▷ 5-Day Inca Trail to Machu Picchu – Adventure Hike in Peru
Camps & Hotel
Acomodation
From 5°C to 19°C
Temperature
4200 m | 13780 ft
Max. Altitude
All year, except (February)
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Overwiew 5-Day Inca Trail Adventure to Machu Picchu
Embark on a 5-day Inca Trail adventure to Machu Picchu, where every step connects you with Peru’s rich history. Along the way, you will discover breathtaking landscapes, awe-inspiring ancient ruins, and the unique magic of the Andes on this unforgettable guided journey.
Moreover, you’ll experience Peru through the eyes of the Incas by hiking one of Cuzco’s most scenic and iconic natural routes. This section of the historic Inca Trail leads directly to Machu Picchu, following the same sacred path once walked by Inca pilgrims hundreds of years ago.
As the trail unfolds, you’ll explore temples, ceremonial portals, resting areas, and criss-crossing terraces hidden high above the cloud forest. Surrounded by sacred mountains and fresh alpine air, the journey culminates in the majestic Sanctuary of Machu Picchu.
Ultimately, the Inca Trail—recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site—offers the ideal combination of adventure, culture, and history. It’s a perfect choice for travelers who wish to walk, learn, and fully live the legacy of the Incas
For those seeking the full journey, we also offer the Inca Trail Classic to Machu Picchu—or Short Inca Trail 2 Days a legendary multi-day trek that captures the heart of the Andes and the spirit of the Inca civilization.
Your trip is supported by porters for convenience, and we provide top-quality camping gear along with a balanced, energy-rich diet.
Would you like a remote experience on the Inca Trail 5 Days? If so, then secure your spot today!
Summary Trip: 5-Day Inca Trail Adventure to Machu Picchu
Trip Type: Hiking, adventure, history, culture and nature
Trip Length: 5 Days/4 Nights
Group Size: 2-12 Hikers
Difficulty Level: Moderate to Semi-challenging, but rewarding hike.
Weather: Dry season (Cold & sunny days) – Rainy season (Changeable weather)
Hiking Distance: 43 km
5-Day Inca Trail Adventure to Machu Picchu
Day 1: Cuzco – Ollanta-km 82-Tarayoc- Hatunchaca/Wayllabamba
We will pick you up early in the morning from your hotel or accommodation in Cuzco, between 4:30 and 5:00 AM. Then, our team will drive you to Ollantaytambo, where you can enjoy a nourishing breakfast.
After breakfast, we’ll continue for about one more hour by car until reaching the trailhead at Km 82, in Piscacucho village. At the Inca Trail checkpoint, you’ll present your passport to the park rangers before beginning the hike.
The first two hours of the hike are relatively easy. Along the way, you’ll spot impressive Incan sites such as Ccanabamba, once used as a resting place, and Patallacta, a multifunctional town built by the Incas. You’ll also observe native flora and fauna, including trees, hummingbirds, butterflies, and traditional Andean homes.
From Patallacta, the walk to the lunch spot takes about 25 minutes. After enjoying a freshly prepared meal, you’ll continue hiking for two more hours to reach the campsite at Hatunchaca or Wayllabamba. There, you’ll relax with a hot cup of tea during our happy hour, followed by a delicious dinner cooked by our Inca chef. Afterward, it’s time to rest and recharge for the next day’s adventure.
Hiking Distance: 11 km -7 miles (5 to 6 hours)
Campsites Altitude: Night 1: 3,000 (9842 ft)
Day 2: Hatunchaca/Wayllabamba-Llulluchapampa-Dead Woman Pass-Pacaymayo
Today is your big day—the moment to conquer the high mountains of the Andes. After a hearty breakfast, you’ll start hiking uphill along the trail for about 3.5 hours until reaching the lunch spot.
Then, it’s time to test your physical endurance as you begin the ascent to Dead Woman Pass, which sits at an altitude of 4,215 meters. Stay strong! The climb takes roughly 2 hours. Once at the top, take your time to soak in the majesty of the snow-capped peaks, the vast Andean landscapes, and the surrounding mountain ranges.
After a well-deserved break, we begin a steady descent along the Inca stairs. This final stretch takes around 2 more hours until we arrive at the Pacaymayu campsite, where you’ll settle in and spend the night close to nature.
Hiking Distance: 10 km-7.5 miles (6-7 hours)
Campsites Altitude: Night 2: 3,600 m (11800 ft)
Day 3: Pacaymayo-Runcuracay-Sayacmarca-Chaquiccocha-Phuyupatamarca
Today promises to be one of the most amazing days as you hike through the cloud forest, surrounded by lush vegetation and a well-preserved section of the Inca Trail.
After a hearty breakfast, you’ll begin hiking along an uphill trail for about 2 hours until reaching the Runcuracay Pass. Before arriving there, you’ll stop to explore the fascinating Runcuracay ruins, located at the midpoint of the trail.
Next, you’ll descend toward the Incan site of Sayacmarca. It takes about 2 hours to get there, and after exploring the area, you’ll continue hiking for another 30 minutes until reaching the lunch spot. Here, you’ll enjoy a delicious meal and a brief siesta.
After your break, the hike continues toward the third pass, Puyupatamarca. This section of the trail features gently undulating terrain and takes around 2 hours to complete. Once you arrive, our team will set up your tents.
From this viewpoint, you’ll see the peak of Machu Picchu Mountain for the first time. Take time to explore the surroundings near the campsite, relax with a hot tea, and later, enjoy a well-prepared dinner.
Hiking Distance: 10.5 km -7.5 miles (7-8 hours)
Campsites Altitude: Night 3: 3,680 m-12073 ft.
Day 4: Phuyupatamarca-Wiñaywayna- Sun Gate-Machu Picchu
Today, you might have the chance to enjoy a stunning sunrise from the campsite, which is why you’ll wake up early to begin another fantastic day.
After enjoying your delicious breakfast, you’ll explore the Phuyupatamarca archaeological site. Then, we’ll start descending the long stone stairs that lead to Wiñayhuayna. The hike takes approximately 3 hours, and along the way, you’ll pass the impressive Intipata Inca terraces, where you can admire the sacred river and the beautiful valley below.
Once you arrive in Wiñayhuayna, you’ll have lunch and take some time to relax. Here, you’ll also say goodbye to our porters and chef, who’ve accompanied us throughout the journey.
After lunch, we’ll explore the Wiñayhuayna site, also known as the “mini Machu Picchu.” Immediately afterward, we continue walking for about 1 hour and 25 minutes toward the famous Sun Gate.
From the Sun Gate, you’ll enjoy a breathtaking panoramic view of Machu Picchu for the first time. Then, we’ll begin our final descent, getting closer and closer to the majestic Inca city. This is where you’ll take your first postcard-worthy pictures of Machu Picchu.
Shortly after, we’ll exit the archaeological site and board the bus down to Aguas Calientes town. Finally, you’ll check in to your hotel and later enjoy dinner in a designated local restaurant.
Note: If you feel that they have done a great job then you can leave tips for them, like Inca tradition, it will be a nice ceremony to introduce the team to you to shake your hand between you all.
Hiking Distance: 11 km-6.5 miles (6-7)
Campsites Altitude: Night 4: Hotel, 2,050 m-7993 ft.
Day 5: Private Machu Picchu Tour. Return to Cuzco.
Day 5 will be one of the most remarkable and activity-filled days, as you’ll visit one of the New Seven Wonders of the World once again. Therefore, you’ll need to wake up early and board the bus to Machu Picchu Sanctuary with your guide.
Once you arrive, you’ll enjoy a memorable walking tour through the “Lost City of the Incas.” During this time, let yourself be swept away by the magical landscape that surrounds this sacred site. Your English-speaking guide will lead you on a fascinating 3-hour tour, sharing the history and secrets of this extraordinary place.
After the tour, take your final photos and say goodbye to Machu Picchu. Then, return to Aguas Calientes town to prepare for the journey back to Cusco.
Please note: Your train departs at 14:55 or 15:20 aboard the Expedition service. Upon arrival at the Ollantaytambo train station, you’ll meet our private van for the drive back to Cusco. Finally, expect to arrive at your hotel by approximately 7:00 PM.
Meals included: Only breakfast at hotel
Hiking Distance: Walking tour in MP for 3 hours
Upgrade options:
Climb Huayna Picchu for views over the ruins or add an extra day in Machu Picchu.
Vistadom train for 14:55/15:48 PM time to return from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo/Poroy.
Inclusions for 5-Day Inca Trail Adventure to Machu Picchu
Services Included for 5-Day Inca Trail to Machu Picchu
Pre-departure briefing in our office or your hotel. Time to be determined by the company.
- Private Accommodation: 3 nights camping on the Inca Trail trek and 1 night at 3-star hotel.
- As for the camping equipment, we provide dining and kitchen tents equipped with tables and chairs. In addition, you’ll stay in spacious four-person tents, shared by only two people for extra comfort. Moreover, we include a portable toilet tent and all necessary cooking gear, which our team of porters carries throughout the trek.
- Regarding inflatable mattresses, we provide Thermarest air mattresses that are 3 inches thick, which means they add a great deal of comfort for sleeping and resting. However, if you prefer to use your own mattress, you may opt out of this service.
- Foam sleeping mat.
- Pillow, rain ponchos, daypack cover(optional) and duffel bag.
- Transportation service: (Pick-up and drop-off at your hotel) from Cusco to the trailhead and from Ollantaytambo to Cusco.
- The bus ticket is included from Machu Picchu Inca city to Aguas Calientes and from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu City (round trip).
- The train ticket in the PeruRail Expedition or Inca Rail service from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo at the end of your journey.
- Professional Guides: English-speaking, professional, university educated guides.
- Trekking Chef Service:A skilled chef and assistant will prepare delicious, energy-boosting meals throughout your trek.
- Porter Service: Our porters will carry all your equipment, allowing you to travel with just a small daypack.
- Seven (7) kg of Your personal Gear & duffel bag: A personal porter will carry up to 7 kg of your belongings at no extra cost, including your sleeping bag and pad. We will provide a duffel bag for you to pack your gear the night before your tour begins.
- Regarding meals, you will enjoy 4 breakfasts, 4 lunches, 4 dinners, and 4 snacks throughout the trek. Additionally, we offer 3 happy hours to help you relax after a day of hiking. Vegetarian, vegan, and other special menus are also available upon request at no extra cost. All meals are freshly prepared by our experienced chef and our partner hotel staff.
- As for water, we will provide you with drinking water every morning before the hike and once again during lunch. In addition, we highly recommend bringing your own camel bag and some extra energy drinks. After all, staying well hydrated is essential to feeling great and maintaining your energy in the mountains.
- Products for hygiene: You will be provided with a small towel, soap and hand sanitizer before each meal to clean your hands.
- Hot Water Bowls:Daily hot water is provided to refresh and clean your hands and face before and after trekking.
- Entry ticket to Machu Picchu Archeological Site.
- Inca Trail Permit: The Inca Trail cost includes the entrance fee, granting access to multiple archaeological sites along the trail.
The permit includes an entrance to Machu Picchu as well. - Permits and entrance fee for our porters and cooks
- First-Aid Kit: Our guides have received training in first aid from physicians. Our guides will bring an emergency oxygen bottle and radio communication as well.
- Complimentary Storage for Extra Belongings: We offer secure storage in Cusco for any additional items you wish to leave behind during your trek.
- All taxes and booking Fees covered.
Not Included
- Breakfast on the first day.
- Last Day: Lunch in Aguas Calientes.
- Tips for our staff: Tipping is of course 100% voluntary and should only be done if you feel like your guide, porters, and Chef have done an amazing job for you.
- Entrance to the Hot Springs in Aguas Calientes town ($5 USD)
Aditional Upgrades
- Regarding sleeping bags, you can rent one from our company if you do not have your own. Moreover, our sleeping bags are highly effective and durable, designed to protect you from temperatures as low as -18ºC (0ºF). They feature a mummy shape and include a sleeping liner for added warmth and comfort. Furthermore, each bag is thoroughly cleaned after every use and is limited to a maximum of 30 trips to ensure hygiene and quality. (Cost: $20 USD).
- Walking Sticks: You can rent a set from us. ( Cost: $15 USD)
- Huayna Picchu Mountain: $65 USD per person (2-hour round-trip climb).
- Machu Picchu Mountain: $65 USD per person (3-hour round-trip climb).
- Vistadome Train (one way): $40 USD per person.
- Extra Single Tent: $40 USD.
Price for 5-Day Inca Trail Adventure to Machu Picchu
To book the 5-Day Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, an initial payment of $ 200 USD per person is required. The remaining balance can be paid online or in person at our office in Cusco. The deposit can be made via We Travel, Western Union or MoneyGram. If you rent camping and hiking gear, upgrade tours or receive a discount of the total price our sales team will email you the updated remaining balance payable at our Cusco office.
For Group Tour (Shared Service)
Price per Person:
💰 Adults: From $ 945 USD
💰 Students and Children: From $ 905 USD
Note.
- We need a minimum of 3 people to run the tour
- 4+ People, please contact us for a special price
- If you book this tour for more than 2 people, ask for it and get a discount for this tour. “This condition applies only if you are part of a single group (For 3 + people booking at the same time) and does not apply to groups organized by the travel agency.”
- Children 17 years old or less, the discount is $40 USD (To receive the child discount you must send us a copy of the child’s passport).
- For a private tour, please request a quote by emailing incavisiontours@gmail.com or info@incavisiontours.com.
Student Discount:
To qualify for the student discount, one must be 25 years old or less at the time of entering Machu Picchu and you must submit a valid university ID with your booking. The ID must include your name, photo, and expiration date. Cards without an expiration date will not be accepted. Please bring the original student ID with you on the tour to pass the checkpoint.
Payment method
Pay via We Travel
Please note that We Travel charges a fee ranging from 1.5% to 3.9 % (depending on the type of currency used) for online deposits. For payment made via bank transfer a 2% fee will be applied which the client is responsible for. The fee is for the use of We travel’s secure payment gateway. Please, notify incavisiontours@gmail.com or info@incavisiontours.com after payment has made through, We Travel.
Pay via Western Union
Please note that Western Union charges a variable fee for online deposits, depending on your nationality and location. Western union payments should be addressed to the following receiver:
- Full Name: Jaime Cusi Huaman
- Address: APV. Jardines Del Inca C-10, Cusco – Perú
Pay via MoneyGram
Please note that MoneyGram charges a variable fee for online deposits, depending on your nationality and location. MoneyGram payments should be addressed to the following receiver:
- Full Name: Jaime Cusi Huaman
- Address: APV. Jardines Del Inca C-10, Cusco – Perú
Please remember to send us the tracking code (MTCN) in order to pick up the deposit and confirm your booking. Once your payment is made via Western Union or MoneyGram, please notify ours sales team.
In the event you need to cancel your trip, cancellation fees will be assessed as outlined in our cancellation policy. If canceling, you may not transfer your deposit to another person’s trek/tour. See Inca Vision Tours ‘Terms and Cancellation Policy
Optional Upgrades (Need to book in Advance):
There are several optional upgrades you can include in this trip. Below is a quick list of prices.
Huayna Picchu Mountain: $65 USD per person (2-hour round-trip climb).
Machu Picchu Mountain: $65 USD per person (3-hour round-trip climb).
Note: You can only hike one of these mountains, and it must be done after the guided tour of Machu Picchu due to time limitations.
Vistadome Train (one way): $40 USD per person.
Walking Stick: One pair for $15 USD.
Extra Single Tent: $40 USD
Huayna Picchu | Machu Picchu Mountain
Huayna Picchu, the mountain overlooking Machu Picchu, is a 45-minute hike to the top, located next to the Machu Picchu Inca city. The descent can be steep, so it may not be suitable for those afraid of heights. This hike can be done after your Machu Picchu tour.
Machu Picchu Mountain requires a 3-hour round-trip hike. Due to its popularity, reservations should be made at least one month in advance. Please note that weather conditions are beyond our control.
Train: On our four-day Inca Trail journey to Machu Picchu, a return train ticket on the Expeditions Train is included, offering comfort and scenic views. For an enhanced experience, you can upgrade to the Vistadome Train for the return trip, which features larger windows, comfortable seating, a glass roof, and onboard entertainment, including shows and a complimentary snack.
Hotel: If you are doing overnight tours or treks that lead to Machu Picchu, you will be provided accommodation in a 3 star ★★★ hotel (Intipunku hotel or similar) in Aguas Calientes. For upgrades or cancellation, please enter your request in the special request box above. If you are booking a Peru Package Tour for 5 or more days, please contact our sales team.
Room Types: Matrimonial (1 bed for 2 people); Double (2 single beds), Single (1 bed for 1 person). If you wish to add extra beds, please specify in the special request box above
Additional Night in Aguas Calientes: Stay an extra night after your 5-day hike to relax, explore Machu Picchu further, or visit the hot springs. Ideal for those planning to climb Huayna Picchu the next day. Contact us at info@incavisiontours.com or incavisiontours@gmail.com for options and prices.
Trip Highlights-5-Day Inca Trail Adventure to Machu Picchu
Hiking the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu 5 Days- Highlights
- Discover the relaxing 5-Day Inca Trail through the Eyes of the Incas with Us. Check out our reviews on TripAdvisor!
- We are fully licensed by the government to operate Classic Inca Trail hikes.
- Small groups and customized service, from 2 to 10 people maximum.
- Enjoy hotel-to-hotel service, including pick-up and drop-off from your accommodation in Cusco and Aguas Calientes.
- Authentically Peruvian – 100% Locally Owned!.
- We provide premium equipment to ensure a restful and hassle-free adventure.
- Dedicated Porter Included for 7 kg (15 lb) of Your Belongings.
- Inca Trail Trek is known as one of the world’s top ten hikes.
- Starting the Inca Trail at KM 82, you will enjoy multiple Incan sites along the entire trek those which were built by our ancestors in back in the days.
- Conquer the highest Mountain Pass (Dead Woman Pass) surrounded by snowing mountain ranges in the second day of hiking.
- Enjoying panoramic views of Machu Picchu from the Sun Gate” and your camping at the foot of Machu Picchu.
- A private guided tour of the key sites of Machu Picchu, with free time to further explore at your leisure.
- Enjoy beautiful and diverse plants (Orchids) and animals along the Inca Trail.
- Explore the astonishing the lost city of the Incas Machu Picchu.
- Create your unforgettable trip to Machu Picchu via PeruRail or Inca Rail Train.
Why choose Inca Vision Tours?
Inca Vision Tours has been founded in the hands of an experienced mountain tour guide who has worked as an official hiking guide for over 8 years with different companies (commented with countless reviews on TripAdvisor by customers) in Cuzco. Likewise, Jaime has graduated with a degree in Tourism from Cusco University and is an active member of the Association/School of Graduates in Tourism of Peru. He has extensive knowledge of all tourist circuits in the region. He is a mountain man, a proactive professional with initiative and good handling of interpersonal skills, solid moral principles and a high degree of responsibility. Jaime, our manager, has gained enough experience to operate tours around Cuzco on behalf of Inca Vision Tours. But as a team, we have more reasons why you should pick Inca Vision Tours to do your memorable treks or tours.
– Legal and sustainable company
We have legal license permits from our government to operate our day tours and multi-day treks. Also we are a 100% local, sustainable & responsible tourism operator that incorporates universal principles of tourism: Protect the environment and benefit the local communities by respecting their culture and religion.
– Cuzco, the land of the Inca Civilization
We own our operational base in Cuzco and you will experience with INCA VISION TOURS what the Incas had envisioned back in their days, the gateway of historical sites into Machu Picchu.
–Expert office and field team to assist you every day
Our professionals and local expert office staff do all the logistic and operational hard work such as optimizing your time and investment and reducing unnecessary costs, so you get the most of your vacation. Our qualified local tour guides with extensive experience know all the secrets to take you to the most breathtaking places in order to make your vacation unforgettable and take care your safety.
– Fair salary and care for local people
INCA VISION TOURS employs locals as porters, horsemen, chefs, guides and office staff. You can rest assured that all the money you invest in your tour or treks will go directly to the workers who will take you on day tours or hikes. At Inca Vision Tours, we distribute profits equally amongst our members.
– Personalized Itineraries and customized service
Inca Vision Tours has handpicked the top local specialists so you will have peace of mind and an unforgettable trip that meets your exact requirements. You also can request to learn Quechua languages, to participate in our social projects in special campaigns, to attend to special events in special occasions such as the feast of the Sun, Holy Week, the day of Dead and Alive and many more.
– Our Peruvian Cuisine/Gastronomy
Our organic meals from the Andes, coast and jungle of Peru will be prepared by our professional chefs when you participate in our tours and treks (Vegetarian, pescatarian diet and vegan options available.)
– Guaranteed departures tours
All our tours are guaranteed to depart with small or large group sizes. We have done tours with as little as 2 people so you won’t have to worry about your tour being cancelled at the last minute, unless you do it.
– Support the local economy
On top of that, the vast majority of your money will go straight to support and grow local economies. Our company is especially committed to social projects in the remote villages where there is extreme poverty.
– Our best hiking gear, equipment and contingency plan
We have comfortable gear and equipment to do our treks and day tours such as: 4-person tents, cooking gear, kitchen tents, toilet tents, trekking poles, air mattresses, sleeping pads, sleeping bags and everything needed to ensure a great adventure.
What to Bring for 5-Day Inca Trail Adventure to Machu Picchu
Gear List
Important Reminder: For this trek you will need one hold-all or duffel bag, which we will provide. However, you will be carrying your small day pack while hiking. Please pack as light as possible. A light backpack is key to feeling great!
- Passport (very important)
- Valid student card (if you booked as a student).
- Good daypack (25-30Lt): The smaller, the more confortable.(very important)
- 2L Camelbaks or reusable water bottles
- At least 1 liter of water for the first day until lunch, and after that we will supply you with boiled water for the rest of the hike.
- One pair of comfortable hiking boots (lightweight with good soles) and a pair of sandals. (very important)
- Wicking/Hiking Breathable T-shirts (2-3 Short Sleeve T-shirts and 1-2 Long Sleeve T-shirts) and 2- Hiking Pants & Leggings– remember you will always treasure these photos, wear something you love.
- Waterproof jacket/rain poncho, warm jacket, down jacket, fleece or sweater, scarf, wool hat, sunglasses, gloves and 4 pairs of socks
- Small travel towel & Bathing suits for the hot springs (Optional on your own in Aguas Calientes )
- Sun protection cream and sun hat (very important)
- Insect Repellent
- Camera/ Cellphone with extra Power Bank (very important)
- Ear plugs (optional)
- Flashlight or head lamp with spare batteries (very important)
- Extra Snacks (Energy bars, energy drinks, fruits, electrolytes, etc.).
- Extra Money in Cash & Cards for souvenirs, drinks, meals, tips, and emergency situations (can be in Soles or USD).
Other items
- Sleeping bag (or you can rent one from us)
- Sleeping bag liner and inflatable pillow (optional)
- Large plastic bags to organize your items and keep them clean and dry during your tour.
- Trekking poles with rubber tips (or you can rent a pair from us)
Toiletries
- Face moisturizer, toilet paper
- Hand Sanitizer
- Wet wipes
- Toothbrush and toothpaste
- Personal medications prescribed by your doctor (to prevent headaches, stomach issues, heart problems, etc.).
- First aid kit: band aids, moleskin, etc
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