Vilcabamba Trek 5 Days / 4 Nights

Vilcabamba Trek 5 Days 4 Nights is an off the beaten track adventure and the best alternative to the Classic Inca Trail. On this exclusive 5 days Vilcabamba trek from the City of Cusco, you will be visiting the lost Inca city of Vilcabamba, the last refuge of Incas and continue to the iconic lost city of Incas, Machu Picchu.

Walk through the valleys, jungles and mountains of the Vilcabamba mountain range. An amazing adventure along part of an original Inca trail; this path will take you from the last capital of the Inca to the mysterious lost city of Machu Picchu!!!

Overview

Overview:

Vilcabamba Trek 5 Days 4 Nights is a hike will allow you to see the amazing combination of important Inca ruins and diverse natural scenery. You will be able to experience hiking along traditional Inca roads, ruins and tropical glaciers. Vilcabamba is the original capital of the Incas that were left behind after the Spanish conquest.

By booking the Vilcabamba Trek 5 Days 4 Nights with Cusco Journeys & Adventure you are choosing the best. Don’t believe us? Check out our reviews on TripAdvisor!

Useful Information:

Starting Altitude – 2911m / 9550ft.
Highest Altitude – 3915m / 12,844ft.
Longest Day – Day ?, approximately ?km / ? miles
Overall Difficulty – Difficult

Itinerary

Itinerary:

Pre-trek briefing:

You will have a detailed briefing with your guide one or two days before your Vilcabamba Trek 5 Days 4 Nights. The guide will meet you at our office in Cusco, giving you the chance to ask any final questions and make sure you’re fully prepared for the trek.

Day 1: Cusco – Huancacalle – Vitcus – Casapata

We begin our adventure very early in the morning, heading towards the Sacred Valley of the Incas. As we pass through the town of Ollantaytambo, we make our way to the Abra Málaga mountain pass, where we cross over before descending through the vast Puna region, gradually transitioning into the lush high jungle.

Our first stop along this remarkable journey is the archaeological site of Huamanmarca, a site of great historical significance. Here, we find an impressive Usnu, or ritual platform, along with a precinct featuring four double-jamb doorways, each facing one of the four cardinal points—a testament to the spiritual and architectural ingenuity of the Inca civilization.

After exploring this fascinating site, we continue our journey to the settlement of Santa María, where we will take a brief rest. Refreshed, we press on to Huancacalle, a small village where we will leave our motorized transport behind. Although the journey has been long, the reward is the sense of solitude and tranquility we experience, as this region is relatively untouched by tourism. Upon arrival, we meet our arrieros (mule handlers) and their mules, who will accompany us on foot for the remainder of our trek. After a well-earned lunch, we prepare for the next phase of our journey.

Following a short break, we set off on foot towards the Rosaspata-Vitcos sector of the Vilcabamba Archaeological Park, where we will explore the area, including the famous Ñusta Hispana. It is believed that the tomb of the legendary rebel leader Manco Inka II may lie hidden somewhere in this remote area of the Vilcabamba cordillera. As we wander through this rich historical site, we will also encounter the iconic white rock, an enduring symbol of the region’s past.

As dusk falls, we arrive at Casapata, where we will set up camp for the night. Here, we will enjoy a well-deserved dinner, rest, and reflect on the day’s discoveries.

Meals: Lunch and dinner.
Maximum Altitude: 3,060 m / 10,039 ft.
Minimum Altitude: 2,950 m / 9,678 ft.
Distance Travelled: 5 km / 3.10 miles.
Approximate Walking Time: 3 hours.

Day 2: Casapata – Azuntina Pass – Pillaujasa – Hatumpampa

We begin our journey early in the morning, embarking on a steady climb through the Pumachaka River ravine, gradually making our way to the Chupana sector, where the river originates. Along the way, we’ll encounter sections of the ancient Inca Trail, which we will follow, allowing us to step back in time and connect with the path that once linked ancient Andean civilizations. As we ascend, we have the opportunity to observe the rich local flora, which plays an important role in the region, particularly in the dyeing of textiles that are still produced here today.

Our trek takes us through three distinct ecological levels: Quechua, Suni, and Puna, each offering its own unique landscapes and biodiversity. As we continue, we reach the Pillaujasa mountain pass, where we are treated to an incredible panoramic view. From here, we can spot the nearby Azuntina pass, nestled in the heart of the Andean mountains, creating a stunning backdrop that seems almost too perfect to be real—truly a scene worthy of a postcard.

After taking in the breathtaking views, we begin our descent along the trail, heading toward the valley of the Racchchaka River. We follow the river upstream, gradually making our way to the peaceful village of Hatunpampa, where we will set up camp for the night. From our campsite, we will be treated to a spectacular view of the Tuytubamba snow-capped peak, adding to the magic of this unforgettable day.

Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
Maximum Altitude: 4,086 m / 13,406 ft.
Minimum Altitude: 3,060 m / 10,039 ft.
Distance Travelled: 17 km / 10.56 miles.
Approximate Walking Time: 10 hours.

Day 3: Hatumpampa – Mojon Pass – Nogalpampa

We begin our ascent along the path leading to the Yanacocha mountain pass, passing through a forest of native trees, including the distinctive Qeuña and Kiswar, at an altitude of over 4,500 meters (14,764 feet). As we reach the pass, we are rewarded with a breathtaking view of the Yanacocha Lake, a serene and tranquil spot that marks a highlight of our journey. From here, we will begin our descent towards the Mojon Pass, which represents the final high point of our Vilcabamba Trek 5 Days 4 Nights.

The landscape of the Puna, with its vast, open plains and rugged beauty, serves as a stark reminder of how remote we are from civilization. As we make our way down, we descend through the Mutuypata ravine, a lush and picturesque area that offers a welcome change of scenery.

Here, we will take a well-deserved break and enjoy our lunch, recharging for the next part of the trek. After resting, we continue on, following the winding trail that leads us to the valley of the Saqsarayoq River. Upon crossing the river, we make our way to the quaint village of Mutuypata, where we will set up camp for the night, surrounded by the beauty of the Andean landscape.

Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
Maximum Altitude: 4,500 m / 14,764 ft.
Minimum Altitude: 2,788 m / 9,147 ft.
Distance Travelled: 14 km / 8.69 miles.
Approximate Walking Time: 8 hours.

Day 4: Mutuypata – Yanatile – Hidroelectrica – Aguas Calientes

We will continue our journey by descending through a stunning native forest, immersing ourselves in the rich biodiversity of the area. As we make our way downhill, the path will lead us toward the charming town of Yanatile.

Here, we will pause for a moment to catch our breath before boarding our transport that will take us to the Hidroelectrica (hydroelectric plant) station. From there, we will board the train that will take us to the picturesque town of Aguas Calientes, nestled at the base of Machu Picchu. Upon arrival, we’ll check into our hotel, where you can unwind and reflect on the incredible journey we’ve experienced so far.

Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
Maximum Altitude: 2,788 m / 9,147 ft.
Minimum Altitude: 2,100 m / 6,890 ft.
Distance Travelled: 13 km / 8 miles.
Approximate Walking Time: 5 hours.

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

On our final day, you will rise early to visit one of the Seven Wonders of the World – Machu Picchu. At 5:30 a.m., we will head directly to the line to catch the first buses up to the ancient site.

As we arrive at the entrance, the sky will begin to light up, offering the perfect opportunity to ascend to the top of Machu Picchu. Along the way, you’ll be mesmerized by the breathtaking views of the Inca city. On a clear morning, the sunrise over Machu Picchu is truly magnificent—an unforgettable moment that will stay with you forever.

Once we reach the summit, your expert tour guide will lead you on a 2-3 hour exploration. During this time, we will visit iconic landmarks such as the Sun Temple, the Royal Palace, the Main Temple, the Temple of the Three Windows, and the Sun Dial. This experience promises to be a truly memorable one.

For those of you who have booked Wayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain, it’s important to coordinate with your guide to ensure your Machu Picchu visit fits with your scheduled hike. If you are not hiking the mountains, there are other optional activities you can enjoy at your own pace (please note these are not included in the price).

In the afternoon, we will return to the train station in Aguas Calientes for the journey back to Ollantaytambo. Upon arrival at the train station, you’ll be transferred by car to your hotel in Cusco.

Meals: Breakfast.
Lowest Elevation: 2,040 m / 6,691 ft.
Highest Elevation: 2,440 m / 8,052 ft.

Inclusions

Included:

Trek briefing with your Guide.
Professional local Guide (on hike).
Second tour guide for groups of 9+.
Private transport from your hotel in Cusco to Huancacalle.
All entrance tickets and permits for the Vilcabamba Trek 5 Days 4 Nights.
Horses or mules and Indigenous horsemen to carry camping equipment.
1 train Ticket Service from Machu Picchu pueblo to Ollantaytambo Village (Tourist Train).
2 bus Tickets from Aguas Calientes town to Machu Picchu Inca site (round trip).
Professional bilingual guide (Spanish and English).
Personal items to carry 6 kg/13 lb.
Spacious tents / Sleeping mat.
1 night in a Hotel in Aguas Calientes. based on sharing a room; either double, matrimonial or triple depending on availability.
We provide a duffle for personal items.
Chef and kitchen team and kitchen store.
Excellent Meals (4 Breakfasts, 4 Lunches and 4 Dinners).
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 Included:

First breakfast and lunch on the last day.
Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain tickets (US$75).
Hot springs (S/15.00 soles).
Sleeping bags.
Walking Stick.
Extra activities such as zip line and barbecues.
Additional horses for extra personal luggage.
Travel insurance.
**Tips, for the crew (muleteers, chef and guide).

What do you need to bring:

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.
Travel-size tissues and wet wipes.
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 (Imodium AD or something for your stomach) because some people get an upset stomach on the trek.
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).

Prices

Prices:

We offer departures every day of the week, subject to availability of permits. Please note that permits are only required for your chosen start date. Prices are valid from March 2025 to January 2026. All prices are quoted in USD.

Group Price: $699 Per person

A group tour means you’ll share the trek with others, so your group may include people with different fitness levels and hiking speeds. Our experienced guides manage the pace to ensure everyone enjoys the journey, no matter their speed.

***The tour requires at least 3 participants to operate, with a maximum of 8 people in the group for a more personalized experience.

Private Tour:

Private tours are available and priced by party size.

2-3 Trekkers: $989 per person
4-5 Trekkers: $729 per person
6 or more Trekkers: $699 per person

Important: The price for the Vilcabamba Trek 5 Days 4 Nights includes up to 6 kilos of your personal belongings carried by the mules, so there is no need to hire an additional porter.

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 is required at booking for 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 $480 per person per night (double occupancy).
Hotel El Mapi (4 star hotel) – US $145 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.
Hiram Bingham train (deluxe) -US $585 for trip from Aguas Calientes to Poroy.

Rentals:

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

FAQ's

1.- What is the Vilcabamba Trek 5 Days 4 Nights?
The Vilcabamba Trek is a 5-day hike through the Peruvian Andes, connecting Incan sites and leading to Machu Picchu. It offers a quieter, scenic alternative to the Inca Trail.

2.- How difficult is the trek?
The trek is moderate to challenging, with steep terrain and high altitudes, suitable for hikers with a good fitness level and prior experience.

3.- When is the best time to go?
The ideal time is during the dry season, from April to October. The rainy season (November to March) can make the trail more challenging.

4.- What’s included in the trek?
The trek typically includes a guide, porters, camping equipment, food, and transportation. You’ll stay in tents along the route.

5.- How long is the trek?
The Vilcabamba Trek 5 Days 4 Nights, covering around 70 kilometers (43 miles).

6.- Do I need to acclimatize?
Yes, it’s important to acclimatize for 2-3 days in Cusco or the Sacred Valley to reduce the risk of altitude sickness.

7.- What type of accommodation is there?
Accommodation is in tents at campsites, providing basic comfort after a day of hiking.

8.- Can I visit Machu Picchu after the trek?
Yes, the Vilcabamba Trek 5 Days 4 Nights ends at Aguas Calientes, from where you can take a bus to Machu Picchu.

9.- What should I bring?
Key items include hiking boots, a sleeping bag, warm clothing, a rain jacket, and sunscreen. A camera is also recommended for the views.

10.- Is the trek suitable for beginners?
The trek is not recommended for complete beginners due to its difficulty and altitude. It’s better for those with some hiking experience.

11.- How much does it cost?
The trek costs between $700 and $1000 USD per person, depending on the operator and services.

12.- What can I see on the trek?
Expect stunning landscapes, Incan ruins, and remote villages, with panoramic views of the Andes mountains.

Terms & Conditions

By booking or participating in a tour and any related products or services (a “Tour”) with Cusco Journeys, you agree to these Terms & Conditions.

Booking:

Your booking is confirmed and a contract exists when the Tour Operator or your travel agent issues a written confirmation after receipt of the applicable deposit amount. Please check your confirmation carefully and report any incorrect or incomplete information to the Tour Operator or authorized agent immediately. Please ensure that names are exactly as stated in the relevant passport.
You will pay a deposit which is completely non-refundable in any situation. There are no exceptions.
You will be required to show the original passport (not a copy) that you booked with, at the checkpoint to enter the Inca Trail. If you originally booked with an old passport and then renewed your passport, you must also bring your expired passport along with your new, valid passport to permit entry or they will refuse your entrance to the trail.
The only acceptable ID to receive a Student Discount is your University Card with a clear expiration date that must be the same year as trek. IDs with expiry dates the following year, even though clearly valid, will not be accepted by the Peruvian government. You must submit a copy of this card at time of booking.

Cancellations:

Cancellations: In order to confirm this trip, a deposit of 40% is required per person at time of booking. The balance of the trip price is due 90 days before the departure date. Special holiday payment and cancellation terms may apply. Guests who must cancel their trip for any reason must do so in writing (we do not accept medical notes of any kind) as our out of pocket expenses are non-refundable to us.. Standard cancellations are subject to the following per-person penalties, based on number of days prior to departure:

ONCE BOOKED, DEPOSITS ARE NON-REFUNDABLE. CHART BELOW OUTLINES WHAT FURTHER FEES WILL BE DUE.

Cancellation By	Terms
91 days or more before departure	we will retain 50% of your deposit.
90 – 30 days before departure	we will retain 75% of the total tour cost.
29 – 0 days before departure	we will retain 100% of the total tour cost.

Inca Trail Tours:

Permits: Permits for the Inca Trail are in your name and can not be transferred to anyone else under any circumstances. Change of dates is also not possible once a permit has been purchased. Permits are non-refundable and non-transferable. The deposit will be forfeited. Please note that this is a regulation of the Peruvian government and not Cusco Journeys (or any agency).
In extreme cases when the “Inca Trail to Machu Picchu” is declared closed for safety reasons, Cusco Journeys will replace your trek with an alternative trek.
Those who booked PERMITS with a Student ID must bring that ID with them on the trek. If they fail to show this card to the Park Rangers, they will not be allowed entry onto the trail.

Medical Information:

You must advise Cusco Journeys of any medical problems or allergies you may have. You need to be in good physical health, and if your health is questionable, then you should consult a doctor. If you are over the age of 70 years old, then you will need to present us with a current good health medical certificate.
You are responsible for assessing whether a Tour is suitable for you. You should consult your physician to confirm your fitness for travel and participation in any planned activities. You should seek your physician’s advice on vaccinations and medical precautions. The Tour Operator does not provide medical advice. It is your responsibility to assess the risks and requirements of each aspect of the Tour based on your own unique circumstances, limitations, fitness level and medical requirements.
Cusco Journeys reserves the right to deny you permission to travel or participate in any aspect of a Tour at any time and at your own risk and expense where the Tour Operator determines that your physical or mental condition renders you unfit for travel or you represent a danger to yourself or others.
Pregnancy is considered a medical condition and must be disclosed to the Tour Operator at the time of booking. The Tour Operator may refuse to carry pregnant women over 24 weeks. The Tour Operator may refuse to carry anyone with certain medical conditions if reasonable accommodation or alternatives cannot be arranged.
It is strongly encouraged to purchase Travel Insurance to protect you in case of medical emergency or any tour cancellations.

Tours and Treks:

All balances need to be paid in either cash, Western Union, Transfer Bank or PayPal (in full) prior to the briefing which will be held the night before your tour. Visa incurs a 5% service fee and if you need to use another card, it must be through PayPal which incurs a 5.5% service fee.
You must advise your guide if you wish to leave the group or the camping area for independent walks or sightseeing. If you are experiencing any problems with the services of the guide or tour, please advise the guide in that moment, so that he can resolve any problems.
All Adventure Treks include transportation to Cusco. The return train route depends on train availability.
If you become ill or injured on the trail and are unable to continue, a porter will be provided to accompany you back to an area with emergency assistance capabilities. Helicopter air lifts and medical assistance are at the expense of the trekker. If you are unable to complete the tour due to illness, we will assist you in meeting your group at Machu Picchu to recommence your tour at that point. There will be no refund of the original payment. However, we will prepare a document to certify illness which can be presented for your travel insurance.
Cusco Journeys will take all reasonable care in providing to our clients avoidance of accident, illness, and loss of personal property, and will only employ suitably qualified staff. We accept responsibility for the actions of our own employees. Cusco Journeys cannot, however, be responsible for any action of third parties. You are totally responsible for your own personal property and rented equipment.
Cusco Journeys does not take responsibility for unfavorable weather conditions, natural catastrophe, strikes, accidents, illness, injury, loss of personal ítems, etc. It is the client’s responsibility to carry insurance to cover these types of events. We reserve the right to modify or cancel the program due to any of the unforeseen conditions listed above.
Cusco Journeys may modify your itinerary where reasonably required in its sole discretion.
Group tours might be as large as 16 participants. Groups are open to everyone no matter skill or age. By accepting a Group Tour you acknowledge that others might change the speed and timing of the tour.
All tours are done in English.

Delays:

Any costs, whether direct or incidental, incurred by the Customer as the result of delays caused by bad weather, trail conditions, river levels, road conditions, transportation delays, sickness, government intervention or other contingencies which are beyond the control of southern explorations will not be reimbursed.

Thank you so much for choosing Cusco Journeys!!!

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DETAILS	PRICE
Rent Air MatressRent Sleeping BagsRent Walking Sticks	$15 $20 $20

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Vilcabamba Trek 5 Days / 4 Nights

Overview

Overview:

Useful Information:

Itinerary

Itinerary:

Pre-trek briefing:

Day 1: Cusco – Huancacalle – Vitcus – Casapata

Day 2: Casapata – Azuntina Pass – Pillaujasa – Hatumpampa

Day 3: Hatumpampa – Mojon Pass – Nogalpampa

Day 4: Mutuypata – Yanatile – Hidroelectrica – Aguas Calientes

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

Inclusions

Included:

Not Included:

What do you need to bring:

Prices

Prices:

Group Price: $699 Per person

Private Tour:

Discounts:

Optional Extras (Need to Book in Advance):

Upgrades:

Rentals:

FAQ's

Terms & Conditions

Cancellation By

Terms

Contact Us

We’re here for you all day, everyday!

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Tour and Date Choose the correct tour and date

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Rentals

Hotel Upgrade

Train Upgrade

Extra hikes

choose your add ons

Rentals

Hotel Upgrade

Train Upgrade

Extra hikes

choose your add ons

Rentals

Hotel Upgrade

Train Upgrade

Extra hikes

choose your add ons

Rentals

Hotel Upgrade

Train Upgrade

Extra hikes

choose your add ons

Rentals

Hotel Upgrade

Train Upgrade

Extra hikes

choose your add ons

Rentals

Hotel Upgrade

Train Upgrade

Extra hikes

choose your add ons

Rentals

Hotel Upgrade

Train Upgrade

Extra hikes

choose your add ons

Rentals

Hotel Upgrade

Train Upgrade

Extra hikes

choose your add ons

Rentals

Hotel Upgrade

Train Upgrade

Extra hikes

choose your add ons