Full itinerary of the Inca Trail 5 days 4 nights - Extended version

Day 1: Cusco – KM 82 – Wayllabamba

We'll pick you up at your hotel in Cusco at 5:00 am and drive to Km 82. On the way, we'll stop at Ollantaytambo for breakfast and last-minute shopping. Then, we'll drive to the trailhead, get ready for the Inca Trail Tour, and start hiking to the checkpoint, where you'll need to show your original passport. After the checkpoint, you'll begin your 4-hour trek along the Urubamba river, visiting local villages and beautiful archaeological sites such as Llactapata, an important administrative, political, and economic Inca Site located at the foot of a mountain.

After that, we'll have lunch in the charming village of Tarayoc, where our chef will prepare delicious buffet meals with fresh local products for us. Then, we'll take a 2-hour trek along the left bank of the Cusichaca river until we arrive at Wayllabamba. There, we'll camp near the villagers. When you get there, you'll find your tents all ready and waiting for you! Your team will also have warm water ready for you to wash with, prepare your bed, enjoy tea time and dinner, and go to sleep in our comfortable tents.

• Hiking Distance: 13 km / 8 miles
• Duration: 6 Hours
• Wayllabamba Campsite Altitude: 3,000 m / 9,843 ft
• Highest Altitude: 3,000 m / 9,843 ft
• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
• Accommodation: Camping
• Difficulty: Moderate

Day 2: Wayllabamba – Dead Woman’s Pass – Pacaymayo

Wake up early in your tent with a cup of coffee or coca tea, have a nutritious breakfast, and get ready for the most challenging day of our Inca Trail 5 days 4 nights: the climb to the Warmiwañusca mountain at 4,215 m (13,829 ft). The day will start with a 4-hour hike to our lunch place at Llulluchapampa at 3,800 m (12,467 ft). Along the way, you'll experience different micro-climates, such as the cloud forest with its lush vegetation, flowers, and hummingbirds, along the ancient Inca Trail paved with stones over 500 years old.

After a delicious lunch, we'll begin the final 2-hour climb to the summit of Warmiwañusca Mountain (Dead Woman’s Pass), the highest point of the Inca Trail tour. As we take in the breathtaking views and regroup, your guide will share the significance of these high places and perform a special ritual to express our gratitude to the local gods for allowing us to pass safely. The last part of the day is a 2-hour downhill to the Pacaymayo Alto campsite at 3,650 m (11,975 ft).

• Hiking Distance: 10 km / 6.2 miles
• Duration: 6 Hours
• Pacaymayo Campsite Altitude: 3,650 m / 11,975 ft
• Highest Altitude: 4,215 m / 13,829 ft
• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
• Accommodation: Camping
• Difficulty: Challenging

Day 3: Pacaymayo – Runkuraqay – Phuyupatamarca

After breakfast, you'll begin your ascent up the second mountain, Runkuraqay, which sits at an impressive 4,000 meters (13,123 feet). On the way, you'll get to visit an archaeological site with the same name, where you'll enjoy beautiful views of mountains, waterfalls, lakes, and the stunning views of the Vilcabamba Mountain range. Once you reach the top, you'll have time to rest and explore the surroundings.

Then, we'll descend into the cloud forest, where the third campsite is nestled at 3,680 m (12,073 ft) on top of the mountain, Phuyupatamarca. Along the way, you'll get to visit Sayacmarca and Conchamarca, where you'll be amazed by the lush vegetation covering the Inca Trail. When you arrive at the campsite, you'll have the chance to enjoy the most spectacular sunset over the Vilcabamba mountain range. It's the perfect night to stargaze!

• Hiking Distance: 14 km / 8.7 miles
• Duration: 8 Hours
• Phuyupatamarca Campsite Altitude: 3,680 m / 12,073 ft
• Highest Altitude: 4,000 m / 13,123 ft
• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
• Accommodation: Camping
• Difficulty: Moderate

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

Waking up early is not a pain on the Inca Trail in Peru! You'll be amazed by the sunrise over the Inca Trail, and after breakfast with those unforgettable mountain views, you'll have a guided tour of Phuyupatamarca, a beautiful archaeological site near the campsite. Then, start your descent down the stone steps to Intipata (Place of the Sun), where you'll be treated to singular views of the Urubamba river and the mountains. After a restful break, we'll head to Wiñaywayna, an archaeological site that's not only the largest but also one of the most beautiful, standing at an impressive 8,694 feet (2,659 meters). Your knowledgeable and friendly tour guide will take you to explore the impressive terraces, temples, and urban areas. You'll also enjoy the beautiful views of the Urubamba river as you learn about the Incan history. And to top it off, the team is preparing a special last lunch just for you.

You'll have the chance to sing a friendly farewell song (tipping is optional), and then, after saying goodbye to your new friends, you'll begin the final part of the Inca Trail. First, you'll enjoy a 1-hour hike to Sun Gate, where you'll be treated to the first and most impressive view of the magnificent city of Machu Picchu. After taking in the views and enjoying some quiet time, we'll start our descent into the citadel. We'll arrive in the late afternoon, giving us a special opportunity to experience Machu Picchu, touring it through Circuit 1 with fewer crowds. We'll visit just the upper part, take a bus down to Aguas Calientes, have dinner in a local restaurant, and spend the night in a 3-star hotel (Hotel Ferre Machu Picchu or similar).

• Hiking Distance: 12 km / 7.4 miles
• Duration: 8 Hours
• Aguas Calientes Altitude: 2,040 m / 6,690 ft
• Highest Altitude: 3,680 m / 12,073 ft
• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
• Accommodation: Hotel Ferre Machu Picchu or similar
• Difficulty: Moderate

Day 5: Machu Picchu (The Lost City of the Incas) – Cusco

After an early breakfast at your hotel, hop on the first bus to Machu Picchu and get ready for an unforgettable day. Once at the checkpoint, present your original passport and step into the heart of the Inca Empire. Discover the most impressive areas of the citadel during a guided tour through Circuit 3 that lasts about 3 hours. Then, enjoy some free time to take photos or, if you booked in advance, hike up Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain for incredible panoramic views. After soaking in the magic of this wonder, head back down to Aguas Calientes by bus, enjoy lunch (not included), and board the scenic Vistadome train to Ollantaytambo. From there, a private van will take you back to Cusco, with arrival at your Cusco hotel around 7:30 pm.

• Guided Tour Duration: 3 hours
• Machu Picchu Site Altitude: 2,430 m / 7,972 ft
• Meals: Breakfast
• Difficulty: Easy

*Campsite locations might change depending on availability and the final campsite assignment.

Price for this 5-day Inca Trail hike

We organize small group tours to ensure a personalized and intimate travel experience. For those traveling with a large party or seeking an exclusive adventure, we offer a private Inca Trail 5D/4N - relaxed version, tailored specifically to your preferences. Contact us today, and we'll provide a customized price and design the perfect tour to meet your needs, ensuring an unforgettable journey.

Price per person

• From US$ 890 - Adults
• From US$ 850 - Children and students
• 4+ Travelers, contact us to get a special price

Student discount

• US$40 off

Applies to all travelers under 17 and students under 25 with a valid university ID. To get the discount, the ID must include:

• Student name, photo, and university name.
• Have a valid expiration date (expired IDs will not be accepted)
• ISIC cards are not valid.

The discount is applied automatically for children. For students, you must submit a copy of your student ID when booking; if your ID is rejected, you will be charged the adult rate.

Booking and payment

• Deposit: US$200 per person (to reserve your spot). The remainder can be paid online or at our office in Cusco, using any credit card, PayPal, or wire transfer. Contact us to see alternative payment options.
• The following information is required from the passenger: Full name as it appears on the passport (no nicknames), passport number, date of birth, expiration date, and nationality.
• Vegetarians, vegans, and dietary restrictions must be communicated in advance.

Before you book

• Check your desired dates for the Inca Trail carefully in our Inca Trail availability 2026 calendar and book now!
• Your passport must be valid and have at least 6 months' validity from the date of your entry into Peru.
• Get physically ready and keep in good condition for the walk.

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• Choquequirao Trek 5 Days 4 Nights
• Lares Trek and Short Inca Trail 5 Days
• Machu Picchu Tour & Rainbow Mountain 5 Days

Packing List of 5-day Inca Trail - Relaxed version

During your 5 days Inca Trail hike adventure with TreXperience, your belongings will be split between two bags. To make sure you're fully prepared for the journey, we’ve put together this complete Packing List with everything you’ll need along the way!

Essentials

• Comfortable, high-top hiking shoes.
• Hiking pants.
• Sweatshirts.
• Polo shirts.
• Sun hat.
• Raincoat.

What to pack in the daypack

A trusty daypack is your best companion on the Inca Trail. This legendary Inca Trail tour is full of steep climbs, countless steps, and ever-changing weather, so having your essentials within easy reach will make a big difference. You'll use your daypack to carry everything you’ll need during the hike each day while the rest of your luggage goes with the porters.

Here’s what you should always have in your daypack:

• Original passport: Keep it in a dry, secure pocket.
• Water: Bring at least 2 liters in a reusable container.
• Snacks: Chocolate, energy bars, and nuts to keep your energy up.
• Sunscreen: The sun can be strong at high altitudes, so keep it handy.
• Rain gear: TreXperience provides a plastic poncho, but a lightweight rain jacket can also help.
• Basic first aid kit: Include any personal medication, band-aids, and insect repellent.
• Toilet paper: Pack it in a plastic bag to keep it dry.
• Extra cash: Around 400 soles is a good amount, preferably in small bills.

What to pack in the duffle bag

For your Inca Trail tour, TreXperience will provide you with a duffle bag to pack all your gear for the 5 days Inca Trail hike adventure to Machu Picchu. Keep in mind there's a weight limit of 7 kg, so it's important to pack smart and light.

Here’s what we recommend bringing:

• Comfortable clothing: The weather changes a lot along the trail, so layering is key. Go for breathable clothes that allow easy movement and won’t cause discomfort while hiking.
• Hiking boots or shoes: Make sure they’re worn-in and ready for long days on the trail.
• Sandals or flip-flops: Great for relaxing at the campsite after a long hike.
• Jacket or windbreaker: Even if the sun is out during the day, the nights can be cold.
• Hiking pants: Zip-off pants are ideal, giving you the flexibility to switch to shorts when it gets warm.
• Shirts: T-shirts or lightweight long-sleeve shirts are perfect for sun protection.
• Hat or bandana: To shield your face and neck from the sun.
• Sunscreen and lip balm: The high-altitude sun can be intense.
• Toiletries: Don’t forget essentials like toilet paper and wet wipes.

Important Facts about the Inca Trail 5-day trek

The Inca Trail to Machu Picchu (5 days) is a renowned multi-day hike. Built in the 15th century, it forms part of the Qhapaq Ñan, the Andean road network that connected the Inca Empire across what is now Colombia, Ecuador, Peru, Bolivia, Chile, and Argentina. Cusco served as the empire’s political and ceremonial capital. The Classic route to Machu Picchu covers about 49 km (30 miles) of this network.

Elevation gain

Across the full route, you’ll climb roughly 3,000 ft (about 914 m). The trail’s highest point is Dead Woman’s Pass at 4,215 m (13,829 ft). Most of the ascent happens early on: around 1,000 ft (305 m) on Day 1 and about 800 ft (244 m) on Day 2. After that, the trail eases a bit, though there are still rolling ups and downs.

Highest point

Dead Woman’s Pass is the top of the route at 4,215 m (13,829 ft). The name comes from the outline of the surrounding ridgeline, which resembles a woman lying on her back. Expect steep climbs and descents on this section.

Inca Trail 5 days - extended version FAQs

Trekking the Inca Trail is an unforgettable adventure, but we know it comes with lots of questions. How long does it take? What should you pack? To help you get ready, we’ve put together a list of the most frequently asked questions about this Inca Trail and Machu Picchu itinerary 5 days.