The Inca Trail to Machu Picchu is a renowned trekking route that has captivated adventurers for centuries. This private 4-day excursion offers a unique opportunity to experience the majesty of this ancient path, designed for a small group of up to 16 participants. From expert guides to comfortable camping accommodations, every aspect of the journey has been meticulously planned to ensure an intimate and unforgettable exploration of Peru’s breathtaking landscapes and rich cultural heritage. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or a first-time adventurer, this private Inca Trail trek promises to leave you with memories that will last a lifetime. Discover the secrets that lie along this legendary path as you…
Good To Know
- A 4-day private Inca Trail trek to Machu Picchu, priced from $850 per person, with a maximum group size of 16 participants.
- Includes transportation, entrance fees, meals, and personal porters for luggage up to 7 kg.
- Trekkers will be led by expert mountain guides and stay in comfortable 4-person tents during the journey.
- The itinerary covers approximately 7 miles on the first day, reaching the highest point at 4,200 meters on Day 2.
- Exploratory visits to well-preserved Inca ruins and the final descent to Machu Picchu are included on Days 3 and 4.
Tour Overview
The 4-day private Inca Trail to Machu Picchu tour takes travelers from Cusco, Peru to the iconic Inca ruins. Priced from $850 per person, the tour has a maximum group size of 16.
All transportation, entrance fees, and meals are included. Travelers will have personal porters for 7 kg of their belongings and will sleep in comfortable 4-person tents.
The tour features expert mountain guides and a panoramic train ride back to Cusco on the final day. Confirmation is received within 48 hours, and the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible.
Participants must provide passport details, and there are no refunds for cancellations.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Cusco.
Inclusions
This private Inca Trail to Machu Picchu tour includes all the essential elements for a memorable experience.
All transportation during the 4-day trek is provided, along with the entry fees to the Inca Trail and Machu Picchu. Travelers will have the convenience of a personal porter to carry up to 7 kg of their belongings.
Meals, including 4 breakfasts, 3 lunches, and 3 dinners, are included. Expert mountain guides lead the way, and comfortable 4-person tents are set up for every 2 travelers.
Sleeping bags, inflatable mattresses, and trekking poles are available for rent. The tour concludes with a panoramic train ride back to Cusco on the final day.
Meeting and Pickup
Pickup takes place at the hotel lobby, with a start time of 4:30 am. This early departure allows for a full day of exploration along the Private Inca Trail.
Travelers will meet their expert mountain guides at the designated pickup location to begin the 4-day adventure. The tour includes all transportation during the journey, ensuring a seamless experience.
Participants should have their passports ready, as details are required for all travelers. This private tour has a maximum group size of 16, providing an intimate and personalized experience throughout the Inca Trail hike to the iconic Machu Picchu.
Itinerary Day 1
How does the first day of the Private Inca Trail to Machu Picchu tour unfold?
The adventure begins with an early 4:30 am pickup from the hotel lobby. Travelers are accompanied by expert mountain guides as they drive to the starting point of the Inca Trail.
After a brief introduction, the hike commences, passing through lush Andean scenery and ancient Inca ruins. Porters carry the group’s personal items, allowing travelers to focus on their trek.
The first day covers approximately 7 miles, ending at the campsite where a delicious dinner is served.
As the sun sets, guests retire to their comfortable 4-person tents, prepared for the next day’s journey.
Itinerary Day 2
After an early morning start, travelers embark on the second day’s trek. The day begins with a steady climb through lush cloud forest, providing a chance to spot a variety of exotic birds and wildlife. As the path ascends, the scenery shifts to more rugged, alpine terrain. Hikers are rewarded with stunning panoramic views of the surrounding Andes mountains. Lunch is served in a scenic spot along the trail. In the afternoon, the group navigates a challenging section featuring steep stone stairs before reaching the campsite for the night. A well-deserved dinner is followed by time to rest and prepare for the next day’s hike.
Hiking Duration | Elevation Gain | Campsite |
---|---|---|
6-7 hours | 1,200 m | Dead Woman’s Pass (4,200 m) |
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Itinerary Day 3
The third day on the Inca Trail takes travelers through the most challenging and rewarding terrain. Hikers will ascend the highest point of the trek, reaching an elevation of 4,200 meters (13,800 feet) at the stunning Abra Runkuracay pass.
The panoramic views from the top are breathtaking, showcasing the rugged Andes mountains. Descending the other side, the group will explore the well-preserved Inca ruins of Runkuracay and Sayacmarca.
Lunch will be served at Chaquicocha, followed by a challenging hike to the campsite at Phuyupatamarca. At the end of the day, hikers will be rewarded with stunning vistas of the Inca site and the Urubamba River valley below.
Itinerary Day 4
On the final day, hikers descend from the Phuyupatamarca campsite towards the stunning Machu Picchu ruins.
They’ll pass through the Sun Gate, taking in the breathtaking views of the ancient citadel.
Once at the site, they’ll have ample time to explore Machu Picchu’s iconic structures, like the Intihuatana, the Temple of the Sun, and the Inca Bridge.
After the tour, they’ll board the panoramic train for the return trip to Cusco, ending their Inca Trail adventure.
Throughout the day, the expert mountain guides will provide insightful commentary, ensuring hikers make the most of their final day on the trail.
Additional Information
Confirmation for this private Inca Trail tour is received within 48 hours of booking, subject to availability. The tour is not wheelchair accessible, but infant seats are available. Children must be accompanied by an adult.
Accessibility | Dietary Needs | Documentation |
---|---|---|
Not wheelchair accessible | Vegetarian options available | Passport details required for all participants |
Infant seats available | Other dietary requirements to be advised at booking | – |
Children must be accompanied by an adult | – | – |
This private trek along the Inca Trail leads to the iconic Machu Picchu site. Detailed planning and preparation ensure a comfortable and memorable experience for all travelers.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Skill Level Required for This Hike?
The hiking skill level required for this tour is moderate to challenging. It involves trekking through steep and rugged terrain, with daily hikes reaching up to 7-8 hours. Participants should have a good level of physical fitness.
Can I Bring My Own Hiking Gear, or Is It Provided?
Hikers can bring their own hiking gear, but the tour also provides sleeping bags, inflatable mattresses, and trekking poles for rent. The tour includes transportation, meals, and porters to carry up to 7 kg of personal items.
What Is the Weather Typically Like During the Trek?
The weather during the trek can vary, but it’s typically cool and dry in the mornings, warming up to mild temperatures during the day. Hikers should prepare for potential rain showers and pack appropriate layers for the changing conditions.
Are There Any Altitude Restrictions or Health Requirements?
There are no strict altitude restrictions, but participants should be in good physical shape as the trek reaches high elevations. Pre-existing medical conditions should be disclosed, and travelers may need to provide a doctor’s note.
Can I Extend My Stay in Cusco Before or After the Tour?
Customers can extend their stay in Cusco before or after the tour, but this must be arranged separately. The tour package only includes the 4-day Inca Trail hike to Machu Picchu, and doesn’t cover additional time in Cusco.
The Sum Up
This private Inca Trail trek offers a unique and intimate experience to explore the ancient Inca ruins and stunning landscapes on the way to the iconic Machu Picchu. With expert mountain guides, comfortable camping accommodations, and delicious meals, this all-inclusive 4-day adventure provides an unforgettable journey for a maximum of 16 participants, creating lasting memories along the way.
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