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Walk the classic 4-day Inca Trail from Km 82 to Machu Picchu, summiting Dead Woman’s Pass and visiting multiple Inca sites en route. This guided, portered trek blends high-altitude challenge with expert logistical support and camping comfort.
Walk the classic 4-day Inca Trail from Km 82 to Machu Picchu, summiting Dead Woman’s Pass and visiting multiple Inca sites en route. This guided, portered trek blends high-altitude challenge with expert logistical support and camping comfort.
You step out before dawn in Cusco, bundled against the thin air as a minibus threads the high valley toward Km 82. Steam from thermoses mixes with the first light; porters shoulder duffles and the trail narrows into ancient stonework where footsteps echo the Incas'. Over four days you cover roughly 26 miles (about 43 km), climbing to Dead Woman’s Pass at 4,215 m (13,829 ft) and easing into cloud forest descents that smell of wet earth and orchids.
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Operated by AB Expeditions · Cusco, Cusco
You step out before dawn in Cusco, bundled against the thin air as a minibus threads the high valley toward Km 82. Steam from thermoses mixes with the first light; porters shoulder duffles and the trail narrows into ancient stonework where footsteps echo the Incas'. Over four days you cover roughly 26 miles (about 43 km), climbing to Dead Woman’s Pass at 4,215 m (13,829 ft) and easing into cloud forest descents that smell of wet earth and orchids.
This route follows engineering and ritual routes carved into Andean geology — volcanic bedrock, glacial cirques, and terraces that held crops centuries ago. Guides explain Inca construction, perform traditional offerings at high passes, and point out ruins like Llactapata, Runkuraqay, Intipata and Wiñaywayna. The culture here remains alive: Quechua-speaking communities, scattered shepherds, and llamas that regard you with calm curiosity. Night skies over Chaquicocha can feel immense; the mountains push back the stars.
Practically, the trek is challenging: expect steep ascents of 800–1,000 m in a single day, uneven stone steps, and variable weather — rain one hour, sun the next. The operator provides 3-season tents, foam mattresses, a professional chef, portable toilets, satellite communication, and porter service (7 kg duffle limit). Acclimatize 48–72 hours in Cusco, layer for wind and cold, bring waterproof footwear and a reliable daypack with rain cover. Plan your pace: rest on descents, hydrate frequently, and follow guide briefings — the Sun Gate sunrise into Machu Picchu is the payoff, earned step by step.
This classic itinerary covers approximately 26 miles (43 km) over four days with daily stages of 3–6 hours of hiking.
Each trekker is allowed one duffle of up to 7 kg (≈14 lb) carried by porters; daypacks carry essentials during hikes.
Previous high-altitude hiking is strongly recommended; acclimatize in Cusco and disclose medical conditions during booking.
Yes — the tour includes the Inca Trail permit and Machu Picchu Circuit 1 entrance, plus train ticket back to Ollantaytambo.
AB Expeditions operates guided outdoor trips and adventures with an emphasis on safety, stewardship, and memorable experiences.
You step out before dawn in Cusco, bundled against the thin air as a minibus threads the high valley toward Km 82. Steam from thermoses mixes with the first light; porters shoulder duffles and the trail narrows into ancient stonework where footsteps echo the Incas'. Over four days you cover roughly 26 miles (about 43 km), climbing to Dead Woman’s Pass at 4,215 m (13,829 ft) and easing into cloud forest descents that smell of wet earth and orchids.
You step out before dawn in Cusco, bundled against the thin air as a minibus threads the high valley toward Km 82. Steam from thermoses mixes with the first light; porters shoulder duffles and the trail narrows into ancient stonework where footsteps echo the Incas'. Over four days you cover roughly 26 miles (about 43 km), climbing to Dead Woman’s Pass at 4,215 m (13,829 ft) and easing into cloud forest descents that smell of wet earth and orchids.
This route follows engineering and ritual routes carved into Andean geology — volcanic bedrock, glacial cirques, and terraces that held crops centuries ago. Guides explain Inca construction, perform traditional offerings at high passes, and point out ruins like Llactapata, Runkuraqay, Intipata and Wiñaywayna. The culture here remains alive: Quechua-speaking communities, scattered shepherds, and llamas that regard you with calm curiosity. Night skies over Chaquicocha can feel immense; the mountains push back the stars.
Practically, the trek is challenging: expect steep ascents of 800–1,000 m in a single day, uneven stone steps, and variable weather — rain one hour, sun the next. The operator provides 3-season tents, foam mattresses, a professional chef, portable toilets, satellite communication, and porter service (7 kg duffle limit). Acclimatize 48–72 hours in Cusco, layer for wind and cold, bring waterproof footwear and a reliable daypack with rain cover. Plan your pace: rest on descents, hydrate frequently, and follow guide briefings — the Sun Gate sunrise into Machu Picchu is the payoff, earned step by step.