Vilcabamba Trek to Machu Picchu 6 Days / 5 Nights
The Vilcabamba Trek to Machu Picchu 6 Days 5 Nights is an off-the-beaten-path trekking adventure in the Peruvian Andes, offering an alternative route to Machu Picchu through the remote Vilcabamba mountain region.
This Vilcabamba Trek in Peru follows historic Inca trails through one of the most historically significant areas of Cusco, once home to the last refuge of the Inca resistance. It is an excellent choice for hikers looking for a challenging multi-day trek beyond the traditional routes to Machu Picchu.
Throughout this six-day hiking adventure, you will cross high mountain passes, Andean valleys, cloud forests, and subtropical landscapes while exploring archaeological sites such as Vitcos and Ñustahispana.
The route also passes through traditional Andean communities where Quechua culture, farming, and livestock practices remain part of everyday life.
Accompanied by experienced local guides, you will discover the history, natural diversity, and archaeological heritage of Vilcabamba before completing your journey with a guided visit to Machu Picchu, one of the most remarkable alternative treks in Cusco.
The Vilcabamba Trek to Machu Picchu 6 Days / 5 Nights is a challenging alternative trek from Cusco that combines high-altitude hiking, Inca archaeological sites, and remote Andean landscapes. Starting with a scenic drive through the Sacred Valley, the journey continues toward Huancacalle and the historic Vilcabamba region, where you will explore ancient settlements and walk along sections of the traditional Inca road network. During this 6-day Vilcabamba trekking tour, you will cross mountain passes above 4,000 meters, discover traditional communities, and experience landscapes ranging from high Andean grasslands to subtropical forests. The package includes four nights of camping and one hotel night in Aguas Calientes before your guided Machu Picchu visit. It is a rewarding option for travelers seeking an authentic Peru trekking experience combining adventure, Inca history and cultural discovery. Travel through the Sacred Valley and cross Abra Málaga Pass at 4,315 meters. Continue to Huancacalle to explore Vitcos and Ñustahispana before spending the night at camp. Follow the ancient Vilcabamba Trail along sections of the Inca road network. Cross a mountain pass at approximately 4,000 meters, enjoy views of Pumasillo Peak, and descend to Pumachaca village for camping. Ascend to Pillaupata Pass and explore the Inca Wasi Valley and Racachaca. Continue toward Hatun Pampa at approximately 4,100 meters, where you will camp surrounded by mountain scenery. Cross Yanacasa, Tullu Tacaca, and Asutina mountain passes while enjoying views of Yanacocha Lake. Descend through the cloud forest to Mutuypata for your overnight campsite. Descend through Yanatile Canyon, passing tropical vegetation, fruit orchards, and coffee plantations. Continue to the Hydroelectric Plant and take the train to Aguas Calientes for a hotel overnight stay. Travel by bus to Machu Picchu for a guided visit of approximately 2–3 hours. Return to Aguas Calientes, take the train to Ollantaytambo, and continue by road to Cusco.
Highlight of the Day: Cross the impressive Abra Málaga Pass and explore the archaeological sites of Vitcos and Ñustahispana, important places connected to the history of the last Inca resistance. We begin our Vilcabamba Trek from Cusco with an early departure at approximately 4:30 AM. Our private transport travels through the Sacred Valley, passing Ollantaytambo before climbing to Abra Málaga Pass at 4,315 m (14,157 ft). From here, we descend toward Chaullay and continue by road to Huancacalle. After arriving, we explore the archaeological sites of Vitcos and Ñustahispana, important places connected to the history of the last Incas of Vilcabamba. This first day introduces the remote landscapes and historical heritage that make this alternative trek to Machu Picchu different from the more frequently traveled routes. We spend the night at our campsite in Huancacalle. Highlight of the Day: Follow an ancient Inca road through the Vilcabamba mountains and enjoy panoramic views of the snow-capped Pumasillo Peak. After breakfast, we continue along the historic Vilcabamba Trail, following sections of an ancient Inca road. The route climbs for approximately four hours toward a mountain pass at around 4,000 m (13,123 ft), where the surrounding mountains offer impressive views of the Pumasillo range. We then descend into a greener landscape, where the vegetation gradually changes as we enter the high jungle. Orchids, ferns and streams accompany parts of the trail as we make our way toward Pumachaca, a small Andean village located at approximately 3,000 m (9,843 ft). Our campsite is set near the village, where we enjoy dinner and rest before continuing the Vilcabamba Trek the following day. Highlight of the Day: Explore the Inca Wasi Valley and Racachaca while following ancient Inca pathways toward the highland campsite at Hatun Pampa. We leave Pumachaca after breakfast and continue along the Qhapaq Ñan, the extensive network of roads built by the Incas. The trail gradually climbs toward Pillaupata Pass, at approximately 4,000 m (13,123 ft). Along the way, we explore the archaeological area of Inca Wasi Valley, where the remains offer a glimpse into the Inca presence in this remote region. After the visit, we continue toward Racachaca Valley, where we stop for lunch. In the afternoon, the route climbs toward Hatun Pampa, reaching approximately 4,100 m (13,451 ft). We establish camp in this high mountain area and enjoy dinner surrounded by the landscapes of the Vilcabamba range. Highlight of the Day: Cross high mountain passes and discover Yanacocha Lake before descending through the beautiful cloud forests of Vilcabamba. Today’s route crosses some of the highest sections of the Vilcabamba Trek. After breakfast, we climb toward Yanacasa Pass, at approximately 4,200 m (13,780 ft), where the mountain scenery opens toward the surrounding peaks and Yanacocha Lake. We continue across the highlands toward Tullu Tacaca Pass, at a similar elevation, and pass another lake located near the foot of a glacier. The trail then leads toward Asutina Pass before beginning a long descent into the cloud forest. As the elevation decreases, the landscape changes from open mountain terrain to greener vegetation. By the end of the day, we reach Mutuypata, at approximately 2,950 m (9,678 ft), where we set up camp and rest after a demanding day of trekking. Highlight of the Day: Descend through the tropical vegetation of Yanatile Canyon before continuing toward Aguas Calientes, the town at the foot of Machu Picchu. After breakfast, we continue descending toward the Yanatile River through a warmer landscape with tropical vegetation. Along the way, we may see banana and pomegranate plants as well as coffee plantations. The walk covers approximately 7 km (4.3 miles) and takes around three hours to reach Yanatile. From there, we continue by transport to the Hydroelectric Plant. The train from Hydroelectric to Aguas Calientes is not included in the tour price and must be arranged and paid for separately. Alternatively, you may walk along the railway route to Aguas Calientes. Upon arrival, you will have free time to rest and explore the town. If you wish, you can visit the Aguas Calientes hot springs. This is an optional activity, and the entrance fee is paid separately. In the evening, we gather for a farewell dinner before spending the night at a hotel in Aguas Calientes. Highlight of the Day: Explore the famous Machu Picchu ruins with a guided visit before returning to Cusco by train and private transport. We start the day with breakfast at the hotel before taking the bus up to Machu Picchu. Once inside the archaeological sanctuary, our guide leads a visit of approximately two to three hours, explaining the history and significance of its agricultural terraces, residential areas and religious sectors. After the guided visit, we take the bus back down to Aguas Calientes. You will have free time for lunch or to explore the town before boarding the return train to Ollantaytambo. The departure is generally scheduled for approximately 2:30 PM or 3:20 PM, depending on the confirmed train service. From Ollantaytambo, our transport takes you back to Cusco. If you are interested in visiting the Wiñay Wayna ruins, please note that this is a separate archaeological site and is not part of the standard itinerary. Important: Entrance tickets to Huayna Picchu Mountain or Machu Picchu Mountain are not included in the standard Machu Picchu entrance ticket. These require separate reservations and are subject to availability.
The Vilcabamba Trek passes through high mountain areas, remote Andean communities and warmer cloud forest landscapes. Weather conditions can change throughout the route, so we recommend packing suitable clothing and essential trekking equipment.
We offer flexible departure dates and operate the Vilcabamba Trek 6 Days / 5 Nights daily, subject to Machu Picchu permit availability. ✔ Small-group departures with personalized service throughout the trek. ⚠️Limited availability due to Machu Picchu permits. Early booking is highly recommended. A more personalized experience with flexible pacing and tailored logistics. 2 Trekkers: $1309 per person * All our tours are priced in US dollars. To confirm your reservation, a 40% deposit is required. We accept Visa, MasterCard, American Express, Diners Club, PayPal, and bank transfers. Please note that online credit card and PayPal payments are subject to a 5% service fee. The Vilcabamba Trek to Machu Picchu is a six-day trekking adventure through the remote mountains of Cusco, following ancient Inca roads and visiting archaeological sites connected to the last Inca stronghold. The route crosses high mountain passes, Andean valleys and cloud forest landscapes before reaching Aguas Calientes and Machu Picchu. It is an alternative route for travelers looking for a quieter trekking experience in Peru. The Vilcabamba Trek is considered a challenging trek because it includes several long walking days, steep ascents, high mountain passes and changing weather conditions. Some sections reach elevations of approximately 4,200 m (13,780 ft), where the altitude can make physical activity more demanding. Good physical preparation and previous hiking experience are recommended. The route reaches high mountain elevations, with several passes located between approximately 4,000 m and 4,200 m (13,123–13,780 ft). These sections offer views of the surrounding Vilcabamba mountain range and Andean landscapes. The trek later descends into warmer cloud forest areas before continuing toward Aguas Calientes and Machu Picchu. Yes. We recommend spending at least two or three days in Cusco or another high-altitude destination before starting the Vilcabamba Trek. Allowing your body time to adjust can help you prepare for the demanding mountain sections. Avoid strenuous activity during your first days at altitude and consult a healthcare professional if you have concerns about altitude sickness. During this trekking route, you visit important archaeological places associated with the history of the last Incas, including Vitcos and Ñustahispana near Huancacalle. The itinerary also includes the archaeological area of Inca Wasi Valley. These sites offer insight into the historical importance of the Vilcabamba region and its ancient Inca road network. No. The train ticket from the Hydroelectric Plant to Aguas Calientes is not included in the Vilcabamba Trek package. Travelers must arrange and pay for this train service separately. Alternatively, you can walk along the railway route to Aguas Calientes, where you will spend the night before visiting Machu Picchu. No. Visiting the Aguas Calientes hot springs is optional and is not part of the included tour services. If you wish to visit, you can use your free time on Day 5, after arriving in town. The entrance fee must be paid separately, so remember to bring swimwear and some extra cash. The Vilcabamba Trek includes four nights of camping in the mountains and one hotel night in Aguas Calientes. Camping equipment and sleeping mats are provided according to the tour inclusions, while a sleeping bag is not included. After completing the trek, you stay in Aguas Calientes before visiting Machu Picchu on the final day. Yes, the Vilcabamba Trek is worth considering if you enjoy challenging hikes, remote mountain landscapes and Inca history. Unlike more frequently traveled routes, this trek takes you through less-visited archaeological sites and traditional Andean communities. It also offers a varied experience, from high mountain passes to cloud forests, before reaching Machu Picchu. The Vilcabamba Trek stands out for its connection to the history of the last Incas and its remote location in the Cusco mountains. Along the route, you explore archaeological sites such as Vitcos, Ñustahispana and Inca Wasi Valley while crossing diverse Andean landscapes. It is a good alternative for travelers looking for a less conventional route to Machu Picchu.
At Cusco Journeys, we’re committed to making your adventure in Peru memorable, safe and enjoyable. This guide covers the most important details to review before starting your trek or tour, from altitude acclimatization and luggage arrangements to Machu Picchu entrance circuits and travel tips. Please take a moment to read this information carefully. It will help you prepare for your journey and enjoy your adventure in the Andes with greater comfort and confidence. All pre-trek briefings are held personally at your hotel in Cusco, usually around 5:00 p.m., one or two days before your trek or tour begins. The meeting lasts approximately 30–45 minutes and is an important part of your preparation. During the briefing, your guide will review the itinerary in detail, provide your duffel bag, confirm the main arrangements, and answer any final questions to help you prepare for your adventure. It is important to allow enough time to acclimatize before starting your trek. Cusco is located at approximately 3,400 meters (11,150 feet) above sea level, and your body needs time to adjust to the altitude. We recommend arriving in Cusco at least two or three days before your trek begins. This gives you time to rest, adjust to the altitude, and explore the region before your adventure. During your acclimatization days, take it easy and explore some of the nearby attractions: These tours offer opportunities to discover the region’s history and landscapes while allowing time to adjust to the altitude. Choose activities according to how you feel during your first days in Cusco. If you have an outstanding balance, please arrange payment at least two days before your trek or tour begins, according to your booking conditions. Whenever possible, we recommend paying the remaining balance in cash, in US dollars (USD) or Peruvian soles (PEN), during your briefing. Several ATMs are available along Avenida El Sol, where you can withdraw money in either currency, depending on the machine. You may also pay by credit or debit card or through PayPal, either online or in person. Please note that a 5% processing fee applies to payments made through our payment gateways, Niubiz and PayPal. Unfortunately, we cannot accept bank checks or traveler’s checks for balance payments. You will receive a duffel bag or canvas case during your briefing. The dimensions and weight allowance are: Our trekking team will transport your duffel bag along the route and deliver it to you at each campsite. Please remember that the 6 kg limit includes your sleeping bag and any other personal items you wish to pack. Absolutely! You can arrange to store your main luggage free of charge at our office or your hotel during the trek. Please coordinate this with us during your briefing or by email. Any items you will not need during the trek can remain at your hotel, as most hotels offer luggage storage. We recommend keeping valuables out of stored bags and placing them in your hotel safe. If you use the hotel safe, request a receipt or written record of the items stored, where available, and check your travel insurance conditions. For additional security, keep important documents and valuables, such as credit cards, in a secure place. Machu Picchu has designated entrance times and circuits to manage visitor access and protect the archaeological site. Main Circuits Visitors can choose from three main routes: Circuit 1 covers the upper viewpoints and panoramic terraces, Circuit 2 explores the main archaeological areas of the citadel and Circuit 3 visits the lower sector and selected Inca structures. For our Vilcabamba Trek 6 Days / 5 Nights, Circuit 2 is our priority because it offers a comprehensive visit to Machu Picchu. If Circuit 2 tickets are unavailable, we will check availability for Circuit 3 as an alternative. All tickets are subject to availability and must be confirmed in advance. The final circuit and entry time depend on the ticket secured for your visit. Re-entry is generally not permitted once you exit the site. Pick-ups are arranged from hotels within Cusco city. We recommend staying in the historic center for convenient access. Our guide will confirm your pick-up time one day before the tour, although the schedule may vary by approximately 30–45 minutes depending on traffic and hotel locations. Cusco is an old city with narrow, cobbled streets, and some hotels or Airbnb accommodations may not have direct vehicle access. If your accommodation is located on a street where vehicles cannot reach the entrance, we will coordinate the nearest convenient meeting point with you. The return journey from Machu Picchu involves several stages. After your visit, you will take a bus down to Aguas Calientes. The bus journey takes approximately 25 minutes, and boarding is generally on a first-come, first-served basis. From Aguas Calientes, you will take the train to Ollantaytambo. Your guide will provide the relevant tickets and confirm your departure time. Please arrive at the train station at least 30 minutes before departure. The train journey takes approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes, followed by a road transfer of around two hours to Cusco city. Actual travel times may vary depending on schedules and road conditions. Our group tours bring together travelers of different ages and fitness levels. Participants should walk at a pace appropriate to their abilities while following the guide’s instructions and the group’s agreed schedule. If adjustments to the itinerary become necessary, the guide will assess the situation, communicate with the group, and make decisions based on the conditions and the safety of the participants. Strikes and demonstrations occasionally occur in Peru and may affect roads, train services, or other travel arrangements. In such circumstances, Cusco Journeys will make every reasonable effort to maintain your itinerary or adjust departure times when possible. Your safety is our priority. Any changes will depend on the situation, transport availability, and the guidance of the relevant authorities. You are responsible for your personal belongings throughout the tour. Please check your surroundings and make sure you collect all your items when leaving our vehicles, tents, restaurants, and other stops. Avoid leaving belongings unattended during the trek. Before moving on to the next stop, check that you have your phone, camera, passport, money and other personal items with you. The Vilcabamba Trek 5 Days 4 Nights is a guided trekking adventure from Cusco to Machu Picchu, following remote Andean trails through a region closely…Overview
Tour Overview
Highlights
Vilcabamba Trek at a Glance
Day 1: Cusco – Ollantaytambo – Abra Málaga – Huancacalle
Day 2: Huancacalle – Vilcabamba – Pumachaca
Day 3: Pumachaca – Inca Wasi Valley – Racachaca – Hatun Pata
Day 4: Hatun Pampa – Pumaccasa – Mojon – Mutuypata
Day 5: Mutuypata – Yanatile – Hydroelectric Plant – Aguas Calientes
Day 6: Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu – Ollantaytambo – Cusco
Why Choose the Vilcabamba Trek to Machu Picchu?
Itinerary
Detailed Itinerary – Vilcabamba Trek to Machu Picchu 6 Days / 5 Nights
Day 1: Cusco – Ollantaytambo – Abra Málaga – Huancacalle
Day 2: Huancacalle – Vilcabamba – Pumachaca
Day 3: Pumachaca – Hatun Pata
Day 4: Hatun Pampa – Pumaccasa – Mojon – Mutuypata
Day 5: Mutuypata – Yanatile – Hydroelectric – Aguas Calientes
Day 6: Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu – Ollantaytambo – Cusco
Inclusions
Included
Not Included
What do you need to bring
Clothing & Gear
Documents & Essentials
Health & Safety
Equipment & Accessories
Prices
💰 Prices
From USD $859 per person
✔ Professional English-speaking guides and full trekking logistics included.
Private Service
3 Trekkers: $1249 per person
4 Trekkers: $1049 per person
5 or more Trekkers: $869 per person
Booking & Payment
Student & Child Discounts
Optional Extras (Need to Book in Advance)
Hotel Upgrades
Train Upgrades
Rentals
FAQ's
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) – Vilcabamba Trek 6 Days / 5 Nights
1.- What is the Vilcabamba Trek to Machu Picchu?
2.- How difficult is the Vilcabamba Trek?
3.- How high is the Vilcabamba Trek?
4.- Do I need to acclimatize before starting the Vilcabamba Trek?
5.- What archaeological sites can I visit during the Vilcabamba Trek?
6.- Is the train from Hydroelectric to Aguas Calientes included?
7.- Are the hot springs in Aguas Calientes included in the tour?
8.- Where do we sleep during the Vilcabamba Trek?
9.- Is the Vilcabamba Trek to Machu Picchu worth it?
10.- What makes the Vilcabamba Trek different from other treks to Machu Picchu?
Before You Go
Important Travel Information – Vilcabamba Trek 6 Days / 5 Nights
Briefing Before the Trek
Acclimatization in Cusco
What to Do Before Your Trek
Trek Balance Payment (in Cusco)
Duffel Bag or Canvas Case
Can I Store My Luggage at Your Office?
Machu Picchu Entrance Circuits and Schedule
Pick-Up of Guests
Return from Machu Picchu to Cusco
Group Tours
Strikes and Demonstrations
Lost Objects
Contact Us
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