Alternative Inca Trail to Machu Picchu 4D/3N

Alternative Inca Trail to Machu Picchu 4D/3N

Cusco

Cusco, Peru

Day 1
Machu Picchu

Machu Picchu, Peru

Days 3-4

Map
1 / 26
13 Views
4 Days From

$680

This tour is no longer available, please see similar tours below or send an enquiry

Tour Overview

Embark on a captivating 4-day adventure with the Alternative Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, a journey that takes you through the breathtaking mountains surrounding Cusco. This trek follows an ancient Inca path, offering stunning views of Cusco, visits to local communities, and the chance to hike alongside llamas and alpacas. Explore remarkable archaeological sites like Huchuy Qosqo, Sacred Valley, and Ollantaytambo, culminating in a magical arrival at Machu Picchu through the Sungate at sunset. Experience the rich history of the trail once used by the last Inca King, and support social projects in Andean villages. Enjoy comfortable camping, a night in a 3-star hotel, and savor meals made with local organic ingredients. Conclude your journey with a scenic train ride back to Cusco, making this trek a perfect blend of adventure, culture, and history. ...more ...less

Highlights

  • Alternative Inca Trail is a 4-day trek to Machu Picchu will take you on a hike across the Mountains nearby Cusco city, following an ancient Inca Trail that connects with the Sacred Valley, follows the Urubamba River, join the Last section of the Classic Inca Trail, and Arrive at Machu Picchu through the Sungate right before the sunset ...more ...less

  • Along the way, you will have an amazing view of Cusco from the Mountain, visit local communities, hiking with Llamas and alpacas, visit beautiful archaeological sites such as Huchuy Qosqo, Sacred Valley, Ollantaytambo, Wiñaywuayna, and Machu Picchu

  • This trail was used by the Last Inca King who moved his rebel army in 1536 from Cusco to the Last Capital of Incas (Vilcabamba) during the XVI century

  • Highlights of the Alternative Inca Trail Explore the mountains around CuscoFollow the ancient Inca Trail from Cusco to Machu PicchuArrive hiking to the Sacred Valley from CuscoRide the panoramic trains on the way back (Vistadome or 360°)Support social projects in the Andean Villages

Itinerary

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Day 1: Cusco – Tambomachay – Pukamarca

Location: Cusco

Accommodation Name: Camping under the stars

Meals Included: Lunch, Dinner


 After being collected from Your hotel in Cusco at 7:00 am, drive for 20 minutes towards the archaeological site of Tambomachay (3812 m /12506 Ft), a beautiful archeological site located just outside of Cusco. Here, You’ll start the expedition to the legendary lost city of the Incas Machu Picchu. The first part is a gentle 4- hours climb, passing through local communities, beautiful mountain lakes, large grassland where llamas and alpacas feed. This area is home to a wide variety of birds including Wallatas (love birds), partridges and lapwings, all of which are regularly spotted throughout the day. Lunch is at Koricocha lake (4049 m / 13284 ft). After enjoying the fresh meals prepared by your trekking chef, continue 3 more hours up and down to the campsite is located at the small Andean village of Pukamarca (3800m/12,467ft). This is a good opportunity to understand their lifestyle, interact with local children, and visit the houses to see how they live and what they have. You can take some gifts if you like.



  • Campsite Altitude: 3800m/12,467ft

  • Distance: 15 km/9.3 miles

  • Duration: 7 hours

  • Meals: Snacks, lunch, dinner

  • Accommodation: Camping under the stars

  • Difficulty: moderate


Day 2: Pukamarca – Huchuy Qosqo – Ollantaytambo

Location: Huchuy Qosqo

Accommodation Name: Casa Blanca or Similar

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner


 Enjoy the Local Village early in the morning with a cup of coffee while you enjoy the first rays of the sun, after breakfast, we will start a gradual up and down to Huchuy Qosqo 3600m (1118127ft) a spectacular ancient city on top of the Sacred Valley, Along the way you pass refreshing streams, beautiful canyons, and breathtaking views. After exploring the Inca Site, we will continue for 15. hours into the Sacred Valley, Our chef will be waiting with a special Lunch that local love, PACHAMANCA,


The last part of the will be traveling by van along the Sacred Valley until we arrive in Ollantaytambo where we will check-in in a hotel.



  • Distance: 8 km/5 miles

  • Duration of hike: 5 hours hike

  • Meals: breakfast, lunch, dinner

  • Accommodation: Casa Blanca or Similar

  • Difficulty: easy


Day 3: Ollantaytambo - Km 104 - Sungate - Machu Picchu

Location: Machu Picchu

Accommodation Name: Killa INN or similar

Meals Included: Lunch, Dinner


 Wake up early in your hotel, breakfast, and then take the train from Ollantaytambo to Km 104, to begin the Inca Trail. Once you pass the checkpoint you will start the final and most impressive stretch of the full Inca Trail. You will visit amazing Inca Sites, see a vast variety of flora and fauna, and finally arrive at Machu Picchu through the Sun Gate.


This trek allows you to visit the most impressive sites inside the Inca Trail and you will have the chance to arrive twice to Machu Picchu, if you plan properly the times, you can arrive after 4:00 pm to Machu Picchu and you will find the place almost empty since everybody starts leaving the citadel early. After enjoying a full day in the Inca trail and Machu Picchu, You will take the bus down to Aguas Calientes, check-in, dinner in a local restaurant and sleep early for the next day.



  • Highest altitude: 2700m / 8858ft

  • Distance: 15km, 7 hours

  • Meals: Lunch, snacks, and dinner

  • Accommodation: Killa INN or similar

  • Difficulty: Moderate


Day 4: Discover Machu Picchu – Return To Cusco

Location: Machu Picchu

Meals Included: Breakfast


 The final day, you will wake up in your hotel and have an early breakfast and take the first buses up to Machu Picchu. If the weather is good you will be able to witness the sunrise over Machu Picchu, which is truly an unforgettable experience. You will have the chance to go to the Inca Bridge or spend some time in the upper part of Machu Picchu before starting the tour.


The guided tour takes about 2 to 23 hours, where your tour guide will show you the best of Machu Picchu. Later you will have time to explore by yourself or either climb Huayna Picchu or Montaña, These tickets need to be booked in advance. After you are done with Machu Picchu, you will take the bus down to Aguas Calientes for lunch ( not included)  and then take the Panoramic train and bus back to Cusco. The TreXperience Team will meet you off the train and return you safely to your hotel.



  • Guided Tour: 2 – 3 hours

  • Meals: Breakfast (hotel)

  • Accommodation: not included

  • Difficulty: Easy


What's Included

  • Safety Briefing

    A safety briefing is provided the day before the tour at 6:00 pm in our office.

  • Hotel Pick-up

    Pick up from your hotel in the morning of the tour is included.

  • Transportation

    All transportation during the duration of the trek is included.

  • Duffle Bag

    A duffle bag up to 7 kilos for your personal stuff to be carried by porters is provided.

  • Professional Guides

    Professional highly trained mountain tour guides are included.

  • Chefs and Porters

    Experience happy chefs and porters are part of the trek.

  • Camping Equipment

    3 nights camping in the mountains with comfortable equipment is included.

  • Hotel Accommodation

    1 night 3-star hotel in Agua Calientes is included.

  • Meals

    All meals during the trek with local organic ingredients are included, except the last lunch.

  • Entrance Tickets

    Entrance ticket to Inca Trail and Machu Picchu is included.

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What's Not Included

  • Sleeping Equipment

    Sleeping bags, air mattress, or trekking poles are not included.

  • Last Day Lunch

    Lunch on the last day is not included.

  • Huayna Picchu or Montaña Entrances

    Entrance tickets to Huayna Picchu or Montaña are not included.

  • Tips

    Tips for porters, chef, and guides are not included.

Know Before You Go

  • Infant Seats Available
  • Passport Required

Requirements

  •  Original PassportRain gair, rain Poncho
  • Sun Protection
  • Warm and light clothes
  • Personal medication
  • Extra snacks
  • Water container for 2 litters
  • Extra Money

Mode of Transport

Enjoy seamless transportation throughout your trek, including hotel pick-up, all necessary transfers, and a panoramic exclusive train ride back to Cusco, ensuring a comfortable and scenic journey.

Accommodation

Experience a blend of adventure and comfort with 3 nights of camping in the mountains using comfortable equipment, followed by a night in a 3-star hotel in Aguas Calientes, ensuring a restful end to your trek.

Check out our Q&As

  • What kind of views can I expect during the trek?

    During the trek, you will have amazing views of Cusco from the mountains, beautiful mountain lakes, large grasslands where llamas and alpacas feed, and a wide variety of birds. You will also pass through refreshing streams, beautiful canyons, and breathtaking views of the Sacred Valley. ...more ...less

  • Will I have the opportunity to interact with local communities?

    Yes, on the first day of the trek, you will pass through local communities and have the opportunity to understand their lifestyle, interact with local children, and visit their houses.

  • What is the significance of the trail used in this trek?

    The trail used in this trek was historically significant as it was used by the last Inca King who moved his rebel army in 1536 from Cusco to the last capital of the Incas, Vilcabamba, during the XVI century.

  • What is the experience like at Machu Picchu?

    You will arrive at Machu Picchu through the Sun Gate, which offers a stunning view, especially if you arrive after 4:00 pm when the site is less crowded. On the final day, you can witness the sunrise over Machu Picchu and have a guided tour of the site, with time to explore on your own or climb Huayna Picchu or Montaña if you have pre-booked tickets. ...more ...less

  • What kind of meals are provided during the trek?

    All meals during the trek are provided, prepared with local organic ingredients, except for the last lunch. You will enjoy meals such as snacks, lunch, and dinner, with a special local dish called Pachamanca on the second day.

  • When is the best time to travel to Cusco?

    The best time to visit Cusco is during the dry season, which runs from May to September. The weather is perfect for trekking and exploring the city, with clear skies and little chance of rain. This is also the peak travel season, so it can be busier. If you prefer fewer crowds and don’t mind a little rain, the shoulder seasons (April and October) can also be great times to visit.

  • When do you have to arrive in Cusco?

    It’s a good idea to arrive in Cusco at least 2 to 3 days before your trek starts. This gives your body time to adjust to the high altitude, which is crucial since Cusco sits pretty high up at 11,152 feet (3,400 meters). The extra days also give you time to explore the city and its surroundings before your big adventure begins.

  • How to prevent altitude sickness?

    Altitude sickness is pretty common when you head to places like Cusco, so it’s smart to be prepared. Here are a few things you can do to avoid or lessen it: - Arrive early: Give yourself a couple of days to acclimate. - Drink plenty of water: Staying hydrated is key. - Try coca tea: Locals swear by it. It's made from coca leaves and can help with altitude adjustment. - Avoid heavy meals and alcohol: These can make it harder for your body to adjust. - Take it easy: Don’t push yourself too hard on the first day or two. - Medication: Talk to your doctor about altitude sickness pills like Diamox if you're worried. If you start feeling dizzy, tired, or get a headache, slow down, rest, and stay hydrated.

  • Which is better, Inca Trail or Salkantay Trek?

    Both treks offer incredible experiences, but they’re different in key ways: - The Inca Trail is all about history, as you’ll walk the same paths the Incas did and pass through several archaeological sites. It’s a shorter trek but highly regulated, with limited permits. - The Salkantay Trek is a bit more off the beaten path. It’s longer and tougher but offers stunning scenery, including glaciers and cloud forests. There are fewer crowds, and no permit is required. If you want the classic Machu Picchu experience, go for the Inca Trail. If you're looking for a more rugged adventure, Salkantay might be the better choice.

  • How many people are allowed in each group?

    The size of each group on the Inca Trail is typically limited to 16 people. This ensures a more personalized experience and allows for easier management on the narrow paths of the trail. TreXperience, like most tour operators, adheres to this limit to comply with government regulations and to preserve the environment along the trail.

Reviews of this operator

Racquel Enad (Google Reviewer)  

The Short Inca Trail (2D/1N)...

29-Nov-2024

The Short Inca Trail (2D/1N) tour exceeded my expectations. TreXperience had great organization/coordination and handled all the logistics of the many pieces involved with visiting Machu Picchu. I felt safe knowing that they handled and thought of everything. The hike was amazing. JJ and Pepe took care of us, managing everyone’s different paces and needs, and teaching us about the Incan hike and culture. They are clearly experts in hiking and all things Machu Picchu. On top of that, they are kind, fun, and professional in their work. Unforgettable experience. Thank you to JJ, Pepe, and the team! Highly recommend. ...more ...less

Catalin Radoiu (Google Reviewer)  

The 4-day Inca Trail was...

15-Apr-2024

The 4-day Inca Trail was an incredible journey, filled with breathtaking views and delicious food. Our guides, Pepe and Maribel, were exceptional. They not only led us safely through the trail but also shared their knowledge, making the trek a learning experience. Their care and attention to everyone's needs made the journey even more enjoyable. The entire experience was worth every step, and I highly recommend it to anyone looking for an unforgettable adventure. ...more ...less

Antoine Gasté (Google Reviewer)  

We did the Lares Trek...

09-May-2024

We did the Lares Trek to Macchu Picchu 4 days with TreXperience and it was an amazing experience. During the hike the emphasize was given on enjoying the time with no time pressure on reaching a given point, which allowed us to enjoy the views. Manolo also took the time to tell us a lot about the history of Peru and of the trek we walked specifically. The food was plentiful and awesome for every meal, thanks again Orlando! The preparation was smooth and simple. Thanks to the TreXperience team! ...more ...less

Simon Jensen (Google Reviewer)  

10/10. Pepe and Johny was...

27-Aug-2024

10/10. Pepe and Johny was super professional. Well planned and fun trip! We did the 2 day Inca trail. The trek is easy, but with some steep sections. The views are amazing!

Avi Lazar (Google Reviewer)  

We came to hike the...

14-Mar-2024

We came to hike the Inca trail and it was an amazing experience. It is a very difficult trip, but well worth it. For our trip we had Carlos as our guide. He is a fantastic guy. Polite and helpful. He has a lot of knowledge of the history and culture and his animated explanations made it more exciting. Our chef Alejandro cooked amazing meals. During the trip, while chatting with Carlos, we mentioned we just got married. On our last night they made us home-made chocolate cake to celebrate. How awesome is that, that 1) they could make a cake while camping and 2) he had the ingredients. We never mentioned our marriage when we booked the trip. The food was great and had a lot of variety. They also accommodate special needs (vegetarian, pescatarian, etc) Finally, the porters were amazing. The head porter, Jesus, runs a tight ship and everything is ready to go. Our tents are ready for us, food is timed to come out when we arrive. The trip was hard, but an amazing experience. A few tips 1) when they suggest to get the hiking poles, GET the hiking poles. Just do it. 2) most of this trip are stone "stairs". Some of these "stairs" can be 30 inches high. For sure they are absolutely and not even remotely close to being uniform. 3) make sure to have 100% waterproof gear (goretex), altitude medicine (before you arrive to Cusco), and layers. ...more ...less

I-am Gonzo (Google Reviewer)  

What can I say, GREAT...

11-Oct-2023

What can I say, GREAT COMPANY! We booked this 4 day hike to Machu Picchu, glad we did. This company was great all the way around. We had all information in advance, picked us up at our hotel the morning off, porters/sherpas carried all the main gear, you just had to carry your daily pack. This was tent camping. Food was absolutely amazing for being carried up the mountains and prepared in a tent. The chef made great food with vegetarian options, as long as he’s made aware before heading out. The porters, man, these were hard working guys and gals. They made the hike look easy, and trust me, it was anything but easy! The hiking guides were great and knowledgeable. They provided stories at each stop and ruins along the way. If you’re looking for something easy, this isn’t it. If you want to challenge yourself, learn some history, view amazing sites that only those hiking will see, and make some friends along the way…this is for you. The views were just incredible! They provide the tents, sleeping matts, sleeping bags, and hiking poles. However, I recommend you bring your own bag. These bags get used by many people and have a funky smell. Bring change and cash on the hike. You will find people in small towns selling drinks, gloves, caps, and many things you probably didn’t think of in advance. The coins are needed for the bathrooms along the route. Most places charged $1 sol to use the facility. They don’t have much change so bring coins for that. PS: Bring extra money to tip the porters/sherpas well. You’ve never seen harder working people in your life! I was amazed. ...more ...less

Jessica Yang (Google Reviewer)  

I can begin to even...

22-Mar-2024

I can begin to even describe what a wonderful and life changing experience the 4 day Inca Trail with Trexperience was. The views were beyond anything I could have imagined, but what really made this experience the best of my life were our tour guides Amadeo and Plinio, along with the entire amazing team of porters, chef, and assistant chef. Amadeo's in depth archaeological knowledge and first0hand experience working on the restoring parts of the Inca Trail gave us all so much insight into the ancient ruins and history of Inka culture. Throughout these 4 days, I met such an amazing group of people and formed lifelong friendships, and the fun lighthearted and special dynamic that Amadeo and Plinio helped create made this possible. I am so grateful to Trexperience and everyone in our group who made this possible, you truly cannot get a better team and guide to lead you through this amazing journey that feels like you're flying through the clouds. ...more ...less

Christoph Kaml (Google Reviewer)  

We did a 3 days...

05-Jan-2025

We did a 3 days hike with our family, 4 adults, very well guided by Filio and taken care of his team. We hiked to Humantay lake, Salkantay pass, and finally ended with a visit to Machu Picchu. The cook Bertram made delicious meals for us and Filio shared a lot of information about the region and the Peruvian culture and history. He put Peru into a different light for us. Everyone should make sure he is well informed about fitness required and all other relevant aspects of such a trip to avoid misunderstandings. I recommend to Filio to keep learning English, much more of your interesting knowledge can be shared. Definitely recommend such a trip for any visitor to Peru ready for an adventure creating memories for a lifetime! ...more ...less

Brendan Kent (Google Reviewer)  

Myself and a mate absolutely...

05-Aug-2023

Myself and a mate absolutely loved our 6-day Salcantay/Inka Trail combo for his 40th birthday! Led by super puma & experienced tour guide Leo and the team assisted us in having us a seamless trip from booking enquiry through to dropping us back at our accomodation. We can’t recommend Trexperience more highly for your adventure tour operator based in Cuzco. Our trip commenced with a hotel pickup by private transport to the start of our trek. From there we were supported by horseman Mario who carried our gear, food and kitchen equipment. Masterchefs Augusto & Esteban creatively entertained our tastebuds for breakfast, lunch & dinner in the comfort of a shared kitchen-dining tent. The 3 course meals were perfectly paired to the temperature and that of our energy requirements ahead. Most importantly cleanliness and hygene was of a high standard & our tummies were in tip top shape. The salsa garnish is a must try while in Peru, although this may result in additional exhaust emissions! Tour guide, Leo was an Inca race champion back in the day with over 1000 Inca trail runs and is a walking encyclopedia on the Inca history, flora and fauna of which you will pass a great variety. Leo’s experience enabled us to make the most of the trip, see more, rest a little at times & drink Momma’s beer by optimising the schedule to suit our interests & the weather when the “super kangaroos” were ahead of schedule. Our first stop to Humantay Lake was serene and a good walm up for the following days. Camp sites were in some amazing places, a highlight was overlooking the snow capped Salcantay mountain and witnesssing a couple of avalanches from a more than safe distance but could still hear and feel the power of the event. This camp site was at an altitude of about 15,000 feet and we woke to a powdering of snow in the morning. The treks in the whole area are rocky and at times steep and my Keen ankle boots looked after my ankles and feet. Walking poles are an option which we would recommend taking up to assist with uphill and downhill step downs. Upon entering the Inca trail horses are forbidden so we were joined by a fantastic porter crew consisting of Cerilo, Santos, Ruben, Fortunato, Marcelino, Porfedio. We had a great time with our chefs and porters and if you include them in your trip it will really make the experience better. So dont be snobby - we shared plenty of laughs, music, food and stories with them sometimes through translation as we didnt speak fluent Espanol. Along the way there are the occasional stall to buy drinks or if things workout you may get to stay in a village and try some locally made Inca beer of which we helped make the night before. Tipping is optional but don’t be a tight arse - the support team work in exceptionally hard conditions, carry up to 25kgs on their backs compared to your 6kgs if that and run a fantastic operation. Tipping was by separate envelope to ensure funds go directly to the chef, porters & to guide. On weight keep your packing to a minimum - spare jocks and socks for each day & you’ll get a number of days out of pants and shirts, a couple of sets thermals/compression gear, warm jacket, rain jacket - follow the packing instructions provided and you’ll be fine. I bought a garmin watch which lasted 2 days GPS tracking our route, heart rate & O2 saturation & charged with a powerbank. There are some opportunities for showers but most are cold and most camps are next to a crystal clear creek to ice bath your legs in and make things easier for crew. Altitude sickness wasnt an issue although we could feel the effects of the thin air. A mate put us onto Diamox tablets(sourced through your doctor) which assisted with this, otherwise just taking it easier and focussing on solid breathing helped get us through without having additional things to deal with. Its an incredible trip which you will have a great time if you do a little homework and preparation. If an 80 year old can do it or a guy with a kevlar knee im sure you can do it too! Thank you for a once in a lifetime experience, Trexperience 😘 ...more ...less

Merel van de Wiel (Google Reviewer)  

We enjoyed the Inca trail...

09-Oct-2024

We enjoyed the Inca trail with TreXperience so much! The guide Gary was just amazing and we had the best trip because of him. He was very knowledgeable and his English is very good. He explained a lot about the Inca sites, nature and Machu Picchu. Also, he made so many pictures for us to remember our trip! He made us all feel comfortable and explained really well what was going to happen along the way. He made our group feel like a family and he was just a lot of fun to be around. If we did another tour with TreXperience we would definitely ask for him to be our guide again :) Also: the food. It was sooo good, we read a lot of positive things about the food but it was even better than expected. The chef Balbino was amazing. We had a lot of delicious Peruvian dishes and also pizza and a cake. We chose this company because they treat their porters well and we could clearly see it: their gear looked very good. They were very kind to us, everything was really well organised and we appreciated the private toilet that was setup every day during lunch and at camp. The camping gear was really comfortable too, we were happy we rented the air matresses and sleeping bags. It definitely made our trip more enjoyable. All in all I would highly recommend doing the Inca trail with TreXperience. ...more ...less

1 Select your preferred date

Wednesday - Saturday

Feb 26, 2025 - Mar 01, 2025
$680 (USD)

Thursday - Sunday

Feb 27, 2025 - Mar 02, 2025
$680 (USD)

Friday - Monday

Feb 28, 2025 - Mar 03, 2025
$680 (USD)

Book with Confidence

  • Low Deposit

    TreXperience requires a minimum deposit of 140 USD per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 2 days before departure.

  • Cancellation Policy

    We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of trexperience charges.

    Up to 3 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.

    At 2 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.

    At 1 days before tour starts: Forfeit 80% of booking price.

    At 0 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.

Alternative Inca Trail to Machu Picchu 4D/3N

4 Days Starting and ending in Cusco, Peru

Visiting: Cusco, Huchuy Qosqo, Machu Picchu

Tour operator:

TreXperience

Tour code:

247333

Guide Type:

Fully Guided

Group size:

1 - 12

Physical rating:

Medium

Age range:

10-80

Tour operated in:

English , Spanish

Interests:

Cultural, History

Activities:

Sightseeing

From: $680 (USD)

NB: Prices correct on 23-Feb-2025 but subject to change.

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