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The 5-day Ultimate Inca Trail adventure offers a unique opportunity to explore lesser-known Inca sites along the trail, providing a peaceful and quiet experience. This tour is available daily for groups of at least two people, taking you through the stunning Andes and culminating at the remarkable Machu Picchu, one of the world's most preserved archaeological wonders.
The Ultimate Inca Trail 5-day tour offers an unforgettable hiking experience, showcasing the beauty of the Andes, Inca history, and breathtaking views. Led by expert guides, you'll trek through remote, lesser-visited areas, passing high mountain passes, lush valleys, cloud forests, and ancient ruins. Highlights include exploring unique Inca sites, visiting Machu Picchu twice (at sunset and sunrise), staying at exclusive campsites, and returning on the scenic Vistadome panoramic train. The grand finale is reaching Machu Picchu through the Intipunku (Sun Gate).
Day 1: Cusco – Ollantaytambo – KM 88 – Chamana
Start with an early morning pickup from Cusco or Sacred Valley. Visit Ollantaytambo for breakfast and a social project, then begin the trek at kilometer 82. Hike along the Urubamba River, passing Inca sites like Salapunku and Machu Q'ente. Reach KM 88 and cross the river via a hanging bridge. After lunch, visit the Inca site of Wayna Q'ente, then camp near the village of Chamana.
Hiking: 13 km (7 hrs) | Altitude: 2,200 m (7,217 ft).
Day 2: Chamana – Patallacta – Huayllabamba – Llulluchapampa
Visit the Inca site of Patallacta, then hike along the Cusichaca River to Wayllabamba Village. After lunch, continue hiking through various ecosystems to the Llulluchapampa campsite.
Hiking: 12 km (8 hrs) | Altitude: 3,800 m (12,467 ft).
Day 3: Llulluchapampa – Runkuraqay – Phuyupatamarca
Climb to the highest point of the trek, Warmiwañuska (4,215 m), then descend to Pacaymayo Alto for lunch. Continue to Runkuraqay Pass and explore Inca sites like Sayacmarca and Conchamarca. Camp at Phuyupatamarca.
Hiking: 12 km (10 hrs) | Altitude: 3,660 m (12,073 ft).
Day 4: Phuyupatamarca – Wiñaywayna – Sun Gate – Machu Picchu
Descend to explore Phuyupatamarca, Intipata, and Wiñaywayna. After lunch, hike to the Sun Gate for the first stunning view of Machu Picchu. Spend the night in Aguas Calientes.
Hiking: 11 km (7 hrs) | Altitude: 2,040 m (6,693 ft).
Day 5: Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu – Ollantaytambo – Cusco
Visit Machu Picchu early in the morning with a guided tour. Optional hikes to Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain are available. Afterward, take a train to Ollantaytambo and return to Cusco.
Hiking Duration: 2-3 hrs | Machu Picchu Altitude: 2,430 m (7,972 ft).
The trek combines breathtaking views, challenging hikes, ancient Inca sites, and a perfect finish at the iconic Machu Picchu.
Included:
- Safety briefing the day before the tour
- Pick-up and drop-off from your hotel
- All transportation during the Inca Trail tour
- Professional tour guide (2 guides for groups of 9 or more)
- Personal porter to carry up to 7kg (15lbs) of your gear
- All entry fees for the Inca Trail and Machu Picchu
- Chef to prepare your meals
- All meals are included except for the last day’s lunch
- 3 nights of camping with high-quality equipment
- 1 night in a hotel in Aguas Calientes
- 4-person tents shared by two trekkers
- Dining tent with tables and chairs
- Drinkable water after the first lunch
- Private portable toilets
- Panoramic Vistadome train for the return journey
Not Included:
- Sleeping bag, trekking poles, or air mattress
- Entry to Huayna Picchu Mountain
- Entry to Machu Picchu Mountain (Montaña Machu Picchu)
- Last day lunch in Aguas Calientes
- Travel insurance.
Essentials for Daypack:
- Original passport (check expiration)
- Plastic ponchos (provided by TreXperience)
- Sunscreen (including lip protectors)
- Toilet paper
- Insect repellent
- Rain jacket & warm jacket
- Snacks (energy bars, granola, etc.)
- Water container (2L capacity)
- Flashlight/headlamp
- Hat & sunglasses
- Extra money (600 soles)
- Personal medication (band-aids, Diamox, etc.)
- Devices (camera, phone, portable battery)
Essentials for Duffel Bag (max 7kg):
- Sleeping bag (suitable for -10°C)
- Hiking boots (waterproof & lightweight)
- Sandals (for campsite relaxation)
- 6 pairs of wool hiking socks
- 3 pairs of light socks (for evenings)
- 5+ pairs of underwear
- 2-3 hiking pants (breathable)
- 1 sweatpant (for evenings)
- 5 T-shirts (preferably long-sleeved)
- Trekking poles (recommended)
- Inflatable mattress (optional, for extra comfort)
Pack light and make sure to have everything ready for an unforgettable adventure!
Price for the Inca Trail Tour 5 Days to Machu Picchu
Price per person:
Group Service:
- Adults: From US$ 970
- Children and Students: From US$930
Private Service:
- 2 trekkers: $1740
- 3 trekkers: $1560
- 4 trekkers to 7 trekkers: $1300
- 8 or more trekkers: $970
Private tours are priced based on group size, ensuring a more personalized experience for each group.
- Booking: To reserve your spot, an initial payment of US$ 200 per person is required. The remaining balance can be paid online or at the office in Cusco.
Student Discount:
- US$ 30 off per person
- Travelers under 17 or students under 25 can qualify for the discount with a valid student ID. For the discount code, email Info@quinoaexpeditionsperu.com.
Valid Student ID Requirements:
- Must be 25 years or younger at the time of visiting Machu Picchu.
- ID must include the university name, student name, and a photo.
- The ID must have an expiration date.
Invalid Student IDs:
- IDs for travelers over 25 years old.
- Expired IDs.
- IDs without an expiration date.
- ISIC cards are not valid for the discount.
Ultimate Inca Trail 5-Day Tour - FAQs
1. Difference Between Classic and Ultimate Inca Trail:
The 5-day tour explores more unique locations and offers two visits to Machu Picchu: one at sunset on Day 4 and another at sunrise on Day 5.
2. Campsite Altitudes:
- Starting Point: KM 82 (2,600 m/8,530 ft)
- Highest Point: Dead Woman’s Pass (4,215 m/13,828 ft)
- Machu Picchu: (2,430 m/7,972 ft)
- Campsites range from 3,000 m to 3,680 m (9,843 ft to 12,073 ft)
3. Challenge Level:
The trek is moderate to difficult. Training and prior short hikes are recommended.
4. Route:
Starts at KM 82 (Piscacucho) and ends at Machu Picchu, passing through the Sun Gate.
5. Distance:
The trek covers 48 km (30 miles) over 5 days.
6. Best Time to Hike:
The dry season (April to October) is ideal. The trail is closed in February due to heavy rains and maintenance.
7. Arrival Time in Cusco:
Arrive at least two days before departure to acclimate to the altitude.
8. Permit Booking:
Inca Trail permits must be secured through authorized tour operators in Cusco, and you must travel with a registered guide, chef, and porters.
9. Booking the Trail:
Book through a tour operator like TreXperience, confirming your details and making the required payment.
10. Safety:
While the trek is not inherently dangerous, following your guide’s instructions is essential for safety. Independent hikes are not allowed.
This tour offers a more extended and scenic adventure compared to the Classic Inca Trail, allowing for a deeper exploration of the area.
Why Book with Quinoa Expeditions
Quinoa Expeditions is a locally owned company based in Cusco, Peru, committed to providing an exceptional Inca Trail experience. They offer high-quality food, premium camping gear, and door-to-door transportation, ensuring comfort throughout the journey. Quinoa Expeditions is the only company that includes Vistadome panoramic trains on the return from Machu Picchu, enhancing the scenic experience.
The trek goes beyond hiking—it's a cultural and spiritual immersion into Incan heritage, guided by native experts. Quinoa Expeditions practices sustainable tourism, supports porter welfare with fair pay and benefits, and prioritizes safety with trained staff and emergency equipment. With flexible booking policies, over 7,000 positive review, and a strong commitment to excellence, Quinoa Expeditions offers a trustworthy and unforgettable adventure.
