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The 5-Day Inca Trail to Machu Picchu is an unforgettable trekking adventure through ancient Inca trails, breathtaking Andean landscapes, cloud forests, and fascinating archaeological sites.
This slower-paced trek gives you more time to enjoy the scenery, explore Inca ruins, and acclimatize to the altitude. The journey culminates with an incredible arrival at Machu Picchu through the Sun Gate (Inti Punku).
Experience the perfect combination of adventure, history, nature, and Andean culture on one of the world’s most iconic trekking routes.
Moderate
Hike, Camping, Culture Adventure
4,215 meters (13,828 feet)
02ppl Min Average 06ppl - 08ppl Max
The Inca Trail 5 days is a 43-kilometer trek that offers a unique experience by combining visits to mysterious and sacred Inca cities, breathtaking mountain landscapes, and lush cloud forests filled with the diverse flora and fauna of the Andes.
This tour not only provides close contact with nature but also offers the opportunity to immerse oneself in the rich history and culture of the Inca civilization through the numerous archaeological sites scattered along the way.
Unlike the 4-day route, this itinerary allows hikers to enjoy a more peaceful and relaxed experience, avoiding the crowds typically found on the shorter version of the trek. Additionally, the campsites chosen on this route are located in more remote and scenic spots, allowing for quieter nights surrounded by the majestic Andes.
This trek is especially recommended for families with children and older adults, as the longer itinerary of the 5-Day Inca Trail allows for a more comfortable pace, suited to the needs of all members of the group.
Throughout the journey, hikers will have the opportunity to admire the impressive biodiversity of the cloud forests, with a wide variety of plants, birds, and other typical animals of the region.
The highlight of the trek is the arrival at the Sacred City of Machu Picchu, one of the wonders of the world and a dream destination for many travelers.
On the final day of the route, a complete guided tour of this iconic archaeological site is provided, allowing hikers to learn in-depth about its history, architecture, and spiritual significance within the Inca Empire.
With its majestic landscapes and profound cultural connection, the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu 5 Days is the perfect option for those seeking a more enriching and less crowded experience, without missing out on the magic of one of the world’s most iconic destinations.
This 5-day Slow Inca Trail itinerary is designed for travelers who prefer a more relaxed pace, allowing extra time to enjoy the breathtaking scenery, explore fascinating Inca archaeological sites, and fully appreciate the natural beauty along the trail. By spreading the journey over five days, hikers can experience the route with less physical pressure while still completing the full Classic Inca Trail to Machu Picchu.
Please note: Inca Trail campsites are strictly regulated by the Peruvian government and assigned according to availability, so specific campsite locations cannot be guaranteed in advance. We strongly recommend booking early to increase the chances of securing the Wiñayhuayna campsite, located approximately 2 hours from Machu Picchu. Last-minute reservations may instead be assigned to Phuyupatamarca, which is about 5 hours from Machu Picchu.
Additionally, hiking times and campsite assignments may vary slightly depending on permits, group pace, and operational logistics, but every effort is made to provide the best possible experience along this iconic trail.
At 6:00 am, we will pick you up from your hotel and drive to Ollantaytambo, passing through the picturesque villages of Chinchero and Urubamba. We continue to Km 82, where we start a 3-hour walk to Patallacta (2,650m/8,747ft). Here, we’ll have lunch and set up our first camp. In the afternoon, we explore the Patallacta archaeological site, enjoying the ancient buildings and surrounding snow-capped mountains.
Your guide will wake you up at 6:30 am with a hot tea or coffee to enjoy in your sleeping bag before breakfast. After a hearty breakfast, we trek through the Kusichaca Valley, arriving at Wayllabamba for lunch. We then hike up a moderate hill for 4 hours through the Llullucha Valley to our second camp at Llulluchapampa (3,800m/12,537ft). Hot drinks and appetizers will be ready upon arrival, with tents set up for your comfort before dinner.
• Meals Included: Breakfast, lunch, afternoon tea, dinner
• Accommodation: Camping facilities with comfortable tents
• Distance: 11 km / 6.8 miles
• Difficulty: Moderate
Today is the most beautiful and longest day of the trek. After breakfast, we hike uphill for two hours to reach the highest point: the Warmiwañusca Pass or Dead Woman Pass (4,215m/13,907ft). Enjoy spectacular views of various microclimates, mountains, green valleys, and diverse flora and fauna. After a two-hour trek to Pacaymayu for lunch, we ascend towards the archaeological site of Runkurakay (3,800m/12,540ft) for exploration.
We then continue to the second Runkurakay pass (3,977m/13,127ft) and descend to Sayacmarca (3,600m/11,877ft) before walking to our third campsite at Phuyupatamarca (3,650m/12,047ft). Enjoy views of Machu Picchu Mountain, the Inca Citadel, the Urubamba Canyon, and surrounding snow-capped mountains.
• Meals Included: Breakfast, lunch, afternoon tea, dinner
• Accommodation: Camping facilities with comfortable tents
• Distance: 15 km / 9.3 miles
• Difficulty: Moderate/Challenge
Today showcases the best of the Inca Trail! After breakfast, we walk down to the archaeological site of Intipata, then continue to Wiñay Wayna (2,650m/8,747ft) for lunch. Later, we visit the stunning Inca site of Wiñay Wayna before walking to the SUN GATE (2,720m/8,977ft) for our first view of Machu Picchu below. Trek down to the Guard House for famous postcard photos of Machu Picchu. We then take a bus to Aguas Calientes and spend the night in a hotel.
• Meals Included: Breakfast, lunch, afternoon tea, dinner
• Accommodation: 3-Star Hotel Ferre´ Machu Picchu
• Distance: 10 km / 6.2 miles
• Difficulty: Moderate
The day you’ve been waiting for! After an early breakfast, take one of the first buses up to Machu Picchu to witness the sunrise. Your guide will provide a two-hour tour of Machu Picchu, showcasing the most important parts of the Citadel. After exploring, return to Aguas Calientes for lunch (not included).
Depending on train departure time, you may have time for shopping, sightseeing, or visiting the museum or hot springs. The Expedition Train will take you back to Ollantaytambo at 2:55 pm or 3:30 pm, following the scenic Urubamba River. You’ll then be driven back to your Cusco hotel, arriving by 7:00 pm.
• Meals Included: Breakfast at your hotel
• Difficulty: Enjoyable
IMPORTANT:
Tips for the crew, guide, cook, and porters: Our staff receives a fair wage, but tips are optional and greatly appreciated.
EXTRAS
Huayna Picchu: This is an optional trek within Machu Picchu Citadel, usually done on your own after your Machu Picchu tour. If you want a guided hike, please request it in advance for an extra cost.
Group Service:
Private Service: Upon Request
DISCOUNTS
ADDED VALUE WITH INCAS EXPEDITIONS PERU
We show you what to bring on our Inca Trail 5 days. Comfortable trekking boots, warm layers for cold nights, a waterproof jacket, sunscreen, insect repellent and a good sleeping bag are essential. A small daypack with snacks, a reusable water bottle and trekking poles will make a big difference on the trail.
What to bring:
What to put in the duffel bag:
Toiletries:
What to put in the day backpack:
So, thinking about taking on the Inca Trail for 5 days? That’s awesome! The Inca Trail to Machu Picchu for 5 days is no joke, it’s a real adventure. Let’s break down what you gotta know to make the most of it.
First up, the weather. You’re gonna see a bit of everything. Sunny days, maybe some rain, and chilly mornings and evenings since you’re up in the mountains. Layering is key here. Bring a rain jacket, some breathable clothes for the day hikes, and something warm for the nights. A good pair of hiking boots is a must too.
Now, talking about the 5-day Classic Inca Trail, it’s the less rushed version, which is great ’cause you get more time to enjoy the views and ruins along the way. But it still means you’re hiking for several days, right? Make sure you’re in good shape. Start walking or hiking as much as you can before you go. Maybe hit some hills or stairs in your town.
There are a few restrictions to keep in mind. The trail limits the number of hikers each day, so you gotta book in advance. Like, really in advance. And stick to the path and guides; they know what’s up to keep you and the trail safe.
As for tips, here’s a big one: stay hydrated and take it slow to avoid altitude sickness. The altitude up there can be tough. Also, pack light but smart, think essentials like water, snacks, sunscreen, and a first aid kit.
The Inca Trail 5 Days gives you an extra day compared to the standard 4-day trek, which is sweet because it means less rush, more ruins, and maybe even a quieter trail. Use that extra day to really soak in the sights and sounds of this ancient path. And hey, once you reach Machu Picchu on that final day, trust me, it’ll all be worth it. The views are something else!
So, got everything? Good shoes, check. Weather-ready clothes, check. Physically prepped, check. Let’s hit that trail and have an amazing time!
Still have questions? Here are the most frequently asked questions about the Inca Trail 5 days. Everything you need to know before booking
The 5-day Inca Trail is a variation of the classic 4-day Inca Trail trek to Machu Picchu, designed to offer a less rushed experience. It covers approximately 26 miles through the Andes Mountains, combining breathtaking scenery, diverse ecosystems, and ancient archaeological sites. The additional day allows hikers more time to explore and appreciate the surroundings at a more relaxed pace, often including extra time at significant sites like Wiñay Wayna and Machu Picchu itself.
The 5-day Inca Trail is considered moderately challenging. It involves several days of hiking through rugged mountainous terrain, with significant elevation changes. The highest point of the trail reaches 4,200 meters (13,779 feet) at Dead Woman’s Pass. The difficulty is compounded by the high altitude, which can lead to altitude sickness. However, the 5-day trek allows a slower pace, helping trekkers acclimatize better and manage the physical exertion more comfortably than the traditional 4-day route.
The trek features numerous highlights, including archaeological sites like Llactapata, Runkurakay, and Phuyupatamarca. Hikers also pass through a range of environments from cloud forests to alpine tundra. The additional day usually provides more time at Machu Picchu, allowing for a deeper exploration of the site either late on the fourth day or early on the fifth, often avoiding the crowds brought by morning trains.
Packing for the 5-day Inca Trail should include layers for varying temperatures, rain gear, comfortable hiking boots, a sleeping bag suitable for cold temperatures, a headlamp, sun protection (hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen), insect repellent, personal medications, a camera, and a portable charger. Don’t forget essentials like water bottles, snacks, and your passport for trail checkpoints. It’s also advisable to pack light to make the hike easier.
The best time to hike the Inca Trail 5 Days is during the dry season, from May to September. During these months, the weather is generally clearer and dryer, providing safer hiking conditions and better views of the stunning landscapes. The trail is closed in February for maintenance, and the rainy season (October to April) can make the trek more challenging due to slippery paths and obscured views.
Yes, a guide is mandatory for hiking the Inca Trail. The Peruvian government requires all trekkers to be accompanied by a licensed guide. Guides are knowledgeable about the trail’s history, the flora and fauna, and responsible trekking practices. They also ensure the safety and well-being of all participants, making them invaluable for the successful completion of the trek.
Permits are strictly required for the Inca Trail and must be obtained well in advance of your trip, as they are limited to preserve the trail and its surroundings. The number of permits is capped daily, including trekkers, guides, and porters. It’s advisable to book several months in advance, especially during peak season, to secure your spot.
The 5-day trail typically takes a slower pace than the 4-day version, offering more time to enjoy and explore the various archaeological sites and natural landscapes. This may include extended stays at key locations and possibly less crowded visits to Machu Picchu. This option is especially appealing for those who want to immerse themselves more deeply in the experience or who may prefer a less strenuous schedule.
Accommodation on the Inca Trail is primarily camping, with trekkers sleeping in tents provided by the tour operators. These are usually set up by porters who travel ahead of the group. The campsites are designated by the Peruvian government and include basic facilities such as communal toilets. Some operators provide enhanced camping experiences with dining tents, chairs, and even a small portable toilet tent for added comfort.
Yes, most tour operators are able to accommodate various dietary restrictions with advance notice. This includes vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and allergy-specific meals. It’s important to communicate your dietary needs when booking the trek so that appropriate provisions can be planned and prepared for you throughout the journey.
Need help deciding on the right trip? Whether it s a quick question or full itinerary advice, we re here to help.
The 5 day Inca Trail to Machu Picchu takes you through 43 kilometers of iconic Andean scenery, from the first step on the trail to the Sun Gate, passing legendary sites like Wiñay Wayna and Runkurakay, and crossing mountain passes over 4,200 meters high.
