Summary
The 4 day/3 night Inca Trail trek typically costs anywhere from $500 to $1,000. If you’re on a tight budget and don’t want a luxury trek with all the trimmings, consider $500 to $600 as a good price to aim for. If, on the other hand, you desire gourmet meals, ample trekking staff, and self-inflating air mattresses, be prepared to spend more than $800 (perhaps a lot more).
Before choosing an Inca Trail tour operator, it is essential to check what’s included in the price. Key details typically included by most operators are:
- Inca Trail permit and Machu Picchu entrance fee
- Bus transportation to the start of the trail
- English-speaking guide (or guides, depending on group size)
- Meals (at least 3 breakfasts, 3 lunches, and 3 dinners)
- Porters
Furthermore, most operators provide additional services and equipment as part of the total cost. Luxury treks (typically $1,000 and over) will naturally include more—or at least higher quality—services and equipment. Treks in the $500 to $600 range should comprise all the essentials with some extras included.
Moreover, always pay close attention to what each operator includes while comparing prices. If a price seems temptingly low, ensure essentials such as the Machu Picchu entrance fee are encompassed in the price of the trek.
Cheap Treks
In terms of lower-end prices, it’s usually true that “you get what you pay for”—and you are not the only individual who could suffer from a seemingly bargain-priced Inca Trail trek.
Be cautious with classic 4 day/3 night Inca Trail treks priced below $500 (unless, for instance, it is a promotional or low season offer from a reputable operator). The standard of service can drop noticeably, and the low price may reflect poor employment standards. Guides, porters, and cooks all need to be compensated by the operator—hence, if the Inca Trail price is surprisingly low, employee welfare could be alarmingly poor.
Classic Inca Trail Sample Prices (Updated 2019)
To provide you with a quick idea of Inca Trail prices (4 day/3 night unless otherwise stated), here are some rates from a few recommended Inca Trail tour operators:
- Peru Treks: $650
- Llama Path: $695
- Enigma Peru: $785
- Explorandes: $1,360 (extended 5 day/4 night luxury trek)
- Amazonas Explorer: $1,759 (extended 5 day/4 night luxury trek)
For those interested in a hike that demands less time and stamina, the two-day Inca Trail trek provides a fantastic alternative.
