Let’s face it, nobody does the Iconic Inca Trail like us. We combine the cultural highlights of the Sacred Valley with the challenge of one of the world’s most famous treks. The four-day Inca Trail trek takes you through a stunning combination of the region’s ruins, mountains and cloud forests. As soon as you catch your first glimpse of Machu Picchu in the early morning light, you’ll know it’s all been worth it.
Best of all, because we run our own treks, we can ensure fair treatment of our porters and quality food and equipment, so you can relax and enjoy the beauty of the region.
Guided by local experts from Tunqui Expeditions, Best Inca Trail tour operator. This iconic route takes you through sacred sites like Wiñay Wayna and Phuyupatamarca before your unforgettable sunrise entrance to Machu Picchu through the Sun Gate (Inti Punku) Inca Trail small group trekking. Enjoy gourmet meals, high-quality camping, and ethical tourism that supports local communities.
What makes this trek unique:
Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or a cultural explorer, the Inca Trail 5 days and 4 nights experience is the perfect way to connect with nature, history, and the spirit of the Andes.
Let’s be honest: no one does the Inca Trail like Tunqui Expeditions. We combine the most iconic cultural highlights of the Sacred Valley with the challenge of one of the world’s most legendary treks.
Over the course of four days on the Inca Trail, you’ll pass through an astonishing mix of ancient ruins, soaring mountain passes, and lush cloud forests.
And the moment you see Machu Picchu bathed in the golden light of dawn for the first time, you’ll know it was all worth it.
Best of all, because we operate our own expeditions, we guarantee fair treatment of our porters and offer high-quality meals and equipment—so you can focus entirely on enjoying the beauty of the region.
Enjoy a full-day guided exploration of the Sacred Valley of the Incas. Start with a visit to a women’s weaving cooperative supported by Tunqui Expeditions, followed by a stop at a local community known for its traditional pottery.
Lunch is served at the Community Poques, also supported by Tunqui Expeditions.
In the afternoon, you may choose to hike up to the ancient Ollantaytambo storehouses, offering spectacular views of the ruins, or simply wander the cobbled streets of town and visit a traditional chichería, where locals serve chicha de jora (corn beer).
Pottery Demonstration in Poques
In the rural village of Poques, several families have come together to launch a small business based on their ancestral adobe pottery techniques. They use locally sourced clay to handcraft plates, bowls, and decorative pieces. During your visit, you’ll witness the full ceramic-making process, including adobe brick production—an essential technique for traditional construction in the Sacred Valley.
All of this while enjoying breathtaking views of the Pisac ruins. At the end of the visit, you’ll have the chance to purchase crafts directly from the artisans.
Depart by van from Ollantaytambo to Kilometer 82, the official starting point of the Inca Trail.
This first day is an easy introduction to the trek, ideal for acclimatization, as you walk past meandering rivers, lush vegetation, and archaeological sites like Llactapata.
Hike: KM 82 – Wayllabamba Camp
Duration: 5–6 hours | Distance: 11 km
This section is moderately challenging and serves as a warm-up for the days ahead. You’ll pass by small villages and enjoy stunning views of the Andes. Your team of guides, porters, and cooks will take care of everything—just bring a light daypack with essentials.
We begin early to tackle one of the toughest sections of the trail: the ascent to Warmiwañusca Pass, also known as Dead Woman’s Pass—the highest point of the trek at 4,198 m (13,769 ft).
Hike: Wayllabamba Camp – Pacaymayu Camp
Duration: 6–7 hours | Distance: 12 km
The terrain becomes steeper and more dramatic as you climb. Expect diverse weather conditions—from intense sun to chilly winds. Take your time, stay hydrated, and get ready to enjoy incredible views as your reward. Most hikers reach the camp by early afternoon and have time to relax.
Today you’ll cross two additional passes and visit several significant Inca ruins. First, you’ll climb to Runquraqay Pass (3,950 m / 12,959 ft), with possible views of the snow-capped Vilcabamba Range. Continue to the second pass (3,700 m / 12,139 ft), along original Inca stone paths and constructions.
From this point, you’ll enjoy panoramic views of the Urubamba Valley before reaching Phuyupatamarca, the “Town Above the Clouds” (3,650 m / 11,975 ft). Here you may camp, or hike an additional 1.5 hours to the stunning site of Wiñay Wayna (2,650 m / 8,694 ft).
Hike: Pacaymayu Camp – Wiñay Wayna
Duration: 9 hours | Distance: 16 km
The final day begins before sunrise with a hike to Inti Punku, the Sun Gate, to witness the first light over the majestic ruins of Machu Picchu.
Afterward, descend to the citadel for a 1.5-hour guided tour, with free time to explore on your own.
Hike: Wiñay Wayna – Machu Picchu
Duration: 2–3 hours | Distance: 6 km
Optional: Walk to the Inca Bridge (15 minutes one way) if time allows.
Then board the bus to Aguas Calientes (25 minutes), where you’ll have time to relax and enjoy lunch before boarding the train back.
Train: Aguas Calientes – Ollantaytambo (1h30–1h45)
Private Transport: Ollantaytambo – Cusco (1h30–1h45)
At Tunqui Expeditions, we clearly specify the services included and not included in all of our tour itineraries listed on our website. We take care of all logistics to ensure a smooth and safe experience, but please pay close attention to the details so you don’t miss anything important.
Some elements may vary depending on the specific program, so be sure to read carefully before booking with us.
All camping gear will be carried by our team of porters and includes:
We believe that attention to detail is what sets us apart from other local tour companies.
Our guides carry a fully charged satellite phone at all times to ensure connectivity with doctors, hospitals, or family — even in remote areas. It’s also available for non-emergency use if needed.
At Tunqui Expeditions, we aim to provide a complete and worry-free experience on the Inca Trail. However, there are some items not included in the standard package. Below is a detailed list of what’s not covered and may require an additional fee or personal preparation.
If you don’t have your own, you can rent a high-quality sleeping bag from us. Our sleeping bags are mummy-shaped, include a clean sleeping liner, and are rated to withstand cold temperatures as low as -18°C / 0°F. Each bag is sanitized after use and limited to 30 total trips to ensure quality.
Rental fee: US$ 20.00 per person
Trekking poles with rubber tips are highly recommended for uneven terrain and for extra support during steep climbs and descents. You can rent a set from us if needed.
Rental fee: US$ 20.00 per person
We strongly recommend purchasing travel insurance that covers trip cancellations, medical emergencies, and unexpected delays during your journey.
While our porters, chefs, and guides receive fair wages, tipping is customary and always appreciated for the hard work and dedication of the team. Most groups pool their tips to distribute fairly among the porters and kitchen crew.
Unpredictable factors such as landslides, severe weather, health issues, government policy changes, political instability, strikes, or other force majeure events may affect the itinerary. These are not the responsibility of Tunqui Expeditions and may lead to extra costs.
Huayna Picchu is the iconic peak located to the north of Machu Picchu, famous for its steep stairs and stunning panoramic views of the citadel below. The hike takes about 45 minutes and is ideal for adventurous travelers who are not afraid of heights.
We want to help you be fully prepared for your Inca Trail adventure. Below you’ll find a detailed checklist of essential items to ensure a safe, comfortable, and worry-free trekking experience.
Please note: Our porters will carry up to 7 kg (15.4 lb) of your personal items. This includes your sleeping bag and inflatable mattress (if you bring or rent one), which together weigh approximately 3.5 kg.
Here’s a complete checklist to help you prepare for your adventure. Please read carefully and pack accordingly to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable trek.
Note: Porters will carry up to 7 kg / 15.4 lb of your personal belongings. This includes your sleeping bag and inflatable mattress (together they weigh approx. 3.5 kg if rented or brought).
The 5-Day Classic Inca Trail to Machu Picchu can depart on any day of the week from March through January.
Note: We do not operate this itinerary in February due to the rainy season and trail maintenance closures.
This small-group tour is guaranteed with just 2 participants.
Important:
PayPal charges a 5% service fee, which is the client’s responsibility for online deposits. The remaining balance can be paid in cash in Cusco with no additional fees.
Enhance your trip with any of the following add-on experiences:
You may add the following items to your booking:
Enhance your experience with these popular options:
Once your reservation is confirmed, your price is locked in — guaranteed. No matter what changes occur, we won’t increase your rate.
Before booking, please make sure to read all important information about this tour.
Let’s be honest: no one does the Inca Trail like Tunqui Expeditions. We combine the most iconic cultural highlights of the Sacred Valley with the challenge of one of the world’s most legendary treks.
Over the course of four days on the Inca Trail, you’ll pass through an astonishing mix of ancient ruins, soaring mountain passes, and lush cloud forests.
And the moment you see Machu Picchu bathed in the golden light of dawn for the first time, you’ll know it was all worth it.
Best of all, because we operate our own expeditions, we guarantee fair treatment of our porters and offer high-quality meals and equipment—so you can focus entirely on enjoying the beauty of the region.
Enjoy a full-day guided exploration of the Sacred Valley of the Incas. Start with a visit to a women’s weaving cooperative supported by Tunqui Expeditions, followed by a stop at a local community known for its traditional pottery.
Lunch is served at the Community Poques, also supported by Tunqui Expeditions.
In the afternoon, you may choose to hike up to the ancient Ollantaytambo storehouses, offering spectacular views of the ruins, or simply wander the cobbled streets of town and visit a traditional chichería, where locals serve chicha de jora (corn beer).
Pottery Demonstration in Poques
In the rural village of Poques, several families have come together to launch a small business based on their ancestral adobe pottery techniques. They use locally sourced clay to handcraft plates, bowls, and decorative pieces. During your visit, you’ll witness the full ceramic-making process, including adobe brick production—an essential technique for traditional construction in the Sacred Valley.
All of this while enjoying breathtaking views of the Pisac ruins. At the end of the visit, you’ll have the chance to purchase crafts directly from the artisans.
Depart by van from Ollantaytambo to Kilometer 82, the official starting point of the Inca Trail.
This first day is an easy introduction to the trek, ideal for acclimatization, as you walk past meandering rivers, lush vegetation, and archaeological sites like Llactapata.
Hike: KM 82 – Wayllabamba Camp
Duration: 5–6 hours | Distance: 11 km
This section is moderately challenging and serves as a warm-up for the days ahead. You’ll pass by small villages and enjoy stunning views of the Andes. Your team of guides, porters, and cooks will take care of everything—just bring a light daypack with essentials.
We begin early to tackle one of the toughest sections of the trail: the ascent to Warmiwañusca Pass, also known as Dead Woman’s Pass—the highest point of the trek at 4,198 m (13,769 ft).
Hike: Wayllabamba Camp – Pacaymayu Camp
Duration: 6–7 hours | Distance: 12 km
The terrain becomes steeper and more dramatic as you climb. Expect diverse weather conditions—from intense sun to chilly winds. Take your time, stay hydrated, and get ready to enjoy incredible views as your reward. Most hikers reach the camp by early afternoon and have time to relax.
Today you’ll cross two additional passes and visit several significant Inca ruins. First, you’ll climb to Runquraqay Pass (3,950 m / 12,959 ft), with possible views of the snow-capped Vilcabamba Range. Continue to the second pass (3,700 m / 12,139 ft), along original Inca stone paths and constructions.
From this point, you’ll enjoy panoramic views of the Urubamba Valley before reaching Phuyupatamarca, the “Town Above the Clouds” (3,650 m / 11,975 ft). Here you may camp, or hike an additional 1.5 hours to the stunning site of Wiñay Wayna (2,650 m / 8,694 ft).
Hike: Pacaymayu Camp – Wiñay Wayna
Duration: 9 hours | Distance: 16 km
The final day begins before sunrise with a hike to Inti Punku, the Sun Gate, to witness the first light over the majestic ruins of Machu Picchu.
Afterward, descend to the citadel for a 1.5-hour guided tour, with free time to explore on your own.
Hike: Wiñay Wayna – Machu Picchu
Duration: 2–3 hours | Distance: 6 km
Optional: Walk to the Inca Bridge (15 minutes one way) if time allows.
Then board the bus to Aguas Calientes (25 minutes), where you’ll have time to relax and enjoy lunch before boarding the train back.
Train: Aguas Calientes – Ollantaytambo (1h30–1h45)
Private Transport: Ollantaytambo – Cusco (1h30–1h45)
At Tunqui Expeditions, we clearly specify the services included and not included in all of our tour itineraries listed on our website. We take care of all logistics to ensure a smooth and safe experience, but please pay close attention to the details so you don’t miss anything important.
Some elements may vary depending on the specific program, so be sure to read carefully before booking with us.
All camping gear will be carried by our team of porters and includes:
We believe that attention to detail is what sets us apart from other local tour companies.
Our guides carry a fully charged satellite phone at all times to ensure connectivity with doctors, hospitals, or family — even in remote areas. It’s also available for non-emergency use if needed.
At Tunqui Expeditions, we aim to provide a complete and worry-free experience on the Inca Trail. However, there are some items not included in the standard package. Below is a detailed list of what’s not covered and may require an additional fee or personal preparation.
If you don’t have your own, you can rent a high-quality sleeping bag from us. Our sleeping bags are mummy-shaped, include a clean sleeping liner, and are rated to withstand cold temperatures as low as -18°C / 0°F. Each bag is sanitized after use and limited to 30 total trips to ensure quality.
Rental fee: US$ 20.00 per person
Trekking poles with rubber tips are highly recommended for uneven terrain and for extra support during steep climbs and descents. You can rent a set from us if needed.
Rental fee: US$ 20.00 per person
We strongly recommend purchasing travel insurance that covers trip cancellations, medical emergencies, and unexpected delays during your journey.
While our porters, chefs, and guides receive fair wages, tipping is customary and always appreciated for the hard work and dedication of the team. Most groups pool their tips to distribute fairly among the porters and kitchen crew.
Unpredictable factors such as landslides, severe weather, health issues, government policy changes, political instability, strikes, or other force majeure events may affect the itinerary. These are not the responsibility of Tunqui Expeditions and may lead to extra costs.
Huayna Picchu is the iconic peak located to the north of Machu Picchu, famous for its steep stairs and stunning panoramic views of the citadel below. The hike takes about 45 minutes and is ideal for adventurous travelers who are not afraid of heights.
We want to help you be fully prepared for your Inca Trail adventure. Below you’ll find a detailed checklist of essential items to ensure a safe, comfortable, and worry-free trekking experience.
Please note: Our porters will carry up to 7 kg (15.4 lb) of your personal items. This includes your sleeping bag and inflatable mattress (if you bring or rent one), which together weigh approximately 3.5 kg.
Here’s a complete checklist to help you prepare for your adventure. Please read carefully and pack accordingly to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable trek.
Note: Porters will carry up to 7 kg / 15.4 lb of your personal belongings. This includes your sleeping bag and inflatable mattress (together they weigh approx. 3.5 kg if rented or brought).
The 5-Day Classic Inca Trail to Machu Picchu can depart on any day of the week from March through January.
Note: We do not operate this itinerary in February due to the rainy season and trail maintenance closures.
This small-group tour is guaranteed with just 2 participants.
Important:
PayPal charges a 5% service fee, which is the client’s responsibility for online deposits. The remaining balance can be paid in cash in Cusco with no additional fees.
Enhance your trip with any of the following add-on experiences:
You may add the following items to your booking:
Enhance your experience with these popular options:
Once your reservation is confirmed, your price is locked in — guaranteed. No matter what changes occur, we won’t increase your rate.
Before booking, please make sure to read all important information about this tour.
