Classic Inca Trail to Machu Picchu – 4 Days

Booking the Classic Inca Trail with us is easy, but it does require some planning. This trek is one of the most sought after in the world and permits are limited to 500 per day, including porters and guides. That is why we recommend booking at least six months in advance, especially if you plan to travel between May and September. Only official tour operators authorized by the Peruvian government, such as Conde Travel, are allowed to handle Inca Trail permits. Once you confirm your booking, our team processes the permits through the official system of the Ministry of Culture and sends you the final confirmation.

Inca Trail permits sell out very quickly, especially during the high season from May to September. There are no waiting lists or resales — once the permits are gone, there’s no way to get more.
So if you already have dates in mind, make sure to secure them as soon as possible. The best time to book is between October and December of the previous year.

Always choose an official local operator with valid government permits, such as Conde Travel. Only authorized agencies can purchase entry tickets directly in Cusco and provide certified guides, cooks, and porters.
Avoid intermediaries or agencies that “resell” spaces, as you could lose your booking if the permits sell out beforehand.

If there’s no availability for your dates, we offer equally impressive alternative routes such as the Short Inca Trail – 2 days, the Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu – 5 Days, or the Lares Trek to Machu Picchu.
These hikes are genuine Andean adventures, and many include a visit to Machu Picchu. Our team will help you choose the best option based on your interests and fitness level.

The Classic Inca Trail is a truly authentic camping experience. You’ll spend three nights in safe, comfortable tents set up by our team of porters. At Conde Travel, we provide spacious tents, along with dining, kitchen, and portable bathroom tents to ensure your comfort. There are no hotels along the route, but we guarantee a well-organized and enjoyable experience surrounded by the beauty of nature.

The highest point on the trail is Warmiwañusca Pass, also known as “Dead Woman’s Pass,” which stands at 4,215 meters (13,828 feet) above sea level.
Cusco sits at 3,400 meters, the starting point of the trail (Km 82) is at 2,700 meters, and Machu Picchu is located at 2,430 meters.
Throughout the hike, you’ll pass through a variety of microclimates, ranging from the cold Andean highlands to the lush tropical cloud forest.

The Inca Trail requires a moderate level of physical fitness. You’ll be walking between 6 and 9 hours per day, going up and down along stone paths and ancient Inca steps.
You don’t need to be an athlete, but it’s recommended to spend at least two days acclimating in Cusco before starting the trek and to do some light training beforehand.
At Conde Travel, our guides are trained to adapt to the group’s pace and ensure that everyone enjoys the trek.

We recommend bringing a small backpack with the essentials — water, sunscreen, camera, snacks, and rain gear. In addition, Conde Travel offers sleeping bags, trekking poles, and inflatable mattresses for rent at an affordable rate.

Yes, we offer professional, high-quality trekking equipment suited for the conditions of the Inca Trail:

• Trekking poles: USD 20
• Sleeping bag: USD 25
• Additional inflatable mattress: USD 20

Prices are for the entire tour. If you prefer, you are welcome to bring your own equipment.

The best way is to acclimate in Cusco for at least two days before the trek. Drink plenty of water, avoid alcohol and heavy meals. You can also drink coca tea or take coca tablets and get plenty of rest.

If you experience symptoms like a headache or dizziness, let us know right away; our guides are trained to assist in cases of altitude sickness.

We keep our groups small, between 8 and 12 people, to provide more personalized attention.

For every 8 travelers, we include one official guide, and if the group exceeds that number, we add a second guide to ensure safety and constant support.

The average price for the 4-day tour ranges from USD 750 to 890 USD, depending on the season and the services included.

This price covers all permits, meals, transportation, and an official guide. Be cautious with very low prices, as they often mean missing permits, poor treatment of porters, or services that are not included.

More than just a hike, the Inca Trail is a journey through time.

Walking it means following the same paths once taken by the ancient Incas, visiting sacred temples and hidden ruins, and finishing with the magical view of Machu Picchu from the Sun Gate (Inti Punku).

It’s an experience that blends history, culture, nature, and spirituality like no other trek in the world.

After your adventure, we suggest taking a day to rest and then exploring other amazing destinations such as:

• Rainbow Mountain Vinicunca – Full Day (5,200 m)
• Humantay Lake – Full Day (4,200 m)
• Maras, Moray, and the Sacred Valley

The best season is from April to October, when the weather is drier and the landscapes are clearer.

The Inca Trail is closed in February for maintenance and heavy rains, but Machu Picchu remains open all year round.

The hike takes place even in the rain. We recommend bringing a waterproof jacket or poncho and keeping your belongings protected in plastic bags.

Our campsites are well-prepared for rainy conditions, and our team ensures everything stays dry and functional.

No. By law, you can only enter the Inca Trail with an authorized tour operator.

Independent trekking is not allowed. This regulation helps protect the archaeological heritage and ensures the safety of all visitors.