Classic Inca Trail & Machu Picchu - 4 Days

Frequently asked questions

• Do I need a permit to hike the Inca Trail?

  Yes. The Inca Trail requires a government-issued permit, which is limited to 500 per day (including guides and porters). Permits often sell out months in advance, so early booking is essential to secure your spot.

• How fit do I need to be?

  Moderate to good physical fitness is required. The trail includes steep ascents, high altitudes (up to 4,215m), and long trekking days. While no technical skills are needed, preparation with hiking and cardio training is highly recommended.

• What altitude will we reach, and is altitude sickness a concern?

  The highest point is Dead Woman’s Pass at 4,215m (13,829ft). Many travelers experience mild symptoms of altitude sickness. Spending a few days in Cusco (3,400m) before the trek helps your body acclimate. Guides monitor your condition and offer support.

• What kind of accommodation is provided?

  Accommodation is tent camping for three nights, set up by the trekking team. Campsites are scenic and remote. Tents, sleeping mats, and meals are included, but you can usually rent sleeping bags or upgrade to thicker mats and pillows if desired.

• Are meals and water provided on the trail?

  Yes. All meals, snacks, and hot drinks during the trek are included and prepared by a dedicated trekking cook team. Clean drinking water is also supplied daily. Dietary requirements, including vegetarian and gluten-free, can be accommodated with advance notice.

• Will I be carrying my own gear?

  You’ll only carry a daypack with essentials (water, snacks, rain jacket, camera). The majority of your gear is carried by porters. There is typically a weight limit of 6–7kg per person for your duffel bag, including sleeping gear.

• Is there Wi-Fi or phone signal on the trail?

  Wi-Fi and mobile signal are extremely limited or unavailable during the trek. This is an opportunity to disconnect and immerse yourself in nature, though some campsites closer to towns may occasionally offer weak signals.

• What should I pack?

  Essentials include: Sturdy, broken-in hiking boots Warm layers (especially for high altitudes) Rain gear (poncho or waterproof jacket) A headlamp or flashlight Reusable water bottle or hydration bladder Sunscreen, insect repellent, personal medications A full packing list is typically provided by the operator before departure.

• Where do I fly to?

  You'll need to get to Cusco, ideally a minimum of 2 days before the trip starts. Most people will fly to Lima and join a connecting flight. Our team can assist or even book flights for you.

• Where do we meet on day 1?

  You'll be picked up from your accommodation in Cusco on the morning of day one and taken to the start point where you'll meet the group and guides. It is vital to arrive before the trip however as a pre-trip briefing is held the evening before the trip stats. We also strongly recommend staying in Cuzco, or somewhere at similar altitude (3000 metres ASL) for at least 2 days prior to acclimatise to the altitude.

• What happens at Machu Picchu?

  After reaching the Sun Gate at sunrise, you’ll enjoy a 2-hour guided tour of Machu Picchu. You then have free time to explore on your own or hike Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain (must be booked well in advance, not included). The day ends with a train and bus transfer back to Cusco.

• How much money will I need?

  Food on the trek is included so this would just be for your souvenirs and and optional soft drinks available on the trek. This can vary greatly, but if you are a fan of souvenirs we'd suggest around £120 just in case. Bear in mind that for tips for your crew would be typically given out on the morning of the last day, before you can access an ATM after the trek in Cuzco. More advice in this is in our PDF.

• Are vegetarian meal options available?

  Yes. We'll make a note when you make your booking and / or before you go but there are always vegetarian options!

• How difficult is the trek?

  The trek isn't technically difficult at all. What makes this a challenge is the altitude you're trekking at. The terrain is not too difficult, there are some steep(ish) bits and steps but the average person could manage with no problems.

• What if I can’t complete the hike?

  If you experience difficulty due to altitude, illness, or injury, guides will arrange safe evacuation or alternative transport to meet the group. While rare, contingency plans are in place and the crew is trained in first aid and emergency response.

• Do I need to bring my own camping equipment?

  The tent and a basic foam sleeping mat will be provided, but you will need to bring a sleeping bag and pillow.

• What additional treks can I do?

  We can add Huayna Picchu on for a local payment of $75USD (this must be requested via your agent in advance, and depends on permit availability). It is possible to add Machu Picchu Mountain also, however this will involve extending your stay by a night in Aguas Caliente. The tour operator does not recommend adding Machu Picchu Mountain onto this itinerary, however, as it is basically retracing your steps back to the Sun Gate. There is also a new trek called Huchuy Picchu which your guide can help organise locally. This is not a long hike. It runs only 1 kilometre via sections made of stone built by the Incas.

• Will I have my own tent?

  Tents are normally shared between two and generously sized, but if you are a solo traveller we can request a solo tent if you would prefer this. It depends on availability but a majority of the time this is free.

• How much is it to rent a sleeping bag?

  Approx USD $20 for the trip in total.

• How much to hire trekking poles?

  USD $15 for the trip in total.

• What time do we get back to Cusco after the trek?

  The last day the group arrives in Cusco around 08:00 pm