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Experience the Private and exclusive 4-Day Inca Trail Tour
Experience the Exclusive 4-Day Private Inca Trail journey, one of the biggest highlights of South America. Enjoy this exclusive private tour to Machu Picchu designed according to your preferences, and create amazing memories with our well-known Private Inca Trail to Machu Picchu.
We will take you on an adventure through the Peruvian Andes along the steps of our Incan ancestors. You will encounter reminders and legacies of their ancient cities, incredible architecture of the Inca baths, towering snow-capped peaks, lush rainforests dotted with bright flowers, and endless beauty only found deep in the mountains.
Explore more about the ancient culture with our Private Inca Trail guide tour Perfect for those seeking a unique and intimate adventure on one of the world’s most iconic trails.
- Overview
- Itinerary
- Inclusions
- Packing List
- Faqs
- Pricing
- Enquire Now
Trekking the legendary Inca Trail Exclusive Private Trek has always been considered a great achievement and feat of endurance. Now you can experience that same level of achievement and witness spectacular beauty with the added comfort of private facilities previously unavailable for this trek.
After a day of breathtaking mountain scenery, you can relax and enjoy exotic cuisine and wines, plus Peruvian pampering by a professional masseuse. Your troop of expert guides and porters will take care of moving the equipment, allowing you to trek in comfort and focus your energy on enjoying the hike and scenery.
- Highlight of this Tour: Inca Trail, Llactapata, Dead Woman’s Pass, Sun Gate, and Machu Picchu
- Hiking distance: 42km / 26miles
- Considerations: Permit Required
- Season: March through January
Itinerary at a Glance
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Day01
Cusco - Ollantaytambo - KM 82 - Llactapata - Huayllabamba - Ayapata
Explore Patallacta archaeological site and learn the history of the Incas
Day02Ayapata - Dead Woman’s Pass - Pacaymayu - Runkurakay Pass - Chaquiqocha
Hike up to Dead Woman's Pass, the highest point in the Inca Trail.
Day03Chaquiqocha - Phuyupatamarca Pass - Inti Pata - Wiñaywayna
Be amazed with the stunning landscapes and Inca Sites
Day04Wiñaywayna - Sun Gate - Machu Picchu - Aguas Calientes - Cusco
Have the first view of Machu Picchu from the Sun Gate and explore it.
Day 01Cusco - Piskacucho Km 82 - Llactapata - Ayapata:
Walking distance: 8.1 miles/13 km (6-7 hours)
Campsite altitude: 3300 meters/10826 feet (high) above sea level
Considered: Moderate day (getting used to the Inca Trail)
Weather: Warm and windyYou will be picked up at 5:00 am by the Vidal Expeditions team from your hotel in Cusco, Urubamba, or Ollantaytambo can be bit late. At your briefing,These timings will be confirmed because, depending on where you are staying, they might change.
After, we'll travel to Km 82 and arrive there around 9:00 AM. where we'll prepare for the trek, we'll pass through the first checkpoint on the Inca Trail to start our journey (please make sure you have your original passport with you to enter the Inca Trail).
The first 2 hours of the trek are relatively easy as we make our way to our first Inca site, Patallacta, which is an ancient Inca checkpoint for the approach to Machu Picchu.
From Patallacta, it’s another 30 minutes hike to our lunch stop. After lunch, we will hike for another two hours until we reach the first night’s campsite at Ayapata (3,300 meters/10,829 feet). On this last stretch, we pass through two small communities. If you want to buy any energy drinks or snacks, you can do so here. You can also buy any essential items, such as batteries, that you may have forgotten. We’ll arrive at our campsite by 5:00 p.m.
After settling in for a bit, you can relax and have a hot drink and snack with your team of porters, chefs, and guides. By 7:30 p.m., your dinner will be ready, and afterwards you can get some well-deserved rest.
Lunch & Dinner Meals
Moderate Difficulty
12 km (7.4 miles) Walking Distance
7 - 8 hours Walking Time
2,729 m (8,953 ft) Starting Elevation
2,990 m / 9,809 ft Highest ElevationDay 02Wayllabamba - Dead Woman´s Pass - Pacaymayu - Chaquiqocha:
Campsite altitude: 3600 meters / 11811feet (high) above sea level (chilly weather)
Considered: Top day (you will have survived the two highest passes)
Area: Andes and Cloud Forest
Weather: Cold and rainyTo get you ready for the day, your porters will wake you up early with a nice cup of coca tea. We will get started early today because it will be the hardest day to reach the Dead Woman's Pass (4215 meters/13829 feet), the highest pass on the route.
We'll hike for around five hours on reaching the pass, we’ll stop for a short break to enjoy the views before setting off again to descend to the next valley (Pacaymayu Valley—Hidden River).
It’s another hour and a half down the side of the valley to our lunch spot, and we have little time to rest here. Then we ascend for an hour to explore the first Inca site of the day, called Runkurakay. After we have explored this, we continue hiking towards the second pass Runkurakay at 3,990 m (13,123 ft). After the second pass, it’s another hour's downhill hike to reach the magnificent Inca site, Sayacmarca (an otherwise inaccessible village). where we will have outstanding views of the valley.Finally, we descend for half an hour more to reach Chaquiqocha, where we'll spend the night. We can do some stargazing, and we’ll point out the fascinating Inca constellations. In the magnificent Southern Hemisphere sky, away from all the artificial lighting, this sky is something to behold!
Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner Meals
Challenging Difficulty
9 km / 5.5 miles Walking Distance
7- 8 hours Walking Time
2,990 m / 9,809 ft Starting Elevation
4,215 m / 13,828 ft Highest ElevationDay 03Chaquiqocha - Third Pass - Wiñaywayna:
Campsite altitude: 2.600 meters / 8530 feet (high) above sea level (chilly weather)
Considered: easy day - all downhill!
Area: High Cloud Forest
Weather: Warm and very humidHaving finished Day 2 and started Day 3 is definitely deserving of praise! We get up early once more at 5:30 a.m. to start what is regarded as the most picturesque day of the entire Inca Trail.
Returning to a steady ascent, we start heading up to the third pass of the journey. The hike to the third pass takes two hours, and we'll stop at Puyupatamarca, a little Inca site, where we can get a glimpse of the illustrious Machu Picchu peak on the valley's other side.
We’ll stop here for a rest and have a quick tour of the site and take all the pictures; then, we keep walking down and begin to enter the jungle, known as the Cloud Forest. As we walk down, we will have the opportunity to see the majesty of Wakaywillka Mountain, the highest snow-capped mountain in the Sacred Valley, and a fantastic panoramic view of the Vilcabamba mountain range. Towards the end of the Inca Flats, we begin to make our way down to another Inca side called Intipata (Terraces of the Sun), from where we’ll have great views overlooking the Urubamba River.
We stop at Intipata (Terraces of the Sun), where we got a great view of the valley. By 1:00 PM, we reach our campsite where we will eat lunch and spend the rest of the afternoon free. We can visit the Wiñay Wayna Inca site(Forever Young) if you still have the energy, or you can unwind and prepare for your last day at Machu Picchu.
We like to spoil our guests as we enjoy our last feast with the porters and chefs. It’s an Inca Trail tradition to organize a ceremony in the evening to introduce the team to the tourists once again and to thank them for the great job done (if you wish to provide tips for them, then you can do so at this time).
It is advisable to go to bed at a reasonable time in order to get up in the early hours of the morning to arrive at Machu Picchu at the crack of dawn in the hopes that the weather will give us a beautiful sunrise over the ruins at Machu Picchu.
Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner Meals
Moderate - Challenging Difficulty
10km / 6.2 miles Walking Distance
9 - 10 hours Walking Time
3,600 m / 11,811 ft Starting Elevation
4,010 m / 13,156 ft Highest ElevationDay 04Sun Gate - Machu Picchu - The Lost City Of The Incas
Considered: The most exciting and magical day (early wake up 3.30AM)
Area: High Cloud and Subtropical Forest
Weather: Hot and very humid (bring lots of water)The wake-up time is 3:30 AM. We’ll eat breakfast at 4:00 AM and wait at the checkpoint to be one of the first to start trekking when they open the gates at 5:30 AM. We’ll wave goodbye to our team of porters and chefs, and then it’s "forward on" to the Sun Gate (Inti Punku). From here, we have spectacular views of the mountains and Machu Picchu in all its glory. We reach the Sun Gate by 6:30am, and then it’s just an hour's trek downstairs to reach the Lost City of the Incas.
As we approach Machu Picchu, the views of the city just get better and better! At about 7:40 a.m., we’ll reach the upper platform where you can get the classic postcard picture and enjoy thois mystical Inca site. Later, we walk down to the final checkpoint. After a bit rest, we enter Machu Picchu to begin our 2-hour private guided tour.
After the tour, you’ll be given your bus tickets to make your way down to Aguas Calientes, and you’ll have plenty of free time to climb one of the neighboring mountains, Huaynapicchu (which must be arranged ahead of time). Your guide will offer to meet you down in the village of Aguas Calientes to enjoy your last lunch in a local restaurant.
This is optional and not included. At lunch, he will hand out train tickets, so if you choose to skip, please arrange to get these before leaving him at Machu Picchu. Unless you arrange for an upgraded train, we will book the Expedition-class train departing Aguas Calientes at 14:55 hrs.
Please make sure you are on the platform at least 30 minutes ahead of time. This train will be 2 hours to Ollantaytambo, where our driver will meet you and drive you back to the city in our bus, then we will drop you off at your hotel.
Breakfast Meals
Moderate Difficulty
6km / 3.7 miles Walking Distance
3 - 4 hours Walking Time
2,600 m / 8,530 ft Starting Elevation
2,700 m / 8,858 ft Highest ElevationAt Vidal Expeditions, we are transparent and provide specific details of what is included and excluded in the Exclusive 4-Day Inca Trail private trek. We know this is very important so that you know exactly what to bring and don’t miss anything. We provide this information to ensure that you have an incredible experience during your trek.
WHAT IS INCLUDED?
Vidal Expeditions Team Provide
Permits and Entrance Fees
Inca Trail Pirmits
Once we receive your details and the deposit for the tour, we purchase all the necessary tickets for your trek (subject to availability). These permits will be for a specific date and will be in your name. Keep in mind there are only 230 tickets available per day. Unfortunately, this information can’t be modified under any circumstance once confirmed. Only your passport number can be updated.
Entry Ticket to Machu – Circuit 1, Route 1-C (Day 4)
All hikers along the famous trek in its different versions, they are allow to enter to Machu Picchu through the circuit 1, walk on the upper part the citadel, enjoy the panoramic views. Perfect for postcard photos and first intruduction of the Seven Wonder.
Entry Ticket to Machu Picchu – Circuit 3, Route 3-B (Day 4)
Discover more about Machu Picchu, walking through the lower sector, it allows you to explore some of the great spots, such as the Temple of the Sun, Water Fountains, the Urban sector, the Temple of the Condor and the farming terraces.
Service and Team
Pre-departure briefing
Once you have booked the Inca Trail 4 days tour with us, you will get a notification about the pre-departure briefing, where you will meet with your trekking guide and the tour group in our office the night before your Machu Picchu hike. During this briefing, you will receive important details about what to pack for Inca Trail trek. After, you will receive your duffle bag for your extra luggage, which will stay with our porter while you are hiking.
Professional Private Adventure Guide
All our tour guides have a great reputation for customer service and have years of experience guiding along the Machu Picchu Trek. Through their patience, responsibility, knowledge, passion for trekking, and pride in having been born in the land of the Incas, we ensure our tour guides provide an excellent experience for you when you explore the magical Machu Picchu.
Private Porters Team
At Vidal Expeditions, we include a personal porter who will be carrying your personal belongings in a duffle bag that we provide during this trek. This duffle bag cannot exceed 7 kg (14 lb). This weight includes the sleeping bag and mattress. You will be responsible for packing your duffle bag with your personal items (including your sleeping bag and mattress).
Personal Duffle bag
We included a personal duffle bag for your 4-day Trek. You will get this duffle bag at Vidal Expeditions office during your pre-departure briefing the night before your trek. This bag will be carried by our porters during the trek. It can be filled with your personal items, sleeping bag, and mattress, but the maximum allowable weight is 7 kg (15 lb).
Transportations
Private Transport
We include all the transportation during your trek. On the day 1, we will pick you up from your hotel in Cusco and take you to Piscacucho or the Km. 82 starting of the trek. At the end of the trek, the bus returning from Ollantaytambo to Cusco will drop you off at your hotel.
Vistadome Train Ticket
For the Inca Trail 4 Days to Machu Picchu, we include the return train ticket after you have explored Machu Picchu on the last day. The train ticket will be for one of the available trains scheduled for 14:20 hrs., 14:55 hrs., or 16:20 hrs.
Bus Ticket
The bus ticket from Machu Picchu down to Aguas Calientes once you are done exploring Machu Picchu is also included.
Equipment
Camping equipment
Vidal Expeditions leads tours to Machu Picchu with suitable camping equipment to make sure your trek is an experience of a lifetime.
- Tents: Our tents are Eureka for 4 people, which will be shared only with 2 people to ensure your comfort and enough space for your luggage.
- Dining tent: There will also be a spacious dining tent for you to enjoy each meal on this tour.
- Tables, chairs, and cooking equipment
- Portable Travel Toilet
- Inflatable Matresses
Medical First Aid Kit
All tour guides at Vidal Expeditions are very well trained in first aid. They received training courses every six months on how to assist someone who is in an emergency situation. Also, they are trained on how to supply balloon oxygen if someone requires it.
Meals
Food
At Vidal Expeditions,we included a private chef, we know food is such an important part of any vacation and getting the right fuel on an active holiday is crucial. For your trek, we include 3 breakfasts, 3 lunches, and 3 dinners. We cater to all dietary restrictions. Vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and others—just let us know your dietary restrictions at the time of your booking. Our team is well-trained to prepare the best food you've ever had with local and organic ingredients.
Water
Vidal Expeditions will provide you with water from the first lunch to the last breakfast. This water will be filtered, boiled, and cooled by our chef. You must bring your own water container, bottle, or camelback that can hold water for hiking for a few hours. We recommend a capacity of 2 liters.
Snacks
Our team will provide a snack every morning before leaving each campsite, so you can enjoy it during your hike throughout the day. There will be many breaks where you can enjoy the delicious local fruits, biscuits, and caramels.
WHAT IS NOT INCLUDED?
Sleeping bag
Every trekker along the Inca Trail needs a proper sleeping bag, which has to be for -15°C or 5°F. We recommend you bring your own, but if you don’t want to bring your own or don’t have one, you can rent a sleeping bag from us.
Walking Sticks/Trekking Poles
Hiking with trekking poles has its benefits—protect your knees while you are hiking downhill. Especially on the ancient Inca Trail, where there are many stairs up and down, trekking poles help you during the ascent and increase stability. If you don’t have a pair of trekking poles, you can rent them from our office.
Breakfast on the First day
We do not provide breakfast on the day of your departure. However, most hotels offer breakfast during your stay. In case your hotel does not provide breakfast, we will stop at a restaurant near Ollantaytambo where you will be able to purchase breakfast.
Lunch in Aguas Calientes
Lunch on the last day at Aguas Calientes is not included in the trek. However, you and the group can enjoy the last lunch together at a restaurant recommended by your tour guide.
Travel Insurance
We recommend buying travel insurance before leaving your country in case something happens during your visit to Peru.
Tips for our team
Tips are not included. Tipping the team is typical on any excursion to Machu Picchu. Although we pay good salaries to our entire team, tips are welcome as a token of your appreciation for the team's hard work.
Huayna Picchu
Huayna Picchu is the mountain that stands next to Machu Picchu. It is a really famous hike that normally takes 45 minutes to hike up the narrow, steep steps to the top with a great view of Machu Picchu citadel. If you would like to hike Huayna Picchu after your tour to Machu Picchu, there is an extra cost of USD 75.00. Also, this booking must be done at least 3 months in advance due to its popularity.
PRIVATE INCA TRAIL PACKING LIST
At Vidal Expeditions, we focus on making your trip an unforgettable experience, and we want to provide all the details you need to know before leaving your country and starting your life experience in Peru.
Pre-Departure Briefing.
A briefing is essential before you start your private Inca Trail hike. A night before your trip, you need to meet with your trekking tour guide, who will provide you with all the details about this 4-day trek to Machu Picchu. All our briefings are at 6:30 p.m. It can be at your hotel or in our office, and if you are not available at this time, you should coordinate a new time with our office staff.
Duffle bags.
After your briefing, you will be available to receive a duffle bag, which you need to fill with your personal items. It has to be a maximum of 7 kg, including your sleeping bag and mattress; without those, you have an extra 4 kg, which is for your personal stuff.
This duffle bag will be carried by our porters during your trek; you should fill it with the items you are using during the day. You can return your duffle bag once you return to Cusco after your trek..
Pickup
All our pickups are from your hotel in Cusco, according to the time your tour guide will tell you during your briefing the night before your tour. In case you are staying in AirB&B you should explain and provide us the address of it.
We also pickup during our route driving to the trailhead, it can be in Chinchero, Urubamba, Ollontaytambo.
After your trek, our guide will drop you off at the same hotel where we picked you up before your tour. In case you change hotels, please let us know which one is your new hotel.
Important
- Passport
- Valid, STUDENT CARD (if you booked as a student)
- Immigration Card (given on the plane as you enter Peru)
- Good daypack (the smaller, the better)
- Water storage: Water reservoir like Camelbaks are encouraged - but enough for at least 2-3 liters.
- Comfortable hiking boots (lightweight with good soles)
FOR YOUR DUFFEL:
Porters will carry up to 7 kg of your personal items. This must include your sleeping bag and air mat (if you bring or rent one). From us, these two items weigh 3.5 kg.
- 2-3 wicking t-shirts
- 2-3 hiking pants
- 4 sets of undergarments.
- 1 Fleece
- 1 Warm, down jacket: gets very cold at night
- 1 Rain jacket and pants
- 1 sun hat
- 1 wool hat
- Headlamp: essential
- Waterproof gloves
- Comfortable shoes for camp or flip flops
- Walking boots
- Waterproof jacket/rain poncho
Battery Charger: There is no place to plug in while trekking!
Large plastic bags: to help organize and keep clean from dirty.
Sleeping bag: Recommend down bags for -10C at least
TOILETRIES:
- Sunscreen
- Face moisturizer
- Bug spray
- Handsanitizer
- Wet wipes
- Toothbrush and paste
- Toiletpaper
- Personal medication
- First aid kit: band aids, moleskin, etc.
INSIDE YOUR DAYPACKS:
A daypack can be any size for hiking, but we always say the smaller, the better. Inside Machu Picchu, bags larger than 25 liters will not be allowed in. If it is larger, you will need to store it outside the citadel gates. But don´t worry, they have a secure storage facility.
Water: we supply clean water at each meal. You are responsible for your first morning of water only as we won't have time to filter water until your first lunch.
- Sunhat
- Rain gear
- Fleece
- Camera
- Music (IPhone)
- Handsanitizer
- Toilet paper and small plastic bag for waste
- Extra Money for Souvenirs, Drinks & Tips
- Earplugs
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS (FAQs) INCA TRAIL PRIVATE TOUR
Here some frequently asked question about the Inca trail to Machu Picchu
At Vidal Expeditions, we try to make the booking system as easy as possible for you. Once you decide to do the Inca Trail, we will send you a booking form where you need to complete all the required details, which can’t be changed once confirmed. We also need a previous deposit of $200 USD per person. As soon as you pay it, we immediately book a spot for the Inca Trail. Once we are done with it, we will send you your invoice and confirmation that all the booking processes have been set up satisfactorily.
To book the Inca Trail permit, you should do it in advance because there are limitations on how many people can hike this trail every day; the capacity is 230 tourists per day. Once your permit is confirmed, the start dates and your name cannot be changed under any circumstance. According to government rules, the only information we can change is the passport number, which you should take care of before confirming the booking form.
The government will only allow us to change passport numbers if we have a copy of the new and old passports. If you no longer have your old passport, any government-issued ID will be accepted, as long as the name is the same. Also, make sure your passport does not expire six months or less after your trip.
The Inca Trail Private Trek is an exclusive four-day hiking tour to Machu Picchu through the acient path, and it is only for the people you want to involve in your group. This trek will be accompanied by our private trekking team, such as a private guide, a private staff of porters, and a private chef. The perfect tour for those who want to enjoy in private all the wonders of the Classic Inca Trail.
Yes. It is possible, if you are ok with taking the same train out of Aguas Calientes that is part of your original itinerary, which is typically at 14:30 or 14:55 that afternoon, that there is no additional charge to move the train back a day. If you need us to secure your hotel or another visit to Machu Picchu, this will be an additional cost. If you do choose to spend one more night in Aguas Calientes, make sure you tell the Vidal Expeditions office at least one month in advance so your train ticket is purchased for the right day
Yes, it can be a hike for beginners, but with previous training, you must be well prepared, especially with the altitude and good hiking gear. If you are a beginner, we recommend joining a small group or private tour where you can take your time along the trek.
Yes, it is. The Inca Trail 4-Day Trek qualifies as a moderately challenging hike in Peru, so it needs good preparation and good physical condition. After day two, you will be hiking on steps up and down until you get to Machu Picchu, so we recommend training for some hikes before starting this trek.
The hardest part of the Inca Trail is the second day, where you will reach the Dead Woman's Pass at 4,215 meters (13,828 feet). The hike will depend on your first camp, which usually takes about 4 to 5 hours hiking up and 2 more hours down to the Pacaymayo camp. If you have Chaquiqocha as your second camp, you need to climb the two passes in one day.
The highest point on the Classic Inca Trail is Dead Woman's Pass, located at 4,215 meters (13,828 feet). Hikers usually get there on the second day of the four-day itinerary.
Well, if you get sick or injured along the Inca Trail before reaching the Dead Womans Pass, your guide will assist you and take you way back to reach Ollantaytambo town. This can be done by a local porter or riding a horse. However, if you get sick or injured after the pass, they will carry on their back towards Machu Picchu or km 106 of the railway, where you can take the train to reach one of the closest towns. Keep in mind there is not any abulance access during this trek.
The scariest part along the Classic Inca Trail to Machu Picchu is the climb to the Dead Woman's Past. It is the steepest section, and a few people give up climbing these stairs. We recommend having a previous train and acclimating to the altitude, which will help you a lot to complete this famous trek.
Actually, yes, you can. There are a few public toilets along the trail, especially on the first day, but keep with you a roll of toilet paper and some Peruvian coins. After the second day, the toilets are more basic; Vidal Expeditions as a tour operator brings their own portable toilets and set them up at different campsites and lunch spots.
Walking sticks are always helpful to trekkers, but particularly on this trek. There are so many stairs that you will walk down, all made by the Incas 600 years ago. They vary in height and are not all straight. Using walking sticks can help take the pressure off your knees while doing this portion of the trail. Plus, they will help you get up the mountain as well. For those who are bringing their own, make sure you have rubber tips, or the rangers will not allow you to use them. Rubber tips can be purchased in Cusco if you forget before you leave, as well as at the beginning of the trail.
All hotels in Cusco offer free storage where you can leave your extra luggage. If you change hotels after the trek, they can also store your luggage. At the Vidal Expeditions office, we also have free luggage in case you need it. Get more information from our office team.
The weather in Cusco and parts of the Andes is unpredictable, even if the weather forecast says it’s sunny. We can’t trust it. It is an impossible question for us to answer. Historically, April through September is the dry season; November through February is the rainy season; and March and October are bridge months—a mixture of both. But the clouds have not followed these rules in the last few years. Prepare for sun and rain, no matter when you come. As far as temperatures go, that is consistent throughout the year. Mornings and evenings are always cold. Make sure to bring a fleece jacket for the mornings and a down jacket for the evenings. Once the sun is up, you should be comfortable hiking and touring Machu Picchu in short sleeves. Long pants (for yoga or hiking) are encouraged to protect against the mosquitoes, which can be a nuisance in Aguas Calientes.
From: Two Trekkers USD $1250.00 per person
From: Three Trekkers USD $1200.00 per person
From: Four Trekkers USD $1050.00 per person
From: Five Trekkers to more USD $950.00 per person
* Adicional single tents $30USDAdditional Items
*Upgrade the returning train to Vistadome service( with larger windows and more confortable seats $60US per personThank you for your interest in having an adventure travel experience in Peru curated by Vidal Expeditions. Please take a moment to complete our short form, so one our friendly Adventure Consultants could provide you all the information for your trip of a lifetime in Peru.
Our Pledge | Your privacy is respected and protected. Vidal Expeditions will never share, sell, or make public any of your personal contact information to third parties.
Feel free to reach us via email at vidalexpeditions@gmail.com or by calling us directly at +51 951 359 694
Monday - Friday: 09:00 to 18:00 Hrs.
Saturday: 09:00 to 13:00 Hrs.
Prolongacion Av. Grau L-8, Santiago - Cusco
Best SellerTour Price4 Days / 3 Nights
Private Inca Trail to Machu Picchu
Price from $ 950 USD Per Person
Group Size Up to 8 People
What's it like
Private Inca Trail to Machu Picchu Map
WHY CHOOSE VIDAL EXPEDITIONS FOR THE CLASSIC INCA TRAIL?
Vidal Expeditions a licensed local operator based in Cusco. We offer personalized Inca Trail experience for travelers from around the world. Over 8,000 trekkers served, 98% five-star reviews, licensed by MINCETUR are just some reason why choose us.
SMALL GROUPS
Our group size on our Classic Inca Trail is capped at 8 people, guaranteeing a more personal experience at every archaeological site that we visit along this unforgettable journey to Machu Picchu.
TOP CAMPING GEAR
We use Eureka Mountain tents, Thermarest inflatable mattresses, portable dining tents, and insulated sleeping systems designed for high-altitude trekking. So you rest well and wake up ready for the next day adventure.
LOCAL TOUR GUIDES
Every guide has completed the Inca Trail hundreds of times. Many have been guiding this route for over ten years and have personally helped thousands of hikers reach Machu Picchu safely. All of them have WFR training course.
BEST ADVENTURE FOOD
Along the Inca Trail Trek, we include high-energy snacks, hearty soups, fresh fruits, hot drinks, high-protein meals and desserts, catered to vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free diets to keep you fueled daily.
BEST TREKKING TEAM
We don't just hire porters, we support local families. Our guides, chefs, and porters receive above-average wages and professional gear, ensuring fair work, dignity, and lasting community impact.
PERSONAL DUFFEL BAG
We include a 7 kg personal duffel bag in the price. We also hire more porters to ensure that the weight is distributed evenly to make their jobs easier, as well as for your own safety and comfort during the Inca Trail trek.
Before you Go: What to Know About the trek to Machu Picchu through the Private Inca Trail
The Private Inca Trail 4 Days, is one of the most famous trekking routes in the world, leading travelers to the Seven World Wonders Machu Picchu in Peru. The trail goes through diverse ecosystems, from high-altitude mountains to the lush cloud forest.
- Starting Point: The Inca Trail adventure starts in Cusco, but if you are staying in Urubamba or Ollantaytambo, we also pick up from these places.
- Ending Point: Our service ends with a drop-off at your hotel; it can be in Ollantaytambo, Urubamba, or Cusco.
- Km 82: Km 82, also known as Piscacucho, is the starting point for your hike along the Inca Trail. Here, trekkers must show their tickets and original passports according to regulations.
- Dead Woman's Pass: The Dead Woman's Pass, 4,215 meters (13,828 feet), is considered the highest point along the Inca Trail, and getting there can be very challenging.
- Camping Area: The camping sites along the route are strategically placed at different points on the trail, providing necessary rest and an opportunity to soak in the surroundings.
- Bathrooms: The facilities on the Inca Trail can vary according to the hiking days, from basic squat toilets to pit toilets; however, tour operators like Vidal Expeditions offer portable toilets during the hike.
- Inca Trail Experience: Hiking it offers scenic beauty, historical & cultural connection, physical challenge, and spiritual and emotional impact. These are just a few reasons why you should hike the Inca Trail.
- Inca Trail Permits: The permits for the trail are limited and often sell out 3to 6 months in advance, your booking is only confirmed once your permit is secured with your passport details.
Choosing the Private 4-Day Inca Trail is about more than just a hike; Trek at your own pace with guides focused solely on your group's interests. Adjust the itinerary, take longer breaks, photograph freely, and enjoy quieter campsites with better accommodations tailored to your preferences.
- Personalized Experience
- Flexible Schedule
- Exclusivity & Privacy
- Enhanced Comfort
- Dedicated Team
- Cost Consideration
All information meetings for the Inca Trail are held at our office or in your hotel at 5:00 p.m., the night before the tour begins. If you cannot attend, you must coordinate in previous days of the tour. These meetings last approximately 30 to 45 minutes.
Vidal Expeditions provides complimentary hotel pickup for all Inca Trail 4 Days participants staying within Cusco city center. Our team will collect you directly from your accommodation, ensuring a stress-free start to your adventure.
- Hotels: Direct pickup from your hotel lobby
- Airbnb/Private Rentals: Please provide your WhatsApp number and exact address during booking
- Pickup Time: Confirmed during your pre-departure briefing (typically 5:00 AM)
- Pickup Area: Cusco city center and nearby districts (Plaza de Armas, San Blas, Wanchaq, Santiago)
Enjoy complete flexibility with your dedicated guide and porter team focused exclusively on your group. Set your own pace, linger at sites that captivate you, and customize daily schedules around your interests.
Experience quieter trails away from crowds, enhanced comfort in camps, personalized attention to dietary preferences, and the freedom to create intimate memories without group constraints or rushing.
TheInca Trail 4 Days is widely considered as Moderate to Challenging tour. While it doesn’t require technical climbing skills, it is a significant physical and mental undertaking due to the high altitude, steep terrain, and the sheer number of stone steps.
- Inca Trail 4-Day Length: 42 km / 26 miles
- Max. Altitude: 4,215m / 13,828 ft
- Highest Camp: Pacaymayu (2nd night) 3.600 m.
- Lowest Point: Machu Picchu 2,430 m. /7,972 ft
- Total Elevation Gain: 2,152m /7,063ft.
- Climate: The climate on the Inca Trail is famous for its "four seasons in one day" phenomenon. Because the trail climbs from the Sacred Valley into high mountain passes and then drops into the subtropical cloud forest, you will experience everything from freezing alpine winds to humid jungle heat.
Planning your Private Inca Trail adventure? Follow these expert recommendations from our experienced guides to ensure you have the best possible experience on your 4-day trek to Machu Picchu.
- Book in Advance: It is very important to book your Inca Trail Trek far in advance, at least 6 - 8 months due the limited tickets. Specially on the high season (May-August). "Inca Trail 2026 permits are strictly limited to 230 tourists per day.
- How to Book: Pay $200 deposit to secure your spot. Balance can be completed before trek departure. Book online here or WhatsApp us at +51 951 359 694.
- Choose the Right Season: We highly recommend hiking the Inca Trail during the dry season May to October. Better views and enjoy better.
- Acclimatate in Cusco: Spend at least 2 - 3 days in Cusco or Sacred Valley before starting the Inca Trail Hike, even if you are physically fit, altitude sickness can affect everyone differently.
- Use Packing List: Make use of our packing list for trekkers to make sure you have everything you need without going over the weight limit.
- New Boots: Never start the trail with brand-new boots. If you buy new ones for the trip, wear them every day for two weeks before you leave.
- Stay hydrated: Drink 3 – 4 liters of water daily. Altitude and exertion dehydrate you faster than you realize. Water alone isn't enough; bring electrolyte powder or tablets to prevent muscle cramping during the long Day 2 climb.
- Contact Vidal Expeditions: A few weeks get in contact with Vidal Expeditions to make sure everything is ready for your adventure to Machu Picchu.
You only need a small daypack (20-30L) for the Inca Trail 4-day trek. We will provide you with a duffel bag for your extra items (extra clothes, sleeping bag, etc.) that will transported by our porters. Your extra luggage can be safely stored for FREE at:
- Hotel: Your Cusco hotel (most hotels offer free storage for guests) even if you are not staying at the same hotel after the trip.
- Vidal Expeditions Office: Our Vidal Expeditions office (free for all clients).
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