Discover the sunrise at Machu Picchu with a unique experience
A hike that stands out for its inspiring view of the sunrise from the Sun Gate(Inti Punku), allowing you to appreciate the majestic Machu Picchu.
Overview
The famous Inca Trail awaits you, offering four days filled with breathtaking scenery, hidden archaeological wonders, and moments that will remain etched in your memory.
This iconic trek will take you through high mountain passes, lush cloud forests, and ancient Inca sites that can only be reached on foot. It’s not just a hike, it’s the ultimate Peruvian adventure, with expert guides, delicious meals and the incredible reward of watching the sunrise over Machu Picchu through the Sun Gate.
Important: The Inca Trail is closed every February for maintenance. Itās open from March 1 to January 31 each year.
- Hike the legendary Classic Inca Trail through stunning Andean landscapes.
- Explore impressive Inca ruins such as Llactapata, Runkurakay, Sayacmarca, and WiƱay Wayna along the Inca Trail trek.
- Enjoy breathtaking views of the Andes, snow-capped mountains, and cloud forests.
- Walk through diverse ecosystems, from high Andean peaks to lush jungle.
- Enter Machu Picchu through the Sun Gate (Inti Punku) at sunrise, one of the most iconic highlights of the Classic Inca Trail.
- Learn from expert local guides about Inca history, culture, and the secrets of this ancient trail.
- Enjoy freshly prepared meals every day by our trekking chefs.
Classic Inca Trail 4-Day Itinerary
Day 1: Cusco - Km 82 - Llactapata - Huayllabamba
Begin your adventure by being picked up from your hotel around 5:00 a.m., and then travel by private transport to kilometer 82 (Piscacucho), the starting point of the legendary Inca Trail. After a brief entrance check, you will begin a gentle and scenic hike along a trail that borders the Urubamba River, surrounded by agricultural fields and towering mountains.
During the hike, you will stop to explore the archaeological complex of Llactapata (2,840 meters above sea level), an ancient Inca agricultural center overlooking the valley, where your guide will give you an introduction to the history of the Inca empire and its network of roads.
After a rest, you will continue the tour following the beautiful Cusichaca River valley, passing through small villages and Andean terraced areas. As you advance, you will notice a progressive change in the vegetation, with more trees and shade, which heralds the entrance to the Andean forest.
After approximately 6 to 7 hours of total hiking (including breaks), you will arrive at the first campsite in the picturesque village of Huayllabamba (2,950 meters above sea level), where you can rest, have dinner and prepare for the next day’s challenging ascent to the WarmiwaƱusca pass.
This first day is ideal to acclimatize, enjoy the scenery and connect with the ancient history of the trail.
Day 2: Huayllabamba - WarmiwaƱusca Pass - Pacaymayo
Get ready for the most challenging and at the same time one of the most rewarding days of the Inca Trail. After a nutritious breakfast at the Huayllabamba camp, we will begin an intense uphill hike through mountainous landscapes and cloud forests full of native vegetation.
As we gain altitude, the sounds of the river are left behind and the imposing Apus (mountain spirits) begin to accompany us along the way. The effort will be rewarded when we reach the Abra de WarmiwaƱusca, or “Paso de la Mujer Muerta”, the highest point of the Inca Trail at (4200 m.a.s.l / 13,779 ft). From there, enjoy unparalleled panoramic views of the Andean mountains and take a moment to celebrate this great personal achievement.
After a well-deserved rest at the summit, we will slowly descend to the Pacaymayo Valley (3,600 m / 13,779 ft), surrounded by mountains and wilderness. Here you will be waiting for our second camp, where you can relax, have dinner under the stars and rest in the middle of a silent and magical environment, ideal for reconnecting with nature.
This day, although demanding, will be one of the most memorable of the entire route, for its landscapes, the physical challenge and the deep connection with the Andes.
Day 3: Pacaymayo - Runkurakay - Sayacmarca - Puyapatamarca - WiƱay Wayna
After a comforting breakfast, we begin a magical day where history and nature intertwine at every step. The hike begins with a moderate ascent to the archaeological site of Runkurakay, an ancient Inca guard post with a semicircular shape, from where spectacular views of the valley can be appreciated.
We continue ascending to the second pass of the trail (approx. 3,950 m a.s.l.), and then descend to Sayacmarca, an archaeological complex spectacularly located on a rocky hill, which seems to hang between the clouds. This site, whose name means “inaccessible village”, offers a view of sophisticated Inca urbanism.
The trail then takes us through cloud forests, carved stone tunnels and dense, vibrant vegetation, until we reach the third and final pass Puyupatamarca (the “village above the clouds”), one of the highest and most mystical points of the day, with ceremonial terraces offering a sublime view of the mountains and, on clear days, the Machu Picchu Sanctuary in the distance.
From here, we begin a long and scenic descent down Inca stone steps to WiƱay Wayna (2,650 m.a.s.l.), considered by many to be the most beautiful site on the Inca Trail. Its name means āEternally Youngā and its set of terraces, temples and ceremonial fountains along with an impressive view of the valley make this place a true hidden treasure.
Here we will spend our last night, in a comfortable camp surrounded by history, just a few hours from the citadel of Machu Picchu. Ideal to rest and prepare for the final big day.
Day 4: WiƱay Wayna - Sun Gate (Inti Punku) - Machu Picchu - Cusco
On this last and exciting day, we start the day very early, before dawn, after breakfast at the WiƱay Wayna camp, we make the final hike along an ancestral trail surrounded by tropical vegetation and mystery.
After about an hour and a half, we arrive at Inti Punku or āSun Gateā, the original access to Machu Picchu in the time of the Inca Empire. From this privileged point, we contemplate for the first time the sacred citadel while the light of dawn slowly bathes it. A magical moment that marks the perfect culmination of the journey.
From there, we descend gently until we enter Machu Picchu (2,430 m.a.s.l.), where we will have a complete guided tour of approximately 2 hours through the temples, plazas, agricultural terraces and ceremonial enclosures of this wonder of the modern world. Our guide will share the history, spirituality and architectural genius of this Andean jewel.
After the tour, you will have free time to explore on your own (if you have additional entrance to Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain, this would be the ideal time to go up). Finally, we will descend by bus to the town of Aguas Calientes, where you can have lunch and rest before boarding the train back to Ollantaytambo, and from there, continue by transportation to your hotel in Cusco.
An unforgettable end to a transforming adventure that will connect you forever with the history, nature and energy of the Andes.
Included
- Pre-trip briefing the night before at our office
- Pick up from your hotel - transportation to km 80
- 3 breakfasts, 3 lunches, and 3 dinners (vegetarian options available)
- Entrance ticket to the Inca Trail
- Entrance ticket to Machu Picchu
- Professional bilingual guide (English/Spanish)
- Chef and assistants
- Large tent, dining room, and kitchen
- 3 nights of camping
- Porters (only carry camping logistics and support with sleeping bags and mats)
- Train ticket from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo
- Transportation from Ollantaytambo to Cusco
Not Included
- Personal care items
- Tips for the guide and porters
- Breakfast on the first day, lunch and dinner on the last day
- Walking sticks
- Sleeping bag
- Entrance to Aguas Calientes hot springs
- Extra porters (only carry 20 kilos per person)
- Entrance to Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain (optional, $70 USD per person). Book in advance, minimum 3 months before.
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Your journey, in expert hands
With more than 15 years of experience organizing trips in the Andes, Conde Travel has become a renowned agency known for its excellence and safety. Thousands of international travelers choose us every year for our personalized service and professionalism.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How can I book the Classic Inca Trail package?
Reservations can be made directly through our website, by calling our contact number, or by sending a message via WhatsApp (+51 984800095). You can also email us at (booking@conde.travel) with the details of the tour you want.
When is the best time to hike the Classic Inca Trail to Machu Picchu?
The best months are during the dry season (AprilāOctober). The rainy season (NovemberāMarch) makes the trail muddier but with fewer crowds. The Inca Trail is closed every February for maintenance.
What makes the Classic Inca Trail 4 Days unique compared to other treks?
The Classic Inca Trail is the only trek that allows hikers to enter Machu Picchu through the Sun Gate (Inti Punku) at sunrise, offering a once-in-a-lifetime view after following the sacred path of the Incas.
Can I add Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain to this tour?
Yes, both hikes can be added to the Classic Inca Trail 4 Days tour, but tickets must be reserved in advance due to limited availability.
Book your adventure now!
- Offer valid until: Oct 31, 2025
- Book months in advance
