Inca Trail to Machu Picchu 5 Days 4 Nights

Is this trekking experience right for you?

Choosing the 5 Day Slow Inca Trail doesn’t mean the challenge is gone; it means we have intelligently redistributed the intensity. This paced version is the perfect match for:

• Active Travelers: Individuals who enjoy weekend hikes or maintain a regular fitness routine but want to savor the journey.
• Seniors and Families: Those who prefer a steady, consistent rhythm without the anxiety of keeping up with a high-speed group.
• Photographers and Nature Lovers: Adventurers who want the freedom to stop, capture every detail, and explore Inca ruins without feeling rushed.

Highlights of the Inca Trail (5 days)

• Exclusive Perspectives: Enjoy a unique lunch facing the impressive Llactapata archaeological site.
• Phuyupatamarca Sunsets: Spend a night at the «Town Above the Clouds,» offering 360-degree Andean vistas.
• Sun Gate Arrival: Reach the Inti Punku (Sun Gate) in the golden afternoon light for your first view of Machu Picchu.
• Ethical Trekking: Support local porters and communities through our responsible tourism initiatives.
• Flora and Fauna: Spot Andean hummingbirds and rare orchids in the pristine cloud forest.Highlights of the Inca Trail (5 days)

Quick Itinerary Summary

 DAY 1: CUSCO – KM 82 – LLACTAPATA – HATUNCHACA

•  Hiking distance: 7 km / 4.3 miles
•  Trail head elevation: 2,720 m / 8,923 ft
•  Lunch spot: Front of Llactapata Ruins (2,850 m)
•  Campsite elevation: 2,930 m / 9,612 ft
•  Hiking difficulty: Moderate
•  Weather: Warm
•  Inca sites to visit: Ccanabamba & Llactapata

 DAY 2: HATUNCHACA – DEAD WOMAN’S PASS – PACAYMAYO

•  Hiking distance: 9 km / 5.6 miles
•  Trail head elevation: 2,930 m / 9,612 ft
•  Lunch spot: Llulluchapampa (3,850 m)
•  Campsite elevation: 3,500 m / 11,482 ft
•  Hiking difficulty: Challenging (Highest pass)
•  Weather: Cold at the pass / Temperate at camp
•  Inca sites to visit: Wayllabamba

 DAY 3: PACAYMAYO – SAYACMARCA – PHUYUPATAMARCA

•  Hiking distance: 7 km / 4.3 miles
•  Trail head elevation: 3,500 m / 11,482 ft
•  Lunch spot: Chaquiccocha (3,600 m)
•  Campsite elevation: 3,680 m / 12,073 ft
•  Hiking difficulty: Moderate challenging
•  Weather: Cold / Cloud forest mist
•  Inca sites to visit: Runkurakay & Sayacmarca

 DAY 4: PHUYUPATAMARCA – WIÑAY WAYNA – MACHU PICCHU

•  Hiking distance: 10 km / 6.2 miles
•  Trail head elevation: 3,680 m / 12,073 ft
•  Lunch spot: Wiñay Wayna (2,650 m)
•  Accommodation: Aguas Calientes Hotel (2,040 m)
•  Hiking difficulty: Moderate (Downhill stairs)
•  Weather: Warm / Humid
•  Inca sites to visit: Phuyupatamarca, Intipata, Wiñay Wayna & Sun Gate

 DAY 5: MACHU PICCHU THE SACRED CITY OF THE INCAS

•  Distance: 4 km (Tour inside the citadel)
•  Machu Picchu elevation: 2,400 m / 7,873 ft
•  Lunch: Not included (Free time in Aguas Calientes)
•  Difficulty: Easy / Cultural tour
•  Weather: Warm
   Activity: Detailed guided tour of the Sanctuary and return to Cusco by train.

When is the Best Time to Hike?

• Choosing the right time for your adventure is key to an unforgettable experience. In the Cusco region, the weather is defined by two primary seasons:
• The Dry Season (April to October): This is the premier window for trekking. You will enjoy bright blue skies, crisp mountain air, and radiant sunshine. These months offer the most stable conditions for conquering high passes and capturing that perfect shot of Machu Picchu.
• The Rainy Season (November to March): During this time, the Andes transform into a vibrant, lush paradise. While you should expect torrential but usually brief showers, you will be rewarded with flourishing flora and fauna and fewer crowds.
• Important Note: To ensure the highest safety standards and trail preservation, the Inca Trail is closed for maintenance every February.

Why Choose Ali Perú Treks?

•  Proven Trust and Reputation We are a 100% reliable, punctual, and practical tour operator. Our reputation backs us up: read the excellent reviews from travelers just like you on TripAdvisor!
•  Professional Chef Service & Fresh Meals on the Mountain While others settle for basic camp food, we offer fresh meals prepared by a professional chef. Our team will delight you with varied, hot breakfasts, lunches, and dinners. After a long day of hiking, you deserve a quality meal in our private dining tent.
• Personalized Service (Small Groups) We guarantee an intimate experience with groups of 2 to 12 travelers maximum. This allows us to provide you with detailed attention, far from the massive tours of other companies.
• Fully Escorted (Hotel to Hotel) Your guide travels with you every step of the way. We pick you up from your hotel door in Cusco, accompany you during the 4-day trek, on your tour of Machu Picchu, and on the train back to Ollantaytambo, dropping you off at your hotel.
•  Door-to-Door Convenience Forget the logistics. We pick you up from your hotel door in Cusco and drop you off at the same place at the end of the 4-day tour. We take care of absolutely everything.
• Local and Authorized Operator Ali Perú Treks is a 100% locally-owned agency and an officially licensed tour operator for the Inca Trail. Your trip directly supports Cusco’s economy and professionals.
• Optimize Your Time (Early Return) We maximize your itinerary. We organize your return train at a convenient time (2:55 PM or 3:20 PM) from Aguas Calientes, allowing you to get back to Cusco early to rest.
• 100% Guaranteed Departures (No Outsourcing) Your reservation is sacred. If you book a tour for 2 people, the tour departs with 2 people! Ali Perú Treks will never pass you on to another agency or share your service.
• Responsible and Ethical Tourism We believe in dignified work. We ensure fair and punctual payment to our entire team (guides, porters, drivers, and cooks) as soon as they finish their job.

Itinerary

Day 1: Cusco Ollantaytambo-km 82-llactapata-hatunchaca

Your immersive journey begins with a personalized pickup from your hotel or apartment in Cusco, Urubamba, or Ollantaytambo around 6:00 a.m. By choosing our 5 Day Slow Inca Trail, you are opting for a stress-free start focused on the cultural details that most travelers overlook.

We begin with a scenic 2-hour drive into the historic Sacred Valley, making a strategic stop in Ollantaytambo. This is the perfect opportunity for last-minute supplies or to soak in the local atmosphere before heading into the wilderness. We then continue in our private transport for an additional 45 minutes to Km 82 (Piscacucho), the official gateway to this mystical path. Here, you will meet the backbone of your expedition: our professional chef and the dedicated Ali Perú Treks porter team.

After final preparations and the mandatory checkpoint (ensure you have your original passport ready), we take our first steps on the trail. The initial hour of hiking is gentle, allowing your body to warm up. Our first stop is the archaeological site of Salapuncu, a complex of versatile ancient functions that our expert guide will reveal in detail. We proceed for another hour to Qanabamba, a site that served as a vital ceremonial center during the height of the Inca Empire.

The expedition continues for two more hours until we reach the imposing site of Llactapata. Unlike the traditional 4-day tour, our 5-day itinerary grants you the necessary time to fully explore its perfectly preserved platforms, canals, and stairways. You will experience a true highlight: a gourmet lunch served directly in front of the majesty of Llactapata, offering a privileged perspective that few travelers ever witness.

Following this restorative break, we hike two final hours toward the village of Hatunchaca. This is the last community settlement located within the Inca Trail, providing a unique opportunity to interact with the local environment. We will arrive around 4:30 p.m., giving you ample time to relax with a hot drink as the sun sets. Dinner will be served at 7:00 p.m., marking the end of a first day of reconnection and rest under the starry Andean sky.

•  Starting Altitude (Km 82): 8,727 ft / 2,660 m
•  Campsite Altitude (Hatunchaca): 9,612 ft / 2,930 m
•  Total Distance: Approx. 4.3 miles / 7 km
•  Hiking Time: 4 – 5 hours (At a relaxed, mindful pace)
•  Elevation Gain: +885 ft / +270 m
•  Difficulty Level: Easy – Moderate (Acclimatization focus)
•  Highlights: Salapuncu Inca site, Qanabamba, in-depth exploration of Llactapata, and premium lunch overlooking the ruins.
•  Meals Included: Lunch & Dinner

Day 2: Hatunchaca-llulluchapampa-dead Woman Pass-pacaymayo

Your morning begins with a gentle wake-up call as your guide delivers a steaming cup of coca tea directly to your tent. You’ll have 30 minutes to pack and refresh before sitting down to a gourmet breakfast, masterfully prepared by our executive mountain chef.

Fuelled and ready, we begin a steady four-hour ascent. As we climb, the scenery transforms into a lush Cloud Forest, teeming with native flora, ancient trees, and the vibrant birdlife of the Andes. To ensure you have the strength to conquer the peak, we break the journey at Llulluchapampa ($3,600\text{ m} / 11,808\text{ ft})$, where a hot, chef-prepared lunch awaits you amidst the clouds.

After lunch, we tackle the final stretch to reach the legendary Dead Woman’s Pass (Warmiwañusca), standing at a breathtaking $4,215\text{ m} (13,828\text{ ft})$. At the summit, take a moment to breathe and absorb the extraordinary 360-degree views of the mountain range—a true achievement.

The day concludes with a two-hour descent into the Pacaymayo Valley (3,800m / 12,464ft). Upon arrival at our camp, you’ll be greeted with hot drinks and a well-deserved dinner. As night falls, if the sky is clear, we will gather to admire the Andean constellations, ending your day under a blanket of stars in the heart of the Inca Trail.

•  Starting Altitude (Hatunchaca): 9,612 ft / 2,930 m
•  Campsite Altitude (Pacaymayo): 11,482 ft / 3,500 m
•  Total Distance: Approx. 5.6 miles / 9 km
•  Hiking Time: 6 – 7 hours
•  Maximum Elevation: 13,828 ft / 4,215 m
•  Difficulty Level: Challenging but managed
•  Highlights: Conquering Warmiwañusca Pass, strategic lunch at Llulluchapampa, and stargazing at Pacaymayo.
•  Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner.

Day 3: Pacaymayo Runkurakay Pass-chaquicocha-phuyupatamarca

After a nutritious breakfast to fuel your day, we begin our ascent along the opposite side of the valley. We will hike for approximately two hours toward the second pass of our journey. Mid-climb, we stop at the Runkuracay archaeological site, a fascinating circular stone structure that served as an ancient Inca checkpoint. Here, your guide will share its secrets before we reach the Runkuracay Pass (3,970m / 13,024ft).

Once we cross the pass, the landscape transforms as the trail descends into an enchanting valley dotted with pristine alpine lakes. We continue downhill for two hours until we reach the impressive fortress of Sayacmarca («Town in a Steep Place»). Strategically perched on a rocky promontory and accessible only via a narrow stone staircase, this site allows you to walk among ancient walls surrounded by lush, high-jungle vegetation.

Just a 25-minute walk away, we arrive at Chaquicocha (3,600m/ 11,811ft), where our chef will be waiting with a restorative gourmet lunch. After a brief rest, we head toward our exclusive campsite at Phuyupatamarca (3,680\m / 12,073\ft). Sleeping at the «Town Above the Clouds» is the greatest privilege of this 5-day itinerary. From this vantage point, you will enjoy a premier view of Machu Picchu mountain and the towering Vilcabamba range. Prepare yourself for a cinematic sunset and a magical night where the Andean constellations appear with spectacular clarity, creating an unforgettable spiritual experience.

•  Starting Altitude (Pacaymayo): 11,482 ft / 3,500 m
•  Campsite Altitude (Phuyupatamarca): 12,073 ft / 3,680 m
•  Total Distance: Approx. 4.3 miles / 7 km
•  Hiking Time: 5 – 6 hours (Mindful pace)
•  Maximum Elevation: 13,024 ft / 3,970 ft
•  Difficulty Level: Moderate
•  Highlights: Runkuracay & Sayacmarca ruins, panoramic views of Machu Picchu mountain, and premium stargazing.
•  Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner.

Day 4: Phuyupatamarca Wiñaywayna Sungate Machupicchu

Wake up to a breathtaking sunrise over the Andean peaks; for many travelers, this is the most stunning day of the entire trek. After an unforgettable breakfast at the heights of Phuyupatamarca, we begin our descent into the lush cloud forest.

In the afternoon, we will visit another iconic Inca site called Wiñay Wayna ($2,650\text{ m} / 8,694\text{ ft}$), often referred to as «Little Machu Picchu» due to its impressive agricultural terraces and intricate urban design. Your expert guide will share the history of this mystical site before we embark on the final stretch of our hike.

After a one-hour trek, we will finally reach Inti Punku, or the Sun Gate. From this legendary vantage point, you will see Machu Picchu reveal itself in all its majesty and grandeur. Arriving in the late afternoon on our 5-day itinerary allows you to enjoy the «golden hour»—providing perfect lighting for photography and a much more peaceful atmosphere compared to the morning rush.

From the Sun Gate, we will walk downhill for approximately 40 minutes to the main platform of the citadel. There, you will have ample time to take spectacular photos and soak in the panoramic views of the world wonder. To conclude this epic day, we will take the shuttle bus down to Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu Town), where you will enjoy dinner at a local restaurant and spend a restful night in a comfortable 3-star hotel.

•  Starting Altitude (Phuyupatamarca): 12,073 ft / 3,680 m
•  Accommodation (Aguas Calientes): 6,692 ft / 2,040 m
•  Total Distance: Approx. 6.2 miles / 10 km
•  Hiking Time: 6 – 7 hours (Gradual descent)
•  Difficulty Level: Moderate (Numerous stone steps)
•  Highlights: Andean sunrise, Wiñay Wayna ruins, Sun Gate entrance, and the first panoramic sunset view of Machu Picchu.
•  Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner (at a local restaurant).

Day 5: Aguas Calientes Machupicchu Ollantaytambo Cusco

After an early breakfast at your hotel, you will prepare for the long-awaited climax of your journey. You will only need to carry a small daypack with your essentials; the hotel staff will securely store your main luggage while you explore the sanctuary. The scenic bus ride from Aguas Calientes to the main gate of Machu Picchu takes approximately 25 minutes.

Once inside the world wonder, your expert guide will lead you on a comprehensive two-hour guided tour. During this experience, you will delve deep into the history, architectural mysteries, and vibrant culture of the Inca Empire as you walk through the most significant sectors of the citadel. You will also have ample time to soak in the spiritual energy of the site and capture those final, iconic photographs.

We recommend returning to Aguas Calientes at least two hours before your train’s scheduled departure. The return rail journey from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo takes approximately two hours, offering beautiful riverside views. Upon arrival at the Ollantaytambo station, our professional staff will be waiting to greet you and provide a comfortable, private transfer back to Cusco, dropping you off directly at the door of your hotel.

•  Main Activity: Private guided tour of the Machu Picchu Citadel.
•  Machu Picchu Elevation: 7,873 ft / 2,400 m.
•  Tour Duration: 2-hour guided session (plus extra time for photos).
•  Return Logistics: Bus to Aguas Calientes, Train to Ollantaytambo, and private van to Cusco.
•  Meals Included: Breakfast (at the hotel). Lunch is not included.
•  Highlights: In-depth exploration of Inca temples, royal quarters, and terraces; seamless door-to-door return service.

Includes

• Pre-Trek Briefing: A comprehensive meeting with your expert guide the day before your trek to answer all questions.
• Personal Duffle Bag: Our porters carry up to 7 kg (15 lbs) of your personal gear, which includes your sleeping bag.
• Professional Trekking Guides: Highly experienced, university accredited guides who speak fluent English.
• Expert Chefs: Chefs who prepare delicious modern Andean, traditional Peruvian, and international meals (Vegetarian options available).
• Dedicated Porters: Porters carry all group equipment for the entire trek.
• High-Quality Tents: Durable, high mountain tents for your comfort (two people per tent).
• Comfortable Sleeping Mattresses: Inflatable mattresses are included for three nights of camping.
• Spacious Dining Tent: Roomy dining tent complete with chairs and a table.
• Fully Equipped Cooking/Bathroom Tents: Includes all necessary cooking gear and bathroom tents with water pump toilets at all stops.
• Bus Cusco to Km 82: Transportation from Cusco to the official starting point of the trek (Piscacucho).
• Bus Machu Picchu to Aguas Calientes: Service descends from the archaeological site to the town.
• Return Train Ticket: From Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo (Vistadome or 360° class service).
• Private Cusco Transport: Bus transport from Ollantaytambo back to your hotel in Cusco.
• Satellite Phones: Each group carries a satellite phone for emergency communication with the office.
• Oxygen Tank: Each team carries an oxygen tank at all times in case of emergency.
• Radios: Internal communication radios for guides, cooks, and porters.
• First Aid Kit: A full complement of over the counter medicines and emergency supplies.
• Entrance Tickets: Your Inca Trail Permit and the entrance ticket to the Machu Picchu Citadel are covered.
• Water: All necessary water is provided (boiled, purified, and cooled) from your first lunch to your last breakfast.
• Small Details: A sleeping pillow, backpack rain cover, and rain poncho are included for each hiker.

Not Include

• Optional Rentals: Sleeping bag ($25) and trekking poles (pair: $15) are not included.
• Post-Machu Picchu Lunch: The lunch after your Machu Picchu tour in Aguas Calientes is not covered, allowing you dining flexibility.
• Huayna Picchu/Machu Picchu Mountain: The additional entrance ticket for climbing Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain ($80 per person) is not included.
• Other Expenses: Tips (for guides, cooks, and porters), travel insurance, and personal expenses are not covered.

Packing List

Packing List: 5-Day Inca Trail

To ensure a comfortable and safe journey to Machu Picchu, we have prepared this essential guide. Proper preparation is the key to enjoying the Andes.

Essentials ,What To Carry With You:
These items must be on your person or in your daypack at all times:

• Original Passport: Must be the same document used for your booking.
• Valid University Card: (If you booked with a student discount).
• Good Daypack: A 30L to 40L backpack is ideal. (Note: Large hiking packs are not allowed inside Machu Picchu).
• Water Storage: 2-3 Liters (Reusable bottles or Camelbaks are highly encouraged).
• Hiking Boots: Comfortable, broken-in, and with good ankle support.
• Headlamp: Essential for navigating campsites at night.
• Rain Gear: High-quality poncho or rain jacket.
• Personal Documents & Cash: Small denominations in Soles for tips or local snacks.

The Duffel Bag ,Carried By Our Porters
As a 100% Direct Local Operator, Ali Perú Treks provides you with a duffel bag during your briefing. We INCLUDE a personal porter who will carry up to 7 kg (15 lbs) of your belongings.

Note on Porter Welfare: By Peruvian Law, duffel bags cannot exceed 7 kg to protect the health of our staff. Please consider that a sleeping bag (approx. 2 kg) and mattress (1 kg) stay inside the bag, leaving you 4 kg for personal clothing.

Inside your Duffel Bag:

• Clothing: 2 t-shirts, 2 pairs of hiking pants, 4 sets of undergarments, 3 pairs of hiking socks.
• Layers: Fleece, thermals, and a warm down jacket (Temperatures at the 2nd campsite can drop to 3°C / 37°F).
• Hand Wear: Waterproof gloves (essential for cold mornings).
• Camp Shoes: Comfortable sneakers or sandals to rest your feet at camp.
• Sleeping Bag: Rated for at least -15°C (Available for rent at Ali Perú Treks).
• Quick-dry Towel: For personal hygiene.
• Power Bank: There is no electricity along the trek.

Toiletries & Health

• Sun Protection: Sunscreen (high SPF), sun hat, and sunglasses.
• Skin Care: Lip balm and moisturizer (the Andean air is very dry).
• Hygiene: Hand sanitizer, wet wipes, toothbrush, and toothpaste.
• Insect Repellent: Essential for the final days in the cloud forest.
• Medication: Personal prescriptions and a small First Aid kit (band-aids, moleskin for blisters, pain relief).

Daypack Items,your daily Accessories
Since you won’t have access to your duffel bag until the evening campsite, keep these handy:

• Daily Water: Please bring your own water for the first morning; we provide boiled/filtered water from the first lunch onwards.
• Warm Layers: A fleece or light jacket for when you stop moving.
• Snacks: Energy bars, chocolate, or dried fruits to keep your sugar levels up.
• Trash Bag: A small plastic bag for your waste (we practice «Leave No Trace»).
• Camera: To capture the breathtaking views of the trail and the final arrival at the Sun Gate.

Travel Information

Our map of the 5-day Inca Trail

Below, we present the complete map, which offers a detailed overview of the 5-day Inca Trail route. This map traces the entire route, clearly indicating the starting and ending points, the main archaeological sites visited along the way, as well as the roads and train lines used for round-trip transportation.

In addition to providing an accurate visual representation of the overall logistics, it presents a breakdown of the actual hiking route, including the total distance and estimated walking time for each day. In short, this map serves as an essential tool for fully understanding the geographical context and organization of the Inca Trail experience.

Frequently asked questions