4 Day Inca Trail to Machu Picchu

Inca Trail 4D/3N Itinerary

The Classic Inca Trail 4 Days / 3 Nights covers approximately 43 km (26 miles) through the Andes, reaching a maximum altitude of about 4,200 m (13,780 ft) at Dead Woman’s Pass. Daily hiking times average between 5 to 8 hours depending on pace, weather, and campsite locations. Because an included duffle bag is transported by our porter team, trekkers only carry a light daypack during the hike.

Day 1: Cusco – KM 82 – Wayllabamba

Distance: ~12 km / 7.5 miles
Hiking Time: 5–6 hours
Starting Altitude: 2,700 m (8,860 ft)
Campsite Altitude: 3,000 m (9,840 ft)

Your Inca Trail 4D/3N adventure begins with an early transfer from Cusco to KM 82, the official trailhead. After crossing the Urubamba River, you hike through Andean farmland and archaeological sites before reaching Wayllabamba. This first day allows gradual acclimatization while introducing the landscapes and history of the ancient Inca road system.

Day 2: Wayllabamba – Dead Woman’s Pass – Pacaymayo

Distance: ~11 km / 6.8 miles
Hiking Time: 6–8 hours
Maximum Altitude: 4,200 m (13,780 ft) — Warmiwañusca (Dead Woman’s Pass)
Campsite Altitude: 3,600 m (11,810 ft)

This is the most physically demanding day of the trek, featuring a steady uphill climb through cloud forest and alpine terrain. Reaching Dead Woman’s Pass is a major milestone, offering sweeping mountain views before descending into the Pacaymayo valley for camp.

Day 3: Pacaymayo – Runkurakay – Sayacmarca – Wiñay Wayna / Phuyupatamarca

Distance: ~16 km / 10 miles
Hiking Time: 7–8 hours
Highest Point: Runkurakay Pass – approx. 3,950 m (12,960 ft)

Often considered the most beautiful day of the Inca Trail, you visit multiple archaeological sites including Runkurakay, Sayacmarca, and sometimes Phuyupatamarca. Trekkers typically camp near Wiñay Wayna, a stunning terraced complex overlooking the Urubamba Valley. If campsite logistics require, Wiñay Wayna is visited the following morning instead. This section features original Inca staircases, jungle landscapes, and breathtaking panoramic views.

Day 4: Wiñay Wayna / Phuyupatamarca – Sun Gate – Machu Picchu (Circuits 1C, 1B & 3B)

Distance: ~4–5 km / 2.5–3 miles
Hiking Time: 2–3 hours
Arrival Altitude at Machu Picchu: 2,430 m (7,970 ft)

Your final morning begins before sunrise as you hike toward the legendary Sun Gate (Circuit 1C – Inti Punku), the original Inca entrance to Machu Picchu. From here, enjoy your first panoramic view of the citadel emerging through the mountains.

After entering Machu Picchu, your guide leads you to the iconic Upper Terraces (Circuit 1B), where you capture the classic panoramic photos of the Lost City of the Incas.

The experience concludes with a fully guided exploration of Circuit 3B (Royalty Route – Lower Sector), included in your program. This guided visit explores temples, ceremonial plazas, terraces, and royal structures inside Machu Picchu, providing a comprehensive cultural and historical experience.

Total Trek Distance: 43 km / 26 miles • Maximum Altitude: 4,200 m (13,780 ft) • Difficulty Level: Moderate. This itinerary may vary slightly depending on campsite availability, but always includes highlights such as Wiñay Wayna, arrival via the Sun Gate (1C), panoramic views from Circuit 1B, and a guided visit of Circuit 3B.