5-Day Inca Trail Hike to Machu Picchu: A Perfect Adventure for Families and Friends
The 5-day Inca Trail hike to Machu Picchu is designed for those who want to take their time and fully immerse themselves in the breathtaking landscapes of the Andes. This extended itinerary is highly recommended for families and groups of friends looking to share a memorable experience together, enjoying the scenic mountain views, stunning sunsets, and peaceful sunrises in a relaxed and tranquil setting.
Unlike the classic 4-day Inca Trail, the 5-day Inca Trail option allows travelers to avoid the crowds and experience the journey at a comfortable pace. It’s the perfect choice for those who prefer a more leisurely adventure, providing extra time to explore the ancient Inca ruins and connect with nature.
This hiking option is also ideal for older travelers (60+) who want to enjoy the trail at a steady and manageable pace, ensuring a more comfortable and fulfilling experience without feeling rushed.
Whether you're looking for a slower-paced adventure or simply want to enjoy more time on the trail, the 5-day Inca Trail to Machu Picchu offers an unforgettable experience that should be on everyone's bucket list!
Day 1: Urubamba River & Hidden Fortresses Start at Km 82 and trek along the scenic Urubamba River. Visit the Vilca Raccay fortress and camp at the impressive ruins of Llactapata (8,692 ft), a site often missed by faster groups.
Day 2: Paucarcancha & High Altitude Ascent Explore the rarely visited fort of Paucarcancha. Ascend through the cloud forest to our secluded campsite at Llulluchapampa (12,460 ft), strategically positioned just below the highest pass to make the next day’s climb easier.
Day 3: Dead Woman’s Pass & Sunset Views Conquer Dead Woman’s Pass (13,800 ft) and a second mountain pass. Visit the Runkurakay and Sayacmarca sites. Camp at Phuyupatamarca (12,073 ft) for spectacular sunset views and a first glimpse of Machu Picchu Mountain.
Day 4: The Sun Gate Arrival Explore the major sites of Phuyupatamarca, Intipata, and Wiñay Wayna. Arrive at the Sun Gate (Inti Punku) in the late afternoon, enjoying a crowd-free, golden-hour view of the Machu Picchu citadel before descending to your final campsite.
Day 5: Machu Picchu Sanctuary Experience a comprehensive 2-hour private guided tour of the citadel at sunrise. Optional climbs to Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain are available before returning to Cusco by train and private van.
Your adventure on the 5-day Inca Trail to Machu Picchu begins with a relatively relaxed start, allowing you to ease into the trek. The journey kicks off at Km 82, where we gradually make our way along the scenic banks of the Urubamba River, offering breathtaking views of the snow-capped Veronica Mountain (5,900m / 19,000ft). Along the way, you'll encounter a rich variety of native plants and bird species, making for a truly immersive experience in nature.
One of the highlights of the day is a visit to the small Inca fortress of Vilca Raccay, an intriguing archaeological site located off a side spur of the main Inca Trail. After exploring this hidden gem, we'll continue our trek to the impressive Inca site of Llactapata (Patallacta), our campsite for the night.
At an elevation of 2,650m (8,692ft), Llactapata is often overlooked by many trekkers as it lies slightly off the main route. However, taking the 5-day Inca Trail at a relaxed pace allows us to explore this remarkable site without the crowds. By camping further along the trail, the ascent to the pass the following day becomes more manageable, giving us the chance to enjoy the serenity and beauty of this lesser-visited location.
Take in the peaceful atmosphere of Llactapata, surrounded by stunning landscapes and the rich history of the Inca civilization, as we prepare for the days ahead.
Today is another relatively easy day on the 5-day Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, designed to make your journey more enjoyable. While most groups would be pushing ahead towards Dead Woman's Pass — the highest and most challenging point on the trek — we’ll take a more relaxed approach. Our goal for the day is to reach the campsite at Llulluchapampa, located just before the pass. Breaking the hardest stretch into two days makes the climb much easier and more manageable.
On our way to Llulluchapampa, we’ll go off the beaten path to explore one of the least visited sites on the Inca Trail, the Inca fort of Paucarcancha. This hidden gem offers a fascinating glimpse into the Inca’s military architecture and strategic design. As we ascend towards our campsite, we’ll pass through several distinct biozones, including the low sierra, cloud forest, and the high puna.
Along the way, there are many opportunities to observe diverse plant and birdlife, and with some luck, we might even catch a glimpse of White Tailed Deer in their natural habitat. Our campsite for the night is located at an altitude of 3,800m (12,460ft), offering a peaceful and quiet environment. Most trekkers camp in the valley below or on the other side of the pass, so we can enjoy the tranquility of this beautiful spot away from the crowds.
Today is the longest day on the 5-day Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, crossing two high passes. Fortunately, we’re almost at the first pass, and once we’ve crossed the second, the walk becomes much easier with minimal elevation changes. This day offers some of the best views and scenery of the entire trek, with spectacular panoramas of snow-capped peaks and lush cloud forests surrounding us.
Along the way, we’ll visit two fascinating Inca sites: Runcuraccay and Sayacmarca, both offering insights into the ancient civilization's architectural and cultural legacy. The stunning views of the mountains and the natural beauty of the landscape make this day a true highlight of the Inca Trail experience.
Our campsite for tonight is located at Phuyupatamarca (3,680m / 12,073ft), a breathtaking location with our first distant views of Machu Picchu Mountain. While the site itself remains hidden from view, the sight of the surrounding mountains is awe-inspiring. The sunset views from Phuyupatamarca are simply unforgettable, and once again, we enjoy a peaceful and quiet campsite, as most trekkers opt to camp closer to Machu Picchu.
Today is all about immersing yourself in the rich history of the Inca civilization. We’ll visit three major Inca sites: Phuyupatamarca, Intipata, and Wiñay Wayna, before finally reaching Machu Picchu later in the day. With only a short distance left to cover, you’ll have ample time to explore these ancient sites in detail, learning about Inca culture and preparing for your visit to Machu Picchu the following day.
The area around these Inca sites is also teeming with wildlife, and since only a handful of trekkers are on this stretch of the trail at this time of day, it’s the perfect opportunity to spot some of the more elusive species native to the region.
The final stretch of the Inca Trail is blissfully deserted at this hour, providing the ideal setting for our arrival at Machu Picchu via the Sun Gate (Inti Punku). With the sun casting beautiful light over the citadel and very few tourists around, you’ll have the chance to take stunning photos from a distance before continuing our descent into the site.
After exploring Machu Picchu, we’ll head to Puente Ruinas (the campsite near Aguas Calientes), where we’ll be greeted by our porters for our last night camping together. This is a moment to reflect on the incredible journey we’ve shared on the Inca Trail.
On the final day of your journey, we’ll start early and take the first bus up to Machu Picchu to enter the site as it opens. Once inside, we’ll enjoy a 2-hour guided tour, where you’ll learn about the fascinating Inca civilization and explore the most important areas of the Machu Picchu citadel.
After the tour, you’ll have free time to continue exploring the site at your own pace. If you have the necessary permits, you can also hike to Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain for panoramic views of the entire site and the surrounding mountains.
In the afternoon, we’ll take the train back to Ollantaytambo, where we’ll catch a bus back to Cusco, bringing your incredible journey on the Inca Trail to a close.
Acclimatize min. 2 days to the altitude of Cusco city before doing the walk. Thus, the symptoms of altitude sickness will be avoided.
Packing List.
Please read carefully the following information as it will help you answer all of your questions about our services and the Classic Inca Trail
You will be welcomed at the Cusco airport by one of our team and taken to your hotel. Please ensure that you inform us of your flight details at least 14 days prior to your arrival. Look for our representative holding an dark blue board Machupicchu Trekking Peru at the arrival terminal. You must exit the terminal, in order, to find our representative (they cannot enter inside).
The briefing will take place the night before the trek at 6 pm in our office, which is located at Calle Santa Teresa 399 - Cusco
Of course! During the Classic Inca trail to Machu Picchu, your main luggage can be store at our office or at your hotel, whichever is more convenient for you. Please pack what you will need for the trek!
FIRST, To book your adventure to Machu Picchu, select the tour or trek you would like to do and click BOOK NOW. Fill out a form with your personal information, after completing the form click on SENT YOU RESERVATION button, then we will send you by e-mail a payment link of US$ 200 plus the 5% commission per bank transaction.
Please be ready with the following information (FROM EACH PARTICIPANT in your group). We cannot purchase to Machu Picchu permits and entrance tickets without the following information:
Personal information (your full name, exactly as on your passport):
Gender
Passport number
D.OB. (dd / mm / yyyy)
Nationality
*** We require clear photos of each participants’ passport at the booking.
SECOND, we require a deposit of US$ 200 per person in order to purchase permits for the Tour or Trek to Machu Picchu.
the fastest ways to send and receive money with fairly low fees, are through:
machupicchutrekking.pe@gmail.com
The balance, to avoid the high credit card fees in Peru, you may pay IN CASH at our office with (US dollars or Peruvian soles) here in Cusco. There are many ATM within the historical center to withdraw money. You can also pay by your CREDIT CARD but you will have to pay a 5% service fee, to the iZipay collection company.
Unfortunately, the answer is no. Once permits have been bought, the Peruvian government does not allow any changes so we can’t change any date after the permit has been bought. If you must change the date of your trek, the fee is $100 because we have to buy you a new permit. Permits are also not transferable nor refundable. If you cancel your 5-Day Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, the deposit is not refundable at all!
Yes! You have to bring your original passport and it is very important that it is the same passport number, you sent to us to book your Inca Trail to Machu Picchu permit. Your passport will be checked when you enter Machu Picchu , the Inca Trail and when you board the train. In case, you are renewing your passport, go ahead and send us a copy of your old passport to secure your permit and we can change it when you get your new passport. If so, please send us a copy of your new passport as soon as possible.
This walk has no age restriction, however, it is recommended for parents to take into account the travel of children under 8 years of age and also for older people.
The dry season between April and October, with sunny days, cold nights with frost and an average temperature of 13 ° C. The rainy season, between the months of November to March, the average temperature in this season is 12 ° C. On sunny days the temperature reaches 20 ° C, although the light mountain wind is usually cold.
The greatest influx of people to the Inca Trail occurs during the dry season between the months of May to September, however, July and August are the months that the Inca Trail receives the most visitors. It is important to make reservations in advance because although it is true there are 500 spaces for the Inca Trail Tour, these spaces include the porters and guide staff.
The season with the least influx of visitors on the Inca Trail, occurs between the months of October and April.
NOTE: During the month of February, the entrance to Machu Picchu is restricted due to problems of the rainy season, others that are used this month for the respective maintenance of the seventh wonder of the world.
Yes! You have to bring your original passport and it is very important that it is the same passport number, you sent to us to book your Classic Inca Trail to Machu Picchu permit. Your passport will be checked when you enter Machu Picchu , the Inca Trail and when you board the train. In case, you are renewing your passport, go ahead and send us a copy of your old passport to secure your permit and we can change it when you get your new passport. If so, please send us a copy of your new passport as soon as possible.
The weather is very unpredictable and it’s difficult to foresee. We recommend that you plan to always dress in layers to facilitate adjusting to the quickly changing weather conditions.
In general, if you exercise regularly and spend a couple of days in Cusco or the Sacred Valley, you will be able to acclimate normally. It usually take between 24 hours to 2 days.
The recommended remedies for altitude sickness is WATER, COCA TEA and OXYGEN, IF NEEDED. Our guides are trained to treat you for Altitude Sickness. See our detailed information about Altitude Sickness under FAQS.
The maximum group size is 10 persons. Our groups are usually between 2-6 persons. Machupicchu Trekking Peru specializes in SMALL and PRIVATE groups and provides personalized service.
You will have 1 cook per group. The number of porters will depend on the size of the group. For a group of 2 trekkers, there will have 4 porters, 4 trekkers will have 6 porters, 6 trekkers will have 9 porters, 8 trekkers will have 12 porters, 10 trekkers will have 15 porters.
The evening before you start your trek, you will be given a SMALL DUFFEL BAG to pack your clothes for the next four days. Your weight allowance is up to 7kg/15lbs. Your team of porters will carry your duffel bag, together with the food and camping gear. It’s important to be aware that you will not have access to your items in the duffel bag until the end of each day, as the porters will always be ahead of the group. During the trek, you will need a day backpack big enough to carry your personal belongings such as a warm jacket, a rain jacket, your camera, sunscreen, snacks, water, etc. A 30 to 50L backpack is sufficient. By Peruvian law, a duffel bag must not weigh more than 7 kilograms (15lbs). This limit is set to protect the health of the porters and animals. All bags will be weighed before being accepted. If you require more than 7 kilograms, it will then be your responsibility to carry the extra weight with your day pack. In this 7 kilos, please count 2 kilos for your sleeping bag and 1 kilo for your sleeping pad (foam or air). This leaves you about 4 kilos for your personal gear.
The Classic Inca Trail to Machu Picchu is a 42km (24.4 mile) hike through the Andes within the Cusco region. The maximum altitude reached is at (4,217m/13,907ft). On the second day of the trek, we will climb two mountains. The trail is a fairly difficult trek and you should be well prepared and healthy prior to starting it. You have to be moderately fit and take regular exercise. In preparation: try walking 15kms/9 miles in a day or working out in the months leading up to the trek. It is also important to be well acclimatized to the altitude. Try to spend at least 2 or 3 days in Cusco (3,350m/11,047ft) prior to starting the trek.
This has been highly appreciated by most of our clients, especially by our trekkers, who want a private, clean and sanitary toilet! Machupicchu Trekking Peru toilet facilities have an individual tent and a camping toilet with a seat. Check out the picture, which illustrates how we set up our camping toilet on the trek by using this link: picture of toilet tent. Our toilet is always set up a comfortable distance from our campsite. At night if you need to use the toilet it is readily accessible and clean, unlike the dirty facilities supplied by the government.
In the scenario that you are unable to finish the trek due to health reasons, Machupicchu Trekking Peru will assist you to the nearest town for help with transportation. We always carry oxygen on our treks for any respiratory problems. In extreme cases, a helicopter pick up can be arranged at your own expense. (Travel insurance is required and recommended). There are no refunds in the unlikely situation that you are unable to finish the trek.
Generally, those who have to be assisted off the trail are taken to Ollantaytambo and if they recover quickly they continue the journey towards Aguas Calientes (cost incurred by trekker) and visit Machu Picchu according to the original plan.
Absolutely!! Hotel pick ups and drop offs are included with all of our packages! If you have booked your hotel in the Sacred Valley, we will drop you off there and vice versa.
It will depend on the train availability but the idea is to give you as much time as possible in Machu Picchu and enjoy the amazing views on the way back to Cusco while on the train. Therefore, you will take the train at 14:55 or 16:22, depending on availability.
If you’re happy with the services provided, a tip – though not compulsory – is appreciated. While it may not be customary in your country, it’s of great significance for the people who will take care of you during the trek. It inspires excellent service and is an entrenched feature of the tourism industry across many Machupicchu Trekking Peru destinations. Of course, you are free to tip as much as you want, depending on your perception of the quality and the length of your trip. Remember, a tip is not compulsory and should only be given when you receive excellent service.
Yes, we are a local, sustainable & responsible tourism operator that incorporates universal principles of tourism: protect the environment and benefit the local communities by respecting their culture and religion. With this in mind, we have trained all our local staff to know and understand, respect the places and the local people.
FIRST, To book your adventure to Machu Picchu, select the tour or trek you would like to do and click BOOK NOW. Fill out a form with your personal information, after completing the form click on SENT YOU RESERVATION button, then we will send you by e-mail a payment link of US$ 200 plus the 5% commission per bank transaction.
Please be ready with the following information (FROM EACH PARTICIPANT in your group). We cannot purchase to Machu Picchu permits and entrance tickets without the following information:
Personal information (your full name, exactly as on your passport):
Gender
Passport number
D.OB. (dd / mm / yyyy)
Nationality
*** We require clear photos of each participants’ passport at the booking.
SECOND, we require a deposit of US$ 200 per person in order to purchase permits for the Tour or Trek to Machu Picchu.
the fastest ways to send and receive money with fairly low fees, are through:
machupicchutrekking.pe@gmail.com
The 5-Day Inca Trail Hike to Machu Picchu is available on any date that is best suited to you as long as we have a minimum of 2 hikers.
GROUP SERVICE:
door to door sevices
Groups of 5 or more receive a $20 USD discount per person.
Personal Porter (half) to carry 7kg of personal items is included in the price!
door to door sevices - panoramic train
To book the 5-day inca trail Hiking, you need to make an initial payment of $200 USD per person, the remaining balance can be paid online, in installments, or at our Cusco office with any credit card.
DISCOUNTS
Wayna Picchu and Machu Picchu Mountain are optional treks within Machu Picchu Citadel which do not include a guide. The climb is usually done on your own after your tour of Machu Picchu Citadel. If you would like the extra hike to be guided, please request in advance. There is an extra cost for this extra guided tour.
There are several extensions you can include to your Inca Trail Tour (group services)
It is important to acclimatize for at least 2 days and for this we recommend the following tours:
Day tours to do before your inca tail tour
"If permits Inca Trail Trek are unavailable on your preferred date, there are plenty of alternative trekking options that will still allow you to enjoy the Andes en route to Machu Picchu. These alternative treks offer the same breathtaking beauty as the Salkantay & Inca Trail Trek but with fewer crowds, as we take you off the beaten path in the Andes and ensure you don't miss any highlights on your journey to Machu Picchu."
Machupicchu trekking Peru requires only a 2 participant minimum for our departures! You can choose any day that is best for you as long as we have a minimum of 2 trekkers.
If you are a solo traveler and are flexible with your start date, we will make sure you have a group to travel with and you won’t miss out on any of the fun.
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