Classic Inca Trail Peru – Machu Picchu Inca Trail Tour 4 Days (Group Service)

PRICE FROM

$ 850
$ 750.00 USD

price per person in group service

Classic Inca Trail – Machu Picchu Inca Trail Tour 4 Days (Top-Selling)

Classic Inca Trail Peru is the most popular way to visit Machu Picchu from Cusco. Accompanied by a local tour guide, you will be retracing the footsteps of the Incas.

The whole trail offers the best of Peru in just four days. You will witness everything from scenic landscapes, archaeological sites and Andean traditions.

For those Travellers who have missed a space on Classic Inca Trail we have a GREAT Alternative trek to Machu Picchu (See our 4 Day Salkantay Trek)

Click to see real travellers’ Reviews for a Wonderful Memorable Lifetime experience!

Cusco I Ollantaytambo I Km 82 I Wayllabamba I Pacaymayo I Phuyupatamarca I Wiñayhuayna I Inti Punku I Sungate I Machu Picchu
Duration of the trip:

| 4 Days | 3 Nights

Total Distance

26 Miles /46 Km

Physical Level:

Advanced

Altitude:

13,828 ft (4,215 m)

Type of Tour:

Trekking, Nature & Culture

Group SIze:

SMALL GROUP 08 ppl Max

Classic Inca Trail – Machu Picchu Inca Trail Tour Overview

Classic Inca Trail is the most popular trail to Machu Picchu. The four day Inca Trail takes you through some of the prominent archaeological sites that can be visited only by hiking the trail.

Hiking the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu tops the bucket list of most travelers in South America. This 46 Kilometers (26 Miles) long trail with our local tour guide will take you back in time as you will be retracing the footsteps of the Incas.

Machu Picchu Inca Trail Tour is a tour that can only be operated by certain tour companies who are authorized by the Ministry of Tourism after fulfilling all the requirements.

To maintain the authenticity of the trail, local authorities have imposed several restrictions. One of these is the introduction of Inca Trail Permits which allows access to only 500 people a day. This number also includes guides, porters and cooks so barely 200 travelers get to hike the trail each day.

Inca Trail permits are released six months before the intended date of hike and are sold out within minutes. To secure your permit, we strongly recommend that you book the trail well in advance.

Why Quechuas Expeditions for Inca Trail Peru?

As local tour operators, in Quechuas Expeditions we aim in providing authentic experience to our guests. Our guides are locals and have plenty of experience in guiding the Machu Picchu Inca Trail Tour.

Our tour guides are also Red cross licensed First Aiders. They are also trained on providing assistance if any trekkers experience altitude sickness.

The best time to hike the Classic Inca Trail Peru is during the dry season, between March and November. The trail gets wet and slippery during the rainy season, between November and March.

Please note that Inca Trail Peru is closed in February every year for maintenance.

Classic Inca Trail Peru Summary:

  • TOUR NAME: Classic Inca Trail 4 Days to Machu Picchu
  • INCA TRAIL AVAILABILITY: 2024 – 2025 (Limited Inca Trai Tickets/Permits. Please book in Advance)
  • 100% LOCAL COMPANY: fully licensed Inca Trail Operator, Highly Recommended! Check out our reviews on Trip Advisor & Youtube what our Passengers say about us
  • GROUP SIZE: 02 People Minimum (04 – 06 Average) and 08 People Maximum
  • STARTING POINT: Pick-up from Cusco & Sacred Valley Hotel/Airbnb. From 4:30 am to 5:00 am
  • ENDING POINT: Drop-off in Cusco at Hotel/Airbnb 6:30 pm
  • DEPARTURE: Daily (Based on Availability) Click Here to see Inca Trail Availability INCA TRAIL SPACES By Clicking Here. If you are a group of 02 we depart (No matter if you have paid as large group service). We NEVER pass our people onto another operator as most agencies do here in cusco.
  • HIKING DISTANCE: 46km /26miles
  • PHYSICAL LEVEL: Level 3. Inca Trail Requires some physical preparation and we also recommend to Aclimatize 2 days before we begin the inca trail
  • ALTITUDE: Highiest Point. Dead Woman Pass (Warmiwañusca) 4,200 m / 12,000 ft. and Aguas Calientes Lowest Point 1,900 m/ 6233 ft.
  • TRANSPORTATION: Private Van/Bus to Km 82 Trailhead (for our Passengers and staff) And Expedition Train Back from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo at 14:30 pm and Bus back to Cusco
  • ACCOMMODATIONS: 3 Nights in Camping in 4 Season Tents/02 ppl per Tent (Therm-a-rest Self-Inflating air Mat is included)
  • MEALS: 3 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 3 dinners, 2 tea times + wake-up teas (Vegetarian, Vegan and Free Gluten with NO extra cost, Upon Request)
  • CLASSIC INCA TRAIL & MACHU PICCHU: Inca Trail Permits & Machu Picchu entrance fee Included.
  • PORTERS SERVICE & PERSONAL PORTER: We ensure that our porters are never overloaded and equipped with suitable gear as specified in the table approved by the Ministry of Culture. This allows them to carry our camping equipment and food as well as A personal porter to carry your 6 kg of your personal belongings (Sleeping Bag and Pad) Duffel Bag will be provided at the Briefing time

Machu Picchu Inca Trail Itinerary Overview:

  • Day 1: Cusco – Sacred Valley – KM 82 – Huayllabamba
  • Day 2: Huayllabamba – Dead Woman Pass – Pacaymayo
  • Day 3: Pacaymayo – Runkuracay – Sayacmarca – Phuyupatamarca – Winayhuayna
  • Day 4: Winayhuayna – Sungate – Machupicchu – Aguas Calientes – Ollantaytambo – Cusco

UPCOMING INCA TRAIL: 4-day Permits are running out quickly for May to September. See Below you will find the dates that are still available.( To confirm Send us Your personal information as well as a deposit of US$250 and you are ready to depart)

Inca Trail Availability and Permits for 2024 – 2025

Inca Trail Availability November 2024
Inca Trail Availability December 2024
Inca Trail Availability January 2025
Inca Trail Availability March 2025
Inca Trail Availability April 2025
Inca Trail Availability June, July, August, September, October 2025 High Season
Inca Trail Availability November 2025
Inca Trail Availability December 2025

Classic Inca Trail to Machu Picchu Highlights

  • Historic Pathways: The Classic Inca Trail is an ancient network of paths once used by the Inca Empire, giving trekkers a direct link to the rich history of the region.
  • Sun Gate Views: Inti Punku, or the Sun Gate, offers the first panoramic and awe-inspiring view of Machu Picchu as trekkers approach the citadel, especially during sunrise.
  • Varied Terrain: The trail winds through diverse landscapes, from dense cloud forests and subtropical jungles to high mountain passes, showcasing the best of the Andean ecosystem.
  • Ancient Incan Ruins: Along the trek, hikers encounter several lesser-known but equally captivating Incan ruins, each with its own unique story and architecture.
  • Flora and Fauna: The trail is home to a wide variety of endemic species, giving nature enthusiasts the chance to spot unique plants and wildlife found only in this region.
  • Machu Picchu Culmination: The four-day trek culminates in the majestic Lost City of the Incas, Machu Picchu, making the rigorous journey exceptionally rewarding.

Please note that we require a minimum of two participants for the trip. You can choose any departure day that best fits your schedule. Rest assured, once you’re booked, your departure is 100% guaranteed. For the confirmation and security of your Inca Trail permits, kindly send us the completed booking form along with a 30% deposit, and you’ll be all set for your journey.

Please note: The itinerary and campsite allocations may change based on the booking time and the campsites designated by INC, the institution overseeing the Classic Inca Trail. The first 250 spots are reserved for the Wiñay Wayna Campsite, located just 2 hours from Machu Picchu. Remaining spots are for the Phuyupatamarca Campsite, a 5-hour walk from Machu Picchu. To secure a spot at Wiñay Wayna, we advise booking well in advance.

DAY 1
Cusco – Piskacucho – Km 82 – Huayllabamba+

DAY 2
Huayllabamba – Dead Woman’s Pass – Pacaymayu+

DAY 3
Pacaymayu – Chaquicocha – Wiñay Wayna+

DAY 4
Wiñay Wayna – Machu Picchu – Cusco+

Classic Inca Trail Peru Includes:

  • PRIVATE TRANSPORTATION/ Private Tourist transportation Cusco – Ollantaytambo and then KM 82 (The Trailhead) (We never share Bus service with other companies as most agencies do here to minimize costs) and Please, Note. we always use the same tourist transportation for our porters. we wont send them by an unconfortable truck as most do here.
  • EXPEDITIONS TRAIN BACK TICKET/ Tourist Expeditions train Back ticket (Between 1:30pm to 7:00pm. Subjet to availability) from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo and then bus back to cusco and we willdropp you off at the hotel.
  • PROFFESIONAL GUIDES/ English – Spanish speaking guide for 4 days of the Inca Trail and Machupicchu.(All our Guides work for us only) All of them speak Fluent English & Second Guide Over 08 people Group(Large Group Service)
  • CAMPING EQUIPMENT/ Thermarest air-inflate Confortable sleeping Mattress (While others agencies are using foam mat) Thats why many of them run away from us. Because they dont want their passengers to see the Quality of our Camping equipment)
  • Two person CAMPING TENTS (3-people capacity tent used as doubles – Kayla Doite) 4 season tent Aluminium poles Tents
  • MASTER CHEFFS/Cook and assistance of the Cook.(We have chosen the best cook/cheffs and all are trained by Quechuas Expeditions every month)
  • Cooking equipment (We use New cooking equipment and change all every 3 months) Snacks (Fruits, energy bars)
  • Daily tea service (Wake up Coca tea and afternoon tea time(Happy hour) with full of popcorn and special snacks made by our cooks)
  • Dining equipment including portable chairs and tables
  • FOOD/Food service in the campsites (3 breakfast, 3 lunches, 3 dinners, 3 snacks) – nutritionally balanced menu: Buffet style Plenty of food you will never be hungry with us! as well as Guinea Pig for free because we want you to taste all from Peru.
  • Vegetarian and free Gluten menu at no extra cost (Please let us know at the time of booking)
  • Portering Service. As detailed in the table authorised by the INC. (To carry our camping equipment and food) We Never overload our porters. Please, see a detailed page where you can see how we threat our porter Chaskis
  • Extra Portering Service of 7 Kilos/14 pounds for our personal stuff (We will provide you a duffel bag to put all your personal stuff as well as the sleeping bag & Mat)
  • INCA TRAIL PERMITS AND ADMISION TICKETS/Inca Trail and Machupicchu Permits & entrance fees as well as all the porters and cooks valid for 4 days as well as insurance policy of life for all our staff.
  • Visit to Machu Picchu on the 4th day (2 hours guide tour to explore the whole incan site)
  • Camping equipment and basic field equipment for our porters as well as adecuate clothing like: (Sleeping bag, Mat, Jacket, T-shirt, pant, rain poncho, shoes, hat, belts, proper backpack to carry the equipment and all of them are limited to carry 20kg only).
  • Private Transportation from the train station of Ollantaytambo to Cusco (2 hours drive) and drop off at the hotel.(we only use our Private Transportation. so you will never wait at the train station till the bus of 30 ppl gets full)
  • First-aid kit (Our Guide will carry while on the Inca Trail) Please, note all our Guides are trained every year in first-aid)
  • Emergency oxygen bottle (Our guide will carry while on the Inca Trail)
  • Rain waterproof cover for your day backpacks as well as Rain poncho
  • Pre trek Orientation – briefing (Hotel or Office) Let us know once you are at the office or by email.
  • Single Tents upon request with no extra cost.
  • Water for Driking: we will supply with filtered and boiled water and your bottles will be filled at each meal time.
  • Water bottle for refilling with water along the inca trail (WE DONT WANT YOU TO USE PLASTIC BOTTLES) Get one once you are at our office!!!
  • Free “I survived ” T-shirt and certificate (only for PEOPLE who successfully complete the trek!!!)

Classic Inca Trail Peru Does Not Include:

  • Breakfast – Day 1
  • Lunch and dinner – Day 4
  • Tips (optional)
  • Travel and health insurance.(bring copies with you please):Quechuas Expeditions highly recommend to get an insurance of trip cancellation/interruption insurance to protect your travel investment. Included with your pre-departure package, bring your travel insurance to cover trip cancellation, interruption, baggage loss and delay, emergency medical evacuation insurance and emergency medical expense insurance.

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DISCOUNTS (to apply discounts. Please send us an email at info@quechuasexpeditions.com)

  • UNIVERSITY STUDENT CARD (Students must be below 25 years) : US$30. Please send us a a scanned copy of the student card at the time of booking.
  • Under 17 years old: US$30 Please send us a copy of passport at the time of booking.
  • Under 12 years old: US$30  Please send us a copy of passport at the time of booking.
  • Group of 5 or more: US$20 per person. All you need is to book the trek together at the same time.

UPGRADES:

  • Huayna Picchu Mountain (Based on Availability): US$90 Based on Availability (Let us at the time of booking)
  • Machu Picchu Mountain (Based on Availability): US$90 Based on Availability (Let us at the time of booking)
  • Extra Portering Service for the entire trip/14kg- US$150 (We will porvide you a duffel bag to put all your personal items. This will be given to you at the briefing time)
  • Extra Portering Service for the entire trip/7kg- US$75 (We will provide you a duffel bag to put all your personal items. This will be given to you at the briefing time)
  • Extra Portering Service for the entire trip/4kg- US$50 (We will provide you a duffel bag to put all your personal items. This will be given to you at the briefing time)
  • Upgrade to Vista dome Train (First Class Train) (Includes Private Transportation From Ollantaytambo to Cusco) USUS$70
  • Extra Night in Aguas Calientes US$30 per person (Twin Bed room, 3 Beds room & 4 Beds Room with Private shower & Bathroom)
  • A night in Cusco at our Quechuas Guesthouse: from US$20 per person / Twin Bed room (Before we do the tour/trek or after the tour/trek)

RENTALS

  • Goose Down sleeping bag (Mummy style): US$30 for the entire trip
  • (Black Dimond) Walking Poles Rubber Tips Included: US$20 for the entire trip
  • Day Pack 20 – 30 liters (Rain cover included): US$15 for the entire trip

ADITIONAL INFO:

BRIEFING for all our treks is a Night before we do the trek at 6:30pm in our office, But if you want us to come to your Hotel let us know in advance.(You will get a chance to meet you guide and as well as to give you your duffel bags)

STORAGE Most Hotels have storage where you can leave the rest of your stuff while you hike to Machupicchu, But if they dont have a place you can leave your stuff in our storage with no extra cost. (Let us know at the time of briefing)

Please note that we require a minimum of two participants for the trip. You can choose any departure day that best fits your schedule. Rest assured, once you’re booked, your departure is 100% guaranteed. For the confirmation and security of your Inca Trail permits, kindly send us the completed booking form along with a 30% deposit, and you’ll be all set for your journey.

Classic Inca Trail Peru (Prices for 2024 & 2025)

Availability (Based On Availability): Daily Departures All Departures are 100% Guaranteed. If You’re Booked, You are Going, We wont Cancel your Trip !!!

How to Book?: Send us your personal information as well as a Deposit of 30% and the Final Balance will be paid once you are in Cusco.

Group Service: Price per person: US$750

(You will be joined into a formed group of people who come from different countries/Nationalities): From 04 Persons to 08 Persons (Maximum)

If you are a group of 02 we depart (No matter if you have paid as GROUP SERVICE). We NEVER pass our people onto another operator as most agencies do here in cusco.

Classic Inca Trail Peru Packing List:

Most people automatically assume that the weather is hot in South America, but because of the higher altitude in the Andes, the temperature can feel quite cold, especially at night. We recommend the use of a duffel bag or backpack, whichever is easiest for you to carry. A good size daypack is also essential.

List of things you must bring:
  • Original Passport (and some copies) If you have changed your passport Bring a couple of copies of the one that you have used to purchase the inca trail permit.
  • Travel insurance  is essential (and some copies)
  • Airline tickets (and some copies)
  • US$ cash and Credit or debit card (see personal spending money)
  • Any entry visas or vaccination certificates required
  • Camera and Memory cards
  • Rechargeable batteries and adapters
  • Reading/writing material
  • Binoculars
  • Cover for backpacks
  • Pocketknife.
  • Fleece top
  • Windproof/waterproof jacket
  • Small towel and swim wear
  • Shirts/t-shirts
  • Sun hat
  • 2 pairs of shorts
  • 2 pairs of long trousers *zipp off
  • 1 pair hiking pants/track pants
  • Hiking boots/ sturdy walking shoes (with ankle protectors)
  • Knee-length socks (to be used with rubber boots, if provided at the jungle lodge)
  • Sport hiking sandals
  • Sun block
  • Sunglasses
  • Toiletries (biodegradable)
  • Watch or alarm clock
  • Water bottle
  • Purifying tablets or filter (Micropur recommeded)
  • Insect Repellent (for mosquitos)25 % of deet at least you can also by in cusco.
  • Flashlight (head light recommended)
  • Money belt
  • Sleeping silk liner (for sleeping bags)
  • Wool hat, mitts or gloves (preferably waterproof)
  • Rain poncho, plastic bags for your personal stuff to keep dry
  • Sleeping bag (it can be hired form us) we have goose down or syntetic sleeping bag
  • Anti-inflammatory tablets (e.g. Ibuprofen)
  • Thermal underwear
  • Personal first-aid kit (should contain lip salve, Aspirin, Band Aids, anti-histamine, Imodium or similar tablets for mild cases of diarrhoea, re-hydration powder, extra prescription drugs you may be taking)

Quechuas Expeditions is a Reliable And Certified Company
Mountain & Jungle Specialists Peru Tour Operator

The Best 100% Peruvian Local Tour Operator

Licensed tour operators for the Inca Trail and Machu Picchu are regulated by the INC (Institute of National Culture). These operators must meet specific requirements, including having professional guides, quality camping equipment, radio communications, and emergency first aid supplies such as oxygen tank. Each year, the license to operate the Inca Trail is renewed. The government has faced difficulties in revoking licenses from underperforming companies due to legal issues. However, legislation is expected to be introduced in 2008 to grant more power to the Ministry of Tourism, enabling them to fine, suspend, or close poorly performing operators. To find a comprehensive list of licensed Inca Trail tour operators, you can click on the provided link.

If you plan to trek the Inca Trail in 2023-2024, it is advisable to secure your spots as soon as possible. The availability of spaces can be checked on the official Inca Trail website. It is recommended to book now without delay. The availability shown on the website includes spaces for both the Classic Inca Trail (4 days, 5 days, 3 days, and 6 days) and the Short Inca Trail starting from Km 104, which usually has available spaces. When consulting or booking, please specify which trail you are interested in.

We offer guaranteed Inca Trail departures every day in 2023-2024, as long as there are available spaces. You can start the trek on any date marked in green on the availability calendar, except during February when the Inca Trail is closed for maintenance, conservation projects, and due to heavy rainfall.

If permits for your desired date are sold out, you have the option to pre-reserve for another date next year or explore alternative tours that also lead to Machu Picchu. Some alternative treks include the Salkantay Trek, Lares Trek, Inca Jungle Trail, Choquequirao Trek, Vilcabamba Trek, Ancascocha Trek, or the Short Inca Trail (2 or 3 days), which is available year-round.

Regardless of the tour you choose, the overall experience of visiting Machu Picchu will be similar. The main difference lies in the preceding part of the journey, such as the trail taken, train travel, or alternative treks.

Please note that the maximum number of available Inca Trail permits is 500 per day, which includes support staff. This means that only around 200 permits are allocated to tourists, with the remaining 300 for cooks, porters, and guides.

It’s important to understand that no travel agency or tour operator can offer you a space for the Inca Trail unless there are available spaces shown for your desired starting date. If there are 90 spaces or fewer, it is crucial to book your Inca Trail as quickly as possible, as the remaining spaces can sell out within hours or even minutes.

Furthermore, it’s worth noting that canceled reservations for the Inca Trail cannot be used by other individuals. The system is designed to prevent companies from booking spaces with fictitious information in advance and then substituting it with the details of their last-minute clients.

We hope you find this information on Inca Trail availability useful. Start envisioning your next adventure in 2023-2024!

How to Make a Reservation for the Inca Trail

To book the Inca Trail online, follow these steps:

Step 1: Check Availability
Make sure to make your reservation well in advance. Check if there are still available spaces in our group and book as early as possible, as trek departure dates are offered on a first-come-first-served basis. Also, ensure that your passport is valid for at least 6 months after the date you enter Peru. If your passport is not valid or you plan to renew it before coming to Peru, please refer to our Frequently Asked Questions and Booking & Conditions page for more information.

Step 2: Choose Your Date and Provide Personal Information
Select your preferred date or join one of our fixed departure dates (minimum of 2 people required to open a new departure date). Please note that we will not pass you onto another operator, unlike many travel agencies that share resources to minimize costs. We require all personal information, including full names, nationalities, passport numbers, dates of birth, and genders. This information is necessary for Inca Trail permits, porters permits, and entrance fees to the Inca Trail and Machu Picchu.

Step 3: Pay the Trek Deposit
To secure your Inca Trail reservation, you must pay a Non-refundable deposit of US$200. Payment can be made through Paypal, or bank transfer. Paypal is the fastest and safest method of payment in Peru. (Click Here Method of Payments)

Step 4: Receive Confirmation Travel Invoice
Once we receive all the necessary requirements and the deposit, we will send you a Travel Invoice for the trek and deposit. This document must be printed and shown at our office in Cusco.

Step 5: Pay the Remaining Trek Balance
The remaining balance of the trek cost can be paid in cash (US dollars or Peruvian Nuevo Soles). The payment should be made at our offices in Cusco at least 2 days before the trek departure, before 10:00 am. You can withdraw cash from ATMs in Cusco, so it is advisable to inform your bank in advance about your travel plans to avoid any issues with your credit/bank cards while abroad.

Pre-Departure Briefing for the Inca Trail:
One or two days before departure, our representative in Cusco will contact you at your hotel for a pre-departure briefing. During this meeting, your guide will provide important information and answer any questions you may have about the Inca Trail program. Please inform us of your hotel details and arrival date in advance. If you don’t have an operator in Cusco, our office can assist with reconfirming any domestic flights to Lima or other cities.

Campsites on the Inca Trail:
Please note that the campsites on the Inca Trail are assigned by the Institute of National Culture, and we do not have control over the allocation. The allocation depends on how early you book and the availability of permits. The first 250 spaces are usually allocated to Wiñay Wayna, the third campsite. If you receive a campsite further away, it may result in a longer walk on the last day, potentially missing the sunrise at Machu Picchu. However, Machu Picchu itself is still a remarkable sight to behold.

Porter Working Conditions:
There are regulations in place to ensure fair working conditions for porters on the Inca Trail. The minimum wage for porters is 120 Peruvian Soles per day. However, some companies still pay porters as low as 80 per day. The maximum weight a porter can carry is limited to 20kg, including their personal items. While there are weigh-stations at the beginning of the trail, some tour operators and trekkers may abuse the system by carrying extra weight. We prioritize the well-being of our porters and adhere to the regulations.

Luggage Storage:
We recommend leaving any luggage you don’t need during the trek at your hotel. Most hotels in Cusco offer a safety deposit service free of charge. If your hotel doesn’t provide this service, we can store your luggage for you. Please inform us in advance.

Medical Emergencies:
Our guides carry a first aid kit for basic medical problems such as traveler’s diarrhea and cuts/scrapes. They receive regular training in first aid and emergency procedures. While it is rare for travelers to be unable to complete the hike, in such cases, they are escorted back to Cusco and can rejoin the group in Machu Picchu via train a few days later. In case of a serious medical emergency, Cusco has modern medical facilities, and our guides and porters have evacuation strategies in place.

Frequently Asked Questions – Classic Inca Trail 4 Days: All-Inclusive Door-to-Door Service

What is the Inca Trail?
The Inca Trail is a renowned hiking route in Peru that leads to the ancient city of Machu Picchu. Along the trail, hikers can enjoy breathtaking views of the Andes Mountains and encounter numerous Inca ruins.

What is the length of the Inca Trail?
The classic Inca Trail takes four days and three nights to complete, covering approximately 42 kilometers (26 miles).

Is a permit required to hike the Inca Trail?
Yes, a permit is necessary to hike the Inca Trail. The Peruvian government restricts the number of daily hikers to preserve the delicate ecosystem and safeguard the ruins. It is crucial to book your permit well in advance, as they tend to sell out quickly.

How challenging is the Inca Trail?
The Inca Trail presents a moderate to challenging level of difficulty, featuring steep ascents and descents, high altitudes, and varying weather conditions. Adequate physical preparation and acclimatization to the altitude are essential before embarking on the trail.

What should I pack for the Inca Trail?
It is recommended to pack comfortable hiking attire, sturdy hiking shoes, a warm sleeping bag, a waterproof jacket, sunscreen, insect repellent, a hat, sunglasses, a water bottle, and snacks. Bringing a small backpack to carry personal belongings is also advisable.

Which is the best time of year to hike the Inca Trail?
A: The optimal time to hike the Inca Trail is during the dry season, which occurs from April to October. While it is possible to hike the trail year-round, the rainy season (November to March) can make the trek more challenging and muddy.

Do I need a guide for the Inca Trail?
Yes, all hikers undertaking the Inca Trail must be accompanied by a licensed guide. This requirement ensures the safety of hikers and aids in the preservation of the trail and ruins.

How much does it cost to hike the Inca Trail?
The cost of hiking the Inca Trail can vary depending on the tour operator and the level of service selected. Generally, expect to pay between $700 and $1000 USD per person for a four-day trek, which includes permits, a guide, food, and camping equipment.

Can I hike the Inca Trail alone?
No, solo hiking on the Inca Trail is not permitted. All hikers must be part of a guided group, and permits are issued for specific departure dates and group sizes.

Is altitude sickness a concern on the Inca Trail?
Yes, altitude sickness can be a concern on the Inca Trail, given that it reaches elevations exceeding 4,200 meters (13,800 feet). Proper acclimatization, hydration, and attentiveness to signs of altitude sickness are important during the trek.

What equipment does Quechuas Expeditions provide?
Quechuas Expeditions supplies a range of equipment for their trips, including sleeping tents (made of 4-season aluminum poles and accommodating 2 people in each 3-person capacity tent), dining tents, tables, chairs, toilet tents, cooking equipment, water purifiers, air Thermarest mattresses, and other camping gear. They prioritize purchasing high-quality equipment in Peru and regularly replace older equipment with newer ones.

What items do I need to carry?
For daily hiking, it is recommended that travelers carry essential items such as water, snacks, camera, and film. Porters will handle the transportation of all other supplies, including camping equipment, clothing, and sleeping bags. Travelers are advised to bring only the necessary belongings for the trail and leave any unnecessary luggage at their hotel in Cusco or the Sacred Valley. To ensure the porters are not overloaded, there is a weight limit of 12 lbs (approximately 5.4 kg) for personal belongings during the hike. However, if you hire an extra porter, they can carry all of your personal items based on the specific porter service you have requested, such as Full Porter (12 kg), Half Porter (6 kg), or a Porter to carry your sleeping bag and pad (4 kg).

What are the qualities of the guides?
Quechuas Expeditions Tours employs highly skilled and experienced guides. These guides are typically from the surrounding Cusco/Sacred Valley area and are fluent in English, Spanish, and the native language of Quechua. With an average of 5-10 years of experience leading Inca trail hikes, they possess in-depth knowledge about the history, spirituality, culture, and ecology of the region. The guides receive excellent reviews from travelers and are often recommended by reputable sources such as Lonely Planet and Trip Advisor. For more information and testimonials, you can visit their Testimonials page.

What is the food like on the Inca Trail?
Each group on the Inca Trail is accompanied by a dedicated cook. Travelers consistently praise the delicious menu provided during the hike. Breakfast, lunch, dinner, and hearty snacks are included, offering a combination of local specialties and international favorites. Quechuas Expeditions also caters to vegetarian meals upon request. If you have any special dietary requirements, with sufficient notice, they can usually accommodate those as well. Rest assured, you will not go hungry during your trek with Quechuas Expeditions.

How is drinking water supplied?
While there may be opportunities to purchase bottled water along the trail, Quechuas Expeditions encourages travelers to bring their own refillable bottles to minimize plastic waste. The company follows a process to ensure safe drinking water: the water is boiled, treated with iodine, and then filtered using portable filters like Katadyn and PUR. Water for refilling bottles is available in the morning and during meal times.

What is the policy for late cancellations?
According to current regulations, Quechuas Expeditions cannot replace canceled passengers with new ones. Trek permits are Non-refundable and Non-transferable.

If I provide a deposit now, will you immediately purchase my permit?
While not necessarily immediate, Quechuas Expeditions typically purchases the permits within a few days after receiving your deposit. If you want them to act as soon as possible, they suggest sending the deposit via Paypal, which is considered the fastest and safest method in Cusco, Peru. With this option, they can receive the money within minutes and confirm the trip promptly.

Travel Guide

If you’re planning to hike the Inca Trail, it’s important to bring certain items to ensure a safe and comfortable journey. Here are some key items to consider:

Suitable footwear: Choose comfortable, sturdy hiking boots that are well broken-in since you’ll be walking on rocky and uneven terrain for several days.
Clothing for all weather conditions: Pack clothing suitable for a range of temperatures and weather conditions. Include warm layers, a waterproof jacket and pants, and clothing that can be easily layered for changing temperatures.
Sleeping bag: Bring a high-quality sleeping bag that can keep you warm at night. Temperatures can drop significantly at higher elevations, so ensure your sleeping bag is suitable for cold weather.
Daypack: Carry a small daypack to hold essentials such as water, snacks, sunscreen, and rain gear.
Water purification system: The water along the trail is not safe to drink, so bring a water purification system like tablets or a filtration system to ensure clean drinking water.
Insect repellent: The Inca Trail is home to various insects, including mosquitoes and biting flies. Use insect repellent to protect yourself.
Trekking poles: Consider using trekking poles to reduce strain on your knees and ankles, especially during steep uphill and downhill sections of the trail.
First aid kit: Pack a first aid kit with essentials like bandages, pain relievers, and blister treatment. While your tour operator may provide a basic kit, it’s a good idea to bring your own as well.
Headlamp or flashlight: Since there are no streetlights along the Inca Trail, bring a headlamp or flashlight for navigation around camp at night.

Camera or Phone: Don’t forget to bring a camera to capture the stunning scenery along the trail!

Recommendations to Book Classic Inca Trail:

Book in advance: The Inca Trail is popular, and permits can sell out quickly. Book your trip 3 to 6 months in advance to secure a spot.
Get in shape: The Inca Trail is a challenging hike, so ensure you’re physically fit by engaging in cardio and strength training exercises beforehand.
Acclimate to the altitude: Spend a few days in high-altitude destinations like Cusco to acclimate before starting the hike.
Pack appropriately: Bring comfortable hiking shoes, warm clothing, a waterproof jacket, a hat, sunscreen, insect repellent, and plenty of water.
Choose a reputable tour operator: Only hike the Inca Trail with a licensed tour operator known for experienced guides, good equipment, and responsible tourism practices.
Respect the environment and local communities: Leave no trash behind, ask for permission before taking photographs, and purchase goods only from authorized vendors.
Best time for the Classic Inca Trail: The ideal time is from April to October, during the dry season with sunny and cold days. Note that the Inca Trail is closed for maintenance work in February, but the entrance to Machu Picchu is open year-round.
What to bring for the Inca Trail: Take only what’s necessary, considering that excess weight can affect your performance. Here’s a list of items to consider:

  • Original Passport
  • Cash in small denominations (10, 20, 50, 100 soles)
  • Camera and video camera
  • Backpack cover
  • Windproof waterproof jacket
  • Small towel and bathing suit
  • Shirts/T-shirts (4)
  • Sun hat
  • Shorts (1 pair)
  • Long pants (2 pairs)
  • Hiking boots/comfortable shoes
  • Sport sandals
  • Sunscreen
  • Sunglasses
  • Toiletries (biodegradable)
  • Water bottle
  • Flashlight
  • Personal First aid kit
  • Enjoy the trek: Remember to enjoy the hike fully. It’s not a competition to reach Machu Picchu, but an opportunity to appreciate beautiful landscapes, experience adrenaline, and have fun while visiting archaeological sites and creating new memories that other hikes won’t offer.
  • We strongly recommend that you purchase travel insurance to safeguard your investment. It is advisable to take out insurance before you leave and consider working with a reputable agency for cost-effective cover.

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