Inca Trail to Machu picchu Trek - 5 Days / 4 Nights
The Inca Trail 5 Days is a more relaxed, complete, and well-paced version of the Classic Inca Trail. It is ideal for travelers who want to reach Machu Picchu by hiking along ancient Inca paths, but with a slower pace, more time to enjoy the archaeological sites, and one night in a hotel in Aguas Calientes before the main guided visit to the citadel.
Over five days, you will hike an original section of the Inca Trail, passing through valleys, mountains, cloud forests, high mountain passes, and ancient archaeological centers that were part of the Inca road network. The route begins at Km 82, the official starting point of the Inca Trail, and passes through places such as Patallacta, Willkaraqay, Runkurakay, Sayacmarca, Phuyupatamarca, Intipata, Wiñay Wayna, and finally the Sun Gate / Inti Punku, where you will have one of the most special first views of Machu Picchu.
Unlike the 4-day version, this itinerary allows you to enjoy the route with more calm. On the fourth day, you will arrive at Machu Picchu in the afternoon through the Sun Gate and enjoy a first panoramic visit through Circuit 1. Then, you will spend the night in a 3-star hotel in Aguas Calientes. On the fifth day, you will return to Machu Picchu for a more complete guided visit through Circuit 3, before returning to Cusco or the Sacred Valley by panoramic train and private transportation.
This experience is perfect for active travelers who want to enjoy the Inca Trail in a deeper way, without feeling too rushed. You do not need to be an expert trekker, but good physical condition is important, as you should be prepared to hike for several days at altitude.
- Tour type: Trekking, nature, history, archaeology, camping, hotel, and Machu Picchu.
- Ideal for: Active travelers, couples, friends, families with older children, and people who want to hike the Inca Trail at a more relaxed pace.
- Duration: 5 days / 4 nights.
- Start and end point: Cusco / Cusco or Sacred Valley, according to coordination.
- Difficulty: Moderate to challenging.
- Total hiking distance: Approximately 49 km / 30.4 mi.
- Maximum altitude: Approximately 4,215 m / 13,829 ft at Dead Woman’s Pass.
- Accommodation: 3 nights camping and 1 night in a 3-star hotel in Aguas Calientes.
- Languages: English and Spanish.
- Meals included: According to the confirmed program.
- Season: Available during the Inca Trail operating season, subject to permit availability and weather conditions.
- Permits: An official Inca Trail permit is required. Spaces are limited and must be booked in advance.
- Machu Picchu: First afternoon visit on Day 4 through Circuit 1 and main guided visit on Day 5 through Circuit 3, subject to availability and current regulations.
Tour Highlights
- Hike the Classic Inca Trail to Machu Picchu in a 5-day version.
- Enjoy a more relaxed and better-paced route.
- Visit Inca sites such as Patallacta, Runkurakay, Sayacmarca, Phuyupatamarca, Intipata, and Wiñay Wayna.
- Cross the famous Dead Woman’s Pass, the highest point of the Inca Trail.
- Reach Machu Picchu on foot through the Sun Gate / Inti Punku.
- Enjoy a first panoramic visit to Machu Picchu through Circuit 1 on Day 4.
- Spend one night in a 3-star hotel in Aguas Calientes.
- Return to Machu Picchu on Day 5 for a guided visit through Circuit 3.
- Return by bus, panoramic Vistadome train, and private transportation.
- Ideal for travelers who want a more complete and less rushed experience.
Why Travelers Enjoy This Tour
This tour is a great option if you want to experience the Inca Trail with more calm and a better-paced hiking schedule. You will have more time to acclimate along the route, rest at the campsites, take photos, and listen to your guide’s explanations without feeling that everything is moving too quickly.
The route keeps the full essence of the Classic Inca Trail: ancient stone paths, mountains, cloud forests, archaeological sites, high passes, and the excitement of reaching Machu Picchu on foot through the Sun Gate. The difference is in the pace and the final experience, as you will spend one night in Aguas Calientes before returning to the citadel for a more complete visit the next day.
One of the most special moments comes on Day 4, when, after several days hiking along Inca trails, Machu Picchu appears from the Sun Gate. Arriving in the afternoon allows you to enjoy a first panoramic view of the citadel and then rest in a hotel before the main guided visit the following day.
What Makes This Experience Special
What makes the Inca Trail 5 Days special is that it allows you to experience the Inca Trail in a more complete way. It is not only about reaching Machu Picchu, but about enjoying the process better: the landscapes, archaeological sites, campsites, guide explanations, and changes in weather and vegetation along the route.
During the journey, you will visit important places such as Patallacta, Runkurakay, Sayacmarca, Phuyupatamarca, Intipata, and Wiñay Wayna, each with its own history and special location.
These sites help you understand how the Incas connected valleys, mountains, and ceremonial spaces through a carefully built network of roads. In addition, this itinerary includes a special afternoon arrival at Machu Picchu and one night in Aguas Calientes, allowing you to rest before returning to the citadel the next day for a more relaxed guided visit.
Best Time to Travel
The best season to hike the Inca Trail 5 Days is usually from April to October, during the dry season. During these months, there is a better chance of clear skies, better mountain views, and more stable hiking conditions.
From November to March, rain is more frequent and the trails may be wet or slippery. However, the landscapes are often greener and more vibrant. During this season, it is very important to bring a good waterproof jacket or rain poncho.
The Inca Trail usually closes in February for maintenance, according to official regulations. We recommend confirming availability before planning your trip.
Who This Tour Is Best For
This tour is ideal for travelers who want to hike the Inca Trail at a more relaxed pace than the classic 4-day version. It is perfect for those who enjoy hiking, taking photos, visiting archaeological sites, and having more time to rest along the route.
It is also a good option for couples, groups of friends, families with older children, and active travelers who want to experience the full Inca Trail, but with a final night in a hotel before the main visit to Machu Picchu.
You do not need to be a professional athlete, but you should have good physical condition. The route includes uphill and downhill sections, Inca steps, and mountain passes. We recommend spending at least two days in Cusco or the Sacred Valley before the trek to acclimate better.
Included
Professional Guides
You will be accompanied by professional bilingual guides with experience in trekking, Andean history, and group management in mountain environments. Our guides know the Inca Trail very well and will be with you throughout the route, sharing information about the archaeological sites, nature, local culture, and the importance of this ancient path to Machu Picchu.
In addition to guiding you during the hike, your guide will also pay attention to the group’s pace, safety, acclimatization, and any needs that may arise during the trek.
Official Inca Trail Permit and Machu Picchu Tickets
The tour includes the official permit to enter the Inca Trail, subject to availability at the time of booking. This permit is mandatory for all travelers and can only be arranged by authorized operators.
It also includes Machu Picchu tickets according to the confirmed program: a first panoramic visit through Circuit 1 on Day 4 and a main guided visit through Circuit 3 on Day 5, subject to availability and current regulations.
Permits and tickets are issued with the traveler’s full name, passport number, and specific entrance date. Once confirmed, they usually cannot be modified, transferred, or refunded.
Pre-Trek Briefing
The night before the Inca Trail begins, you will have an informative meeting with your guide. During this briefing, the final details of the tour will be reviewed, including schedules, important recommendations, weather, required gear, and group organization.
You will also receive your duffel bag, which will be carried by the porters during the trek. This bag has an approximate weight limit of 7 kg / 14 lb, including personal clothing, sleeping bag, and sleeping mat if applicable according to the confirmed service.
Porter for Your Personal Belongings
The service includes a porter to carry your duffel bag during the Inca Trail, according to the allowed weight limit. This allows you to hike with only a small daypack carrying essentials such as water, snacks, a rain jacket, camera, documents, and personal items.
Please note that you will not have access to your duffel bag during the day’s hike. You will receive it again when you arrive at the campsite in the afternoon.
Porter Team
During the route, you will have a team of porters responsible for carrying the camping equipment, food, utensils, and part of the general trek logistics. They also help set up and take down the campsites, allowing you to arrive each day to a space already prepared for rest.
The work of the porters is essential for a comfortable and well-organized experience. For this reason, the service respects the weight limits established by Inca Trail regulations and promotes fair and responsible treatment of the local team.
Trekking Chef and Meals During the Route
The tour includes a trekking chef and kitchen team along the route. Meals are prepared at camp and designed to help you maintain energy during the hike.
Breakfasts, lunches, and dinners are usually served warm, with varied options that may include soups, main dishes, side dishes, hot drinks, and simple desserts, according to the confirmed program.
Dietary restrictions such as vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, or other special needs can also be considered, as long as they are informed in advance at the time of booking.
Water During the Trek
During the route, boiled, filtered, and cooled water will be provided at the points indicated by the team, usually starting from the first lunch and during meals. This water will be available to refill your bottle or hydration system during the trek.
It is important to bring enough water for the first morning of the hike, as the team needs to reach the first preparation point before they can provide safe drinking water.
We recommend bringing a reusable bottle or hydration system with a minimum capacity of 2 to 3 liters.
Camping Equipment
The tour includes camping equipment during the route, according to the confirmed program. This may include sleeping tents, dining tent, tables, chairs, kitchen utensils, and the necessary equipment for meals.
Tents are usually shared by two people, unless a single tent is requested for an additional cost and subject to availability. A basic sleeping mat or additional equipment may also be included depending on the type of service booked.
Hotel in Aguas Calientes
The tour includes 1 night in a 3-star hotel in Aguas Calientes on Day 4, according to availability and confirmed category. This night allows you to rest after the hike and prepare better for the main guided visit to Machu Picchu the next day.
Transportation and Panoramic Train
The service includes the necessary transportation during the experience, according to the confirmed program. This normally includes the transfer from Cusco to Km 82, buses between Machu Picchu and Aguas Calientes, panoramic Vistadome train back to Ollantaytambo, and final private transportation to your hotel in Cusco or the Sacred Valley.
First Aid and Emergency Oxygen
Your safety will always be a priority. The guide will carry a first-aid kit and emergency oxygen during the route. The team is prepared to assist with common situations during the trek, such as altitude discomfort, fatigue, minor injuries, or sudden weather changes.
In case of a more serious emergency, the guide and operator will evaluate the safest way to assist and evacuate the passenger if necessary.
Not Included
- Breakfast on the first day, unless otherwise specified.
- Lunch and dinner on the last day.
- Additional drinks and snacks.
- Sleeping bag, unless included in the confirmed service.
- Inflatable sleeping mat, unless included in the confirmed service.
- Trekking poles, unless listed as included.
- Single tent, if requested as an additional service.
- Extra porter for additional weight.
- Entrance to Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain, unless confirmed as an additional service.
- Personal expenses.
- Tips for the guide, chef, porters, and support staff.
- Travel insurance.
- Services not mentioned in the program.
Day 1: Cusco – Km 82 – Patallacta – Wayllabamba
Your adventure will begin early with pickup from your hotel in Cusco. Then, we will travel by tourist transportation to Km 82, the official starting point of the Inca Trail. During the transfer, you will pass through the Sacred Valley, with views of mountains, Andean villages, farmland, and the Urubamba River.
Upon arrival at Km 82, we will pass through the official Inca Trail checkpoint and begin the hike. This first day has the perfect pace to gradually ease into the experience. We will hike through the valleys of the Urubamba and Cusichaca rivers, surrounded by open landscapes, mountains, and small local communities.
Along the way, we will visit important Inca sites such as Willkaraqay and Patallacta, one of the first major archaeological complexes on the route. From this point, you will be able to see agricultural terraces, ancient settlements, and learn more about the role these places had within the Inca Trail system.
Later, we will continue toward the Wayllabamba area, where our first campsite will be located. Upon arrival, the team will already have everything prepared so you can rest, enjoy dinner, and get used to the trekking environment.
Hiking distance: Approximately 13 km / 8 mi.
Hiking duration: Approximately 6 hours.
Trailhead elevation: Approximately 2,720 m / 8,923 ft.
Campsite elevation: Approximately 3,000 m / 9,842 ft.
Difficulty: Moderate.
Weather: Mild during the day and cool at night.
Inca sites visited: Willkaraqay and Patallacta.
Meals: Lunch and dinner.
Accommodation: Campsite near Wayllabamba.
Day 2: Wayllabamba – Dead Woman’s Pass – Pacaymayo
After breakfast at the campsite, we will begin the most challenging day of the Inca Trail. The hike starts with a steady ascent toward Dead Woman’s Pass, also known as Warmiwañusca, the highest point of the entire route.
This section requires patience, steady breathing, and a consistent pace. The advantage of the 5-day itinerary is that you will have more time to manage the climb calmly, take breaks when needed, and enjoy the mountain views without feeling too rushed.
Once we reach the pass, located at approximately 4,215 m / 13,829 ft, you will have time to rest, take photos, and enjoy the satisfaction of reaching one of the most iconic points of the trek. From here, we will begin the descent toward Pacaymayo, where our campsite for the second night will be located.
This day is demanding, but also very special. The mountain views, the change in vegetation, and the feeling of crossing the highest pass make it one of the most memorable days for many travelers.
Hiking distance: Approximately 10 km / 6.2 mi.
Hiking duration: Approximately 6 hours.
Trailhead elevation: Approximately 3,000 m / 9,842 ft.
Maximum altitude: Approximately 4,215 m / 13,829 ft.
Campsite elevation: Approximately 3,600 m / 11,811 ft.
Difficulty: Challenging.
Weather: Cold, especially in the morning and at the mountain pass.
Inca sites visited: Scenic route toward Warmiwañusca.
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
Accommodation: Campsite in Pacaymayo.
Day 3: Pacaymayo – Runkurakay – Sayacmarca – Phuyupatamarca
After breakfast, we will continue through one of the most complete and beautiful sections of the Inca Trail. The route begins with a climb toward the second mountain pass, passing by Runkurakay, a circular archaeological site located in a strategic area of the trail.
Then, we will continue along stone paths, Inca stairways, and landscapes that gradually become greener. During the route, we will visit Sayacmarca, an impressive archaeological site known for its elevated location and views over the valley. This place helps you better understand how the Incas built ceremonial centers in strategic mountain locations.
As we continue, we will enter the cloud forest, one of the most special areas of the route because of its vegetation, humidity, and views. Finally, we will arrive at Phuyupatamarca, known as “the place above the clouds.” This is one of the most scenic campsites on the Inca Trail, with unforgettable views of the Andes if the weather allows.
Hiking distance: Approximately 14 km / 8.7 mi.
Hiking duration: Approximately 8 hours.
Trailhead elevation: Approximately 3,600 m / 11,811 ft.
Campsite elevation: Approximately 3,650 m / 11,975 ft.
Difficulty: Moderate to challenging.
Weather: Cold in the morning and more humid when entering the cloud forest.
Inca sites visited: Runkurakay, Sayacmarca, and Phuyupatamarca.
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
Accommodation: Campsite in Phuyupatamarca.
Day 4: Phuyupatamarca – Intipata – Wiñay Wayna – Sun Gate – Machu Picchu – Aguas Calientes
This will be one of the most beautiful and exciting days of the entire route. After breakfast, we will begin the descent from Phuyupatamarca, enjoying mountain views, cloud forest, and ancient Inca paths.
During the route, we will visit Intipata, an impressive set of agricultural terraces with views over the valley, and then continue toward Wiñay Wayna, one of the most beautiful archaeological sites on the Inca Trail. Its terraces, stairways, and location on the mountainside make it one of the most memorable visits of the trek.
After enjoying Wiñay Wayna, we will continue hiking toward the Sun Gate / Inti Punku. From this point, you will have your first view of Machu Picchu, one of the most exciting experiences of the trip. Arriving in the afternoon, we will enter Machu Picchu for a first panoramic visit through Circuit 1, ideal for enjoying the classic views of the citadel and taking photos.
Then, we will take the bus down to Aguas Calientes, where you will spend the night in a 3-star hotel. This hotel night will be a great opportunity to rest, take a shower, and prepare for the main guided visit the next day.
Hiking distance: Approximately 12 km / 7.5 mi.
Hiking duration: Approximately 8 hours.
Trailhead elevation: Approximately 3,650 m / 11,975 ft.
Machu Picchu elevation: Approximately 2,430 m / 7,972 ft.
Difficulty: Moderate.
Weather: Warmer and more humid, with cloud forest conditions.
Inca sites visited: Phuyupatamarca, Intipata, Wiñay Wayna, Sun Gate, and Machu Picchu through Circuit 1.
Meals: Breakfast and lunch, according to the confirmed program.
Accommodation: 3-star hotel in Aguas Calientes.
Day 5: Machu Picchu – Aguas Calientes – Ollantaytambo – Cusco
After breakfast at the hotel, you will return to Machu Picchu in the morning for the main guided visit through Circuit 3, according to the confirmed ticket and official availability. During the tour, your guide will explain the history, architecture, and meaning of the citadel within the Andean world.
This second visit allows you to explore Machu Picchu more calmly after resting in Aguas Calientes. You will visit the areas allowed by the assigned circuit and have time to appreciate the importance of this place, considered one of the most fascinating archaeological sites in the world.
After the visit, you will take the bus back to Aguas Calientes, where you will have time to have lunch on your own or rest before boarding the return train. Then, you will travel by panoramic Vistadome train to Ollantaytambo. Upon arrival, our private transportation will be waiting to take you back to your hotel in Cusco or the Sacred Valley, according to coordination.
Hiking distance: Light walking inside Machu Picchu.
Machu Picchu elevation: Approximately 2,430 m / 7,972 ft.
Difficulty: Easy to moderate.
Weather: Mild, with possible humidity from the cloud forest.
Inca sites visited: Machu Picchu through Circuit 3.
Meals: Breakfast.
Accommodation: Not applicable. Return to Cusco or the Sacred Valley.
Packing List
Preparing your gear well will make the Inca Trail much more comfortable. We recommend traveling light and bringing only what you need for the hike. During the day, you will hike with a small backpack, while your duffel bag will be carried by the porters to the campsite.
The allowed weight for the duffel bag is usually 7 kg / 14 lb, including personal clothing, sleeping bag, and sleeping mat if applicable according to the confirmed service.
Essentials
- Original passport, required to enter the Inca Trail and Machu Picchu.
- Small daypack, comfortable for walking several hours.
- Trekking shoes with good traction and already broken in before the trip.
- Comfortable hiking clothes.
- Waterproof jacket or rain poncho.
- Warm layered clothing for temperature changes.
- Hat or cap for the sun.
- Gloves and warm hat for cold mornings.
- Sunglasses.
- Sunscreen.
- Insect repellent.
- Reusable water bottle or hydration system.
- Headlamp with charged or spare batteries.
- Personal medication.
- Cash in Peruvian soles for drinks, tips, or personal expenses.
For Your Duffel Bag
These items will go in your duffel bag and will be available when you arrive at camp in the afternoon. You will not have access to this bag during the day’s hike.
- Sleeping bag, your own or rented, according to the confirmed service.
- Inflatable sleeping mat, if you choose to bring or rent one.
- Change of clothes for the hiking days.
- Trekking pants or comfortable leggings.
- Breathable shirts or T-shirts.
- Light thermal clothing for sleeping.
- Warm jacket for nights at camp.
- Extra trekking socks.
- Enough underwear for the trek.
- Sandals or light shoes for resting at camp.
- Small quick-dry towel.
- Plastic or waterproof bag for wet or dirty clothes.
Toiletries
- Toothbrush and toothpaste.
- Toilet paper.
- Wet wipes.
- Hand sanitizer.
- Small deodorant.
- Lip balm.
- Moisturizer (optional).
- Personal medication.
- Feminine hygiene products, if needed.
- Small bag for personal trash.
- Biodegradable soap, if necessary.
Inside Your Daypack
Your daypack should include everything you may need while hiking, since your duffel bag will be with the porters and will not be available until you reach the campsite.
- Original passport.
- Water, at least 2 liters.
- Personal snacks such as energy bars, dried fruit, or chocolate.
- Waterproof jacket or rain poncho.
- Light warm layer.
- Sunscreen.
- Insect repellent.
- Sunglasses.
- Hat or cap.
- Camera or phone with enough battery.
- Portable charger.
- Personal medication.
- Toilet paper or tissues.
- Hand sanitizer.
- Cash in Peruvian soles.
- Trekking poles, if you use them.
- Backpack cover, especially during the rainy season.
Price
Price from: USD 998 per person.
The price may vary depending on the date, permit availability, number of travelers, type of service, hotel category, train category, and additional services included.
Private service: Available upon request.
The price will depend on the group size and the level of customization required.
Important note: Inca Trail permits and Machu Picchu tickets are limited and usually sell out in advance, especially between April and October. We recommend booking as early as possible.
Additional Services Available
Equipment Rental
If you do not want to bring all your gear from home, you can check availability for renting some items for the trek, such as:
- Sleeping bag.
- Inflatable sleeping mat.
- Trekking poles.
- Single tent.
Prices may vary depending on availability and must be confirmed before the tour begins.
Additional Porter
If you would like to carry more than the allowed weight in the included duffel bag, you can request an additional porter, subject to availability and Inca Trail regulations.
This service must be booked in advance, as porters must also be registered within the official Inca Trail permit and logistics.
Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain
Depending on availability, it may be possible to add Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain to complement your Machu Picchu visit.
These tickets are limited and must be booked in advance. They have an additional cost and are subject to availability from the Ministry of Culture.
Hotel or Train Upgrade
A hotel upgrade in Aguas Calientes or a higher-category train may be quoted, subject to availability and schedule.
The difficulty is moderate to challenging. Because it is spread over 5 days, the pace may feel more comfortable than the classic 4-day version, but it is still a multi-day hike with uphill sections, downhill sections, Inca steps, and high mountain passes.
The route is similar, but the 5-day itinerary has a slower pace and one night in Aguas Calientes. It also allows a first panoramic visit to Machu Picchu on Day 4 and a main guided visit on Day 5.
Yes. An official Inca Trail permit is required. Spaces are limited, so we recommend booking in advance.
Yes. You will arrive at Machu Picchu by hiking through the Sun Gate / Inti Punku, one of the most special ways to see the citadel for the first time.
You will sleep three nights at organized campsites along the route and one night in a 3-star hotel in Aguas Calientes.
You do not need to be an expert, but you should have good physical condition and be used to walking several hours a day.
The tour can operate with light or moderate rain. That is why it is important to bring waterproof clothing. In case of extreme conditions, the guide and operator will evaluate the route for safety.
Yes, according to the indicated program, the return includes the panoramic Vistadome train to Ollantaytambo and private transportation back to Cusco or the Sacred Valley.
