Full Itinerary of the Ultimate Inca Trail 5 days 4 nights to Machu Picchu

Day 1: Cusco – Ollantaytambo – Km 88 – Chamana

Get ready for the adventure of a lifetime as we begin our journey at an early hour. At 5:00 am, we'll pick you up from your hotel in Cusco or in the Sacred Valley, and off we'll go on a 2-hour adventure to kilometer 82. On the way, we'll make a stop at Ollantaytambo to have a delicious breakfast with great views. Then, we'll begin the trek! While other groups will cross the Urubamba River to the left bank, we'll begin our adventure by hiking along the river's right bank, visiting the incredible sites of Salapunku, K'anabamba, and Machu Q'ente.

After a 3-hour hike, we'll arrive at the control point of Km 88 – Q'oriwayrachina, where you'll show your passports and cross the river using a hanging bridge with Inca foundations. Then, we'll have a delicious lunch in Chamana, where our campsite is located. Later in the afternoon, our knowledgeable tour guide will take you to the awe-inspiring Inca Site of Wayna Q'ente, a unique Inca Site located in the middle of the mountain, offering spectacular views of the valley and the mountains. We'll camp in the charming village of Chamana, right near the awe-inspiring Inca Site of Patallacta.

• Hiking Distance: 13 km / 8 mi
• Duration: 7 hours
• Campsite Altitude: 2,200 m / 7,218 ft
• Highest Altitude: 2,790 m / 9,153 ft
• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
• Accommodation: Camping
• Difficulty: Moderate

Day 2: Chamana – Patallacta – Wayllabamba – Llulluchapampa

After a delicious breakfast prepared by your trekking chef, you'll start your day by visiting the impressive Inca Site of Patallacta. Most hikers will be back to km 82, but we'll stay there and have the place all to ourselves. Next, we'll hike along the beautiful Cusichaca River until Wayllabamba Village, where we'll visit the fascinating Patawasi and enjoy a deserved lunch.

The second part of the trek is even more thrilling as we'll climb to our second campsite in Llulluchapampa. The final stretch is a treat, with diverse ecosystems that will blow your mind, including a thick cloud forest with an abundance of flowers and birds.

• Hiking Distance: 12 km / 7,4 mi
• Duration: 8 hours
• Campsite Altitude: 3,800 m / 12,467 ft
• Highest Altitude: 3,800 m / 12,467 ft
• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
• Accommodation: Camping
• Difficulty: Moderate

Day 3: Llulluchapampa – Runkuraqay – Phuyupatamarca

This day, we'll begin our journey with an invigorating climb to Warmiwañuska or the Dead Woman Pass, the highest point of the Inca Trail at 4,215 m (13,829 ft). Here, you'll have the opportunity to take in breathtaking views before continuing your journey for an invigorating two-hour hike to Pacaymayo Alto, where you'll savor a well-deserved lunch.

Then, we'll begin the second part of our journey with a thrilling 2-hour climb to the Inca Trail second pass, the Runkuraqay Pass, which sits at an impressive 4,000 m (13,123 ft). After that, we'll continue for three more hours to the final campsite at Phuyupatamarca (3,680 m / 12,073 ft). During the day, you'll have the incredible opportunity to explore the ancient Inca sites of Runkuraqay, Sayacmarca, and Conchamarca. And the views of the Salkantay and Vilcabamba mountains will be breathtaking.

• Hiking Distance: 12 km / 7,4 mi
• Duration: 10 hours
• Campsite Altitude: 3,680 m / 12,073 ft
• Highest Altitude: 4,215 m / 13,829 ft
• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
• Accommodation: Camping
• Difficulty: Challenging

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

Awaken to the most breathtaking campsite of the route, where you can sip a steaming cup of coffee or tea while taking in the awe-inspiring sight of the sunrise. Today's route is mostly downhill along the cobblestone trail, making for an easy and enjoyable descent. You'll have the opportunity to explore the incredible Inca Sites of Phuyupatamarca, Intipata, and Wiñaywayna before lunch.

After a hearty lunch in Wiñaywayna, where you'll have the chance to bid farewell to your fellow porters, we'll set off on a one-hour hike to the breathtaking Sun Gate (Intipunku). From there, we'll be treated to the first and most amazing view of Machu Picchu with the sunset. Then, we will begin a short tour along Circuit 1, visiting the highest parts of the Inca citadel to get the best photos. Finally, we'll spend the night in a hotel in Aguas Calientes Town (also known as Machu Picchu Pueblo), where we'll have the chance to explore this incredible town during the day.

• Hiking Distance: 11 km / 6,8 mi
• Duration: 7 hours
• Aguas Calientes Altitude: 2,040 m / 6,693 ft
• Highest Altitude: 3,680 m / 12,073 ft
• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
• Accommodation: Ferre Machu Picchu or Similar
• Difficulty: Moderate

Day 5: Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu – Ollantaytambo – Cusco

After breakfast in the hotel, we'll hop on the first bus to Machu Picchu and explore the Inca Citadel at its best time. Your expert tour guide will escort you through circuit 3 to visit the most incredible places, like the awe-inspiring Inca terraces, temples, and palaces. And if you're feeling extra adventurous, after the Machu Picchu tour, you can join an optional hike to Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain. (Entrances not included)

After Machu Picchu, we'll board the Vistadome Panoramic train to Ollantaytambo. And, don't worry about getting back to your hotel in Cusco because our transportation will be waiting for you to move to your hotel. The estimated arrival time in Cusco is around 7:30 p.m., ensuring enough time to take a deserved bath, a nap, or a tasty dinner. A perfect end to an unforgettable day.

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

Price for the 5 days Inca Trail hike Ultimate

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 extreme Inca Trail 5D/4N, 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$ 30 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.

How to book

To book this tour: 

1. Click on the BOOK NOW button, choose your travel date, and select the tour option of your choice (group or private service).
2. Fill in all the requested details with your passport data. In this step, you can also choose your type of room in the hotel in Aguas Calientes. If you can hire a sleeping bag, an air mattress, or trekking poles with us, this is the moment, too.
3. Finally, enter your credit/debit card details and make the payment.
4. Our team will contact you shortly to reconfirm your payment and give you more information.

Similar tours you might be interested in

• 5-Day Luxury Inca Trail to Machu Picchu
• Salkantay Trek 5 Days to Machu Picchu
• Choquequirao Trek 5 Days 4 Nights
• Lares Trek and Short Inca Trail 5 Days
• Machu Picchu Tour & Rainbow Mountain 5 Days

What to bring in the Exclusive 5 days Inca Trail hike to Machu Picchu

Getting ready for your Inca Trail tour? Whether you're planning to hike the Inca Path for the first time or preparing for the full experience, packing right is key. Here's a list of essential items to bring along for a safe, comfortable, and unforgettable adventure.

Essentials

• Comfortable, high-top hiking shoes
• Hiking pants
• Sweatshirts
• Shirts
• Sun hat
• Raincoat
• Shorts
• Warm jacket

What to pack in the daypack during the hike?

During your trek, carrying a small daypack with essentials is crucial. Since the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu involves long hours of hiking each day, having water, snacks, a rain jacket, sunscreen, and other basics on hand ensures you're comfortable and prepared at every step of the journey.

• Original passport: You will need it to enter Machu Picchu. Please check that it is not expired or has a distant expiration date.
• Plastic Ponchos: TreXperience will provide you with a reusable plastic poncho for the rain.
• Sunscreen: You will hike in open spaces exposed to direct sunlight; bring the correct sunscreen or buy it in Cusco before heading for the trek. Also, get some lip protectors.
• Toilet paper: You will find a toilet from the locals; you must always carry toilet paper in your backpack.
• Insect repellent: Apply insect repellent every day and wear long sleeves.
• One rain jacket and one warm/winter jacket: The temperature will be icy in the first two nights; keep a jacket while hiking.
• Snacks: We recommend bringing energy bars, granolas, chocolate, and candies.
• Water container: You need a container of at least 2 liters of water: camel bag, a reusable bottle.
• Flashlight or headlamp: You must walk around the camp and use the restroom.
• Hat and sunglasses: For daytime and early mornings, bring a sun hat with a neck cover, gloves, and a beanie.
• Extra Money in cash: Bring around 600 soles (200 USD); make sure to have some small coins. This is emergency money, and you will not spend all of it.
• Personal medication: Bring band-aids, Diamox, Pepto, Ibuprofen, Imodium, motion sickness pills, and feminine products.
• Devices: Cameras, cellphones for photos. Portable batteries.

What to pack in the duffel bag

For your trek, TreXperience will provide you with a duffel bag to store everything you don't need for your day-to-day hike (For this purpose, you'll have your day pack where you carry your daily essential things). Our porters will be in charge of carrying your duffel bag from camp to camp.

Remember that the weight limit is 7 kg in each duffle bag, so travel light, bringing only the essentials for your Inca Trail tour 5 days to Machu Picchu, and prepare for the journey of a lifetime.

• Sleeping bag: The first 2 nights on the Inca route can be below 0 degrees Celsius; you will need a suitable sleeping bag that can withstand -10 degrees Celsius. You can also bring your own or rent it from us.
• Hiking Boots: Lightweight and waterproof; we strongly recommend hiking boots instead of sports shoes. Please ensure you have used them before to avoid blisters.
• Sandals: After a long day hike, you must wear light clothes and shoes at the campsite. For this reason, we recommend that you wear sneakers or sandals.
• 6 pairs of wool hiking socks: To use with trekking boots.
• 3 pairs of light socks: You will wear them at night or walk around in sandals at the campsite.
• 5+ pairs of underwear: Just in case, please bring more things in case they get wet.
• 2 or 3 hiking pants: Breathable. Ladies' leggings are also perfect.
• 1 Sweatpants: For the evenings and early morning
• 5 sets of T-shirts: Long-sleeved shirts are better
• Trekking poles: We strongly recommend bringing your own or renting them from us.
• Inflatable mattresses: We provide foam mattresses; however, you can bring or rent air mattresses for more comfort.

Important Facts about this Ultimate route Inca Trail

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.

FAQs Ultimate Inca Trail 5 day tour 

Planning your Inca Path tour? We know you may have lots of questions before starting this unforgettable journey. In this section, you'll find answers to the most common questions about this Ultimate Inca Trail tour for 5 days, covering everything from permits and packing tips to what to expect along the way.