Take our 4‑day Luxury Inca Trail and hike in comfort. Follow the ancient Inca stone road past green valleys and hidden ruins until you reach Machu Picchu at sunrise. After walking, rest in roomy tents with soft beds, hot drinks, and fresh meals from your own chef. Porters carry your bags, and we arrange every permit, so you just enjoy the view. It’s a journey through history with hotel‑level comfort.
Luxury Inca Trail Tour: 4 Days to Machu Picchu – Overview
Wake up in the Andes with a warm cup of coffee and a sky full of stars. Each day, you walk the same stone road the Incas built, passing green valleys, cloud forests, and quiet Inca sites while your guide shares the stories behind them. After the hike, you return to a roomy tent with a soft bed and thick blankets. Dinner is fresh Peruvian food made by our chef and served with local wine, and a gentle massage helps tired muscles relax before you drift off to sleep to the sound of the river.
You will also join a small ceremony to thank Pachamama, Mother Earth, and learn the meaning of the coca leaf in Andean life. Porters carry your bags, and our team arranges every permit, so you can stay focused on the moment. On the last morning, you reach the Sun Gate just as the first light touches Machu Picchu. Watching the lost city appear through the mist is a sight you will never forget.
If you want true adventure without giving up comfort, this four‑day Luxury Inca Trail is for you. Places fill fast, so book now and share the magic of the Andes with us.
Tour Highlights
- All equipment is included for this four-day glamping experience
- Spacious walk-in tents, dining tents, and massage tents
- Queen- and twin-size camping cots with comfortable bedding
- Hot showers and massage sessions every afternoon
- The best of Peruvian gourmet cuisine along the route
- Access to Inca sites and Machu Picchu at exclusive hours
- Return on the exclusive Luxurious Observatory Train
Inca Trail Luxury Tour at a Glance
Day 1: Cusco – Km 82 – Wayllabamba (12 km, 6h)
We pick you up early, share breakfast in Ollantaytambo, and then start walking from Km 82. After four easy hours, we stop at Patallacta for a picnic. Two more hours bring us to camp in Wayllabamba, where you can relax with a sunset drink.
- Places we visit: Patallacta, Wayllabamba
- Experiences: Meet the trekking team, explore local villages
Day 2: Wayllabamba – Warmiwañusca – Pacaymayo (10 km, 8h)
Wake up to hot coffee at your tent. After breakfast, we climb through the forest to Llulluchapampa for lunch, then cross Dead Woman’s Pass, the highest point on the trail. We celebrate the view and head down to camp in Pacaymayo for dinner under the stars.
- Places we visit: Cloud forest, Dead Woman’s Pass
- Experiences: Celebrate at the summit with a toast
Day 3: Pacaymayo – Runkuraqay – Phuyupatamarca (13 km, 7h)
Catch sunrise over the Urubamba Valley, walk past quiet Inca sites, and cross Runkuraqay Pass. In the afternoon, we reach Phuyupatamarca, “the city above the clouds.” A small ceremony thanks Mother Earth before a relaxed sunset meal.
- Places we visit: Runkuraqay, Sayacmarca, Conchamarca, Phuyupatamarca
- Experiences: Pachamama ceremony and sunset views
Day 4: Phuyupatamarca – Machu Picchu – Cusco (11 km, 4h)
Enjoy early coffee, then hike to the Sun Gate for your first look at Machu Picchu in the morning light. After a guided tour, ride the Vistadome train back to Cusco, where private transport takes you to your hotel.
- Places we visit: Intipata, Wiñay Wayna, Sun Gate, Machu Picchu
- Experiences: First view of Machu Picchu, Observatory train ride
Included
This private, fully supported luxury trek along the classic four-day Inca Trail covers all transportation, premium camping gear, meals, entrance tickets, and personalized services to ensure maximum comfort.
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
Accommodation & Equipment
- Three nights of camping with luxury equipment
- Walk-in tents with luxury cots (queen or twin), duvets, sheets, pillows, and sleeping bags
- Private toilet tents and hot showers
- Massage tents with a message chair
- Dining and kitchen tents with tables and chairs
- Towels, bathrobe, and basic toiletries
Trekking Team
- Personal porter to carry up to 10 kg / 22 lb of your gear
- Gourmet chefs
- Massage therapists for all three camping nights
- Andean Shaman for Pachamama ceremony
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 phone, and oxygen supply
Not Included
- Dinner on the last day
- Travel insurance
Know Before Booking
- Only private tours are offered
- The tour can operate with a single traveler
Important Information about the Inca Trail
The Inca Trail is part of the Qhapaq Ñan network and lies within the Historic Sanctuary of Machu Picchu, a protected natural area managed by SERNANP. You will be trekking through a site of exceptional cultural, archaeological, and ecological value that must be preserved and respected.
At TreXperience, we are committed to responsible tourism, strictly following conservation guidelines. Throughout the journey, we will guide you through the paths, stories, and natural wonders 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 at 5:00 a.m. and travel in a private van to Kilometer 82, the starting point of our Luxury Inca Trail to Machu Picchu. If you are staying in the Sacred Valley—Ollantaytambo or Urubamba—pick-up will be two hours later. In Ollantaytambo, we stop for breakfast at a local restaurant overlooking the Inca town—an ideal moment to prepare for the day or purchase any last-minute items.
We then continue for another 30 minutes to the Km 82 checkpoint, where the iconic Inca Trail begins. The first stretch is a relatively easy four-hour hike to the lunch spot near the Inca site of Llactapata. As part of our Inca Trail luxury service, our elite chefs prepare a gourmet meal with fresh, locally sourced ingredients, served with cold beer or soda.
After lunch, we hike two more hours along the Cusichaca River to the village of Wayllabamba, where we spend the night. At camp you are 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 h approx.
- Highest altitude: 3 000 m / 9 843 ft
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Meals: Lunch, snacks, tea time, dinner
- Included: Hot showers, massage therapists, drinks
Day 2: Wayllabamba – Warmiwañusca – Pacaymayo
Rise and shine! Start the day with a hot drink in your tent and a hearty breakfast. The hike begins with a steep four-hour ascent through dense cloud forest to Llulluchapampa (3 762 m / 12 338 ft), where a nutritious lunch awaits. Along the way you pass through varied microclimates and admire native flora, including q’euña (Polylepis) trees.
After lunch, continue up to Warmiwañusca – Dead Woman’s Pass, the highest point of the trail at 4 215 m / 13 828 ft. Take time to enjoy the views, then descend two hours to the Pacaymayo campsite (3 600 m / 11 482 ft). Your luxury tents, hot showers, massage service, and dinner will be ready on arrival.
- Hiking distance: 10 km / 6.2 mi
- Duration: 8 h
- Highest altitude: 4 215 m / 13 828 ft
- Difficulty: Challenging
- Meals: Breakfast, snacks, lunch, tea time, dinner
- Included: Hot showers, massage therapists, drinks
Day 3: Pacaymayo – Runkuraqay – Phuyupatamarca
Wake up to breathtaking views of the Andes, the Urubamba Valley, and nearby waterfalls. After breakfast, hike two hours to Runkuraqay Pass (3 955 m / 12 975 ft), the trail’s second-highest point, passing the circular ruins of Runkuraqay and a small alpine lake.
From the pass, descend two hours to the Sayacmarca ruins in the cloud forest, where lunch is served. Continue another two hours to the final campsite at Phuyupatamarca (“City in the Clouds,” 3 680 m / 12 073 ft). From this spectacular perch you can spot Machu Picchu Mountain in the distance and enjoy sunset views of snow-capped peaks such as Salkantay, Pumasillo, and Veronica.
- Hiking distance: 13 km / 8 mi
- Duration: 7 h
- Highest altitude: 3 955 m / 12 975 ft
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Meals: Breakfast, snacks, lunch, tea time, dinner
- Included: Hot showers, massage therapists, drinks
Day 4: Phuyupatamarca – Machu Picchu – Cusco
Rise at 5:00 a.m. to watch the sunrise over the mountains with a fresh cup of coffee. After your final trail breakfast, bid farewell to the chef, porters, and massage team, then descend more than 3 000 ancient stone steps, visiting Phuyupatamarca, Intipata, and Wiñay Wayna at off-peak hours.
Reach the Sun Gate around 10:00 a.m. for your first panoramic view of Machu Picchu. Continue one hour to the citadel, enjoy lunch at the Belmond Sanctuary Lodge, and explore the site in the quieter afternoon period. After the tour, travel to Aguas Calientes, board the exclusive Vistadome Observatory Train to Ollantaytambo, and take a private bus back to Cusco, arriving at your hotel around 8:30 p.m.
- Hiking distance: 11 km / 6.8 mi
- Duration: 5 h
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Meals: Breakfast, snacks, lunch at the Sanctuary Lodge
Price – Luxury Inca Trail Tour to Machu Picchu
The final price depends on your group size. We organize only private tours.
| Number of Travelers | Price per Person |
|---|---|
| 1 | US$ 4 ,860 |
| 2 | US$ 2 ,980 |
| 3 | US$ 2 ,650 |
| 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 balance can be paid online or at our office in Cusco with any credit card, PayPal, or wire transfer. Contact us for alternative payment options.
Student Discount
- US$30 off
Applies to all travelers under 17 and students under 25 with a valid university ID. The ID must:
- Show the student's name, photo, and university name.
- Include a valid expiration date (expired IDs are not accepted).
The discount is applied automatically for children. For students, you must submit a copy of your student ID when booking; if your ID is rejected, you will be charged the adult rate.
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Luxury Inca Trail Tour – Packing List
During the Luxury Inca Trail Trek, a personal porter will carry your belongings for the four-day hike. TreXperience provides a duffel bag (weight limit: 10 kg / 22 lb) for your equipment.
You will also need a small, comfortable backpack to carry yourself each day. Below is the recommended packing list for the Luxury Inca Trail hike.
TreXperience provides
- Duffle bag: Maximum weight 10 kg / 22 lb.
- Equipment: Sleeping bag, inflatable pad, liner, pillow, blankets, and hot-water bottles for cold nights (these items do not count toward the 10 kg limit; you may bring your sleeping bag).
- Soap: Supplied on the trek (feel free to bring your preferred brand).
Essentials
- Original passport: Required to enter the Inca Trail and Machu Picchu.
- Daypack: Lightweight, 25 – 35 L, and comfortable for hiking.
- Hiking boots: Sturdy, comfortable, with good traction and ankle support.
- Water bottle or CamelBak: Reusable container; 2 L recommended.
- Trekking poles: Provided by TreXperience on request.
- Personal care products.
What to pack in your daypack
Use a 25 – 35 L backpack with a rain cover. Larger bags are not permitted inside Machu Picchu and must be stored in lockers; compliance is based on the bag’s size, not capacity.
- Hat and sunglasses
- Sunscreen
- Neck gaiter
- Rain gear or a poncho
- Base and warm layers
- Insect repellent
- Hand sanitizer, toilet paper, and wet wipes
- Personal medication
- Camera and charger
- Power bank or spare batteries
- Toothbrush and toothpaste
- Flashlight or headlamp
- Snacks (energy bars, chocolate, etc.)
- Extra cash
What to pack in the duffel bag
Porters carry this bag. Total weight must not exceed 10 kg / 22 lb. Duffel bags are issued the day before the trek and remain available at each campsite.
- Hiking pants or trousers (2 – 3)
- Hiking socks (5 pairs)
- Long- and short-sleeve shirts (4 – 5)
- Undergarments (4 sets)
- Fleece or soft-shell jacket
- Warm jacket
- Quick-dry towel
- Sandals or lightweight shoes
- Eco-friendly toiletries
- A plastic bag for wet or dirty clothes
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 road network built by the Incas in the 15th century. This system, known as the Qhapaq Ñan, once connected the empire across present-day Colombia, Ecuador, Peru, Bolivia, Chile, and Argentina. The route is just over 42 km (26 mi) and is considered one of the top-rated hikes to reach Machu Picchu.
Our Luxury Inca Trail follows the same four-day route as the classic version, but with extra comfort, upgraded equipment, and personalized service. It is still a genuine mountain trek, so it is important to understand the route and logistics. Below you will find key details about distance, elevation, difficulty, weather, permits, and overall organization.
Cusco and the Inca Trail
Cusco was the capital of the Inca Empire and the starting point for all official roads. The Luxury Inca Trail begins at Kilometre 82 in the Sacred Valley and follows this historic network through mountains, cloud forest, and archaeological sites until arriving at Machu Picchu.
Inca Trail length
The full route is about 26 mi / 42 km. It takes four days, passing ancient ruins, high-altitude passes, and varied landscapes before reaching the Sun Gate overlooking Machu Picchu.
Inca Trail elevation gain
Over the trek you gain roughly 3 000 ft / 914 m. The highest point is Dead Woman’s Pass at 13 828 ft / 4 215 m. Most uphill hiking occurs on the first two days:
- Day 1: approx. 1 000 ft / 305 m ascent
- Day 2: approx. 800 ft / 244 m ascent
- Days 3 & 4: more gradual, with descents and shorter climbs
Inca Trail altitude map
Click to expand.
Difficulty
The Luxury Inca Trail is rated moderate. Altitude and daily walking hours are the main challenges, but a well-paced itinerary, private guide, porters, and comfort services make the trek achievable for most travellers with basic fitness and preparation.
Weather
The trail experiences two main seasons:
- Dry season: April – October
- Rainy season: November – March
Daytime temperatures can reach 80 °F / 27 °C at lower altitudes, while nights at high camps may drop below freezing. Layered clothing is essential.
Inca Trail permits
Hiking the Inca Trail requires a permit issued by the Peruvian government. Only 500 permits are available per day, covering trekkers, guides, porters, and cooks. High-season dates sell out quickly, so book well in advance.
Sun Gate (Intipunku)
The Inca Trail ends at the Sun Gate, where you enjoy your first view of Machu Picchu. Access is exclusive to Inca Trail hikers and is one of the trek’s most rewarding moments.
›› Read more about the Sun Gate
Return on teh Observatory train
After visiting Machu Picchu, relax on a scenic ride aboard the exclusive Vistadome Observatory train, featuring large windows, skylights, and onboard show and service for optimal views of the Andes.
Depending on availability, you will travel from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo and continue by private vehicle to your hotel in Cusco.
Machu Picchu circuits
This experience includes Circuits 1 and 3 in Machu Picchu, covering the main viewpoints, the Temple of the Condor, the Sacred Rock, the urban sector, and more. Your guide will explain the history and significance of each area. Access is subject to availability, so confirm in advance.
Luxury Inca Trail FAQs
What circuit in Machu Picchu is included on this tour?
This Luxury Inca Trail tour includes access to Circuit 1 + Circuit 3 in Machu Picchu, covering the most important areas of the site, including the main viewpoints. Availability is limited, so contact us in advance to confirm access.
Please note that circuits are subject to change by the Peruvian government.
What is the difference between the Luxury Inca Trail and the Classic Inca Trail?
Both versions follow the same route, but campsite locations, equipment, and services differ.
The Luxury Inca Trail offers exclusive campsites, upgraded equipment, gourmet food, and enhanced services throughout the trek.
What equipment is provided for the Luxury Inca Trail trek?
Equipment includes:
- Walk-in tents (single, double, or group)
- Queen- or twin-size luxury camping cots
- Blankets, sleeping bags, pillows, sheets
- Portable hot-water showers
- Private portable toilets
- Luxury dining tents, tables, chairs
All equipment is carried for the four-day trek. Public showers and toilets are available at certain campsites, but we recommend using the private facilities provided.
What services are provided on the Luxury Inca Trail?
Included services:
- All transportation for four days
- Gourmet Peruvian meals prepared by our chefs
- Inca-style massage sessions each night
- Coca-leaf reading and Pachamama ceremony led by an Andean shaman
- Soft drinks (beer, soda, energy drinks)
- Wine, pisco, and champagne
- Lunch at the Machu Picchu Sanctuary Lodge
- Return by panoramic Observatory train
- Optional train upgrades on request
What are the passport requirements?
You must present your original passport to enter the Inca Trail and Machu Picchu. The passport number must match the booking. If you renew your passport, bring both the old and new passports, or send us photos of each. Passports must be valid for at least six months beyond your entry date into Peru.
How challenging is the Inca Trail?
The trail is considered moderate to challenging due to altitude and daily hiking hours. Adequate preparation and acclimatization are essential.
What is the highest point on the Inca Trail?
The highest point is Dead Woman’s Pass (Warmiwañusca) at 4 215 m / 13 828 ft. The second-highest is Runkuraqay Pass at 4 000 m / 13 123 ft.
How many miles is the four-day Luxury Inca Trail?
The trek runs from Km 82 (Piscacucho) to Machu Picchu, covering 42 km / 26 mi over four days and three nights.