INFORMACIÓN GENERAL
Duración: 5 days | 4 nights.
Punto de partida: Cuzco
Punto de Retorno: Cuzco
Tamaño del Grupo: Small groups (Minimum required 2, Average 8, Maximum 16 personas).
Estilo de viaje: Hiking, Trekking, it is also an Archaeological and Cultural journey.
Valor de la ruta: The Inca Trail is, by far, the most famous route in South America.
Nivel de dificultad: Moderate to hard.
Altura mínima: 2,000 masl (6,562 feet, town of Aguas Calientes).
Altura Máxima: 4,200 masl (13,776 feet, Warmy Wañuska Pass).
Distancia a recorrer: 45 km. (28 millas).
Fechas de Salida: Daily departures throughout the year (except February, when it is closed due to the rainy season).
Alojamiento: 3 nights camping (very comfortable and secure tents).
Information
INTRODUCTION
This great excursion starts with pick-up from your hotel, which may be located in the city of Cusco or the Sacred Valley of the Incas. From there, we will head to a private vehicle to the area known as Piskacuscho or km. 82 (Trail Head), where our travelers will enjoy beautiful landscapes and all the Inca constructions along the 45 km route.
It is truly a unique experience, sharing unforgettable moments in direct contact with nature, reaching the famous Inca city of Machu Picchu, where we will admire its magic and charm. We will observe its great ancient constructions surrounded by a rich history that makes it recognized as one of the Wonders of the World.
All this makes Machu Picchu the main tourist destination of Peru, attracting around 2 million visitors per year, all of whom are amazed by its majesty. Allow us to be your host, guide you to this Wonder of the World, and make you one of those privileged visitors.
RECOMMENDATIONS
- Book the Inca Trail Excursion as soon as possible because tickets sell out quickly.
- Arrive at least 1 day before the excursion to acclimatize. Remember that Cusco city is located 3,400 meters above sea level.
- Review the personal items you will take on the hike.
- Visit us at our main office in the historic center of Cusco, 1 day before the trek at 7:00 pm, for an informative briefing led by your guide. This will help you feel more prepared, safe, and ready for the trek.
- Leave any luggage you will not take on the excursion in our office’s free luggage deposit.
- Don’t forget to bring your valid personal documents, as they will be required by Peruvian authorities at the Inca Trail and Machu Picchu checkpoints.
- If you have any questions or need more information about the tour, don’t hesitate to contact us at: Cell: +51 984 525 006 / WhatsApp: +51 984 683 047 or write to: info@incredibleperutours.com.
IS THIS ROUTE FOR ME?
Definitely YES, the Inca Trail is something everyone should do at least once in their life, whether you are a man or woman, young or old, in good or poor physical condition… The Inca Trail is simply for EVERYONE…
TOUR SCHEDULE
DAY 1:
- 6:00 am: Hotel pick-up.
- 6:30 am: Transportation from Cusco city to km. 82 (Trailhead).
- 9:30 am: Arrival at km. 82.
- 10:30 am: Begin the hike.
- 1:00 pm: Lunch in Miskay.
- 2:00 pm: Hike to Wayllabamba.
- 5:00 pm: Arrival at Wayllabamba Campground.
- 5:30 pm: Tea time and rest.
- 7:30 pm: Dinner.
- 9:00 pm: Overnight in tents.
DAY 2:
- 6:00 am: Breakfast.
- 7:00 am: Hike to the highest point of the route.
- 11:30 am: Arrival at Warmiwañusca – Highest point of the route (Dead Woman’s Pass – 13,776 feet / 4,200 meters).
- 12:00 pm: Hike to Pacaymayo.
- 1:50 pm: Arrival at Pacaymayo Campground.
- 2:00 pm: Lunch and rest.
- 5:00 pm: Tea time and rest.
- 7:00 pm: Dinner.
- 9:00 pm: Overnight in tents.
DAY 3:
- 6:00 am: Breakfast.
- 7:00 am: Hike to Runcuraqay.
- 7:40 am: Arrival and tour of the Runcuraqay archaeological site.
- 8:00 am: Hike to Runquraqay Pass (13,123 feet / 4,000 meters).
- 9:00 am: Arrival at Runquraqay Pass and rest.
- 9:30 am: Descent to Sayacmarca.
- 10:30 am: Arrival and tour of Sayacmarca archaeological site.
- 12:00 pm: Hike to Chaquicocha.
- 12:30 pm: Arrival at Chaquicocha area.
- 12:45 pm: Lunch and rest.
- 1:30 pm: Hike to Phuyupatamarca.
- 2:30 pm: Arrival and tour of Phuyupatamarca archaeological site.
- 3:30 pm: Hike to Wiñay Wayna.
- 5:30 pm: Arrival at Wiñay Wayna Campground (8,530 feet / 2,600 meters).
- 5:45 pm: Tea time and rest.
- 7:00 pm: Dinner.
- 9:00 pm: Overnight in tents.
DAY 4:
- 4:00 am: Breakfast or lunchbox to go.
- 5:00 am: Hike to Inti Punku (Sun Gate).
- 6:30 am: Arrival at Inti Punku with panoramic views of Machu Picchu.
- 7:00 am: Hike to Machu Picchu Inca Citadel.
- 7:40 am: Arrival at Machu Picchu.
- 8:00 am: Guided tour of Machu Picchu (approx. 2 hours).
- 10:00 am: Free time to explore Machu Picchu on your own.
- 1:00 pm: Bus descent to Aguas Calientes.
- 1:30 pm: Arrival in Aguas Calientes.
- 2:00 pm: Lunch in a restaurant in Aguas Calientes.
- 3:30 pm: Free time to explore Aguas Calientes.
- 6:20 pm: Train to Ollantaytambo.
- 8:00 pm: Arrival at Ollantaytambo Station.
- 8:20 pm: Return transportation from Ollantaytambo to Cusco.
- 10:00 pm: Arrival in Cusco and transfer to your hotel.
Note: This schedule is approximate and may vary based on each hiker’s physical condition and train class availability.
Itinerary
Day 1: Cusco – Km 82 – Wayllabamba
Highlights: Enjoy stunning Peruvian Andes landscapes and arrive at the first campsite through a peaceful hike.
The trek starts in Cusco, with a bus pick-up at 5:30 AM for a 3.5-hour drive through the Sacred Valley. You’ll pass by Ollantaytambo and arrive at Piscacucho (Km 82), the official start of the Inca Trail. After registration, you’ll cross a bridge over the Urubamba River and begin the hike, with an easy 2-hour walk along the river to Miskay for lunch. Afterward, visit the Patallacta archaeological site, then hike to Wayllabamba, the first campsite, arriving around 5 PM. After a tea time, enjoy a hot dinner and rest.
Walking time: 5 hours
Distance: 10 km
Difficulty: Moderate
Altitude: 2,700 m – 3,000 m
Accommodation: Camping
Day 2: Wayllabamba – Warmiwañusca – Pacaymayo
Highlights: Reach the highest point of the trail, Warmiwañusca (Dead Woman’s Pass) at 4,200 meters.
After a morning tea, start the challenging climb to the highest point, Warmiwañusca, taking about 4 hours. Enjoy breathtaking views of the Andes and descend for 2 hours to Pacaymayo for lunch and rest. In the afternoon, relax with tea and snacks. Dinner and overnight camping follow.
Walking time: 7 hours
Distance: 16 km
Difficulty: Hard
Altitude: 3,000 m – 4,200 m – 3,600 m
Accommodation: Camping
Day 3: Pacaymayo – Sayacmarca – Phuyupatamarca – Wiñay Wayna
Highlights: Explore Inca sites like Sayacmarca and Phuyupatamarca.
After breakfast, hike for 2 hours to Runkuracay and visit the Inca site. Continue to Sayacmarca, then walk to Chaquicocha for lunch. The hike continues to Phuyupatamarca, a site above the clouds, and finally to Wiñay Wayna, the last camp near Machu Picchu. Enjoy a final dinner with the team and prepare for the big day ahead.
Walking time: 7 hours
Distance: 14 km
Difficulty: Moderate
Altitude: 3,600 m – 4,000 m – 2,680 m
Accommodation: Camping
Day 4: Wiñay Wayna – Inti Punku – Machu Picchu – Ollantaytambo – Cusco
Highlights: Reach Machu Picchu early and enjoy the sunrise.
The final day begins early, hiking from Wiñay Wayna to Inti Punku (Sun Gate), with a fantastic view of Machu Picchu. Continue down to the site and enjoy a guided tour, learning about the Inca city. If you have pre-booked tickets, you can also hike Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain. After exploring, return to Ollantaytambo and take the bus back to Cusco.
Walking time: 2 hours to Inti Punku
Distance: 4 km
Difficulty: Easy
Altitude: 2,680 m – 2,000 m
Accommodation: None
Included Services
THIS TOUR INCLUDES:
- Meeting and preparatory talk with the guide 1 or 2 days before the trek at our Cusco office.
- Safe luggage storage for your belongings at our Cusco office during the trek.
- Hotel pick-up on the day of the excursion.
- Transportation from Cusco to km. 82 (Start of the Trek) in a tourist vehicle.
- Bilingual Professional Guide (Spanish and English).
- A second Professional Guide (For groups of 9 or more hikers).
- Chef and Assistant Chef to prepare all meals.
- Entrance tickets to the Inca Trail and Machu Picchu Citadel.
- Full meals during the trek (3 breakfasts, 4 lunches, 3 snacks, and 3 dinners).
- We can prepare vegetarian meals or special diets according to your needs at no extra cost.
- Boiled water to refill your bottle every morning starting on day 2.
- Porter team to carry all camping equipment such as tents, tables, chairs, food, cooking equipment, and more.
- Camping equipment required for the trek, including:
- High-quality Mountain Tents designed for 4 people, but shared by only 2 people for extra comfort and space for backpacks.
- Thermarest inflatable mattresses, provided at the beginning of the trek.
- Dining area with camp tables and portable chairs + gas lamps for the night.
- Cooking tent with complete equipment for meal preparation.
- First aid kit and emergency oxygen tank.
- 2-hour guided tour of Machu Picchu.
- Bus ticket from Machu Picchu to Aguas Calientes.
- Train ticket in Expedition service on day 4 from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo.
- Transport from Ollantaytambo Train Station to your hotel in Cusco.
OPTIONAL SERVICES
If desired, up to one day before the trek, you can visit our Main Office in Cusco’s Historic Center and request the following additional services for an extra cost:
- Sleeping bag (can be rented at our travel office + $5.00 USD per day).
- Hiking poles (can be rented at our Main Office + $5.00 USD per day).
- Huayna Picchu Mountain Entrance Ticket (request when booking, subject to availability, only 400 tickets per day + $80.00).
- Machu Picchu Mountain Entrance Ticket (request when booking, subject to availability, only 400 tickets per day + $80.00).
- If you wish to stay an extra day in Aguas Calientes, we will provide a return train ticket for the 5th day at no cost. Additionally, we can book a hotel in Aguas Calientes for USD $35 per person at Killa Inn (www.grupokillamachupicchu.com/360/killa.html) or a similar hotel. Rooms are available as single, double, or triple, as per your requirements. All hotels are clean, safe, with breakfast included, private bathrooms with hot water, Wi-Fi, cable TV, and free luggage storage.
NOT INCLUDED
- Personal items (refer to the full list in the section: WHAT TO BRING).
- Travel insurance.
- Optional tips for your service team (only if you wish, at the end of the Inca Trail, you can tip the Guide, Chef, and Porters).
PLEASE NOTE
- Additional tickets for Huayna Picchu and Machu Picchu tend to sell out quickly, as only 400 tickets are available for each hike per day. We recommend booking them as soon as possible.
- After booking this tour, we will send you a Confirmation email, including your Travel Coupon… Please print it!
- If you have any questions or concerns about the services included in this tour, please contact us at: Cell: +51 984525006 / WhatsApp: +51 984683047 or email: info@incredibleperutours.com
What should you bring
LIST OF PERSONAL ITEMS TO BRING
Many people assume that the climate in South America is warm, but in higher-altitude areas like the Peruvian Andes, the temperature can be very cold, especially at night. Here is a complete list of what you should bring to prepare your backpack. If you don’t have some items, you can purchase them in advance, or if you can’t, don’t worry, there are many camping equipment stores in Cusco where you can rent or buy what you need.
Please review the following list of things to bring for the 4-day/3-night Inca Trail trek and remember that everything is crucial for the success of your hike.
Documents
- Original passport.
- Valid student ID card (if you’re a student).
- Travel insurance (bring a few copies).
- Travel coupon issued by us.
Essentials
- Backpack.
- Sleeping bag.
- Water bottle.
- Some snacks like cookies, candies, chocolates, cereals.
- Extra money for souvenirs during the excursion.
Clothing and Shoes
- Warm clothing for the nights: thermal jacket, gloves, scarf, wool socks, wool hat.
- Waterproof clothing: rain jacket and/or poncho.
- Cotton or synthetic clothing: mountain pants, shorts, socks, t-shirts, underwear.
- Swimsuit (if you wish to visit the Hot Springs in Aguas Calientes).
- Hat to protect from the sun.
- Mountain boots and sandals.
Pharmaceuticals
- Personal medications, band-aids, and anti-inflammatory pills.
- Insect repellent.
- Sunscreen.
- Skin and lip balm.
Personal Hygiene Items
- Small towel.
- Toothpaste and toothbrush.
- Bar soap.
- Shampoo and conditioner.
- Brush or comb.
- Wet wipes.
- Spray deodorant.
- Toilet paper.
Other Items
- Flashlight (headlamps recommended).
- Sunglasses.
- Camera with extra batteries and memory cards.
- Hiking poles with rubber tips (optional).
- Pocket knife.
- Some plastic bags.
- A good sense of humor. It is also recommended to acclimate in Cusco for at least one day before your trek and ensure you are in good general health.
Frequent questions
Frequently Asked Questions
Here you will find the most common questions from our clients. Before asking anything, we invite you to carefully read these questions and answers, as well as all the links related to this tour. This will help clarify things in a simple, quick, and practical way.
1. Is water included in the tour?
Yes, we know that hydration during the hike is very important, so you don’t have to worry about it. Just bring your own water for the first day. After that, our staff will provide water starting on the 2nd day. It is taken from the tap at each campsite, then boiled and cooled. You will be able to refill your bottle at breakfast, lunch, and dinner. So don’t worry, the water will always be clean and safe to drink.
2. What meals will I have during the tour?
We understand the curiosity about the quality of the food during the hike. For your peace of mind, we include all meals and snacks throughout the entire hike, even the last lunch (after your tour of Machu Picchu). For this final lunch, you’ll have the option to eat at a good restaurant in the town of Aguas Calientes. All the testimonials and reviews from our clients confirm that our meals are excellent.
All food is prepared with fresh ingredients, which are bought at the local market in the city of Cusco the day before the trip. Everything is transported by the porters and then prepared by our chef. We don’t use any canned or rehydrated food. Everything is fresh, healthy, and delicious!
Each chef is professionally trained to prepare the best breakfasts, lunches, dinners, and snacks. Meals are served daily, starting in the morning with an excellent breakfast. Then, we’ll give you some snacks to enjoy on the trail, at noon you’ll have a nice lunch, when you reach camp you’ll enjoy tea time, and finally, in the evening, a delicious dinner will be served. This will definitely exceed all your expectations regarding food on the Inca Trail.
On the last day, in the afternoon, after visiting Machu Picchu, you’ll have a delicious lunch served at a good restaurant in the town of Aguas Calientes, where you can choose whatever you like. You can select from: Corn soup, Mushroom cream soup, Asparagus cream soup, Pasta, Pizza, Fried trout, Meats, Chicken, Boiled vegetables, Salads, Tortillas, etc.
Here are some examples of what our chefs can prepare and serve during meals:
Breakfast: Scrambled eggs, bread, pancakes, tortillas, cereals, fruit salad, toast, orange juice, milk, tea, coffee, hot chocolate, butter, jam.
Snacks for the Hike: Fruits, cookies, cereals, chocolate, sweets.
Lunch: Corn soup, Mushroom cream soup, Asparagus cream soup, Rice with chicken, sausages, Fried trout, ceviche, meat, beans, fried rice, french fries, boiled vegetables, salads, tortillas, etc.
Tea time: Popcorn, fried wontons, tea, coffee.
Dinners: Stuffed chicken, vegetable tortillas, pizza, spaghetti, pork chops, fried vegetables, salads.
If you have special dietary needs, no problem! We can accommodate vegetarians, vegans, celiacs, and any type of dietary option at no extra cost, so you’ll always be well-fed throughout the trip.
3. How do I book this hike?
Booking this tour with us will be very safe, easy, and practical, plus it offers Payment Flexibility, such as paying for the excursion up to 1 day before the tour and in 2 installments:
The first installment can be paid online from the comfort of your home using any credit or debit card from any bank, through our secure and reliable money transfer system. The prepayment will be made via a deposit of USD $200 per person + 4% Visa commission. (Click on the “Book” link or request your payment link via WhatsApp: +51 984-525 006)
The second installment is due upon arrival in Cusco, to be paid in person at our main office in the Historic Center up to 1 day before the tour.
⇒ To book your 4-Day / 3-Night Inca Trail, just follow these 3 simple steps:
- Fill out the booking form: Find it in the “Book” link.
- Pay the first installment (prepayment): We accept all cards. You can use any credit or debit card from any bank and any company: VISA, MASTERCARD, AMERICAN EXPRESS, DINERS CLUB, DISCOVER, JCB, UNION PAY, etc.
- Print your Travel Voucher: We will send it to you immediately after you make the prepayment.
⇒ OTHER PAYMENT METHODS: If you prefer to make the prepayment via other methods, such as Western Union, Bank Deposit, or Bank Transfer, let us know so we can send you all the information required to complete the prepayment.
4. Are there discounts for children and students?
Yes, we offer discounts and special rates for babies, children, and students on this tour.
Babies under 2 years old traveling with their parents travel for free.
Children between 3 and 8 years old get a USD $100.00 discount, by sending a scanned copy of their passport at the time of booking.
Students also get a USD $40.00 discount in the following cases:
School and University Students: For young people aged 9 to 17, by sending a scanned copy of their passport when booking.
University Students: For young people up to 25 years old, sending a scanned copy of their valid student ID when booking. We accept student IDs from universities worldwide (students 26 years and older are considered adults).
5. Why do tickets sell out so quickly?
Unfortunately, many travelers are unaware of the 500 daily ticket limit for this route. Additionally, most hikers don’t realize this limit applies not only to travelers but also to all service personnel required by authorized agencies, such as guides, cooks, and porters.
This service personnel is crucial for the hike, as they provide all necessary supplies, including food, accommodation, and tents. The guide will keep you safe and informed during the hike.
Thus, due to this regulation, the tickets required for a group of travelers must always be doubled (Travelers + Agency Service Personnel).
Now that you understand the reason for the high demand, it’s clear that booking your permits as early as possible is essential. You will need an authorized tourism agency, like ours, Incredible Peru Tours – IPT, to operate the Inca Trail.
6. How much should I tip my tour guide, cook, and porters?
Tipping is not mandatory, and there is no exact amount. However, if you wish, you can tip the tour guides, cooks, and porters at the end of the hike. This is entirely voluntary and will be very much appreciated by the service staff.
7. What will the weather be like on the Inca Trail and Machu Picchu?
The weather is unpredictable along the Inca Trail, and it’s impossible to say exactly what type of weather you will encounter during the hike. Regardless of the month you travel, be sure to have waterproof clothing, such as a jacket or a good rain poncho, at hand.
At night, the temperature tends to drop, especially on the second night, as the campsite is located over 3,600 meters above sea level.
During the day, many people are surprised to learn that on the 3rd and 4th days, the Inca Trail has a subtropical climate. This area is part of the High Forest, also known as the Cloud Forest or Mountain Forest, filled with lush vegetation, orchids, ferns, bromeliads, and some mosquitoes.
Machu Picchu sits at 2,400 meters above sea level, a much lower altitude (warmer and more humid) than Cusco and many other places. The temperature can reach 25°C. It is surrounded by high mountain peaks, often shrouded in mist. This may be one reason the Spanish never discovered it.
During the dry season (April to November), the mornings are often cloudy and cold. As the morning progresses, the clouds clear, and the sun comes out, so it can get quite hot. Sunscreen, insect repellent, and a good hat are essential. However, bear in mind that it may rain in June and be sunny in December.
During the rainy season (mid-November to mid-April), rainfall is frequent, but don’t be surprised if there are sunny days. February is the wettest month, and the Inca Trail is closed during that month.
Regardless of the season, it’s highly recommended to bring a rain poncho. Also, when it rains, the trail’s ancient stones become slippery, so it’s crucial to wear shoes with good grip and perhaps a walking stick with a rubber tip.
8. What if I get sick from altitude sickness?
Don’t worry! All our guides are trained in handling altitude sickness. Our guides carry an oxygen tank and a First Aid Kit, ensuring you are well evaluated and treated, allowing you to continue the hike. Our staff is prepared for any emergency. If after treatment you still feel unwell and can’t continue, the guide will decide whether to proceed or return. Your safety and health are our priority.
If you need to return, don’t worry, you can still meet your group in Aguas Calientes and catch the early bus to Machu Picchu the next day, rejoining your group at the Machu Picchu entrance. There may be some additional costs.
9. If I have already paid my first installment and decide to cancel, will I get a refund?
Unfortunately, we cannot offer any refunds or date changes for tours paid in installments. All prepayments of USD $200.00 are non-refundable and non-transferable, as this money is immediately invested in necessary bookings and permits for the tour, including purchasing tickets for the Inca Trail and Machu Picchu. These arrangements are made with the Peruvian Ministry of Culture (the government agency responsible for the Inca Trail and Machu Picchu).
We understand that unexpected situations arise, but we cannot make exceptions. You can read more about our Cancellation and Change Policies.
10. What is the difference between Machu Picchu Archaeological site and Machu Picchu Mountain?
Our tour includes the ticket to the Machu Picchu Archaeological Site, which means a guided tour of about 2 hours through the most interesting parts of Machu Picchu led by our professional guide.
Machu Picchu Mountain is a large mountain located next to the Machu Picchu site (2,400 m.s.l.). This mountain has an ancient Inca trail to the summit, which is 3,000 meters above sea level. You can hike to the top on your own in about 3 hours. From the top, you will have a breathtaking 360° panoramic view of the area.
This is an optional route; you can do it after visiting Machu Picchu on the second day, as visitors can only enter in the morning. We will provide you with an additional ticket for this mountain.
The price for the Machu Picchu Mountain ticket is $60, and we recommend booking it when you reserve your Inca Trail, as tickets are very limited (only 400 people per day can hike it).
11. What is the difference between Huayna Picchu mountain and Machu Picchu mountain?
- Huayna Picchu Mountain: The hike to the summit takes approximately 45 minutes along narrow and steep Inca stairs. Once at the top, you can see the Machu Picchu citadel and its surroundings. This is the famous peak featured in iconic photos of Machu Picchu. It is a popular destination and often requires booking months in advance. Only a limited number of people can hike this mountain each day. During this hike, you will have stunning views of Machu Picchu ruins. The Ministry of Culture in Cusco limits access to this mountain.
- Machu Picchu Mountain: The hike to the summit takes approximately 1.5 hours. At the top, you get an even higher viewpoint with incredible views of Machu Picchu and its surroundings. This is a great alternative to Huayna Picchu. It’s ideal for those who don’t want the hassle of securing a ticket or couldn’t get one. Technically, Machu Picchu Mountain is also limited to 400 tickets per day, but it rarely sells out. We can book this when purchasing your tickets. The hike is easier and longer, but just as challenging in its own way.
12. Do I need to bring extra money on my tour?
Yes, if you wish to buy snacks like cookies, dried fruits, chocolates, or additional drinks like sodas, beer, or energy drinks, as there are small shops along the route during the first 2 days.
You also have the option to take a hot shower on the first day for 10 soles (depending on the availability of showers at your campsite). If you want to take the train back from Aguas Calientes, you will need to purchase tickets at a local station.
13. Will I have a chance to shower during the trek? Will there be bathroom facilities?
Yes, you will be able to shower at the Campsites:
- 1st Campsite (Wayllabamba) – Hot water showers are available. These are provided in the facilities of a local family, who charge 10 Peruvian soles per person.
- 2nd Campsite (Pacaymayo) – Very cold showers. We do not recommend showering here as it can be dangerous; the place generally has cold weather and is at a high elevation (3,600 meters above sea level).
- 3rd Campsite (Wiñay Wayna) – Cold water showers. Despite this, some tourists who reach this point choose to take a shower, especially when the day is hot and sunny.
Regarding Bathroom Facilities, there will be access to them. At the start of the trek, at the places where you will have lunch, upon arrival at Machu Picchu, and at the campsite, you will find these facilities.
14. What time will we return to Cusco?
On the last day, after visiting Machu Picchu, we will take a 25-minute bus ride to the town of Aguas Calientes. Afterward, you will have lunch at a local restaurant, then take a 1 hour and 45-minute train ride to the Ollantaytambo Train Station. There, a tourist bus will be waiting for you to take you back to Cusco, a 2-hour journey. We have two train schedules: from 4:20 PM to 8:00 PM or 6:20 PM (schedule to be confirmed depending on Peru Rail availability).
15. If I have more questions, can I contact Incredible Peru Tours?
If you have more questions, feel free to contact us.
You can reach us anytime, as we are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. We will be happy to help you. Call us at WhatsApp: +51 984 525 006 / +51 984 683 047 or send us an email at: info@incredibleperutours.com, or you can also check the “Contact Us” link on this website.
16. Why should I book my tour with Incredible Peru Tours?
There are great reasons to book your tour with us. Here are some of them:
- Excellent Location of Our Travel Office: Our office is located in the Historic Center of Cusco, making coordination easy at any time.
- Tour Organized by an Authorized Peruvian Travel Agency: We are 100% local workers. We are proud to be Peruvian and have the opportunity to share our culture with you, with over 15 years of experience organizing the best tours to the most incredible tourist destinations in our region. We have all our documentation updated and valid, complying with all the formalities and regulations with the local government, being an Authorized Operator of the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu – 2020, which provides security and trust. This also guarantees our seriousness and commitment to your satisfaction, which will be handled with great responsibility and pleasure.
- The Best Price for Your Trip and No Hidden Fees: Getting the best price is great, but getting the best value is even better. We offer an all-inclusive trip at an affordable price, providing you with the best deals. We save you the time of searching with our Best Price Guarantee. How do we do this?… Simply because we are the Direct Tour Operator managing the commercial costs locally and employing local people to carry out your trip with no intermediaries.
- Travel with Experts: The best guides, cooks, and porters in the region. Our staff, known locally as “The Steel Team,” is highly trained to cater to all types of groups, families, friends, couples, and all outdoor enthusiasts.
- High-Quality Equipment for Your Trip: From a simple walking pillow to the most sophisticated trekking poles, to the most comfortable tents and high-quality sleeping bags that guarantee a good rest. We buy new equipment every year with a 2-year rotation, constantly searching for the best brands that are the most comfortable and safe for your trek.
- Excellent Meals – All Included: You won’t have to worry about food because we include all meals during the entire trek. Our cook will impress you with the quality of food prepared in a small tent and kitchen. Everything is made with fresh ingredients; we do not use canned or dehydrated food. We can also prepare vegetarian or special diets according to your needs at no extra cost.
- Guaranteed Departures: We are the only tour operator that guarantees all departures, as we operate 100% of our treks. Other agencies wait to have enough clients before starting a tour. Even if we only have one traveler for a trip date, the tour will operate with us at the prices listed on this website, with no additional charges. Normally, our groups are small, with an average of 4 to 8 people.
- We Treat Our Travel Staff Well: We are committed to our region’s social projects. We ensure fair treatment for our workers, providing them with tickets for the Inca Trail, accommodation, transportation, uniforms, and good food. Our cooks and porters have medical insurance and are paid reasonable salaries based on the work they perform. We also support social projects benefiting local children in health and education, helping to improve their living conditions.
- We Practice Sustainable and Responsible Tourism: We are an eco-friendly company, committed to the environment and the sustainable use of ecological resources. Tourism should have a minimal impact. One important contribution is that our kitchen staff uses biodegradable dishwashing detergents. We also participate in Inca Trail cleaning campaigns to Machu Picchu.
- Personalized Service and Support: When you have a question, we will always respond. We are here to help, provide attention, and personalized support. Call or email our contact center from anywhere and at any time.
17. Is the Inca Trail for me?
Definitely YES, the Inca Trail is one of those things that everyone should do at least once in their life; whether you’re a man or a woman, young or old, in good or bad physical condition… The Inca Trail is simply for EVERYONE…
Finally, as you look forward to this amazing trek, we invite you to join us on a virtual journey through the Peruvian Andes, on one of the most beautiful treks in the world… Now! Breathe, imagine, and dream that you are almost on the Inca Trail and Machu Picchu… Welcome!
Availability and prices
IMPORTANT
The available permits displayed on our website are always updated in real-time.
These available permits are constantly being purchased, so their quantity will decrease as hours and days pass, until they are sold out.
Please note that the available permits are not only for our company but for all Authorized Tour Operators working on this route.
We recommend booking your excursion as soon as possible to not miss out on this great experience.
If you are interested in this route and want to reserve permits or need more information, please contact us: Cell: +51 984525006 / WhatsApp: +51 984683047 or email us at: info@incredibleperutours.com.
If there are no permits available for your Trek date, you can look for other similar excursions that also reach Machu Picchu, such as: the 2-day/1-night Inca Trail, the Salkantay Route, the Choquequirao Route, or the Lares Route, among others.
WHY DO INCA TRAIL TICKETS SELL OUT SO QUICKLY?
According to the current Inca Trail 4-day / 3-night Tourist Use Regulation, only 500 permits are offered daily for this route. This number includes visitors as well as all the Service Personnel from Authorized Travel Agencies, such as Guides, Cooks, and Porters, making tickets very limited.
This service personnel is vital for the excursion because they provide everything you need, including food, accommodation, tents, etc. The guide will keep you safe and informed during the hike; the cook will prepare delicious meals that give you the energy needed to continue your journey; and the porters will carry everything necessary, including camping equipment, kitchen gear, food, sleeping items, and more.
Due to this regulation, the required permits for a group of travelers must always be doubled (Travelers + Agency Service Personnel).
This Tourist Use Regulation for the area is written and controlled by the Ministry of Culture (a Peruvian government entity). The rule is strict, and once the 500 permits for each day are sold, there is no option to purchase additional permits.
Now that you understand the high demand, it is clear why booking your permits as soon as possible through an Authorized Tourism Agency like Incredible Peru Tours – IPT is necessary.
Remember to book your excursion as soon as possible, as permits sell out quickly for this magnificent hike.
OPTIONAL SERVICES
If you wish, for an additional cost, you have the option to add some extra services to your trek, such as:
- Sleeping bag (can be rented at our travel office + $5.00 USD per day)
- A pair of trekking poles (can be rented at our Central Office + $5.00 per day)
- Ticket to Huayna Picchu Mountain (request it when booking this excursion, as it is subject to availability, only 400 tickets per day + $70.00)
- Ticket to Machu Picchu Mountain (request it when booking this excursion, as it is subject to availability, only 400 tickets per day + $70.00)
THINGS TO CONSIDER
Please note that a minimum of 2 people is required to book this hike.
If you are thinking about traveling alone, contact us to offer you a date within an already organized group.
Our passion is family travel, so if you are traveling with children, feel free to contact us for our special promotions.
Our company also offers promotions and discounts for student groups and groups of friends. Please contact us to receive our special offers.
For your peace of mind, Incredible Peru Tours – IPT does not apply any hidden charges or fees.
If you are interested in this route and wish to reserve permits, or want more information, please contact us: Cell: +51 984525006 / WhatsApp: +51 984683047 or email us at: info@incredibleperutours.com.
¡The view during the whole trek was amazing!”
¡We are getting back for sure!”
¡Most unique experience!”
Everything was perfect.”