Peru · 4 Days / 3 Nights · From $1,382 AUD
Trek the legendary original Inca Trail to Machu Picchu — 43km through the Andes over 4 days. Cross Dead Woman's Pass at 4,215m, discover ancient ruins at Sayacmarca and Phuyupatamarca, arrive at the Sun Gate for your first breathtaking view of Machu Picchu at sunrise. A demanding but unforgettable journey with professional guides, porters, and fresh local cuisine.
Pickup 5-6am. Bus to Ollantaytambo for breakfast, then to Piscacucho trailhead. Trek 10km/6hrs through Vilcanota River Valley (2,570m to 2,980m).
Meals: Lunch, Dinner
Most challenging day. Vertical hike 6km to Dead Woman's Pass at 4,215m (1,200m elevation gain). Descent via stone steps to Pacaymayo Camp (3,600m). 10km/7hrs.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Pacaymayo archaeological site, Runquracay Pass (3,950m), Sayacmarca and Phuyupatamarca ruins. 15km/9hrs to Wiñayhuayna camp (2,650m) in high jungle.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Wake 3:30-4:30am. 1hr hike to Sun Gate (2,720m). 2-hour guided Machu Picchu tour. Free time to explore. Optional Huayna Picchu climb. Train to Ollantaytambo, bus to Cusco by 8pm.
Meals: Breakfast
Quick answers to the most common questions about this trip.
Yes — Peruvian government issues only 500 Inca Trail permits per day (including porters and guides), which means about 200 hiker spots. Permits sell out 4–6 months in advance, especially May–September. Book early.
You should be comfortable hiking 6–9 hours per day for 4 days at altitude (up to 4,200 m). Regular cardio for 2–3 months before is recommended. We pace acclimatisation in Cusco first to help.
The classic Inca Trail is the only trek that ends by walking through the Sun Gate into Machu Picchu at sunrise. Salkantay and Choquequirao are alternative treks — equally scenic but you arrive at Machu Picchu by bus from Aguas Calientes.
No — the Peruvian government closes the Inca Trail every February for maintenance and conservation. Salkantay and other alternative treks remain open year-round.
Porters carry the camping gear and food (you carry your daypack), all meals on the trail, professional bilingual guide, permits, train transfer back from Aguas Calientes and the Machu Picchu entry. Sleeping bag and walking poles can be rented from us if needed.
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4 days trekking the legendary Inca Trail to Machu Picchu — Dead Woman's Pass, ancient ruins, and a sunrise you'll never forget. From just $1,382 AUD per person.