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Inca Trail Sun Gate Machu Picchu 8 Days Cusco Peru
Cusco & Peru Adventure

Sun Gate Machu Picchu 8 Days

Hike the classic Inca Trail to the Sun Gate and explore Machu Picchu with this complete 8-day adventure in Cusco, Peru.

8 days / 7 nights Moderate to Challenging 4,215 m / 13,829 ft Small groups
Overview

About this experience

The Sun Gate Machu Picchu 8 Days tour is one of the most iconic trekking experiences in Peru. This itinerary combines Cusco, the Sacred Valley and the classic 4-day Inca Trail hike, ending at the famous Sun Gate (Inti Punku) with a breathtaking first view of Machu Picchu. Designed for adventure travelers, this tour includes camping, professional guides, porters and unforgettable landscapes along the ancient Inca paths.

Highlights

Why you will love this tour

Explore Cusco and acclimatize to the Andes

Sacred Valley tour with Pisaq and Ollantaytambo

Hike the Classic Inca Trail (4 days)

Visit Patallacta, Wiñay Wayna and Inca ruins

Reach the Sun Gate (Inti Punku) at sunrise

Guided tour of Machu Picchu (2 hours)

Spectacular views of Salkantay and Vilcabamba range

Camping experience with professional team

Itinerary

Detailed itinerary

Day 1 Day 1: Arrival in Cusco

Arrival in Cusco and transfer to your hotel. Enjoy a free day to acclimatize to the altitude and explore the city at your own pace.

Day 2 Day 2: Sacred Valley Tour

Full-day tour visiting Pisaq ruins and market, Urubamba for lunch and Ollantaytambo fortress. In the evening, attend your trekking briefing and prepare your gear.

Day 3 Day 3: Inca Trail Day 1 – Patallacta to Ayapata

Early departure to KM 82. Begin your trek visiting Patallacta. Continue hiking through valleys and small communities until reaching Ayapata camp. Overnight camping with dinner.

Day 4 Day 4: Inca Trail Day 2 – Dead Woman’s Pass

The most challenging day. Hike to Dead Woman’s Pass (4,215 m), the highest point of the trail. Descend into Pacaymayu valley and continue to the second pass before reaching camp at Chaquicocha.

Day 5 Day 5: Inca Trail Day 3 – Cloud Forest

One of the most scenic days. Walk through cloud forest landscapes with views of Salkantay and Vilcabamba. Visit Phuyupatamarka and Wiñay Wayna ruins before your final camp.

Day 6 Day 6: Inca Trail Day 4 – Sun Gate & Machu Picchu

Early start to reach the Sun Gate (Inti Punku) at sunrise and enjoy your first panoramic view of Machu Picchu. Continue to the citadel for a guided tour. Return to Cusco by train.

Day 7 Day 7: Free Day in Cusco

Enjoy a free day to relax or explore Cusco. Optional activities such as Rainbow Mountain are available.

Day 8 Day 8: Departure

Transfer to Cusco airport for your return flight. End of services.

Includes

What is included and not included

Included

  • Airport transfers in Cusco
  • 4 nights hotel in Cusco
  • All Inca Trail permits and entrance fees
  • Entrance ticket to Machu Picchu
  • Professional bilingual guide (English & Spanish)
  • Camping equipment (tents, dining tent, kitchen)
  • Porters and cooking staff
  • Meals during the trek (breakfast, lunch and dinner)
  • Train ticket return from Aguas Calientes
  • Bus ticket Machu Picchu – Aguas Calientes
  • First aid kit and oxygen support
  • Rain ponchos and backpack covers

Not included

  • Flights (international and domestic)
  • Meals not mentioned
  • Sleeping bag, trekking poles (optional rental)
  • Travel insurance
  • Tips for guides and porters
  • Personal expenses
Before you go

Important information

  • Bring your original passport (mandatory for Inca Trail)
  • Book months in advance (permits are limited)
  • Be in good physical condition for trekking
  • Bring proper hiking boots
  • Carry a day backpack (max 25L for Machu Picchu)
  • Bring warm clothes and rain gear
  • Use sunscreen, hat and insect repellent
  • Attend the briefing before the trek
Pricing

Price and booking information

Starting from $1350 USD

The Sun Gate Machu Picchu 8 Days tour includes hotels, Inca Trail permits, camping equipment, professional guides, porters, train tickets and entrance fees. It is one of the most complete trekking experiences in Peru.

FAQ

Frequently asked questions

Is this the full Inca Trail?

Yes, this is the classic 4-day Inca Trail ending at the Sun Gate.

How difficult is the trek?

It is moderate to challenging due to altitude and long hiking days.

Are porters included?

Yes, porters carry camping equipment and assist during the trek.

Do I need to book in advance?

Yes, permits are limited and sell out months in advance.