How to Plan Your 4-Day Inca Trail Guided Trek to Machu Picchu in Cusco

If you’re planning a trip to Cusco, you definitely don’t want to miss out on the opportunity to hike the world-famous Inca Trail to Machu Picchu. This four-day guided trek offers breathtaking views of the Andes mountains, magical cloud forests, and steep valleys. Plus, you’ll get to camp at remote mountain sites and enjoy amazing sunsets along the way. In this post, we’ll give you all the information you need to know to plan your perfect Inca Trail experience.

Experience

Hiking the Inca Trail isn’t easy, but it’s definitely worth it. The four-day trek takes you through stunning mountain landscapes, past ancient Inca ruins and settlements, and finally to the breathtaking Machu Picchu. Along the way, you’ll be accompanied by expert local guides, porters, and chefs. They’ll take care of all the practical details of the trek, leaving you free to focus on the incredible experience of walking in the footsteps of the Incas.

Highlights

There are so many highlights to this incredible trek, it’s hard to know where to begin. Here are just a few of the unforgettable experiences you can look forward to:

• Walk the ancient footpath of the Incas high in the Andes mountains
• Admire dramatic peaks, magical cloud forest, and steep valleys
• Camp at remote mountain sites and enjoy amazing sunsets
• Trek with a group of expert local guides, porters, and chefs
• Explore the magnificent remains of the city of Machu Picchu

Full Description

At the start of the tour, you’ll be picked up from your hotel in Cusco and driven to the starting point of the trek. Over the course of the next four days, you’ll hike through the Andes mountains, passing through cloud forests and past dramatic peaks, before finally reaching Machu Picchu on the fourth day. The tour includes all your meals and camping equipment, and you’ll be accompanied by knowledgeable local guides and porters who will carry your gear and set up camp for you each night.

Here’s a breakdown of what’s included in the tour:

• Hotel pickup and drop-off
• 4 breakfasts
• 3 lunches
• 3 dinners
• Trekking guide
• Personal porter
• Tents
• Entrance fees and permits
• Train ticket for final day
• Bus ticket for final day
• Portable chemical toilet
• First aid kit, oxygen tank, and satellite phone
• Drinking water
• Sleeping bag (can be rented for an additional fee)
• Trekking poles (can be rented for an additional fee)
• Air mattress (can be rented for an additional fee)
• Huayna Picchu climb (book in advance)

Tips

Here are a few tips to help you make the most of your Inca Trail experience:

• It’s important to be in good physical condition before you embark on the trek. Make sure to do plenty of hiking and other cardio exercises in the weeks leading up to your trip.
• Pack light. You’ll be carrying your own daypack, so make sure to only bring the essentials.
• Be prepared for all types of weather. The climate in the Andes can be unpredictable, so make sure to bring both warm and cool weather clothing.
• Bring plenty of water to stay hydrated, and use a water purification system or bring iodine tablets to purify any water you find along the trail.
• Take your time and enjoy the journey. The Inca Trail is an incredible experience, so make sure to savor every moment.

Book the Tour

Ready to book the tour? You can book it online at GetYourGuide. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to experience one of the world’s most incredible hikes.

Frequently Asked Questions About Cusco

Cusco, a magnificent city in Peru, is an incredible tourist destination that is renowned for its rich history, fascinating architecture, and breathtaking landscapes. This ancient city was once the capital of the Inca Empire and is home to numerous historical landmarks, including the iconic Machu Picchu.

If you’re planning a trip to Cusco, there are undoubtedly many questions you have about the city. In this post, we’ll address some of the most frequently asked questions about Cusco to help you plan an unforgettable trip.

1. When is the Best Time to Visit Cusco?

Cusco is a year-round destination, but the best time to visit depends on your preferences. If you want to avoid the crowds, the low season (November – March) is the best time to visit. The weather is mild, and the rain is infrequent. The high season (April – October) has better weather, but it’s also crowded and more expensive.

2. What is the Altitude of Cusco, and How to Deal with Altitude Sickness?

Cusco is located at an elevation of 3,399 meters (11,152 ft) above sea level. This high altitude can cause altitude sickness, which can be dangerous in severe cases. To prevent altitude sickness, it’s essential to stay hydrated and give your body time to acclimate to the altitude. It’s also advisable to avoid alcohol, tobacco, and heavy meals for the first few days.

3. What are the must-visit Attractions in Cusco?

Cusco is home to numerous attractions that are worth visiting, including Machu Picchu, the Sacred Valley, Sacsayhuaman, the Temple of the Sun, and the Cusco Cathedral, among others.

4. What is the Currency Used in Cusco?

The official currency used in Cusco and Peru is the sol (PEN). It’s advisable to exchange currency at authorized currency exchange offices or withdraw money from ATMs to get the best exchange rates.

5. What are the Local Customs and Traditions in Cusco?

Cusco has a rich cultural heritage, and the locals are proud of their customs and traditions. Visitors to Cusco are advised to dress modestly, ask for permission before taking photos of people, and respect the locals’ customs and traditions.

6. How Safe is Cusco for Travelers?

Cusco is generally a safe city for travelers, but it’s essential to take precautions like in any city. It’s advisable to keep valuable items like passports, wallets, and cameras in a secure place and avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar areas.

7. What is the Food like in Cusco?

Cusco is renowned for its diverse cuisine, which blends traditional ingredients and cooking techniques with modern culinary trends. Some of the must-try dishes in Cusco include ceviche, lomo saltado, pisco sour, and chicha morada. Visitors to Cusco are advised to drink bottled water and eat at reputable restaurants to avoid foodborne illnesses.

8. How to Get Around Cusco?

Cusco has an extensive public transportation network, including buses and taxis. It’s advisable to use registered taxis that have their identification numbers and rates posted. Walking is also a great way to explore the city, but it’s crucial to wear comfortable shoes and stay hydrated.

Conclusion

Cusco is an exciting tourist destination with numerous attractions, rich cultural heritage, and diverse cuisine. By considering these frequently asked questions about Cusco, you’ll be better prepared to plan your trip and have an unforgettable experience.