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The perfect trek for those who want who want more time to enjoy the Inca Trail. Also great for those who want to avoid the crowds, the 5 day Inca Trail to Machu Picchu is for you. Recommended for everyone also perfect for families and older trekkers.

The Inca Trail itself is an incredible combination of Inca ruins, magnificent snow-capped mountains, exotic vegetation and extraordinary ecological variety. The trail goes over high passes and through the national park of Machu Picchu with unforgettable views and great scenery, whilst hiking through cloud forest, and finally into subtropical vegetation. You will have plenty of time to explore all the amazing places and take pictures.  The great climax is the joy of visiting Machu Picchu, one of the world’s great wonders!

The distance of the Inca Trail 5 Day Trek is 45 km and spans through altitudes in the valley from (2,700 m/ 8,858 ft.) to mountain passes of (4215 m/ 13,828ft.). Continuing through the cloud forest toward the Sun Gate to arrive to majestic Inca Citadel of Machu Picchu itself. Included are 3 nights camping and 1 night hotel.

5 day Inca Trail – ITINERARY

Day 1: Cusco – 82 km (Piskacucho) – Patallacta

Pick up early at your hotel at 630am, drive through the Sacred Valley in our private van to Ollantaytambo passing through the villages of Chinchero and Urubamba. Later drive to KM82 and the start of the trek. Trek for 3 to 4 hours to Patallacta for lunch and here will be set up the first camp. Later in the afternoon explore the archaeological site of Patallacta. At camp you will be surrounded by high snow capped mountains.

  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Tea Time & Dinner
  • Accommodation: Camping facilities
  • Maximum Altitude: 2,650m/8,747ft
  • Distance: 6km/3.1mls
  • Difficulty: Easy

Day 2: Patallacta – Wayllabamba – Llulluchapampa

After breakfast start trekking to the Kusichaca Valley, on the trek enjoy many varieties of flora and fauna. Arrive into Wayllabamba for lunch. In the afternoon there will a 4 hour hike through the Llullucha Valley to the second campsite at Llulluchapampa. Afternoon tea will be waiting and the surround scenery will be stunning.

  • Meals: Breakfast, water, Lunch, Tea Time & Dinner.
  • Accommodation: Camping facilities.
  • Maximum Altitude: 3,800m/12,537ft
  • Minimum Altitude: 2,650m/8,747ft.
  • Distance: 11km/6.8mls
  • Difficulty: Easy/Moderate.

Day 3: Llulluchapampa – Paqaymayu – Chaq´icocha – Phuyupatamarca

Today is the longest day of our trek, but the most interesting and visually appealing as well. After a delicious breakfast we walk uphill for two hour to reach the highest point of our trek: the Warmiwañusca pass (Dead Woman pass) located at 4,215m/13,907ft above sea level. From here take in the spectacular views of the magnificent mountains, beautiful green valleys and myriad of flora and fauna. 

After some time enjoying these beautiful sites, we descend for two hours to Pacaymayu for lunch. After lunch ascend to the archaeological site of Runcurakay (3,800m/12,540ft) and explore. Ascend the second Runcurakay pass (3,977m/13,127ft), from here be mermerized by the breathtaking surroundings of mountains and stunning lakes. Later, walk for one hour to our next archaeological site of Sayacmarca (3,600m/11,877ft). Finally we walk for two more hours to our third camp in Phuyupatamarca (3,650m/12,047ft), walking through the Peruvian rain forest, be graced with the spectacular views of Machu Picchu Mountain, stunning Inca sites, the Urubamba Canyon, the surrounding snow-capped mountains and the sunset.

  • Meals: Breakfast, Water,Lunch, Tea Time & Dinner.
  • Accommodation: Camping facilities.
  • Maximum Altitude: 4,215m/13,907ft
  • Minimum Altitude: 3,650m/12,047ft
  • Distance: 15km/9.3mls
  • Difficulty: Moderate/challenge

Day 4: Phuyupatamarca – Wiñaywayna – Machu Picchu – Aguas Calientes

This day is the most anticipated day of our trek. We wake up early in the morning for breakfast, afterward we walk down stairs towards the archaeological site of Intipata, have the opportunity to explore, then down to Wiñaywayna (2,650m/8,747ft) for lunch, after lunch we will visit this stunning Inca site. Walk for one hour to the SUN GATE (2,720m/8,977ft). From this vantage point we get the first spectacular view of Machu Picchu in all its brilliance. Spend some time enjoying the view. We descend to one of the world’s great wonders: Machu Picchu. Enjoy the views and then we take the bus to Aguas Calientes where we spend the night in a hotel. After a rest enjoy a wonderful dinner in Aguas Calientes.

  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Accommodation: Hotel Ferre 3** or comparable (it can be upgraded)
  • Maximum Altitude: 2,720m/8,977ft
  • Minimum Altitude: 2040m/6,727ft
  • Distance: 10km/6.2mls
  • Difficulty: Moderate

Day 5: Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu – Cusco

We leave our hotel after a very early breakfast around 5:30am to take the bus up to the Machu Picchu ruins. Once inside the ruins we provide you with a 2 hour guided tour with plenty of free time for further exploring, pictures and the option to climb Huayna Picchu (has to be booked in advance). Then back to Aguas Calientes and at approximately 2:55pm or 4:00pm, we take our return train to Ollantaytambo with a bus connection to Cusco, arriving  at your hotel around 8.00pm

  • Meal: Breakfast
  • Difficulty: Easy

WHAT IS INCLUDED?

INCLUDED

  • Transfer from the airport to your hotel
  • Pick up at your hotel
  • Private transport from Cusco to Piscacucho (starting point of the trek)
  • 7 kgs of your personal items extra clothes, sleeping bag to be carried by the porters, you  just need to carry your daypack
  • 4 person Igloo tents (large and comfortable) for 2 people and Inflatable mattresses
  • English speaking professional guide experienced in mountains and archeology
  • Meals as indicated in the itinerary (optional vegetarian food with prior request)
  • First-aid kit including emergency oxygen tank
  • Porter to carry tents, food, cooking equipment
  • Hot water for washing purposes
  • Boiled water to fill your bottles
  • Expedition Tourist Train from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo and private transport to Cusco
  • Admission Ticket to the Inca trail
  • Entrance to Machu Picchu Inca citadel
  • Guided tour of Machu Picchu
  • 2 bus tickets from Machu Picchu – Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu
  • Dining and cooking tents with tables and chairs
  • Chef, cooking equipment

NOT INCLUDED

  • Huayna Picchu: US $75 and Machu Picchu Mountain US$75 – will need to be booked way in advance, if you would like to add an extra hike. Please let us know at the time of booking.
  • First breakfast and Last lunch – We will stop at Ollantaytambo for the first breakfast and  have the last lunch at Aguas Calientes after the tour of Machu Picchu.
  • VISTADOME Train to Cusco instead of Expedition Train -This train runs from Aguas Calientes to Cusco (Poroy) and it will cost you US$67 per person extra.
  • Tips for the crew, guide, cook and porters INCA TRAIL HIKE – Our staff receives a fair wage immediately after their trip has ended, tips are optional but greatly appreciated by them.

EXTRAS

  • Sleeping Bag – US$20 per person per trek (It will be clean and warm)
  • Air Mattress – US$20 per person per trek (Therm-a-rest mattresses)
  • Walking Poles – US$15 per pair per trek (Professional Poles that can be extended)
  • Personal tent: US $30 – (Please request when you book your Trek)
  • Additional Night in Aguas Calientes – From US $60 (depending on availability)
  • Vistadome Train Upgrade  – US$67 per person (For the return to Cusco)
  • Huayna Picchu Mountain  – US$75 per person (Please request when you book your Trek)
  • Machu Picchu  Mountain –  US$75 per person  (Please request when you book your Trek)

PRICE

The Inca Trail Trek 5 days is available on any date that is best suited to you  as long as we have a minimum of 2 hikers

  • US$777 per person( Personal porter included)

This price includes the extra porter who will carry your belongings up to 7kgs, we provide you a duffle bag, where you can put your things.

DISCOUNTS

  • 18 to 25 years old: US$30 Information required on student card: name of university, student name, photo of student, expiration date etc. A copy of the card at booking is required & government approval for discount.
  • Under 18 years old: US$30 Please send us a copy of your passport at the time of booking.
  • Under 11 years old: US$40  Please send us a copy of your passport at the time of booking.

EXTRAS

  • Sleeping Bag – US$20 per person per trek (It will be clean and warm)
  • Air Mattress – US$20 per person per trek (Therm-a-rest mattresses)
  • Walking Poles – US$15 per pair per trek (Professional Poles that can be extended)
  • Personal tent: US $30 – (Please request when you book your Trek)
  • Additional Night in Aguas Calientes – From US $60 (depending on availability)
  • Vistadome Train Upgrade  – US$67 per person (For the return to Cusco)
  • Huayna Picchu Mountain  – US$75 per person (Please request when you book your Trek)
  • Machu Picchu  Mountain –  US$75 per person  (Please request when you book your Trek)

ADDED VALUE WITH INCA TRAIL HIKE

  • EXTRA PORTER: you will receive a small duffle bag at your trek briefing held the evening before you start the trek to pack your clothes and sleeping bag for 3-4 days. Your team of porters will carry these bags together with the food and equipment for the trail.
  • HOT SHOWER – only at the 3rd campsite (Wiñaywayna).
  • BOILED WATER – for drinking  included along the Inca Trail.
  • PLASTIC RAIN PONCHO   made by INCA TRAIL HIKE is included.
  • SMALL GROUPS  – average group 4 to 6 with a maximum of 8 hikers.
  • FLUENT ENGLISH SPEAKING GUIDE.
  • DUFFLE BAG – for your belongings.

IF THE CLASSIC INCA TRAIL IS SOLD OUT FOR YOUR DESIRED DATES?

If permits are sold out for the Classic Inca Trail on your preferred date,” don’t get stressed out,” you have so many options that will still allow you to trek and enjoy the Andes on the way to MACHU PICCHU. Alternative treks are just as beautiful as the Inca Trail. They are less crowded because we take you OFF the beaten track” in the Andes and we make sure you don’t miss anything on your trek to MACHU PICCHU.

INCA TRAIL HIKE Requires only a 2 participant minimum for our departures! “You can Chose any day that is best for you as long as we have a minimum of 2 trekkers.”

If you are a single traveller 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.

Important Note: We will buy your Inca Trail trek permit using the names and passport numbers that you send us with your trek booking application (they must to complete and accurate)
You must bring the same passport with you to Cusco and take it with you on the Inca Trail.

Very Important Note: If the name or number on your passport does not match the name and number on the trek permit, the government authorities will not allow you to start the trek and you will not be entitled to a refund.

RENEWAL OR CHANGE OF NAME ON PASSPORT

If you plan to renew or change your name on your passport between making your trek booking and starting your trek, you can book your trek or tour with your current passport number or name, but you mustsend us a copy of your old passport and a copy of your new passport when you have them.  We can then make the change with the government before you arrive.  The extra cost to do the change is US$25 per person. (This will cover the change in number or name for your Inca Trail Permit, Machu Picchu Entrance, and Train.)

If you do not advise us of the change or do not want to pay the fee, bring the original of both passports (the old and new one).  You can enter Peru with your new passport but you must show the government authorities your old passport in order to enter the Inca Trial, Machu Picchu or Train.  “If  you cannot do so, you will not be allowed to start your trek by the government officials. All names and numbers must match!!

QUESTIONS & ANSWERS

“Please read carefully the following information; it will help you answer all of your questions about our services and the trek to Machu Picchu” 

WELCOME TO CUSCO

You will be welcomed at Cusco airport and taken to your hotel, please ensure that you inform us of your full flight details at least 14 days prior to your trek. Look out for our representative holding an orange board INCA TRAIL HIKE at the arrival terminal. You must exit the terminal in order to find our representative (they cannot enter inside) It can be done on any date that is best suited to you!

THE BRIEFING FOR THE CLASSIC INCA TRAIL MACHU PICCHU:

It will take place the night before the trekking departure at 6pm in our office which is located at Garcilaso Street 210 , Office Nº:213 (2and Floor) in the la CASA DEL ABUELO shopping center.

CAN I STORE MY LUGGAGE AT YOUR OFFICE:

Of course! During the  Classic Inca Trail Machu Picchu your main luggage can be store at our office or at your hotel, both are for free. Please don´t  pack anything you will need for your hike.

HOW TO BOOK THE CLASSIC INCA TRAIL MACHU PICCHU?

FIRST, to book your Classic Inca Trail Machu Picchu, we need you to fill out our booking form by clicking on BOOK NOW on our homepage or click here the link BOOK NOW.

Please be ready with the following information (FROM EACH PARTICIPANT in your group).  We cannot purchase the Classic Inca Trail Machu Picchu permit without the following information:

  • Personal information (your full name, exactly as on your passport):
  • Gender
  • Passport number
  • D.OB. (dd / mm / yyyy)
  • Nationality

SECOND, we require a deposit of US$200.00 per person in order to purchase a permit for the Classic Inca Trail Machu Picchu.  You can make you deposit by clicking on the VISA or PAYPAL symbols on the top of our home page, or you can click on the VISA or PAYPAL symbols on our booking page or click here on the payment of your choice, either VISA or PAYPAL.

WHAT ABOUT THE BALANCE?

It would be greatly appreciated if you pay in cash at our office (US dollars or Peruvian soles) here in Cusco. We have many cash machines in the historical center to withdraw money.  You can also pay by VISA or PAYPAL online but you will have to pay a 5.5% service charge, charged by VISA and PAYPAL.  To pay your balance through PAYPAL, you need to log into your PAYPAL account using our email address of info@incatrailhikeperu.com. 

HOW DO I QUALIFY FOR THE STUDENT DISCOUNT?

  1. According to Peruvian Law you must be under 18 years of age at the time of your trek, tour, or visit to Machu Picchu (students 18 & above need student cards). For example if you book a trek at the age of 17 but you turn 18 before you do your trek, you do not qualify for a student discount.
  2. All students from 11 to 17 years, the discount is $30.
  3. For children from the age of 2 to 11 the discount is $40.
  4. For children from the age of 0 to 2 are free.
  5. All students must provide a copy of their passport at the time of their booking to get the student discount.
  6. Send us a copy at info@incatrailhikeperu.com

MAY I CHANGE THE DEPARTURE DATE AFTER THE TICKETS HAVE BEEN BOUGHT?

Unfortunately the answer is “No”. Once the tickets have been bought the government does not allow any changes, so we can’t change any departure date after the ticket has been bought. Tickets are  also not transferable nor refundable.
If you cancel your Classic Inca Trail Machu Picchu Trek, the deposit is not refundable at all!

DO I NEED MY ORIGINAL PASSPORT ON CLASSIC THE INCA TRAIL MACHU PICCHU?

Yes for sure! 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 Machu Picchu permit. The rangers will check every day and when you enter Machu Picchu. The train company will also check your passport before allowing you to board the train. In case you are renewing your passport, go ahead and send us your old number to secure your permit, and we can change it when you get your new passport number…if so, please send the new passport number as soon as possible.

WHAT IS THE WEATHER LIKE IN CLASSIC THE INCA TRAIL MACHU PICCHU?

First I would say that the weather is very unpredictable and it’s difficult to foresee.  BUT you will have many different varieties of weather as you pass through the numerous microclimates and will depend on the location. We highly recommend you to bring some warm clothes and good rain gear in your day backpack.

WHAT ABOUT ALTITUDE SICKNESS?

In general if you have regular exercise and spend a couple of days in Cusco, or in the Sacred Valley for acclimatisation to the altitude, you may be fine.

The recommended medicine 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.

We offer the Cusco City Tour or Sacred Valley Tour that you can book while you are acclimatizing.  Check out our Day Tours on our Home Page.

HOW MANY PEOPLE ARE THERE PER GROUP?

The maximum group size is 8 persons. Usually our groups are between 2-6 persons. INCA TRAIL HIKE specializes in SMALL and PRIVATE groups and provides personalized service

HOW MANY COOKS/PORTERS FOR THE GROUP?

You will have 1 cook per group. The number of porters depends of 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.

DUFFEL BAG AND SMALL BACK PACK 

The evening before you start your Classic Inca Trail Machu Picchu trek, you will be given a SMALL DUFFLE 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 duffle bag for you, together with the food and camping gear. It’s important to be aware that you will not have access to your items in the duffle bag until the end of each day, as the porters will always be ahead of the group. During the Classic Inca Trail Machu Picchu, you 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. Usually a 30 to 50 litre backpack is sufficient.

IS THE TREK DIFFICULT, DO I NEED TO BE FIT?

The Classic Inca Trail Machu Picchu is a 42km (24.4 mile) hike through the Andes in the Cusco region. The maximum altitude reached is 4,217m/13,907ft. On the second day of the trek we 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 exercise regularly.
In preparation: try walking 15kms in a day or go to a fitness club in the months leading up to the trek. It is also important to be well acclimatised to the altitude. Try to spend at least 2 or 3 days in Cusco (3350m/11,047ft) prior to starting the Classic Inca Trail Machu Picchu.

ARE THERE TOILETS ON THE CLASSIC TRAIL TRAIL MACHU PICCHU?

It has been a highlight for most of our clients, especially by the female ones who want a private, clean and sanitary toilet! INCA TRAIL HIKE 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.

WHAT HAPPENS IF I AM UNABLE TO FINISH THE TRAIL?

In the scenario that you are unable to finish the Classic Inca Trail Machu Picchu due to a health reasons, INCA TRAIL HIKE will assist you to the nearest town for help with transportation. We always carry oxygen on the trek for any respiratory problems. In extreme cases, a helicopter pick up can be arranged at your own expense. (Travel insurance required). There are no refunds in the unlikely situation that you are unable to finish the Classic Inca Trail to Machu Picchu.
Generally those who have to be assisted off the trail are taken to Ollantaytambo and if they recover quickly they continue the journey to Aguas Calientes (cost incurred by trekker) and visit Machu Picchu according to the original plan.

ARE WE DROPPED AT OUR HOTEL AFTER THE CLASSIC INCA TRAIL MACHU PICCHU?

Absolutely! Included in our packages is dropping you off at your hotel on the return from your trek or tour. If you have booked your hotel in the Sacred Valley like Ollantaytambo or Urubamba, we will drop you off there too!
If you spend the night at Ollantaytambo before the trek, we will pick you up from there.

AT WHAT TIME IS THE TRAIN’S DEPARTURE?

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 from the train. Therefore you will take the train at 4:22pm. With this train schedule, you will have more than 9 hours to enjoy Machu Picchu

VISTADOME TRAIN UPGRADE; HOW MUCH IS IT?

 You may upgrade to Vistadome train which has slightly nicer seats, panoramic windows and ceiling. You will be offered some snacks and a dance show will take place on board. The price is US$67 per person which includes the transfer from Poroy (Cusco) train station to your hotel in Cusco. It is 2 hours by train from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo and then another 2 hours from Ollantaytambo to Cusco by bus. If you upgrade to the Vistadome Train, the trip from Aguas Calientes to Poroy (Cusco), takes 3.5 hours, and than 25mins by taxi to your hotel. Usually our clients are back at their hotel by 8pm. If you plan to take the bus to Puno on the same night, that is totally possible.

TIPPING

If you’re happy with the services provided, a tip – though not compulsory – is appropriate. While it may not be customary to you, 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 INCA TRAIL HIKE destinations. Of course you are free to tip what you feel is appropriate, 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.

ARE YOU SUSTAINABLE? 

Yes, we are a local sustainable & responsible tourism operator in that we incorporate the 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 staff to know, understand and respect the local places and it´s people.

PACKING LIST

WHAT YOU HAVE TO TAKE WITH YOU

  • Original Passport (it has to be the same as the one used for booking your trek)
  • Valid, GREEN ISIC card (if you booked as a student)
  • Good daypack (the smaller, the better)
  • Water storage:  2-3 litre Camelbaks are encouraged.
  • Comfortable hiking boots with ankle support
  • Sleeping bag (can be rented from INCA TRAIL HIKE)
  • Headlamp: essential
  • Toiletpaper

WHAT TO PUT IN THE DUFFLE BAG

As a Professional Direct Local Tour operator we provide you with a duffle bag at your briefing and  INCLUDE an extra porter who will carry up to 7 kgs or 15 pounds including your 2.5kg sleeping bag, mattress and extra clothing.

  • 2 t-shirts
  • 2 hiking pants at least
  • 4 sets of undergarments
  • 3 sets of hiking socks
  • Couple Fleece/ Thermals
  • Warm clothes, down jacket — 2nd campsite temp around 3º Celcious.
  • Waterproof gloves (even if they are ski gloves, take them)
  • Comfortable shoes for camp
  • Quickdry towel. We provide small ones, you might prefer something larger.
  • Small bottle of soap: we provide warm water each day to wash.
  • Battery Charger: No electricity along the trek
  • Large plastic bags will be provided at the office — Please ask for them.
  • Sleeping bag: It has to be at least -15ºC – This can be rented from us for US$20.

TOILETRIES

  • Face moisturizer
  • Hand Sanitizer
  • Wet wipes
  • Toothbrush and paste
  • Personal medications
  • First aid kit: band aids, moleskin, etc.

WHAT TO PUT IN THE DAY BACKPACK

We highly recommend a small backpack 30 to 40 Litres for hiking in the day. A big backpack will not be allowed into Machu Picchu. The remainder of your belongings will be in your duffel bag at camp.

  • Water: Please supply your own water until the first lunch spot, then we will provide you with cold boiled water  at every meal time. Please bring your canteens.
  • Sun Hat
  • Sunscreen
  • Headlamp: essential
  • Wool Hat
  • Rain gear
  • Fleece
  • Snacks like chocolate bars, cereal bars or any dry fruits
  • Coca leaves.
  • Rain plastic poncho (provided by INCA TRAIL HIKE)
  • Gloves
  • Camera
  • Hand sanitiser
  • Toilet paper and small plastic bag for waste
  • Extra Money for Souvenirs, Drinks & Tips
  • Value things

Gallery 5 Day Inca Trail to Machu Picchu

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