Inca Trail to Machu Picchu 5 Days / 4 Nights

Inca Trail to Machu Picchu 5 Days 4 Nights, is one of the most famous and incredible trekking routes in the world! Inca Trail Trek 5 days 4 nights is one of the most impressive examples of the Inca road were built across the deserts, highlands and jungles stretching from south Colombia throughout Peru, Bolivia, Northern and Central Chile and the Northwest part of Argentina!

The Inca Trail 5 days starts in a typical Andean region and finishes in a jungle region going through cloud forests, Inca tunnels, bridges and snow on the way!!

By booking your Inca Trail to Machu Picchu 5 days 4 nights with Cusco Journeys & Adventure you are choosing the best. Don’t believe us? Check out our reviews on TripAdvisor!

Inca Trail Availability

We offer daily departures on the Inca Trail (excluding February when the trail is closed): Check Availability Here , It is strongly recommended to book your Inca Trail Tours at least 4 months in advance as permits can quickly sell out.

Useful Information

• Starting Altitude – 2720m / 8920ft.
• Highest Altitude – 4217m / 13,780ft.
• Walking Distance – 45km / 26 miles
• Coldest Night – Days 2 and 3 around 0º celsius
• Overall Difficulty – Easy to Moderate

Spaces are extremely limited for the Inca Trail Trek, which fills up quickly each season. Don’t miss this unique opportunity. The lush valleys, towering peaks, and eternal magic of the Andes are calling.

Day by Day Experience

Day 01: Cusco – Km 82 – Llactapata – Wayllabamba

Start your trek at Km 82, hike along the Urubamba River, and explore the Llactapata ruins. Continue your hike to Wayllabamba (3,000 m) where you’ll camp for the night. This section offers beautiful views of the Andes and the Sacred Valley. It’s a gentle start to your adventure.

Day 02: Wayllabamba – Dead Woman’s Pass – Pacaymayo

Ascend to Dead Woman’s Pass (4,215 m), the highest point of the trail. The hike is challenging but rewarding with panoramic views of the Andes. After reaching the top, descend to Pacaymayo (3,600 m) for a well-deserved night of rest. Reflect on conquering this difficult section.

Day 03: Pacaymayo – Runcuracay Pass – Sayacmarca – Phuyupatamarca

Climb to Runcuracay Pass (3,900 m) and visit the Sayacmarca ruins, an ancient Inca site. Continue through lush cloud forests towards Phuyupatamarca (3,680 m), where you’ll camp. Enjoy amazing views of the surrounding mountains and your first glimpse of Machu Picchu.

Day 04: Phuyupatamarca – Wiñay Wayna – Sun Gate – Machu Picchu

Descend to Wiñay Wayna to explore this stunning Inca site. Then, hike to the Sun Gate (Inti Punku) for your first breathtaking view of Machu Picchu. Enjoy a guided tour of the citadel, exploring its history and impressive architecture. Afterward, head to Aguas Calientes for a relaxing evening.

Day 05: Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu – Ollantaytambo – Cusco

Catch an early bus to Machu Picchu to witness the sunrise. Enjoy a guided tour of the Machu Picchu Citadel, exploring its ancient terraces, residential areas, and sacred temples. Afterward, return to Aguas Calientes, take the train to Ollantaytambo, and transfer back to Cusco.

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1: Cusco – Piscacucho – Patallacta – Wayllabamba

Today has a relatively relaxed start for the Inca Trail and the walking is easy going to help you settle in to the trek. Beginning at Kilometer (Km) 82 (2,720 m/ 8,922 ft), we slowly make our way along the banks of the Urubamba River with great views of the snow-capped peak of Mount Veronica (5,900 m/19,000 ft).

There will be a variety of native plant and birdlife around us during this stretch. As we continue to follow the trail along fairly flat terrain, we arrive in the small community of Miskay. From here we will gradually ascend for 2 hours and finally see, from the tallest part of an overlook, the extensive Inca city of Llactapata (Patallacta).

You will be able to view over the extensive Inca ruins of Llactapata (also known as Patallacta on some maps). Llactapata means ‘upper town’ in Quechua and was first discovered by Hiram Bingham in 1911 and was primarily an agricultural station used to supply Machu Picchu with maize, the staple crop of the Incas.

The settlement comprised over one hundred buildings, houses for the workers and soldiers, including five baths. We will continue  the Inca Trail hike on a path that follows the left bank of the river up to the small village of Wayllabamba (3,000m). The name in Quechua means ‘grassy plain’.

We will spend the night here depending on the speed of the group. (This is the last place along the trek that you can buy snacks and drinks).

• Meals: Lunch/Dinner
• Distance Covered: 12 kilometers
• Approximate Walking Time: 5 -6 hours
• Lowest elevation: 2,600 m/ 8,525 ft
• Highest elevation: 2,950 m/9,676 ft
• Difficulty: moderate

Day 2: Wayllabamba – Dead Woman’s Pass – Pacaymayo

After a hearty breakfast, we’ll continue our journey along the Classic Inca Trail, ascending from Wayllabamba as we follow the left bank of the Llulluchayoc River. Our first stop will be Tres Piedras (Three Stones), where a stream, named after the Huayruro tree, flows through the area. The Huayruro tree is known for its distinctive red and black seeds, which are often used as ornaments.

Many of the porters from the Ollantaytambo district are known as Huayruros, a name derived from their traditional red and black ponchos. As we progress along the Inca Trail, we’ll enter a stunning area called Llulluchapampa, which is renowned for its dramatic landscape.

We’ll then continue our ascent for another 2 hours, reaching the first and highest pass of the trail, Abra de Warmiwañusca (Dead Woman’s Pass), standing at 4,215 m/13,829 ft. This is the most challenging section of the Inca Trail hike, and hikers are exposed to the full force of the Andean elements—first enduring the intense sun and then, as we approach the pass, the biting cold winds.

Once at the summit, hikers can take a moment to celebrate having conquered the Dead Woman’s Pass, marking the completion of the most difficult part of the trek to Machu Picchu.

The descent from the pass is steep but manageable, and we will follow the trail along the left side of the valley floor. Our second evening will be spent camping at Pacaymayo, a peaceful site where we can rest and reflect on the day’s accomplishments.

• Meals: Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner
• Distance Covered: 10 kilometers
• Approximate Walking Time: 6 -7 hours
• Highest elevation: 4,215 m/13,821 ft
• Difficulty: Challenge

Day 3: Pacaymayo – Runcurakay Pass – Phuyupatamarca

After breakfast, we continue our hike up the opposite side of the valley as we make our way towards the second pass on the trek. Along the way we have fantastic views of waterfalls and flora and fauna all around.

Half way up we stop to have a quick visit to the Inca site of Runcuraccay (an Inca watchtower) and to catch our breath before we continue our climb to the pass (3,900 meters). From the pass we once again begin our descent heading back in to the cloud forest.

After about an hour we arrive to Sayacmarca, one of the most beautiful ruins on the Inca Trail where we´ll have a guided tour for about an hour. From Sayacmarca we continue on down to our lunch spot at Chaquicocha (dry lake) where you can see some of the fantastic flora and fauna the Inca Trail has to offer.

From Chaquicocha onwards we walk along Inca flat (gradual inclines) as we make our way towards our final campsite Phuyupatamarca (3680 meters). This area of the Inca Trail is stunning with beautiful views of the Vilcabamba mountain range in the distance and abundant flora and fauna all around.

It´s about 2 hours walk to our campsite and on arrival we´ll get our first view of Machu Picchu mountain and the Urubamba river far below us. We´ll settle in to our campsite and have the chance to explore the Inca site and as the sun goes down we can enjoy the beautiful sunset over the snow-capped peaks.

• Meals: Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner
• Distance Covered: 11 km
• Approximate Walking Time: 6 -7 hours
• Highest elevation: 3,900m / 12,792 ft
• Difficulty: Challenge

Day 4: Phuyupatamarca – Wiñay Wayna – Machu Picchu – Aguas Calientes.

Today, we will have the chance to enjoy one of the most spectacular sunrises on the Inca Trail, weather permitting. After breakfast, you´ll have a guided tour of Phuyupatamarca. We will then start our way down the long descending stone steps to Wiñay Wayna 2,650m/8,692ft, where we will have lunch.

As we near the bottom of the staircase, we will visit the site of Intipata (Terraces of the Sun). This site has beautiful views of the Sacred Valley and was an important agricultural site for Machu Picchu. After Intipata, we will continue to Wiñay Wayna, the archaeological site that is the largest on the Inca Trail besides Machu Picchu.

It consists of an impressive complex made up of an agricultural center, with numerous terraces, a religious sector, and an urban sector. This site offers spectacular views over the already narrower Urubamba River valley. After our visit, we will have our last lunch with the porters.

Following, it is a tradition on the Inca Trail to have a thanking ceremony for all the hard work the porters and cooks have provided. If you wish, you may leave a tip for them at this time. After we´ve said goodbye to our team, we will carry on to the Sun Gate (Inti Punku), where we will get our first views of Machu Picchu.

It takes about an hour of hiking along a trail of flat stones in the highland jungle to reach the Sun Gate. From there, it is about another hour down to the site itself. Upon arrival, we´ll have a chance to enjoy the sunset and to see views of Machu Picchu without crowds, before taking the bust to your hotel in Aguas Calientes.

*Private groups can arrange to camp this evening, instead of staying at a hotel

• Meals: Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner
• Accommodations: Hotel Vista Machu Picchu or similar.
• Distance Covered: 11 km (614 miles)
• Approximate Walking Time: 6 hours
• Highest elevation: 3,680 m/12,033 ft
• Difficulty: Moderate

Day 5: Aguas calientes – Machu Picchu – Ollantaytambo – Cusco. 

Begin your day early with breakfast at your hotel before boarding one of the first buses to Machu Picchu, ensuring you arrive in time to witness the breathtaking sunrise over the Lost City of the Incas—an unforgettable experience during your Machu Picchu trip.

Upon arrival, your expert guide will lead you on a two-hour guided tour of Machu Picchu, taking you through the most significant areas of the Machu Picchu Citadel. During the tour, your guide will explain the rich history, impressive architecture, and the sacred purpose of this ancient site. Explore the three main sectors: the agricultural terraces, the residential area, and the religious sector, gaining insight into the thriving Inca civilization that once flourished in this awe-inspiring mountain retreat.

After absorbing the incredible views, take the bus back to Aguas Calientes for some leisure time. You’ll have the opportunity to enjoy lunch (not included), explore the charming town, visit the local market, stop by the museum, or even relax in the hot springs.

In the afternoon, board your train for a scenic ride along the Urubamba River through the stunning Sacred Valley. Keep an eye out for the magnificent Wiñay Wayna ruins, perched high on the mountainside, as the train winds through the narrow canyon.

After a two-hour journey, you’ll arrive at Ollantaytambo, where a private bus will be waiting to transfer you back to Cusco. Upon arrival, we will drop you off at your hotel, concluding your unforgettable guided trip to Machu Picchu.

Important Note: The Machu Picchu archaeological site is separate from Huayna Picchu and Machu Picchu Mountain. If you wish to hike either of these mountains, a separate permit is required. If you’re interested in adding this adventure to your Inca Trail guided tour, please let us know in advance so we can arrange the permits for you.

• Included Meal: Breakfast
• Lowest Elevation: 2,040 m / 6,691 ft
• Highest Elevation: 2,440 m / 8,052 ft

Includes:

• Pre-trek briefing with your Inca trail to Machu Picchu 5 Days 4 Nights tour guide.
• Collection from your hotel in the morning of the trek departure.
• Private Transportation by bus to Km 82 (starting point of the trek).
• Entry fee to Machu Picchu – Circuit 3 (day 5).
• English speaking, experienced professional guide.
• Comfortable tents (sleeping 2 people in a 4 person tent).
• All camping equipment such as: dining tent, table, chairs, kitchen tent and toilet tent.
• Bus ticket from Machu Picchu – Aguas Calientas to Machu Picchu and return.
• Train ticket from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo.
• Private transport from Ollantaytambo to your hotel in Cusco.
• Celebration dinner.
• Hotel in Aguas Calientes with private room and bathroom.
• Basic foam sleeping mattress.
• Private guided tour within Machu Picchu.
• Excellent Meals (4 Breakfasts, 4 Lunches, 4 Dinners) – (Vegetarian, vegan or special diet meals upon request).
• Tea time before dinner (tea, coffee, coco, biscuits, popcorn).
• Boiled water provided from 2nd day (for drinking).
• Wake up coca tea in your tent.
• Buckets of hot water for washing in your tent every day.
• Biodegradable soap and hand cleansing gel.
• Cusco Journeys & Adventure uses walkie-talkies on all treks.
• Oxygen Tank & First aid kit.
• All local taxes.

Not include:

• Sleeping Bag (Can be hired from us).
• Breakfast on Day 1 and lunch and dinner on Day 5.
• Entrance to Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain $ 75.00.
• Extra energy snacks.
• Sleping Bag.
• Walking Stick.
• Travel Insurance.
• **Tips for the crew (Porters, chef and guide).

What you need to take

Inca Trail 5 Days 4 Nights is like any other high altitude trek, so it is essential to be well prepared. As it begins in the dead of night morning, consider to pack the following Items:

• A good day pack: such as Eagle Creek Afar Backpack (Appropriate pack to carry your personal belongings.)
• Original passport.
• Travel insurance.
• Lighter trekking boots (with good ankle support).
• 3 pairs of trekking pants (not jeans), 1 hiking, 1 cotton–which is just enough. 
• Layers for variable temperatures especially at night.
• 1 rain jacket.
• 1 warm/winter jacket (Thermals: wool socks/gloves, scarf and woolen hat for cold nights).
• 4 pairs of underwear.
• 4 shirts, 2 long sleeve shirts.
• 1 good sleeping bag. 
• Iron tablets and pills for altitude sickness. 
• Sun protection cream (SPF 35 or higher recommended).
• Bug spray with 30% DEET.
• Re-usable plastic or metal water container or a hydration pack such as Camel-back.
• Water (Only for first day of the hike, as we will provide you with water throughout the rest of the hike).
• Camera and film.
• A headlamp to navigate camp in the evenings and pre-dawn mornings with spare batteries
• Bandages or moleskin.
• Flip flops to change into at night. 
• Toiletries.
• Medication.
• Plastic bags for dirty and wet clothes.
• Something to read in the evenings.
• Extra money for drinks.
• Emergency money at least 300-450 extra soles (USD$ 220).

The Inca Trail to Machu Picchu 5 Days 4 Nights can be started any day of the week from March through January. We do not operate this itinerary in February due to the rainy season and route maintenance

Group Price: $939 Per person

*** Guaranteed to operate with just three guests, this small-group tour offers a truly personalized travel experience.

Private Price:

Private tours are available and priced by party size.

• 2 Trekkers: $1419 per person

• 3 Trekkers: $1269 per person

• 4 Trekkers: $1039 per person

• 5 or more Trekkers: $899 per person

Important: Price includes up to 6 kilos of your personal belongings to be carried by the mules (NO need of extra Porter hire!).

Discounts:

• 18 to 25 years old: $25 USD. Information required on student card: name of university, student name, photo of student, expiration date etc. A copy of the card at booking is required & government approval for discount.
• Under 18 years old: $25 USD. Please send us a copy of your passport at the time of booking.
• Under 11 years old: $30 USD.  Please send us a copy of your passport at the time of booking.

Optional Extras (Need to Book in Advance):

• Machu Picchu Mountain climbing:  USD 75.00 (Need to book in advance).
• Huayna Picchu Mountain climbing: USD 75.00 (Need to book in advance).

Upgrades:

Hotel Upgrades:

• InkaTerra (5 star hotel) – US $325 per person per night (double occupancy).
• Hotel el Mapil (4 star hotel) – US $105 per person per night (double occupancy).
• Santuario Hotel  (3+ star hotel) – US $65 per person per night (double occupancy).

Train Upgrades:

• Vistadome train -US $65 for trip from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo (Need to book in advance).
• Hiram Bingham train (deluxe) -US $585 for trip from Aguas Calientes to Poroy (Need to book in advance).

Rentals:

• Hiking poles – US$20.00
• Sleeping bag – US$25.00
• Private Tent – US$30.00

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) – Inca Trail To Machu Picchu  

1.- What is the Inca Trail?

The Inca Trail is a world-famous trekking route that leads directly to Machu Picchu. Using an Inca Trail to Machu Picchu map, hikers can see how the trail follows an ancient Inca road system, starting at Km 82 and finishing at the Sun Gate before entering the citadel.

2.- Do I need a guide or porters?

Yes, all travelers hiking the Inca Trail must do so with a licensed guide and an authorized tour operator. Porters are required to carry camping equipment and supplies, making hiking Inca Trail to Machu Picchu safer and more enjoyable for travelers.

3.- How difficult is the Inca Trail?

The Inca Trail is considered a moderate to challenging trek. It includes steep ascents, stone steps, and high-altitude sections, especially on the second day. Proper preparation is important for anyone planning hiking Inca Trail to Machu Picchu.

4.- How many hours will I hike each day?

Hikers typically walk between 6 and 9 hours per day during the first three days. On the final day, the hike is shorter, allowing time to reach Machu Picchu early in the morning.

5.- What is the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu distance?

The classic Inca Trail to Machu Picchu distance is approximately 42 kilometers (26 miles). According to the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu map, this distance is covered over four days, passing through mountains, cloud forests, and archaeological sites.

6.- What are the requirements for the Inca Trail?

Travelers must be at least 10 years old, be in good physical condition, and have a valid passport with at least six months of validity. Passport details are required for permits and Inca Trail to Machu Picchu tickets.

7.- What is the altitude on the Inca Trail?

The trail begins at around 2,800 meters (9,186 ft) and reaches a maximum altitude of 4,215 meters (13,780 ft) at Dead Woman’s Pass. Acclimatization is essential when hiking Inca Trail to Machu Picchu.

8.- Is altitude sickness common?

Altitude sickness can affect some travelers, especially those who do not acclimatize beforehand. Spending time in Cusco or the Sacred Valley helps reduce the risk before starting the trek.

9.- When is the best time to hike the Inca Trail?

The best months for hiking Inca Trail to Machu Picchu are from May to September, during the dry season. Permits are limited and tend to sell out quickly during this period.

10.- How far in advance should I book Inca Trail to Machu Picchu tickets?

It is highly recommended to book Inca Trail to Machu Picchu tickets at least 6 months in advance during high season and 3 months in advance during low season, as availability is very limited.

11.- Do I need a permit to hike the Inca Trail?

Yes, an official government-issued permit is required for all hikers. These permits are included with Inca Trail to Machu Picchu tickets and are linked directly to your passport information.

12.- Can I climb Huayna Picchu?

Yes, Huayna Picchu can be climbed with an additional permit booked in advance. This hike offers panoramic views of Machu Picchu and is a popular add-on after completing the Inca Trail.

13.- What should I expect in terms of food and water?

During the trek, nutritious meals are provided daily, including fresh and local ingredients. Purified water is available from the second day onward, ensuring comfort while hiking Inca Trail to Machu Picchu.

Make the Most of Your Peru Adventure with Cusco Journeys

At Cusco Journeys, we’re committed to making your adventure in Peru memorable, safe, and easy to enjoy. This brief guide includes the most important details to review before starting your trek or tour — from altitude preparation and luggage management to Machu Picchu entry and health tips.

Take a moment to read it carefully; it will help you get ready and experience the magic of the Andes with comfort and confidence.

Briefing Before the Trek

All pre-trek briefings are personally conducted at your hotel in Cusco around 5:00 pm, one or two day before your trek or tour begins. The meeting lasts approximately 30 to 45 minutes and is an essential part of your preparation.

During this session, our guide will go over the itinerary in detail, provide your duffel bag, and answer any final questions to ensure you’re fully prepared for your adventure.

Acclimatization in Cusco

It’s very important to be well acclimated to the altitude before starting any trek. Cusco lies at 3,400 meters (11,150 ft) above sea level, and your body needs time to adjust to the thinner air.

We recommend that you arrive in Cusco at least 2 or 3 days before your trek begins to prevent altitude sickness and to enjoy your trip without discomfort.

What to Do Before Your Trek

During your acclimatization days, take it easy and explore some nearby attractions:

• Cusco City Tour: Discover the Main Square, the Cathedral, and the Temple of the Sun (Qoricancha).
• Sacred Valley Tour: Visit Pisac, Ollantaytambo, and the famous Maras Salt Mines.
• Moray & Maras Excursion: Learn about ancient Inca agricultural techniques.
• Q’eswachaka Bridge Tour: Experience the last Inca handwoven bridge still used today.
• Rainbow Mountain Tour: Hike to one of Peru’s most stunning natural wonders, famous for its vibrant, multi-colored slopes.

These short tours are perfect for getting used to the altitude while discovering the region’s rich history.

Trek Balance Payment (in Cusco)

If you have an outstanding balance, please make the payment at least two days before your trek or tour. Otherwise, your reservation cannot be confirmed.

Whenever possible, we kindly ask you to settle the remaining balance in cash (USD or Peruvian Soles) during your briefing session. There are several ATMs along Avenida Sol where you can withdraw both currencies.

You may also pay by credit/debit card or PayPal, either online or in person; however, please note that a 5% service fee will be applied by our payment gateways (Niubiz and PayPal).
Unfortunately, we are unable to accept bank checks or traveler’s checks for balance payments.

Duffel Bag or Canvas Case

You’ll receive a duffel bag or canvas case during the briefing. Size: 60 × 24 × 22 cm (23.6 × 9.45 × 8.66 in), Maximum weight: 6 kg / 13 lb, including clothes and personal items.

Our team of porters will carry your bag throughout the trek and hand it back to you at each camp. Remember that this limit includes your sleeping bag and any personal belongings you wish to take.

Can I store my luggage at your office?

Absolutely! During your trip, you may store your main luggage safely at our office (arrange it with us during your briefing or by email) or at your hotel, both free of charge.

Any items you won’t need during the trek can remain at your hotel — most hotels offer secure luggage storage. Please avoid leaving valuables in your bags; instead, place them in the hotel safe and request an itemized receipt, as many insurance companies require this in case of loss.

For added security, you can also store important items such as credit cards in a sealed and signed envelope.

Machu Picchu Entrance Circuits and Schedule

Machu Picchu now operates with specific timed entries and fixed circuits to preserve the site and ensure an enjoyable experience for all visitors.

Main Circuits

• Circuit 1: Upper viewpoints and panoramic terraces (Include)
• Circuit 2: Central area of the citadel
• Circuit 3: Lower sector and agricultural terraces (Include)

For our Inca Trail groups, the standard visit is usually Circuit 3, around 8:00 or 9:00 a.m., depending on ticket availability and government regulations. After completing your route, park rangers will guide you toward the exit — re-entry is not allowed.

If you wish to explore another route or stay longer, you can request an additional entrance ticket (subject to availability and extra cost).

Pick-Up of Guests

All pick-ups are made from your hotel within Cusco City. We recommend staying in the historic center for easier access. Our guide will confirm your pick-up time one day before the tour, but please note that it may vary by 30 to 45 minutes depending on traffic and hotel locations.

Cusco is an ancient city with narrow, cobbled streets, and some hotels or Airbnbs may not have direct vehicle access. If your accommodation is in such an area, we’ll coordinate the closest possible meeting point for your convenience.

Return from Machu Picchu to Cusco

Returning from Machu Picchu involves several steps, but don’t worry — everything is included in your tour. After visiting Machu Picchu, you’ll take a 25-minute bus down to Aguas Calientes (buses operate on a first-come, first-served basis).

From there, you’ll board a train to Ollantaytambo; your guide will provide the tickets and indicate your departure time. Please arrive at the platform 30 minutes before departure.

The train ride takes about 1 hour and 45 minutes, followed by a 2-hour bus journey back to Cusco City.

Group Tours

Our group tours bring together travelers of different ages and fitness levels. Everyone can walk at their own pace, and our guide will manage the group so that all participants enjoy the experience comfortably.

If changes to the itinerary are needed, the guide will decide after consulting with the group.

Strikes and Demonstrations

Occasionally, strikes or protests may occur in Peru, which can affect roads or train schedules. In these cases, Cusco Journeys will make every effort to maintain your itinerary or adjust departure times if needed. Your safety always comes first, and all decisions will be made to protect it.

Lost Objects

You are responsible for your personal belongings throughout the tour. Please be mindful of where you leave your items and make sure to remove everything from our vans, tents, and restaurants after each stop. Avoid leaving anything unattended during the hike, as other trekkers or staff might mistake it for lost property.