Machu Picchu 4 day Hike | Inca trail to Machu Picchu

Gear up for the Machu Picchu 4-Day Hike—an epic group adventure that’s all about unforgettable trails, unbeatable scenery, and the thrill of conquering the iconic Inca route together! Over 44 kilometers, you’ll hike through jaw-dropping landscapes, explore ancient ruins, and share laughs around the campfire with fellow adventurers. And here’s the kicker: we provide top-notch camping equipment and expert guides, so you can focus on the experience, not the logistics. Whether you’re here to challenge yourself, make new friends, or create legendary stories to tell back home, this group trek has everything you need for the journey of a lifetime!

Machu Picchu 4 day Hike | Inca trail to Machu Picchu

The Machu Picchu 4 day hike is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. It’s physically challenging yet mesmerizing, walking around 6-7 hours a day and it’s 44 km in length. This trek has been hand-crafted for those people who want to get to Machu Picchu along the incredible ancient Inca route. You also visit Inca ruins along the way, as well as breathtaking scenery.

It’s a trek that suits very well to people who are considering staying in Cusco for 5 to 6 days (or longer). The Machu Picchu 4-day is ideal for couples looking for a rare and thrilling trek in nature. It’s also perfect for groups of friends and lone travelers who enjoy a challenge as well as the pure, unadulterated beauty of the Sacred Valley.

You can start from Cusco or any other town in the Sacred Valley. It will be the same price.

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• Secure your spot early! We recommend booking this tour at least 4 months in advance to guarantee availability and ensure a seamless and unforgettable experience.
• Please note that the Inca Trail is closed for maintenance in February, but Machu Picchu remains open for exploration. Plan your visit accordingly to make the most of your experience.

Highlights

The famed day trip Machu Picchu 4 day Hike is the world wide renowned, pinnacle of the Incan culture
You will be surrounded by the awesome beauty of nature in the Sacred Valley as you march toward the peak
Challenge yourself as you take in the nature wonders that surround the rolling hills
Engage, firsthand, with the outstanding local culture and customs of the Incas
Enjoy delicious meals at incredible ancient ruins and among breathtaking scenery, along this epic route

Machu Picchu 4 day Hike – Overview Itinerary

Day 1 of the Inca Trail 4-Day Hike: Let the Adventure Begin!

CUSCO |KM 82 | WAYLLABAMBA
After a nutritious breakfast, you will leave your hotel in Cusco. In tandem with your tour guide, you will travel on a private van toward the start the Machu Picchu 4 day hike. This starting point is the village of Piscacucho, which is 82km away. Here you begin your expedition at 2400 m.a.s.l. and you will ascend smoothly toward the ancient archaeological ruins of Llactapata (2650 m.a.s.l.). And after another 2 hours of enthralling trekking, you end up at the famed archaeological site of Wayllabamba. Finally, setting up camp and enjoying a delicious, well-earned dinner will be served and you will spend the night here.

Hiking time: 5 – 6 hours
Kilometers covered: 12 km. (7.5 mi.)
Low point: 2’600 m./8’228 ft. – High point: 3’000 m./9’842 ft.

Day 2 of the Inca Trail 4-Day Hike: Take on the Trail’s Toughest Challenge!

WAYLLABAMBA| WARMIWAÑUSKA| PACAYMAYU

This is where the Inca Trail gets real. After fueling up with a solid breakfast, you’ll hit the trail early, staring down the infamous Warmiwañuska Pass—“Dead Woman’s Pass”—at a heart-pounding 4215 m.a.s.l. The climb? Brutal. The payoff? Unbelievable. Every step through rugged switchbacks and soaring Andean peaks pushes you closer to conquering the highest point of the trek. Just when you think you’ve given it all, the views remind you why this is worth every ounce of sweat. After the adrenaline rush of the pass, descend into the stunning Pacaymayu Gorge, where a hot meal, your campsite, and a well-earned rest await. This is the stuff legends—and incredible stories—are made of
You’ll start your day with another delicious breakfast. You will head off early towards the highest point on the Inca trail, the Warmiwañuska Pass. After approximately 3 hours of trekking the Warmiwañuska Pass, also known as “The Dead Woman Pass” (4215 m.a.s.l.), will be finally within reach. After lunch, you will ascend once more up until the Pacaymayu Gorge, where you will set up the campsite, eat dinner, and rest for the night.

Hiking time: 7 – 8 hours
Kilometers covered: 16 km. (9.9 mi.)
Low point: 3’000 m./9’842 ft. – High point: 4’215 m./13’828 ft.

Day 3 of the Inca Trail 4-Day Hike: Into the Clouds and Beyond!

PACAYMAYU| WIÑAYWAYNA
This is the day that separates the tourists from the adventurers. The trail takes you deeper into the Andes, where every step feels like a scene from a lost civilization. You’ll start with the remarkable ruins of Runkuracay at 12,467 feet (3800 meters), perched like a sentinel overlooking the trail. From there, it’s a journey through history and nature, with stops at Conchamarca and the awe-inspiring Phuyupatamarca, the “town above the clouds,” sitting at 12,024 feet (3665 meters). And just when you think it can’t get more surreal, you’ll descend around 2000 ancient stone steps to Wiñaywayna, the “Forever Young” citadel, at 8,858 feet (2700 meters). This jaw-dropping gem is the perfect finale for the day. End with a hearty meal, a well-deserved rest at camp, and the thrill of knowing tomorrow brings Machu Picchu.

Hiking time: 8 – 10 hours
Kilometers covered: 16 km. (9.9 mi.)
Low point: 2’650 m./8’694 ft. – High point: 3’900 m./12’467 ft.

Day 4 of the Inca Trail 4-Day Hike: The Grand Finale – Machu Picchu Awaits!

WIÑAYWAYNA | MACHU PICCHU | CUSCO

Start your day early with a hearty breakfast before embarking on a 3-hour trek (6 km) to the iconic Sun Gate, Inti Punku, at 8,169 feet (2490 meters). As you reach this breathtaking vantage point, the majestic Machu Picchu Citadel (7,972 feet / 2430 meters) comes into view—a sight that will stay with you forever.

Upon entering Machu Picchu, you’ll enjoy a 2-hour guided tour led by an expert who will bring the history and mysteries of this ancient wonder to life. For those eager to explore beyond the guided portion, it’s highly recommended to purchase an additional entry ticket to spend extra time wandering this incredible site at your own pace.

After your tour, head to Aguas Calientes for a well-deserved lunch before taking the train back to Ollantaytambo. From there, a private van will take you back to your hotel in Cusco, where your unforgettable journey concludes.

Hiking time: 4 – 5 hours
Kilometers covered: 6 km. (3.7 mi.)
Low point: 2’030 m./6’658 ft. – High point: 3’700 m./12’140 ft.

PACKING LIST FOR MACHU PICCHU 4 DAY HIKE

More great photos about Machu Picchu 4 day Hike HERE

Important Information:
We recommend you book this tour at least 4 months in advance.If you have any extra question about this tour please contact us or chat with us via what’s app 00 51 971 186 418

When you book the Inca Trail, you gain access to the Circuit 3 of Machu Picchu, offering extensive exploration of this iconic site. If you wish to extend your visit, additional options are available at the time of booking. For more details on Machu Picchu circuits, please refer to the following link.

Which Extra Circuit Should You Buy?

• If You’re an Inca Architecture Geek:
  Circuit 2 and Circuit 3 are your playgrounds! 🏛️ These routes will let you nerd out on all the intricate stonework, hidden temples, and mysterious structures that make Machu Picchu an architectural wonder.
• For History Buffs:
  Pick any circuit, and you’re in for a treat! 📜 Each path will tell you a different part of the Machu Picchu story, from ancient myths to Inca rituals. Just get ready to geek out on all the juicy history facts!
• Photographers on the Hunt for That Perfect Shot:
  Circuit 1 and the hikes up to Machu Picchu Mountain or Huayna Picchu are your dream come true. 📸✨ These routes have all the epic viewpoints, postcard-worthy angles, and jaw-dropping scenery you need to fill up your camera roll (and make your friends jealous).
• Adventurers, This Way!
  Love a good physical challenge? 🧗 Go for the Circuit 3 Caverns or the Machu Picchu Mountain Hike. These trails are steeper, wilder, and way less crowded. Plus, you get to explore hidden corners of Machu Picchu that most tourists never see. Now that’s how to do Machu Picchu like a pro.

Choose your extra circuit wisely and get ready for an unforgettable adventure in the heart of the Andes! 😎🌄

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Your FAQs Answered for the Machu Picchu 4 day Hike

How Difficult Is the  Machu Picchu 4 day Hike ?

• The Machu Picchu 4-day hike is considered moderately challenging. It involves trekking at high altitudes and varying terrains. Good physical fitness and acclimatization are essential.

How Is Altitude Sickness Managed?

Altitude sickness can affect trekkers at higher elevations, especially during the Machu Picchu 4 day hike, which reaches altitudes of up to 4,215 meters (13,829 feet) at the highest point. Acclimatization is key to preventing and managing altitude sickness. The itinerary is carefully designed to allow gradual adaptation, with strategic stops at different altitudes. Adequate hydration and proper rest are crucial throughout the trek to minimize the effects of altitude and ensure a safer and more enjoyable journey.

What Is the Best Time to Embark on This Hike?

• The optimal time for the Machu Picchu 4-day hike is during the dry season, from May to October. This period offers clear skies and pleasant temperatures, enhancing the overall trekking experience.

Do I Need a Guide for the Machu Pichu 4 day Hike?

• Yes, it is mandatory to have a certified guide for the Machu Picchu trek. Guides ensure your safety, provide valuable insights, and help you navigate the trail effectively.

Are Permits Required for the Machu Picchu 4 day Hike?

• Yes, permits are required for the Inca Trail, including the 4-day trek. These permits have limited availability, so it’s advisable to book in advance to secure your spot.

What Accommodations Are Provided During the Hike?

• Accommodations typically include comfortable tents for camping along the trail. Some tours offer upgraded options with better amenities. It’s essential to check with your tour provider regarding specific arrangements.

Is Machu Picchu the Only Highlight of the Hike?

• While Machu Picchu is the ultimate destination, the 4-day hike offers various other scenic highlights. You’ll pass through diverse landscapes, ancient Inca ruins, and witness breathtaking views of the Andes.