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4D - 3N
4200
10
Group
What is the 4 day Inca Trail ? It is an experience you don’t want to miss. It should inspire some excitement and stir a little sense of wonder in your soul. It is in the top 5 of the most popular excursions in South America and one of the world’s most famous hikes. The hike brings you along ancient paths into Peruvian villages through the Andean highlands. It’s a multi-day hike of 4 days 3 nights to the greatest endpoint in the iconic Machupicchu.
The journey begins bright and early at 4am. We begin by taking a scenic drive to the Inca town of Ollantaytambo. From here we head to the hiking checkpoint at Piskacucho (KM 82). At the checkpoint the ranger will check passport, permits and all relevant discount cards. Now the adventure begins! Embark on the 3rd most popular hike in the world (according to lonely planet). At this point meet our dedicated support staff, including our porters and cooks. Set off on the Classic Inca Trail.
The hike begins on flat terrain along the Vilcanota river. As you walk enjoy the stunning views of the Andes high above you. Feel humbled by your surroundings and the breath taking landscapes. Stop along the way for our first 5-course lunch made by our talented chef, a truely unexpected dining experience in the middle of the mountains. Make our way through the Inca Fortress Huillca Raccay , take a break while the guide gives a brief history on the ancients Incas.
From the Fortress enjoy spectacular views of the vast Inca site of Llactapata and the snowcapped peaks of W´akay Willca. Continuing to Wayllabamba (3,000m/9,842ft) we trek uphill for another 2 hours before reaching the first campsite of Ayapata. On arrival, the porters will have camp already set up and afternoon tea accompanied by a delicious snack will be served. Later, the chef will prepare an abundant and nourishing dinner that’s been made from both local and international ingredients. Settle into your spacious tent and reste for a challenging second day of hiking.
The guide wakes you up with a steaming cup of tea at 5:00am, he will also provide a basin of warm water to freshen up. The chef and his team will serve up a hot and hearty breakfast. You will be served a varity of breakfast options over the days. Look forward to things like pancakes, omelets, fruits, porridge, toast with butter and jam, hot chocolate, various hot teas and coffee. Our sizable breakfast is exactly the right amount of fuel needed to tackle the most challenging day on the Inca Trail. After filling up your water bottle with the boiled water we provide , set out for a day that promises to be the most challenging, but satisfying at the same time.
Begin the day with a steep climb through cloud forests to Llulluchapampa (3800m/12 460ft). Come across llamas and alpacas grazing and drinking from the fresh water streams. After catching your breath, walk up to the famous and exhausting, Dead Women´s Peak (4200m/ 13779ft). This is the highest and most challenging peak of the trail. At the top, you will feel a wonderful sense of achievement. The spectacular views from the top of the hill are absolutely mesmerizing, you could be standing on top of the world.
Take a short rest and some photos before we start the trek down to our lunch spot in Pacaymayu (3 580m/ 11 700ft). This path takes us by calming waters cascading from the tops of the mountain peaks and we cross over well-structured Inca bridges. When we arrive, our hard-working porters will have everything already set up and welcome us with a hot drink, before another 5-course gourmet lunch is served in our dining tent. Later we start to our second peak of the day Runkuraqay (4 000m/ 13 123ft). This section of the trek is usually covered in fog and gives the illusion of being within the clouds.
Descend to the Archeological site of Sayacmarka (3 650m/ 11 975ft), which translates to ´inaccessible town´ in English. Make our way down to camp in Chaquicocha (3 600m/ 11 800ft). At camp enjoy another scrumptious dinner. Enjoy the great views of glaziers as you wind down from the physically challenging day.
Your third day on the Inca Trail is legendary, your guide wakes you up with a hot cup of tea before you head out for a scrumptious hot breakfast at 06:00AM. After, trek on an upward trail to Phuyupatamarca (3 670m/ 12 040ft) which means ¨Town in the Clouds¨. The area borders jungle and see low-lying mist that creates surreal scenery with everything covered in misty cloud. This archeological site has 15 buildings, with 6 of them being ritual water baths. At the top get an panoranic views of the valley, the canyons below and the truely magnificent surrounding landscape.
Moving forward, trek through a cloud forest to the recently discovered agricultural site of Intipata (2 897m/ 9 505ft). This trail takes you through tunnels that the Incas built into the mountain side, with staircases carved directly into the rock. The rest of the day is steep downhill stairs made of rocks can get slippery especially when wet. Boots with good grip and walking poles really come in handy at this point. Recently discovered, Intipata comprises of a vast terraced farming area. It is concluded that it was an important agricultural source for the royalty living at Machu Picchu. See the fully functioning water fountains that were used for irrigation of the terraces.
Continuing on our descent, the weather warms up significantly. This is because of the significant drop in elevation, and also as we are approaching the Amazon Jungle. As we are getting closer to the Inca city of Wiñay Wayna (2 680m/ 8 793ft), the flora becomes more colorful and the mountains are a beautiful lush green. Stop for a well-deserved lunch at Winay Wayna campsite, the last of the trek. Machu Picchu is only a day away.
After lunch we take a very short hike to the ruins of Winay Wayna. This stunning archeological site stands as the most well-preserved Inca Archeological site in South America. It gets its name from an orange orchid on the trail that grows abundantly throughout the year. Your guide will share with you the fascinating history of this site. Enjoy the breathtaking views of snow-capped mountain peaks, the waterfall below and the Urubamba River travelling through the valley. Head back to camp for afternoon tea, followed by our last gourmet dinner, made by our talented chef. The night in this campsite is much warmer. And on a clear night, you can look forward to spectacular star studded night skies. The best thing about our last camp is that you can indulge in a hot shower and be fresh for the photos you will take at the great Citadel of Machu Picchu.
Today is the day, a super early start this morning. Breakfast is served at 4:00am. Say good bye to our superhuman porters and the chef, as they rush to catch the only staff train available. The porters will take your duffel bags back to Aguas Calientes, where we can pick them up.
This morning start with a small but gradual hike to the famous Sun Gate, before reaching the gate pass the notorious steep and narrow gringo steps, we advise to get on your hands and knees to get up the steps. The Sun Gate (2 720m/ 8 924ft) also known as Inti Punku, will give you the first jaw dropping view of the Machu Picchu Citadel (2,400m/7,872 ft). When you arrive at the gate, watch the citadel just as the sun rises behind it, giving the appearance of melted gold. After, walk downhill and enter Machu Picchu from the top at the “House of the Guardians” where all of the famous pictures of Machu Picchu are taken.
Proceed to the control point, where we register and leave any large backpacks or walking poles. The rangers do not allow anyone to take small bags into Machu Picchu, such as camera bags. Walking poles are not allowed because they can damage the stones. Your guide will give you a tour and educate you about the history of the ruins for two hours. See many of the important parts of Machu Picchu.
When you have had your fill of the exceptional views of Machu Picchu, take the bus back down to Aguas Calientes for lunch (not included). Depending on our train departure time, you may also have time for some shopping or sightseeing.
The Expedition Train at 2:55 or 3:20pm will take you back to Ollantaytambo, following the spectacular Urubamba River. You can also see Wiñay Wayna from the train if you look up high on the steep canyon wall! Back at Ollantaytambo, the driver will meet you at the exit from the train station to take you back to your hotel in Cusco in our private vehicle. You can expect to arrive at your hotel by 7:00pm.
Meals included: Breakfast ONLY
Distance: 6kms/3.7mls
Difficulty: Easy
***IMPORTANT:
The Classic Inca Trail to Machu Picchu is available on any date as long as we have a minimum of 2 people and there are permits available. Please check with our office!
| No. OF PEOPLE | PRICE |
| 2 to 5 people | $ 777 USD per person |
| +5 | $757 USD per person |
Orange Nation Peru has Guaranteed and Flexible Departure Dates, we only need a minimum of 2 trekkers and a maximum of 8 for all of our listed tours.
Permits: All visitors who wish to hike the Inca Trail must have a permit. These permits are limited, and it is recommended to book in advance, especially during peak season (May to September).
How to obtain a permit: Permits for the Inca Trail can only be obtained through a licensed tour operator. You cannot obtain a permit directly from the Peruvian government. Tour operators will purchase permits on your behalf, and you must provide your passport information when booking.
IMPORTANT
If your date is sold out it is sold out for all travel agencies, there are not more permits!
We need Inca Trail availability ONLY for the starting date of your trek!
Please read the following information to help answer any questions you may have about our Services and the 4 day Inca Trail to Machu Picchu.
We will pick you up from the Cusco airport and take you to your hotel in Cusco. Please let us know your flight details at least 14 days before arrival. Our representative will be holding an orange sign reading ORANGE Nation outside the arrivals. You must exit the terminal to find our representative as they cannot enter. (Please let us know if your hotel is in the Sacred Valley so we can make the necessary arrangments).
The Briefing will be the night before the trek at 6 pm in our office, which is located at Garcilaso Street 210 Office Nº:213 (2and Floor)
ABSOLUTELY! During the Classic Inca Trail to Machu Picchu your main luggage can be stored at our office or at your hotel, both are free.
FIRST, to book your 4 day Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, we need you to fill out our booking form by clicking on BOOK NOW on our homepage or click here – BOOK NOW.
We will need the following information (FROM EACH PARTICIPANT in your group). This information is necessary to purchase the entrance tickets to Machu Picchu the train tickets:
SECOND, we require a deposit of $211.00 USD per person , in order to purchase your entrance to Machu Picchu and train ticket. You can make you deposit by clicking on the PAYPAL symbol on the top of our home page, or you can click on the PAYPAL symbols on our booking page.
Unfortunately No. Once the Permits have been purchased, the government does not allow any changes. That also includes the departure date. Tickets are also non transferable nor refundable. If you cancel your Classic Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, the deposit is lost!
DEFINITELY! You MUST bring your original passport with the SAME passport number you sent us to book your entrance to Machu Picchu, train ticket, other entrances and reservations. They will check when you enter Machu Picchu and to board the train.
In case you are renewing your passport or changing your name, please send us a COPY of your old passport to secure your permit, and we can change it when we receive a COPY of your new passport for a fee of $25 USD per person. We must have a copy of your old and new passport to make the change. Before you change your passport keep a copy of your old one.
If you do not wish to pay this fee you will need to bring both passports to Peru with you. You can enter Peru with your new passport but you will need to show both passports, old and new to enter Machu Picchu or the train. If you do not have both you will not be allowed to enter into Machu Picchu or get on the train.
Remember to check your current passport to make sure it doesn’t expire within 6 months of your arrival to Peru!!! The Government of Peru is enforcing the existing law that requires all foreign travelers to have a passport valid for a minimum of six months past the time of entry into Peru. Peruvian authorities will deny entry into Peru for travelers not meeting this requirement.
The weather is very unpredictable and always changing in the Andes Mountains, so it is difficult to say with any certainty. We recommend that you be prepared for warm weather, possible rain showers (Orange Nation provides rain ponchos) and a warm jacket in case of cold. We also recommend that you dress in layers so you may take off or put on clothes as needed.
The climate in Cusco has temperatures between 10º – 20º C/ 50º – 68º F, with warm days and cold nights. The best time to hike the Inca Trail is between April and October, when the weather is warm. During June, July and August the nights are very cold, which is why Orange Nation rents good quality 4 season sleeping bags.
The rainy season is during the months of November through March, if you want to hike the Classic Inca Trail to Machu Picchu during this season, bring warm clothes and be prepared for rain but there will be a beautiful landscape and colorful flowers.
The month of February, the Classic Inca Trail to Machu Picchu is closed for safety, repairs and restoration.
The Average weather conditions on the Inca Trail:
If you travel from Lima to Cusco, the effect can be immediate. This lack of oxygen, scientifically known as hypoxia, begins to manifest itself at 7,874 ft (2,399 m) above sea level. That’s why right after landing in Cusco, visitors can feel fatigued and have difficulty walking. Walking one block could feel like walking ten blocks carrying a backpack full of rocks. It is advisable to take it easy on the first day and, if possible, rest the first few hours to help the body acclimatize to the altitude.
How do people feel after a night of drinking? Thirsty! That’s how you’ll feel when you arrive in Cusco. As already stated, the body dehydrates quickly in high altitudes. It is recommended you drink lots of water before and during your trip to Cusco. Also, avoid heavy meals since your stomach takes longer to digest food at high altitudes. A diet of low proteins and high carbs is advisable.
No one knows the effects of high altitude better than indigenous people. Coca is the best natural medicine to combat altitude sickness. It was even considered sacred because of its curative powers and is still used in the same way now as it was in the time of the Incas. It contains iron, vitamins A, B1, B2, and calcium, among other nutrients. Coca makes it easier for your bloodstream to absorb oxygen, suppresses hunger, combats fatigue, headaches and can ease your stomach. If you don’t feel like chewing leaves (which can be bitter and numb your mouth), you can try drinking coca tea, which is most commonly found in the lobby of hotels in Cusco.
The evening before your trek, you will be given a SMALL DUFFEL BAG to pack your clothes for the next four days. Your weight allowance is up to 7kg/15lbs including sleeping bag so 5kg/11lbs. Your team of porters will carry your duffel bag for you together with the food and camping gear. It’s important to be aware that you will not have access to your items in the duffel bag until the end of each day, as the porters will always be ahead of the group. During the trek, you need a day backpack big enough to carry your personal belongings such as a warm jacket, rain jacket, camera, sunscreen, snacks, water, etc. A 30 backpack is sufficient.
The Classic Inca Trail to Machu Picchu is a 42km (24.4 miles) hike through the Andes in the Cusco region. The maximum altitude on the trek is 4,217m / 13,907ft. On the second day of the trek, we climb two mountains. The Trail is fairly difficult, and you should be prepared and healthy before starting. You have to be relatively fit and exercise regularly. In preparation: try walking 15kms in a day or go to the fitness club in the months leading up to the trek. It is also important to be well acclimatized to the altitude. Try to spend at least 2 days in Cusco (3,350m/11,047ft) before starting the trek.
If you’re happy with the services provided, a tip is appreciated. It means a lot to the staff and their families who will take care of you during the tour. It inspires better service and is a major part of the tourism industry across many ORANGE Nation destinations. Of course, you are free to tip more or less what you want, depending on how you feel about the quality of service and the length of your tour.
Yes, we are a local sustainable & responsible tourism operator that incorporates the universal principles of tourism: protect the environment and benefit the local communities respecting their culture and religion. With this in mind, we have trained all our staff to know, understand, and respect the local places and its people.
As a Direct Local Tour operator we provide you with a duffel bag at your briefing and INCLUDE an extra porter who will carry up to 7 kgs or 15 lbs. including your 2.5kg sleeping bag, mattress and extra clothing.
We highly recommend a small backpack 30 – 40 Liters for hiking. A big backpack will not be allowed into Machu Picchu. The remainder of your belongings will be in your duffel bag at camp.
4200
4D - 3N
10
Van, Bus, Train
We're a family-owned Travel Company and Tour Operator located in the heart of the Inca Empire, Cusco, Peru. We create individually customized tours and treks to Peru's most iconic attractions, as well as untouched, off the beaten track locations high in the Andes Mountains.
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Excellent quality at the best price
Quiet Andean night
Unique and little explored routes
Experience the culture up close
Discover why thousands of people around the world trust us to explore the best of Peru.
The Short Inca Trail with José was a once-in-a-lifetime, unforgettable experience. In the days leading up to our trek, he was highly communicative and provided all the details we needed (packing lists, expectations, timing) so everything…
Hace 3 meses
After researching extensively, I chose a Peruvian travel company to guide our Sacred Valley adventure for my husband and I. We booked a full day beginning with Maras and Moray, Ollantaytambo, lunch and Pisac.…
Hace 2 meses
We did the Lares Trek with Orange Nation/ Sam's travel and would highly recommend it. Lares has far less tourists than the inca trail (we saw about 4 groups over the two days initial hike up to the 4800m high point). The views are…
Hace 3 semanas
I had extremely high expectations and they were blown away! Our guide Rolando was an absolute legend. You can tell he is looked up to by all the other guides in the industry. He speaks multiple languages, connects deeply with each hiker,…
Hace 5 meses
Two of us did the 2 days Lares trek + 1 day Inca Trail, with a tour of Machu Picchu. We were blown away by the friendliness, knowledge, and kindness showed by both of our guides - Jorge and Carlos. We booked a group tour, but this ended up…
Hace 3 meses
Me and my friend did the 4 day Inca trail with Sam travel Peru, our tour guide was Juan Carlos, he has been doing tours to matchu pichu for over 20 years and his knowledge and expertise was amazing. I would recommend to anyone to as for him…
Hace 5 meses
We did the 2 day Inca trail to Machu Picchu. Our guide was Ray and Michael. It was really great - Ray was amazing and was really passionate about the place and told us loads of amazing stories. We had the perfect weather and even the packed…
Hace 3 meses
Amazing trip across 3 days with Jose! A massive thanks and shout out to our guide, he enriched the entire experience with his massive background of history of the culture and the land…
Hace 5 meses
Me and my Wife did the 5 day Inca trail with Sam Travel in April 2026. Our guide Henry and the incredible team of Porters and our Chef made the trip one of a lifetime. I cannot say enough good things about this group as they went over and…
Hace 3 meses
We were short on time during our trip to Peru, so we decided to do the 1-day Inca Trail to Machu Picchu. Everything was very well organised. We were collected from our hotel and taken to the train, where our journey to the trail began. The first part of the hike was a bit challenging, but it was absolutely worth it. The views of the mountains and the surrounding nature were breathtaking. Reaching the Sun Gate and seeing Machu Picchu for the first time was incredible. After the tour, we were taken back by train and dropped off at our hotel. I would highly recommend this hike to anyone visiting Peru, especially if you're short on time but still want to experience the Inca Trail. I also highly recommend our guide, Antonio. He was brilliant, incredibly knowledgeable, and shared so much interesting information about Machu Picchu, its history, and the local flora throughout the trek. He also allowed us to take breaks whenever we needed them.
Written August 6, 2026
I did the Rainbow Mountain tour, and I was the only one in the group who walked up the mountain. My guide Henry stayed with me the whole way, encouraging me and taking lots of photos along the trail. A truly great experience.
Written July 31, 2026
We had an amazing time with Henry our guide on our trek to Rainbow Mountian. With an early pick we left Cusco for the long car ride to Rainbow mountain with a quick stop for breakfast. When we got there Henry helped us reserve horses (highly recommend) and we started towards the mountain. The terrain, snow capped mountains and sediment settlement are a treat to see but it is worth the 10 extra minutes to the top. Because we had the horses we were able to take a long time at the top to take in all of the beautiful wonders. Henry allowed us time to explore and gave us wonderful information about how this beautiful wonder was formed. We definitely got more than our money's worth out of this gem!
Written July 29, 2026
Carlos Estrada was an excellent guide, very knowledgeable and organized! Made our trip easy.
Written July 19, 2026
I had an amazing experience touring Sacred Valley and Machu Pichu with our tour guide, Carlos Estrada. He was quite helpful and knew a lot about everything. I recommend him and this tour!
Written July 19, 2026
Had an awesome day out to Rainbow Mountain with our guide Cesar Siccos! He was full of encouragement and positive energy and we made it to the top! Thank you, Cesar!
Written July 16, 2026
Following a great 2-day Inca Trail experience with SAM Travel, I signed up for the one-day Rainbow Mountain + Red Valley trek. Once again our group was small, just 4 people. Junior was our guide - he was friendly and knowledgeable. He seamlessly adjusted to our request for an earlier start time to beat the crowds, and also managed varying group member speeds / fitness levels well. Another positive experience with SAM Travel - highly recommend booking with them, especially if you are a solo traveler.
Written July 16, 2026
Rainbow mountain hike provided for gorgeous views, bunch of alpaca. At up to 5000 meters it provided for a healthy challenge even if the profile does not look that impressive…. Our guide - Cesar Siccos - was with us the whole way and provided the necessary support to get over the challenge. Great day out.
Written July 15, 2026
My trip to the rainbow mountain with my tour guide Siccos was incredible. Siccos was very energetic and kept our spirits high. I would highly recommend this hike to anyone.
Written July 15, 2026
