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Vilcabamba Trek to Machu Picchu 6 Days / 5 Nights
If you’re craving a truly unique adventure, the Vilcabamba Trek to Machu Picchu 6 Days 5 Nights is the ultimate experience! As one of our favorite treks, it offers an extraordinary opportunity to explore a route that’s completely off the beaten path.
This trek takes you through the stunning and diverse landscapes of the Vilcabamba mountain range—traversing lush valleys, dense jungles, and towering peaks. Along the way, you’ll follow part of the ancient Inca trail, walking in the footsteps of the Inca civilization as you journey from their last capital to the awe-inspiring Machu Picchu.
Every step reveals breathtaking views, rich history, and a true sense of adventure. Whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast, a lover of history, or simply looking for an unforgettable journey, this trek promises to be the adventure of a lifetime.
Overview
The Vilcabamba Trek to Machu Picchu 6 days 5 nights adventure that combines stunning natural beauty with ancient Incan history. This less-crowded route offers a unique and intimate experience leading to the world-famous Machu Picchu.
Key Highlights of the Trek:
Start in the Sacred Valley: Begin your journey in the picturesque Sacred Valley, exploring Incan trails and breathtaking landscapes.
Discover Hidden Incan Ruins: Visit remote archaeological sites, including the historic Vilcabamba, the final refuge of the Inca Empire.
Spectacular Scenery: Hike through diverse environments—from high-altitude grasslands to lush cloud forests—offering stunning views throughout the trek.
Wildlife and Nature: Spot native wildlife and plants as you trek through pristine Andean ecosystems.
Reach Machu Picchu: End your adventure at the majestic Machu Picchu, exploring its ancient ruins and soaking in panoramic views.
Before your Vilcabamba Trek to Machu Picchu 6 Days 5 Nights, you’ll have a briefing with your guide 1 or 2 days in advance. They will meet you at your hotel to answer any questions and help you prepare for the trek.
Day 1: Cusco – Ollantaytambo – Abra Malaga – Huancacalle
Our journey begins early at 4:30 AM, as we depart from Cusco for an exciting drive through the majestic Sacred Valley, famous for its lush landscapes and rich Incan history. After a brief stop in Ollantaytambo, we continue along a winding, steep trail that leads us to Abra Malaga Pass, located at an impressive 4315 meters above sea level.
This high-altitude crossing will likely make you consider Cusco as a low point! From the pass, we begin our descent—almost 2.5 kilometers—towards the charming village of Chaullay. After reaching this point, we continue our drive to Huancacalle, where we’ll settle in for the night.
In the afternoon, we take a short walk to the Vitcos Ruins, a historically significant site and stronghold of Manco Inca during the Spanish conquest. We also visit Ñustahispana, or the White Rock, which was considered the most sacred site in the area. After our visit, we return to camp in Huancacalle for a peaceful night under the stars.
Meals: Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Camping
Day 2: Huancacalle – Vilcabamba – Campsite
After breakfast, we begin our trek on the Vilcabamba Trail, heading up a well-preserved section of the Inca road. The hike takes us through the high jungle and gradually into more mountainous terrain.
After around four hours of steady ascent, we reach the 4000-meter pass, where we’re treated to panoramic views of the Vilcabamba mountain range, including the snow-capped Pumasillo peak. As we descend into the valley, we enter lush forests filled with vibrant orchids and an array of native plants.
The trail continues through the jungle, crossing a small stream before reaching the village of Pumachaca. Here, we’ll set up camp near the village, soaking in the natural beauty of the area.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Camping
Day 3: Pumachaca – Hatun Pata
Following a hearty breakfast, we continue our ascent along the ancient Inca Trail (Qhapaq Ñan), a path that has remained remarkably intact over centuries. We reach our first high point, the Pillaupata Pass, which sits at over 4000 meters.
From this vantage point, the views are nothing short of breathtaking, with sweeping vistas of the surrounding valleys and peaks. We begin our descent into the Inca Wasi Valley, where we explore an Incan archaeological site before stopping for lunch in the Racachaca valley.
Afterward, we climb steadily through the valley, eventually reaching our campsite at Hatun Pampa. This scenic location offers incredible views of the surrounding mountains, providing a peaceful and picturesque setting for the night.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Camping
Day 4: Hatun Pampa – Pumaccasa – Mojon – Mutuypata
Today’s trek involves a challenging ascent as we head toward the Yanacasa Pass at 4200 meters. From here, we are treated to stunning views of the Yanacocha Lake, a site steeped in local mythology. Villagers believe the lake is dangerous, as it is said to pull people into its depths.
We continue our journey, crossing the second pass, Tullu Tacaca, at a similar altitude, before descending to yet another beautiful lake at the foot of a glacier. After crossing the Asutina Pass, we begin our descent into the cloud forests of the region.
The scenery becomes increasingly lush as we approach our campsite at Mutuypata, located at 2950 meters. This beautiful location offers the perfect opportunity to relax after a strenuous day of trekking.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Camping
Trekking Time: 7 to 8 hours
Day 5: Mutuypata – Hot Springs – Aguas Calientes (Easy Day)
After a restful night, we embark on an easier day of hiking as we descend through a scenic canyon along the Yanatile River. The trail takes us through lush tropical vegetation, including fruit orchards with bananas, pomegranates, and coffee plantations.
After about 7 kilometers (or 3 hours of walking), we reach the village of Yanatile. From there, we board transport to the Hydroelectric Plant, where we’ll catch a train to Aguas Calientes, the gateway to Machu Picchu. In the afternoon, we’ll unwind in the town and enjoy a farewell dinner in a local restaurant.
Our last night is spent in a comfortable hotel, where we’ll prepare for the highlight of our journey: the Machu Picchu ruins.
On our last day, you will get up very early to visit one of the 7 wonders of the World ¨Machu Picchu¨. At 5:30 am. We will go directly to the line to wait for the first buses to Machu Picchu.
We will arrive at the gate when the sky lights up and ascend to the top of Machu Picchu, while taking in the impressive views of the city. On a clear morning, the sunrise over Machu Picchu is magnificent; This moment is unforgettable.
Our tour guide will take you on a 2-3 hour guided tour, where we will visit the Sun Temple, Royal palace, Main Temple, Three Windows Temple and Sun Dial. It will be an unforgettable experience.
If you have booked Wayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain, you will need to coordinate with your guide for Machu Picchu visiting depending on your scheduled time to the mountain, for people not hiking any of the mountains there are some other optional activities on your own (not included in the price).
Train back to Cusco: In the afternoon you will return to the train station in Aguas Calientes for the trip back to Ollantaytambo. Upon your arrival to train station you will 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
What’s Included
A pre-trek briefing the night before the start of your Vilcabamba Trek to Machu Picchu 6 Days 5 Nights.
Professional local Guide (on hike).
Second tour guide for groups of 9+
Private Transport and professional driver (to the starting point of hike at Huancacalle).
All entrance tickets and permits for Vilcabamba Trek and Machu Picchu Citadel.
Horses or mules and Indigenous horsemen to carry.
1 train Ticket Service from Machu Picchu pueblo to Ollantaytambo Village (Expedition Tourist Train).
2 bus Tickets from Aguas Calientes town to Machu Picchu Citadel (round trip).
Personal items to carry 6 kg/13 lb.
4 nights camping.
Spacious tents / Sleeping mat.
1 night in a Hotel in Aguas Calientes.
We provide a duffle for personal items.
One Cook
Excellent Meals (5 Breakfasts, 5 Lunches and 5 Dinners)
Food includes pancakes, omelets, soups, fresh fruit, avocado, pasta, chicken, fish, meat, rice, all before rich in carbohydrates and suitable for trekking (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.
What’s Not Included
First breakfast & lunch on the last day.
Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain tickets (US$75).
Hot springs (S/15.00 soles).
Sleeping bags.
Walking Stick.
Train ticket from Hydroelectric to Machu Picchu Town.
Extra activities such as zip line and barbecues.
Additional horses for extra personal luggage above that of the personal item allowance.
Travel insurance.
Personal expenses.
**Tips for the crew (muleteers, chef and guide).
What do you need to bring:
Vilcabamba Trek to Machu Picchu 6 Days 5 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 daypack: Eagle Creek Afar Backpack –appropriate packs to carry your personal belongings.
Original passport.
Travel insurance.
Swimwear for the hot springs of Aguas calientes Town.
Lighter trekking boots.
3 pairs of trekking pants.
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.
5 pairs of underwear and 5 pairs of socks.
5 t-shirts, 2 long sleeve shirts.
1 good sleeping bag liner that is super lightweight and easy to pack.
Travel-size tissues and wet wipes.
Iron tablets and pills for altitude sickness.
Sun protection cream (SPF 35 or higher recommended).
Bug spray.
Re-usable plastic or metal water container or a hydration pack such as Camel back.
Water (only for first day hike). Then we will provide you with water throughout 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.
Plastic bags for dirty and wet clothes.
Extra money for souvenirs, drinks, & tips to your staff.
Additional Notes.
Prices
The Vilcabamba Trek to Machu Picchu 6 Days 5 Nights departs any day of the week from March to January. Please note, it’s not available in February due to the rainy season and route maintenance.
2-3 Trekkers: $789 per person
4-5 Trekkers: $759 per person
6 or more Trekkers: $689 per person
**Important: The price includes up to 6 kilos of your personal belongings, which will be carried by the mules (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 passprt 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 $280 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 (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
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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