Private 4-Day Inca Trail Trek to Machu Picchu with Local Guide

Summary

Authentic Inca Trail Hiking Adventure: What to Expect

You’ll hike ancient paths through mountain passes and cloud forests, sleep under Andean skies, and reach Machu Picchu at sunrise—all with expert local guides handling every detail.

What’s the experience like?

The day we set out from Cusco, it was still dark when our van rolled through the quiet streets. We stopped in Ollantaytambo just as the first bakeries opened—grabbed a warm tamal and coffee before heading on to km 82. At the trailhead, our guide Juan checked our permits and gave us a pep talk. The first hours on the Inca Trail felt surreal—mist hanging over the Urubamba River, distant roosters crowing from tiny farms. By midday, we reached Llactapata for lunch; I remember the smell of eucalyptus and the sound of porters laughing as they set up camp at Ayapata (3,300m). Our tents were already waiting—never thought I'd be so happy to see a sleeping bag.

The second day started early with hot coca tea brought right to our tent flap—a lifesaver before tackling Dead Woman’s Pass (4,200m). That climb is no joke; you’ll feel every step in your lungs. But reaching the top? The view is wild—layers of mountains rolling away under shifting clouds. After a steep descent into Pacaymayu Valley for lunch, we pushed up again over Runcuraccay Pass (4,000m). By sunset at Chaquicocha (3,600m), my legs were jelly but I couldn’t stop staring at the stars—no city lights for miles.

Day three felt lighter. The trail wound through cloud forest—ferns brushing our arms, birds calling overhead. We dropped nearly 1,000 meters down stone steps to Wiñaywayna (2,600m), where llamas wandered between ancient terraces. There was time for a real shower and even a quick nap before exploring nearby ruins with Juan explaining how water channels still work after centuries.

Our last morning started before dawn—everyone quietly packing by headlamp glow. At the checkpoint gate by 4am, there’s this buzz of excitement among all hikers waiting for it to open at 5:30. The final stretch to Sun Gate is mostly flat; then suddenly you’re looking down at Machu Picchu as mist lifts off its stones. We had two hours inside with Juan pointing out hidden corners and telling stories about old Inca rituals. Afterward, coffee in Aguas Calientes never tasted so good before catching the panoramic train back to Cusco.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Cusco to Ayapata Camp

• Drive to Km 82 via Ollantaytambo
• Hike Inca Trail to lunch spot
• Hike to Ayapata campsite

Day 2 — Ayapata to Chaquicocha Camp

• Hike Dead Woman's Pass
• Descend to Pacaymayu Valley for lunch
• Hike Runcuraccay Pass and descend to Chaquicocha

Day 3 — Chaquicocha to Wiñaywayna Camp

• Hike gentle trail through cloud forest
• Descend to Wiñaywayna campsite and explore

Day 4 — Wiñaywayna to Machu Picchu

• Hike to Sungate
• Hike down to Machu Picchu
• Tour Machu Picchu
• Train back to Cusco

Top questions

How tough is this trek? Do I need special training?

The Inca Trail is challenging but doable if you’re moderately fit. There are steep climbs and high altitude sections—training helps but isn’t required if you’re active.

Are meals and camping gear included?

Yes! All meals are freshly prepared by our cooks and comfortable tents are set up for you each night. You just carry your essentials; porters handle most of your gear.

Can vegetarians or people with dietary needs join?

Absolutely—just let us know your requirements when booking so we can plan your meals accordingly.

What’s special about this private tour compared to group treks?

You get more flexibility on pace and timing, plus personal attention from your guide—and usually quieter campsites too.

What’s included

Your own porter for up to 7kg of personal items; all transport during the trip; entrance fees for both Inca Trail and Machu Picchu; four breakfasts, three lunches, three dinners; expert mountain guides; comfy tents (two people per four-person tent); panoramic train ride back to Cusco; infant seats available if needed; dietary options on request—just tell us what you need when booking!