Featured on many a bucket list, the hike to Machu Picchu is one of the most beautiful expeditions in the world. There are many different ways to get there. Which means there are many different prices! If you’re wondering: How much does it cost to hike Machu Picchu? This post has the information you need…
How much does it cost to hike Machu Picchu?
As we said, there are many different ways to get to Machu Picchu. The most popular (and crowded) hike is on the Inca Trail. If you want to hike this trail, you need to have a permit and be accompanied by a guide recognised by the Peruvian government. This is for the protection of the trail and natural habitat. However, you cannot buy this on your own.
On the Inca Trail, the permit costs roughly $680.
Flying to the Machu Picchu trail
However, the permit is not the only cost involved. You’ll need to fly to Peru, then to Cusco, then pay for guides, food and camping equipment. But if you book with Earth’s Edge, everything is taken care of…
How much is the trek to Machu Picchu?
Our current 14-day Machu Picchu Trek via Choquequirao costs €2,999 per person*. The expedition is land-only, so international flights are not included.
Remember, we take a different route to Machu Picchu, going off the beaten path and hiking to the incredible Choquequirao and on through the Peruvian Andes. This gives you a chance to see the stunning scenery and Machu Picchu on a less touristy route.
What’s included?
- Pre-departure training weekend in Wicklow, Ireland
- An Earth’s Edge team jacket, buff and cap for you to keep
- Ongoing pre-departure support from the Earth’s Edge team based in Ireland
- Advice on training, equipment and preparing for altitude
- Highly experienced Peruvian mountain guides
- Dedicated Earth’s Edge expedition doctor
- Full local support team including guides, cooks and mules
- Accommodation throughout the expedition (based on twin sharing in Wajaqui Ecolodge, in hotels in Cusco and Aguas Calientes, and camping elsewhere)
- High-quality tents and Therm-a-Rest sleeping mats during the trek
- All meals and drinking water as outlined in the itinerary (in Cusco and Aguas Calientes accommodation is based on B&B)
- Celebratory dinner at the end of the expedition
- Planned group transport throughout the trip
- Airport transfers that match our recommended flights
- Entry to Machu Picchu
- Guided tour of Machu Picchu
- Entry to Machu Picchu Mountain
- Group trekking and camping equipment
- Fully stocked group medical kit
What isn’t included?
There are a few additional costs to allow for when planning your Machu Picchu expedition.
International flights to Cusco are not included in the expedition price. You’ll also need to arrange your own travel insurance and any vaccinations or entry requirements that apply to you.
Personal trekking equipment such as your hiking boots, clothing and sleeping bag is not provided, so make sure you budget for anything you still need from the equipment list.
You’ll also want some spending money for meals that aren’t included, drinks, souvenirs and any optional activities. We recommend bringing a combination of cash and a card rather than relying entirely on ATMs while travelling.
How much should I budget for tips?
Tips for the local team are not included in the expedition price.
We’ll provide up-to-date tipping guidance before departure based on the size of your group and the local team supporting the expedition. Tipping is always discretionary, but it is customary on trekking expeditions in Peru and is a great way to recognise the work of the guides, cooks and support team.
Can I pay in instalments?
Yes. You can secure your place with an initial deposit and pay the remaining balance in instalments before departure.
You don’t need to follow a fixed monthly payment schedule, but the full expedition balance must be paid by the final payment deadline shown at the time of booking.
You can read our Ultimate Guide to Machu Picchu too, which has lots of useful information about the trek.
So, how much does it cost to trek to Machu Picchu?
The total cost will depend on the type of trip you choose and what is included.
Our current 14-day Machu Picchu Trek via Choquequirao is a fully supported expedition through the Peruvian Andes, including nine trekking days, local guides and support staff, accommodation, most meals, internal transport, Machu Picchu entry and an expedition doctor.
You can view the current Machu Picchu expedition for the latest price, full inclusions, departure dates and itinerary.
*Prices in this blog are reflective at the time of writing. Prices are subject to change
