Highlights
- Walk through a protected section of the Inca road network within the Historical Sanctuary of Machu Picchu.
- It distributes the tour in five days to reduce the pressure of the initial days and devote more time to the archaeological sites.
- Sleep in assigned camps within the Inca Trail network, away from urban and rail traffic.
- Walk among queuña forests, pajonals, stone slopes and areas where the fog can cover the trail in a few minutes.
- Cross mountain passes where temperature, wind and the least amount of oxygen force you to move forward calmly.
- Observe Machu Picchu from the top when visibility conditions allow it.
Trip Details
- Duration: 5 days and 4 nights.
- Trail start point: Kilometer 82, Piscacucho.
- General route: Cusco – Ollantaytambo – Km 82 – Llactapata – Llulluchapampa – Warmiwañusca – Runkurakay – Sayacmarca – Phuyupatamarca – Intipata – Wiñay Wayna – Intipunku – Machu Picchu.
- Difficulty: High, when applicable to the confirmed itinerary and operating conditions.
- Maximum altitude: Warmiwañusca, approximately 4,215 m / 13,829 feet.
- Total reference distance: Between 42 and 46 km, according to camps and authorized routes.
- Food: Four breakfasts, four lunches, four dinners and snacks.
- Guide: Tourism professional, when applicable to the confirmed itinerary and operating conditions.
- Assistant Guide: According to the number of participants.
- Departure: Only after confirming permits, personnel, trains and camps.
Itinerary
Cusco – Kilometer 82 – Llactapata
Highlight of the day: Start by the Urubamba River and first Inca structures of the tour.
The pick up will be made early from the hotels located within our operating area of Cusco. Then we will travel by tourist transport to the Sacred Valley and Ollantaytambo.
We will continue to Piscacucho, at kilometer 82 of the railway. At this point is one of the entrance controls to the Inka Road Network.
Before we begin, our team will distribute the luggage and verify the documents. Each passenger must present the passport used for the purchase of the permit.
We will cross the bridge over the Urubamba River and start a day of moderate difficulty. The trail has progressive slopes and sectors exposed to the sun.
During the first few hours we will walk through a relatively dry valley. The snowy Veronica will be observed north when there are no clouds.
The road will pass through small rural areas and archaeological sectors linked to the old road system. From the enabled viewpoints we can observe Llactapata, a complex formed by terraces and constructions located near the valley.
The term Llactapata can be translated as an elevated village or place located on a hillside. The guide will explain its possible function within the route to Machu Picchu.
The exact location of the first camp will depend on the official assignment. The trade name “Llactapata” may refer to the general sector, but the authority may provide another authorized camp in the same section.
Upon arrival, the porters will have installed the shops and dining area. We will have a hot drink, dinner and explanation about the next day.
The night is usually temperate compared to higher altitude camps, although the temperature may drop after sunset.
Technical Details
- Transportation: Tourist vehicle from Cusco to Km 82.
- Estimated distance: Between 10 and 12 km.
- Initial altitude: Km 82, approximately 2,720 m.
- Difficulty: Moderate, when applicable to the confirmed itinerary and operating conditions.
- Land: Earth, stone and open roads.
- Accommodation: Camp authorized, when applicable to the confirmed itinerary and operating conditions.
- Meals: Lunch and dinner.
Llactapata – Huayllabamba – Llulluchapampa
Highlight of the day: Progressive rise to the last camp before Warmiwanusca.
After breakfast we will continue to the Huayllabamba Valley.
This day allows to gain altitude gradually and prepare the body for the next day. The trail will traverse agricultural land, native trees and sectors where humidity begins to increase.
The original trade route mentions a visit to Paucarcancha. Please note that this site is not always part of the direct route to Llulluchapampa. Its inclusion will depend on the permit, the assigned camp, the schedule and the variant authorized by the administration of the Inca Trail.
We will not add detours that may put the schedule at risk or breach the approved itinerary.
After lunch we will start a more constant promotion. The road will pass through areas of Andean vegetation and irregular steps.
As we go along, the air will be cooler and the breath may feel heavier. The goal will not be to walk fast, but to maintain a rhythm that we can hold.
We will reach the sector of Llulluchapampa, located approximately 3,800 m / 12,467 feet, subject to this camp being assigned for departure.
This place allows to divide the strong ascent towards Warmiwanusca. It can also offer sweeping views of the mountains and valley tour during the day.
The camp will be cold. We recommend changing wet clothes as soon as we finish the walk and use several layers before dinner.
Technical Details
- Transportation: Motorized transport is not used.
- Estimated distance: Between 8 and 11 km.
- Initial altitude: Subject to the first day camp.
- Final altitude: Llulluchapampa, approximately 3,800 m.
- Difficulty: Moderate to high.
- Land: Earth, stone, steps and prolonged slopes.
- Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner.
Llulluchapampa – Warmiwañusca – Runkurakay – Sayacmarca – Phuyupatamarca
Highlight of the day: Crossing two mountain passes and touring Runkurakay and Sayacmarca.
We’ll start early with a hot drink and breakfast. This will be the longest and most demanding day.
From Llulluchapampa we will begin the final ascent to Warmiwanusca. The slope is marked and the terrain combines soil, stone steps and sectors open to the wind.
Warmiwañusca means “dead woman” and receives that name by the shape of the mountain observed from certain points of the valley.
We will reach approximately 4.215 m / 13,829 feet, the maximum altitude of the route.
In this sector, the climate can change rapidly. There may be sun, wind, fog, rain or hail during the same morning.
We will remain the time needed to rest and take pictures, but we will not make an excessively long stop due to the cold.
Then we will descend an extensive staircase to the valley of Pacaymayo. The descent can affect the knees, so canes with rubber protectors will be of great help.
After a break and lunch, we will start another ascent to Runkurakay.
Runkurakay features a semicircular structure built next to the road. Its position allows visual control of the valley and the nearby accesses.
We will continue towards a second mountain pass, located approximately 3,950 m. Then the descent to Sayacmarca will begin.
Sayacmarca is located on a rocky elevation and is entered by a narrow stone path. The set contains enclosures, canals and spaces adapted to the slope.
The day will continue through stretches of cloud forest, tunnels, staircases and roads built on steep slopes.
We will arrive in Phuyupatamarca during the afternoon. The name is usually interpreted as populated by the clouds, due to its elevated location over the montane forest.
On clear days you can see mountains and extensive valleys. The presence of Machu Picchu at a distance depends on the exact point, vegetation and visibility; it should not be guaranteed as a complete view.
Technical Details
- Transportation: Motorized transport is not used.
- Estimated distance: Between 15 and 18 km.
- Initial altitude: Llulluchapampa, approximately 3,800 m.
- Final altitude: Phuyupatamarca, approximately 3,680 m.
- Difficulty: Very high, when applicable to the confirmed itinerary and operating conditions.
- Land: Stairs, stone, slopes, tunnels and wet areas.
- Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner.
Phuyupatamarca – Intipata – Wiñay Wayna – Intipunku – Machu Picchu – Ruins Bridge
Highlight of the day: Arrival in Machu Picchu by Intipunku after touring Wiñay Wayna.
After breakfast we will tour the archaeological sector of Phuyupatamarca, known for its terraces, enclosures and water systems.
Then we will begin a long descent by stone stairs. Some sections may be moist and covered in vegetation.
We will cross the montane forest, where it is possible to observe orchids, ferns, bromeliads, mosses and small birds. Wildlife is not guaranteed and usually moves away when there is noise.
We will reach Intipata, a set of terraces built on a hillside facing the Urubamba valley.
We will continue to Wiñay Wayna, one of the best preserved resorts of the route. Its terraces descend down the mountain and are connected by stairs and canals.
After lunch or final refreshment, depending on the authorized distribution, we will walk to Intipunku.
The last climb includes the well-known “mono ladder”, a short and steep stretch where many people use their hands to maintain balance.
When crossing Intipunku we can have the first view of Machu Picchu, provided that there is no fog or rain. The official administration recognizes Intipunku as one of the routes linked to the current circuit system, although access from the Inca Trail responds to the specific permission of the network.
We will descend to Machu Picchu following the instructions of the control staff.
The entry of the fourth day is mainly used to cross the authorized sector and take the photographs allowed from the route. The detailed archaeological visit will be made the next day.
Then we will leave for Puente Ruinas or Aguas Calientes.
The original program considers a camp in Puente Ruinas. Tonight can only be offered when the space is authorized and is part of the confirmed operation. When not available, Peceros Agency Travel may propose accommodation in Aguas Calientes with the appropriate adjustment.
Technical Details
- Transportation: Walk and possible local transfer at the end.
- Estimated distance: Between 10 and 13 km.
- Initial altitude: Phuyupatamarca, approximately 3,680 m.
- Difficulty: Moderate to high.
- Land: Long stairs, wet stone and earrings.
- Accommodation: Authorized camp in Puente Ruinas or confirmed alternative.
- Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner.
Machu Picchu – Aguas Calientes – Ollantaytambo – Cusco
Highlight of the day: Guided tour of Machu Picchu and return by train to the Sacred Valley.
We will get up early and head to the bus boarding point.
The program includes the first service available, but the final schedule will depend on the Machu Picchu ticket and the authorized operation.
The journey from Aguas Calientes to the access usually takes about 25 to 30 minutes.
Upon arrival you must present:
- Original passport, when applicable to the confirmed itinerary and operating conditions.
- Entrance to Machu Picchu.
- Original university card, where applicable.
- Additional documentation requested by the authority.
- We will enter through the assigned circuit.
Machu Picchu uses three general circuits divided into ten routes. Each ticket allows you to travel only through the printed route; it is not possible to freely change circuits within the site.
Our guide will provide an explanation of approximately two hours. The observed sectors will depend on the confirmed entry.
Not all routes include the same temples, terraces, squares or photographic points.
After leaving, we will return to Aguas Calientes by bus. The ticket is included in the original program.
You will have time to have lunch on your own and pick up your luggage.
In the afternoon we will board the train to Ollantaytambo. Upon arrival, a tourist vehicle will transfer us to Cusco.
Technical Details
- Transportation: Bus, train and tourist vehicle.
- Machu Picchu Altitude: Approximately 2,430 m.
- Difficulty: Easy to moderate.
- Land: Stairs and stone paths.
- Climate: Tempered, humid and variable.
- Meal included: Breakfast, when applicable to the confirmed itinerary and operating conditions.
- End of service: Cusco.
Special Requirements
Please inform our reservations team before booking. Early notice allows us to evaluate access, transport space, route suitability and any required permits.
Passengers using crutches, prosthetics, medical equipment, professional cameras, drones or bulky devices must report before booking. This route is not suitable for wheelchairs or people with severely reduced mobility.
Notes on Peceros Agency Travel
Pick-up and Return
The pickup is made from accommodations located within our operating area of Cusco. When the hotel is on a street without vehicle access, a nearby meeting point will be established.
Luggage
Large suitcases must remain in the hotel in Cusco. Luggage delivered to the carrier will not be available during the walk.
Payments and Changes
A down payment is required to purchase the permits and confirm the transaction. Part of the payment will be non-refundable once the permits and services have been issued. The balance must be paid within the date indicated.
Passport changes
When you renew your passport after booking, you should inform the agency immediately. You must appear at the station as far as indicated. The upgrade to Vistadome is subject to availability and additional payment.
Circuit 1 – Panoramic
Route 1-A: Machu Picchu Mountain. Route 1-C: Intipunku Cover, available in high season. 1-D route: Inca Bridge, available in high season.
Transport information
The program includes:
- Vehicle from Cusco to Km 82.
- Hike for four days.
- Bus from Machu Picchu to Aguas Calientes.
- Train from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo.
- Vehicle from Ollantaytambo to Cusco.
- Vehicles do not enter the trail.
- The porters transport the equipment during the walk.
- Rail times can change by operator decisions.
Travel restrictions
Strikes and demonstrations
Strikes can block roads or railways.
When there is advance information, Peceros Agency Travel may advance transfers or modify connections.
Where it is not possible to operate safely, the tour may be suspended.
The decision will be coordinated by our operations team.
Lost objects
The passenger is responsible for his belongings.
Before leaving a camp, vehicle, train or restaurant, check:
- Carry the original passport used for the reservation, as it may be required for identity and ticket verification.
- Carry a reasonable amount of cash in Peruvian soles for small purchases and services that do not accept cards.
- Keep a charged phone available for operational messages, tickets and emergency contact.
- Bring a camera or phone protected from rain, dust and accidental impacts.
- Carry any prescribed personal medication in an accessible part of your daypack.
- Use a small, comfortable backpack for documents, water, clothing layers and personal essentials.
- Clothing, when applicable to the confirmed itinerary and operating conditions.
The company cannot guarantee the recovery of forgotten objects.
Physical condition
This walk has high difficulty.
Includes:
- A step above 4,200 meters.
- Extended stairs, when applicable to the confirmed itinerary and operating conditions.
- Days of up to ten hours.
- High-altitude camps, when applicable to the confirmed itinerary and operating conditions.
- Rapid changes of climate.
- Seniors must have medical clearance.
Medical conditions
Those with heart, respiratory, circulatory, neurological or joint diseases should consult their doctor.
The agency must know any relevant conditions before departure.
Bad height
Symptoms may include:
- Headache, when applicable to the confirmed itinerary and operating conditions.
- nausea, when applicable to the confirmed itinerary and operating conditions.
- Dizziness, when applicable to the confirmed itinerary and operating conditions.
- tiredness, when applicable to the confirmed itinerary and operating conditions.
- Loss of appetite, when applicable to the confirmed itinerary and operating conditions.
- Difficulty sleeping, when applicable to the confirmed itinerary and operating conditions.
- Inform the guide from the first symptom.
Pregnancy
We do not recommend this walk during pregnancy due to the height, duration and distance from medical centers.
Evacuations
There is no vehicular access for much of the tour.
An evacuation may require porters, stretcher, assistance from authorities, or transfer to an accessible extent.
Travel insurance must cover evacuation and high altitude walks.
Climate
They may present:
- Rain, when applicable to the confirmed itinerary and operating conditions.
- Hail, when applicable to the confirmed itinerary and operating conditions.
- Fog, when applicable to the confirmed itinerary and operating conditions.
- Cold, when applicable to the confirmed itinerary and operating conditions.
- Wind, when applicable to the confirmed itinerary and operating conditions.
- Mud, when applicable to the confirmed itinerary and operating conditions.
- Slipping steps, when applicable to the confirmed itinerary and operating conditions.
- Fall of stones, when applicable to the confirmed itinerary and operating conditions.
- The guide can modify schedules for safety.
Environmental and archaeological standards
It is prohibited:
- Get off the trail.
- Touch or climb on walls.
- Remove stones or plants.
- Leave trash, when applicable to the confirmed itinerary and operating conditions.
- Make fire outside of permitted areas.
- Using drones without authorization.
- Alter the camps, when applicable to the confirmed itinerary and operating conditions.
- Enter with pets, when applicable to the confirmed itinerary and operating conditions.
- Disobey the official staff.
Important information
The five-day Inca Trail is not simply the classic program with an extra night.
Its value is to better distribute the effort, reduce the rush in the archaeological sites and reach Machu Picchu during the fourth day.
Still, it’s still a demanding walk. The third day concentrates mountain passes, long stairs and several hours of walking.
Permissions are personal, limited and difficult to modify after issuance.
Arriving with physical preparation, correct documents and realistic expectations allows you to take advantage of this route with greater security.
Inclusions
- Previous information talk. as part of the confirmed itinerary.
- Review of the baggage. as part of the confirmed itinerary.
- Pick-up from the stated hotel area or a nearby coordinated point when vehicle access is restricted.
- Tourist transportation in a vehicle selected according to the group size and route conditions.
- Professional guide for route coordination, assistance and interpretation of the main sites.
- Cook. as part of the confirmed itinerary.
- Porters for the collective team. as part of the confirmed itinerary.
- Personal carrier for up to 9 kg, when expressly included. as part of the confirmed itinerary.
- Entry permit to the Inca Trail. as part of the confirmed itinerary.
- Entrance ticket for the attraction specified in the booking confirmation.
- Camping accommodation and equipment according to the confirmed trek program.
- Shop for four people used by two passengers. as part of the confirmed itinerary.
- Basic mat. as part of the confirmed itinerary.
- Tables and chairs. as part of the confirmed itinerary.
- Kitchen equipment. as part of the confirmed itinerary.
- Breakfast at a selected local establishment, according to the itinerary.
- Lunch at a selected local restaurant; dietary requests must be reported in advance.
- Dinner according to the program and the service available at the overnight location.
- Four refreshments. as part of the confirmed itinerary.
- Vegetarian options with advance notice. as part of the confirmed itinerary.
- Boiled water after the first supply point. as part of the confirmed itinerary.
- A basic first-aid kit carried by the guide for initial assistance during the route.
- Emergency oxygen for initial assistance at altitude; it does not replace professional medical care.
- Bus transportation for the segment specified in the confirmed itinerary.
- Train service according to the schedule and category confirmed in the reservation.
- Operational assistance before and during the tour for the services included in the booking.
- Meals not specifically indicated in the itinerary, including personal orders and upgrades.
- Bottled water, snacks and additional drinks purchased during the route.
- Sleeping bag rental unless it appears as included in the reservation.
- Canes.; this cost is payable directly by the traveler when required.
- Inflatable mattress.; this cost is payable directly by the traveler when required.
- Individual shop.; this cost is payable directly by the traveler when required.
- Additional carrier not indicated.; this cost is payable directly by the traveler when required.
- Entrance fees not expressly listed as included; these must be paid separately when required.
- Additional routes.; this cost is payable directly by the traveler when required.
- Train Vistadome.; this cost is payable directly by the traveler when required.
- Accommodation before or after the tour unless it is expressly listed in the package.
- Personal travel insurance, including medical care, evacuation and trip interruption coverage.
- Tips for guides, drivers, cooks or support staff; gratuities are voluntary.
- Personal purchases, souvenirs and other expenses chosen by the traveler.
- Showers.; this cost is payable directly by the traveler when required.
- Expenses caused by closures, strikes or external emergencies.; this cost is payable directly by the traveler when required.
- Personal photography equipment.; this cost is payable directly by the traveler when required.
- Services not mentioned.; this cost is payable directly by the traveler when required.
Upgrades
- Service: Sleeping bag; Reference Price: US$ 15
- Service: Pair of canes; Reference Price: US$ 10
- Service: Inflatable mattress; Reference Price: US$ 15
- Service: Individual Shop; Reference Price: US$ 15
- Service: Additional personal carrier; Reference Price: Consult
- Service: Machu Picchu Mountain; Reference Price: US$ 60, subject to current rate
- Service: Huayna Picchu Mountain; Reference Price: US$ 60, subject to current rate
- Service: Improvement to train Vistadome; Reference Price: From US$ 50
- Service: Room in Aguas Calientes; Reference Price: Consult
- Service: Additional Guide to Mountain; Reference Price: Consult
- Service: Personalized Private Menu; Reference Price: Consult
- Service: Additional night in Aguas Calientes; Reference Price: Consult
- Service: Personal Portable Oxygen; Reference Price: Consult
Additional entry must be purchased in advance and depends on compatibility between schedules.
Discounts
- Students from 18 to 25 years old: discount of US$ 30. The college card must be physical and include the student’s name, photograph, university name and printed expiration date. A copy is required when booking to request the corresponding validation.
- Children under 18: discount of US$ 30. A copy of the passport must be sent before issuing the permit.
- Under 11 years old: discount of US$ 40. A legible copy of the passport is required.
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| Seating Layout | Seats facing each other with table | Leather seats, facing each other | Leather seats, spacious | Plush armchairs, elegant dining tables |
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| Entertainment | Ambient Andean Music | Cultural Dance & Fashion Show (Return) | Live Music & Cultural Show | Live Band in Bar Car |
| Special Features | - | - | Access to open-air balcony car | Includes bus, citadel ticket & guide |
| Estimated Price (One-way) | Desde $65 USD | Desde $85 USD | Desde $110 USD | Desde $490 USD |
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