Luxury Inca Trail 5 Days and 4 Nights
The Inca Trail is widely renowned as one of South America’s most popular and iconic hikes if not the entire world. It’s an experience that everyone needs to do, especially when you’re in Peru.
With our Luxury Inca Trail Tour, you’ll embark on a captivating 45-km trek along ancient Inca pathways, revealing enigmatic archaeological sites, breathtaking mountain vistas, and vibrant cloud forests teeming with various plants and creatures. The journey culminates in the awe-inspiring Sacred Inca City of Machu Picchu. It covers a range of elevations, from 2700 m/ 8500 ft in the valley to mountain passes reaching 4215 m/ 13,825 ft.
This luxury Inca Trail 5-day program offers a refreshing change from the usual crowds on the 4-day classical route. It allows you to explore quieter, more remote campsites that will anyone who visits with awe. It’s a picturesque place that you will never forget. Plus, you don’t have to worry about bringing your kids as this 5-day tour is perfect for families since it helps them adjust to the altitude easier and involves less walking than the 4-day version.
Our luxury service, Inca Trail Trek, offers an array of indulgences that will surely enhance your trekking experience. Each night, you can enjoy relaxing massages to unwind after a day of adventure. All meals served, including breakfast, lunch, and dinner, are gourmet food and come with champagne to satisfy your taste buds and offer you a one-of-a-kind gastronomic experience. Even your camping equipment, such as tents, sleeping bags, mattresses, and dining utensils, is of luxury and the highest quality, ensuring your utmost comfort throughout the journey.
Moreover, as experts in their field, our private guides are always ready to share their extensive knowledge with you. This tour offers unique experiences, top-notch services, and exceptional accommodations that set it apart from competitors. Experience the ultimate Inca Trail trek with Active Peru Treks, where luxury meets adventure.
Overview of Our Luxury Inca Trail to Trek to Machu Picchu
Day 1: Cusco to Llactapata
Day 2: Llactapata to Llulluchapampa
Day 3: Llulluchapampa – Dead Woman’s Pass – Phuyupatamarca
Day 4: Phuyupatamarca to Machu Picchu to Aguas Calientes
Day 5: Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu to Cusco
- Duration: 5 days and 4 nights
- Distance: 45km / 28 miles
- Highest Elevation: 4,215 m/13,825 ft.
- Difficulty: Moderate – Challenging
INCA TRAIL LUXURY ITINERARY
Pre-Trek Briefing
Preparation is a must in every hike, so your guide will arrange a meeting with you at your hotel to provide a detailed briefing before the Luxury Inca Trail hike. Before departing Cusco, take advantage of this chance to ask any questions and complete any final shopping.
Day 1: The Adventure Begins with Cusco to Llactapata
Our 5-day Luxury Inca Trail adventure starts bright and early at 7:00 am from the vibrant City of Cusco, cruising in our comfy private transport, which will drive us to the starting point of the Inca Trail at km.82.
We’ll stroll alongside the mighty Urubamba River as we hit the trail, soaking in the scenic beauty. The path ahead offers a stroll on flat terrain until we reach Miskay. As we ascend further, we’ll soon see the jaw-dropping overlook that the majestic Inca city of Llactapata (2,750 m/9,020 ft).has to offer.
After taking in the awe-inspiring views, we’ll descend towards the ancient ruins, pitching our camp for the night, following an exhilarating 3-hour trek.
- Meals: Lunch/Dinner
- Accommodations: Luxury Camping
- Highest Elevation: 2,750 m/ 9.020 ft.
- Lowest Elevation: 2,720 m/8,922 ft.
- Distance to walk: 5 km/ 3.11 miles
- Approximate walking time: 2 ½ to 3 hours.
- Level of Difficulty: Easy
Day 2: From the Elevate Village of Llactapata to Llulluchapampa
We kick off bright and early, ready to conquer the valley carved by the mighty Kusichaca River. As we trek, get prepared for a feast for the eyes – the jaw-dropping Vilcanota mountain range stands tall across the Urubamba River, with the magnificent Veronica peak reigning supreme at a staggering (5,832 m/19,128 ft), making it the highest peak in the Urubamba mountain range.
As we leave the charming Wayllabamba, brace yourselves for a steep and rugged climb, spanning 9km, as we make our way towards the legendary Abra Warmihuañusca – also known as the Dead Woman’s pass. However, fret not, as we only need to reach the halfway point to set up camp at Llulluchapampa (3,800m/12,460 ft.) for the night, which is one of the highest points in the Inca Trail.
During the ascent, the scenery transitions from Sierra to Puna, a barren and elevated region with sparse vegetation. At that altitude, we’ll witness the delightful sight of domesticated llamas and alpacas happily munching on ichu, one of the rare plants that thrive in that environment. Additionally, we pass through a captivating cloud forest region, teeming with a diverse array of avian species, such as hummingbirds and sparrows. This lush habitat is also home to the Andean bear, also known as the Spectacled Bear (Tremarctus Ornatus).
- Meals: Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner
- Accommodations: Luxury Camping
- Highest Elevation: 3,800 m/ 12,460 ft.
- Lowest Elevation: 2,720 m/8,922 ft.
- Distance to walk: 12 km/ 7.46 miles.
- Approximate walking time: 5-6 hours
- Level of Difficulty: Moderate
Day 3: Climbing to the City Above the Clouds
Following breakfast, we proceed with our hike towards the summit of Abra Warmihuañusca (Dead Woman’s Pass – 4,200 m/13,776 ft), reaching in approximately 2 hours. As we catch our breath and soak in the awe-inspiring views from the pass, it’s time to take the plunge into the mystical Pacaymayo Valley (3,600 m/ 11,811 ft), and from there, we begin our ascent to the second pass, the Abra Runkurakay (3,970 m/13,022 ft).
At the midway point, we stop at the archaeological complex that shares its name. This site is at an impressive altitude of 3,800 m/ 12,464 ft. It features a charming oval structure thought to have functioned as a watchtower.
Once we cross the pass, we make our way down towards Yanacocha (Black Lagoon) and venture into the enchanting cloud forest before reaching Sayacmarca (3,624 m/11,887 ft), famously known as the Dominant Town, a fortress built by the Colla. This complex is a stunning masterpiece, featuring a semicircular construction, enclosures at various levels, charming narrow streets, elegant fountains, inviting patios, and intricate irrigation canals. Ascending a straightforward route, we reach the third pass known as Abra Phuyupatamarca (3,680 m/12,073 ft).
During this climb, get ready to marvel at the incredible craftsmanship of the Incas, with their cleverly built paths that seem to be floating above the mountainside. The rocks are meticulously placed, forming a seamless barrier that protects the trail from the rugged Andean terrain.
Be ready to set up camp at Phuyupatamarca, famously known as the City Above the Clouds. Rightfully so, as from above, you will be welcomed with captivating views of water fountains with sturdy foundations, along with breathtaking views of the Urubamba River valley.
- Meals: Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner
- Accommodations: Luxury Camping
- Highest Elevation: 4,215 m/ 13,825 ft.
- Lowest Elevation: 3,600 m/ 11,811 ft.
- Distance to walk: 15 km/ 9.32 miles.
- Approximate walking time: 8-9 hours
- Level of Difficulty: Challenging
Day 4: Journey to the Lost City
On the fourth day of our hike, we can witness a genuinely breathtaking sunrise along the Inca Trail. If the sky is clear, the location of Phuyupatamarca provides stunning views at this time of day.
To start our journey, we embark on a trip down the ancient stone steps, guiding us to the enchanting destination of Wiñay Wayna (2,650m/8,692ft). Wiñay Wayna is built into a remarkable hillside overlooking the Urubamba River near Machu Picchu. It features a sprawling complex with an agricultural center with multiple terraces, a religious sector, and an urban sector.
From Wiñay Wayna, we’ll head towards Intipunku (2,745m/9,005 ft), known as The Sun Gate. The path, adorned with flat stones, offers a thrilling yet manageable hike that will captivate your senses. We can admire breathtaking views of the iconic Machu Picchu from this fantastic location.
After a challenging but rewarding trek to Machu Picchu, buffet lunch will be served at the famous Belmond Sanctuary Lodge which is located right outside the city of Machu Picchu. Then, we go down from Intipunku and hop on a bus to Aguas Calientes.
Once we arrive in Aguas Calientes, a luxurious hotel awaits. We will enjoy a delightful dinner at your Aguas Calientes hotel.
- Meals: Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner
- Accommodations: Sumaq Machu Picchu or Inakaterra El Pueblo hotel.
- Highest Elevation: 3,680 m/12,073 ft.
- Lowest Elevation: 2,040 m/6,691 ft.
- Distance to walk: 11 km/ 6.84 miles.
- Approximate walking time: 5 hours
- Level of Difficulty: Moderate
Day 5: Machu Picchu to Cusco
Start your day with a delicious breakfast at your hotel before embarking on an early morning adventure to Machu Picchu, where you’ll witness a breathtaking sunrise. Once you arrive, you’ll be treated to a delightful 2-to-3-hour walking tour of the site.
You can climb Huayna Picchu mountain, but if you’d rather explore the site, you can do so before hopping on a bus back to Aguas Calientes.
The excursion train to Poroy will be waiting for you when you return to Aguas Calientes. The return train to Poroy Train station is the famous and luxurious Belmond Hiram Bingham where you will enjoy, dinner, drinks, music, and more. From Poroy, we will arrange for a minivan to transport you to Cusco, where you will be dropped off to your accommodation.
We are rated highly on TripAdvisor, our reputation echoes through hundreds of elated trekkers. The praise from our travelers propels us to continually refine our offerings, ensuring an exceptional journey for every adventurer.
- Meals: Breakfast/Lunch
- Highest Elevation: 2,693 m/8,835 ft.
- Lowest Elevation: 2,040 m/6,691 ft.
- Level of Difficulty: Easy
Services Included in Our Luxury Inca Trail to Machu Picchu:
- Professional tour guides who can speak English (2 guides for groups of 8+ people)
- Pre-departure briefing
- Pick up from your hotel in Cusco or the Sacred Valley
- Private transport to km. 82 (starting point of the trail)
- Inca Trail entrance fee
- Machu Picchu entrance fee Circuit 1 (day 5)
- Big, durable personal tents (we allow 2 people to allow for better comfort and safekeeping of backpacks)
- One inflatable sleeping pad per person (luxury)
- Bed feather duvets, cotton sheets, blankets and pillows.
- Lamps for tents
- Dining tent with tables and chairs
- Kitchen tent
- Toilet tent with biodegradable toilet facilities
- Gourmet chef and cooking equipment
- Porters to carry tents, food and cooking equipment
- Porters to carry personal gear up to a maximum of 10 kg per person
- Massage service in the afternoon upon arrival to the campsite—one massage therapist for every 3 guests in the group
- Accommodation for all our staff
- Maximum hygiene stainless steel cutlery
- Gourmet meals for breakfast, lunch, and dinner + daily morning snack + daily tea service except last day (vegetarian or special menus are available at no extra cost)
- Beverages, including soft drinks, wine, Pisco sour, champagne
- Buffet lunch at the famous Belmond Sanctuary Lodge (located right outside the city of Machu Picchu) on Day 5.
- Amenities kit including biodegradable soaps, hand towels, and snack textile bags
- Camping hot shower facilities + towels
- Hot water every morning and evening for washing purposes / boiled water to fill in your water bottle every morning and night, and at lunch time
- First-aid kit including emergency oxygen bottle
- Ticket to climb Huayna Picchu mountain
- Transport and transfers:
- Bus ticket from Machu Picchu to Aguas Calientes – Day 4
- Round trip bus ticket Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu – Aguas Calientes – Day 5
- Return train ticket to Poroy train station via the famous and luxurious Belmond Hiram Bingham, including dinner, drinks, and music
- Private transport from Poroy to your Cusco hotel.
Services Not Included:
- Breakfast on the first day
- Tips for porters, chefs, and guide
- Trekking Poles (which you can rent from us)
PRICE:
- USD$3850 per person
Rentals:
- Hiking poles – US$25.00 (pair)
Upgrades:
- Belmond Sanctuary Lodge Machu Picchu Hotel – USD $1300 Per person per night (double occupancy)
LUXURY INCA TRAIL 2025 FAQs.
Why the Inca Trail is so popular?
The Trail is a microcosm; lush green cloud forest alive with birds, Andean peaks and steep mountain passes, a landscape dotted with centuries old Inca ruins, accessible only to those that follow this most famous pathway.
However, as truly beautiful as the hike may be, the real reason for its popularity lies at the very end of this four-day adventure; passing through the famous Sun Gate for that first magical sighting of Machu Picchu in the distance. Only Inca Trail hikers can access the gate early in the morning, and it is this crescendo, at one of the new seven wonders of the world which makes this hike a feature on so many ‘South America bucket lists’. The Inca Trail is the best way to arrive at one of the world’s most iconic attractions.
How far in advance should I reserve my permit for the Luxury Inca Trail Tour to Machu Picchu?
Everyone should book their Inca Trail permit as far in advance as possible. The Inca trail permits are in super high demand as they do offer access to one of the top hiking trails on the planet! It’s very common that permits for certain months of the year to sell out completely for the upcoming season in just a matter of days or hours. On top of that, permits are non-refundable or transferable, so if any hikers who have purchased permits subsequently cancel them, they won’t become available again at a later date in the government system.
The Peruvian government releases all the permits in bulk throughout the month of October for the upcoming year. For example, for a hike in 2026, you can expect permits to be released in October 2025. The best way to ensure you’re in the running for your chosen trek date is to have your Inca Trail pre-booked for the upcoming year before the permits are released in October 2025.
A general rule to follow is to book permits for the Inca Trail at least six to eight months in advance to ensure trail availability for treks on the Inca Trail route.
Although 500 Inca Trail permits are available each day, around 300 of those are allocated to porters and guides, so in reality there are really only 200 permits a day for hikers.
How many Inca Trail permits are issued per day?
The number of permits for the Inca Trail offered was cut back in 2005 so that there’s now only 500 up for grabs each day. To put that into perspective, that’s around a third of the 1,500 people and porters who were estimated to have hiked the trail prior to the start of restrictions in 2002. So, it’s hardly a surprise that there’s always a scramble to get permits!
To make matters worse, a majority of the 500 permits that are issued daily are set aside for guides, porters, and cooks. Roughly 300 Inca Trail permits go to the support teams, leaving limited trail availability, allowing only 200 for travelers looking to get on the Inca Trail hike to Machu Picchu.
There is some good news. The Peruvian government recently added another extra 250 permits for sole use on the Short Inca Trail hike. the 2-day short Inca Trail is essentially the final day of the Classic and Premium Inca Trail route with some variations in the beginning of the hike.
Permits for the Short Inca Trail hike is in far less demand, but it has helped to free up the entire batch of original permits for trekkers eager to commit to the classic 4-day or Premium 5 day Inca Trail.
Note: Once the permit has been issued, you can not alter or change any details, so be sure you get them correct from the start
Does the Inca Trail trip include your Machu Picchu entrance ticket?
Yep, the cost of entry is included in the trip price and it’s the responsibility of the tour company to take care of all that and provide you with the ticket on the day you’re entering the site.
Is there a waiting list for sold out trekking dates?
No, there is no waiting list for permits. Permits are only available for purchase through the Peruvian government. Once a permit is purchased for one person, the permit cannot be refundable or transferred to another individual
Where do I store my luggage during the Inca Trail Trek?
Your Cusco hotel will store your luggage for free while you will be on the trek. We can also store your extra luggage at our office in Cusco if needed.
Is it possible to do without a tour company or guide?
Since June 2002 trekking independently on the Inca Trail has been prohibited. Access to the Inca Trail is strictly controlled by the Peruvian government and your trek must be organized through a tour operator.
Only specific licensed companies like Eco Andes Trekking are permitted to lead groups on the 5-day Inca Trail, 4-day Inca Trail and 2-day Inca Trail routes.
Companies must meet certain basic requirements proving that they have professional guides and good camping equipment, radio communications and emergency first aid including oxygen. Their license is renewed each year
Is it possible to enter with different name?
No, you need to carry your valid ID (passport) to enter the trek park.
What is the terrain like? And how difficult is the Inca Trail hike?
It’s not our most challenging trek, but you will be walking over hilly and rugged terrain with lots of stairs. Expect some long, steep ascents too. Most of the hiking is on fairly well-defined tracks, including some remarkable sections of ancient Inca stone “highways”.
The entire 5-day trail hike is 28 miles so the distances traveled each day are not terribly long. Although it is generally accepted that anyone who is accustomed to hiking and camping (i.e., walking for several hours and sleeping in tents) can hike the Inca Trail, the altitude can make hiking these distances feel about twice as difficult as hiking the same distance at sea level.
With the help of porters carrying your personal gear (7 kg per hiker), you’ll only need to worry about carrying a day pack of around 4 kg including your water, camera and clothing layers.
Which campsites do you use along the Luxury Inca Trail?
Campsites may change depending on booking time and availability, weather conditions or on restrictions undertaken for safety reasons by the Peruvian Government.
We generally try to camp in less trafficked areas so that trekkers can enjoy the natural beauty of the Inca Trail and minimize environmental impacts.
Our regular campsite choice is Hatunchaca, Llulluchapampa and Phuyupatamarca
What do I need to carry on the trek?
We recommend that travelers carry the items that they will need each day while hiking such as water, snacks, camera and film.
Our porters will carry 10 kg of each of your personal gear including the camping equipment during the trek. We will give you a duffel bag for those belongings at the time of your pre trek briefing.
We generally ask trekkers to bring only the necessary items that they will need for the trail and leave any unneeded luggage at the hotel in Cusco or at our office.
How big are the groups on our Luxury Inca Trail Trek?
Our groups are usually small. Average is 3 to 5 people and maximum 16 people plus the trekking team.
What is the best time of year to hike the Luxury Inca Trail?
The best time to hike the Inca Trail is during the dry season – generally May to October.
The rainy season comes on slowly in November and December and is at its strongest from January through early April. Of course, the flora surrounding the trail and among the ruins themselves will be at its greenest during and just after the rains.
So May, June, July and August are the most popular months as folks take advantage of the combination of drier weather with the greener hillsides.
Is the Luxury Inca Trail trek to Machu Picchu always open?
The Inca Trail is open 11 months of the year (March through January). It is closed every February for maintenance
PRICE PER PERSON IN USD:
Price : $3850
DURATION:
5 Days / 4 Night
AVAILABLE ADD-ONS
- Belmond Sanctuary Lodge Machu Picchu Hotel – USD $1300 Per person per night (double occupancy)
- Trekking Poles – USD $25 per person
OVERVIEW
- Duration: 5 Days, 4 Night
- Day 1: Cusco – Km 82 – Chamana
- Day 2: Chamana – Wayllabamba – Ayapata – Llulluchapampa
- Day 3: Llulluchapampa – Dead Woman’s Pass – Chaquicocha- Phuyupatamarca
- Day 4: Phuyupatamarca – Wiñay Wayna – Sun Gate – Machu Picchu – Aguas Calientes
- Day 5: Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu – Cusco
- Beginning Altitude: 2,720 m/8,922 ft.
- Maximum Altitude:4,215 m/13,825 ft.
- Hike Total Distance: 45 km/28 miles
- Overall Trek Difficulty: Moderate
INQUIRE ABOUT THIS EXPERIENCE
WHY WE'RE DIFFERENT
Your Full Satisfaction or Your Money Back
We understand planning a big trip like ours at EAT takes a lot of trust, and we’re here to make sure that trust pays off from the moment you book to the day your adventure wraps up. We’re fully committed to making your experience unforgettable. If something doesn’t go as planned—whether it’s an issue with the service or something unexpected along the way—we’ll step in to fix it.
That even includes offering a refund if needed so you can book with total peace of mind.
Your Peruvian adventure means the world to us, and we’ll go the extra mile to make sure it not only meets but exceeds your expectations. With our satisfaction guarantee, you can relax and focus on taking in all the incredible beauty and culture Peru has to offer.
We Help You Experience Peru Through The Eyes of a Local
We’re 100% locally owned and operated, with guides, porters, and chefs who grew up in the Cusco region. Fluent in Spanish, English, and Quechua, our team brings unmatched cultural and historical knowledge to share with you. Traveling with us means gaining insight into Peru’s traditions, landscapes, and stories from those who know them best.
We Work With Professional Guides Who Provide Exceptional Service
Our guides are the best of the best. Truly skilled experts with at least 5 years of experience, every guide we employ is ready to share their expertise on Peru’s trails, culture, and history. Our porters are no exception. They work hard to make your journey one for the books, while our chefs will prepare you delicious meals along the way. With a 99% recommendation rate, we’re dedicated to making every detail of your trip unforgettable.
We’re Committed to Our Team
Our porters and horsemen are easily the backbone of every trek. That’s why we are fully committed to prioritizing their well-being. We ensure they’re paid above-average wages—higher than those offered by most tour companies—recognizing their hard work and dedication to the team. Beyond fair pay, we truly care for their well-being, providing proper gear, meals, and working conditions so they’re not just safe but comfortable, too.
We Look Out for Our Community
A portion of every trek we sell supports local projects, like helping fund a much-needed school roof in Sacsayhuaman, where many of our team live. For years, children in the area had no nearby school and faced grueling four-hour walks in harsh conditions to get an education. Today, thanks to these contributions, they have a local school, and we continue to donate to its upkeep—because making an impact goes beyond the trek.
We Customize Our Adventures to Suit Your Travel Style
We want every trip to feel like it was made just for you. Whether you’re keen on hiking the famous Inca Trail, exploring lesser-known spots in the Sacred Valley, or tackling our one-of-a-kind Ancashcocha + Inca Trail trek, we’ll plan your adventure to fit your travel style. To keep things personal, we keep group sizes small—and if your group is larger than eight, we’ll bring in an extra guide so no one misses out on the experience.
We Travel with Purpose – Serving the Women, Children, & Men of Peru
Every journey with us has a ripple effect. Your adventure supports ethical tourism, fair wages for porters, and opportunities for female trekkers–many of whom are breaking barriers on the Inca Trail–and children. We’re passionate about creating opportunities for local children to grow up healthy and learn about everything their heart desires. Through initiatives like repairing schools, donating educational materials, and funding projects, we make it a mission to build a brighter future for kids in the Cusco region. Every trek you take with us contributes to this mission. When you book with us, you’re not just exploring Peru; you’re investing in it and setting a standard for all other tourism companies and tourists.
Our Reputation is Built on Trust
Year after year, Eco Andes Trekking has earned top ratings on TripAdvisor and the prestigious Certificate of Excellence. We’ve worked hard for these awards and are proud to see our hard work recognized. Even prouder to know our travelers leave with unforgettable memories and stories worth sharing.
We Travel Sustainably & Responsibly
Peru’s landscapes are magnificent. That’s why we work so hard to protect them. We prioritize sustainable traveling by working with our local communities and employing indigenous guides––thus promoting economic empowerment and preserving cultural heritage. Along the journey, we’ll always encourage travelers to embrace responsible practices as advocates for the environment.
