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Inca Trail Classic 4D / 3N

Created with Sketch. Inca Trail, Machu Picchu, Peru
Ranking
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Duration

4D/3N

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Tour Type

Specific Tour

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Group Size

12 people

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Languages

Español, Ingles

Overview

Inca Trail Classic 4D / 3N, There is only one classic Inca Trail Classic to Machu Picchu and it is the most sought after trek in Peru. Rooted in Inca heritage, this centuries-old path gives hikers the chance to walk in the footsteps of pre-Columbian royalty. Up mountain passes and down into humid cloud forest valleys, the final destination is majestic Machu Picchu.

The trail begins in the Sacred Valley and continues over varied terrain for the next 3 days. You will see archaeological sites and a remarkable diversity of Andean landscapes, all building up to the final grand entrance through the Sun Gate.

Tour Inca Trail Classic 4D / 3N

    • HIGHEST MOUNTAIN PASS13,828 ft (4,215 m)
    • TEMPERATUREDaytime: 68 to 73°F (20 to 23°C) Nighttime: 30 to 45°F (-1 to 7°C) Inca Trail Classic.
    • CLIMATE The Inca Trail traverses different climates: Temperate highlands outside of the Sacred Valley; Cold, arid puna at the highest altitudes; and warm, humid, cloud forest valleys close to Machu Picchu.
    • DRY SEASON From June to August  Days are sunny and nights are very cold. Vegetation is much less abundant but the trail is drier and easier to hike.
    • WET SEASON From November to March Wet season days almost always bring drizzle or rain. Be prepared to get soaked and be cautious when the trail gets slippery. Nearby mountains are usually flanked by mist and the region’s diverse flora is in full bloom. The Inca Trail Classic is closed in February for maintenance.Weather during the shoulder months is variable and it's common to experience all four seasons in one day. Rain gear for the trek and thermal layers for the nights are recommended.
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    Activities: Trekking Adventure
    Difficulty Levels: 3 of 5
    Maximum Altitude: 4200 masl. / 13779 ft.
    Accommodation: 3 Days Camping
    Departures Day: Daily Departures (subject to availability).
    Starts: Pick up at your accommodation in Cusco around 4:30 AM
    Ends: Drop-off at your accommodation in Cusco around 9:45 PM

Itinerary

DAY 1 : Cusco – Km 82 – Wayllabamba – Ayapata
Today, begins your adventure of a lifetime with the Classic Inca Trail. We will pick you up from your hotel in our private van at 4:30am. From there, we travel to Piskacucho, which is known as kilometer 82, where the Classic Inca Trail begins. Along the way, we stop for breakfast in Ollantaytambo at 6:30-7am to load up on energy for our start of the trail. (Breakfast is not included)

Upon arrival at kilometer 82 (8:30am), we will have some time to organize ourselves by using the restrooms, applying sunscreen, insect repellent, etc. Once at the Inca Trail checkpoint, be ready to show your entrance tickets, passports and (if paying a student rate) your student card.

At the start of the trail (2,720m/8,923ft) we will cross the Vilcanota River and follow its route towards the right. The first day is relatively easy, a warm-up along the Inca flat terrain. There are great views of the Inca Fortress (Huillca Raccay), the vast and incredible Inca site of Llactapata, (officially called Patallacta), the Urubamba mountain range that divides the jungle, the Andes Mountains, and the beautiful snow-capped peak of W’akay Willca (5,860m/19,225ft) known in books as Veronica.

Our first campsite is in Ayapata, an hour and a half up towards the small village of Wayllabamba (3,000m/9,842ft) located in the temperate green valley of the same name. Temperatures at night are around 5ºC depending on the month.

During the day, we will enjoy spectacular views of the snow-capped mountains Veronica, (5,860m/19,337ft), the lush green valley around us and a myriad of flora and fauna.

Shuttle to Ollantaytambo Kilometer 82: 2½ hour by bus from Cusco.
Walking Distance: 12km. / 7.5mile.
Trekking Time: 5½ to 6 hour approximately.
Climate: Moderate
Acomodation: Camping.
Meals: Lunch, Dinner.
Maximum Altitude: 2954 masl. / 9694 ft.
Minimum Altitude: 2670 masl. / 8761 ft.
DAY 2 : Ayapata – Pass – Paqaymayu – Chaquicoccha
After waking up at 5 to 5:30am and enjoying a hot breakfast, we start a steep ascent towards the highest pass, Abra de Warrmihuañusca or Dead Woman’s Pass at (4,200m/13,779ft). On this day, you will feel a real sense of achievement upon reaching the top! After a well-deserved rest, we begin the descent towards our lunch spot, which is located at Pacaymayu (3,550m/11,646ft).

On our way up towards the pass, we will be able to see an array of hummingbirds and a combination of other species of birds. There will be plenty of time to appreciate the incredible variety of native plants and the Polylepis or Q’ueuña trees, which grow in the astonishing cloud forest located at (3,650m/11,972ft)!

After lunch, begins the second two-hour steep climb towards Runkuraqay pass (almost 4,000m/13,123ft). We arrive at our campsite by 5 pm. Temperatures at this campsite are around 4ºC during the night.

Hiking distance: 13 km / 8.1 miles
Hiking time: 6½ to 7 hour approximately.
Climate: hot in the day and warm in the night.
Acomodation: Camping.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.
Maximum Altitude: 4200 masl / 13779 ft.
Minimum Altitude: 2954 masl / 9694 ft.
DAY 3 : Ch’aqicocha – Phuyupatamarca – Wiñay Wayna
This is the most impressive day by far so keep this in mind as you ascend on day three! We wake up for breakfast at 6am and start the day with a gentle climb towards the archaeological site of ‘Phuyupatamarca’ (meaning ‘Town in the Clouds’). Here, we reach the third highest point along the Inca trail (3,680m/12,073ft). The views of the mountains, canyons and surrounding areas are spectacular!

The Inca site of Phuyupatamarca, is located a few minutes’ walk from the third pass. After visiting this site, we continue walking down 3,000 stairs through the cloud forest to the impressive agricultural Incan site of Intipata. After taking some time to visit this site, we continue until we arrive at our third campsite Wiñay Wayna (2,680m/8,792ft). Today, we will only walk about 4 to 5 hours. We arrive at camp by lunchtime! Temperatures during the night are about 12º C.

A short walk from our campsite is the famous Incan site of ‘Wiñay Wayna’ which means `Forever Young` in Quechua. It is named after a special orchid which grows abundantly in the area.

Hiking distance: 16 km / 9.95 miles
Hiking time: 8 hour approximately.
Climate: hot in the day and warm in the night.
Acomodation: Camping.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.
Maximum Altitude: 3900 masl / 12500 ft.
Minimum Altitude: 2650 masl / 8700 ft.
DAY 4: Wiñay Wayna – Machu Picchu – Cusco
At around 4:00am, it is time to wake up, have breakfast and start day 4 on the Inca trail to get to Machu Picchu on time. This is the final part of your journey, arriving by 6:00am to reach the Sun Gate (also known as Inti Punku). At that point, the majestic Machu Picchu Citadel will be in front of us with its intense beauty – an incredible sight for all to see. At this point, we walk downhill towards Machu Picchu Citadel (2,400m/7,872 ft.). After walking 40 minutes, we enter the citadel from the top through the “House of the Guardians”. From there, we proceed towards the control point, where we register and leave our backpacks. You are only allowed to take small bags into the citadel, such as camera bags. Your professional guide will direct you throughout the astounding ruins and its main streets. You can wander around the town squares as well as climb the intricately carved stone stairways. Machu Picchu is considered as the world’s spiritual center by esoteric wisdom. Once the guided tour is over, you will have free time to explore the site on your own.

You will also have time to indulge in a few of the following activities on your own if you choose (not included in the price)

Climb up Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain and appreciate the beauty and magnificence of Machu Picchu from there.
Other optional activities in Aguas Calientes include a visit to the local museum or bathe in the hot springs.
You will descend to Aguas Calientes by bus (included) and will have time to have lunch on your own. We board the Expedition train by 6:18pm to head towards the Ollantaytambo Train Station. This is where you will meet our private van and be transferred to your hotel in Cusco arriving around 9:45pm.


Distance Travelled: 6 Km. / 3.7 mile
Hiking time: 3 to 4 hours approximately.
Machu Picchu guided tour: 2½ hour.
Climate: tropical warm.
Shuttle to Cusco:3 hours by train and bus from Aguas Calientes to Cusco.
Meals: Breakfast.
Maximum Altitude: 2429 masl / 7972 ft.
Minimum Altitude: 2040 masl / 6692 ft.

What is Included?

  • Transfer from the airport to your hotel (Cusco only)
  • Briefing at our office; It will be done the night before your trek at 6:00pm
  • Hotel pick up
  • Private transportation from Cusco to Piscacucho (company van)
  • Extra porter for your belongings(you will need only a day backpack to carry what you will need during day)!
  • 4 season Eureka Timberline Tents, (Large & Comfortable) please see equipment
  • Thick Comfortable Foam Mattresses
  • Professional English speaking guides experienced in trekking
  • Meals as indicated in the itinerary (optional: vegetarian or other dietary needs upon request)
  • First-aid kit including emergency oxygen tank
  • Porter to carry tents, food and cooking equipment
  • Hot water for washing purposes
  • Boiled water to fill in your bottles
  • Expedition Tourist Train from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo and private transportation to Cusco(company van)
  • Permit to the Classic Inca trail & Entrance ticket to Machu Picchu Archaeological Complex
  • Private Toilet Tent With a Seat on the Toilet – Only For Our Group
  • 2 Hour Guided tour in Machu Picchu
  • Bus ticket from Machu Picchu to Aguas Calientes
  • Dining and cooking tents with tables and chairs
  • Chef and cooking equipment
  • Pillow
  • Rain Ponchos
  • Afternoon Tea time
  • Day pack rain covers

Not Included:

  • Wayna Picchu: $75 USD and Machu Picchu Mountain$70 USD – needs to be booked in advance, if you would like to add an extra hike. Please let us know at the time of booking.
  • First breakfast and last lunch – We will stop at Ollantaytambo for the first breakfast and have the last lunch at Aguas Calientes after the tour of Machu Picchu.
  • VISTADOME Train -$57 USD per person extra.(RETURN ONLY)
  • Tips for the crew, guide, cook and porters.

Inca Trail 4 Days Tour's Location

Created with Sketch. Inca Trail, Machu Picchu, Peru

Tour Map Inca Trail Classic 4D / 3N

Inca Trail 4 Days FAQs

How far in advance do I need to make a trek reservation?
As far in advance as possible. The government has strictly limited the number of people allowed on the Inca Trail (permits are issued to about 200 trekkers per day plus 300 porters). We therefore recommend that you try to make your Inca trail reservation as far in advance as possible as soon as you know the dates of your international flights (check that your passport isn't about to expire). The list of available trek spaces is shown on our Inca Trail Prices & Services page and is updated 2 or 3 times a week. As long as dates are shown available then you can make a trek booking. We have included recommendations below, as a guide as to when to make a trek booking.

Departure date:

October 2019 - Fully booked
November 2019 - Fully booked

2020 - We'll start taking bookings as from August 2019
April 2020 - Book Aug 2019
May 2020 - Book Aug 2019
June 2020 - Book Aug 2019
July 2020 - Book Sept 2019
August 2020 - Book Sept 2019
September 2020 - Book Sept 2019

* note that the trek permits for departures in 2020 probably won't go on sale until October 2019
Is the trek difficult, do I need to be fit?
The Inca Trail is a 43km (27 mile) hike through mountainous regions involving trekking for 5-7 hours at high altitude and over rough terrain. The maximum altitude reached on the trek is 4200m above sea level. On the second day of the trek we ascend 1200m. Make no mistake, the Inca Trail is a fairly difficult trek and you should be well prepared and healthy prior to starting it. You should be fit and take regular exercise. Try walking 15km in a day or go to the gym in the months leading up to the trek. It is also important to be well acclimatized to the altitude. Try to spend 2 or 3 days in Cusco (3400m) prior to starting the trek. This time can be put to good use visiting the city of Cusco, nearby Inca ruins and the Sacred Valley of the Incas. The good news is that virtually everyone in the last few years who started the trek finished it ! Only a handful have had to turn back. (see tips on staying healthy on the trail below). If you do not take regular exercise or have a heart, respiratory, knee or back problem do not consider doing the trek.
Is there a minimum or maximum age limit for the Inca Trail trek
There is no government restriction on the age limit for the Inca Trail. However as a responsible trekking company Peru Treks does not accept reservations for children under the age of 8 years old and adults over 67 years old. All children under 18 years old must also be accompanied by an adult. We require that all of our trekkers over 64 years old hire the service of an extra half porter (6kg). Trekkers over 64 years old must also consult with their doctor prior to starting the trek to check that they are suitably fit to participate. They must follow their doctors recommendations even if this means cancelling their trek booking. We also recommend that clients over 64 years old arrive in Cusco at least 3 days prior to starting the trek (rather than the usual 2 days). We recommend that all clients over 59 years old should talk to their doctor well in advance about how best to plan for the trek and also to ensure that their travel insurance covers such adventure activities. We do not accept bookings from single trekkers over 60 years old (i.e. trekkers travelling on their own) and group bookings where everyone in the group is over 64 years old.
I would like to do the trek with my friends, can I book now and my friends book later?
We often have two or more group departing on the same date so the only way to ensure that you are booked in the same group as your friends is for you all to book together at the same time. If you book now we may not have spaces in our group for your friends if they book later and you won't be able to cancel your booking without losing your trek deposit. If you do have friends who want to join the group later then you must let us know and ask your friends to mention that they want to be placed in your group when they make a booking.
Can I have vegetarian meals, vegan, special meals?
We offer standard meals as well as a vegetarian meal option. Just let us know if you want vegetarian meals when you book your trek.

Vegetarian meals have no red meat, chicken or fish. We will assume that eggs and dairy are OK. We don't cater specifically for vegans as it can get too complicated for our cooks (remember they are cooking in a tent). Most of our main meals in the evening are served as a buffet service so you can always leave what you don't like. If there is a particular food that you don't like (i.e. tomatoes, onions, mushrooms etc) we will ask the cook to do his best to leave them out of the dish but we cannot guarantee this. We can also cater for lactose-intolerant and gluten free diets (mild reactions only, no life threatening allergies accepted- see below). We reserve the right not to accept a trek booking based upon dietary requirements, this may be because we already have several people already booked requiring special meals and don't want to make life too difficult for our cooks. Thanks for you understanding in this matter.

Meal options:
Standard (no dietary requirements, eats everything),
Vegetarian,
No red meat (chicken & fish ok)
No fish (red meat and chicken ok)
Lactose-free (mild reactions only)
Gluten free (mild reactions only)

Unfortunately we don't offer a combination of the above i.e. we don't accept vegetarian AND Gluten-free for example.
I have a food allergy, can this be catered for?
We have plenty of clients who have allergies to nuts, wheat, etc. Please give us details of your allergy at the time of booking. Please indicate the nature of the reaction and what type of medicines you have to take in an emergency. Clients with an allergy must be accompanied by a friend on the trek who is aware of your allergy and the location of any required medicines. We do not accept clients with very severe or life-threatening allergies. Due to the nature of the remote geographical location of the trail and the lack of suitable nearby medical facilities Peru Treks will not accept any responsibility, either directly or indirectly, for any problems due to your special medical/dietary requirements. We suggest that you to check with your doctor before booking the trek.
I have asthma / diabetes / another medical condition. Can I still do the trek?
You must disclose at the time of booking any medical condition that could affect your ability to do the Inca Trail trek. Peru Treks reserves the right not to accept a trek booking if we feel that a medical condition may put your life or the lives of any of our trekking staff or other clients at risk on the trek. People with heart conditions, knee problems, severe asthma or pregnant should not participate in the trek. People with mild asthma / diabetes will have to consult their doctors and follow their doctor's advice. They will also be required to be accompanied by a trekking companion on the trek at all times who will trek at their sides and be familiar with any medicines required in case of an emergency. Peru Treks reserved the right to cancel the trek booking of a client if the client has not fully disclosed at the time of making a booking a medical condition that may pose a risk to the health of the client and/or other trekkers. No refunds will be given in this instance.

Due to the nature of the remote geographical location of the trail and the lack of suitable nearby medical facilities along the trail Peru Treks will not accept any responsibility, either directly or indirectly, for any problems due to your special dietary requirements / medical condition. Clients proceed at their own risk. We suggest that you check with your doctor before booking the trek.
When do I have to arrive in Cusco and come to your office?
We require everyone to be in Cusco for at least 2 nights prior to starting the trek, although 3 nights is even better. You must pay your trek balance at least 2 days before trek departure. For example if your trek departs on a Monday you must come to our office before 7.30 pm on Saturday to pay the trek balance. This ensures that everyone in the group is well acclimatized to the high altitude before starting the trek. Please note the trek balance needs to be paid in Cusco and cannot be paid in advance of your arrival.
What happens if my flight/bus is delayed and I am not able to get to the office?
If you fail to pay the trek balance on time Peru Treks reserves the right to cancel your trek booking as indicated in our trek booking terms and conditions. All clients must plan to arrive in Cusco so that they are able to get to our office before 7.30pm at least 2 days before trek departure. We understand that flights sometimes get delayed so we treat each situation on a case by case basis and are usually sympathetic to genuine cases. If you are unable to make it to the office in time then please call our office as soon as possible. We might be able to make arrangements for a guide to come to your hotel later in the evening (US$25 out of hours call out fee). If you decide to participate in the trek without the recommended period of 2 nights acclimatization to the high altitude then you do so at your own risk.
What do I need to bring on the trek?
Backpack, sleeping bag, double-thickness foam mattress (we will provide you with this but you have to carry it, it weighs approx 1kg), rain jacket, strong suitable footwear, one complete change of clothing, sweater, jacket (something warm), water bottle (metal or nalgene type) and water purification tablets (for emergency use), LED flashlight, broad-brim or peaked cap, sunblock, insect repellent, toiletries and toilet paper, selection of small snacks, chocolate, dried fruit, biscuits etc, camera and spare batteries (nowhere to charge your camera during the trek). For your own personal hygiene we also recommend that you bring a small bottle of anti-bacterial hand gel to clean your hands each time after using the camp toilets and before eating any snacks / meals. You also have to bring your original passport with you on the trek, with the same passport number you originally made your reservation with, otherwise you will be unable to go on the trek. Photocopies are no longer acceptable. Bring some money for bottle water, snacks, tips, souvenirs - more details in our trek briefing sheet

We will buy your Inca Trail trek permit using the names & passport numbers that you send us with your trek booking application. You must bring these same passports with you to Cusco and take them on the Inca Trail. If the name or number in your passport is different from the name and number on the trek permit, the government authorities will not allow you to start the trek and you will not be entitled to a refund. If you plan to renew your passport between making the trek booking and actually starting the trek please see the section below about Frequently Asked Questions relating to passport numbers. If you make a trek booking at the student price you must send us a copy of your ISIC card at the time you pay the trek deposit. If you fail to bring your ISIC card on the trek the government authorities will not allow you to start the trek. You will not be given the opportunity to pay the extra difference in price and you will not be entitled to a refund. These are government regulations and apply to ALL licensed Inca Trail tour operators.
What do I need to carry?
Unless you hire an extra 'half of a porter' you will need to carry all of the above personal items. We include porters to carry all the other items such as tents, food and cooking equipment.
Do I need to bring walking boots?
Walking boots are recommended as they provide support to the ankle which reduces the risk of injury especially when trekking in the wet season (December - March). However it is important that your boots are comfortable and well worn-in and not brand new. Many people prefer to trek in tennis shoes but extra care should be taken since they do not support the ankle. We do not recommend trekking in sandals or using new boots or hiring boots prior to the trek. Make sure the shoes are sturdy enough for the duration of the trek and will not fall apart.
Can I use trekking poles / walking sticks on the Inca Trail? Do you hire them?
Many people like to hike with trekking poles or walking sticks. This is fine as long as the poles will not cause damage to the stone paving along the Inca Trail. If the trekking poles have metal spikes then these must be protected by rubber tips. We recommend bringing some spare rubber tips with you. Rubber protectors can also be bought in several shops in Cusco. Metal trekking poles can also be hired in many equipment hire shops in Cusco for about US$10 for the 4 day trek. Peru Treks often have poles for hire in our office.
Where can I store the bags that I do not need to take on the Inca Trail?
Any bags that you don't need to take on the Inca trail can be left at your hotel in Cusco. Nearly all hotels have a luggage deposit and rarely charge for this service as long as you are returning to the hotel after the trek. You can also leave valuables in the hotel safe, but remember to bring your passport and some emergency money. We do not store clients luggage or valuables in our office.
Should I hire an extra porter?
About 50% of the group hire the services of an extra porter to carry their personal items. A 'half porter' can be hired for the 4 day trek for US$85 (2018) This price includes porters entrance fees, meals, transport and wages. If you hire the services of a half porter you can give him a maximum of 6kg (13lbs) to carry which is usually sufficient for your sleeping bag (about 2.5kg), mattress (1 kg) and change of clothes (about 2.5kg). However the porter will not walk at your side during the trek so you will still need to bring a day pack to carry essential items such as water, snacks, camera, warm sweater and rain jacket. When you pay the trek balance in our office in Cusco we will give you a duffle bag so that you can put your items in that, which you will give to the porter on the day of the trek.
Can I wait until Cusco to hire an extra porter ('half porter')?
No. The restrictions on the number of people permitted on the Inca trail includes porters. Porters also have to pay a trek entrance fee (about US$18) and their tickets need to be booked in advance. If you want to hire the services of a half porter (maximum 6kg) then you must let us know at the time you make your trek booking. Unfortunately if you feel weakened by the effects of the altitude when you arrive in Cusco and feel it necessary to hire a porter at the last minute the new regulations make it impossible for us to arrange this unless we have had a cancellation in the group so it may be worth asking when you come to our office if you wan this service. On the trek itself the guide can often help you find "unofficial porters" who live at Wayllabamba (first campsite) who can help you with your equipment from Wayllabamba up to the top of the first pass (the most difficult section of the trail). These porters charge between US$35 and US$50 for their services but they cannot always be relied upon and there is no official rate. Years of desperate trekkers willing to pay anything for someone to carry their bags have ruined it for other visitors. At times of high demand these prices can often be hugely inflated. Peru Treks cannot accept responsibility for the services provided by these porters. Hiring an extra porter with Peru Treks for the full length of the Inca Trail offers much better value and the porters working conditions and loads are strictly controlled.
How many porters and trekking staff are in the group?
Peru Treks is committed to looking after our porters and our trekking weights are carefully calculated so that our porters are not overloaded. The group sizes given below show the absolute minimum number of porters that we will provide for each group. As a professional company we will guarantee these numbers. Obviously we will use extra porters if any of our clients decide to hire the services of an extra half porter up until the maximum number of porters per group permitted by the government. This is why we limit each client to a maximum of just a half of a porter i.e. maximum 6kg.

Group sizes:
04 clients + 1 guide + 1 cook + 09 porters (max 09 porters permitted)
05 clients + 1 guide + 1 cook + 10 porters (max 10 porters permitted)
06 clients + 1 guide + 1 cook + 10 porters + 1 extra porter if required (max 11 porters permitted)
07 clients + 1 guide + 1 cook + 11 porters + 1 extra porter if required (max 12 porters permitted)
08 clients + 1 guide + 1 cook + 11 porters + up to 2 extra porters if required (max 13 porters permitted)
09 clients + 1 guide + 1 assistant guide + 1 cook + 12 porters + 2 extra porters if required (max 14 porters permitted)
10 clients + 1 guide + 1 assistant guide + 1 cook + 13 porters + 2 extra porters if required (max 15 porters permitted)
11 clients + 1 guide + 1 assistant guide + 1 cook + 14 porters + 2 extra porters if required (max 16 porters permitted)
12 clients + 1 guide + 1 assistant guide + 1 cook + 14 porters + 3 extra porters if required (max 17 porters permitted)
13 clients + 1 guide + 1 assistant guide + 1 cook + 15 porters + 3 extra porters if required (max 18 porters permitted)
14 clients + 1 guide + 1 assistant guide + 1 cook + 16 porters + 3 extra porters if required (max 19 porters permitted)
15 clients + 1 guide + 1 assistant guide + 1 cook + 17 porters + 3 extra porters if required (max 20 porters permitted)
16 clients + 1 guide + 1 assistant guide + 1 cook + 17 porters + 4 extra porters if required (max 21 porters permitted)
Do Peru Treks care for their porters?
As from July 2019 we have increased our porters pay from 215 to 240 Soles (60.00 Soles per day) which is 30% more than the porters legal minimum wage which most porters working for other companies earn on the Inca Trail. to Machupicchu has always been in the top five companies paying their porters well.

By Western standards this wage obviously appears to be low, however wages have to be seen in relation to what other people earn in Peru. Most of our porters depart on the Inca Trail at least 4 times a month (16 days work) earning about 1040 Soles ( 4 x 230 Soles plus tips of about 120 Soles). This is about the same wage of a professional school teacher in Cusco who earn between 1000 and 1200 Soles for working 22 days per month. Teachers in the villages earn much less than this, some as little as 900 Soles per month. It should be noted that teachers have to study for a minimum of 5 years at a university or institute and often have to work the first couple of years for wages between 600 and 800 Soles per month!! A master tradesman such as a carpenter may charge about 60 Soles per day for his services and a labourer will charge about 40 Soles. A farmer in the villages earn about 20 Soles per day so a porter can earn about the same as a village school teacher and has enough left over to pay a neighbour to work his fields while he is away on the trail. Most porters are land owners and do not pay rent, so their outgoings are fairly minimal. So on the whole if porters are paid the legal wage they are not badly off compared to other professions. Even though the Porter Law states trekking companies should pay their porters 45 Soles per day only about 70% of the trekking companies are actually complying with this requirement. Some trekking companies are still paying their porters as low as 35 Soles per day and getting their porters to sign receipts for 45 Soles per day!! Many porters feel that they cannot complain or they will be sacked and even put the jobs of their fellow workers in jeopardy.
What is the weather like on the trek?
The best time to do the trek is between mid-April and the end of October when the weather is typically dry and sunny. The driest months are June, July & August which is also winter in Peru when you can expect temperatures to drop to around freezing in the early hours of the morning. January, February and March are summertime in Peru but in Cusco and on the Inca Trail this also corresponds with the wet season.
How warm are the sleeping bags that your rent?
Our sleeping bags are rated to temperatures as low as -10°C but are more suitable for temperatures of about -5°C. Since you won't find temperatures as low as this on the Inca Trail we rate them as very warm and cosy! We charge US$25 per person for the 4 day/3 night trek. We will give you the sleeping bag one day in advance so you can try it out. If there are any problems just let us know when we come to pick you up from your hotel. On the morning of the 4th day of the trek the cook has instructions to collect all the sleeping bags and bring them back to the office. After renting out our standard sleeping bags 15 times we give them to our porters to use. Our sleeping bags are synthetic (easily washed) and weigh 2.5kg. We do not provide down-filled sleeping bags because they can't be washed after each use. There are several equipment rental shops in Cusco is you need to rent down-filled bags.
Are there toilets on the Inca Trail?
Toilets have been built along the Inca trail including all of the major campsites. This has helped a lot to improve sanitary conditions on the trail although conditions are still not always perfect. Each toilet block has cold running water. We recommend that you bring hand-sanitizer to use after visiting the public toilets. Every evening we will provide you with a bowl of warm water to wash with. There is a S/.1 charge to use the toilets in the Wayllabamba district (1 day of trek) as these toilets have been built on land owned by the community. However these toilets are usually much better maintained than the government ones.
What is the maximum group size?
The maximum size of our Inca Trail 4 day group service is 16 persons. For groups of over 8 persons we also employ an assistant guide to help out (the assistant guide is a fully qualified guide but may lack some of the experience of the main guide or still need to improve his/her English skills.
Is there a minimum group size?
We require a minimum group size of just 4 persons to depart. During the last 10 years Peru Treks has always managed to meet the minimum group size for ALL of our departure dates and has never had to cancel any group departures.

If in the event that we do not reach the minimum required number of persons we will try to offer you an alternative trek date or refund your trek deposit in full. As mentioned before, we hope this will be a very unlikely event and during the last 10 years Peru Treks has managed to meet the minimum group size for ALL of our departure dates and has never had to cancel any group departures.
What do we do for water along the Inca Trail?
Bottled mineral water can be taken from Cusco, bought at the start of the trek (km82), at Wayllabamba (our first campsite), at several places between Wayllabamba and the first pass on the second day and at Machu Picchu. Bottled water is more expensive than in Cusco and a large bottle can cost between S/.15 & S/.20 depending on how far away it is from the start of the trek (someone has to carry it to the point of sale). Our cook will normally be able to provide you with boiled water at breakfast, lunch and evening meal from day two evening onwards. Most people are fine with drinking just bottled and boiled water. However there may be occasions when you have to fill up your water bottled from a small stream or spring along the trail so it is always recommended to bring a few purification tablets for EMERGENCY USE (probably 4 or 5 tablets should be sufficient for the total trek). Although water from the streams or springs may look clear it is often contaminated by animals and farming communities living upstream. Always use sterilizing tablets prior to drinking it and follow the instructions carefully as they may differ from those given below. It can sometimes be difficult finding sterilization tablets in Cusco so we recommend that you bring some from home. After putting the purification tablet in your water bottle wait 30 minutes and then turn your bottle upside down and loosen the cap so a trickle of water runs out. Wait another 60 minutes. This will ensure that the neck of the bottle is also fully sterilized. We have had several instances of trekkers becoming sick by insufficiently purifying river water, we advise drinking only bottled water and boiled & filtered water provided by our cooks and bottled water wherever possible.
If I am travelling alone can I have my own tent?
If you are travelling alone and are willing to share a tent with a member of the same sex, then there is no additional cost. If, however, you would like your own tent then there is an additional supplement of US$40.
Can you guarantee that the group will camp at Wiñay Wayna?
Wiñay Wayna is the campsite closest to Machu Picchu, so it is everybody's favourite campsite. Wiñay Wayna is about a 2 hour trek to Machu Picchu so it allows the group to arrive at Machu Picchu very early in the morning. However there is not enough space at Wiñay Wayna for all the Inca Trail groups. The next nearest campsite is Phuyupatamarca which is a 5 hour trek to Machu Picchu and results in the group arriving at around 10am. In previous years the campsites were allocated on a first-come-first-served basis and we were lucky to be allocated Winay Wayna more than 95% of the time. However in 2018 the government has changed the allocation system and the campsites will be allocated just a few days before trek departure with priority camping at Winay Wayna going to the larger groups rather than the smaller private groups. This suits Peru Treks fine and we hope to be allocated Wiñay Wayna most of the time but we can't guarantee this and may have to camp at Phuyupatamarca on occasions. During the wet season the Wiñay Wayna campsite is sometimes closed due to risk of landslides so Phuyupatamarca will be our official alternative - for more info on possible campsite closures see question 41 below.
When do you we arrive at Machu Picchu and what time do we have to leave?
Our Inca Trail group typically arrives at the Sun Gate (Inti Punku) around 07.15 - 07.30 hopefully in time to see the first rays of sun light up Machu Picchu below (dependent on weather conditions). This assumes that the group is allocated Winay Wayna campsite which is the campsite nearest to Machu Picchu (for more info on campsite allocation see question 26 above)

It's a 20 minute walk from the Sun Gate down to Machu Picchu. The group will meet up at the Caretakers Hut which is the name given to a Inca stone building that overlooks the ruins. Its the place from where you can take the classic photos of Machu Picchu (see Q28 below). The hut is surrounded by terraces so there's plenty of space for all the groups to meet with their guides and take their compulsory group photos and Machu Picchu selfies! By about 08:30 the group will then have to descend to the main entrance where you place your large backpacks in a luggage deposit (small fee S/.5) and where you can use the toilets or have a coffee. The group then re-enters Machu Picchu at around 09:00 and will have a guided tour of the ruins which takes about 1.5 hours. There are no time restrictions for visitors entering Machu Picchu via the Inca Trail. You can stay as long as you want. However most people are ready to leave by around 1pm and head down to the nearby village of Aguas Calientes to have lunch. For more details see our Inca Trail itinerary Day 4.
Where do I take the classic Machu Picchu photo from?
Everyone in the group will have plenty of time to take the classic Machu Picchu shot which is obviously dependent on the weather. This viewpoint is one of the first places we will visit when we arrive at Machu Picchu and is close to a place called the Inca Caretakers Hut which is surrounded by terracing. There is plenty of space to spread out so there's no problem with people getting in your way and spoiling your shot. After the guided tour of the ruins you may want to return to this spot to enjoy the view, relax and chill-out.
Can I climb Huayna Picchu (optional)
Huayna Picchu is the large mountain just behind Machu Picchu. There is a narrow and steep trail right to the top of the mountain and there are also some interesting Inca ruins at the top. The view of Machu Picchu from the summit is breathtaking. There is an additional fee for climbing Huayna Picchu. Unfortunately, at the moment, clients can't buy a separate ticket just to climb Huayna Picchu. The entrance ticket to Huayna Picchu is only available as part of a combined Machu Picchu - Huayna Picchu ticket that costs S/.200 for adults (approx US$65). This doesn't offer good value to people doing the Inca Trail since the Inca Trail permit already includes entry to Machu Picchu.

The entrance tickets to Huayna Picchu must be bought BEFORE you start the Inca Trail and are sold on a first-come-first-served basis often several months in advance. Combined Huayna Picchu & Machu Picchu entrance tickets can be bought online at www.machupicchu.gob.pe

During the high season these tickets can sell out more than 8 weeks in advance. During the low season it may still be possible to buy the tickets from the government offices when you arrive in Cusco although each year this is becoming more difficult.
Where will I be dropped off at the end of the trek?
We'll collect you from your hotel on the morning of trek departure and drop you off either in the Plaza de Armas (main square) or Plaza San Francisco (2 blocks from the main square) upon your return to Cusco. You won't be dropped off directly at your hotel. You have to be acclimatized to the altitude before starting the trek. This is why we require you to come to our offices to pay the trek balance at least two days before the trek departure date. Spending two nights in Cusco before the trek should ensure that you are suitably acclimatized. On the morning of trek departure we will collect you from inside your hotel in Cusco (don't wait outside in the street). It helps us if you try to stay in a hotel that is within a few blocks of the Plaza de Armas (Main Square). If your hotel is far away from the main square we will ask you to come to our offices at a set time (usually 6am). When you come to our office we will make a note of the name of your hotel on your trek receipt and we'll give you an approximate time that we will collect you (usually between 5:30 & 06:00). The guide will come into you hotel and ask for you at reception. Because the centre of Cusco is full of small cobblestone streets our larger bus is not permitted to enter certain zones in the city centre so you will then have to walk a short distance to where the bus will be waiting for you.

Upon return to Cusco the bus will drop the group back off either in the Plaza de Armas (main square) or in the Plaza San Francisco. Traffic regulations prohibit large buses from entering the main square but usually after 10pm we don't have a problem and will be able to drop you off in the main square. You can then take a taxi back to your hotel (between US$1.5 & US$3 for a taxi). If we have to drop you off in Plaza San Francisco you may be a bit disorientated (some people may need to be woken up!!) but we recommend that you check to see in which direction the Plaza de Armas is (main square), the guide or our driver will be happy to help. It's only 2 blocks away but usually it'll be quite late at night so best to walk together as a group back to the main square before taking a taxi or walking back to your hotel. Usually the guide will accompany you back to the main square and help you find a taxi. Unfortunately it is not practical for us to take you back directly to the door of your hotel.

Most companies request their clients to meet up at a particular location in Cusco at the start of the trek (i.e. everyone meets in Plaza San Francisco at 05:30). This does help to save time and allow for an earlier start. Peru Treks reserves the right to introduce this system if felt necessary and the hotel collection by the guide does not form any kind of contractual obligation on behalf of Peru Treks. Don't worry it will be made very clear when and where we collect you on your trek voucher.
What time do we leave Aguas Calientes and what time to we get back to Cusco?
Included in the price of the trek is the train ticket for the PeruRail Expedition train service 84 (or similar) from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo, currently priced at $70 (2018). The train normally departs Aguas Calientes at 18:20 and arrives in Ollantaytambo for about 20:05. We then send a bus to collect you at the station in Ollantaytambo to bring you back to Cusco arriving at about 22:15. The Expedition service is a comfortable service with reserved seats, no standing. Teas, coffees and snacks are also available for purchase on this train.

If tickets are not available on this service we may have to purchase tickets on the Expedition service that departs Aguas Calientes at 21:50 and arrives in Ollantaytambo (arriving at 23:35). We then send a bus to Ollantaytambo to bring the group back to Cusco, arriving at about 01:40. On a couple of occasions in 2011 we have had to purchase return tickets on the 14:55 service back to Ollantaytambo but this is a rare event which we try to avoid. All train services are subject to availability. Peru Treks reserve the right to purchase tickets on alternative train services.
Why can't I come back on a different train?
A few years ago it was easy for us to get train tickets for our groups that left Aguas Calientes at about 16:30 and brought our groups all the way back to Cusco. This was ideal for us since we didn't have all the hassle of sending a bus to Ollantaytambo to collect our groups. Our groups also arrived back in Cusco early in the evening (much better than 22:30 like now). However, as Machu Picchu has become more popular with visitors over the last few years these tickets are very difficult for us to obtain. Because lots of people trek to Machu Picchu, either by way of the 4 day Inca Trail or the 5 day Santa Teresa trek, there is a greater demand for train tickets coming back from Aguas Calientes than there is for going to Aguas Calientes. Peru Rail isn't keen to meet this demand because it would mean running only partially full trains to Aguas Calientes (in order for them to come back full). This isn't economical for them. Peru Rail just want to sell round-trip tickets. They don't really want to sell any one-way tickets to us at all. This means we would have to charge you twice as much for your train ticket even if you only used the return portion. We don't think that's fair. However with help from the Association of Tour Operators of Cusco (ATC) a certain number of one-way tickets from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo have been made available to us at a slightly increased cost. We hope that this agreement will continue until the end of 2018 Basically we block-book train tickets on the 18:20 service several months in advance. About a month before departure we confirm the names and numbers of our clients and receive the tickets just a day or so before the trek departs. Sometimes we don't get the tickets until after the group has left Cusco so we have to send the tickets to Aguas Calientes where they can be collected when the group arrives. This arrangement explains why we are not very flexible when it comes to changing your train ticket. There is also the possibility that this arrangement will end and we will have to charge you the extra for a round-trip ticket. Peru Rail currently runs a monopoly service so we just have to accept this situation for the moment and hope our clients are also flexible and understanding in this matter, which is outside of our control.

If you want to come back at an earlier time or on a different train service then read the section below.
I want to come back on a different train service than the service?
If you want to return at an earlier time or you prefer to return on a different service such as the Vistadome train (either to Ollantaytambo or all the way back to Cusco) then you are best to make this booking directly with Peru Rail yourselves using their website www.perurail.com

Although Peru Rail are not keen to sell trekking companies one-way train tickets coming back from Aguas Calientes they do make a small number of these tickets available directly to the public through their website. If you book well in advance then you may be successful in buying a one-way ticket. The train service that return as far as Poroy (15 minutes by taxi from Cusco) sells out first so you will probably be more successful buying a ticket from Aguas Calientes just back as far as Ollantaytambo. From Ollantaytambo you can take a bus back to Cusco (cost approx US$5 per person) or a taxi (around US$40).

If you buy your own train ticket we will deduct the price of our train ticket from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo (US$70 - 2018) from the price of your trek. We won't refund the portion of unused bus service between Ollantaytambo and Cusco. However you must advise us that you do not want us to include the train ticket at the time that you pay your trek deposit. You can easily make a booking online with PeruRail using your credit card. If you are looking at the Peru Rail website you will notice that there are very few trains from Aguas Calientes all the way back to Cusco, most of the services only run between Aguas Calientes and Ollantaytambo (which is in the Sacred Valley) so you will need to look at the route Sacred Valley > Machu Picchu for details of their services.
If I come back on a different train, will you still send a bus to Ollantaytambo to collect me?
If you decide to book your return train yourself or decide to change your return time from that arranged by Peru Treks then unfortunately we won't be able to send a bus to meet you in Ollantaytambo and take you back to Cusco and we won't be able to offer you any refund on the unused bus service that we include in the price of our trek on the 4th day of the trek. When you arrive at Ollantaytambo there are many buses waiting at the station to meet the train. The price of this bus is about US$5 per person back to Cusco and takes around 2 hours. Alternative you can take a private taxi back to Cusco which costs in the region of US$50 per taxi which works out fairly reasonable if there are 4 of you. Max 4 persons per taxi.
My friend just wants to go by train and meet me there. Can you arrange this?
Peru Treks can only arrange the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu. We do not sell tours to Machu Picchu by train. However it is easy enough for your friend to book their train tickets online at www.perurail.com Information about getting to Machu Picchu by train can be found on the web page http://www.andeantravelweb.com/peru/destinations/machupicchu/index.html. It is very important that your friend buys their entrance ticket to Machu Picchu well in advance since government authorities have recently limited the number of visitors to Machu Picchu and entrance tickets have been known to sell out several days in advance. The government have now introduced an online ticket reservation system which can be found at www.machupicchu.gob.pe. We would recommend that your friend takes the train to Aguas Calientes on the afternoon/evening before you are due to arrive at Machu Picchu and spends the night in a hotel in Aguas Calientes. The Inca Trail group should arrive at Machu Picchu at around 08:00-08:30 on the 4th day of the trek. The group usually stops at the "caretakers hut" for a short while - this is a stone hut that overlooks Machu Picchu where the classic photo of the ruins can be taken. The group then has to leave the ruins by the main entrance and store their backpacks in a luggage storage deposit. There is a chance to use the toilets or buy a coffee or sandwich. Your friend can arrange to be waiting for you at the "caretakers hut" or wait for you at the main entrance at around 9am. The exact details and times should be coordinated with the guide in the office before the trek. Although your friend cannot officially join our guided tour (i.e. we won't try to sell you anything) I am sure that the rest of the Inca Trail group won't have any objections to your friend joining the group for an hour or so especially if it just one extra person. If you are meeting a group of friends at Machu Picchu it is probably best not to invite them to join the group. It would be a good idea to mention the fact that you are meeting with a friend at Machu Picchu with the rest of your fellow trekkers at camp the night before you arrive at Machu Picchu. I'm sure you'd have made good friends by then and it'll be no problem. Trying to arrange that you all come back on the same train service can be a bit more complicated. Typically our group will depart Aguas Calientes on the 18:20 Expedition 84 service to Ollantaytambo (see information provided above). However we don't always know the exact time until a few days before trek departure so the best way to ensure that you come back on the same service is to buy your own train tickets back. If you let us know that you will buy your own tickets at the time of booking the trek then we will refund you the price of the train ticket from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo. Unfortunately we can't refund you the unused bus service that we include on the 4th day of the trek.
Can I stay an extra night in Aguas Calientes after trek and what is the cost?
If you want to stay an extra night in Aguas Calientes after the Inca Trail trek this can easily be arranged independently by yourselves. We will purchase your train ticket to return from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo the following day. As mentioned above we can usually only obtain train tickets departing Aguas Calientes at 18:20 so if you want to return on an earlier service then you can buy the tickets yourself at www.perurail.com and we will refund you the price of the tickets provided that you let us know when you book your trek. You need to let us know whether you want to spend an extra night at the time of making the trek reservation so we can reserve your train tickets in advance. You must advise us before paying the trek deposit. Obviously if you stay an extra night then you will have to pay for your accommodation, meals etc You can find a list of recommended hotels and contact details on our web page Hotels in Machu Picchu. You can make a reservation in advance (recommended May to Sept) or simply turn up in Aguas Calientes and book a room. If you return to Machu Picchu the following day then you will have to pay for the return bus fare up to the ruins (US$12 each way) and pay another 152 Peruvian Soles (about US$46) entrance fee. Entrance tickets to Machu Picchu must be bought well in advance (see the website www.machupicchu.gob.pe) If you stay an extra night in Aguas Calientes we won't be able to send a bus to Ollantaytambo especially to pick you up and we won't be able to refund you the unused bus service that we provide on the 4th day of the trek.. You can simply catch a bus to Cusco when you arrive in Ollantaytambo. There are always plenty of buses waiting in Ollantaytambo to take passengers back to Cusco but try not to be too slow off the train since the buses fill up quickly. The price of these buses is about US$5. Alternatively you can return in a taxi (approx cost US$50 per taxi which works out fairly reasonable if there are 4 of you. Max 4 persons per taxi).

Note: The Machu Picchu entrance ticket system has changed since July 2017. Entrance tickets still cost the same S/.152 (adult) but are now only valid for either the morning turn 06:00-12:00 or the afternoon turn 12:00-17:30. New regulations require that visitors must be accompanied by a guide which are additional to the price of the entrance ticket. However if you keep your Inca Trail permit and get the guide to sign that you have received a guided tour with Peru Treks then you are not required to hire the services of a guide when you re-enter Machu Picchu the following day.
Do you recommend staying an extra night at Aguas Calientes?
Staying an extra night at Aguas Calientes gives you the opportunity to return to Machu Picchu early the following day. If you want to climb Huayna Picchu then you must ensure that you buy a combined Machu Picchu - Huayna Picchu entrance ticket (price S/.200 per person) - see question above about climbing Huayna Picchu. If you just want to visit Machu Picchu again then the standard entrance fee is S/.152 per person valid for either the morning turn 06:00-12:00 or the afternoon turn 12:00-17:30. For more info see Q36 above.

All entrance tickets to Machu Picchu & Huayna Picchu must to bought well in advance BEFORE you start the Inca Trail, preferably before you even arrive in Peru.

Entrance tickets can now be bought online at www.machupicchu.gob.pe

Visiting Machu Picchu for a second time is quite a good idea during the wet season (December to March) when you are more likely to encounter rain and Machu Picchu enshrouded in mist and clouds. During this type of weather Machu Picchu has an almost mystical atmosphere, but if you are looking for photos of the "Lost City" in the sunshine then the extra day spent at the ruins helps to improve your chances. The decision as to whether to spend an extra night at Aguas Calientes may depend upon how much time you have in Peru. From our experience, many people who had planned to stay an extra night in Aguas Calientes usually end up trying to change their train tickets to return to Cusco straight after the trek (this is subject to availability and often quite difficult). Machu Picchu is fairly small and 4 or 5 hours is usually sufficient for most visitors. Many people are surprised by the beauty of Cusco and would prefer to spend more time discovering this city than revisiting Machu Picchu for the second time.
Can I stay one more night? Can I change my train ticket?
It may still be possible to make changes to your return train ticket if you decide to stay an extra night at Aguas Calientes. You will have to take your train ticket personally to the train station in Aguas Calientes and ask them to change the return date of your ticket. You will probably be asked to pay an extra administration fee which will be dependent of the train service and departure time and changing the ticket will be subject to availability of spaces on the train on the following day. Before doing this you should also check at the Machu Picchu ticket office in Aguas Calientes if there are any entrance tickets to Machu Picchu available. During the peak season entrance tickets can sell out 4 or 5 days in advance. Unfortunately if you decide to change your train ticket yourselves we will not be able to provide transport for you from the train station at Ollantaytambo back to Cusco and the bus ticket price US$5 will not be refunded (see info above).
Can you pick me up from Ollantaytambo , instead of from Cusco?
Yes, provided that you are suitably acclimatized to the altitude prior to starting the trek. Ollantaytambo is at a much lower altitude than Cusco and time spent there (or anywhere else in the Sacred Valley) doesn't count towards your acclimatization period. We recommend that you spend at least 2 nights in Cusco, preferably three, prior to spending the night at Ollantaytambo. When you come to our office you must also give us the name of your hotel in Ollantaytambo so that we can arrange a time to pick you up. The hotel would need to be accessible for the bus, otherwise you would need to meet us in the main plaza. If you do not have a hotel reservation and you decide to meet us in the main Plaza in Ollantaytambo at a pre-arranged time we cannot accept responsibility if we can't find you and leave you behind!! We do not pick up clients from any intermediate hotels between Cusco and Ollantaytambo.
I need to cancel my trek booking, can I get a refund of my trek deposit?
No, as stated in Q2 above, the trek deposit is non-refundable and non-transferable. The deposit is used to purchase your Inca Trail trek permit and reserve space within the group. After purchasing the permit we cannot change the date of trek departure or change the name or passport number on the trek permit. If you decide to cancel we cannot transfer your trek permit to another client. Government regulations prevent us from filling your cancelled space with another client and the government won't refund or credit us the cost of the permit. Even if we were happy to pay for another trek permit for a new client we are still not allowed to fill the cancelled space with another person. We just have to depart for the trek with a smaller group which is less economical to run.( For further details about our trek cancellation policy please see Inca Trail Terms and Conditions for more details)
What happens if the Inca Trail is closed or partially closed?
Its important that before making a trek booking you read our booking terms and conditions. During the wet season heavy rains can result in landslides that can block part of the trail or close some of the campsites. Usually these partial trail closures are just for a few days but they can be for several weeks or even months. In the event of such closures Peru Treks will do our best to find an alternative route to get to Machu Picchu. If we can't offer a suitable alternative then we will have to cancel the trek and refund any payments less any costs already spent or committed to operating the trek. (see Inca Trail Terms and Conditions for more details). You will have to reclaim the remaining proportion from your travel insurance.

(i) If the trail is blocked between km82 and Wiñay Wayna then an alternative trail along the banks of the Vilcanota River to km104 can often be used. The trail then climbs steeply to Wiñay Wayna to rejoin the Inca Trail onwards to Machu Picchu (no extra costs involved).

(ii) If the campsite at Wiñay Wayna is closed then the group may have to camp at Phuyupatamarca (official designated campsite) or continue to Machu Picchu and then onwards to Aguas Calientes to spend the night in Aguas Calientes before visiting Machu Picchu on the final day. There are no extra costs associated with staying at Phutupatamarca campsite but since this campsite is about 4.5 hours trek to Machu Picchu it means arriving around 10am which is approximately 3 hours later than planned. If the group stays in Aguas Calientes then Peru Treks will try to offer basic mixed-dorm style accommodation on the floor of a local restaurant (no extra cost but not always available). Clients wanting to stay in hostals & hotels can do so at their own expense. Budget accommodation can usually be found for US$15-20 per person. Our trek price includes for a one-way bus ticket between Machu Picchu and Aguas Calientes (current price US$12pp). Clients will have to pay for the additional 2 bus trips required to visit Machu Picchu on the final day of the trek (walking takes about 1 hour each way and is free but most people choose the bus).

(iii) If Wiñay Wayna campsite is open but the trail between Wiñay Wayna and Machu Picchu is closed then the group will have to follow an alternative route via km104 and Aguas Calientes. This alternative route will involve an additional bus ride from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu (current price US$12pp) which clients will be responsible for paying (walking takes about 1 hour and is free). Peru Treks will do our best to minimize any disruption caused by factors outside of our control.
I don't have a passport can I still make a trek booking?
No. We require a passport number in order to buy the trek permits. If you don't have a passport then you cannot make a trek booking.
I have a passport expired passport, Can I still make a trek booking?
No. You will have to wait until you renew your passport before you can make a trek booking. Some companies may still accept your booking but there is a risk that you won't be allowed to start the trek and you will lose your trek deposit or even the full price of your trek.
I have a valid passport (it still has more than a month left before it expires)?
Ideally its best to wait until you have your new passport before making a trek booking. However if you can't wait then you can make a trek booking using your old passport number as long as you can bring your old passport with you on the Inca Trail. When making an application for a new passport you must request that your old passport is returned to you, most countries do this. If your old passport is not returned to you or you forget to bring your old passport with you on the trek then you will not be allowed to start the trek and your trek will be cancelled and no payments will be refunded. A photocopy of your old passport is NOT permissible, you have to bring the original old passport.
I have lost my passport / had my passport stolen?
If, after having made a trek booking with toMachupicchu, you are unfortunate enough to lose your passport you will have to get a replacement passport. After you have received your new passport we will then have to submit an application to the government authorities to update your trek permit with your new passport number. The application can only be made a maximum of 3 working days in advance and we won't know if the application will be successful until a day or two before trek departure. In order to make an application to update your trek permit we require (1) a photocopy of your old passport and (2) a photocopy of your new passport. The date of issue of the new passport has to be after the date that we bought your trek permit. We will also require a copy of a police report confirming that the passport has been lost or stolen. The police report must include reference to your old passport number. We then have to prepare a formal application to the government authorities. It cannot be guaranteed that the application will be successful so this process should only be used as a last resort. A US$25 administration charge will be made for preparing and submitting the application. If the application is not successful or for any reason we cannot make an application in time then your trek booking will be cancelled and we will not allow you to start the Inca Trail trek. We will not refund your trek deposit. You will not be required to pay the trek balance until we know that the trek application will be successful. If you are not permitted to start the trek your trek booking will be treated as a "cancellation of the trek by the client" (see Inca Trail Terms and Conditions)

All passports are checked at the start of the Inca Trail and if your passport name and number is not the same as the name and passport number on your trek permit then you will not be allowed to start the trek and the guide and tour operator may face penalty charges.

It is possible that the government authorities will only accept the application after they have seen the original new passport and original police report so please make sure that you come to our offices as soon as possible. The government offices are closed on Saturdays, Sundays and public holidays so if you have a trek on a Monday morning then you must try to get to our offices by the Friday so we have time to take the original documents to the government offices. We cannot leave this process until the day of trek departure.

These regulations have been introduced by the government authorities to stop companies inventing list of clients and then changing the details with real clients at the last minute (i.e. it stops companies from blocking spaces). This regulation is very inflexible and strictly enforced.
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from $700,00
Extra
  • Machu Picchu Entrance ⇨$0,00 *
    Include
  • Return Tourist Train ⇨$0,00 *
    Include
  • Mountain Huayna Picchu ⇨$75,00
  • Mountain Machu Picchu ⇨$75,00
  • Sleeping Bag ⇨$30,00
  • Walking Sticks ⇨$20,00
  • Extra Porter 5-7 Kg. ⇨$60,00
  • Buffet Lunch in Machu Picchu ⇨$35,00
  • Vistadome Train 360º | Return ⇨$40,00
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Whatsap Choquequirao Trek to Machu Picchu +51 964 - 203 - 330

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