If you have the time and the heart for true adventure, this is the Inca Trail you’ve been dreaming of.
This legendary route takes you deep into the Sacred Valley, through ancient stone paths built by the Incas themselves. Over four unforgettable days, you’ll hike past stunning mountain passes, hidden ruins, and cloud forest trails that few ever get to see.
With Machulas Journey, your experience is fully taken care of, from start to finish.
All-inclusive trek – Every detail is covered so you can focus on the journey.
Delicious meals – Freshly prepared by our private chef, right on the trail.
Porters provided – We carry the heavy gear so you can enjoy the views, stress-free.
Local expert guides – Born and raised in the Andes, they’ll lead you to exclusive hidden spots — places where you’re guaranteed to be alone with nature and history.
This is more than a hike. It’s a spiritual, physical, and cultural experience that brings you face-to-face with the legacy of the Inca civilization.
If you’re seeking the real Inca Trail and have a few extra days to explore, this is the ultimate way to reach Machu Picchu. Book now, permits are limited and sell out fast.
Distance: 14 km (8.7 miles) | Hiking time: Approximately 7 hours
Early start at 4:30 AM
We pick you up from your hotel in private transport and head toward the trailhead. Along the way, we stop for breakfast in Ollantaytambo to fuel up for the day ahead.
Trek begins at Km 82
After passing the entrance gate (tickets and passports handled for you), we begin with an easy hike along flat Inca paths. Soon, we reach Llaqtapata, an ancient site where your guide shares fascinating stories about Inca culture and history.
Organic buffet lunch
Midway through the day, your porters will have prepared a delicious, fresh lunch to refuel you in the heart of the Andes.
Afternoon hike to camp
After a short rest, we continue trekking for a few hours through stunning landscapes until we reach our campsite at Ayapata. We’ll arrive around 5 PM, ready to relax and recharge.
Dinner and campfire stories
Enjoy an amazing dinner under the stars as we prepare for the next day’s adventure.
Distance: 16 km (10 miles) | Hiking time: Approximately 10 hours
Early start
Wake up early and enjoy a hearty breakfast at 6:00 AM to fuel the most challenging day of the trek.
Conquer the highest passes
Today we hike to the two highest points on the trail:
These breathtaking summits offer unbeatable views and perfect photo opportunities.
Explore ancient Inca sites
Along the way, we visit Runkurakay (the “round-shaped area”) and Sayacmarka (“stand upright area”), where you’ll discover unique highland plants and wildlife like the Patagonian hummingbird and white-tailed deer.
Evening arrival at Chaquicocha camp
After approximately 10 hours of hiking, covering 16 km, we’ll reach our campsite around 5:30 PM. Enjoy a delicious dinner and rest well—you’ll sleep like a baby alpaca.
Distance: 10 km (6.2 miles) | Hiking time: Approximately 6 hours
After the toughest day, today’s hike is more relaxed and incredibly scenic. We’ll walk through some of the most breathtaking landscapes of the Inca Trail, with sweeping views of the Andes.
At the Phuyupatamarca Pass (3,870 m / 12,696 ft), you’ll catch your first glimpse of Machu Picchu and Huayna Picchu—an unforgettable moment as we enter the edge of the Amazon jungle.
We explore the archaeological site of Phuyupatamarca, then descend through lush cloud forest, visiting the stunning terraces of Intipata overlooking the Urubamba Valley.
We reach camp in the early afternoon and, after lunch, visit the beautiful Wiñaywayna ruins for a final deep dive into Inca history.
In the evening, we enjoy a special farewell dinner and thank our porters for their incredible support. Tipping is optional and based on your experience.
Distance: 5 km (3.1 miles) | Hiking time: Approximately 2 hours
We begin early, waking up around 3:00 AM to be among the first at Machu Picchu. After a light breakfast or snack box, we walk five minutes to the final checkpoint.
From there, we hike for about two hours to the Sun Gate (Inti Punku), where you’ll get your first unforgettable view of Machu Picchu at sunrise. After a short break for photos, we continue down to the citadel.
At the entrance, you’ll show your passport and admission ticket, then begin a guided two-hour tour of the most iconic sites—temples, terraces, plazas, and more.
After the tour, you’ll have free time to explore on your own. If you’ve reserved a ticket to Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain, this is when you’ll do your climb.
In the afternoon, we take the bus down to Aguas Calientes, where you can choose to enjoy a final lunch with your guide (not included). Then we board the train to Ollantaytambo, followed by private transport back to your hotel in Cusco.
We offer daily departures from March to January. This tour can be done any day of the week and 11 months a year except in February because the Inca trail is closed. We recommend you to book the Inca Trail at least 5 months in advance because there are only limited spaces available.
