Inca Trail to Machu Picchu + Huayna Picchu Mountain in 4 days / 3 nights

A Complete Guide to the 4-Day Inca Trail to Machu Picchu + Huayna Picchu

Planning a trek along the famous Inca Trail can feel daunting, but the right tour makes all the difference. For those seeking a mix of breathtaking mountain vistas, ancient Inca ruins, and the thrill of reaching Machu Picchu before the crowds, this 4-day/3-night journey is a standout option. Costing around $860 per person, it offers everything from expert guiding, high-quality camping gear, to delicious all-inclusive meals. The tour is popular — booked on average 54 days in advance — and rated 5.0 by nearly 60 travelers, with a 98% recommendation rate.

Two things we particularly love about this trip are the personalized service from knowledgeable guides—highlighted by glowing reviews—and the chance to climb Huayna Picchu for a panoramic view that’s simply unforgettable. The tour’s well-structured itinerary balances manageable walking days with impressive archaeological stops, making it accessible for most physically active travelers.

A possible consideration is the group size, which is limited to a maximum of 12 people, making it intimate but requiring early booking. Also, you’ll want to pack or rent appropriate gear like a sleeping bag and walking sticks to ensure comfort on some challenging parts. This tour suits those with a good fitness level who crave authentic Inca experiences, stunning scenery, and the camaraderie of a small group led by local experts.

Key Points

• Authentic Experience: Guided by local Peruvians who provide rich insights into Inca history and culture.
• Stunning Scenery: From mountain peaks to lush cloud forests, the views along this trail are unforgettable.
• All-Inclusive Meals: Enjoy high-quality, prepared meals with vegetarian and special diet options.
• Expert Guides & Porters: Knowledgeable guides, well-trained porters, and cooks ensure smooth logistics.
• Unique Highlights: Climb Huayna Picchu for sweeping views, and witness Machu Picchu at sunrise.
• Limited Group Size: Small groups (max 12) foster personalized attention and a more intimate experience.

The Journey Begins: What to Expect on the Inca Trail

The adventure kicks off early, with a 6:00 am pickup in Cusco. We loved how smoothly the logistics were handled, with the tour company collecting us from our hotel — or even from Sacred Valley accommodations if that’s where you stay. The four-hour scenic drive through the Sacred Valley is a treat, with views of the Urubamba River and towering peaks setting the tone for what’s to come.

Day 1: The Walk Starts
We arrived at Piscacucho (Km. 82), where the trek officially begins. Our team of native Quechua porters unloaded camping gear, which would be carried for us, so we could focus on enjoying the walk. The first day is quite manageable — a gentle climb crossing a suspension bridge over the Urubamba River, followed by a visit to Patallacta, an impressive Inca-era agricultural town with terraces.

One reviewer, Myriam, raved about her guide Paul, praising the “excellent person” and the team’s effort to maximize the experience. The first day’s walk, about 2 hours, sets a comfortable pace, giving you time to soak in your surroundings.

Day 2: The Hardest Challenge
This day is infamous for its physical challenge: the climb to Dead Woman’s Pass (4,200 meters), the trail’s highest point. We appreciated the coca tea service early in the morning — a small but thoughtful gesture to help with altitude adjustment. The ascent to the pass takes about 4 hours, crossing cloud forests and snowy peaks like Veronica.

It’s a tough push, but the views and the sense of achievement make it worthwhile. Reviewers like Kant noted, “The food, guides, and scenery are incredible; the experience is worth every step.” From Llulluchapampa (at 3,600 meters), the trail descends into the Pacaymayo Valley, where the camp feels like a well-earned refuge after a demanding day.

Day 3: Archaeology and Cloud Forests
The third day is a treasure trove of Inca sites, including Runkuracay, Sayacmarca, and Phuyupatamarca. The trail weaves through lush cloud forests filled with orchids and mosses, with plenty of opportunities for photos. The guides’ explanations bring these ruins to life — you’ll learn about their strategic locations and sophisticated water systems.

While the trek involves some steep descents and ascents, the arrival at Wiñay Wayna, the last campsite, is a highlight. The evening includes a special ceremony and a final, delicious dinner, as described by a reviewer who appreciated the personal touch and the opportunity to reflect on the journey.

Day 4: Reaching Machu Picchu
The final day begins pre-dawn at 4:00 am, with a quick breakfast before heading to the Sun Gate (Inti Punku). We loved the anticipation of seeing Machu Picchu emerge at sunrise — a moment many travelers say is worth waking early for. The walk from Wiñay Wayna to the gate takes around 1 hour and 20 minutes, and the panoramic views from the Sun Gate are breathtaking.

Soon after, you descend into Machu Picchu itself, where the guide offers a 2-hour tour of the site’s most iconic spots. Post-tour, the climb to Huayna Picchu is a major highlight for many, offering unmatched views of the ruins and surrounding mountains.

A Full Day of Exploration and Reflection
After exploring Machu Picchu and climbing Huayna Picchu, there’s time to relax, have lunch, and explore the town of Aguas Calientes. The return train to Ollantaytambo, followed by a bus back to Cusco, wraps up the experience. The long day ends around 10:00 pm — a full, rewarding adventure.

Why This Tour Offers Great Value

This tour provides much more than just a hike — it’s a comprehensive package that balances physical challenge with cultural discovery. The all-inclusive meals, high-quality camping gear, and professional guides mean we could focus on enjoying the surroundings without worrying about logistics. The guided tours of archaeological sites enrich the experience, turning stones and ruins into stories.

The fact that the trip is organized by a local company practicing sustainable tourism adds an ethical appeal. Many reviews mention the helpfulness and friendliness of the guides and staff, making the trek feel personal rather than impersonal.

Cost-wise, $860 isn’t cheap, but it covers nearly everything — meals, permits, transport, camping equipment, and guiding — which makes it a good deal when you consider the value of a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Plus, you get the thrill of seeing Machu Picchu at sunrise, the climb of Huayna Picchu, and the chance to walk in the footsteps of the Incas.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

If you’re looking for an authentic, well-organized trek with expert guides and the chance to visit Machu Picchu early and with fewer crowds, this tour fits the bill. It’s ideal for active travelers comfortable with some elevation gain and rugged terrain. The small group size ensures personalized attention, which many previous travelers appreciated.

This trip is also perfect for history buffs and photography enthusiasts eager to capture the ruins and mountain vistas in natural light. Foodies will enjoy the high-quality, all-inclusive meals, including vegetarian options.

If you want a stress-free, immersive experience that combines adventure, culture, and stunning scenery, this tour is worth booking well in advance — it’s a bucket-list experience that delivers on its promises.

Frequently Asked Questions

How early should I book this tour?
Since the tour is booked on average 54 days in advance, it’s best to plan ahead to secure your spot, especially if you want Huayna Picchu access or travel during peak seasons.

What is included in the price?
The $860 includes all permits, guided tours, meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner, and tea), camping equipment, porters, and transportation from Cusco to the trailhead. It also covers the train ticket from Aguas Calientes back to Ollantaytambo.

Are vegetarian or special diets accommodated?
Yes, the tour offers vegetarian, vegan, and other dietary options upon request, with high-quality meals prepared by professional cooks.

What should I bring?
While most camping gear is provided, you should bring personal items like a backpack, clothes suitable for mountain weather, a hat, sunscreen, and any personal toiletries. You can rent a sleeping bag and walking sticks at the tour office if needed.

How difficult is the trek?
The route includes some challenging climbs, especially to Dead Woman’s Pass, but the pace is manageable, and support staff is available. A moderate physical fitness level is recommended.

What is the group size?
The maximum group size is 12, fostering a more intimate experience and personalized guiding.

Can I climb Huayna Picchu?
Yes, the tour includes the option to climb Huayna Picchu after the Machu Picchu guided tour, subject to availability and additional permit.

In Summary

This 4-day Inca Trail to Machu Picchu with Huayna Picchu combines adventure with cultural insight in a well-organized package. The knowledgeable guides, stunning scenery, and delicious, all-inclusive meals make it a great choice for travelers who value authenticity and comfort. Although physically demanding, the experience is deeply rewarding, especially for those eager to see Machu Picchu early and with fewer travelers around.

Ideal for active travelers, history enthusiasts, and photogenic explorers, this tour offers a truly immersive look into one of the world’s most iconic archaeological sites. Book early, pack well, and prepare for a journey that will likely be a highlight of your travels in Peru.