Inca Trail to Machu Picchu – 5 Days / 4 Nights
Book Your 5-Day Inca Trail Adventure
- Guaranteed departure once confirmed
- Small-group trekking experience
- Organized transportation and accommodation
Follow the legendary Inca Trail to Machu Picchu on a five-day trekking adventure through the spectacular Andes of Peru. Walk along ancient stone pathways, discover remarkable Inca archaeological sites, cross breathtaking mountain passes, and experience the extraordinary beauty of the Andean cloud forest.
This 5-Day Inca Trail Trek offers an opportunity to explore the historic route at a rewarding pace, with time to appreciate its landscapes, archaeological treasures, and cultural heritage. Along the way, you will visit fascinating Inca sites such as Patallacta, Runkurakay, Sayacmarca, Phuyupatamarca, and Wiñay Wayna before reaching Machu Picchu through the legendary Sun Gate (Inti Punku).
Unlike a shorter visit, this itinerary includes an overnight stay in Aguas Calientes, allowing you to return to Machu Picchu the following morning for a guided exploration of the ancient citadel.
With transportation from Cusco, experienced bilingual guides, camping equipment, meals during the trek, and organized travel arrangements, you can concentrate on enjoying one of the world’s most remarkable trekking experiences.
Ready to explore the Inca Trail? Contact our local team to check permit availability and plan your journey to Machu Picchu.
Important Info About 5-Day Trekking Inca Trail to Machu Picchu
TIMING
6 Days /5 Night
TRADITIONAL
Adventure trip
LIVE TOUR GUIDE
Spanish, English
ACOMMODATION
Camping Tent
5-Day Inca Trail Trek – Tour Overview
The Inca Trail is one of the most celebrated trekking routes in South America, combining ancient Inca engineering, impressive mountain landscapes, and fascinating archaeological discoveries.
This five-day itinerary begins in Cusco and follows the historic trail from Km 82 (Piscacucho) toward Machu Picchu. During the journey, you will hike through Andean valleys, climb to the famous Dead Woman’s Pass, explore ancient settlements, and descend into the lush cloud forest.
After reaching the Sun Gate on the fourth day, you will descend to Aguas Calientes for an overnight hotel stay. On the fifth day, enjoy a guided visit to Machu Picchu before returning to Cusco by train and private transportation.
Tour Information
- Duration: 5 Days / 4 Nights
- Starting Point: Cusco, Peru
- Ending Point: Cusco, Peru
- Trekking Route: Inca Trail, starting at Km 82
- Highest Altitude: Approximately 4,200 m / 13,780 ft
- Difficulty: Moderate to challenging
- Tour Type: Guided trekking adventure
- Languages: English and Spanish
- Accommodation: Camping and hotel in Aguas Calientes
- Transportation: Private vehicle, tourist train and shuttle bus
- Machu Picchu Visit: Guided tour on Day 5
Why Choose the 5-Day Inca Trail to Machu Picchu?
The five-day Inca Trail is an excellent option for travelers who want to experience the famous Inca route while allowing additional time for the journey and their visit to Machu Picchu.
More Time to Experience the Inca Trail
Explore the original Inca pathways, discover ancient archaeological complexes, and appreciate the incredible scenery of the Andes without treating the journey as simply a race to Machu Picchu.
Explore Important Inca Archaeological Sites
Visit remarkable sites including Patallacta, Runkurakay, Sayacmarca, Phuyupatamarca, and Wiñay Wayna. Your guide will explain their historical importance and the extraordinary engineering of the Inca civilization.
Cross the Famous Dead Woman’s Pass
Reach approximately 4,200 meters above sea level at Warmiwañusca, also known as Dead Woman’s Pass, one of the most memorable challenges of the classic Inca Trail.
Arrive at Machu Picchu Through the Sun Gate
Experience your first panoramic view of Machu Picchu from Inti Punku, the historic Sun Gate, after several days of trekking through the Andes.
Enjoy an Overnight Stay in Aguas Calientes
After reaching Machu Picchu on the fourth day, descend to Aguas Calientes and spend the night in a hotel before your guided visit to the archaeological sanctuary the following morning.
Highlights of the 5-Day Inca Trail
- Hike the historic Inca Trail from Km 82 to Machu Picchu.
- Discover Patallacta and its impressive agricultural terraces.
- Cross Dead Woman’s Pass at approximately 4,200 m.
- Explore the archaeological sites of Runkurakay and Sayacmarca.
- Walk through the spectacular Andean cloud forest.
- Visit Phuyupatamarca and Wiñay Wayna.
- Experience the first panoramic view of Machu Picchu from the Sun Gate.
- Spend a relaxing night in Aguas Calientes.
- Enjoy a guided exploration of Machu Picchu on the fifth day.
- Return to Cusco by tourist train and private transportation.
Brief Itinerary – Inca Trail 5 Days
Day 1: Cusco – Km 82 – Patallacta – Wayllabamba
Travel from Cusco to Km 82, the starting point of the Inca Trail. Hike approximately 11 km through beautiful Andean landscapes and visit the archaeological site of Patallacta before reaching Wayllabamba campsite.
Day 2: Wayllabamba – Dead Woman’s Pass – Pacaymayu
Challenge yourself with the ascent to Dead Woman’s Pass (4,200 m / 13,780 ft), the highest point of the trek, followed by a descent into Pacaymayu Valley.
Day 3: Pacaymayu – Runkurakay – Sayacmarca – Phuyupatamarca
Discover impressive Inca archaeological sites, including Runkurakay and Sayacmarca, as you cross mountain passes and explore the beautiful Andean cloud forest.
Day 4: Phuyupatamarca – Wiñay Wayna – Sun Gate – Aguas Calientes
Explore Phuyupatamarca and Wiñay Wayna before reaching the Sun Gate (Inti Punku), where you will enjoy your first panoramic view of Machu Picchu. Descend to Aguas Calientes for an overnight hotel stay.
Day 5: Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu – Cusco
Visit Machu Picchu with your professional guide, discover its fascinating Inca history, and return to Cusco by tourist train and private transportation.
Detailed 5-Day Inca Trail Itinerary
Day 1: Cusco – Km 82 – Patallacta – Wayllabamba
Distance: Approximately 11 km
Walking time: 6–7 hours
Maximum altitude: 3,000 m / 9,843 ft
Meals: Lunch and dinner
Accommodation: Camping
Your Inca Trail adventure begins with an early morning pickup from your hotel in Cusco at approximately 5:30 a.m. Travel by private transportation through the beautiful Sacred Valley, enjoying views of traditional Andean villages and mountain landscapes along the way.
After a stop in Ollantaytambo, continue toward Piscacucho, also known as Km 82, the official starting point of the classic Inca Trail.
Once you arrive, meet your trekking team and complete the necessary entrance formalities before beginning your hike.
The first section follows the Urubamba River through beautiful valleys and agricultural landscapes. You will visit the archaeological site of Patallacta, an impressive Inca settlement featuring extensive agricultural terraces and stone structures.
Continue toward Hatunchaca, where you will enjoy lunch surrounded by the natural beauty of the Andes.
In the afternoon, follow the trail toward Wayllabamba, a traditional Andean community where your campsite will be prepared for the night.
Enjoy dinner and relax before the next day’s challenging ascent.
Day 2: Wayllabamba – Dead Woman’s Pass – Pacaymayu
Distance: Approximately 11 km
Walking time: 7–8 hours
Maximum altitude: 4,200 m / 13,780 ft
Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner
Accommodation: Camping
Today is one of the most challenging and rewarding days of the Inca Trail.
After breakfast, begin your ascent through the beautiful Huayruru Valley, following a mountain path surrounded by native vegetation, spectacular scenery, and impressive Andean landscapes.
Gradually climb toward Llulluchapampa, where you will take a break before continuing toward Warmiwañusca, famously known as Dead Woman’s Pass.
At approximately 4,200 meters above sea level, this is the highest point of your trek. From the summit, enjoy magnificent views of the surrounding mountains and deep valleys.
After taking time to appreciate the landscape and capture photographs, begin the descent toward Pacaymayu Valley.
Your campsite will be located in this beautiful mountain setting, where you can enjoy a warm dinner and rest after a demanding day of hiking.
Day 3: Pacaymayu – Runkurakay – Sayacmarca – Phuyupatamarca
Distance: Approximately 13 km
Walking time: 7–8 hours
Maximum altitude: 4,000 m / 13,123 ft
Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner
Accommodation: Camping
After breakfast, continue your journey through the historic Inca Trail toward the second mountain pass.
Along the way, discover Runkurakay, a fascinating circular Inca archaeological structure located high in the mountains. Your guide will explain its historical significance and its possible role as a resting or control point along the ancient route.
Continue ascending to the second pass, where you can enjoy spectacular views of the surrounding valleys and mountain peaks.
The trail then descends toward Sayacmarca, one of the most impressive archaeological complexes along the route. Explore its stone buildings, stairways, terraces, and carefully constructed pathways.
After visiting the site, continue through a beautiful section of the cloud forest, passing stone pathways and an impressive Inca tunnel before reaching Phuyupatamarca.
Known as the Town Above the Clouds, this archaeological complex offers extraordinary views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
Spend the night at the campsite near Phuyupatamarca, enjoying dinner and the peaceful atmosphere of the Andes.
Day 4: Phuyupatamarca – Wiñay Wayna – Sun Gate – Machu Picchu – Aguas Calientes
Distance: Approximately 10 km
Walking time: 7–8 hours
Maximum altitude: Approximately 3,600 m / 11,811 ft
Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner
Accommodation: Hotel in Aguas Calientes
Wake up early and enjoy the beautiful mountain scenery surrounding Phuyupatamarca.
Today, descend along ancient Inca stone stairways through the lush cloud forest, where the landscape gradually changes as you approach the Machu Picchu region.
Continue toward Wiñay Wayna, one of the most impressive archaeological sites on the Inca Trail. Explore its remarkable agricultural terraces, ceremonial structures, and stone buildings built into the mountainside.
After visiting Wiñay Wayna, continue toward Inti Punku, also known as the Sun Gate.
This is one of the most memorable moments of the entire trek. From this historic entrance, enjoy your first panoramic view of Machu Picchu, surrounded by dramatic green mountains and the spectacular landscape of the Urubamba Valley.
After enjoying the scenery and taking photographs, continue toward the designated exit and travel by bus down to Aguas Calientes.
Upon arrival, check into your hotel and enjoy some time to relax after four days of trekking.
Spend the evening in Aguas Calientes, preparing for your guided visit to Machu Picchu the following morning.
Day 5: Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu – Ollantaytambo – Cusco
Meals: Breakfast
After breakfast at your hotel, take the bus from Aguas Calientes up to Machu Picchu.
Enjoy a guided visit of approximately two hours through the extraordinary archaeological sanctuary. Discover its remarkable stone structures, agricultural terraces, ceremonial spaces, and fascinating history.
During the guided experience, learn about the Inca civilization, the construction of Machu Picchu, and the importance of this extraordinary archaeological site.
After the guided tour, you will have additional time according to your entrance ticket and applicable visiting regulations.
Return by bus to Aguas Calientes, where you can enjoy lunch or explore the town before boarding your scheduled afternoon Expedition tourist train to Ollantaytambo.
Upon arrival, meet your driver and continue by private transportation to your hotel in Cusco.
Your five-day Inca Trail adventure concludes with unforgettable memories of the Andes and Machu Picchu.
What’s Included in the 5-Day Inca Trail?
Your trekking package includes the following services according to the current tour arrangements:
- Pre-trek briefing with your guide in Cusco.
- Hotel pickup in Cusco.
- Private transportation from Cusco to Km 82.
- Inca Trail entrance permit.
- Machu Picchu entrance ticket.
- Bilingual English- and Spanish-speaking guides.
- Trekking support team, including cooks and porters.
- Meals during the trek.
- Four breakfasts, four lunches, and four dinners.
- Boiled water for refilling your bottles during the trek.
- Camping equipment, including tents and sleeping mattresses.
- Dining and kitchen tents.
- Porter service for camping equipment and food.
- Personal duffel bag service with the stated 7 kg allowance.
- Three nights of camping accommodation.
- One night of hotel accommodation in Aguas Calientes.
- Bus transportation between Machu Picchu and Aguas Calientes.
- Expedition-class tourist train from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo.
- Private transportation from Ollantaytambo to your hotel in Cusco.
- First-aid kit and emergency oxygen supply.
What’s Not Included?
The following expenses are not included in the tour price:
- Lunch on the final day in Aguas Calientes.
- Sleeping bag rental.
- Tips for guides, cooks, and porters.
- Personal expenses and additional purchases.
- Travel insurance.
- Other services not specifically mentioned in the inclusions.
Accommodation and Transportation
Camping Accommodation
During the first three nights, you will stay at designated campsites along the Inca Trail.
Camping equipment includes tents, sleeping mattresses, and dining facilities. Your trekking team will prepare meals and organize the camping arrangements throughout the journey.
Hotel in Aguas Calientes
On the fourth night, you will stay at a hotel in Aguas Calientes, providing time to rest before visiting Machu Picchu the following morning.
A private room upgrade is available at an additional cost, subject to confirmation.
Transportation
Your journey includes private transportation from Cusco to Km 82, bus transportation between Machu Picchu and Aguas Calientes, an Expedition-class tourist train to Ollantaytambo, and private transportation back to your hotel in Cusco.
What to Pack for the 5-Day Inca Trail to Machu Picchu
Preparing properly for the Inca Trail will make your five-day trekking adventure more comfortable and enjoyable. Weather conditions in the Andes can change quickly, with warm sunny days, cold nights, and occasional rain.
We recommend packing light and bringing only the essentials for hiking, camping, and your visit to Machu Picchu.
Essential Items
- Original Passport: Required for Inca Trail checkpoints and Machu Picchu entrance. Make sure your details match your permits and tickets.
Day Backpack: A comfortable 20–30-liter backpack for carrying your daily essentials.
- Hiking Boots: Comfortable, broken-in trekking boots with good grip and ankle support.
- Rain Jacket or Poncho: Essential for unexpected rain, especially during the rainy season.
- Trekking Pants: Lightweight, comfortable, and quick-drying trousers.
- Moisture-Wicking Shirts: Breathable clothing to keep you comfortable while hiking.
- Warm Clothing: Pack a fleece jacket, thermal layers, gloves, and a warm hat for cold mornings and evenings.
Hiking Socks: Bring several pairs of comfortable trekking socks to help prevent blisters.
- Sun Protection: Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat or cap are essential at high altitudes.
- Insect Repellent: Useful when walking through the warmer cloud forest sections.
- Refillable Water Bottle: Carry enough water for each trekking day. A hydration bladder is also a convenient option.
- Headlamp: Helpful for early mornings and moving around the campsites.
- Personal Toiletries: Toothbrush, toothpaste, biodegradable soap, toilet paper, and hand sanitizer.
- Personal Medication: Bring any medication you regularly need, along with basic blister protection.
- Camera and Chargers: Capture the beautiful landscapes and archaeological sites along the route.
Optional Items
- Walking Poles: Useful for additional stability on steep ascents and descents. Use rubber tips as required by trail regulations.
- Sandals or Comfortable Shoes: Ideal for relaxing at the campsite or in Aguas Calientes.
- Shorts: Useful during warmer trekking sections.
- Swimsuit: Optional if you plan to visit the thermal baths in Aguas Calientes during your free time.
- Binoculars: Great for observing Andean wildlife and enjoying distant mountain scenery.
- Extra Cash in Peruvian Soles: For personal expenses, additional snacks, drinks, and tips.
- Power Bank: Useful for keeping your phone and camera charged.
Important Packing Recommendations
- Pack light and organize your belongings in waterproof bags.
- Bring clothing that can be layered to adapt to changing temperatures.
- Wear your hiking boots before the trek to avoid blisters.
- Keep your passport, money, and important documents in a waterproof pouch.
- Follow the personal luggage allowance confirmed by your tour operator.
Get ready for your Inca Trail adventure! With the right equipment and preparation, you can enjoy the spectacular mountain scenery, ancient Inca pathways, and unforgettable arrival at Machu Picchu.
Important Information Before Booking
Inca Trail Permits
All travelers must have an official Inca Trail permit. Permits are limited and issued for specific departure dates.
Availability depends on the official permit allocation. We recommend contacting us as early as possible to check your preferred dates.
Trail Closure in February
The Inca Trail is traditionally closed throughout February for maintenance and conservation work.
Physical Preparation
The five-day Inca Trail is a moderate-to-challenging trekking experience involving high-altitude walking, steep ascents, stone stairways, and long hiking days.
We recommend regular walking, hiking, and cardiovascular training before your departure.
Altitude Acclimatization
Cusco is located at approximately 3,400 meters above sea level. We recommend arriving a few days before your trek to allow your body to adjust to the altitude.
Original Passport
Bring your original passport. The details must correspond to the information used for your Inca Trail permit and entrance tickets.
Pre-Trek Briefing
Attend the scheduled briefing in Cusco to review the itinerary, equipment, packing recommendations, and important trekking information with your guide.
Archaeological Sites You Will Discover
Patallacta
One of the first major archaeological sites encountered on the Inca Trail. Patallacta features extensive agricultural terraces and stone structures that demonstrate the remarkable planning and agricultural knowledge of the Incas.
Runkurakay
A distinctive circular archaeological structure located along the mountain route. Its strategic position provides insight into the organization of the ancient Inca road network.
Sayacmarca
An impressive archaeological complex built on a steep mountainside, featuring stone buildings, narrow stairways, terraces, and beautiful views of the surrounding cloud forest.
Phuyupatamarca
Known as the Town Above the Clouds, this archaeological site is famous for its ceremonial structures, terraces, and impressive mountain scenery.
Wiñay Wayna
One of the most spectacular archaeological complexes on the Inca Trail, recognized for its extensive agricultural terraces, stone structures, and beautiful setting overlooking the valley.
Inti Punku – The Sun Gate
The historic entrance overlooking Machu Picchu. It offers a memorable panoramic viewpoint and marks the final approach to the ancient Inca citadel.
Frequently Asked Questions About the 5-Day Inca Trail
1. How long is the Inca Trail 5-day trek?
The itinerary lasts five days and four nights. It includes four days of trekking from Km 82 toward Machu Picchu, followed by a guided visit to the archaeological sanctuary on the fifth day.
2. How difficult is the five-day Inca Trail?
The trek is considered moderate to challenging. It involves several hours of walking each day, steep ascents and descents, uneven stone pathways, and high-altitude sections.
Good physical preparation and proper acclimatization are recommended.
3. What is the highest altitude on the Inca Trail?
The highest point is Dead Woman’s Pass (Warmiwañusca), at approximately 4,200 meters (13,780 feet) above sea level.
4. Where does the five-day Inca Trail start?
The trek begins at Km 82, also known as Piscacucho, located in the Sacred Valley region near Ollantaytambo.
Transportation from Cusco to the starting point is included.
5. Do I need a permit for the Inca Trail?
Yes. Every traveler must have an official permit to hike the Inca Trail. Permits are limited and must be arranged in advance.
6. Is Machu Picchu included in the five-day Inca Trail?
Yes. The tour includes the Machu Picchu entrance ticket and a guided visit on the fifth day, according to the confirmed ticket arrangements.
7. Where do we sleep during the trek?
You will spend three nights camping at designated campsites along the Inca Trail and one night in a hotel in Aguas Calientes.
8. Are meals included?
Yes. The tour includes four breakfasts, four lunches, and four dinners. Lunch on the final day in Aguas Calientes is not included.
Please inform us in advance about dietary requirements.
9. Is transportation included?
Yes. The package includes private transportation from Cusco to Km 82, bus transportation between Machu Picchu and Aguas Calientes, the Expedition tourist train to Ollantaytambo, and private transportation back to Cusco.
10. When is the best time to hike the Inca Trail?
The dry season, generally from May through September, is popular for trekking because of its relatively lower rainfall.
April and October can also be attractive months, although weather conditions can vary.
The Inca Trail is closed in February for maintenance.
11. How far in advance should I book?
We recommend booking several months in advance, especially if you plan to travel during the high season. The official permit availability determines whether your preferred departure date can be confirmed.
12. Can I visit Machu Picchu without hiking the Inca Trail?
Yes. Travelers who prefer not to hike can visit Machu Picchu by train from Cusco or Ollantaytambo. We also offer alternative Machu Picchu tours.