THE BEST INCA TRAIL TOURS

Inca Trail Tours to Machu Picchu – A Journey You’ll Never Forget

The Inca Trail to Machu Picchu offers various tour options with different itineraries, distances, and difficulty levels, allowing travelers to choose the one that best suits their preferences and abilities. The Inca trail is a 26-mile trek through the Andes Mountains of Peru, offering an immersive experience.
It weaves through the breathtaking landscapes of the Sacred Valley, and despite its physical demands, with the assistance of a reliable tour agency, hikers of all abilities can complete this unforgettable journey.
The difficulty of the trail varies, with some sections being relatively easy and others more challenging, such as the high altitude passes. The trail can be completed by most people as long as they are fit and well acclimatized.
It is recommended to book your tour well in advance, as only a limited number of permits are issued daily, and the trail is a popular hiking destination.

Inca Trail Tours to Machu Picchu – A Journey You’ll Never Forget

Classic Inca Trail Tours (4D/3N)

The Most Iconic Trek to Machu Picchu

The Classic Inca Trail 4 Days is the most famous trek in South America. And for good reason. It’s a perfect mix of history, adventure, and stunning views. Over four unforgettable days, you’ll walk on ancient stone paths built by the Inca. You’ll cross cloud forests, mountain passes, and Inca ruins. And finally, you’ll step through the Sun Gate and see Machu Picchu the way messengers did centuries ago.

This Inca Trail Trek to Machu Picchu is for travelers who want to experience it all. The culture. The challenge. The magic.

Day 1- Cusco to WayllabambaYour adventure starts in Cusco. From there, we drive through the Sacred Valley Peru, stopping at Ollantaytambo. Then we reach Km 82, the official trailhead. The trek begins gently, following the Urubamba River.

This will be the day you experience a taste of the Andean valleys and small archeological sites. During camp, our trail Chefs will serve awesome cuisine, and we have the heavy gear transported by personal porters. You have an opportunity to concentrate on walking, seeing the sights, and filling in the air.

Day 2 – Conquering Dead Woman’s Pass

Day two is the toughest — but also the most rewarding. You climb to Dead Woman’s Pass (Warmiwañusqa) at 4,215 meters. The trail is steep, but reaching the top is pure joy. From the summit, the views of the Andes are wide and dramatic. Then you descend into the Pacaymayo Valley.

This is also when you realize the beauty of small group Inca Trail tours. With fewer hikers, the journey feels more personal. Our expert local guides are right there with you, sharing encouragement, culture, and stories that bring the trail to life.

Day 3 – Inca Ruins & Cloud Forest Magic

Most trekkers refer to it as the most beautiful day during the trek. Inca ruins such as Runkurakay, Sayacmarca, and beautiful Wiay Wayna ruins will be visited.

The path winds through cloud forests of foggy trees with an abundance of orchids, hummingbirds, and fresh mountain air. At the camping site of Wiñay Wayna, weaker hikers play jokes, rest, and eat under the starry sky. It is the atmosphere of a spell, some history, some nature, some friendship.

Day 4 – The Sun Gate and Machu Picchu

This is what you have been waiting for. You walk the final distance to Intipunku, the Sun Gate, before dawn. As the sun rises, Machu Picchu is found under your feet. It is a moving and memorable view.

Once you have entered the citadel, your guide will show you temples, terraces, and secret corners of Machu Picchu. Afterwards, a comfortable journey back to Cusco by Vistadome train, looking out over the Sacred Valley at the window.

Why Choose Evolution Treks Peru?

Top-Rated Inca Trail Tour Operator, trusted by global travel authorities.
Smooth logistics with hotel-to-hotel service.
Sustainable & Responsible Tourism Peru practices that support local communities.
Delicious meals prepared by professional chefs on the trail.
Personal porters included — you only carry your essentials.

For many travelers, the Classic Inca Trail (4D/3N) is more than a trek. It’s a mix of challenge, culture, and soul — a journey you’ll remember for life.

Short Inca Trail Tours (2D/1N)

The Perfect Choice for Busy Travelers

Not everyone has four full days for the Classic Trail. That’s where the Short Inca Trail Tour (2D/1N) comes in. It gives you the highlights of the trek in just two days — and you still arrive at Machu Picchu through the Inca Trail Sun Gate (Intipunku).

It is an excellent choice for families, first-time travelers, or anyone who wishes to spend more time in Cusco, the Sacred Valley, or on any other tour in Peru. It will still be magical, as it is the trail; it will just take less time.

Day 1 – Km 104 to Wiñay Wayna

The adventure begins with a ride in a train, Ollantaytambo to Km 104. You start trekking off from there. The path heads uphill through a cloud forest, which Peru is known for. You are soon going to get to the beautiful Wiay Wayna ruins.

You go on to the Sun Gate after visiting the terraces and temples. The first sight of Machu Picchu is memorable, never to be forgotten. You are getting into the citadel through a door, as the travelers used to do thousands of years ago, unlike day visitors.

Day 2 – Sunrise at Machu Picchu

The second day will be an early wake-up, and you will go into Machu Picchu with a guided tour. Your tour guide describes the temples, terraces, and secrets of this world wonder. Then you are taken back to Cusco by train with lots of memories.

Why Choose the Short Inca Trail?

Perfect for time-conscious travelers.
Includes both Wiñay Wayna ruins and Machu Picchu.
A real Inca Trail experience without long climbs.
Great for families, beginners, or those with tight schedules.

The 2-Day Inca Trail Trek gives you all the highlights in just two days. It’s simple, accessible, and unforgettable.

5-Day Inca Trail Tour

A Slower, Deeper Journey

Some travelers like to take their time. That’s where the 5-Day Inca Trail Tour shines. It follows the same route as the Classic 4-day trek but spreads it out. Distances are shorter, camps are calmer, and you have more time at each archaeological site.

This is the ideal choice for photographers, history lovers, or anyone who wants to walk at a gentler pace.

Benefits of the 5-Day Itinerary

More time at locations such as Runkurakay, Sayacmarca, and Wiñay Wayna.
Shorter hiking days, more breaks.
Faster pace — more relaxed, more fun.
Better connections with guides, porters, and fellow trekkers.

The 5-Day Inca Trail Trek offers the same magic as the Classic, but with more time to enjoy every step.

Luxury & Private Inca Trail Tours

Trekking with Comfort and Style

Not all hikers want the same kind of trip. Some like rugged camping. Others want a touch of comfort. At Evolution Treks Peru, we offer both. Our Luxury Inca Trail Tours and Private Inca Trail Tours are made for travelers who want adventure with style.

What’s Included

Upgraded tents and camping gear.
Private chefs serving gourmet Andean and international meals.
Massage therapists on select tours.
Dedicated personal porters.
Flexible schedules, tailored to your pace.

A Luxury Inca Trail Hiking Tour lets you explore like everyone else, but with added comfort and exclusivity. For couples, families, or private groups, it’s the perfect choice.

Key Highlights of Inca Trail Tours

The Inca Trail isn’t just about reaching Machu Picchu. The trail itself is full of incredible moments. Here are the highlights every trekker remembers:

Dead Woman (Warmiwañusqa) – The loftiest, coming to 4,215m. A demanding hike, though the scenery is amazing.
Wiñay Wayna Ruins-Amazing terraces and temples that were attached to the mountainside.
Intipunku, The Sun Gate. The tearful first sight of Machu Picchu.
Sacred Valley Views – Snow mountains, green valleys, and hilly terrain.
Exotic Wildlife, orchids, hummingbirds, butterflies, and even spectacled bears now and then.

These moments make the Inca Trail trek one of the best hiking experiences in the world.

Best Time to Visit Machu Picchu & Hike the Inca Trail

Choosing the right season is key. The trail has different moods depending on when you go.

Deciding the time to hike is a significant aspect of your travel. The Inca Trail varies according to the season, and every season gives a varying experience.

From April to October, the dry season is the most popular. The skies have cleared, the trails are drier, and the mountain views are beautiful. It becomes the busiest between May and September, and therefore should be booked 6 to 8 months in advance. The days are warm; however, in the night temperatures can drop to near-freezing. The sunsets and the unchanging weather are the reasons why many travelers state it is the best season.

November to March, which is the wet season, is completely different. It is also greener, the valleys are more dramatic, and there are fewer people around. There is also a lot more rain, though the roads may be muddy, and mornings are usually cloudy. The Inca Trail is closed in the month of February, but not Machu Picchu itself, which is still open via train. It is the best season to go adventurous hiking when one is not bothered by wetness.

A nice combination is the shoulder months of March, April, October, and November. These are the months that are less crowded and have relatively great weather. March and April have recently been touched by the rain, and therefore the landscape is lush and green. October and November are less cool, and there are showers, but fewer people on the trail.

What we recommend: Hiking in the dry season between May and September is ideal because it is the most predictable weather. However, March, April, or October are also good options, but in case you would like to have fewer people and a more personal trail experience.

Our Pick

May to September is the best time to hike. If you prefer fewer crowds, go in March, April, or October.

Inca Trail Permits & Booking Early

Why Booking in Advance Matters

Among the first facts about the Inca Trail, one needs to know that the way to it is strictly limited. The Peruvian government permits only 500 permits per day, and it includes the trekkers, guides, and porters. At this rate of limited availability, the Classic Inca Trail is sometimes sold out 6-8 months in advance- particularly between May and September, which is the popular season of trekking.

It is always advisable to book early to ensure you secure your place. At Evolution Treks Peru, we ensure that the permit is done on your behalf. Once your reservation is in place, we acquire the permits and send you official documentation, making sure your place on the trail and access to Machu Picchu are guaranteed.

Trip Advice on Booking Your Trek

Provided that you travel in high season months, do it at least six months before. In case the dates you want to visit are fully booked, you don’t need to worry since there are other excellent options like the Short Inca Trail or the Lares Trek. Once you have been given a permit, ensure that your passport information is accurate because it should exactly match the information on the reservation. Pre-booking gives you peace of mind knowing that nothing can take away your dream trek.

What’s Included in Our Inca Trail Tours

When you travel with Evolution Treks Peru, you don’t just get a hike—you get a fully supported adventure. Every detail is taken care of, so you can focus on the journey itself.

Expert Bilingual Guides who share the history, culture, and stories of the Andes.
Porters & Support Staff who are treated and paid fairly while carrying equipment for your comfort.
Freshly Prepared Meals combining Andean flavors with international favorites, all cooked on the trail.
High-Quality Camping Gear, including tents, sleeping mats, and dining setups.
All Transportation—trains, buses, and private transfers.
Machu Picchu Entry & Guided Tour with expert explanations of the citadel.
Safety Measures, such as oxygen, first-aid, and radios, are always available.

If you prefer to pack light, we also provide rental gear like sleeping bags and trekking poles.

Sustainability & Responsible Travel

Helping Local Communities

We think each trek must have a positive impact on the people and land that it visits. That is the reason we give our porters good salaries, provide them with the necessary equipment, and use local farmers and suppliers for the provision of food. Each of your meals will assist the families in the Sacred Valley.

Conserving the Trail

The Inca Trail is a natural wonder as well as a cultural feat. We have a very strong philosophy of anything goes and leave no trace, so we are trying to be as minimal as possible in regard to waste levels and environmental impact to ensure that this path will be enjoyed more and more as time goes by and more visitors come to see the beauty of the area. Trekking with us will help to conserve this UNESCO World Heritage site.

Why Evolution Treks Peru?

Recognized Worldwide

No local trekking company in Cusco has been covered or discussed as much as we have. We have been featured in Lonely Planet, National Geographic, Matador Network, TripAdvisor, Fodor Travel, Living in Peru, NowThis, Misadventures Magazine, and New Peruvian over the years. These awards not only show our professionalism, but also the real experiences we provide.

Traveler-Focused Journeys

All the trekkers are family to us. It implies fewer bodies, more relaxed speed, and leaders who not only trailblaze the voyage, they make it come alive through tales, interpretation, and consideration.

Let’s Go Together on the Inca Trail Tour

The Inca Trail to Machu Picchu is not just a hike. It is an opportunity to walk in the footsteps of the past when it comes to living history, Andean culture, and retracing the same steps as the Incas went along. It does not matter what kind of trek you decide to do: a Classical 4-Day trek, the shorter 2-Day adventure, the less strenuous 5-day trek, or a Luxury Private one; the memories will remain with you forever.

FAQs About the Inca Trail

How many days are needed to arrive in Cusco before my trek?

A minimum of two days in advance – enough time to allow your body to acclimatize to the altitude.

How to prepare in Cusco?

Gentle walks, Sacred Valley tours, sleep, and consume lots of water.

What can I do to prevent altitude sickness?

Get to the altitude early, hydrate, and drink coca tea, pace yourself on such passes as Dead Woman Pass.

What is the best season to hike?

Between April and October, when the sky is clearer and views are best, it is the dry season.

Am I required to have special training?

Hiking regularly, cardiovascular activities, and balance training will assist. The paths may be rocky and steep.

What do I take?

A good pair of hiking boots, layered clothes, a rain jacket, a comfortable daypack, sunscreen, and a water bottle that can be refilled.

How is the weather?

April through October will be sunny during the day, cold at night. The rainy season is from November to March, and the trails are muddy, although the scenery is greener.

Are meals diet-adjustable?

Yes. We serve vegetarians, vegans, and travelers without gluten.

How do I deal with being ill on the trail?

Our guides are first-aid trained and will help you there and then. There are always evacuation options.

How do the camps look?

Camps consist of dining tents, sleeping tents, and full porter support- your luggage is hauled for you.

What is next after trekking?

Spend some time in Aguas Calientes or train back to Cusco on the Vistadome train, or continue your journey by visiting Rainbow Mountain or the Sacred Valley.

Suppose there are sold-out permits?

Other hikes, such as Salkantay, Lares, or Inca Trail + Sacred Valley organized tours, are also good.

How long will I be at Machu Picchu?

Typical tours last 23 hours with a professional guide within the citadel.

What is the point of a personal hiking journey?

You can have more service and a more personalized experience, hike at your own pace, and create a custom itinerary with a private tour.

What is the difference between the Short and Classic Inca Trails?

The Short Inca Trail (2 days) is ideal when one has limited time. The Classic (4 days) provides additional ruins and landscape, and the complete experience.

How do I expect guides and porters to be?

Guides transfer culture and history, and keep you safe. Porters transport your luggage, and they make your journey comfortable.

What are the cultural attractions?

The ruins of Wiñay Wayna and the Sun Gate (Intipunku), and indeterminate Inca archaeological sites along the way.

What do I tip staff?

It is customary to tip. Groups will commonly contribute funds: about $10-15 per porter, about $20-25 per chef, and about $40-60 per guide.

Book your permit now, and prepare for one of the greatest adventures in the world.