Overview
Premium Inca Trail – Overview
- First day: Cusco – Km82- Llactapata-Hatunchaca
- Second day: Llactapata- Hatunchaca- Llulluchapampa
- Day 3: Llulluchapampa- Phuyupatamarca
- Fourth: Phuyupatamarca- Wiñay Wayna – Machu Picchu
- Day 5: Machu Picchu-Aguas Calientes-Cusco
Useful Information
- Starting Altitude: 2,720 m / 8,920ft.
- Highest Altitude: 4,215 m /13,825 ft
- Walking Distance: 45 km / 26 miles
- Overall Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
Itinerary
Premium Inca Trail – Itinerary
Day 1: Cusco – Km. 82 – Llactapata – Hatunchaca
Today we begin early in the morning and we will pick you up at your hotel in Cusco. Then we wind down the beautiful mountains in the the Sacred Valley of of the Incas to Km. 82 right at the banks of the Willkamayu (Urubamba) river. We begin our first steps of the adventure surrounded by views of snow-capped mountains and the gorgeous site of Mount Veronica.
Our first tour is of the small Inca ruin site Willca Raccay that is off a side spur of the main Inca Trail. We stop here first before making our way to our main destination Llactapata – Hatunchaca.
Llactapata (2,650 m / 8,692 ft) is passed by most of those who are hiking the Inca Trail, however because we have more time we can explore more and go further along the trail. Llactapata, meaning High City in Quechua is a vast stretch of incredibly constructed terraces that span along the mountainside. There many different historical significances from agriculture to religious and we will learn of these as we tour through this expansive site.
Overall, today is a light trekking day, allowing you to get acclimated and enjoy the beauty Llactapata has to hold. We will be camping just a little further up from the ruins and once we are settled in we can enjoy a lovely dinner and relax for the next day of trekking to come!
- Meals: Lunch/Afternoon Snacks/Dinner
- Accomodations: Camping
- Maximum Altitude: 2,950 m / 9,676 ft
- Minimum Altitude: 2,600 m / 8,525 ft
- Walking Distance: 10 km/ 6 miles
- Approximate Walking Time: 5 -6 hours
Day 2: Llactapata – Hatunchaca – Llulluchapampa
Today we wake up with a hot cup of tea and breakfast and prepare to set off! Today is another relatively easier day. Most of groups would be powering ahead along the Inca Trail today and would be heading over Dead Woman’s Pass, the highest point on the trek and one of the hardest and longest climbs on the Inca Trail. However, we’re going to take things at a more leisurely pace and our goal for today is to get to campsite just before the pass, Llulluchapampa. This breaks the hardest stretch over two days making the climb significantly easier.
Today we have the opportunity to visit Tarawasi on our way to Llulluchapampa. This is another site off the beaten path and we get the opportunity to explore with few tourists. Paucarancha is a beautifully preserved ruin site that has deep history. As we explore we will pass through various biozones including the low sierra, cloud forest, and the high puna. Throughout, there is gorgeously lush plant life and various native birds. Also, if we are fortunate we may spot a White Tailed Deer.
We trek for not too long after to Llulluchapampa (3,800m / 12,460 ft) our campsite for the night. Again, a tranquil and quiet spot to lay our heads for the night as we are just below most of the Inca Trail trekkers.
- Meals: Breakfast/Lunch/Afternoon Snacks/Dinner
- Accommmodations: Camping
- Maximum Altitude: 3,800 m/ 12,460 ft
- Minimum Altitude: 2,950 m / 9,676 ft
- Walking Distance: 9 km / 5 ½ miles
- Approximate Walking Time: 5 hours
Day 3: Llulluchapampa – Phuyupatamarca
We rise and shine with a nourishing breakfast to prepare us for the longest day of our trek as we cross through two high passes. Luckily, we are the first at the pass allowing for us to have the time and space that we need to take in the beautiful sites and power up the hill!
Today we will see the best views and scenery of the entire Inca Trail. We also visit two incredible ruin sites as well, Runcuraccay and Sayacmarca. With fantastic 360 degree views of high snow capped peaks and cloud forest all around we have many incredible photo opportunities.
After a day of incredible views and visiting two beautiful ancient ruin sites we get to our campsite at Phuyupatamarca (3,680 m / 12,073 ft). Here we get our first breathtaking views of Machu Picchu mountain and we will make it in time just for the sunset. Again, picturesque views without the large amount of trekkers. We have a delicious dinner, take photos, and rest from a long day’s trek!
- Meals: Breakfast/Lunch/Afternoon Snacks/Dinner
- Accommodations: Camping
- Maximum Altitude: 4,215 m/ 13,825 ft
- Minimum Altitude: 3,680 m/ 12,073 ft
- Walking Distance: 15 km/ 9 ½ miles
- Approximate Walking Time: 8 hours
Day 4: Phuyupatamarca – Wiñay Wayna – Machu Picchu – Aguas Calientes
Today is dedicated to the history of the Incas, as we will be visiting 3 major ruin sites: Phuyupatamarca, Intipata and Wiñay Wayna. Then we finally arrive to Machu Picchu itself late in the late day.
We only have a short distance of hiking left, giving us the opportunity to tour these 3 sites with the time they well deserve. Throughout touring these expansive sites we will learn of Inca history and culture also preparing us for a deeper understanding of the citadel Machu Picchu the following day. Along the entire trek we are surrounded by rich wildlife and very few people. With few trekkers and timing it to the perfect time day we have the opportunity to hopefully spot some of the elusive native species of the area.
After our tour, we will have our last lunch with our porters and say our goodbyes. It is a tradition on the Inca Trail to have a thanking ceremony for all the hard work the porters and cooks have done. After we say our goodbyes and thanks to our team we will carry on to the Sun Gate (Intipunku) from where we´ll get our first views of Machu Picchu city. It will take about an hour, hiking along a trail of flat stones along the edges of cliffs through the highland jungle to reach the Sun Gate, it’s spectacular. Then we have another hour decline to the site itself.
On arrival, we will have the opportunity to enjoy the sunset and to see Machu Picchu without any crowd before taking the bus to your hotel in Aguas Calientes. Here we will check you into your comfortable hotel and you will be able to enjoy a hot shower! After we will share dinner together at a lovely restaurant in town.
- Meals: Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner
- Accommodations: Hotel
- Maximum Altitude: 3,680 m / 12,073 ft
- Minimum Altitude: 2,040 m / 6,691 ft
- Walking Distance: 11 km / 7 miles
- Approximate Walking Time: 5-6 hours
Day 5: Machu Picchu – Cusco!
We wake up early for the big day of exploring Machu Picchu. We begin by winding up the mountain in the beautiful cloud forest reaching the sacred citadel just in time for the sunrise. Once here we will enjoy a 2 hour guided tour learning all about the Incas and the significance this mystical and breathtaking historical site holds.
We will visit a number of different sites from fountains to temples and learn about the impressive ingenuity of the Incas. After, you will have time to explore and revisit any sites. Also, if you elect, you have the opportunity to climb Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu mountain. Huayna Picchu provides the perfect photo opportunity as it towers over the beautiful Machu Picchu city.
In the afternoon, you will take the scenic train back going through high jungles and the endless mountains to Ollantaytambo. From here a representative will be waiting for you to take you back by private transport from the Sacred Valley of the Incas to your hotel in Cusco.
- Meals: Breakfast
- Maximum altitude: 2,040 m / 6,691 ft
- Minimum altitude: 2,440 m / 8,052 ft
Inclusions
Includes in the premium Inca Trail:
- Transfer upon arrival from airport or bus station in Cusco to your hotel
- Professional English Speaking Tour Guide
- Assistant Tour Guide for groups of 9+
- Pre trek briefing with your guide 1 or 2 days before your Inca Trail
- Chef
- Porters to carry cooking and camping equipment
- Pick-up from your Hotel.
- Transportation by bus to Km. 82
- Return transportation by train and bus to Cusco
- Water (excluding the first 4 hours of the Premium Inca Trail, you will need to bring your own)
- 4 Breakfasts, 4 Lunches, 3 Afternoon Snacks and 4 Dinners. If you have a dietary such as vegetarian food please let us know,and request with no cost at all.
- Dining tent with tables and chairs
- a 4-men tent for every 2 trekkers
- Sleeping mattress.
- Hotel on Day 4(In Aguas Calientes)
- Oxygen bottle
- First aid kit
- Entrance to the premium Inca Trail and Machu Picchu
- Bus from Machu Picchu to Aguas Calientes – round trip
Does Not Include in the premium Inca Trail Trek
- Sleeping Bag (Can be hired from us)
- Lunch and dinner on Day 5
- Entrance to Huayna Picchu Mountain-US$70
- Tips for your porters & guide
- Travel Insurance – you are strongly recommended to take out travel insurance for the duration of your trip.
What you need to take for the premium Inca Trail
- Original Passport
- Valid STUDENT CARD (if you are a student and want to qualify for the discount)
- Walking boots
- Waterproof jacket / rain poncho
- Warm jacket
- Hat and gloves
- T-shirts
- Comfortable Trousers
- Sun hat
- Sun cream
- Insect repellant
- Toiletries and hand sanitiser
- Personal medication
- Camera and film
- Torch
- Spare batteries
Price
Prices:
- 2 people US$950 per person
- 3 people US$920 per person
- 4 people US$890 per person
- 5+people US$860 per person
Discounts:
- Student Discount: US$20 (Requires Valid STUDENT CARD to qualify)
- Under 15 years Discount: US$30 Please send us a copy of your passport at the time of booking.
Optional Extras:
- Hiking Poles US$15
- Sleeping Bag US$25
- Single Tent Supplement US$25
- Additional Night in Aguas Calientes US$90
- Vistadome Train Upgrade US$57
- Huayna Picchu Mountain US$70
- Machu Picchu Mountain US$ 70
FAQs
What is the history of the Inca Trail Hike?
The story of the Inca Trail begins more than 500 years ago, during the height of the Incan Empire. During that time, the Incas built an enormous network of trails that connected their entire empire, from Ecuador and Colombia through Peru and down into Chile, even crossing parts of Argentina, Bolivia and Brazil. We’re talking an incredible feat of engineering: the roads covered an estimated distance of between 23,000 km and 45,000 km! The entire Qhapaq Ñan is referred to Royal Road – and that includes the famous 43km referred to today as “The Inca Trail.
Do I need a guide for the Premium Inca Trail?
Yes. Peru’s Ministry of Tourism has made it mandatory to be accompanied by a registered tour guide to hike the 4, 5-day and 2-day Inca Trail.
What is the food like on the Inca Trail Trek?
On the 5-day Comfort Inca Trail the food is hearty, plentiful, and filling to keep you energized for the journey. Please notify us if you have any special requirements or diet restrictions, such as requiring vegetarian,vegan,gluten free meals. You will enjoy breakfast, as well as a hot lunch and dinner every day.
Should I use walking sticks on the Premium Inca Trail?
Walking sticks are always helpful to trekkers, but particularly on this trek. The Inca Trail footpath is filled with many stone stairs that you will walk up and down. They were all hand carved and laid by the Incas, 400 years ago. They vary in height and are not all straight. Using walking sticks can help take the pressure off your knees while doing this portion of the trail. Plus, they will help you get up the mountain as well.
Metal tips on your hiking poles are not allowed on the Inca Trail. For those who are bringing their own walking poles, make sure you have rubber tips, or the rangers will not allow you to use them. Rubber tips can be purchased in Cusco if you forget to change out your metal tips, before you arrive in Cusco.
Walking poles are available for rent from us, so you don’t actually have to hassle with bringing them on flights if you do not want to
What is the difference between a private and group tour?
The tours are exactly the same, but the private tour will only be your family and friends.
Group tours nclude people from everywhere and all varieties of hiking abilities
Does the Premium inca trail 5d/4n go to Machu Picchu?
Yes, it is the ancient footpath of the Incas that goes from the Cusco directly to Machu Picchu. It was created specifically for the Inca people to travel to Machupicchu
How far in advance should I plan my Inca Trail hike?
We recommend that you make a reservation for the Inca Trail as far in advance as possible.
For trips from November to March, we suggest booking 3 months in advance.
In the high season from April to October tickets should be bought 6 months in advance.
Inca Trail regulations are designed to protect the route, limit the number of trekkers to 500 per day, including guides, porters, and cooks. As such, the trail usually gets fully booked far in advance.
Do I need to tip the porters, chefs, and guides?
Generally speaking, if the group has been pleased with the service then it is customary to tip your team. If you aren’t sure about how much to tip the porters and chef, ask your guide and he will answer honestly. And, if you have any equipment that you brought for the trek that you think you will never use again, you can gift it to our porters.
Is the Premium Inca Trail 5d/4n the same path as the 4 day Inca trail?
Yes,it is the same route as the shorter hike just at a slower peace, spending more time at the ruins each day. While you still get to Machu Picchu on Day 4, you will be there for sunset (hopefully good weather will let you witness this) instead of sunrise, and then you head down to Aguas Calientes for some well-needed rest and a hot shower. The next day you will be at Machu Picchu for the sunrise (again weather dependent). The best route to do with families with younger children.
Can I hike the Premium Inca Trail in a private tour?
A private Inca Trail tour is best for those concerned about their experience level affecting the rest of the group or for those simply wanting to do the trail with fewer people.
How many people are in a group?
Usually there are 2 – 5 people
When is the best time of year to hike the 5d/4n Inca Trail?
The best time to hike the Inca Trail is during the dry season from May to October. Nights will be chillier, but you are unlikely to have rain during your trek.
The rainy season from December to January isn’t recommended unless you really prefer few people and do not mind the rain. Note that the Inca Trail is closed during the entire month of February for maintenance and safety reasons.
What will the weather be like on the Inca trail?
The weather on the Inca Trail depends on the season. April through September is the dry season, November through February is the rainy season, and March and October are bridge months – a mixture of both. Peru is in the southern hemisphere, so when its summer in North America, it is winter in Peru. The months of June – August are peak winter in Peru, and November – February are considered summer, or because of Peru’s climate in the Machu Picchu region, it is also called the rainy season. However, weather has become more variable in the last few years. It is best to prepare for sun and rain no matter when you come.
What do I need to carry in my daypack on the Premium Inca trail?
Porters will be responsible for carrying all your overnight supplies in your duffel to each campsite, but everyone must have a day pack that should include everything you need/want for hiking during the day, since your duffel will only be available in the morning and evening.
Here are the items you will want to carry in your daypack: raincoat, sweater and/or jacket, water bottle, flashlight, insect repellent, sunblock, antiseptic hand gel, water bottle or hydration pack, any needed toiletries or meds, and a backup stash of toilet paper and your Camera. You might also want to carry snacks, biscuits,chocolate, dried fruit and so on.
Is there any location where we can plug and charge our electronic devices on the Inca trail?
There is an electricity facility at the last campsite on the Inca Trail. But, there could be a very packed line to use it as there is only one plugin source, so we recommend taking extra battery packs or power bans with you.
Can I charge my devices during the hike to Machupicchu?
There is an electricity facility at the last campsite on the Inca Trail. But, there could be a very packed line to use it as there is only one plugin source, so we recommend taking extra battery packs or power bans with you.
What Do I need to bring/pack for the premium Inca Trail?
- Sport, moisture-wicking underwear
- Base layers
- Trekking T-Shirts (LS and SS)
- Trekking shorts or pants
- Fleece jacket and windbreaker
- Warm jacket (for nights)
- Rain gear or poncho
- Hat
- Sunglasses
- Headlamp
- Gloves
- Walking sticks (available for rent)
- Boots or hiking sandals
- Trekking socks
- Gaiters (optional)
- Day pack
- Water bottle
- Hydration pack
- Sleeping bag (available for rent)
- Sleeping bag liner (available for rent)
- Air mattress (available for rent)
- Inflatable pillow (optional)
- Ear plugs (optional)
- Passport
- Insurance
- Trekking Towel (optional)
- Swimsuit (optional – for hot springs)
- Water-proof sunscreen
- Bug spray
- Baby wipes
- Plastic bags
- Blister care
- General meds
- Snacks
- Toiletries
- Cash
- Camera
- Power bank/battery charger for any electronics like smart phones/cameras.
Additional
ADDED VALUES FOR FREE
- Inflatable Mattress (Included)
- Pillow (Included)
- Blanket (Included)
- Extra 7 kg of personal ítems (Included). All of our treks include porters, who are responsible for carrying and setting up all equipment. They will also carry your personal duffel, which you will receive at your briefing the night before your premium Inca Trail. This duffel can not exceed 7 kg/15.43 pounds, and must include your sleeping bag and an air mattress.
