PRIVATE CLASSIC INCA TRAIL TO MACHU PICCHU
YOUR TRAIL. YOUR PACE. YOUR PRIVATE JOURNEY.
Walk one of the world’s most legendary trails in a way that feels truly personal, following approximately 44 km / 27.3 miles of the ancient Qhapaq Ñan with your own private guide, dedicated trekking team, and personalized service. Over four unforgettable days, journey through spectacular Andean valleys, ancient stone stairways, dramatic mountain passes, extraordinary Inca archaeological sites, and mysterious cloud forests as you follow the footsteps of the Incas toward Machu Picchu. Reach Warmiwañusqa – Dead Woman’s Pass at 4,215 m / 13,829 ft, discover remarkable places such as Patallacta, Runkurakay, Sayacmarca, Phuyupatamarca, and Wiñay Wayna, and experience the freedom to enjoy the trail at your group’s natural rhythm—with time to stop for photographs, explore, ask questions, or simply take in the silence of the Andes. Then, after four days of walking an ancient path through breathtaking landscapes, arrive at Inti Punku – the Sun Gate, where, when conditions allow, Machu Picchu reveals itself beneath the surrounding mountains.
WHEN SHOULD I BOOK MY PRIVATE CLASSIC INCA TRAIL?
SECURE YOUR PRIVATE INCA TRAIL ADVENTURE
The Classic Inca Trail has limited permits available each day, and every permit is assigned to a specific traveler and departure date. Because popular dates can sell out months in advance, booking early gives you the best chance of securing your preferred travel date and private departure.
MAY – AUGUST
6–10 MONTHS IN ADVANCE
This is the most popular trekking season, with generally dry conditions and high demand for permits. We strongly recommend booking as early as possible, especially for June, July, and August.
APRIL & SEPTEMBER – OCTOBER
4–8 MONTHS IN ADVANCE
Excellent months for trekking, with beautiful mountain scenery and strong demand for the Classic Inca Trail. If you have specific travel dates, reserving early is recommended.
NOVEMBER – JANUARY
3–6 MONTHS IN ADVANCE
A quieter period for trekking, but daily permits remain limited. Booking ahead gives you greater flexibility when choosing your preferred departure date.
FEBRUARY
TRAIL CLOSED
The Classic Inca Trail normally closes throughout February for annual maintenance and conservation work and generally reopens in March.
TRAVELING PRIVATELY? BOOK EARLY.
A private Classic Inca Trail is perfect for couples, families, friends, honeymooners, and small groups who want to experience the trail together with their own private guide and dedicated support team.
Once you know your preferred travel dates, contact Peru Hikers as soon as possible. Our team will help coordinate your permits, transportation, trekking team, accommodations, and other essential logistics.
THE EARLIER YOU BOOK, THE MORE CHOICE YOU HAVE.
Secure your preferred departure date, give yourself time to prepare, and get ready for one of the world’s most legendary journeys.
YOUR DATE. YOUR GROUP. YOUR PRIVATE JOURNEY.
Book early. Secure your permit. Prepare for the adventure.
WALK THE ORIGINAL INCA TRAIL.
EXPERIENCE THE ANDES.
ARRIVE AT MACHU PICCHU ON FOOT.
Peru Hikers — Journeys That Change You.
- Duration- 4 Days / 3 Nights
- Distance -44 km / 27.3 mi
- Highest Point -Warmiwañusqa – 4,215 m / 13,829 ft
- Difficulty- Challenging
- Accommodation- 3 nights camping Trek Style Private Starting Point Km 82
- Starting Altitude- 2,720 m / 8,924 ft
- Finish -Machu Picchu
- Operating Season- March–January
- February -Inca Trail closed annually
- Languages- English & Spanish
- Recommended -Acclimatization 2–3 full days
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WALK THE ANCIENT QHAPAQ ÑAN
Follow the footsteps of the Incas along the Qhapaq Ñan, the vast network of roads that once connected the Inca Empire. Walk across ancient stone pathways, climb centuries-old stairways, pass through tunnels, cross mountain slopes, and experience a trail that has connected the Andes for generations.
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DISCOVER THE INCAS’ SACRED SITES
The Classic Inca Trail is an archaeological journey as much as it is a mountain adventure. Along the route, discover remarkable Inca sites including:
Patallacta • Runkurakay • Sayacmarca • Phuyupatamarca • Wiñay Wayna
Your private guide will reveal the history, architecture, purpose, and cultural significance of these extraordinary places.
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CONQUER WARMIWAÑUSQA
Reach 4,215 m / 13,829 ft at Warmiwañusqa—Dead Woman’s Pass, the highest point of the Classic Inca Trail. The climb is demanding, but reaching the summit is one of the most rewarding moments of the trek. Stop, catch your breath, take in the incredible mountain views, and celebrate the accomplishment before descending into the valley beyond.
One mountain pass. One unforgettable achievement.
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EXPERIENCE THE ANDES IN CONSTANT TRANSFORMATION
Few journeys offer such dramatic changes in scenery within just a few days. Travel from green valleys and highland landscapes into rugged mountain terrain, across spectacular passes, and eventually into the lush cloud forest surrounding Machu Picchu. With every turn, the Andes reveal a different landscape.
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ENJOY FRESH MOUNTAIN CUISINE
After a rewarding day on the trail, a nourishing meal is part of the experience. Our professional trekking chef prepares fresh, flavorful, and energizing meals throughout your journey, helping you stay fueled for each day’s adventure. Enjoy the comfort of a delicious meal—even in the heart of the Andes.
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REST IN FULLY SUPPORTED CAMPS
When the day’s hiking is complete, your trekking team takes care of the camp so you can relax and recover. Our support crew handles the camping operation, meals, equipment, and logistics, allowing you to enjoy the adventure without having to worry about the details.
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REACH INTI PUNKU — THE SUN GATE
On the final stage of your trek, follow the ancient Inca Trail toward Inti Punku—Sun Gate. When conditions allow, your first spectacular views of Machu Picchu appear from the mountains, creating one of the most memorable moments of the entire journey. After days of walking through the Andes, history, and ancient landscapes, you finally see the destination ahead.
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ARRIVE AT MACHU PICCHU ON FOOT
There is a special feeling that comes with reaching Machu Picchu after walking the ancient Inca Trail.
You have not simply traveled to Machu Picchu—you have walked through the mountains, overcome the challenge, discovered the history, and earned your arrival. The trail becomes part of the story.
And the memories stay with you long after you leave Peru
WHY HIKE THE PRIVATE CLASSIC INCA TRAIL WITH PERU HIKERS?
YOUR TRAIL. YOUR GUIDE. YOUR JOURNEY.
Experience the Classic Inca Trail with a professional Peru Hikers private guide dedicated
exclusively to your group.
Go beyond the trail itself as your local guide shares the fascinating history, archaeology,
culture, traditions, and stories of the Andes—bringing the ancient world of the Incas to
life along the way.
WALK AT YOUR OWN PACE
A private Inca Trail gives you the freedom to enjoy the journey at a pace that feels right for your group.
Take time for photographs, pause to admire the scenery, ask questions, explore archaeological sites, or simply enjoy a quiet moment in the mountains. There is no need to rush—this is your journey.
A TEAM DEDICATED TO YOUR EXPERIENCE
An unforgettable trek takes more than a great guide. It takes a great team.
Your journey is supported by our professional guides, trekking chefs, support staff, and
Elite Inca Warriors, who work together behind the scenes to take care of camps, meals,
equipment, and logistics.
You focus on the trail. We take care of the rest.
LOCAL PEOPLE. AUTHENTIC KNOWLEDGE.
Peru Hikers is a 100% locally owned Cusco tour operator, with genuine roots in the
Andes.
Our team knows these mountains not simply as a destination, but as home. We are proud to
share the landscapes, history, traditions, and culture that make this region so special.
When you hike with us, you experience the Inca Trail through local eyes.
MORE THAN A HIKE
The Classic Inca Trail is not simply a route to Machu Picchu.
It is a journey through ancient history, sacred landscapes, spectacular mountains, and
living Andean culture. With a private guide by your side, you have more opportunities to
understand the places you encounter and appreciate the stories behind them.
TRUSTED BY TRAVELERS
From your first contact with us to your final steps into Machu Picchu, our goal is to provide
personal attention, reliable service, and an experience you will remember for a
lifetime.
Peru Hikers has earned strong ratings and reviews on Tripadvisor and Google, reflecting
the care we put into every journey.
MADE FOR YOUR PEOPLE
A private Classic Inca Trail is perfect for couples, families, friends, honeymooners,bphoto graphers, and special celebrations.
Travel exclusively with your own group, share every challenge and discovery together, and create memories that belong to you.
ITINERARY
DAY 1 — CUSCO → KM 82 → PATALLACTA → HUAYLLABAMBA
THE JOURNEY BEGINS — Your private Inca Trail adventure begins early with an approximately 4:30 AM pickup from your hotel in Cusco or an agreed location in the Sacred Valley. Travel by private transportation through the spectacular Sacred Valley toward Ollantaytambo before continuing to Km 82, the official starting point of the Classic Inca Trail. Here, you will meet your dedicated trekking team, organize your equipment, enjoy breakfast, and complete the official checkpoint procedures. Your original passport is required. After crossing the Urubamba River, your first steps onto the legendary Qhapaq Ñan begin. The trail initially passes through agricultural fields and Andean communities, offering beautiful views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. Along the way, your private guide will share the history, culture, and significance of the landscapes around you, helping you understand not only where you are walking, but why this ancient route was so important to the Inca civilization. One of the major highlights of the day is Patallacta, an impressive Inca settlement surrounded by extensive agricultural terraces. After lunch, continue gradually uphill toward the Huayllabamba area. Upon reaching camp, enjoy a warm drink and time to relax while your trekking team prepares a delicious dinner, marking the end of your first unforgettable day on the Inca Trail.
DAY 1 DETAILS
- Distance: Approx. 11 km / 6.8 mi
- Walking Time: Approx. 6–7 hours
- Starting Altitude: 2,720 m / 8,924 ft
- Camp Altitude: Approx. 3,000–3,300 m / 9,843–10,827 ft
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Highlight: Patallacta & Sacred Valley landscapes
- Meals: Breakfast, lunch, afternoon tea & dinner
PERU HIKERS TIP: Don’t rush your first day. Establish a comfortable walking rhythm,
stay hydrated, and save energy for tomorrow’s climb.
DAY 2 — HUAYLLABAMBA → LLULLUCHAPAMPA → WARMIWAÑUSQA → PACAYMAYO
CONQUER THE HIGHEST POINT OF THE INCA TRAIL — Wake to the crisp Andean mountain air and enjoy a warm drink before breakfast as you prepare for the most physically demanding day of the Classic Inca Trail. The trail climbs steadily through changing landscapes and vegetation toward Llulluchapampa, the final grassy meadow before the highest pass, before continuing upward toward the legendary Warmiwañusqa – Dead Woman’s Pass. At 4,215 m / 13,829 ft, you will reach the highest point of the entire trek. There is no prize for reaching the summit first; your private guide will help your group manage energy, breathing, hydration, and rest stops, allowing you to find your own rhythm and enjoy the journey. Take your time. Catch your breath. Look back across the mountains. Celebrate the achievement. After reaching the pass, begin the long descent through ancient Inca stairways toward the Pacaymayo Valley, where your trekking team will be waiting at camp. Enjoy a warm afternoon tea, take time to relax and recover, and soak in the incredible sense of accomplishment before a well-deserved dinner.
DAY 2 DETAILS
- Distance: Approx. 12 km / 7.5 mi
- Walking Time: Approx. 7–9 hours
- Highest Point: 4,215 m / 13,829 ft
- Camp: Pacaymayo Valley
- Difficulty: Challenging
- Highlight: Warmiwañusqa – Dead Woman’s Pass
- Meals: Breakfast, lunch, afternoon tea & dinner
PERU HIKERS TIP: Use controlled steps on the long descent. Trekking poles with rubber tips can provide valuable support on steep Inca stairways.
DAY 3 — PACAYMAYO → RUNKURAKAY → SAYACMARCA → PHUYUPATAMARCA → WIÑAY WAYNA
THE DAY OF ANCIENT CITIES — For many travelers, Day 3 is the most spectacular day of the Classic Inca Trail, combining archaeological wonders, mountain passes, original Inca roads, ancient stone stairways, tunnels, and mystical cloud forest. After breakfast, begin climbing toward Runkurakay, a fascinating circular Inca structure overlooking the Pacaymayo Valley, then continue across another mountain pass before descending toward Sayacmarca, dramatically positioned above the surrounding cloud forest. As you continue along the trail, the landscape transforms as high-altitude vegetation gives way to moss-covered trees, lush vegetation, mist, ancient tunnels, and increasingly tropical scenery. Eventually, you reach Phuyupatamarca, often translated as the Town Above the Clouds, where terraces, ceremonial fountains, stone structures, and a dramatic mountain setting create one of the most memorable moments of the journey. From here, descend deeper into the cloud forest toward spectacular Wiñay Wayna – Forever Young, an extraordinary Inca site whose extensive agricultural terraces, ceremonial structures, and sophisticated water channels showcase the remarkable engineering and ingenuity of the Inca civilization. As evening arrives, settle into your final night on the Inca Trail, surrounded by the sounds and atmosphere of the cloud forest, and celebrate the incredible journey you have completed so far. Tomorrow, Machu Picchu awaits.
DAY 3 DETAILS
- Distance: Approx. 16 km / 9.9 mi
- Walking Time: Approx. 8–10 hours
- Highest Point: Approx. 3,950 m / 12,959 ft
- Terrain: Mountain passes, stone stairways, tunnels & cloud forest
- Difficulty: Challenging
- Highlights: Runkurakay, Sayacmarca, Phuyupatamarca & Wiñay Wayna
- Meals: Breakfast, lunch, afternoon tea & dinner
Important: The final campsite is subject to the official campsite assignment for your departure.
DAY 4 — WIÑAY WAYNA → INTI PUNKU → MACHU PICCHU → CUSCO
THE MOMENT YOU CAME FOR — Your final morning begins before sunrise as you enjoy breakfast, prepare your daypack, and complete the official checkpoint procedures before setting off on the final section of the Inca Trail. The anticipation builds with every step as you continue through the cloud forest toward the final staircase leading to Inti Punku – the Sun Gate. And then comes the moment you have been walking toward for four days: MACHU PICCHU. When weather conditions allow, the legendary citadel appears before you, surrounded by dramatic green mountains and drifting clouds. There is no road bringing you here, no train arriving beneath you — you have reached Machu Picchu the ancient way: on foot. Take time with your private guide to appreciate the spectacular view and capture unforgettable photographs before continuing toward the citadel. Your guide will then lead your visit according to the official circuit assigned to your Inca Trail entrance, sharing the history, architecture, terraces, engineering, temples, and sacred relationship between Machu Picchu and the surrounding mountains. After your visit, take the bus down to Aguas Calientes, where you can enjoy free time and lunch on your own before boarding your tourist train to Ollantaytambo. Upon arrival, your private Peru Hikers transportation will be waiting to take you comfortably back to your hotel in Cusco, bringing an unforgettable four-day journey through the Andes to its final chapter.
DAY 4 DETAILS
- Walking Distance: Approx. 5 km / 3.1 mi + Machu Picchu visit
- Start: Before dawn according to official procedures
- Machu Picchu Altitude: 2,430 m / 7,972 ft
- Terrain: Cloud forest, stone steps & archaeological pathways
- Main Highlight: Entering Machu Picchu through Inti Punku
- Breakfast: Included
- Lunch: Not included
- Return: Tourist train + private transportation to Cusco
What's Included & Not Included
WHAT'S INCLUDED
BEFORE YOUR TREK
- Pre-trek briefing with your private professional guide
- Assistance with preparation and packing
- Classic Inca Trail permit
- Machu Picchu entrance associated with your trek
- Hotel pickup from central Cusco or agreed Sacred Valley location
- Private transportation to Km 82
- Complete operational support from Peru Hikers
CAMPING EQUIPMENT
- Quality trekking tents
- Dining tent
- Kitchen tent
- Tables and stools
- Cooking equipment
- Foam sleeping mat
- Portable toilet tent when included in your confirmed service
- Daily warm washing water
SAFETY & SUPPORT
- First-aid kit
- Emergency oxygen
- Emergency communication procedures
- Daily wellbeing monitoring
YOUR PRIVATE TREKKING TEAM
- Dedicated professional English-speaking local guide
- Assistant guide when required by regulations or group size
- Professional trekking chef
- Kitchen support team
- Elite Inca Warriors – professional porter team
- Porter service according to applicable weight regulations
- Staff meals and transportation
- Staff permits and expedition equipment
FOOD & WATER
- Daily trekking breakfasts
- Lunches on Days 1–3
- Afternoon teas
- Dinners on Days 1–3
- Freshly prepared trekking meals
- Vegetarian and vegan options
- Common dietary requirements with advance notice
- Boiled drinking water once camp kitchen operations are established
- Hot drinks and traditional Andean infusions
MACHU PICCHU & RETURN
- Guided Machu Picchu experience with your private guide
- Visit according to the official circuit assigned to your trek
- Bus from Machu Picchu to Aguas Calientes
- Tourist train to Ollantaytambo
- Private transportation from Ollantaytambo to your Cusco hotel
NOT INCLUDED
- International or domestic flights
- Accommodation before or after the trek
- Lunch in Aguas Calientes on Day 4
- Sleeping bag
- Inflatable sleeping mattress
- Trekking poles
- Personal daypack
- Travel and medical insurance
- Personal medication
- Personal snacks and beverages
- Additional porter allowance beyond your confirmed service
- Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain entrance unless specifically added
- Expenses caused by circumstances outside Peru Hikers’ control
- Voluntary gratuities
OPTIONAL RENTALS & UPGRADES
- SLEEPING BAG — US$30 A four-season sleeping bag suitable for cool Andean nights.
- TREKKING POLES — US$25 Adjustable trekking poles with protective rubber tips for additional support on ascents, descents, and Inca stone stairways.
- INFLATABLE MATTRESS — US$25 Additional insulation and comfort during your three nights of camping.
- VISTADOME TRAIN UPGRADE — US$65 Upgrade your return journey with panoramic windows and spectacular Sacred Valley views, subject to train schedule and availability.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
IS THIS TREK COMPLETELY PRIVATE?
Yes. Your Classic Inca Trail departure is organized exclusively for the travelers included in
your private booking. You will have your own dedicated guide and trekking support
team, rather than joining unrelated travelers.
CAN WE WALK AT OUR OWN PACE?
Yes. A private departure provides greater flexibility with your trekking pace. Your guide
can adapt the rhythm, rest stops, and daily timing to your group while respecting official
checkpoints, campsite assignments, operating hours, safety requirements, and Inca Trail
regulations.
DO WE STILL NEED INCA TRAIL PERMITS?
Yes. Private service does not bypass official regulations. Every traveler must have an
official, date-specific Inca Trail permit, and permits are limited each day.
HOW DIFFICULT IS THE CLASSIC INCA TRAIL?
The Classic Inca Trail is considered challenging. The trek covers approximately 44 km /
27 miles over four days, including steep climbs, long descents, high-altitude sections, and
thousands of ancient stone steps. Good physical preparation and proper acclimatization are
strongly recommended.
HOW MANY HOURS DO WE HIKE EACH DAY?
Hiking times vary depending on the day’s route, group pace, weather, and trail conditions.
Generally, expect approximately 5–8 hours of trekking per day, including rest stops,
meals, and time to explore archaeological sites.
DO WE CARRY ALL OUR LUGGAGE?
No. You will hike with a daypack containing the items you need during the day. Our
permitted trekking support team carries your personal duffel between camps, allowing you
to enjoy the trail with less weight.
WHAT SHOULD I PACK IN MY DAYPACK?
We recommend carrying water, snacks, sunscreen, a rain jacket, warm layers, personal
medications, your camera or phone, and other essentials you may need during the day.
Your larger belongings can remain in your duffel.
CAN DIETARY REQUIREMENTS BE ACCOMMODATED?
Yes. Vegetarian, vegan, and many common dietary requirements can be
accommodated when requested in advance. Please inform our team of any dietary
restrictions when booking.
CAN CHILDREN JOIN A PRIVATE INCA TRAIL?
Some active children can successfully complete the trek, but the Classic Inca Trail is
physically demanding. Age, fitness, previous hiking experience, altitude
acclimatization, and motivation should all be considered before booking.
ARE TOILETS AVAILABLE ALONG THE TRAIL?
Basic toilet facilities are available at designated locations and campsites, although
conditions vary. Depending on your confirmed service, a portable toilet tent may also be
available.
CAN I SHOWER ALONG THE INCA TRAIL?
Shower facilities are very limited and conditions vary between campsites. We recommend
preparing for a trek where access to hot showers is not guaranteed.
CAN I CHARGE MY PHONE OR CAMERA?
There are no reliable charging facilities along most of the trail. We recommend bringing a
fully charged power bank and spare batteries if necessary.
IS THERE PHONE OR WI-FI SIGNAL?
Connectivity is limited and unreliable along much of the Inca Trail. Some areas may have
occasional mobile signal, but you should not depend on having internet access during the
trek.
WHAT HAPPENS IF THE WEATHER CHANGES?
Weather in the Andes can change quickly. Rain, cold temperatures, strong sun, fog, or other
conditions may affect the experience and daily operations. Your guide and trekking team
will make decisions based on safety, trail conditions, and official regulations.
CAN THE ITINERARY CHANGE?
Yes. Operational changes may occasionally be necessary because of weather, trail
conditions, official campsite assignments, railway operations, emergencies,
government instructions, or other circumstances beyond our control. Safety and
official regulations always come first.
DO I NEED TRAVEL INSURANCE?
Travel insurance is strongly recommended for the Classic Inca Trail. Your policy should
ideally cover trekking at high altitude, medical emergencies, evacuation, trip interruption,
and other unexpected situations.
DO I NEED TO ACCLIMATIZE BEFORE THE TREK?
Yes. Proper acclimatization is important because the Classic Inca Trail reaches high
elevations. We recommend spending at least 2–3 full days in the Cusco region before
beginning the trek and avoiding strenuous activity immediately after arriving at altitude.
CAN WE ADD HUAYNA PICCHU OR MACHU PICCHU MOUNTAIN?
Additional mountain entrances require separate tickets and depend on availability,
scheduling, and compatibility with your assigned Machu Picchu circuit. If you would like
to add Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain, we recommend requesting it as early
as possible.
WHAT HAPPENS AFTER WE REACH MACHU PICCHU?
After your guided visit to Machu Picchu, you will descend by bus to Aguas Calientes,
where you will have time for lunch and relaxation before boarding your train. Upon arrival
at Ollantaytambo, your private Peru Hikers transportation will be waiting to take you back
to your hotel in Cusco or the Sacred Valley.
CAN WE REQUEST A PRIVATE DEPARTURE FOR JUST TWO PEOPLE?
Yes. Private departures can be arranged for couples, families, friends, honeymooners,
and small groups, subject to permit availability and the applicable service arrangements.
WHEN SHOULD WE BOOK OUR PRIVATE INCA TRAIL?
We recommend booking as early as possible, particularly for May through August, when
demand is highest. Because permits are limited and tied to specific travelers and dates,
early booking gives you the greatest choice of departure dates.
WHAT MAKES A PRIVATE INCA TRAIL DIFFERENT?
A private trek gives your group a more personalized and flexible experience, with your
own guide and dedicated trekking team. You can share the journey exclusively with the
people you choose while enjoying greater flexibility with pacing, communication, and the
overall trekking experience
READY TO WALK THE INCA TRAIL YOUR WAY?
Choose your date. Bring your people. Walk the ancient Qhapaq Ñan. Arrive at
Machu Picchu on foot.
Peru Hikers — Journeys That Change You.
THE PERU HIKERS DIFFERENCE
LOCAL ROOTS. PRIVATE SERVICE. REAL CONNECTION.
Peru Hikers was born in Cusco, and our connection to these mountains is personal. Our founder, Daniel Mayta, grew up in the Sacred Valley, speaks Quechua, and began his journey in tourism as an Inca Trail porter before becoming a professional guide and local tour operator.
That experience continues to shape the way we operate today. Our Elite Inca Warriors are at the heart of every expedition. They carry equipment, establish camps, support the trekking operation, and help make your journey possible behind the scenes.
They are more than porters.
They are the backbone of our expeditions and an important part of the Peru Hikers family. When you choose a private Inca Trail with Peru Hikers, you receive more than exclusivity. You receive the opportunity to walk these ancient paths with a local team, experience the trail at a more personal rhythm, ask questions, connect with the Andes, and discover the Inca Trail beyond the usual viewpoint.
ADVENTURE. CONNECTION. TRANSFORMATION.
READY FOR YOUR PRIVATE INCA TRAIL?
YOUR TRAIL. YOUR TEAM. YOUR JOURNEY.
TRAVEL INFORMATION
Your private guide normally meets you around 6:30 PM the evening before your trek, either at our office or your hotel.
PRE-TREK BRIEFING
Your private guide normally meets you around 6:30 PM the evening before your trek,
either at our office or your hotel.
During the briefing, your guide reviews:
- Trekking itinerary
- Packing requirements
- Equipment
- Transportation
- Trail logistics
- Meals
- Campsites
- Your questions
You will also receive your trekking duffel.
DUFFEL BAG
Peru Hikers provides a trekking duffel for your personal belongings.
Our Elite Inca Warriors transport the permitted weight between camps so you can hike with a lighter daypack.
Personal duffel allowance: up to 7 kg / 15 lb, including sleeping bag and inflatable mattress when applicable.
WEATHER
Andean weather can change rapidly.
You should be prepared for:
- Sunshine
- Rain
- Wind
- Cold temperatures
- Strong mountain conditions
- Rapid changes throughout the day
Layers and waterproof protection are essential.
DUFFEL BAG
Peru Hikers provides a trekking duffel for your personal belongings.
Our Elite Inca Warriors transport the permitted weight between camps so you can hike with a lighter daypack.
Personal duffel allowance: up to 7 kg / 15 lb, including sleeping bag and inflatable mattress when applicable.
ACCLIMATIZATION
The highest point of the trek reaches 4,215 m / 13,829 ft.
We strongly recommend spending at least 2–3 full days in Cusco or the Sacred Valley before beginning the Inca Trail.
WHAT TO PACK
ESSENTIAL DOCUMENTS
- Original passport
- Travel insurance information
- Emergency contacts
- Some Peruvian soles
DUFFEL
- Hiking shirts
- Hiking trousers
- Optional shorts
- Thermal layers
- Fleece
- Insulated jacket
- Underwear
- Hiking socks
- Sleeping clothes
- Camp shoes
- Clean clothing for Machu Picchu
FOOTWEAR
Bring comfortable, well-broken-in hiking boots with good traction.
Never start the Classic Inca Trail wearing brand-new hiking boots.
DAYPACK
We recommend a 20–25 L backpack with:
- Rain cover
- 2–3 L water capacity
- Rain jacket or poncho
- Waterproof trousers
- Fleece or insulated jacket
- Sun hat
- Beanie
- Gloves
- Sunglasses
- Sunscreen
- Lip balm
- Insect repellent
- Personal medication
- Blister treatment
- Hand sanitizer
- Tissues
- Toilet paper
- Headlamp
- Camera/phone
- Power bank
- Personal snacks
WEATHER
Andean weather can change rapidly.
You should be prepared for:
- Sunshine
- Rain
- Wind
- Cold temperatures
- Strong mountain conditions
- Rapid changes throughout the day
Layers and waterproof protection are essential.
