Inca Trail to Machu Picchu 5 Days / 4 Nights

The Inca Trail to Machu Picchu 5 Days 4 Nights is a rewarding trek through the Andes that combines mountain scenery, cloud forests, ancient Inca paths, tunnels, and archaeological sites.

The route begins in the highlands and gradually changes as you make your way toward the warmer, greener landscapes surrounding Machu Picchu.

Along the way, you will experience some of the most memorable sections of the Inca Trail, including impressive Inca ruins, mountain passes, and beautiful views across the valleys. The five-day itinerary gives you more time to enjoy the trail at a steady pace before reaching Machu Picchu through the Sun Gate.

We offer daily departures from March to January, except in February when the Inca Trail is closed for maintenance. Permits are limited and can sell out months in advance, so we recommend checking availability before booking.

CHECK AVAILABILITY

Highlights

• Walk the historic Inca Trail from Km 82 toward Machu Picchu.
• Explore Llactapata and its impressive agricultural terraces.
• Reach Dead Woman’s Pass at 4,215 m / 13,829 ft.
• Visit Runcurakay and Sayacmarca along the ancient route.
• Walk through cloud forests surrounded by Andean scenery.
• Explore Phuyupatamarca, Intipata, and Wiñay Wayna.
• Reach Inti Punku for your first view of Machu Picchu.
• Enjoy a guided visit to Machu Picchu before returning to Cusco.

Inca Trail to Machu Picchu 5 Days / 4 Nights at a Glance

Day 1: Cusco – Km 82 – Llactapata – Wayllabamba.

Begin your Inca trail trek at Km 82 and follow the Urubamba River toward Miskay. Continue to the viewpoint overlooking Llactapata and learn about this important Inca site. After lunch, continue along the trail toward Wayllabamba, where you will spend your first night at camp.

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

Start the day with a steady climb through Llulluchapampa toward Dead Woman’s Pass. Reach the highest point of the trek at 4,215 m / 13,829 ft before beginning the descent. Continue through the mountains to Pacaymayo, where you will have dinner and spend the night.

Day 3: Pacaymayo – Runcurakay – Sayacmarca – Phuyupatamarca.

Continue climbing toward Runcurakay Pass and visit the archaeological site of Runcurakay. Descend to Sayacmarca and continue through the cloud forest toward Chaquicocha. Later, follow the trail to Phuyupatamarca and enjoy the surrounding mountain views from camp.

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

Begin with a visit to Phuyupatamarca before descending through the stone steps of the Inca Trail. Explore Intipata and the impressive archaeological site of Wiñay Wayna. Continue to Inti Punku for your first view of Machu Picchu, then take the bus to Aguas Calientes for your overnight stay.

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

After breakfast, take an early bus to Machu Picchu for your guided tour of the citadel. Explore its temples, terraces, plazas, and other important areas with your guide. Return to Aguas Calientes, board the train to Ollantaytambo, and continue by private transportation to Cusco.

Why Choose the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu 5 Days / 4 Nights?

• Enjoy a longer itinerary with time to settle into the trek.
• Travel with an experienced professional guide throughout the route.
• Have camping equipment, meals, and logistical support organized for you.
• Stay in comfortable tents during the trekking portion.
• Spend your final night in Aguas Calientes with a private room and bathroom.
• Receive boiled drinking water from the second day onward.
• Have your train and private transportation back to Cusco arranged in advance.
• Choose between group or private service according to your travel plans.

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1: Cusco – Piscacucho – Patallacta – Wayllabamba.

Highlight of the Day: Begin the Inca Trail at Km 82 and discover the impressive archaeological site of Llactapata.

Today has a relatively relaxed start to the Inca Trail, allowing you to settle into the trek. We begin at Kilometer 82 (2,720 m / 8,922 ft) and follow the banks of the Urubamba River, with views of the snow-capped Mount Veronica (5,900 m / 19,000 ft).

As we walk, you will see native plants and birdlife along the route. The trail remains fairly gentle as we reach the small community of Miskay before gradually ascending toward a viewpoint overlooking Llactapata (Patallacta).

Llactapata means “upper town” in Quechua and was first discovered by Hiram Bingham in 1911. It was mainly an agricultural settlement that helped supply Machu Picchu with maize, one of the most important crops of the Incas.

After exploring the site, we continue along the left bank of the river toward Wayllabamba (3,000 m / 9,842 ft), whose name means “grassy plain” in Quechua.

We spend the night here, depending on the pace of the group. This is also the last place along the trail where you can purchase 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.

Highlight of the Day: Reach Dead Woman’s Pass, the highest point of the Inca Trail at 4,215 m / 13,829 ft.

After a hearty breakfast, we continue along the Classic Inca Trail, ascending from Wayllabamba while following the left bank of the Llulluchayoc River. Our first stop is 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, traditionally used as ornaments.

As we continue along the trail, we enter Llulluchapampa, surrounded by impressive mountain scenery. From here, the climb becomes steeper as we continue toward Abra de Warmiwañusca, better known as Dead Woman’s Pass.

At 4,215 m / 13,829 ft, this is the highest point of the trek and one of its most demanding sections. The weather can change quickly, with strong sun during the climb and cold winds near the pass.

Once at the summit, you can take a moment to enjoy reaching the Dead Woman’s Pass before beginning the steep but manageable descent toward Pacaymayo, where we spend our second night.

• Meals: Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner
• Distance Covered: 10 kilometers
• Approximate Walking Time: 6–7 hours
• Highest Elevation: 4,215 m / 13,829 ft
• Difficulty: Challenging

Day 3: Pacaymayo – Runcurakay Pass – Phuyupatamarca.

Highlight of the Day: Explore Runcurakay and Sayacmarca while continuing through the cloud forest toward Phuyupatamarca.

After breakfast, we continue our hike up the opposite side of the valley toward the second pass of the trek. Along the way, we enjoy views of waterfalls and the flora and fauna found throughout this section of the Inca Trail. About halfway up, we stop for a short visit to Runcurakay, an Inca site believed to have served as a watchtower, before continuing toward the pass at approximately 3,900 m / 12,792 ft.

From the pass, we begin our descent into the cloud forest. After about an hour, we arrive at Sayacmarca, one of the most beautiful archaeological sites along the Inca Trail. We have a guided visit before continuing toward our lunch spot at Chaquicocha (Dry Lake). From here, the trail becomes more gradual as we make our way toward Phuyupatamarca (3,680 m / 12,073 ft).

We arrive at our campsite after around two hours, with views of Machu Picchu Mountain and the Urubamba River below. After settling in, you can explore the nearby Inca site and, weather permitting, enjoy the sunset over the surrounding mountains.

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

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

Highlight of the Day: Visit Wiñay Wayna and reach the Sun Gate for your first views of Machu Picchu.

Today, weather permitting, we have the chance to enjoy a beautiful sunrise along the Inca Trail. After breakfast, your guide will take you on a visit to Phuyupatamarca before we begin the long descent along the stone steps toward Wiñay Wayna (2,650 m / 8,692 ft).

Along the way, we visit Intipata (Terraces of the Sun), an agricultural site offering beautiful views of the Sacred Valley. We then continue toward Wiñay Wayna, the largest archaeological site on the Inca Trail after Machu Picchu.

The complex includes agricultural terraces, a religious sector, and an urban area built into the mountainside. After visiting the site, we have our final lunch with the porters and a traditional thanking ceremony for the trekking team. If you wish, you can take this opportunity to thank them with a tip.

After saying goodbye to our team, we continue toward the Sun Gate (Inti Punku). The walk takes about an hour along a relatively flat stone path before Machu Picchu comes into view. From Inti Punku, we continue toward the archaeological site before taking the bus to your hotel in Aguas Calientes.

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

• Meals: Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner
• Accommodation: Hotel Vista Machu Picchu or similar
• Distance Covered: 11 km / 6.8 miles
• Approximate Walking Time: 6 hours
• Highest Elevation: 3,680 m / 12,073 ft
• Difficulty: Moderate

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

Highlight of the Day: Explore Machu Picchu with your guide before returning to Cusco by train.

Begin your day with breakfast at your hotel before taking one of the first buses to Machu Picchu. Arriving early allows you to enjoy the morning atmosphere at the citadel before your guided visit.

Your expert guide will lead a two-hour guided tour of Machu Picchu, visiting the main areas of the citadel and explaining its history, architecture, and importance to the Inca civilization. You will explore the agricultural terraces, residential areas, and religious sector while learning more about this mountain sanctuary.

After the visit, we take the bus back to Aguas Calientes, where you will have free time for lunch (not included), explore the town, visit the local market, or relax in the hot springs. In the afternoon, we board the train and travel along the Urubamba River through the Sacred Valley toward Ollantaytambo.

After approximately two hours, we arrive in Ollantaytambo, where our private transportation will be waiting. We then continue to Cusco and drop you off at your hotel.

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.
• Morning hotel pick-up on the day the trek begins.
• Private transportation by bus to Km 82, the starting point of the trek.
• Entrance fee to Machu Picchu – Circuit 3 (Day 5).
• Experienced, professional English-speaking guide.
• Comfortable tents, with two people sharing a four-person tent.
• All camping equipment, including dining, kitchen, and toilet tents, tables, and chairs.
• Bus ticket from Machu Picchu to Aguas Calientes and return.
• Train ticket from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo.
• Private transportation from Ollantaytambo to your hotel in Cusco.
• Celebration dinner.
• Hotel in Aguas Calientes with a private room and bathroom.
• Basic foam sleeping mattress.
• Private guided tour of Machu Picchu.
• Excellent meals: 4 breakfasts, 4 lunches, and 4 dinners. Vegetarian, vegan, and special diet meals are available upon request.
• Tea time before dinner, including tea, coffee, cocoa, biscuits, and popcorn.
• Boiled drinking water from Day 2 onward.
• Wake-up coca tea in your tent.
• Buckets of hot water for washing in your tent every day.
• Biodegradable soap and hand cleansing gel.
• Walkie-talkies used by Cusco Journeys & Adventure on all treks.
• Oxygen tank and first aid kit.
• All local taxes.

Not Included

• Sleeping bag (available for rent from us).
• Breakfast on Day 1.
• Lunch and dinner on Day 5.
• Entrance to Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain: $75 per person.
• Extra energy snacks.
• Walking stick.
• Travel insurance.
• Tips for the crew, including porters, chef, and guide.

What You Need to Take

The Inca Trail 5 Days 4 Nights is a high-altitude trek, so it is important to be prepared for changing weather and long days of walking. We recommend bringing the following:

• A good daypack suitable for carrying your personal belongings.
• Original passport.
• Travel insurance.
• Lightweight trekking boots with good ankle support.
• 3 pairs of trekking pants (no jeans).
• Layers for changing temperatures, especially at night.
• 1 rain jacket.
• 1 warm or winter jacket, plus wool socks, gloves, a scarf, and a warm hat for cold nights.
• 4 pairs of underwear.
• 4 shirts and 2 long-sleeve shirts.
• 1 good sleeping bag.
• Personal medication and any medication you normally use for altitude.
• Sun protection cream (SPF 35 or higher recommended).
• Insect repellent with 30% DEET.
• Reusable plastic or metal water bottle or a hydration pack.
• Water for the first day only, as drinking water will be provided for the rest of the trek.
• Camera.
• Headlamp with spare batteries for evenings at camp and early mornings.
• Bandages or moleskin.
• Flip-flops for use at camp.
• Personal toiletries.
• Plastic bags for dirty or wet clothing.
• Something to read during the evenings.
• Extra money for drinks and personal expenses.
• Emergency funds of approximately S/300–450 (USD $220).

💰 Prices

We offer flexible departure dates and operate the Inca Trail To Machu Picchu 5Days / 4 Nights daily, subject to Inca Trail permit availability.

From USD $939 per person

✔ Small-group departures with personalized service throughout the trek.
✔ Professional English-speaking guides and full trekking logistics included.

⚠️Limited availability due to Inca Trail permits. Early booking is highly recommended.

Student & Child Discounts

• 18 to 25 years old: USD $25 discount. A valid student ID is required at the time of booking.
• Under 18 years old: USD $25 discount. Please send a copy of your passport when booking.
• Under 11 years old: USD $30 discount. Please send a copy of your passport when booking.

Optional Extras (Need to Book in Advance):

• Machu Picchu Mountain: USD $75 per person (Advance reservation required).
• Huayna Picchu Mountain: USD $75 per person (Advance reservation required).

Hotel Upgrades

• Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo Hotel (★★★★★): USD $325 per person per night (double occupancy).
• Hotel El Mapi (★★★★): USD $105 per person per night (double occupancy).
• Santuario Hotel (★★★+): USD $65 per person per night (double occupancy).

Train Upgrades

• Vistadome Train: USD $65 per person (Aguas Calientes – Ollantaytambo).
• Hiram Bingham Luxury Train: USD $585 per person (Aguas Calientes – Poroy).

Equipment Rental

• Hiking Poles: USD $20
• Sleeping Bag: USD $25
• Private Tent: USD $40
• Personal Porter (12 kg): USD $160

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 to Machu Picchu through ancient stone paths, mountain landscapes, cloud forests, and archaeological sites. The classic route begins at Km 82 and eventually reaches Machu Picchu through the Sun Gate.

2.- Do I need a guide or porters?

Yes, everyone hiking the Inca Trail must travel with a licensed guide and an authorized tour operator. Porters are not mandatory for every traveler, but they can carry camping equipment and personal belongings, making the trek more comfortable.

3.- How difficult is the Inca Trail?

The Inca Trail is considered a moderate to challenging trek. It includes steep climbs, long stone stairways, and high-altitude sections, with the most demanding ascent taking place on the second day.

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

You can expect approximately 5 to 7 hours of walking on most days, although this varies depending on the group’s pace and trail conditions. The final day includes the visit to Machu Picchu and is less focused on trekking.

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

The classic Inca Trail covers approximately 42 kilometers (26 miles) over the trekking portion of the route. Along the way, you will pass through mountains, cloud forests, and several important archaeological sites.

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

Travelers must meet the age requirements established for the trek, be in suitable physical condition, and provide valid passport information for the Inca Trail permit. Your passport details must match the information submitted for the permit.

7.- What is the altitude on the Inca Trail, and is altitude sickness common?

The trek reaches its highest point at approximately 4,215 meters (13,829 ft) at Dead Woman’s Pass. Altitude sickness can affect anyone, so we recommend spending a few days acclimatizing in Cusco before starting the trek.

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

The dry season from May to September is generally the most popular time to hike the Inca Trail because of the lower chance of rain. However, the trail offers a different experience throughout the trekking season.

9.- How far in advance should I book the Inca Trail?

We recommend booking at least 6 months in advance during the high season and around 3 months in advance during the low season. Inca Trail permits are limited, so early booking gives you a better chance of securing your preferred travel date.

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

Yes, an official permit is required to hike the Inca Trail. Permits are limited and are issued using the traveler’s passport information, so accurate details are important when making your reservation.

11.- Can I climb Huayna Picchu?

Yes, Huayna Picchu can be added to your Machu Picchu visit with a separate entrance permit. Availability is limited, so we recommend requesting this option well in advance.

12.- Is the Inca Trail worth it?

For many travelers, absolutely. The Inca Trail is not just a way to reach Machu Picchu; the journey itself is part of the experience. Walking through ancient paths, passing archaeological sites surrounded by the Andes, and finally arriving at Machu Picchu through the Sun Gate makes this trek very different from simply taking the train.

Travel Information

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.

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

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.