Itinerary of the Private Premium Inca Trail Tour 8 Days

Day 1: Arrival in Cusco - Sacred Valley Transfer

On arrival in Cusco, meet your guide and head to the Historic Center. Enjoy free time to wander, shop, and have lunch in a recommended restaurant. In the afternoon, we'll travel about 2 hours to the lower-altitude Sacred Valley, check in to your hotel, and rest to acclimatize for the days ahead.

• Transportation: Included
• Tour guide: Included
• 4-star Hotel in Sacred Valley: Casa Andina or Similar
• Difficulty: Easy

Day 2: Sacred Valley Tour

After breakfast, your guide picks you up in a private and modern vehicle and we drive to Chinchero, the land of master weavers. Learn the ancient techniques local women still use to produce the region's finest textiles, then visit the Chinchero archeological site.

We continue to Moray’s mysterious circular terraces and the Maras Salt Mines, where local families collect salt fed by subterranean springs. Finish with a guided tour of Ollantaytambo fortress. Overnight in the same Sacred Valley (same hotel).

• Transportation: Included
• Tour guide: Included
• Entrance fees: Included
• Meals: Breakfast at the hotel, Buffet Lunch
• 4-star Hotel in Sacred Valley: Casa Andina or Similar
• Difficulty: Easy

Day 3: Cusco – Km 82 – Llactapata – Huayllabamba

At 08:30 a.m. after your hotel breakfast, meet your guide and we’ll head about one hour to KM 82, the beginning of the Inca Trail. Have your original passport ready for the checkpoint. This day is relatively easy, we call it the “training day,” which will help you acclimate and get ready for the Inca Trail.

Start with a four-hour hike to Patallacta, the first Inca site along the trail. From this quiet point, learn key aspects of the Inca’s life while you enjoy the andean views. Nearby, your trekking chef will be waiting with freshly prepared lunch. Afterward, we continue for approximately two hours to reach the first campsite at Huayllambamba. Here, you’ll have time to relax in comfortable tents, and enjoy access to hot showers available.

• Hiking Distance: 13 km / 8 mi
• Duration: 6 hours
• Campsite Altitude: 3,000 m / 9,843 ft.
• Highest Altitude: 3,000 m / 9,843 ft.
• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner (Breakfast in the hotel)
• Accomodation: Camping
• Difficulty: Moderate

Day 4: Hatunchaca – Dead Women’s Pass – Pacaymayo

Wake up to a hot cup of coffee or coca tea provided in your tent, then get ready for the most challenging day of the Inca Trail. After breakfast, begin a steady 4-hour hike to Llulluchapampa for a well-earned lunch and time to enjoy the high-Andean flora and wildlife.

We then continue uphill for about 2 hours to Dead Woman’s Pass (4,215m / 13,829 ft.), the highest point of the trail. At the summit, pause for the silence and views as your guide leads a traditional offering to the Apus (Andean mountain spirits). Then we'll descend for around 2 hours to the Pacaymayo Valley, where we spend the second night camping with our comfortable camping equipment.

• Hiking Distance: 10 km / 6.2 mi
• Duration: 6 hours
• Campsite Altitude: 3,650 m / 11,975 ft.
• Highest Altitude: 4,215 m / 13,829 ft.
• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
• Accomodation: Camping
• Difficulty: Challenging

Day 5: Pacaymayo – Chaquicocha – Phuyupatamarca

After an early breakfast with your trekking team while enjoying the fantastic views between two majestic mountains where nearby waterfalls and the river can be heard, you’ll begin a 2-hour climb to the second mountain pass, Runcuraccay Pass (4,000 m / 13,123 ft.). On the way, explore the Inca site of Runcuraccay and enjoy the views.

From the top of the pass, we’ll regroup and begin descending to the other site on the Andes, which leads into the cloud forest region. On the way, we’ll visit the archaeological site of Sayacmarca, with magnificent views of the Vilcabamba Mountain Range. Lunch is near the Inca Site at Chaquicocha (3,600 m / 11,811 ft.).

Once we’ve eaten, it’s an easy two hours to Phuyupatamarca “The City in the Clouds”, dramatically set atop the mountains. This campsite offers some of the best views along the Inca Trail, with the Urubamba River winding far below and Machu Picchu Mountain visible in the distance. Before dinner, watch the sunset behind the Vilcabamba mountain range, then enjoy spectacular stargazing under dark, open skies.

• Hiking Distance: 14 km / 8.7 mi
• Duration: 8 hours
• Campsite Altitude: 3,680 m / 12,073 ft.
• Highest Altitude: 4,000 m / 13,123 ft.
• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
• Accomodation: Camping
• Difficulty: Moderate

Day 6: Phuyupatamarca – Wiñaywayna – Machu Picchu.

Today is worth getting up early and waiting for the sunrise over Veronica Mountain. After breakfast, we'll explore the Inca Site of Phuyupatamarca, and start descending into the Could forest region where Machu Picchu is located. As you descend quickly from the cold weather of the Andes to the lush sub-tropical cloud forest, you’ll experience a profound change in temperature as it gets warmer and warmer in the jungle. After 3 hours hike downhill, you’ll arrive at Intipata (Terraces of the Sun). Here, take time to relax, explore, and take in your magical surroundings. Then continue to visit Wiñaywayna Inca Site for one more hour, the last and yet the largest and most important Inca site from the Inca Trail.

After lunch, you’ll say goodbye to the trekking team, show your appreciation, and continue the Inca Trail’s last stretch. First, hike for one hour to the Sungate to enjoy the first glimpse of Machu Picchu. Continue for another hour with breathtaking views until you arrive at the upper part of Machu Picchu. As you’ll arrive late in the day, you’ll have the opportunity to take photos of the sacred Inca city while it’s almost empty. Then we'll take the bus down to Aguas Calientes, dinner, and spend the night in a hotel.

• Hiking Distance: 12 km / 7.4 mi
• Duration: 8 hours
• Aguas Calientes Altitude: 2,040 m / 6,690 ft.
• Highest Altitude: 3,680 m / 12,073 ft.
• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
• 4-star Hotel in Aguas Calientes: El Mapi or Similar
• Difficulty: Moderate

Day 7: Explore Machu Picchu – Return to Cusco

Get up early, enjoy breakfast in your hotel, and take the first bus to Machu Picchu. The guided tour through Circuit 3 starts with a gentle hike as you follow your expert guide past the most important stone temples, places, and altars, learning the history of Machu Picchu.

After the tour, take time to explore the Huayna Picchu Mountain, Machu Picchu Mountain (tickets must be booked as far in advance as possible and are not included in the tour) or enjoy an exclusive lunch at the Sanctuary Lodge Hotel restaurant.

Later, enjoy a final lunch at the Sanctuary Lodge Hotel, then take the bus down to Aguas Calientes, and board the Vistadome panoramic train to Ollantaytambo. On arrival, our TreXperience team will meet you at the station and transfer you safely to your hotel in Cusco City. Arrival is typically around 7:30 p.m

• Guided Tour Duration: 2.5 hours
• Machu Picchu Site Altitude: 2,430 m / 7,972 ft.
• Meals: Breakfast at the hotel, Sanctuary Lodge Hotel Lunch
• 4-star Hotel in Cusco: Casa Andina Premium or Similar
• Train back: Vistadome panoramic train
• Difficulty: Easy

Day 8: Fly out of Cusco or continue for more days

After breakfast at your hotel, you’ll be transferred to the airport, depending on your flight schedule. You can extend your stay and enjoy more wonderful places in Cusco. Contact us to learn more about places to visit in Cusco.

• Meals: Breakfast in the hotel
• Transportation: Hotel - Airport transfer
• Difficulty: Easy

Private Premium Inca Trail Tour 8 Day Packing List

The Peru Inca Trail Tour 8 Day is a complete package that includes the Sacred Valley, the Classic Inca Trail hike and private airport transfers. Across 8 days of the tour, you will stay in 4-star hotels in Cusco, the Sacred Valley, Aguas Calientes, and camp along the Inca Trail.

While you are in hotels, you will have all your luggage; TreXperience will transport your bags between the Sacred Valley and Cusco. On the Classic Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, you will carry only your daily essentials in a day pack.

This means you can carry 5 kg (11 lb) in your daypack and 7 kg (15 lb) in your duffle bag. Any remaining belongings can be stored at your hotel or at the TreXperience storeroom in Cusco.

Essentials

On the Inca Trail, you’ll be within the mountains without a cellphone signal and far from shops. Bring the right gear so you can enjoy your Inca Trail trek light. These essentials are a must, and all hikers should buy or rent good‑quality equipment.

• Original passport: A copy is not accepted; it must be valid for at least 6 months to enter and exit Peru and have two blank pages for entry and exit stamps.
• Valid Student ID: Required only if booked as a student (up to age 25). It must be issued by the university and show university info, personal details, a photo, and a valid date no later than December 31 of the year of travel.
• Hiking boots: Light, comfortable, and broken in. Not too tight or too loose, with room for your toes to move.
• Good-quality daypack: A comfortable, light, compact backpack for all your daily supplies.
  Camel bag or water bottle: Choose a 2‑liter option (hydration bladder or bottle) for quick, hassle‑free refills.
• Trekking poles: Highly recommended for the Inca Trail. You can also rent trekking poles from us.
• Headlamp: Essential for the Machu Picchu Inca Trail. A small flashlight also works.

What to pack in the daypack?

Below is a list of things to pack in your backpack. You’ll use it every day on the Inca Trail, so make sure it’s lightweight, comfortable, and good quality.

We recommend a 25- to 35-liter backpack with a rain cover. Large backpacks are not allowed in Machu Picchu; if needed, you must leave them in the lockers. This rule is based on size, not capacity, so if yours is slightly larger but not bulky, it’s fine.

• Hats and sunglasses: The sun is intense on the Inca Trail; bring a sun hat with neck coverage and UV‑protection sunglasses.
• Buff or bandana: These multifunctional scarves are very useful for the trek.
• Beanie or chullo: Needed for cold mountain passes, evenings in camp, and early mornings.
• Hiking gloves: Lightweight, breathable, and waterproof to keep you warm while trekking.
• Rain jacket: Bring one in any season; we provide a rain poncho. Look for materials such as Gore‑Tex or eVent.
• Rain pants: Not often needed or comfortable on the Inca Trail, but if you have them, bring them.
• Gaiters (optional): Rarely used on the trail. If you already own a pair, bring them; we don’t recommend buying new ones just for this trek.
• Warm layers: A base layer, a mid‑layer of fleece or down, and a waterproof shell.
• Sun cream: Bring high‑SPF sunscreen.
• Lip balm: With SPF protection.
• Bug spray: Choose one containing DEET or picaridin.
• Hand sanitizer: Carry a small bottle with you throughout the day.
• Toilet paper: There are bathrooms along the Inca Trail; pack toilet paper in a plastic bag.
• Personal first‑aid kit: For headaches, stomachaches, and colds. Also pack band‑aids and moleskin.
• Camera, extra batteries: Battery life drops at altitude, so bring spares or a power bank.
• Snacks: Energy‑packed granola bars or trail mix for steady fuel without slowing you down.
• Extra money for souvenirs, drinks, and tips (small change helps for village toilets on day one).

What to pack in the duffle bag?

TreXperience will provide you with a duffel bag for items you don’t need during the day. Our Porters will carry this bag for you throughout the trek. It should weigh a maximum of 7 kg (15 lb), including your sleeping bag and air mattress (if you bring/rent one). These two items weigh about 3 kg (2 kg sleeping bag and 1 kg air pad).

During the safety briefing, duffle bags will be available at our office the day before the trek. If you need it earlier, you can request it by email and pick it up in advance from our centrally located office in Cusco City.

• Sleeping bags: If you rent from us, these weigh about 2 kg. If you bring your own or rent elsewhere, make sure it’s warm enough for the Inca Trail and clean.
• Air mattress (can be rented from us): An extra layer to sleep on makes the hike more comfortable. We include a foam mattress in the Inca Trail tour.
• Shoes for the campsite: after long hours in boots, switch to light camp shoes or sandals at the camp.
• Warm jacket: Temperatures drop sharply at night; wear warm layers when the sun goes down. Don’t forget a hat and gloves!
• T‑shirts (wicking T‑shirts are best): Synthetic fabrics like polyester or nylon wick sweat and dry quickly. Avoid cotton. Pack around 5 T‑shirts.
• 2–3 hiking pants/trousers: Cargo pants have side pockets for gear; convertible pants zip off at the knee for changing conditions.
• Leggings work very well for women on the Inca Trail.
• 4 sets of undergarments: A sports bra and compression shorts help keep you comfortable and prevent chafing.
• 4 sets of hiking socks: Choose breathable wool or synthetic fibers.
• 1 fleece: A fleece jacket or pullover is ideal; layer it with other clothing as needed.
• 1 warm down jacket for the coldest nights. Down or synthetic insulation will keep you warm.
• Quick‑dry towel: A must‑have for the Inca Trail.
• Biodegradable soap: Breaks down safely and won’t harm the trail or wildlife.
• Wet wipes: Pack plenty, dusty trails make them essential.
• Toothbrush and paste: Choose compact, travel‑size options for camping.
• Face moisturizer: High altitude and strong sun can dry and damage skin.
• Power bank/battery charger: Keep your phone on airplane mode and carry a power bank; we recommend 20,000 mAh.
• Plastic bags to keep wet or muddy clothes separate.

See a complete guide on our blog: Packing List for the Inca Trail.

Private Premium Inca Trail Tour 8 Day Travel Information

Cusco is the gateway to many Andean adventures. Among the most renowned is the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, an ancestral route edged by high-altitude & cloud forest landscapes, and archaeological sites. This 8-day Inca Trail tour is the perfect way to hike the trail, visit important sights in the Sacred Valley, and finally explore the ancient citadel of Machu Picchu

Location

This private 8-day Inca Trail journey crosses changing locations, from Andean valleys and high mountain passes to the subtropical cloud forest on the way to the Amazon. Temperatures and landscapes shift as you go, so every day feels new.

• The Sacred Valley: This will be our base for planned tours. Set about 1.5–2 hours from Cusco at a lower altitude with a milder climate. It is the ideal place for gentle acclimatization before your private Inca Trail to Machu Picchu and Sacred Valley Tour. From here we’ll visit Chinchero Town, the Maras Salt Mines, Moray terraces, the Ollantaytambo fortress and finally reach the Inca trail starting point.
• Inca Trail: This famous trek covers about 42 km (26 mi) over four days, linking Inca sites that are only accessible on foot through this route. The route climbs from the Urubamba Valley over two high passes then descends to the jungle, reaching the middle of the cloud forest, where Machu Picchu comes into view.
• Machu Picchu: It sits where the high Andes give way to the edge of the Amazon. We’ll arrive on foot via the Sun Gate (Inti Punku) for your first views, then return the next day for a complete, guided visit of the citadel.

History

This 8-day private Inca Trail tour is a journey through landmark sites of great historical significance, from pre-Inca wonders like the Maras Salt Mines to monumental Inca works such as the Chinchero Archaeological Site, the circular terraces of Moray, and Machu Picchu.

The principal highlight is walking the ancient Inca Trail, where you’ll encounter unique historical sites found only on this adventure. You’ll also see Spanish colonial and modern influences in the city of Cusco and throughout the carefully chosen locations, all selected to preserve a consistent historical atmosphere.

Altitude

Altitude on this tour package with the Inca Trail varies gradually day by day. The highest point is Warmiwañusqa (Dead Woman’s Pass) at 4,215 m (13,829 ft.), reached on day 2 of the trail. The lowest point is Machu Picchu, which you’ll visit twice, on days 6 and 7.

A key part of the itinerary for proper acclimatization is the Sacred Valley (2,800 m / 9,186 ft.), where you’ll spend two nights in a 4-star hotel. The final overnight is in the city of Cusco at 3,399 m (11,152 ft.).

Weather

Because this 8-day Premium Inca Trail to Machu Picchu takes place in the Andean region, home to high mountains and fertile valleys, the weather can be unpredictable and change quickly. In the Andes there are two main seasons: the dry season (May–September) and the rainy season (November–March).

The dry season brings low humidity, sunny days, mild afternoons that can be windy, and clear nights that are particularly cold in June and July. The rainy season is humid, with mostly overcast days and frequent showers, similar afternoons, and relatively cool nights. Despite these contrasts, brief rains can occur during the dry season, and sunny days can appear in the rainy season. 

Difficulty

The difficulty level on this Premium 8-Day Inca Trail itinerary alternates between relaxed and active days. The first two days are vehicle-supported: we transfer you from Cusco to your hotel in the Sacred Valley and visit Chinchero, the Maras Salt Ponds, and Moray.

The Inca Trail days are highly active, with roughly 10 km (6 mi) of hiking per day. The most challenging sections are Day 2, with the ascent to the first high pass: Warmiwañusqa and Day 3 over the second pass: Runcuracay. Your pace is entirely your own; our tour guide will accompany you every step of the way and be ready to assist.

On Day 7, the Machu Picchu tour is easy: a gentle, on-foot visit of about 2.5 hours. Afterward, enjoy a scenic train ride and a private transfer to your Cusco hotel. The final day concludes with an airport transfer.

Places to Visit in Private Premium Inca Trail Tour 8 Day

Cusco Historic Center

After you arrive in Cusco, we’ll start exploring. Our first stop is the Main Square (Plaza de Armas), at the heart of the Historic Center, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Time is etched into every corner, street, and facade: massive Inca stone walls, cobblestone lanes, and colonial monuments. It’s a feast for the eyes, rich in architecture and cultural meaning, with centuries of history that give the city its distinctive character.

Super Sacred Valley Tour

This full-day cultural tour highlights the striking contrasts of the Andean landscape, from the fertile floor of the Sacred Valley to the high plateau where much of the tour unfolds. The itinerary features some of Cusco’s most renowned attractions, blending living traditions with Inca archaeological sites.

• Chinchero Town: Explore the meaning of Andean weaving in this town, a tradition proudly passed from mothers to daughters. Then visit the Chinchero Archaeological Site, where you can still admire its preserved terraces and expansive main plaza.
• Moray Terraces: A living testament to Inca ingenuity. They built round, stepped terraces to experiment with and adapt crops, refining techniques for the diverse conditions across their territory.
• Maras Salt Mines: Salt has been vital across cultures worldwide, and these pools embody that legacy. Worked since pre-Inca times, they preserve a living tradition that produces a distinctive salt from a unique natural source.
• Ollantaytambo Fortress: This monumental complex was crucial as a checkpoint controlling access to Cusco and, thanks to its location, as a site for astronomical observations. Later, during the turbulent period of Inca resistance, it assumed a distinctly military role.

Inca Trail to Machu Picchu

The classic 4-day Inca Trail is a demanding, multi-day trek that traverses the Andes, from Quechua valleys and high-altitude puna to warm cloud forest. Along the way you’ll encounter remarkable archaeological sites, sweeping natural scenery, and culminate with a memorable arrival at Machu Picchu.

• Willkaraqay & Patallacta: The first archaeological site visited on the trek. From the hilltop lookout of Willkaraqay you’ll see the sweeping agricultural terraces of riverside Patallacta, an ideal intro to the Classic Inca Trail.
• Runkurakay: A small, circular site located before the second high pass. Likely used as a checkpoint and shelter for travelers, it marks the transition toward the cloud-forest area.
• Sayacmarca: Dramatically set on a narrow ridge and reached by a single stairway. Expect ritual fountains and far-reaching views.
• Qonchamarca: A compact site near Sayacmarca, believed to have supported passing travelers on their mountain journey.
• Phuyupatamarca: “The City Above the Clouds”, famed for finely carved water channels, ceremonial baths, and terraces.
• Intipata: Sun-facing agricultural terraces hanging above the Urubamba. A peaceful stop to learn about Inca cultivation.
• Wiñay Wayna: “Forever Young,” a lush hillside complex of terraces, temples, and ritual baths.
• Sun Gate (Inti Punku): The original entrance to the citadel via Circuit 1, offering an exclusive, iconic first view of Machu Picchu at sunset.

Machu Picchu

On the final day, your effort pays off with a Machu Picchu guided tour through the citadel’s key temples and landmarks along Circuit 3. At a relaxed pace, your guide brings the site’s history and engineering to life, with time for photos from classic viewpoints.

Private Premium Inca Trail Tour 8 Day Frequently Asked Question