Inca Trail: Updated Prices 2025.
The 4-day and 2-day Inca Trail routes to Machu Picchu are ancient pathways that wind through the Andes, passing remote mountain landscapes and sacred Inca campsites. This legendary trail has become increasingly popular in recent years, drawing more and more travelers eager to walk in the footsteps of the Incas.
But with growing demand comes tighter regulation. Each year, the Peruvian government introduces new rules to preserve this cultural treasure. Most recently, Circuit 3 has been removed for those arriving at Machu Picchu via the Inca Trail—both the 4-day and 2-day versions.
Now, all tour operators are required to purchase three separate tickets in order to complete the full visit to Machu Picchu, which has also contributed to higher overall costs.
If you’re considering the Inca Trail, be sure to plan ahead and stay informed about the latest entry requirements.
New Government Restrictions Affect Inca Trail Access to Machu Picchu
On June 27, the Government of Peru announced a new restriction that directly impacts travelers doing the 4-day or 2-day Inca Trail to Machu Picchu. As of this date, Circuit 3 is no longer available for those arriving via the Inca Trail. This decision was made to help preserve the Inca Trail as a cultural and natural heritage site and to increase tourism revenue in the region.
However, the change was implemented without prior notice, causing significant concern among travel agencies that had already organized tours and made bookings based on previous regulations. So far, the government has not issued any official response to the complaints raised by the tourism sector.
As a result, some agencies are facing operational challenges and are unable to guarantee full access to Machu Picchu for their clients.
We strongly recommend that travelers planning to hike the Inca Trail make their reservations at least 7 to 9 months in advance. This advance planning is essential to secure permits for the Inca Trail, entrance tickets to Machu Picchu, and access to Circuit 3 — all necessary for a complete guided tour experience.
Inca Trail 4 Days To Machu picchu.
Classic 4-Day Inca Trail to Machu Picchu – Key Information & Details:
Duration:
4 days / 3 nights
🔹 Total Distance:
Approximately 42 km (26 miles)
🔹 Difficulty Level:
Moderate to challenging (good physical condition required)
🔹 Maximum Altitude:
Warmiwañusca (Dead Woman’s Pass): 4,215 m / 13,828 ft
🔹 Minimum Altitude:
Machu Picchu: 2,430 m / 7,972 ft
🔹 Starting Point:
Km 82 (Piscacucho), near Ollantaytambo
🔹 Ending Point:
Sun Gate (Inti Punku) – Direct entrance to Machu Picchu
🔹 Main Highlights Along the Trail:
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Llactapata
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Runkurakay
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Sayacmarca
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Phuyupatamarca
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Wiñay Wayna
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Inti Punku (Sun Gate)
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Machu Picchu
🔹 Included:
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Certified professional guide
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Porters for group equipment
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Cook and all meals during the trek
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Inca Trail permit and Machu Picchu entrance ticket
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Designated campsites
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Bus from Machu Picchu to Aguas Calientes
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Return train to Cusco or private transportation
🔹 Not Included:
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Sleeping bag (rental available)
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Trekking poles (optional)
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First breakfast and final lunch
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Travel insurance (recommended)
🔹 Important Requirements:
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Book 6 to 9 months in advance (limited spaces per day)
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Valid passport (must match the one used at booking)
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Good physical condition and prior altitude acclimatization
Inca Trail Classic: Authentic Journeys, Rooted in the Andes
At Inca Trail Classic, we are a fully licensed travel agency authorized to operate on the Inca Trail and at Machu Picchu. We hold all the official permits required by the Peruvian government to provide a safe, legal, and high-quality trekking experience.
What truly sets us apart is our dedication to authenticity. Our local guides, proud ambassadors of Andean culture, are the backbone of our company. They don’t just lead you along ancient trails—they bring the Inca legacy to life through their deep knowledge, traditions, and heartfelt connection to the mountains.
When you choose Inca Trail Classic, you’re choosing to walk with the soul of the Andes.
