Inca Trail 2027 - Limited permits. Plan early with Apple Travel Peru.
Check availability4 Days / 3 Nights
Join us for an unforgettable journey along the world famous Inca Trail, culminating in your first sighting of Machu Picchu through the Sun Gate (Inti Punku). Over four days, you will hike from Km 82 through the high Andes, explore ancient archaeological sites, cross Dead Woman’s Pass at 4,215 meters (13,829 feet), and descend into the cloud forest before entering the lost city of the Incas.
At Apple Travel Peru, we handle every detail so you can focus on the experience. All essentials, including trail permits, professional guide service, porters, camping gear, freshly prepared meals, entrance fees, train tickets, and private transfers are fully included. Experienced local guides act as supportive companions throughout the route, while dedicated porters handle all camp setup and logistics.
Access to the Classic Inca Trail is limited by the Peruvian government, with a maximum capacity of 500 users per day, including trekkers and authorised support staff. The trail also requires a permit and must be booked through an authorised operator.
Because permits are limited, we recommend booking several months in advance, especially if you plan to trek during the popular dry-season months from April to October.
Group or Private
Trekking, Adventure and Cultural
Up to 8
Camping
Moderate to Challenging
4 Days / 3 Nights
Classic Inca Trail to Machu Picchu 4 days
Your 4-day Classic Inca Trail trek begins with a pickup from your accommodation in Cusco, Urubamba, or Ollantaytambo. Exact pickup time is confirmed during the pre-trek briefing.
After breakfast, travel to Ollantaytambo, where you’ll meet your porter team, who will support you throughout the trek.
Your hike begins at Km 82, where you pass the first official Inca Trail checkpoint. Your original passport is required to enter the trail.
The initial 2-hour hike follows gentle terrain and leads directly to Patallacta, an important Inca site strategically positioned along the original route to Machu Picchu.
Following your visit to Patallacta, you’ll continue hiking for approximately 2 hours to reach the lunch stop.
By afternoon, your path continues for another 2.5 hours toward Ayapata Camp (3,300 m / 10,826 ft). Along the way, you pass through small local communities where snacks, drinks, and basic supplies are available.
Hikers arrive at camp around 5:00 PM, with time to relax, enjoy a hot drink and afternoon snack, and connect with your guides, chefs, and porters.
We serve dinner around 7:30 PM, followed by a well-earned rest under the Andean sky.
The second day begins early and is your longest and most challenging day on the trail. Your porters will gently wake you with a hot cup of coca tea, giving you time to prepare before hiking.
The morning ascent takes approximately 4 hours to reach Dead Woman’s Pass (4,215 m / 13,829 ft), the highest point of the trek. At the summit, take a short break to rest, rehydrate and enjoy expansive views of the surrounding Andes.
From the pass, you will begin the descent into the Pacaymayu Valley, also known as the Hidden River Valley.
After about 1.5 hours downhill, you reach your lunch stop, with time to relax, refill water bottles, and regain energy before the afternoon climb.
Following lunch, the trail ascends again toward the second pass, a climb of approximately 2 hours. Along the way, stop at the small Inca site of Runcu Raccay, with views across the valley toward two cascading waterfalls.
Beyond the pass, a scenic one-hour descent brings you to Sayacmarca, a dramatic cliffside Inca fortress reachable only by a single stone staircase. Take time to explore this otherwise inaccessible ruin with your guide before enjoying a well-earned rest.
As the day winds down, weather permitting, take in a sunset over the Vilcabamba mountain range, one of the most memorable moments of the trek.
A final 20-minute walk brings you to Chaquicocha Camp (3,600 m / 11,811 ft), your campsite for the night.
Once dinner finishes, step outside to take in the brilliant southern night sky. If you are up for it, your guides will show you ancient Inca constellations far from city lights.
Fresh off the most challenging stretch of the trek, Day 3 kicks off at 6:30 AM with what many consider the most breathtaking scenery along the entire Inca Trail.
The morning hike follows approximately 2 hours of gradual terrain, often called “Inca flat”, as the trail transitions into the Cloud Forest. Along the way, enjoy panoramic views of the Vilcabamba mountain range and, on clear days, sightlines to Salkantay, the second-highest snow-capped peak in the Sacred Valley.
Toward the end of the flat section, the trail climbs to Phuyupatamarka (3,600 m / 11,811 ft), the “Town in the Clouds”. From here, take in sweeping views over the Urubamba River and catch your first glimpse of Machu Picchu Mountain, while the citadel itself remains hidden.
The trail then descends for approximately 3 hours along stone staircases toward your final campsite near Wiñay Wayna. During the descent, you will visit two important Inca sites:
Arrive at Wiñay Wayna Camp around 1:00 PM for lunch and well-earned rest. This is the most popular campsite on the Inca Trail due to its proximity to Machu Picchu.
In the afternoon, your guide provides a short orientation, followed by a 1.5-hour guided visit to the impressive Wiñay Wayna ruins. Your guide will explain the site’s importance and tie together the historical and cultural context from the entire trek, preparing you fully for Machu Picchu the next day.
In the evening, enjoy a farewell dinner with your porters, chefs, and guides, a traditional moment on the Inca Trail. The team is formally introduced, giving you the opportunity to thank them for their support throughout the journey.
An early night is recommended, as the following day begins before dawn in order to reach Machu Picchu at sunrise, weather permitting.
The final day begins early with a 3:30 AM wake up call and breakfast at 4:00 AM. After breakfast, wait at the checkpoint to be among the first groups allowed on the trail when gates open at 5:30 AM.
You’ll say goodbye to your porters and chefs, then continue toward the Sun Gate (Inti Punku).
Reach the Sun Gate around 6:30 AM, where sweeping views of the surrounding mountains and Machu Picchu below await. From here, begin a 1-hour descent toward the citadel.
As you approach, the views become increasingly impressive. Around 7:40 AM, pass the final checkpoint and enter Machu Picchu.
Start with Circuit 1, offering elevated viewpoints over the citadel. Later, continue with Circuit 3, followed by a 2-hour guided tour covering Machu Picchu’s most important landmarks, including:
You’ll also explore the site’s agricultural, residential, and religious sectors, gaining a complete understanding of the city.
Once the tour finishes, you will receive your shuttle bus tickets for the descent to Aguas Calientes. Take some time to explore the town at your own pace or, if arranged in advance, complete the optional hike to Huayna Picchu. If you wish, your guide may join you in Aguas Calientes for an optional farewell lunch at a local restaurant.
In the afternoon, board your train from Aguas Calientes (departures between 2:30 PM and 3:45 PM). Upon arrival in Ollantaytambo or Poroy, an Apple Travel driver meets you at the station for your private vehicle transfer back to your Cusco hotel.
What Is Included
NOT INCLUDED
Review the options below if you wish to add extra peak hikes or train upgrades to your trek booking.
Huayna Picchu stands directly next to the citadel, offering a 45-minute climb to the summit. Although hikers complete the path independently, your guide accompanies you to the trail entry checkpoint. Booking requires an additional permit secured in advance.
Permit time slots run from either 7:00 to 8:00 AM or 10:00 to 11:00 AM. We reserve the 10:00 AM entry slot for our guests, allowing you to complete your main guided tour of Machu Picchu beforehand. Entry times designate your start window, giving you full flexibility to hike at your own pace.
Towering high above the ruins, this peak boasts panoramic views across the entire valley during a 90-minute ascent. Securing an additional entrance permit allows access to this trail.
Entry permits for this peak strictly enforce a 9:00 to 10:00 AM start time. Because of this limited window, completing the standard 4-Day Inca Trail and climbing Machu Picchu Mountain on the same morning is not logistically possible. Hikers must arrange an extra day in Aguas Calientes to complete this hike.
Standard tour bookings include return travel on the Expedition Train, typically departing Aguas Calientes at 4:22 PM. Upgrading to the Vistadome service provides larger seats, panoramic wrap-around windows, and onboard cultural presentations.
Vistadome departures usually run at 4:43 PM toward Poroy station. Private vehicle transfer from the train station directly to your Cusco hotel remains fully included with this upgrade.
Safety comes first on Warmiwañusca (4,215 m / 13,828 ft). If severe altitude sickness or exhaustion strikes, our team initiates an immediate, safe descent to a lower campsite like Ayapata or Pacaymayo.
Yes. While official campsites offer basic concrete squat toilets, Apple Travel Peru sets up private, chemical toilet tents exclusively for our group.
Peak dry season permits (May through August) routinely sell out 5 to 7 months in advance as soon as government release dates open.
Mobile phones easily survive the trek if kept on Airplane Mode alongside a 10,000 mAh to 20,000 mAh external power bank. Zero charging stations exist along the 4 day route.
Andean weather varies quickly across microclimates, requiring flexible packing for both warm sunshine and sudden mountain rain.
Flying to Cusco (CUZ) requires a few key travel steps depending on your origin route. Most international travelers transit through Lima (LIM), though direct international flights also operate from Santiago, Chile.
We host an orientation session at our Cusco office the evening before your trek departure. This 30 to 45 minute briefing covers final trail details, safety guidelines, and the distribution of your official duffel bag. If your arrival schedule conflicts with this time, notify our team in advance to coordinate an alternative briefing slot.
Our porters carry your duffel bag (measuring 66 cm x 36 cm) between campsites and deliver it directly to your tent each evening. Official regulations cap the total bag weight at 7 kg (14 lbs) per trekker. This allowance provides 4 kg for your personal clothing and items, with the remaining 3 kg reserved for your sleeping bag and pad.
We pick you up directly from your hotel if it’s located in the historic center of Cusco, Urubamba, or Ollantaytambo. Your guide confirms your exact pickup time during the pre-trek briefing, allowing a 30 to 45 minute window for morning traffic and local pickups.
Many narrow cobblestone streets in central Cusco restrict transport vans. Selecting a hotel on an accessible street makes departure much smoother, and our team is happy to send over a list of recommended properties.
Check the chart below for valid pickup locations based on your trek:
| Trek | Possible Starting Locations |
| Inca Trails | Cusco, Urubamba, Yunahuara & Ollantaytambo |
| Salkantay Treks | Cusco pickup only |
| Lares Trek | Pickup from Cusco |
| Huchuy Qosqo Trek | Cusco departure |
| Ausangate and Rainbow Treks | Cusco pickup |
| Day Tours | Cusco, Urubamba & Ollantaytambo |
Return travel from Machu Picchu back to your hotel in Cusco is completely managed by our team.
Climbing one of the peaks overlooking the citadel offers incredible panoramic views, but both require an extra permit purchased well in advance.
Honesty with your guide regarding health conditions is essential for trail safety. Guides hold certified first aid training, and our office collaborates directly with a medical clinic in Cusco for specialized care if required.
Trekkers must consult a physician prior to travel to confirm physical fitness for high altitude hiking and to receive medical guidance on necessary vaccinations. Assessing personal capability for each section of the trek remains the responsibility of every participant.
Joining a group tour means trekking alongside travelers with varying fitness levels and walking paces. You are encouraged to hike at your own comfortable rhythm; our lead and assistant guides divide time across the entire group to ensure everyone moves safely.
Keeping track of personal equipment throughout the trek remains the responsibility of each trekker. Check transport vans, dining tents, and campsites thoroughly before departing each location, as misplaced items along public trail sections can be difficult to recover.
Tipping is a traditional gesture on the Inca Trail, though it remains entirely optional. Apple Travel Peru pays fair, competitive wages to all staff, meaning tips serve as a personal thank you for exceptional service.
Groups typically pool tip money together for the porter and chef team on the final evening. Porters and chefs prefer tip contributions in Peruvian Soles, whereas guides accept Soles, U.S. Dollars, or electronic payments.
| Trek | Per Porter | Chef |
| Inca Trails (4, 5, and 7 Days) | 60 – 80 soles | 150 soles |
| 2D/1N Inca Trail with Camping | 50 soles | 100 soles |
| Salkantay Treks | 100-120 soles | 200 soles |
| Lares Trek | 100-120 soles | 200 soles |
| Huchuy Qosqo Trek | 50 soles | 100 soles |
| Ausangate | 100-120 soles | 200 soles |
Note: Table amounts reflect recommended total pooled amounts received by each individual staff member from the group.
Comprehensive travel insurance covering high altitude trekking up to 4,500 meters (14,763 feet) is strongly recommended for all expeditions. Adequate policy coverage protects your trip investment against unexpected medical emergencies, trip cancellations, or transport delays.
Porters carry up to 7 kg (14 lbs) per hiker. This total includes 3 kg reserved for your sleeping bag and pad, leaving 4 kg for your personal clothing and gear.
Small daypacks work best for trail comfort. Keep in mind that park regulations strictly forbid bags larger than 25L inside Machu Picchu. Anyone carrying an oversized backpack must leave it at the secure luggage storage station located at the citadel entrance.
January 10, 2024 · Apple Travel Peru
It was my best experience with Apple Travel. I had incredible excellent service. The team is very attentive and friendly.
Read moreOctober 21, 2022 · Apple Travel Peru
Incredible service and experience in Inca Trail 4 days travel. Everything was top of the notch. Thanks Ivanoe, my guide.
Read moreOctober 19, 2022 · Apple Travel Peru
The 2 day Inca Trail to Machu Picchu was everything I expected and more. Gorgeous from beginning to end. The tour guides were great and very knowledgeable.
Read moreOctober 11, 2022 · Apple Travel Peru
It was a great experience with all the team Apple Travel. I enjoyed my whole trip. Thanks a lot for being part of my vacation in Cusco.
Read moreMar 2026 · SAM Travel Peru
A very organized Salkantay experience with caring guides, strong support at altitude, and memorable food after long hiking days.
Read moreMar 2026 · SAM Travel Peru
The guide and chef made the trek feel safe, enjoyable, and personal, even when altitude made the journey challenging.
Read moreMar 2026 · SAM Travel Peru
A difficult hike became possible thanks to a patient guide who encouraged the group and helped through the hardest sections.
Read moreMar 2026 · SAM Travel Peru
The guide adapted the pace and itinerary well, combining knowledge, courtesy, and flexibility throughout the tour.
Read moreJan 29, 2026 · SAM Travel Peru
A smooth multi-day trip with patient guiding, careful logistics, clean transport, and thoughtful help at every site.
Read moreJan 29, 2026 · SAM Travel Peru
The experience exceeded expectations with a local guide whose knowledge and enthusiasm made the journey feel meaningful.
Read moreOct 29, 2025 · SAM Travel Peru
The guide brought history and culture to life while keeping the group comfortable and helping capture great memories.
Read moreFeb 29, 2026 · SAM Travel Peru
The team handled planning easily and adjusted the route around weather and walking ability without losing key highlights.
Read moreApril 21, 2024 · SAM Travel Peru
Expert guides, strong porters, and memorable meals helped turn a demanding trail into a remarkable group experience.
Read moreApril 18, 2024 · SAM Travel Peru
The guides kept the schedule smooth and attentive, making the first visit to Machu Picchu easy to recommend.
Read moreApril 9, 2024 · SAM Travel Peru
The guide, cook, and porter team brought great energy, answered questions, and even helped celebrate a birthday.
Read moreApril 17, 2024 · SAM Travel Peru
The guide respected a slower pace, shared useful knowledge, and made the route feel supportive and enjoyable.
Read more
Permits
