Inca Trail Hike 4D/3N &
Rainbow Mountain + Red Valley 1 Day

Highlights

1. Highlights

   The government has sanctioned a small portion of the thousands of miles of Inca Trail preserved for this hike. This popular classic route is 26 miles and takes 4-days. You can do this same route at a slower pace for a 5-day trek. For those wanting to make it more challenging, there is a 7-day trek that combines the Salkantay pass with the Inca Trail. There is also s short 2-day version, that has one day of hiking and one day at Machu Picchu. No matter which route you choose, you will need a PERMIT to do the trek.

2. Itinerary Overview

   • Day 1: Km 82 – Llactapata- Ayapata (Trekking Distance: 8.7 miles/14 km (6-7 hours)
   • Day 2: Dead Woman´s Pass – Runcuraccay Pass – Chaquiccocha (Trekking distance: 9.94 miles/16 km (7-8 hours)
   • Day 3: Chaquiccocha – Wiñaywayna (Trekking Distance: 6.2 miles/10km (5 hours)
   • Day 4: Machu Picchu (The most exciting and magical day (early wake up 3:30 AM)
   • Day 5: Rainbow Mountain & Red Valley.

3. IMPORTANT NOTE

   The Ministry of Culture in Peru is in charge of all regulations of the Inca Trail, including permits and campsites. To enter the Inca Trail, you must have a permit that matches your NAME, PASSPORT NUMBER, NATIONALITY, and AGE issued by the Ministry of Culture. Only licensed Inca Trail tour operators can secure these, and they are not transferable in date or name at any time. If you are unable to start your Inca Trail trek on your start date, you can not transfer to another person.  If you need to change your start date, you will need to make sure permits still exist for the new date and purchase a new permit. These are all rules of the government of Peru that we need to follow.

   If permits are sold out for your desired start date, there are lots of other roads that lead to Machu Picchu. We can help you find the perfect trek for you.

Inclusions

1. Included

   • Professional Guides
     All of our guides studied English and tourism at Cusco National University. They all grew up in the Cusco region, and are committed to teaching others about their heritage. They are fun yet professional and will ensure you are safe and happy.
   • Permits
     As soon as we receive your details and deposit, we will purchase your permits (pending availability, check our Inca Trail Availability). These permits are for a specific date and in your name. They can´t be changed once confirmed. Only your passport number is allowed to be updated. The permit includes an entrance to Machu Picchu.
   • Briefing
     The night before your trek, you will come to our office for your briefing. You will receive your duffel bag that will stay with your porters while you hike. This bag should not exceed 7kg/14 lbs and does need to include your sleeping bag and air mattress.
   • Porters
     We include a personal porter who is responsible for carrying your duffel bag. There is no additional fee for this. You will not have access to your duffel bag until your evening campsite.
   • Transportation
     You will have transportation included in this trek. You will be picked up directly from your hotel around 4 a.m. (unless you are staying in Ollantaytambo) and brought to KM 82 to begin your trek. Also included will be the Expedition Train from Aguas Calientes. You may also upgrade to the Vistadome Train for $75 per person. Once you arrive at the train station, we will take you back to your hotel in Cusco. Additionally, your round trip bus ticket from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu will be included.
   • Equipment
     Alpaca Expeditions has the best equipment. We use Eureka Timberline 4 person tents that are shared by only two people. You will also have a spacious dining tent to enjoy your meals in.
   • Food
     The Alpaca Expeditions chefs cook delicious meals that many previous trekkers have loved. We honor all food restrictions, so be sure to add any that you have on your booking form and let your guide know at your briefing. Food is typically all served family-style.
   • You will enjoy breakfast, lunch, and dinner each day for the trek along with a happy hour of tea and snacks. A snack will be provided each morning for you to enjoy along the hike. Your last meal with your chef will be after breakfast on day four. Lunch the last day is not included.
   • Water
     Beginning from your first lunch until your last breakfast, Alpaca Expeditions will supply all the water needed. This water is boiled, filtered, and then cooled before distributing. You must bring personal water bottles and or a camelback. We recommend carrying about 3L worth. You will be able to refill your water at each meal.
   • First Aid
     Every Alpaca Expeditions guide has received training in first aid from a physician. We conduct mandatory training sessions every February, which every single Alpaca tour guide must attend. Your tour guide will always have a first-aid kit for basic medical situations (traveler´s diarrhea, cuts, scrapes, etc.) and oxygen. We will get you off the trail as quickly and comfortably as possible if needed, and ensure you get directly to a clinic for treatment.
   • Extras
     We believe it´s the attention to small details that separates us from other tour companies. Every trekker receives a small pillow to sleep with, a foam mattress for insulation, a day pack cover to protect their things while hiking, and a rain poncho. We will work hard to create your best vacation.
   • Satellite Phones
     Our top priority will always be the safety of our clients and our team. While all our guides are prepared and trained to deal with most issues clients have on the mountain. Being a phone call away from any doctor, hospital, or friend helps everyone feel assured that they are safe. Radios, which all our guides have, are limited in how far they can reach, so Alpaca Expeditions has added Satellite Phones to every trek. Every guide will have a fully charged phone that can be used anywhere on the mountain to connect us anywhere in the world. And they can be used by our clients for non-emergencies as well. While they are not cheap to use, they are available just in case you need to check in on the puppy you left at home with grandma.
   • Taxes and Fees
     All taxes and permit fees associated with this trek are included in the listed price.

2. Not Included

   • Rentals
     Each trekker will need a sleeping bag for camping. Inflatable air mattresses and walking sticks (with rubber tips) are optional but highly recommended for additional comfort and support.If you prefer not to bring your own, the following items are available for rent:Sleeping Bag: $25
     Inflatable Air Mattress: $20
     Walking Sticks (Pair): $20
     For the Rainbow Mountain hike, walking poles can also be rented for an additional cost of USD 10 per person.
   • Huayna Picchu
     Huayna Picchu is the mountain that stands next to Machu Picchu. It is a 45-minute hike to the top. Going back down is quite steep if you are scared of heights. You would do this after your tour of Machu Picchu. The cost is $75. Arrangements need to be made at least one month in advance due to popularity. Please understand that the weather is out of our control.

Price

1. Price

   $940 per person

2. Student Discount

   $35 off per person

   Student discounts apply to anyone who has a valid UNIVERSITY STUDENT CARD at the time of the trek or who is 17-years-old or younger. For those using a University Student Card our under 17-years-old, we need to see a copy of their card or passport at the time of booking to receive the discount.

3. Additional Items

   Below is a quick list of prices, but check our Additional Options section for more details.

4. Huayna Picchu

   Huayna Picchu is the iconic peak that rises beside Machu Picchu, famous for its steep stone pathways and breathtaking views. The hike typically takes about 45 minutes to 1 hour to reach the summit, depending on your pace. Although this portion is done independently, your guide will accompany you to the checkpoint and point out the trail entrance before you begin.

   This hike requires an additional entrance ticket, which we can secure for you in advance, as availability is very limited.

   Huayna Picchu tickets are issued in timed entry groups to manage trail capacity. The sessions currently offered are:

   • Group 1: Entry from 7:00–8:00 AM
   • Group 2: Entry from 9:00–10:00 AM

   We usually book the 9:00–10:00 AM entry so you can fully enjoy your guided tour of Machu Picchu first, then begin the hike without rushing. Once inside the checkpoint, you may take your time ascending and descending.

   The additional ticket cost is $75 USD per person.

5. Vistadome Train

   All our tours include the Expedition Train, which is typically booked between 2:30 pm – 3:20 p.m. from Aguas Calientes.

   If you prefer an upgraded experience, the Vistadome Train offers larger panoramic windows, more spacious seating, and onboard entertainment. The departure time for the Vistadome depends on availability and is usually scheduled at 1:37 p.m., 2:55 p.m., or 4:43 p.m. This train generally travels to the Ollantaytambo station, where private transportation will be waiting to take you back to your hotel.

   If you would like a train that travels to Poroy or directly to Cusco, this can also be arranged with advance notice, though it is subject to availability and may incur an additional cost.

   The Vistadome upgrade from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo is $75 per person 

Travel Info

1. BRIEFINGS

   The evening before your trek, you will attend a 6:00 p.m. briefing at our office with your guide and the rest of your group. During this meeting, your guide will review the final details of the adventure and answer any last questions you may have.

   You will also receive your duffel bag, which will be carried by the porters throughout the trek. This bag can hold up to 7 kg / 14 lbs in total, including your sleeping bag and air mattress if you choose to bring or rent them from us. Packing in layers works best for changing weather conditions along the trail.

2. DUFFEL BAGS

   You will receive your duffel bags at your briefing. Your porters will carry them and have them returned to you at each campsite. They measure 66 cm long X 36 cm wide/2ft long X 1ft wide.

   Every duffel has a maximum weight of 7kg. Remember 4kg will be for your clothes and other personal items. The remaining 3kg will be for your sleeping bag and pad.

3. PICKUPS

   Alpaca Expeditions is one of the only companies to pick you up directly from your hotel. As long as your hotel is in the center of Cusco city, we will coordinate this pickup based on a time that your guide will discuss at the briefing. Pick up times may vary 30 – 45 minutes based on traffic conditions and previous pickups.

   Cusco is an old city with cobblestoned streets and very narrow passageways. Smaller hotels and Airbnbs are often located on streets that cars can´t pass through. They also are frequently on hillsides with long steep climbs, making it difficult to carry luggage. We highly recommend that you book accommodations with better access. We have a list of hotels that are all comfortable with easy access to pick up and drop off. HOTEL LIST HERE.

   Some treks will allow for pickups in the Sacred Valley, which is outlined below.

   The following chart refers to possible locations we can pick you up from when beginning the tour.

   Trek	Possible Starting Locations
   Inca Trails	Cusco, Urubamba, Yunahuara & Ollantaytambo
   Salkantay Treks	Only Cusco
   Lares Trek	Only Cusco
   Huchuy Qosqo Trek	Only Cusco
   Ausangate and Rainbow Treks	Only Cusco
   Day Tours	Cusco, Urubamba & Ollantaytambo

    

4. RETURNING TO CUSCO

   We take care of every detail for your journey back to Cusco, so you can simply enjoy the moment and reflect on your amazing adventure.

   Once you finish your visit at Machu Picchu, a shuttle bus will take you down to Aguas Calientes. This ride takes about 25 minutes, and buses run all day on a first-come, first-served basis.

   From Aguas Calientes, you will take the tourist train to Ollantaytambo (approximately 1 hour 45 minutes). Upon arrival, look for our team member dressed in green and holding the Alpaca Expeditions sign at the station exit.

   • Train services to Poroy or Cusco are limited, available only upon request, and require an additional fee. They are not always operated by the train companies.

   From Ollantaytambo, you will travel in our private transportation for about 2 hours to Cusco. The route ends at Calle Arcopata, where your stored luggage will be waiting. Because large buses are not permitted to enter the historic center, a smaller vehicle will then take you directly to your hotel for a smooth and comfortable end to your trek.

5. MACHU PICCHU ENTRANCE & CIRCUITS

   Machu Picchu now operates with specific timed entrances and assigned circuits.

   The site is divided into three main circuits:

   • Circuit 1 (Upper viewpoints: 1A, 1B, 1C, 1D)
   • Circuit 2 (Central areas of the citadel: 2A, 2B)
   • Circuit 3 (Lower sections: 3A, 3B, 3C, 3D)

   For Inca Trail hikers, the standard visit includes:

   • Circuit 3B at 8:00 or 9:00 AM (subject to government availability)
   •  A short guided visit through part of Circuit 1B when you arrive through the Sun Gate on the final day of the trail

   After you complete your assigned circuit, park rangers will guide you toward the exit, as re-entry is not permitted.

   If you would like to spend more time exploring additional areas of Machu Picchu, you can request:

   An additional entrance ticket for a different circuit

   Extra tickets are:

   • Subject to availability
   • At an additional cost, which varies depending on the circuit you choose

   We are very happy to help secure this upgrade for you upon request.

6. HUAYNAPICCHU/MACHU PICCHU MOUNTAIN

   Viewing Machu Picchu from above is a truly spectacular experience, which is why hiking one of the surrounding mountains is a popular optional add-on.

   Huayna Picchu (circuit 3A)

   This is the famous peak seen behind the citadel in classic photos. The trail is steep but rewarding, taking about 45 minutes up and 45 minutes down.

   Huayna Picchu entrance tickets are sold in specific time slots, which determine when you must begin the hike:

   • Entry times are at 7:00 AM and 9:00 AM

   We typically reserve a later morning session, giving you time to enjoy the full guided tour of Machu Picchu first. The hike is done independently, but your guide will bring you to the trail entrance.

   Machu Picchu Mountain (circuit 1A)

   This mountain offers broader panoramic views and a longer climb, roughly 1.5 hours up and 1.5 hours back down.

   Entry times are:

   • 6:00 AM or 8:00 AM

   Due to these early start windows, this hike cannot be combined with the full guided tour included in the 4-Day or 7-Day Inca Trail itineraries on the same day. You would need a second entrance ticket and an additional visit on the following day.

7. HEALTH CONCERNS

   You must be honest with your guide about any health conditions or concerns you might have. While our guides are not medical professionals, they do have first aid training. We also work with a clinic in Cusco that can help assist our team.

   You are responsible for assessing whether a Tour is suitable for you. You should consult your physician to confirm your fitness for travel and participation in any planned activities. You should seek your physician’s advice on vaccinations and medical precautions. Alpaca Expeditions will not provide medical advice. It is your responsibility to assess the risks and requirements of each aspect of the Tour based on your unique circumstances, limitations, fitness level, and medical requirements.

   If you develop extreme altitude sickness or any other illness that prevents you from hiking, and you still wish to visit Machu Picchu by train, we will work with you to coordinate this trip. Since this will be a new trip, it may require additional fees. We will use as much of the original itinerary to keep costs low.

   If you experience issues while hiking and can not continue, a porter will accompany you to the closest road and wait while a car comes to pick you up and bring you to the nearest health clinic.

8. GROUP TOURS

   Group tours are made up of all different types of people, with various hiking skills and ages. By agreeing to a group tour, you agree that some people might be slower or faster than you are. Everyone can go at their own pace for the trek, and the guide will work with the group to spend time with everyone. Groups might request some modifications to the tour, and the guide will work with everyone to make the best decision for the group.

9. STRIKES

   Unfortunately, strikes are frequent in Peru and can disrupt our tours. Roads are often blocked, and trains stopped. We will make sure your trek continues as planned, even if that means leaving the night before your start date. Under these circumstances, tours might need to be canceled. But our operations department will coordinate with you in this situation. Your safety is always our top concern and will dictate how we decide.

10. LOST ITEMS

    You are responsible for your items throughout the Tour. Please be diligent about where you leave your things and remember to remove all items from our vans, your tents, restaurant, etc. Do not leave anything unintended during your hike. Other trekkers or teams might pick it up not knowing whos it is.

11. TIPS

    Tipping is part of the tradition of any trek to Machu Picchu. While we pay good wages to our entire team, anything extra is always appreciated. Please know that this is not obligatory and that you should never feel pressured into this.

    Typically the participants in a group pool their tipping money together for the porters and chef. The amount recommended is different per trek and listed below. For the guide, this is more personal and needs to be decided based on your relationship with them and done separately from the group. Porters and Chefs prefer soles if possible. Guides are happy with U.S. dollars, Peruvian Soles, or even your credit card 😉

    Trek	Per Porter	Chef
    Inca Trails (4, 5 and 7 Days)	60 – 80 soles	150 soles
    2D/1N Inca Trail with Camping	50 soles	100 soles
    Salkantay Treks	100-120 soles	200 soles
    Lares Trek	100-120 soles	200 soles
    Huchuy Qosqo Trek	50 soles	100 soles
    Ausangate	100-120 soles	200 soles

    * These numbers refer to what each member of the Green Machine should receive after the group pools their money. This is just a reference guide.

12. TRAVEL INSURANCE

    To protect your travel investment, we highly recommend the purchase of travel insurance. Getting travel insurance before you leave home is strongly encouraged and very easy. We work with a great agency in the United States, that has helped to make it easy and affordable. What an excellent way to protect yourself while you are visiting Peru.

    If interested in booking through our trusted partner, Ahart, Frinzi & Smith, CLICK HERE.

13. WEATHER

    Of course, the weather is unpredictable. Typically the dry season in Cusco is from April through October, but this does not stop rain from falling in June or the sun from coming out in December so just be prepared. No matter what month you are doing the trek, make sure that you have rain gear that includes a waterproof jacket, pants, poncho, and waterproof gloves. Many people forget about gloves, but being cold and wet makes hiking very unpleasant.

    Also, prepare for four seasons. Several of the treks through the Andes involve various microclimates and you will need to be prepared. Layers are always key since they are easy to adjust to different temperature changes. Be prepared with a warm packable down jacket since the evening will be cold.

    It’s also important to note that the weather can change a listed itinerary. There are times that routes become impassable, and our guides will be forced for your safety to rework your tour.

14. ALTITUDE

    As soon as people book their trip to Peru, specifically Cusco, they start wondering about altitude sickness. The air at high altitudes contains less oxygen than at sea level and forces your body to work harder to get the oxygen it needs. Over several days at high altitude, your body adjusts to the lower amount of oxygen in the air. For this reason, we always recommend spending at least two days in Cusco before beginning any trek in the Andes. Cusco is a marvelous city with lots to do, so if you have more time to acclimate you won´t be bored.

    With altitude sickness, you may first feel like you have the flu or a hangover. You may have a headache, tiredness, loss of appetite, nausea or vomiting, dizziness, trouble sleeping, trouble breathing during exercise. If any of these effects become severe, please contact our office, and we will help you get to a doctor.

    Most of the time, these symptoms will be mild. We always recommend easing into activity slowly, allowing your body to adjust. Drink plenty of fluids such as water or coca tea. Coca tea has been used since ancient times to help prevent altitude sickness. Leaves from the Coca Plant contain alkaloids that help bring oxygen into your blood, helping your body avoid the effects of altitude sickness. Avoid drinking a lot of alcohol and coffee. They will cause you to urinate more often and become dehydrated. Avoid smoking. Smoking makes it more difficult for your body to get oxygen. Avoid sleeping pills. They may cause shallow breathing at night, making it more difficult for your body to absorb oxygen while you sleep.

    Remember the trek to Machu Picchu is not a race. Even those in the best shape will suffer from altitude sickness if they race to the top of the mountain too quickly. Go slow, and it will give your body time to adjust to the elevation.

    Your healthcare provider may prescribe medications, such as acetazolamide and dexamethasone, to help prevent altitude sickness. Start the medicine two days before you get to a high altitude. Continue to take it while you are at high altitude.

    You must remember that this is your holiday and you do not want to stress out about the possibility of getting sick from the mountains. Do everything slowly and drink lots of water, and enjoy the coca tea. If anything does happen and you, unfortunately, get sick, let your guide know right away. Alpaca Expedition guides are trained to help you get through it.

15. GETTING TO CUSCO

    Cusco’s airport (Alejandro Velasco Astete International Airport) currently operates domestic flights only. All international travelers must first arrive in Lima, where you’ll go through immigration and customs. Even if you have a connecting flight to Cusco on the same airline, you’ll need to collect your checked bags in Lima and recheck them for your domestic flight.

    The fastest and most convenient way to reach Cusco is by plane. Major airlines such as LATAM, SKY Airlines, and JetSMART offer multiple daily flights between Lima and Cusco (approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes). Because of Cusco’s high altitude and mountain weather, flight delays or cancellations can occur, so it’s best to plan some buffer time in your itinerary.

    If you prefer to travel overland, comfortable long-distance buses are available. The journey from Lima takes about 20–22 hours, while routes from nearby cities such as Arequipa or Puno take between 6–10 hours. Peruvian bus companies such as Cruz del Sur and Oltursa are known for their safety and comfort, with reclining seats and onboard service.

Packing List

1. ESSENTIALS

   • Passport
   • Valid, STUDENT CARD (if you booked as a student)
   • 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)

2. FOR YOUR DUFFEL

   Porters will carry up to 7 kg of your personal items. This must include your sleeping bag and air matt (if you bring/rent one). From us these two items weigh 3.5 kg.

   • 2-3 wicking t-shirts
   • 2-3 hiking pants
   • 4 sets of undergarments.
   • 4 sets of hiking socks
   • 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 (even if they are ski gloves, take them)
   • Comfortable shoes for camp
   • Walking boots
   • Waterproof jacket/rain poncho
   • Quickdry towel. We provide small ones, you might enjoy something a little larger.
   • Small bottle of soap: we provide warm water each day to clean – might make you feel fresh if you had a little soap.
   • 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

3. TOILETRIES

   • Sunscreen
   • Face moisturizer
   • Bug spray
   • Handsanitizer
   • Wet wipes
   • Toothbrush and paste
   • Toiletpaper
   • Personal medication
   • First aid kit: band aids, moleskin, etc.

4. INSIDE YOUR DAYPACKS

   Daypacks can be any size for hiking, but we always say the smaller, the better. Inside Machu Picchu, bags larger than 25L will not be allowed in. If it is larger, you will need to store it outside 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