5 - Day Inca Trail Hike from $750

 

This is the classic Inca Trail to Machu Picchu. The trail winds through substantial archaeological ruins surrounded by dense vegetation and astonishing landscapes. The 5-day Inca Trail hike covers the same distance as the 4-day trek (26 mi/41 km), and includes overnight in a hotel in Aguas Calientes on Day 4, followed by 1 full day in Machu Picchu.  Return to the ruins on Day 5 for a grand, guided tour, followed by time to wander alone before going back to Cusco.

Spend more time on the Inca Trail combined with more time in the Machu Picchu ruins. 
4 days on the Inca Trail + 1 full day in the ruins.

The Inca trail wanders through a variety of eco-zones and features different terrain from large stones stairs that are expertly chiseled then arranged on the steeper parts, with impressively-cut  tunnels and paths that meander through the valleys and over high passes.  The trail finally crosses a saddle in the mountain at Inti-Punku, the Sun Gate, for your first glimpse of the magic and splendor of the Machu Picchu citadel below.

The Inca Trail is one of the most popular & amazing hikes in Peru.  In order to protect and preserve the heritage of the trail, access to the trail is regulated by the Peruvian government, the INC (National Institute of Culture) and the INRENA (National Institute of Natural Resources).  There is a limit of 500 people per day allowed on the trail, including 300 porters and guides.  Foreign visitors total no more than 200 per day. If you are planning to hike the Inca Trail, we recommend booking several weeks or months in advance.  Feel free to contact us any time to check on availability. 

We intentionally organize the logistics for our hiking groups to limit exposure to other hikers.  This ensures a quality hiking experience.  For most, this is a once in a lifetime experience and worth the extra attention it takes.  It's possible to have a moment when you think you are the only hiker on the Inca Trail! There are stories all over the internet about bad experiences on Inca Trail hikes due to lack of attention to group dynamics, poorly prepared meals or inexperienced guides. 

Our groups are limited to 8 people & because we organize everything ourselves, we control the factors that make your hike enjoyable.  We do not sub-contract.  Our guides are exceptional & porters prepare meals using high quality ingredients.

The process for applying for Inca Trail permits is best if you allow at least 4-6 months before your planned travel dates and 1 year in advance for a large group. (Contact us if you have a large group, we can structure the hike to make it enjoyable even for large groups)

The Inca Trail is closed in February for maintenance.    

Day 1

Hotel in Cusco - Wayllabamba Camp /  Max altitude - 3000 m/9900 ft  Distance - 10 km/6 mi
Our team will arrive at 6:00 am in private vehicle to pick you up at your hotel in Cusco and drive to Km 82 in Piskacucho, with a brief stop in Ollaytaytambo, where you can buy last minute gear and personal items. We arrive at the trail head and the hike begins on a strolling, flat path along the Urubamba River and then gently shifts upward until our lunch stop. Along the way, we will get a close-up view of the archaeological ruins of Llactapata before we arrive at our campsite for the night.

Day 2

Wayllabamba - Warmiwanusca - Paqaymayu Camp / Max altitude - 4270m/14,000 ft  Distance - 12 Km/7.5 mi
We'll start the day early with a healthy breakfast prepared by our chef and then hike up to the highest point of the Inka Trail (Dead Woman's Pass). Notice several ecological zones and the different microclimates. The chef will have lunch ready and waiting at midday prior to passing the highest point, Warmiwañusca Pass at 4,200 meters/13,780 feet above sea level. Our descent will eventually take us to the campsite Pacaymayo, where will enjoy our dinner and a well-deserved rest.

Day 3

Paqaymayu - Chaqicocha -  Phuyupatamarca Camp / Max altitude - 4000 m/13,123 ft  Distance - 11 km (6.8 miles)
The most unforgettable day as you hike through the cloud forest with stops along the way to explore Incan sites.  Alluring landscape is spotted with a variety of wild orchids and birds, reminders of why we seek and enjoy rigorous outdoor activities.
Ascend to 13,123 ft/4000 m, then down to 12000 ft/3657 m.  Pass through a hilly area to reach the 3rd highest pass where you camp.

Day 4

Phuyupatamarca - Winaywayna - Machu Picchu / Max altitude 2400 m/ 7,874 ft Distance - 11 km (6.8 milies)
After a good rest we wake up early  and hike down about 2 hours to Winayhuayna  and from here towards the Sungate, where if it’s clear, you will get your first magnificent glance of Machu Picchu ruins in the distance.  Continue hiking down to Machupicchu and the entry, where we board the shuttle bus to Aguas Calientes, check into our hotel and enjoy dinner in the restaurant of your choice.  (dinner not included)  

Day 5

Machu Picchu - Cusco / Max altitude 2400/7874 ft
Awaken early, enjoy a quick breakfast, then board the first shuttle bus at 5:20 am to be among the first to enter Machu Picchu National Park at 6 am.  Guided tour followed by time to wander on your own.  Bring your own snacks or purchase fresh sandwiches in the outdoor cafe near the main entry.  Guide will arrange to meet you to take the shuttle bus to Aguas Calientes, where you will board the train for Ollantaytambo, then on to Cusco to arrive at your hotel

Cost:  $775 pp for groups of 4 or more; $850 pp for 2 or 3

Choose your dates, then contact us for availability.  All tours are private unless otherwise noted.  You will not be combined with other travelers.
We strongly recommend adventure travel insurance to protect your investment.  Permits cannot be refunded, transferred or cancelled.

Included:

• Transportation from: Hotel - Km. 82 (Piscaycucho) and returning to your hotel in Cusco at the end of Day 5.
• 1 night accommodation in 3* hotel with private bath, in Aguas Calientes on Day 4 (upgrades available)
• Shuttle Bus Tickets:  Machu Picchu - Aguas Calientes (3 times - 1 down on Day 4, 1 up, 1 down on Day 5)
• Train ticket from Aguas Calientes to Cusco
• English-speaking guide (2 guides if group is more than 9 people)
• Cook: meal preparation.
• Porters: Carry tents and cooking equipment
• Personal Porter: Carry backpacks, sleeping bags and mattresses (Max. 5 kilos/ 11 lbs per person)
• Meals: 3 Breakfasts/4 Lunches/3 Dinners + breakfast on Day 5
• Snacks and afternoon tea
• Tickets for Machu Picchu
• Permits for Inca Trail
• Equipment: tents (2 people in each, 3-person-capacity), sleeping pad, dinner tent, special biodegradable bathroom tent, kitchen tent, tables and chairs, table settings
• First aid kit, including emergency oxygen bottle.
• Minimum 2 people
• Maximum 8 people for each guide (9 or more requires additional guide)

Not Included:

• Hotels in Cusco
• Lunch/dinner/bottled water on Day 5
• Tips
• Travel Insurance
• Itinerary is subject to change

Please note that Inca Trail permits cannot be refunded, transferred or cancelled.