trek itinerary
Inca Trail Itinerary: 4-Day Classic Route
Classic Inca Trail day-by-day itinerary — KM 82 to Machu Picchu, Dead Woman's Pass, Wiñay Wayna and sunrise at Sun Gate.
By Lee2 min read
Hiked by Lee
Guided
Last verified
The Classic Inca Trail is 4 hiking days after Cusco acclimatisation — Lee remembers Day 2 over Dead Woman's Pass as the grind that defines the trek.
Also read: Complete Guide · Difficulty · Trek overview
Full trip shape (7–8 days)
| Day | Activity |
|---|---|
| Day 1 | Arrive Cusco — rest |
| Day 2–3 | Acclimatise — light walks, Sacred Valley optional |
| Day 4–7 | Inca Trail trek (4 days) |
| Day 8 | Buffer / travel home |
Optional: Rainbow Mountain between acclimatisation and trek start.
Day 1 — KM 82 to Wayllabamba
| Distance | ~12 km |
| Highlight | Gentle start along the Urubamba |
| Camp | Wayllabamba area |
| Note | Passport checkpoint at KM 82 |
Day 2 — Dead Woman's Pass to Pacaymayo
| Distance | ~16 km |
| Highlight | Warmiwañusca pass ~4,215 m |
| Camp | Pacaymayo |
| Note | Hardest day — start early, steady pace |
Day 3 — Ruins to Wiñay Wayna
| Distance | ~16 km |
| Highlight | Runkurakay, Sayacmarca, Phuyupatamarca |
| Camp | Wiñay Wayna (near last permit camp) |
| Note | Lots of stairs; scenic payoff |
Day 4 — Sun Gate to Machu Picchu
| Distance | ~6 km hiking |
| Highlight | Inti Punku sunrise → Machu Picchu |
| Finish | Guided site tour; train/bus to Cusco or night in Aguas Calientes |
| Note | Pre-dawn start (~3–4 a.m.) |
Related planning
- Navigation — route wayfinding
- Accommodation — Cusco + camp nights
- Packing list — day 4 headlamp essential
Next guide
Inca Trail Cost Guide: Budget in USD
Inca Trail budget breakdown — guided 4-day packages, permits, porter tips, Cusco hotels and Machu Picchu entry.
