu.

After Finishing The Hike, Can I Visit Machu Picchu Following Circuit 2?

Inca Trail hikers follow Circuit 3. Visiting Circuit 2 requires an additional $45 ticket for a second Machu Picchu visit.

Is It Worth Buying An Extra Machu Picchu Ticket?

Opinions vary. Some find it worthwhile, others are too tired. We suggest it may not be necessary after seeing numerous Inca sites along the trail.

Why On Day 4 Does Everybody Wake Up At 3:30 Am?

This early wake-up is necessary for porters to catch the only available train at 5:45 am from Km 107.

Can I See The Sunrise In Machu Picchu?

You’ll likely miss the sunrise as you’ll arrive at the Sun Gate after it has occurred.

Do I Need Walking Sticks Even Though I’m Young, In Good Shape, And Used To Hiking A Lot?

Walking sticks are recommended for those with knee problems or less hiking experience. Experienced hikers might not need them.

If I Get Sick One Day Before My Departure And Cancel My Trip, Can I Use My 4-Day Permit To Hike The Inca Trail 2 Days And Catch Up With My Group?

No. You’ll need to purchase a separate 2-day Inca Trail permit. You also won’t be able to catch up with the group.

If I Get Sick One Day Before My Departure And Cancel My Trip, Can I Use My 4-Day Permit To Visit Machu Picchu And Catch Up With My Group?

Yes, we can help arrange a Machu Picchu tour (1 or 2 days). You’ll need to purchase separate train, transport, and bus tickets. Your existing Machu Picchu ticket and other inclusions from the 4-day package can still be used.

Can We Rent Sleeping Bags And Walking Sticks Last Minute – Or Does Everything Need To Be Rented Up-Front When Booking?

You can rent these at our office one day before the trek.

We Are 5 People, However 3 Of Us Want To Hike The Inca Trail Whilst The Other 2 Would Like To Take The Train – Can We Visit Machu Picchu Together?

We’ll try to accommodate this. Those hiking the Inca Trail follow Circuit 3, while train travelers follow Circuit 2. We can purchase Circuit 2 tickets for the hikers for an additional $45 so you can all visit together.

What Is The Shower Situation On Inca Trail?

Campsites offer cold showers. Some campsites offer hot showers for a small fee. Showering is generally recommended only on the last night, when the campsite is at a lower altitude.

What is the Toilet Situation On The Inca Trail 4 Days?

We provide portable toilets at campsites. Public toilets are available along the trail. Bring coins for private toilets on the first day.

Can I Book My Inca Trail 4 Day In A Last Minute?

Last-minute bookings

Travel Guide

IMPORTANT INFORMATION ABOUT OUR INCA TRAIL 4 DAYS

Important:

  • The Peruvian Ministry of Culture and SERNANP regulate all aspects of the Inca Trail and Machu Picchu, including permits and campsites.
  • To access the Classic Inca Trail, you need a permit matching your full name, passport number, nationality, and age, issued by the Ministry of Culture.
  • A maximum of 500 people, including support staff, are allowed on the 4-day Classic Inca Trail daily. Book well in advance, ideally a year prior.
  • Only licensed companies like ITAN Adventure can secure permits, which are non-transferable. If you can’t hike on your chosen date, you’ll need a new permit (subject to availability).
  • If permits are sold out, consider alternative treks like Salkantay, Inca Quarry, or Lares. We can help you find the perfect option.

Things To Know About Our Trek To Machu Picchu:

  • For peak season (May-August), book permits 8 months in advance.
  • Bottled water is available at certain points on days 1 and 2, then not until Machu Picchu.
  • This trek is not suitable for travelers with back problems.
  • Daily departures with 2 or more people.
  • No departures in February due to trail maintenance.
  • Wheelchair access is not available.

DON’T FORGET THE ESSENTIALS:

  • Original passport, insurance card, and personal medications.

Pro Tips:

  • Break in your trekking shoes before the hike.
  • Spend at least 2 days in Cusco for altitude acclimatization.
  • Trim your toenails to prevent discomfort.
  • Keep clothes warm by placing them inside your sleeping bag.
  • Pack rain gear, even in the dry season.
  • Bring comfortable shoes for after the hike.
  • Avoid salads if participating in other tours (e.g., Rainbow Mountain) before the Inca Trail.

Student Price For Our Inca Trail Trek To Machu Picchu:

  • Students (18-25 years old) with a valid student card: $730 USD.
  • Minors (3-17 years old): $730 USD.

Student Discount Requirements:

  • Age: Under 25. Those 18+ need a valid student ID card.
  • Card Type: Physical plastic card with details printed directly on it. No stickers or university certifications.
  • ISIC Card: Not accepted for discounts in Peru.
  • Required Information: University name, student information, photo, and expiration date (valid for at least one year from booking).

Important Note:

  • You must have a valid student card that meets Peruvian government requirements to receive the discount. No exceptions will be made at the checkpoint.

Updating Passport Numbers:

  • If renewing your passport, email us a copy of your old passport or a government-issued ID with the same name for booking. Send a copy of your new passport ASAP to update your permit.

Duffle Bag:

  • You’ll receive a duffel bag at our office during the pre-departure briefing. Porters will carry it; you’ll have access at campsites.
  • Pack clothes and personal items not needed during the day. Carry essentials (water, snacks, first aid, rain gear) in your daypack.
  • Duffel bag weight limit: 7kg (4kg personal belongings, 3kg for sleeping bag and pad).
  • Return the duffel bag to your hotel reception at the end of the trek.

Strikes:

  • Strikes and roadblocks can occur in Peru. We’ll do our best to minimize disruptions to your trek.
  • If a strike occurs on the first day, we’ll take you to the trailhead the night before.
  • If a strike happens on the last day, we’ll arrange transportation from Hidroelectrica.

Returning From Machu Picchu To Cusco:

  • We organize all transportation.
  • Take the bus from Machu Picchu to Aguas Calientes.
  • Take the train from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo or Poroy (train tickets provided by your guide).
  • Our transfer will meet you at the train station and take you to your hotel in Cusco.

Inca Trail Weather:

  • Weather is unpredictable. Dry season (April-October) offers a higher chance of clear skies. Rainy season is November-March.
  • Pack rain gear regardless of the season.
  • Expect varying microclimates. Dress in layers.

Travel Insurance For Inca Trail:

  • We recommend travel insurance to cover potential losses from last-minute cancellations or medical emergencies.

Physical Requirements:

  • This is a challenging trek. Be in good physical condition.

Inca Trail Solo Traveller:

  • Solo travelers will share a tent with someone of the same sex. Couples will have their own tent.

Pre-Departure Briefing:

  • Attend the briefing at our Cusco office at 6:00 p.m. the day before the trek.
  • You’ll meet your guide and receive important information.
  • Our office is located at Marquez Street 250, Second Floor, Office 03, Cusco.

Tipping In Our Guided Inca Trail Tour:

  • Tipping is customary but not mandatory.
  • Tip porters and chefs on the third day.
  • Tip the guide after the Machu Picchu tour.
  • Soles are preferred for porters and chefs. Guides accept Soles or US dollars.

Group Service:

  • Groups consist of diverse individuals with varying hiking abilities.
  • Hike at your own pace. The guide will ensure everyone has a positive experience.

Inca Trail Backpack Size:

  • No size limit on the trail, but only small backpacks are allowed in Machu Picchu.
  • We recommend a 25-liter backpack. You can store larger backpacks in lockers outside Machu Picchu.

Inca Trail Shoes:

  • Wear sturdy trekking shoes with good grip for the varied terrain.
  • We recommend trekking boots with ankle support.

How Much To Tip Inca Trail Guide:

  • A suggested tip is $100 (or 300 soles) for the guide. Adjust based on your budget, group size, and satisfaction.

Inca Trail Bugs:

  • Expect insects year-round, with increased mosquitoes during August-November. Bring insect repellent.

Inca Trail Cell Service:

  • Limited cell service is available at certain points, depending on your carrier.

Inca Trail Age Limit:

  • No official age limit, but we recommend a minimum age of 8. Older adults should consult a doctor.

Inca Trail Stairs Of Death:

  • The trail includes steep sections, including the “Stairs of Death” and “Monkey Stairs.” These are safe with careful hiking.

Inca Trail Llamas:

  • You might encounter llamas along the trail, particularly on days 2, 3, and 4.

Inca Trail Sun Gate:

  • Only Inca Trail hikers can enter through the Sun Gate. Enjoy breathtaking views of Machu Picchu.

Typical Meals On The Inca Trail To Machu Picchu:

  • We offer delicious meals with fresh local ingredients. Vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options are available upon request.
  • Breakfast: Porridge, eggs, pancakes, bread, fruit, and hot beverages.
  • Lunch & Dinner: Soup, main course (chicken, beef, or vegetarian options), and dessert.
  • Snacks: Candies, cookies, juice, crackers, and fruit.

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