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Inca Trail with Huayna Picchu 5 days / 4 nights

Cusco, Wiñaywayna, Aguas Calientes, Machu Picchu, Huayna Picchu

  • Time 5 days / 4 nights
  • Tour Type Hike
  • Altitude 4200 m.a.s.l.
  • Place Cusco
  • Difficulty Moderate
+51 979 711 874

Trip Description

The best hike in South America is the Inca Trail, a 43-kilometer route along ancient Inca trails that leads to Machu Picchu. Along the hike, hikers can visit several archaeological centers that reflect the greatness of our ancestors. If you are interested in doing the Classic Inca Trail trek and climbing the sacred Huaynapicchu or Machupicchu mountains, then the 5-day, 4-night Inca Trail is for you. This trek is especially recommended during the rainy season if you want a second chance to see Machu Picchu in clear weather.

Short itinerary

Day 01: Cusco – Piskacucho km 82 – Llaqtapata – Wayllabamba – Llulluchapampa (campsite)

I will pick you up early from your accommodation in Cusco and take you to the starting point at km82, from where you will begin your hike to the first camp, Llulluchapampa.

Day 02: Llulluchapampa – Warmiwañusca – Runcuraccay Pass – Chaquicocha (campsite)

This day will be very demanding, since we will have to cross the Warmiwañusca pass, which has several uphill and downhill stretches. During the hike, we will visit archaeological sites such as Runcuraccay and Sayacmarca, until we reach the camp located in Chaquicocha.

Day 03: Chaquicocha – Wiñayhuayna (campsite)

For this day we will undertake an excursion through beautiful natural scenery and places of historical importance, such as Inti pata Phuyupatamarca, culminating at the campsite of Wiñayhuayna.

Day 04: Wiñaywayna – Machu Picchu – Aguas Calientes

The final day of our adventure includes an 8 km trek to Intipunku, where we will have our first view of Machu Picchu, followed by a guided tour. Afterwards, we will take a bus to rest in Aguas Calientes.

Day 05: 2nd entrance Machu Picchu – Huayna Picchu – Cusco

On this day we can take the opportunity to discover more of Machu Picchu and climb Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain. After our second visit to Machu Picchu, we take the train back to Cusco.

Places to visit and activities to do on the Inca Trail 5 days – 4 nights

Day 1Day 2Day 3Day 4Day 5
Starting pointKm. 82LlulluchapampaChaquicochaSun GateAguas Calientes
Arrival pointLlulluchapampaChaquiqochaWiñayhuaynaCusco
ActivitiesTransfer from Cuzco to the Inca Trail and hikeHikeHikeHike, visit Machu Picchu and return to Cusco.Visit Huayna Picchu and return to Cusco.
Distance / duration13 Km. / 5 h.11 Km. / 7 h.10 km. / 5 h.5 km. / 2 h.
Breakfast
Lunch
Snack
Dinner

Complete Itinerary

Day 01: Cusco – Piskacucho km 82 – Llaqtapata – Wayllabamba – Llulluchapampa (camping)

Cusco: The tour starts with the pick up service at the hotel between 6:00 a.m. and 6:30 a.m. to go to Piskacucho or Km 82 in Ollantaytambo, at an altitude of 2,871 masl. The trek takes about an hour and a half and you arrive at the starting point around 8:00 a.m. to begin the exciting adventure. The hike starts at the first checkpoint of the Inca Trail, so it is important to have the original passport with you to access it.

Llaqtapata (2,550 m.a.s.l.): During the first two hours of the hike, the route is simple and heads towards the first Inca point of interest, Llaqtapata, which served as an ancient checkpoint. After our visit to Llaqtapata, our guide will give us a detailed explanation about the place.

Wayllabamba (2,950 m.a.s.l.): After visiting Llaqtapata, we head towards our next stop, Wayllabamba, where we will have lunch and then walk for approximately 2.5 hours until we reach Llulluchapampa, our campsite at an altitude of 3300 meters. During this stretch, we will pass through two small communities where, if you wish, you can purchase energy drinks or snacks. It is also possible to buy any essential items you may have forgotten, such as batteries.

Llulluchapampa (3,840 m.a.s.l.): We will be arriving at our campsite at 5:00 pm, and once we have settled in, you will be able to relax and enjoy a hot drink and a snack together with our team of porters, cook and guide. Dinner will be ready at 7:30 pm, and then you can rest peacefully.

  • Distance: 8, miles / 13 km (5- 6 hours)
  • Altitude: Camping altitude 3850 masl.
  • Considered: Moderate day (getting used to the Inca Trail)
  • Weather: Warm and windy
  • Lunch: Wayllabamba
  • Camping: Llulluchapampa
  • Meals: Lunch and Dinner

Day 02: Llulluchapampa – Warmiwañusca – Runcuraccay Pass – Chaquicocha (camp)

Llulluchapampa (3,840 m.a.s.l.): At the beginning of the day, the Porters will provide you with a cup of hot coca tea to wake you up and help you get ready.

Warmiwañusca (4,200 m.a.s.l.): Today we have a long day ahead of us, so we will start early after enjoying a delicious breakfast. We will start with a hike of approximately 4 hours to reach the highest point of the route, the Dead Woman’s Pass, which rises to 4200 meters or 13829 feet. Once there, we will pause briefly to appreciate the breathtaking views before descending to our next destination, Pacaymayu. After walking for an hour and a half, we will arrive at the place where we will have lunch and rest briefly.

Runcuraccay Pass (3,850 m.a.s.l.): We continue our hike towards an Inca site called Runcuraccay, with the objective of observing two large waterfalls at the other end of the valley. Finally, we arrive at Sayacmarca, an Inca village that is normally difficult to access. We decided to stop there to rest a bit and quickly explore the site, before enjoying the beautiful sunset over the Vilca Bamba mountain range.

Chaquicocha (3,600 m.a.s.l.): In just 20 minutes, we will arrive at our second Chaquicocha rest camp, which is located at an impressive 3600 meters above sea level. After a delicious dinner, if you still have energy, you can enjoy a unique experience: observe the fascinating Inca constellations in the magnificent southern hemisphere sky, away from the light pollution of the city. Do not miss the opportunity to contemplate the beauty of the night sky at this incredible mountain altitude! The hike to the camp is exciting and challenging, with a distance of 9.94 miles / 16 km that we will cover in 7-8 hours.

  • Considered: Top day (you will have survived the two highest passes).
  • Area: The Andes and the Cloud Forest
  • Weather: Cold and rainy
  • Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  • Camp: Chaquicocha
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Day 03: Chaquicocha – Wiñayhuayna (campsite)

Chaquicocha (3,600 m.a.s.l.): We enter the third day, without a doubt we deserve recognition for our perseverance. We start early, getting up at 6:30 am, to enter what is considered the most beautiful day of the Inca Trail. During the first two hours we will walk along what is known as the “Inca plain”, a series of gradual ramps, and then we will enter the jungle, known as the Cloud Forest. Along the way, we will be able to appreciate the majesty of Salkantay, the second highest snow-capped mountain in the Sacred Valley, and enjoy a breathtaking panoramic view of the Vilca bamba mountain range. As we approach the end of the Inca area, we will begin to climb towards the last peak at Phuyupatamarca (3600 meters), from where we will be able to admire excellent views of the Urubamba River. From here, we will be able to appreciate the first views of Machu Picchu in the valley, although it will still not be visible in its entirety. To reach our last campsite, Wiñay Wayna, we will have to walk for approximately three hours up a series of stairs.

Wiñay Wayna (2,640 m.a.s.l.): The area near Wiñay Wayna, which means “Forever Young”, is the most impressive archaeological site after Machu Picchu and the most popular campsite due to its proximity to Machu Picchu. During the descent, we will visit two Inca ruins, Phuyupatamarca, also known as “village in the clouds”, and Intipata, known as “Terraces of the Sun”. We will arrive at the camp around 1:00 PM to have lunch and relax for the afternoon, in order to be rested and ready for the last day in Machu Picchu. At 4:30 PM, the guide will give a brief orientation and the hikers will visit the Inca ruins of Wiñay Wayna for about an hour and a half. During this visit, the importance of the site will be explained and all the information given during the hike will be combined to prepare the hikers for the visit to Machu Picchu the following day. On this excursion, we like to take care of our travelers and, as such, we organize a party in the evening to introduce the team of porters and cooks to the tourists once again and thank them for the excellent work done. If we wish to provide tips, we can do so at this time. It is advisable to go to sleep at a reasonable hour to get up early in the morning and arrive at Machu Picchu at sunrise, hoping that the weather will give us a beautiful view of the ruins of Machu Picchu.

  • Distance: 6.2 miles / 10 kilometers (5 hours)
  • Campsite Altitude: 2,600 meters above sea level (cold weather)
  • Considered: Easy day – all downhill!
  • Zone: High Cloud Forest
  • Climate: Warm and very humid
  • Campsite: Wiñayhuayna
  • Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Day 04: Wiñayhuayna – Sun Gate – Machu Picchu – Aguas Calientes

Wiñayhuayna (2,640 m.a.s.l.): We start our day by getting up early at 4:30 in the morning and enjoy breakfast as part of our last stage of the trek. Then, we wait at the checkpoint to be among the first to start the trek, as soon as the gates open at 5:30 AM. At this time, we say goodbye to the team that accompanied us during the trek and enter the Sun Gate (Inti Punku), from where we can admire the breathtaking views of the mountains and an imposing Machu Picchu in all its glory.

Inti Punku or Sun Gate (2,700 m.a.s.l.): Around 7:00 a.m. we arrive at the Sun Gate and begin a hike of approximately one hour, during which we climb the stairs that will lead us to the lost city of the Incas.

Machu Picchu (2,430 m.a.s.l.): As we approach Machu Picchu, the views of the city become increasingly impressive. Around 8:30 am, we will reach the last checkpoint and begin our two-hour private guided tour of Machu Picchu.

Aguas Calientes (2,040 m.a.s.l.): Once the tour is over, bus tickets will be given to the tourist so that they can head to Aguas Calientes and once there they will have a time span of between 3 and 4 hours to explore the area on their own. Afterwards, around 1:30 p.m., a meeting will be arranged at a restaurant in Aguas Calientes for the last group meal and to facilitate the accommodation in the tourist’s preferred hotel, allowing them to enjoy a pleasant night in the town.

Day 05: Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu – Huayna Picchu- Cusco

On the last day, we will get up early and take one of the first buses to Machu Picchu to appreciate the sunrise in the citadel. You will be able to visit Machu Picchu again and climb Huayna Picchu Mountain or Machu Picchu Mountain. At the conclusion of the tour of the citadel, we will return by bus to Aguas Calientes and then board the afternoon train back to Ollantaytambo. There, our bus will be waiting to take you back to Cusco and drop you off at your hotel.

Huayna Picchu (2,720 m.a.s.l.): To reach the top of Huayna Picchu you must walk for approximately 45 minutes. Upon arrival, you will be able to appreciate breathtaking views of Machu Picchu and the surrounding landscape.

  • Considered: The most exciting and magical day (early wake up 3.30am).
  • Zone: High Cloud and Subtropical Forest
  • Climate: hot and very humid (bring lots of water).
  • Food included: Breakfast

Which includes

What is included in the Inca Trail:

  • Transfer from the airport to your hotel (only Cusco and is optional).
  • Briefing at our office
  • Pick up from your hotel
  • Private transportation from Cusco to Piskacucho (private transportation).
  • Tents (big and comfortable)
  • Foam mattress
  • Professional guides with trekking experience
  • Meals as indicated in the itinerary (optional: vegetarian or other dietary needs upon request)
  • First aid kit including emergency oxygen tank.
  • Porter to carry camping tent, food and cooking equipment.
  • Hot water for washing.
  • Boiled water to refill your bottles.
  • Expedition tourist train from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo and transportation to Cusco.
  • Permission for the Classic Inca Trail and entrance to Machu Picchu and HUAYNA PICCHU archaeological complex.
  • Private toilet tent with toilet seat, for our group only
  • 2 hour guided tour of Machu Picchu
  • Bus tickets from Machu Picchu to Aguas Calientes.
  • Dining room, kitchen, camping tent, tables and chairs.
  • Chef and cooking equipment.
  • Pillow
  • Tea
  • Taxes

Recommendations

What to bring

  • Original passport (the same one used to book your trek)
  • Valid university card (if you have booked as a student)
  • Good backpack (the smaller the better – 30L OR 35L)
  • Water storage: 2-3 L (Camelbaks are recommended)
  • Comfortable hiking boots with ankle support.
  • Sleeping bag (can be rented from RAP Travel)
  • Headlamp: essential
  • Toilet paper
  • 2 T-shirts
  • At least 2 pairs of hiking pants
  • 4 sets of underwear
  • 3 sets of socks
  • Thermal jacket
  • Warm clothing, warm jacket
  • Waterproof gloves (even if they are ski gloves)
  • Comfortable shoes for camping.
  • Quick drying towel. We provide small ones, you may prefer something larger.
  • Small bottle of soap: we provide warm water each day for washing.
  • Battery charger: There is no electricity along the hike.
  • Plastic bags will be provided in the office. Please ask for them.
  • Sleeping bag: must be at least -15ºC. It can be rented from us for $20 USD.

Toiletries

  • Facial moisturizer
  • Hand sanitizer
  • Wet wipes
  • Toothbrush and toothpaste
  • Personal medications
  • First aid kit: band aids, etc.

What to put in your backpack

We strongly recommend to have a small trekking backpack of 30 to 40 L for the day in which you can carry the following things:

  • Sun hat
  • Sunscreen
  • Headlamp: unpredictable
  • Woolen hat
  • Rain gear
  • Wool
  • Snack such as chocolate bars, cereal bars or any dried fruit.
  • Coca leaves
  • Plastic rain poncho
  • Gloves
  • Camera
  • Hand sanitizer
  • Toilet paper and small plastic bag for waste.
  • Water: provide your own water until the first place for lunch, then we will provide cold boiled water at each meal time.
  • Please bring your canteens.

Prices

SHARED SERVICE TOUR

Inca Trail to Machu Picchu

PRICE PER PERSON

Minimum 02 people

Tour Summary

  • Transfer from the airport to your hotel (only Cusco and is optional)
  • Informative talk in our office
  • Day 01: Cusco – Piskacucho km 82 – Wayllabamba (camp)
  • Day 02: Wayllabamba – Llulluchapampa – Pacaymayu (campsite)
  • Day 03: Pacaymayu – Phuyupatamarca – Wiñayhuayna (camp)
  • Day 04: Wiñaywayna – Inti Punku – Aguas calientes
  • Day 05: Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu – Huayna Picchu- Cusco

What is included in the tour

  • Private transportation from Cusco to Piskacucho (private transportation).
  • Tents (big and comfortable)
  • Foam mattress
  • Professional guides with trekking experience
  • Meals as indicated in the itinerary (optional: vegetarian or other dietary needs upon request)
  • First aid kit including emergency oxygen tank.
  • Porter to carry camping tent, food and cooking equipment.
  • Hot water for washing.
  • Boiled water to refill your bottles.
  • Expedition tourist train from Aguas Calientes to
  • Ollantaytambo and transportation to Cusco.
  • Permit for the Classic Inca Trail and entrance to Machu Picchu and Huayna Picchu Archaeological Complex.
  • Private toilet tent with toilet seat, for our group only
  • 2 hour guided tour in Machu Picchu
  • Bus tickets from Machu Picchu to Aguas Calientes.
  • Dining room, kitchen, camping tent, tables and chairs.
  • Chef and cooking equipment.

TYPE OF TOURIST TRAIN

  • Departure and Return: Expedition or Voyager.

Important note:

The train service THE VOYAGER – Inca Rail or EXPEDITION Train – Peru Rail, if you prefer to add the service in VISTADOME Train the additional is US$ 45.00 per person round trip.

Differential prices for students, children, infants.

FAQS

Frequently Asked Questions from Travelers

What is the best time to travel to Cusco?

The best time to travel to Cusco is during the dry season, which runs from May to October. During this period, the weather is generally dry and sunny, with daytime temperatures ranging from 18°C to 22°C. Nights can be quite cold, with temperatures dropping to around 5°C, especially in June and July.g

The rainy season in Cusco runs from November to March, and during this period you can expect regular rains, especially in January and February. Rainfall can be heavy and can cause disruptions to transportation and tourist activities.

Keep in mind that, although the dry season is the best time to visit Cusco in terms of weather, it is also the busiest time in terms of tourism.

What is the weather like in Cusco?

The climate in Cusco varies according to the time of the year.

  • The dry season (April to October): During this time, the weather in Cusco is generally dry and sunny, with temperatures ranging between 18°C and 20°C. Nights can be cold, with temperatures dropping as low as 5°C. This is the best time to visit Cusco, as weather conditions are ideal for exploring the city and outdoor activities such as hiking and trekking.
  • Rainy season (November to March): During this season, Cusco experiences frequent rains and cooler temperatures, with an average temperature of 16°C. Nights can be cooler, with temperatures dropping as low as 3°C. Rainfall can be quite intense and prolonged, which can make outdoor activities difficult.

It is important to keep in mind that the weather in Cusco can be unpredictable, even during the dry season. It is advisable to wear appropriate clothing for the weather and be prepared for sudden changes in temperature and rain.

What to see in Machu Picchu?

  • The Intihuatana, The Temple of the Sun: a large ceremonial building, probably dedicated to the god Inti, the sun god in Inca mythology.
  • The Main Temple: A large structure with an impressive panoramic view of the nearby mountains.
  • The Main Street: The main road that runs through the center of the city and connects the main areas of Machu Picchu.
  • The Sun Gate: The main entrance to Machu Picchu and one of the most iconic points of the city.
  • The thermal baths: Inca system of thermal baths.
  • The Huayna Picchu mountain: an optional hike that offers even more impressive panoramic views of the ruins of Machu Picchu, the hike lasts 1 hour uphill to climb the Huayna Picchu mountain.

What to bring on my trip to Cusco?

If you are planning a trip to Cusco, there are some important items you should take with you to make sure you are comfortable and prepared for any situation. Some of the items you might consider bringing are:

  1. Appropriate clothing: Due to the variability of the climate in Cusco, it is important that you bring clothing suitable for different weather conditions. Include warm clothes for cold nights, comfortable clothes for walking, and comfortable, sturdy shoes for exploring the ruins and trails.
  2. Sunscreen: Cusco’s altitude means that the sun can be very strong during the day, so it is important to bring sunscreen to protect your skin.
  3. Water bottle: The altitude can also cause dehydration, so it is important to stay hydrated.
  4. Medications: If you take any medications regularly, make sure you bring enough for your trip. It is also a good idea to bring some basic medications for headaches, upset stomachs and colds.
  5. Cash: Although most places in Cusco accept credit cards, it is advisable to carry cash in Peruvian soles for shopping in local markets, paying for cabs and tipping.
  6. Plug adapter: If you are coming from another country, you may need a plug adapter for electrical outlets in Peru.
  7. Camera: Cusco is a beautiful place with many interesting landscapes and tourist attractions, so you will want to capture many memories in photos or videos.

Where is Huayna Picchu?

Huayna Picchu is a mountain located in Machu Picchu. It is located north of the archaeological site of Machu Picchu and is one of the most iconic mountains in the area.

The climb to the top of Huayna Picchu is a popular activity for visitors to Machu Picchu, as it offers a breathtaking panoramic view of the archaeological site and the surrounding area. However, the ascent is quite steep and can be challenging for some visitors, so it is recommended to be in good physical condition and take the necessary precautions to enjoy the experience safely.

What is Aguas Calientes like?

Aguas Calientes, also known as Machu Picchu Pueblo, is a small town located in the Urubamba River valley, near Machu Picchu. It is the starting point for most visitors who want to visit Machu Picchu, as it is where the train stations and access to the buses that take visitors to the entrance of Machu Picchu are located.

Aguas Calientes has a vibrant tourist atmosphere and is a fairly small town. There are a variety of hotels, restaurants, cafes, bars, souvenir stores and travel agencies to cater to visitors. Due to its location in a mountainous area, the city has many stairs and steep streets, but also offers breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding area.

In addition to serving as a base for visitors to Machu Picchu, Aguas Calientes has some tourist attractions of its own, such as the hot springs that give the town its name, a small historic church and some nearby Inca ruins.

Where is Inti Punku?

Inti Punku, also known as the Sun Gate, is an archaeological site located on the route of the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu. It is located at an altitude of 2,720 meters above sea level, and is the traditional entry point to the citadel of Machu Picchu.

It is a stone structure located on top of a mountain with breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and the Urubamba River valley.

The hike to Inti Punku is the final section of the Inca Trail route. Hikers can enjoy breathtaking views of the mountains and nature before reaching the ceremonial gate and getting their first view of the citadel of Machu Picchu.

Which camps will you visit during the trek?

  • Wayllabamba Camp: Wayllabamba camp is where hikers spend their first night on the Inca Trail after walking a steep and demanding section of the route. The camp has basic facilities such as tents, portable toilets and a common area for hikers to relax and socialize.
  • Runkuraqay Camp: Runkuraqay camp is the second camp on the Inca Trail route after Wayllabamba camp. Hikers spend their second night at this camp after hiking up a steep section of the trail and passing through the Warmiwañusca Pass (known as the Dead Woman’s Pass) at an altitude of 4,000 meters. The Runkuraqay camp has basic facilities such as tents, portable toilets and a common area for hikers to rest. The area around the camp is rocky and sparsely vegetated, but offers stunning views of the nearby mountains.
  • Wiñayhuayn Camp: Wiñay Wayna camp is the third and last camp on the Inca Trail route before reaching the citadel of Machu Picchu the following day. The camp is surrounded by vegetation and close to the archaeological site of Wiñay Wayna. The Wiñay Wayna camp has basic facilities such as tents, portable toilets and a common area for hikers to rest. The area around the camp has a lot of tropical plants and flowers, making it an ideal place to enjoy nature.

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