The 4-day Luxury Inca Trail to Machu Picchu is the ultimate luxury hiking experience. It combines stunning natural beauty with ancient wonders to create a journey you will never forget. You can enjoy the Peruvian Andes's beauty while following the ancient Inca Trail to the famous citadel. Enjoy the most luxurious and private accommodations on the trail while enjoying the stunning scenery and rich history. It's more than just a trek; it's an adventure through time that includes all the comforts of a glamping tour and leads to one of the most amazing sights in the world.
Luxury Inca Trail Tour 4 Days to Machu Picchu - Overview
The Luxury Inca Trail to Machu Picchu is one of the most amazing experiences you can undertake, comparable only with epic hikes like the Kilimanjaro, the Appalachian Trail, or the Mont Blanc tour. Our private Inca Trail luxury tour allows you to camp in remote areas, enjoy delicious Peruvian food and drinks, relax with our Inca Massage sessions, and participate in a Pachamama ceremony and Coca leaf reading ceremony.
Experience this one-of-a-kind combination of adventure, challenge, natural beauty, history, and glamour.
Tour Highlights:
- All equipment is included in this 4-day Glamping Experience
- Stay in spacious walk-in tents, dining tents, and massage tents
- Queen and twin-size camping cots and comfortable bedding
- Hot showers and massage sessions every afternoon
- Try the best of Peruvian gourmet cuisine on the route
- Arrive at Inca sites and Machu Picchu at exclusive hours
- Return on the exclusive Luxurious Observatory Trains
Inca Trail Luxury Tour at a Glance:
Day 1: Cusco – Km 82 – Wayllabamba (12km, 6hrs)
Pick-up from your hotel in Cusco (5:00 am) or Sacred Valley (7:00 am), followed by breakfast in Ollantaytambo. Begin the hike at Km 82 and walk 4 hours to Patallacta. Enjoy a freshly prepared picnic lunch, then continue 2 more hours to the campsite in Wayllabamba.
- Places we visit: Patallacta, Wayllabamba
- Experiences: Meet our trekking team, explore local villages
Day 2: Huayllabamba – Warmiwañusca – Pacaymayo (10km, 8hrs)
Begin with a hot drink served in your tent and a delicious breakfast. Hike 4 hours to Llulluchapampa for lunch, then climb to Dead Woman’s Pass, the highest point of the trail. Descend 2 hours to the Pacaymayo campsite.
- Places we visit: Cloud Forest, Dead Woman's Pass
- Experiences: Celebrate at the summit with a drink.
Day 3: Pacaymayo – Runkuraqay – Phuyupatamarca (13km, 7hrs)
Wake up with amazing views of the Urubamba Valley and waterfalls. Start with a 2-hour climb to Runkuraqay Pass. Visit multiple archaeological sites along the way and reach the final campsite at Phuyupatamarca. Enjoy a sunset ceremony led by an Andean shaman.
- Places we visit: Runkuraqay, Sayacmarca, Conchamarca, Phuyupatamarca
- Experiences: Pachamama ceremony and sunset views
Day 4: Phuyupatamarca – Machu Picchu – Cusco (11 km, 4 hrs)
Start the day at 5:00 a.m. with hot coffee and your last breakfast on the trail. Hike 4 hours past Intipata and Wiñaywayna to the Sun Gate for your first view of Machu Picchu. Then explore the site on a guided tour and return to Cusco by Vistadome train and private transport.
- Places we visit: Intipata, Wiñaywayna, Sun Gate, Machu Picchu
- Experiences: First view of Machu Picchu, Observatory train ride
Included:
This is a private and fully supported luxury trek along the classic 4-day Inca Trail to Machu Picchu. It includes all transportation, camping gear, meals, entrance tickets, and premium services to make your journey as comfortable as possible.
General Services
- Pre-departure briefing at your hotel
- Professional tour guide
- Entry tickets to the Inca Trail and Machu Picchu
- All transportation during the tour
- Return on the luxurious Observatory Train or 360°
Accommodation & Equipment
- 3-night camping with luxury equipment
- Walk-in tents with luxury cots (queen or twin), duvets, sheets, pillows, and sleeping bags
- Private toilet tents, hot showers, and dressing area
- Massage tents, dining tents, tables, and chairs
- Towels, bathrobe, and basic toiletries
Trekking Team
- Personal porter to carry up to 10 kg (22 lb) of your gear
- Chefs for preparing gourmet meals
- Massage therapists for all 3 nights of camping
Food & Drinks
- 4 Breakfasts, 4 Lunches, 3 Dinners
- Daily snacks and boiled water
- Hot drinks (coffee, tea) and refreshments (soda, beer, champagne, pisco)
Extras
- Trekking poles
- First-aid kit, satellite phones, oxygen supply
Not Included:
- Last day dinner
- Travel Insurance
- Gratuities
Know before booking
- Only private tours are available
- This tour can operate with one traveler
Important information about the Inca Trail
The Inca Trail is part of the Qhapaq Ñan network and is located within the Historic Sanctuary of Machu Picchu (SHM), a Protected Natural Area managed by SERNARP (the National Service of Natural Areas Protected by the State). This means that you're trekking through a site of exceptional cultural, archaeological, and ecological value, one that must be preserved and respected.
At TreXperience, we are committed to responsible tourism, strictly following the guidelines for conservation in this area. Throughout the journey, we’ll guide you paths, the stories, nature, and the significance of this unique place, so it can be protected for future generations.
Full Itinerary of the Inca Trail Luxury Tour
Day 1: Cusco – Km 82 – Wayllabamba
We will pick you up from your hotel in Cusco City around 5:00 am and travel in a private van to Kilometer 82, the starting point of our Luxury Inca Trail to Machu Picchu. If you stay in the Sacred Valley, Ollantaytambo or Urubamba, the pick-up will be 2 hours later. In Ollantaytambo, we will stop for breakfast at a local restaurant with beautiful views of the Inca Town. This is also a good moment to prepare for the day and pick up any last-minute items.
We'll then continue for another 30 minutes to the km 82 checkpoint, where the iconic Inca Trail begins. The first part will be a relatively easy 4-hour hike to the lunch spot near the Inca Site of Llactapata. As part of our Inca Trail Luxury service, our elite team of chefs will prepare a gourmet meal using fresh, locally sourced ingredients—served with cold drinks such as beer or soda.
After lunch, we’ll hike for another two hours along the Cusichaca River to the village of Wayllabamba, where we’ll spend the night. At camp, you’ll be welcomed with wine or a Pisco Sour, followed by hot showers, optional massage therapy, and premium camping amenities—including spacious walk-in tents.
- Hiking Distance: 12 km / 7.5 mi
- Duration: 6 hours approx.
- Highest Altitude: 3,000 m / 9,843 ft
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Meals: Lunch, snacks, tea time, and dinner
- Included: Hot showers, massage therapists, and drinks
Day 2: Wayllabamba – Warmiwañusca – Pacaymayo
Rise and shine! Today, you'll start with a hot drink in your tent and prepare for the trail's most challenging part. After a stylish breakfast from our chef, the hike begins with a steep 4-hour hike through the dense cloud forest to Llulluchapampa (3,762 m / 12,338 ft). Here, you'll have a tasty lunch waiting for you to reenergize for the ascent. During this first section, you will pass through different microclimates with enough time to admire the stunning mountain views covered by native plants, including the Polylepis or Q’ueuña trees.
After lunch, you will continue hiking up to Warmiwañusca (Dead Woman’s Pass), the highest point of the trail with 4,215 m (13,828 ft). It'll be a great opportunity to soak in the views and rest for a while. Next, you’ll continue for another 2-hours down to the second campsite at Pacaymayo Alto, located at 3,600 m (11,482 ft). Upon arrival, your luxury tents will be ready; shower, massage, dinner, and sleep early to recover for the next day.
- Hiking Distance: 10 km / 6.2 m
- Duration: 8 hours
- Highest Altitude: 4,215 m / 13,838 ft
- Difficulty: Challenging
- Meals: Breakfast, snacks, lunch, tea time, and dinner
- Included: Hot shower, massage therapists, and drinks
Day 3: Pacaymayo – Runkuraqay – Phuyupatamarca
On the third day, you will wake up to a breathtaking view of the Andes, the Urubamba Valley, and waterfalls near the campsite. Past breakfast, you will start with a 2-hour hike to Runkuraqay Pass at 3,955 m (12,975 ft), the second-highest pass of the Inca Trail. Along the way, you’ll be able to see the circular ruins of Runkuraqay, a small lake, and fantastic views of the mountains.
From the pass, there's still a 2-hour down to Sayacmarca Inca Site, a famous archeological site located in the cloud forest region; lunch is served at a nearby campsite to continue for 2 more hours to the last campsite called Phuyupatamarca (“City in the clouds”) at 3,680 m (12,073 ft).
This last campsite is arguably the most beautiful on the Inca Trail Trek; you’ll see Machu Picchu Mountain from a distance and enjoy the views of the highest snow-capped peaks, such as the Salkantay Mountain, Pumasillo, and Veronica. After setting up all in your tent, you'll be able to explore the high areas for the most beautiful sunset; the views of Vilcabamba's mountain range in the cloud forest are simply surreal!
- Hiking Distance: 13 km / 8 mi
- Duration: 7 hours
- Highest Altitude: 4,000 m / 13,123 ft
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Meals: Breakfast, snacks, lunch, tea time, and dinner
- Included: Hot shower, massage therapists, and drinks
Day 4: Phuyupatamarca – Machu Picchu – Cusco
This day is to wake up at 5:00 am and wait for the sunrise as you enjoy a coffee with the mountains. After enjoying the last breakfast, you’ll bid farewell to the incredible team of chefs, porters, and masseuses and start going down more than 3,000 stairs built 500 years ago. Today's hike is mostly downhill, exploring the ruins of Phuyupatamarca, Intipata, and Wiñaywayna, at exclusive times with almost no people.
When you arrive at the Sun Gate around 10:00 am, you will have the first glimpse of the legendary city of the Incas. From this point, there's a last one-hour hike down to Machu Picchu, where you'll have lunch at Belmond Sanctuary Lodge, and visit the Citadel in the afternoon.
Exploring Machu Picchu after lunch allows you to see this fantastic place with fewer people and get mind-blowing views. After finishing the tour, you will go down to the city of Aguas Calientes, take some time to explore, and later board the exclusive Vistadome Observatory train to Ollantaytambo and take a private bus back to Cusco. Your arrival at your hotel in Cusco will be around 8:30 p.m.
- Hiking Distance: 11 km / 6.8 mi
- Duration: 5 hours
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Meals: Breakfast, snacks, and lunch at the Sanctuary Lodge Hotel.
Price - Luxury Inca Trail Tour to Machu Picchu
The final price is based on your group size. We only organize private tours.
Number of Travelers | Price per Person |
|---|---|
1 | US$ 4,800 |
2 | US$ 2,980 |
3 | US$ 2,600 |
4 | US$ 2,400 |
5 | US$ 2,300 |
6 | US$ 2,200 |
7 | US$ 2,100 |
8 | US$ 1,980 |
9 or more | Contact us for a personalized quote! |
Booking and Payment
- Deposit: US$ 400 per person (to reserve your spot). The remaining can be paid online or at our office in Cusco, using any credit card, PayPal, or wire transfer. Contact us to see alternative payment options.
Student Discount:
- US$ 40 off
Applies to all travelers under 17 and students under 25 with a valid university ID. To get the discount, the ID must include:
- Student name, photo, and university name.
- Have a valid expiration date (expired IDs will not be accepted)
- ISIC cards are not valid.
Please email us at info@trexperienceperu.com at the time of booking to receive your discount.
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Luxury Inca Trail Tour - Packing List
During the Luxury Inca Trail Trek, you will have a personal porter to carry all your belongings for the 4-day trek. TreXperience will provide you with a duffel bag to pack your equipment for the hike to Machu Picchu. Please note that the weight limit for this bag is 10 kilograms (22 pounds).
Additionally, you’ll need to bring a small and comfortable backpack, which you'll carry yourself for each day of the hike. Here's a list of items that you will need for the Luxury Inca Trail hike:
TreXperience provides
- Duffle bag: For packing your personal items (maximum weight: 10 kg or 22 lb).
- Equipment: Sleeping bag, inflatable sleeping pad, liner, pillow, blankets, and hot water bags for the coldest nights (These items are not counted within the 10kg weight limit. You’re welcome to bring your own sleeping bag if you prefer).
- Soap: Provided during the trek. Feel free to bring your own if you have a preferred brand.
Essentials
- Original Passport: Required to access the Inca Trail and Machu Picchu.
- Daypack: Must be light and comfortable for hiking (around 25-35 liters).
- Hiking boots: Sturdy, comfortable hiking boots with good traction and ankle support.
- Water Bottle or CamelBak: A reusable water bottle to stay hydrated on the trek (recommended 2 liters)
- Trekking poles are provided by TreXperience on request.
- Personal care products
What to pack in your daypack
Make sure you bring a lightweight and comfortable backpack. We recommend a 25-35L backpack with rain cover. Larger bags are not permitted inside Machu Picchu and must be stored in the lockers. This rule applies to bag size, not capacity, so if your bag is technically larger, you can make it look small enough for Machu Picchu.
- Hat and sunglasses
- Sunscreen
- Neck gaiter
- Rain gear or rain poncho
- Base and warm layers
- Insect repellent
- Hand sanitizer, toilet paper, and wet wipes
- Personal medication
- Camera and charger
- Power bank or batteries
- Toothbrush and paste
- Flashlight or headlamp
- Snacks (energy bars, chocolates, etc.)
- Extra Money
What to pack in the duffle bag
Our porters will carry this bag. The total weight should not exceed 10 kg (22 lb). Duffle bags will be available at our office the day before the trek and at the campsites during the hike.
- Hiking pants/trousers (2 or 3)
- Hiking socks (5 sets)
- Long and short sleeve shirts (4 or 5)
- Undergarments (4 sets)
- Fleece jacket or softshell jacket
- Warm jacket
- Quick-dry towel
- Sandals or lightweight shoes
- Toiletries (preferably eco-friendly)
- Plastic bag
Need more tips for the Luxury Inca Trail to Machu Picchu? Check out our Complete Packing List.
Luxury Inca Trail Travel Information
The Inca Trail follows part of the ancient road built by the Incas in the 15th century. This trail system, known as Qhapaq Ñan, once connected the empire across what we know as Colombia, Ecuador, Peru, Bolivia, Chile, and Argentina. The route is just over 42 km and is considered one of the top-rated hikes to reach Machu Picchu.
Our Luxury Inca Trail follows the same 4-day route as the classic version, with extra comfort, upgraded equipment, and personalized service. Still, it’s a real trek through the mountains, so it’s important to know the route and how it works. Below you'll find useful details about the distance, elevation, difficulty, weather conditions, permits, and how the trek is organized.
Cusco and the Inca Trail
Cusco was the capital of the Inca Empire and the starting point for all official Inca roads. Every trail began here and connected with other regions across the Andes. The Luxury Inca Trail starts at Km 82, in the Sacred Valley, and follows a section of this historic network through mountains, cloud forests, and archaeological sites until reaching Machu Picchu.
Inca Trail length
The full route is about 26 miles (42 kilometers) long. It takes four days to complete, passing through ancient ruins, high-altitude passes, and diverse landscapes before arriving at the Sun Gate overlooking Machu Picchu.
Inca Trail elevation gain
Over the course of the trek, you’ll gain around 3,000 feet (914 meters) in elevation. The highest point is Dead Woman’s Pass, which sits at 13,828 feet (4,215 meters) above sea level. Most of the uphill hiking happens in the first two days:
- Day 1: Approx. 1,000 ft (305 m) ascent
- Day 2: Approx. 800 ft (244 m) ascent
- Days 3 and 4: The trail becomes more gradual, with a mix of descents and shorter climbs.
Inca Trail Altitude Map
Clic to expand.
Difficulty
The Luxury Inca Trail is considered a moderate trek. It’s challenging at times, mainly because of the altitude and the number of hours walking each day. But the pace is well-planned, and having a private guide, porters, and comfortable services makes a big difference. It’s doable for most people with a basic level of fitness and some preparation.
Weather
The weather along the trail can change quickly, so it's important to be prepared for a bit of everything. There are two main seasons:
- Dry season: April to October
- Rainy season: November to March
During the day, temperatures can reach up to 80°F (27°C), especially at lower altitudes. At night, it can drop below freezing at high camps. Layered clothing is essential.
Inca Trail permits
To hike the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, you need a Permit issued by the Peruvian government. Only 500 permits are available each day, which includes travelers, guides, porters, and kitchen staff. These spots sell out fast, especially in high season, so booking in advance is necessary.
Sun Gate or Intipunku
The Inca Trail ends at the Sun Gate, where you get your first view of Machu Picchu. This access point is exclusive to those who hike the trail and is one of the most exciting moments of the entire journey.
›› Read more about the Sun Gate
Return by Panoramic Train
After you visit Machu Picchu, your journey continues with a relaxing and scenic ride aboard one of Peru’s most exclusive panoramic trains: Vistadome or 360° Observatory. These trains offer large windows, skylights, and onboard service, allowing you to take in the breathtaking Andean landscapes in total comfort.
Depending on availability and departure time, you'll board the train from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo. From there, a private vehicle will be waiting to take you back to your hotel in Cusco.
Machu Picchu Circuits
This experience includes Circuit 2 in Machu Picchu, which covers the main and most important areas of the site, such as the viewing platforms, the Temple of the Condor, the Sacred Rock, the urban area, and other sectors. Your guide will walk you through these areas and explain the history and significance of each one. Access to this circuit is subject to availability, so we recommend confirming in advance.
If you'd like to explore additional areas, you can request an extra ticket during booking or opt for our 5-day Luxury Inca Trail, which includes a full guided tour on the fifth day.
Luxury Inca Trail FAQs
What circuit in Machu Picchu is included on this tour?
This Inca Trail luxury tour includes access to Circuit 2 in Machu Picchu, which covers the most important areas of the site, including the main viewing platforms. Availability is limited, so please contact us in advance to check and confirm access.
Please note this is subject to modifications according to the Peruvian Government.
What is the difference between the Luxury Inca Trail and the Classic Inca Trail?
The Inca Trail is only one route; the Classic and Luxury Inca Trail follow the same trail, but the Campsite locations differ.
The Luxury Inca Trail hike to Machu Picchu will allow you to stay in an exclusive campsite along the Inca Trail with comfortable equipment and gourmet food. Also, during the Luxury Machu Picchu hike, all services are upgraded.
What equipment is provided for the Luxury Inca Trail Trek?
During the Luxury Inca Trail Trek, you will have the following equipment:
- Walk-in tents (for 1, or 2 travelers, we also have large group tents)
- Queen-size, twin-size luxury camping cots
- Blankets, Sleeping bags, pillows, sheets
- Portable showers with hot water
- Portable Private Toilets
- Luxury dining tents, tables, chairs
We carry everything for the 4 days tour during the Inca Trail, including tents, airbeds, sleeping bags, portable showers, and portable toilets. It is possible to find toilets and cold water showers at specific campsites. However, we do not recommend them for the number of people using them daily.
What services are provided in the Luxury Inca Trail?
During the Luxury Inca Trail Trek, the following services are included:
- All transportation for 4 days
- Peruvian food prepared by our talented chefs
- Inca massage sessions every night of camping
- Coca leaf reading and Pachamama ceremony led by Andean Shaman
- Soft drinks like beer, sodas, energetic drinks
- Wine, Pisco, Champagne
- 1 lunch at Machu Picchu hotel
- Panoramic Observatory train to return
- Optional: you can upgrade the trains.
What are the Passport requirements?
Original passports are required to enter the Inca Trail and Machu Picchu. The passport number must match the number you booked your tour; if you have changed or renewed the passport, you must send us a photo of both passports or travel with the 2 passports. Passports must be valid for at least six (6) months from the date of entry into the national territory.
How challenging is the Inca Trail?
The Inca Trail is one of the most epic hikes in the world. Also, it is one of the most challenging hikes to Machu Picchu. Hikers must be in moderate physical condition.
The Inca Trail is doable; all hikers must prepare before they come to hike at a high altitude.
What is the highest point on the Inca Trail?
The highest point of the Inca Trail is Dead Women’s Pass, also known as Warmiwañusca Pass, at 4215m / 13829ft. The second highest point is RunKuraqay Pass, with 4000m (13123ft).
How many miles is the Luxury 4-day Inca Trail?
The Luxury Inca Trail, 4 Days / 3 nights, starts in Km 82 – Piscacucho and ends in Machu Picchu. The total hiking distance is 42 km – 26 miles.