Embark on the Luxury Inca Trail 5 days 4 nights adventure to Machu Picchu, where history meets comfort in the heart of the Andes Mountains. This one-of-a-kind experience blends thrilling exploration, fascinating Inca heritage, and the finest luxury touches, creating memories you’ll treasure forever.

Luxury Inca Trail 5 Days: The Ultimate Adventure in Style

Trek the ancestral path of the 5-Day Luxury Inca Trail Machu Picchu, an immersive scenic adventure full of incredible views and spectacular archaeological treasures. You'll be fully immersed in the natural landscapes of the Andes Mountains and the High Amazon. Enjoy the best of Peruvian hospitality, complete with world-class, seamless service from start to finish.

Tour Highlights:

  • Double the Magic at Machu Picchu: Witness both sunset and sunrise over the ancient citadel.
  • On-Trail Wellness: Rejuvenate with daily Inca massages and connect with nature through a spiritual Pachamama ceremony.
  • Five-Star Camping: Unwind on comfortable, wide cots, private hot showers, and a cozy dining area for complete relaxation.
  • Peruvian Gourmet Cuisine: Savor exceptional, Peruvian gourmet meals prepared daily by a master chef.
  • Exclusive Team: A dedicated team of professional guides, expert chefs, and skilled porters ensures your trek is unforgettable.

Luxury Inca Trail Trek 5 Days at a Glance

Day 1: Cusco – Km 88 – Chamana

We’ll pick you up at 5:00 am and drive to Ollantaytambo for breakfast. Then well continue to km 88, from this trailhead, we start the Inca Trail, visiting local communities and key archaeological sites such as Salapunku, K’anabamba, Machu Q’ente, Q’oriwayrachina, and Wayna Q’ente, before camping near the Patallacta Inca complex.

Day 2: Chamana – Wayllabamba – Llulluchapampa

After breakfast, we follow the narrow Kusichaca Valley with stops at several Inca sites, then continue to Wayllabamba for lunch. In the afternoon, a steady climb brings us to our second campsite at Llulluchapampa, with broad views of Huayanay Mountain and queuña (Polylepis) woodlands.

Day 3: Llulluchapampa – Runkuraqay – Phuyupatamarca

After breakfast, we hike for about two hours up to Warmiwañuska (Dead Woman’s Pass) at 4,215 m / 13,829 ft (the highest point of the route) then descend toward Runkuraqay (4,000 m / 13,123 ft). Along the way, we explore sites like Runkuracay, Sayacmarca, and Qonchamarka before camping at Phuyupatamarca, a notable viewpoint on the Inca Trail.

Day 4: Phuyupatamarca – Wiñaywayna – Machu Picchu Pueblo

Phuyupatamarca offers the best panoramas on the entire Inca Trail Luxury Tour, highlighted by a spectacular sunrise over the mountains. Then, we’ll begin a 6-hour Machu Picchu luxury hiking tours. You will visit the Intipata Inca site, Wiñaywayna, and arrive at the Sun Gate and enter by Circuit 1, from where you will have a unique view of Machu Picchu (entering via Circuit 1). Spend the night in a hotel in Aguas Calientes.

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

After breakfast, you'll take the first bus to Machu Picchu. The 2 to 3 hour guided tour follows Circuit 3, ensuring you visit the citadel’s important buildings and key streets. Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain (optional). Buffet lunch in the restaurant Tinkuy (Sanctuary Lodge hotel). Later, take the exclusive panoramic train back to Cusco.


Included:

  • Safety briefing the day before the tour
  • Pick up from your hotel on the morning of the tour
  • All transportation during the duration of the trek
  • Bus down to Aguas Calientes from Machu Picchu
  • Panoramic exclusive train on the last day to come back to Cusco
  • Professional, highly trained mountain tour guides
  • Entrance ticket to Inca Trail and Machu Picchu
  • Experienced chefs and porters
  • Last day buffet lunch in Machu Picchu at Tinkuy restaurant
  • All meals during the trek with local ingredients
  • 3 nights camping in the mountains with luxury equipment
  • Airbed, camping cots, and all camping equipment
  • One night 4-star hotel in Aguas Calientes (Mapi or similar)
  • Large, well-appointed sleeping and dining tents
  • Hot showers and private toilet tents
  • Duffel bags up to 10 kilos for your stuff to be carried by porters

Not Included:

  • Travel Insurance
  • First breakfast and last day dinner

Machu Picchu Circuit Included

  • Circuit 1-C: Through this route all Inca Trail hikers arrive at Machu Picchu. It allows you to visit the lower observatory, the upper observatory, the Sun Gate, and the possibility of having 360° views of Machu Picchu!
  • Circuit 3-B: Access to the lower part of Machu Picchu, where you can explore the Temple of the Sun, the Twelve Niches, the Warehouses, the Temple of the Condor, and the Water Mirrors.

The combination of these circuits will provide you with a fuller Machu Picchu experience. The Ministry of Culture set 3 routes to spread visitor flow, reduce erosion, and avoid crowding. Learn more in our Machu Picchu Entrances & Circuits 2026.


Optional hikes after the Machu Picchu Tour

You can only hike one of these mountains, and it is done after the guided tour in Machu Picchu. Advance booking is required for both hikes.


Why book with TreXperience?

  • Local Expert: Get the best prices and best service with a 100% Peruvian company.
  • Expert Tour Guides: Our tour guides are professionals and fluent in English.
  • Our Porters: At TreXperience, we set the highest standard for our porter welfare on the Inca Trail.
  • Food on the Inca Trail: The food we provide during our Inca Trail treks is always of high quality and great variety.
  • High-Quality Equipment: We provide high-quality camping gear.
  • Sustainable Practices: We are committed to minimize environmental in our services.
  • Panoramic Trains: Panoramic return train (Vistadome or 360°) is included.

Full Itinerary of the Luxury Inca Trail Trek 5 Days

Day 1: Cusco – Ollantaytambo – Chamana

We’ll collect you at 5:00 am from your hotel in Cusco or the Sacred Valley and drive about two hours toward Km 88, stopping in Ollantaytambo for breakfast with valley views. From the trailhead, we start our 5-day Ultimate Inca Trail with TreXperience along the right bank of the Urubamba River, visiting Salapunku, K’anabamba, and Machu Q’ente. After roughly three hours, we reach the Km 88 (Q’oriwayrachina) checkpoint (have your passport ready) then cross the river via a suspension bridge built on Inca foundations. Lunch is served in Chamana, where our campsite sits. In the afternoon, your guide leads a short hike to Wayna Q’ente, an Inca site set on the mountainside with sweeping views of the valley. We camp near the Patallacta complex in the village of Chamana.

  • Campsite altitude: 2200 m / 7217 ft.
  • Highest altitude: 2790 m / 9153 ft.
  • Duration: 7 hours
  • Distance: 13 km / 8 miles
  • Meals: Breakfast, lunch, snacks, tea time, dinner
  • Accommodation: Camping, massage, and drinks available
  • Difficulty: Easy to moderate

Day 2: Chamana – Patallacta – Wayllabamba – Llulluchapampa

We will wake you up bright and early with a hot cup of coffee or coca tea. We begin with a visit to the impressive Patallacta ruins, often with few other hikers around. We then follow the scenic Cusichaca River to Wayllabamba Village, stopping to enjoy a well-earned lunch. The afternoon brings a steady climb to our second campsite at Llulluchapampa, passing diverse ecosystems, including lush cloud forest rich in flowers and birdlife, and opening to wide views of Mt. Huayanay and native queuña (Polylepis) woodland.

  • Campsite altitude: 3800 m / 12467 ft
  • Highest altitude: 3800 m / 12467 ft
  • Distance: 12 km / 7.4 miles
  • Duration: 8 hours
  • Meals: Breakfast, lunch, snacks, tea time, dinner
  • Accommodation: Camping, massage, and drinks available
  • Difficulty: Moderate to difficult

Day 3: Llulluchapampa – Runkurakay – Phuyupatamarca

We start with a challenging climb to Warmiwañuska (Dead Woman’s Pass), the highest point of the Inca Trail at 4,215 m / 13,829 ft, an ideal spot for panoramic photos. A two-hour descent brings us to Pacaymayo Alto for lunch. In the afternoon, we ascend to the second pass at Runkuraqay (4,000 m / 13,123 ft) and continue about three more hours to our campsite at Phuyupatamarca (3,680 m / 12,073 ft). Along the way, we explore Runkuraqay, Sayacmarca, and Conchamarca, with far-reaching views toward the Salkantay and Vilcabamba ranges.

  • Campsite altitude: 3680 m / 12073 ft
  • Highest altitude: 4215 m / 13829 ft
  • Distance: 12 km / 7.4 miles
  • Duration: 10 hours
  • Meals: Breakfast, lunch, snacks, tea time, dinner
  • Accommodation: Camping, massage, and drinks available
  • Difficulty: Moderate

Day 4: Phuyupatamarca – Wiñaywayna – Machu Picchu Pueblo

With the hard part well and truly over, you can relax and enjoy the easiest and arguably most exciting day of the trek. Today’s route is extremely varied, and it is only a 5-hour walk to Machu Picchu. Along the way, you will pass through several different ecosystems. We will visit two Inca sites, Phuyupatamarca (City in the Clouds), with spectacular views of the Urubamba River and the Machu Picchu mountain and Intipata (Terraces of the Sun). At Intipata, there will be time to rest and take in your magical surroundings.

We will reach Wiñaywayna at approximately 11:00 am to have lunch. You can then enjoy some free time relaxing and unwinding at this important Inca site while your guide explains the history of this fantastic location. After lunch, we will walk for an hour to the Sungate, taking in the stunning views along the way. On a clear day, you can watch the spectacular sunset over Machu Picchu from the Sungate, which is truly an unforgettable sight. We will then start our one-hour descent towards Machu Picchu. We will arrive late and take photos of the sacred Inca city while it is almost empty. Later, take the bus down to Aguas Calientes, have dinner in a local restaurant, and spend the night in a hotel.

  • Campsite altitude: 2000 m / 6562 ft.
  • Highest altitude: 3600m / 11811ft
  • Distance: 10km / 6 miles
  • Duration: 6 hours
  • Meals: Breakfast, lunch, snacks and dinner
  • Accommodation: 4-star hotel (Tierra Viva or similar)
  • Difficulty: Moderate

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

On our final day, we’ll rise early to prepare for the most anticipated moment of the journey: Machu Picchu, the Lost City of the Incas. We will head out early to take the bus up to Machu Picchu. Arriving as the sky brightens, you can watch the spectacular sunrise over Machu Picchu on a clear day. Your guide will take you on a 2 to 2.5 hour comprehensive tour of the city before leaving you in Machu Picchu to explore on your own or climb either Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain (must be booked as far in advance as possible). After finishing the tour, you will have a buffet lunch at Tinkuy restaurant in the Sanctuary Lodge Hotel to take the exclusive panoramic train back to Cusco, where the deluxe Inca Trail ends.

  • Duration: 2 – 3 hours
  • Meals: Breakfast (hotel), Lunch ( Machu Picchu)
  • Difficulty: Easy

Price of 5-Day Luxury Inca Trail to Machu Picchu

Price per person:

Number of Travelers

Price per Person

1

US$ 4,500

2

US$ 3,200

3

US$ 2,950

4

US$ 2,800

5

US$ 2,600

6

US$ 2,400

7

US$ 2,250

8

US$ 2,100

9 or more

Contact us for a personalized quote!

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The final price is based on your group size; we only organize Inca Trail private tour.


Booking and payment

  • Deposit: US$400 per person (to reserve your spot). The remaining balance can be seamlessly paid online or in person at our Cusco office.

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.

Before you book:

  • This experience is offered exclusively as an Inca Trail private tour.
  • Accommodation includes a 4-star hotel, based on double occupancy in a twin room.
  • Vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and lactose-free meals are available upon request.

How to book:

To book this tour:

  1. Click on the BOOK NOW button, choose your travel date, and select how many people will be joining.
  2. Fill in all the requested details with your passport data.
  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.

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Luxury Inca Trail Trek 5 Days packing list

From arrival to departure, your Peru journey is designed to feel effortless. Keep one or two spacious bags for your souvenirs, but for the 5-day Inca Trail to Machu Picchu. 

Bring only the essentials: up to 5 kg (11 lb) in your daypack and 10 kg (22.05 lb) in your duffel bag. The rest of your belongings, you can leave in your hotel in Cusco or in the TreXperience storerooms.

TreXperience include:

  • 1 duffel bag weighing 7 kg (15 lb) for storing your personal belongings. TreXperience porters will carry it from camp to camp, but you will not have access during the day, so everything you’ll need while hiking should go in your daypack.

For trail essentials, carry up to 5 kg (11 lb) in your daypack. You’ll keep this pack with you at all times, so load it with the day’s basics: water, snacks, a light layer, sunscreen, etc.

Essentials:

  • Original passport (no copies): Valid for at least 6 months to enter and exit Peru, with two blank pages for stamps.
  • Student ID: This is required only if you have booked the Inca Trail as a student. Original, university-issued, valid up to age 25. Must show the university name, your personal information, photo, and a validity date no later than December 31 of your travel year.
  • Hiking boots: Lightweight, comfortable, and broken in, not too tight or loose. They should provide enough room for your toes to wiggle without being too spacious.
  • Daypack: Comfortable, light, small and compact. It is essential for carrying all your supplies.
  • Camel bag or water bottle: Reusable bottles with a 2L capacity, that can be easily refilled throughout the day.
  • Trekking poles: Highly recommended for the Inca Trail, rentals are available.
  • Sleeping bag: Buy a sleeping bag that fits your height and weight, and remember to pack it in a waterproof bag to stay dry on the trail. For the Inca Trail hike, we recommend sleeping bags rated at -10°C. You can also rent sleeping bags from us.
  • Headlamp: Essential for the trek, you can also bring a flashlight.

What to put in the Daypack?

  • Hats & sunglasses: The sun is strong on the Inca Trail, bring a sun hat (ideally with an adjustable neck flap) and UV-protection sunglasses.
  • Buff or bandana: A versatile neck gaiter that’s handy for sun, dust, and warmth.
  • Beanie or chullo: For cold passes, camp nights, and early mornings.
  • Hiking gloves: Lightweight, breathable, and water-resistant; warm enough for cool weather and suitable for trekking the inca trail.
  • Rain jacket: Pack a rain jacket year-round; we’ll provide a poncho. Materials such as Gore-Tex or eVent work well.
  • Rain pants: Rarely used on this trail, bring them only if you already have them.
  • Gaiters (optional): Seldom needed; bring yours if you have them, we don't recommend buying a new one.
  • Warm layers: A base layer + mid layer (fleece or down) + waterproof shell layer.
  • Sunscreen: High SPF.
  • Lip balm: With SPF protection.
  • Bug spray: With DEET or picaridin.
  • Hand sanitizer: Small bottle for daytime use.
  • Toilet paper: Carry some in a plastic/zip bag, facilities are available along the trail.
  • Personal first-aid kit: Headache, stomach, and cold meds, plus band-aids and moleskin.
  • Camera & extra power: Cold and altitude reduce battery life, pack spare batteries or a power bank.
  • Snacks: Energy-dense granola bars or trail mix.
  • Extra cash: For souvenirs, drinks, and tips (small change helps for village restrooms on Day 1).

What to put in the Duffel Bag?

  • Camp shoes: Lightweight footwear to change into after hiking in boots.
  • Warm jacket: Temperatures can drop sharply at night, so wear warm layers. Don’t forget to pack a hat and gloves!
  • T-shirts (moisture-wicking): Synthetic fabrics are good options, polyester or nylon wick moisture and dry quickly. Avoid cotton shirts, as they hold onto moisture. Pack about 5 T-shirts.
  • Hiking pants/trousers (2–3): Cargo pants have large pockets on the sides of the legs, which are great for carrying extra gear. Convertible pants have zip-off legs at the knee for variable temperatures.
  • Leggings: A great option for women on the trail.
  • Undergarments (4 sets): Sports bras and compression shorts help prevent chafing.
  • Hiking socks (4 pairs): Breathable wool or synthetic blends.
  • Fleece (1): Jacket or pullover for layering.
  • Insulated jacket (1): Down or synthetic for the coldest nights.
  • Quick-dry towel: This is a must-have for anyone planning to hike the Inca Trail.
  • Biodegradable soap: Gentle on the environment.
  • Wet wipes: Pack plenty to stay fresh on dusty sections.
  • Toothbrush & toothpaste: Travel-size.
  • Face moisturizer: High altitude and strong sun can dry your skin.
  • Power bank: Keep your phone on airplane mode; a 20,000 mAh unit is recommended.
  • Plastic bags: Separate wet or muddy clothes.

See a complete guide on our blog: Packing List for the Inca Trail.


Note: It's important to pack light and bring only the essentials, as the trek has weight restrictions (a maximum of 10 kg). Additionally, the luxury campsite provide bedding, so you do not need to bring a sleeping bag or mattress.

Useful Information Luxury Inca Trail Trek 5 Days

The Inca Trail to Machu Picchu is one of the world's standout treks. Laid out by the Incas in the 15th century, it’s part of the Qhapaq Ñan, the extensive Andean road system that linked their empire across present-day Colombia, Ecuador, Perú, Bolivia, Chile, and Argentina.
Cusco was the capital, the political and ceremonial center of the Inca Empire. From there, the Qhapaq Ñan extended to the provinces, spanning over 40,000 km across South America. The Inca Trail to Machu Picchu is a 42 km (26 mi) segment of this network.

Inca Trail elevation gain

The Inca Trail elevation gain is around 3,000 feet (914 meters) from start to finish. The highest point on the trail is 13,828 feet (4,215 meters) at Dead Woman's Pass. Most of the elevation gain is in the first few days, with around 1,000 feet (305 meters) of ascent on Day 1 and 800 feet (244 meters) on Day 2. After that, the trail levels out somewhat, although there are still some ups and downs.

Highest point on the trail

Dead Woman’s Pass is a high mountain pass on the Machu Picchu hiking trail. It is located at 4,215 meters (13,829 feet) above sea level and is the highest point on the Inca Trail. The pass gets its name from its resemblance to a woman lying on her back. The pass is a challenging section of the Inca Trail, with steep ascents and descents.

Location

Globally renowned for its breathtaking scenery and historical significance, the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu starts at Kilometer 82 near Piscacucho Village, nestled in the Ollantaytambo district of Urubamba Province, within Sacred Valley in Cusco, Peru.

History

The Classic Inca Trail to Machu Picchu dates to the 15th century. It was likely built by the same Inca builders who constructed Machu Picchu and served as a trade route linking Cusco with communities near the Amazon. 

After the Spanish conquest, both the Machu Picchu hiking trail and Machu Picchu citadel faded from view until 1911, when American explorer Hiram Bingham III documented the site while searching for the Lost City of the Incas. Today, the Inca Trail and Machu Picchu are among Peru’s most visited destinations.

Weather

Weather on the Inca Trail is unpredictable and variable. There are two seasons, but you should pack for all conditions when trekking the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu.

  • Wet season: November–March
  • Dry season: April–October

Temperatures vary by altitude and time of year. Daytime can reach around 80°F (27°C), while nights can fall below freezing. Therefore, hikers should be equipped to handle both warm and chilly weather conditions.

Difficulty

Trekking the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu can be challenging, its length and high elevation test your stamina, but it’s worth it. You’ll take in striking Andean scenery and finish with a strong sense of accomplishment.

5-Day Luxury Inca Trail to Machu Picchu frequently asked questions

Hiking the famous Inca Trail to Machu Picchu is a remarkable journey with mountain views, centuries-old sites, and meaningful cultural moments. Many hikers ask how to prepare, get permits, and what to expect on the route. Below are some frequently asked questions about the Inca Trail Luxury tour so you can plan a safe, enjoyable, and memorable trek to Machu Picchu.

What is the difference between the Luxury Inca Trail Trek and the regular Inca Trail?

The Luxury Inca Trail 5 days Private Luxury Inca Trail Tour offer a more comfortable and personalized experience than the regular Inca Trail. It provides luxury camping and 4-star hotel, gourmet meals, and personalized service. The regular Inca Trail offers more basic camping accommodations.

How do I book the Luxury Inca Trail 5 days?

You can book the 5 days Luxury Inca Trail Tour through a reputable tour operator that offers this experience. It is recommended to book in advance, as permits are limited, and the trek is popular and can sell out quickly.

Do I need a permit to trek the Luxury Inca Trail 5 days?

Yes, just like the classic route, the 5-day Luxury Inca Trail needs a government-issued permit with limited daily spaces. You won’t have to deal with any paperwork; we’ll secure your permit and take care of everything.

What is the best time of year to trek the Luxury Inca Trail 5 days?

The best time to trek the 5 days Luxury Inca Trail Tour is during the dry season, which runs from May to September. However, it is possible to trek during the rainy season, which runs from November to March, but it may be more challenging due to the weather.

What kind of physical fitness is required for the Luxury Inca Trail 5 days?

The 5 days Luxury Inca Trail Tour is a moderate to challenging trek requiring reasonable fitness and preparation. Engaging in regular exercise and practicing trekking with a backpack is recommended before embarking on the trek.

What does the buffet lunch at Tinkuy Restaurant in Sanctuary Lodge Hotel include?

The buffet lunch at Tinkuy Restaurant, part of the prestigious Belmond chain and located just steps from Machu Picchu’s entrance. Offers a buffet lunch with Peruvian favorites and international dishes in a lovely setting, with warm and attentive service.

Inquire about this Tour