CLASSIC INCA TRAIL & SACRED VALLEY TOUR 5 DAYS
From Hotel to Hotel
Price: US$ 850
- Group Service
- With extra porter 7kls.
- All-inclusve Tour
- Small-group Tours
- Guaranteed Departures
We highly recommended to reserve in advance doe that the Trekking Permits are limited.
Explore Ancient Architecture, Culture and Natural Beauty on a 5-Day Journey Through the Sacred Valley & Classic Inca Trail!
Classic Inca Trail.- Embark on a 5-day journey through the Sacred Valley and the Classic Inca Trail. This epic adventure begins with a visit to the bustling Pisac Market, offering an abundance of traditional Andean crafts and fare. Explore the ancient Ollantaytambo ruins before setting off on the iconic Inca Trail. Interspersed along the trail are myriad archaeological sites, offering glimpses into the Inca civilization’s rich history. The culmination of this journey is the awe-inspiring Machu Picchu, a testament to Incan architectural ingenuity, nestled amid the verdant Peruvian Andes. This 5-day excursion provides a unique blend of cultural immersion and natural beauty, promising an unforgettable experience.
The Sacred Valley and the Classic Inca Trail are two of the most iconic destinations in Peru. The region is known for its stunning landscapes, rich history, and vibrant culture. This 5-day journey allows visitors to fully immerse themselves in the beauty and heritage of this fascinating land.
The trip begins with a visit to the Pisac Market, a bustling market town where visitors can find a variety of traditional Andean crafts and local delicacies. It’s the perfect place to get a taste of the vibrant colors and flavors that define Peruvian culture.
Next, travelers will explore the ancient ruins of Ollantaytambo, one of the last remaining Inca towns. This impressive archaeological site offers a glimpse into the advanced engineering and construction techniques of the Inca civilization.
But the real highlight of this journey is the Classic Inca Trail. This iconic trek takes visitors on a 4-day journey through some of the most breathtaking landscapes in South America. Along the way, hikers will pass by numerous archaeological sites and experience stunning views of snow-capped mountains, lush valleys, and winding rivers.
The trail culminates at Machu Picchu, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. This ancient Inca citadel is perched on a mountain ridge overlooking the Sacred Valley, offering visitors an unrivaled view of the surrounding landscape.
Important Details About 5-Day Classic Inca Trail
HIGHLIGHTS
- Experience Guided Sacred Valley Tour.
- Visit the local market of Pisaq.
- Explore the Inca ruins of Pisaq and Ollantaytambo
- Visit the picturesque town of Ollantaytambo, known as the living Inca town
- Hike the 45km/26mls of the Classic Inca trail to Machu Picchu
- Explore the iconic Inca site of Machu Picchu perched on the top of the mountain
Overview
Classic Inca Trail Facts
- Distance: 45 Km / 26 Miles
- Duration: 5 Days
- When to go: The best time to visit is April through October, it’s the busy season (especially June to August), but it’s also the dry season.
- Altitude: From 2680m/8817ft to 4200m/13818ft
- Difficulty: The trek is rated from moderate to challenge due to the altitud, any reasonably fit person should be able to cover the route (entire trek is practically 3 full days ( 6-8 hrs walk) on Day 4 only 2-3 hrs to reach Machu Picchu).
- Temperatures: From minus 4ºC to 28ºC
- Note: that the Inca Trail is closed February.
- BOOK EARLY… to avoid disappointment – Trek Permits are limited.
Short Itinerary
Day 1: Sacred Valley Tour.
– Visit “Awanakancha” and explore Pisac Inca ruins.
– Lunch break at Urubamba town.
– Explore Ollantaytambo ruins.
Day 2: Trekking to Ayapata Camp.
– Depart from Ollantaytambo to Pisqhakucho (km 82) and start the hike.
– Trek for 7-8 hours to Ayapata camp.
Day 3: Trekking to Chakiccocha Camp.
– Hike over the two passes, including the famous “Warmiwañusqha” or Dead Woman pass.
– Reach Chakiccocha camp.
Day 4: Trekking to Wiñaywayna Camp.
– Trek through cloud forest to Phuyupatamarka.
– Continue for 3 hours to the Wiñay Wayna camp at 2,650m.
Day 5: Machu Picchu Exploration and Return to Cusco.
– Start early to reach the Sun Gate before sunrise.
– Explore the breathtaking ruins of Machu Picchu.
– Descend to Machu Picchu for a guided tour and free time.
– Take the bus to Aguas Calientes for lunch and relaxation.
– Return to Cusco in the afternoon by train.
Itinerary
DETAILED ITINERARY ABOUT 5-DAY CLASSIC INCA TRAIL
Day 1: CUSCO – SACRED VALLEY TOUR – OLLANTAYTAMBO:
Join us on an unforgettable adventure on the Classic Inca Trail & Sacred Valley Tour. Our journey begins with a 7:30 am pick-up from your hotel in Cusco. Immerse yourself in the rich local culture as we visit “Awanacancha” and marvel at llamas, alpacas, vicuñas, guanacos, and surys. Witness the traditional art of weaving practiced by skilled local women.
Next, we’ll head to the vibrant Pisac market before embarking on a 20-minute drive up the mountain to explore the awe-inspiring Inca ruins, including magnificent agricultural terraces. After this, we’ll return to the market and embark on a picturesque 45-minute drive through the sacred valley to the charming town of Urubamba. Here, savor the flavors of the local cuisine in one of the authentic restaurants.
After a delightful lunch, our journey continues with a scenic half-hour bus ride to the enchanting town of Ollantaytambo. Explore the impressive Inca ruins perched atop their majestic terraces, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the sacred valley. Witness the remarkable engineering skills of the Incas as you marvel at the massive stones transported from across the river. Dive into history as we stroll through the town’s original Inca streets and visit the fascinating “Kanchas” – authentic Inca residences.
Conclude your day in this charming town and take advantage of the opportunity to gather essential items for the Classic Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, such as raingear, snacks, water, and more. Spend a restful night in Ollantaytambo, rejuvenating for the upcoming adventure that awaits you.
Private Vehicle:
- Cusco – Ollantaytambo Full Day – 95km approx.
- Make stops along the way as you pass through this gorgeous valley – the elevation descends the whole way (From 3,400m to 2,800m).
Accommodation:
- Hotel Tunupa Lodge (or similar).
Day 2: OLLANTAYTAMBO – KM 82 / “PISKACUCHO” – AYAPATA CAMP:
Get ready for an incredible trekking adventure on Day 2! After enjoying a delicious breakfast at 7:00AM in the hotel, we will depart by 7:30AM. Make sure to gather all your belongings, as we will travel by bus for an hour to reach “Piskacucho” or KM 82, our starting point. There, we will meet our dedicated porters who will carry our gear throughout the trek.
Before we embark on the hike, our knowledgeable trekking guide will provide valuable recommendations. We’ll then make our way towards the control point, passports in hand, where we will present our permits to enter the Classic Inca Trail. Crossing a suspension footbridge over the Urubamba River, we’ll begin our trek with a gentle climb for 10 minutes, followed by undulating trails.
Over the next three hours, we’ll meander along relatively level terrain, accompanied by breathtaking views of the snow-capped mountain “La Veronica” (5,750m / 18,864ft) and the serenity of the river. We’ll traverse a forest filled with towering cacti and native flora at the “Miskay” zone and ascend gradually to “Willkaraccay,” providing us with a striking view of the Inca town of “Llactapata” across the “Cusichaca” River.
Continuing our journey from Llactapata, we’ll encounter an enchanting trail adorned with vibrant native flowers and bromeliads thriving among boulders, offering captivating vistas of the surrounding mountains. Along the “Cusichaca” valley/river, we’ll trek until we reach Huayllabamba (3,000m / 9,842ft). From there, we’ll embark on a 1-hour and 30-minute climb to our destination, Ayapata camp (3,300m / 10,826ft).
Trekking Facts:
- Maximum Altitude: 3,300 masl – the camp
- Minimum Altitude: 2,680 masl – the beginning point
- Distance Travelled: 13 km approx.
- Approximate Walking Time: 8 -9 hours
- Meals: Breakfast – Lunch – Dinner
- Accommodation: Camping
Day 3: AYAPATA – DEAD WOMAN`S PASS (4,200M / 13779FT) – CHAKICCOCHA CAMP:
On Day 3 of the tour, we will embark from Ayapata camp around 7:00 am. Brace yourself for a challenging day, but the breathtaking views of valleys and snow-covered peaks make it worthwhile. As we trek towards the highest point at 4,200m / 13779ft, remember to walk at a slow pace. It takes about 1:30 hours to reach the “Llulluchayoc” area, where you can rest, grab a drink, and use the facilities.
From “Llulluchac” or “Llulluchapampa,” we’ll continue ascending for two more hours, climbing numerous newly laid steps to conserve the mountain. Feel free to set your own pace and take breaks as needed.
Once we reach the top, there will be ample time to rest and capture stunning photos before our descent. The 2:30-hour descent brings us through picturesque Inca steps, with the Inca Trail laid before us in the afternoon. We’ll arrive at the “Paqhaymayu” River/Valley (3600m / 11811ft), where lunch will be served, and you can refill your water bottle.
After lunch, we’ll ascend for an hour towards the ruins of “Runcuracay,” offering excellent views of the Pacaymayu valley/river, the snow-capped “San Gabriel” mountain, and the first pass. Our knowledgeable trekking guide will provide a guided tour at this point. Following that, we’ll continue climbing for another hour to reach the second pass (4,000m / 13123ft).
From the second pass onward, the Inca Trail mostly descends or gently undulates until we arrive at the impressive ruins of “Sayacmarca” (approximately 1 hour). After exploring for 30 minutes, we’ll keep walking for 20 minutes to reach the “Chakicocha” camp (3600m / 11811ft).
Trekking Facts:
- Maximum Altitude: 4,200 masl – The first Pass
- Minimum Altitude: 3,000 masl – The camp
- Distance Travelled: 17 km approx
- Approximate Walking Time: 8-9 hours
- Meals: Breakfast Lunch Dinner
- Accommodation: Camping
Day 4: CHAKICCOCHA – WIÑAYWAYNA CAMP:
Today is an easy but beautiful day on the tour. We’ll be walking for 5-6 hours. After breakfast, we’ll leave the camp and follow the original Inca Trail. Along the way, we’ll witness great biodiversity. About two hours later, we’ll arrive at the Inca ruins of “Phuyupatamarka” (3600m/11811ft), which offers excellent views of the Urubamba River. From the valley below, we catch our first glimpse of Machu Picchu Mountain, although the site itself remains hidden.
From “Phuyupatamarka,” we embark on a 3-hour hike up a staircase that leads to our final camp near “Wiñay Wayna” (Forever Young). Wiñay Wayna is the most spectacular Inca site on the tour after Machu Picchu and the most popular campsite due to its proximity to Machu Picchu. As we descend, we visit 2 Inca ruins, “Phuyupatamarka” (city in the clouds) and “Intipata” (terraces of the sun). We reach our camp at around 1:00 p.m. for lunch.
Once at the camp, you’ll have time to relax and prepare for your last day at Machu Picchu. Around 4:30 p.m., your guide will provide a brief orientation, and you’ll visit the Inca ruins of “Wiñay Wayna” for an hour. The ruins are located just 10 minutes from the camp. Your guide will explain the significance of the site and consolidate all the information shared during the hike. This will ensure you are well-prepared for your visit to Machu Picchu the following day.
As part of the Inca Trail tradition, there is an evening ceremony where the team is introduced to the tourists once again. This is an opportunity to express gratitude for the excellent work they have done. If you wish to provide any feedback or advice, you can do so at this time. It is recommended to go to bed at a reasonable hour in order to wake up early and reach Machu Picchu at sunrise, in the hope of experiencing a beautiful sunrise over the ruins of Machu Picchu.
Trekking Facts:
- Maximum Altitude: 3,600 masl
- Minimum Altitude: 2,600 masl the Wiñayhauyna camp
- Distance Travelled: 13 Km approx.
- Approximate Walking Time: 5 – 6 hours
- Meals: Breakfast Lunch Dinner
- Accommodation: Camping
Day 5: WIÑAYWAYNA- MACHUPICCHU- AGUAS CALIENTES – CUSCO
On day 5, we will embark on an exciting journey starting with breakfast at 4:30 am. At 5:30 am, we will head to the checkpoint, bid farewell to our team, and proceed towards Sun Gate (Inti Punku) to witness breathtaking views of the majestic Machu Picchu. By 6:30 am, we will reach Inti Punku and it will only take an hour to walk to the lost city of the Incas.
As we approach Machu Picchu, the view becomes even more captivating. Around 7:40 am, we will reach the final checkpoint and enter Machu Picchu to begin our 2-3-hour private guided tour. After the tour, you’ll receive bus tickets for the town of Aguas Calientes, where you’ll have free time to explore or consider climbing Huaynapicchu, if pre-arranged.
If you choose, your guide will meet you in Aguas Calientes for a last lunch at a local restaurant (optional and not included). During lunch, your guide will provide train tickets, so be sure to collect them before leaving Machu Picchu. Unless you have upgraded, we will book the Expedition class train departing Aguas Calientes at 3:20 p.m. or 4:22 p.m. Please arrive on the platform at least 30 minutes in advance. The journey will last approximately 2 hours and take you to Ollantaytambo, where our driver will meet you and drive you back to Cusco.
Trekking Facts:
- Maximum Altitude: 2,750 masl – Inti Punku
- Minimum Altitude: 2,400 masl – Machu Picchu
- Distance Travelled: 5 Km approx.
- Approximate Walking Time: 2 hours
- Accommodation: Not Included,
- Meals: Breakfast
Inclusions
INCLUSIONS FOR CLASSIC INCA TRAIL
For this tour are included the following items:
- Pre-trek briefing; this will be the night before the trekking date.
- TRANSPORTATION.- Tourist bus for Sacred Valley Tour on day 1; Transfer from Ollantaytambo to Piscakucho (km 82), starting point of the Classic Inca Trail.- Bus down from Machu Picchu to Aguas Calientes.- Tourist train Expeditions class from Machu Picchu to Ollantaytambo.- Transfer from Ollantaytambo train station to Cusco.
- CAMPING EQUIPMENT.- We provide four-people capacity tent for two persons, brand new four season tents, Therm-a-rest, dinning room tent, kitchen tent, toiled tent, seats, tables, tent for Guides and porters, kitchen gears, bag packs for porters, warm clothes for porters and Porter’s life insurance.
- ACCOMMODATIONS: Hotel based on double occupancy: 1 night hotel in Ollantaytambo, If you would like a private room there is an additional cost of US$30.00 per night.- 3 nights camping tents.
- MEALS.- 3 breakfast.- 3 hot lunches. 3 hot dinners. Delicious meals prepared by professional chef; food includes pancakes, omelets, soups, fresh fruit, avocado, pasta, chicken, fish, meat, rice, all rich in carbohydrates and suitable for trekking, hot drinks including coca leaf tea which is excellent for the altitude. Teatime everyday (tea, coffee, biscuits, popcorn), we offer vegetarian option, We provide available boil water each mourning for your water bottles.
- INCA TRAIL PERMITS
- ENTRACE FEES.– For the Sacred valley, Inca Trail and Machu Picchu.
- GUIDE.- English speaking professional guides, 2 guides over 8 people.
- COOKS.- Professional chef and Chef assistants,
- GENERAL PORTERS.- For camping equipment, food and kitchen gears.
- EXTRA PORTERS: To carry your duffle bag from camp to camp (7kls).
- OTHERS.- Hot water every morning and evening before and after the trek for washing purposes; First aid kit and emergency oxygen bottle.
Not Included in the Price for Classic Inca Trail
For This tour aren’t included the following items
- BREAKFAST.- Breakfast on the first morning; Some hotels offer early morning breakfast. If not, we stop at Ollantaytambo town on the way to the starting point of the trek where you can have breakfast and buy some items that you need for the trek.
- MEALS.- Lunch on the firts day (In Urubamba) and the last day in Aguas Calientes town, you must consider a budget from US$15.00 to US$25.00
Optional extras for Classic Inca Trail
- Sleeping bag (to hire for 4 Days US$ 25).
- Shared porter for 7 Kg US$ 70.00.
- A pair of Trekking poles US$10 for entire trek.
- Tips for your staff, guides, cooks, porters etc. ( US$30-US$40 approx ).
Packing List
FOR 5-DAY CLASSIC INCA TRAIL WE RECOMMENDED THAT YOU BRING:
You must bring with you:
- Your original passport and original ISIC student card if applicable
- a small Backpack; Sleeping bag -8º C
- Hiking boots; Trekking poles
- Warm clothes : layers for variable temperature especially at night
- Thermals : Gloves / scarf : wool socks / woolen hat for cold night
- T-shirts and trekking pants that zipoff to short pants for a comfortable day walks
- Flash light : head torch
- Camera and extra batteries
- Sunprotection – sunscreen – sun hat and sunglasses
- Personal medical kit / insect repellen
- Rain Gear: poncho/ a good rain jacket
- Toiletries / toilet paper / small towel
- 2 litre water bottle : disposable water bottles are not permited in Machu Picchu site.
- Extra money for drinks & tips, souvenirs etc ( soles or dollars ); Bathing clothes for the hot springs.
Price Info
Price of the tour
Price US$ 850.00 p/person.
(Based on Double / Triple accommodation).
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PRIVATE TOUR Daily Departures:
- 2 person (minimum) US$ 950.00 p/person.
- 3-4 person 920.00 p/person.
- 5-9 person 890.00 p/person.
- * Guided tour with expert english speaking guides
Essential Info
Essential Information About 5-day Classic Inca Trail
LOCATION.
Photo Gallery About 5-Day Classic Inca Trail
Additional information About 5-Day Classic Inca Trail
Is This Trek for me?
IS THIS TOUR FOR ME?
- Travel Style: Active
- Hiking, trekking, made for outdoor types.
- Service Level: Standard
- Comfortable tourist-class accommodations with character; mix of public and private transport
- Physical Rating: Demanding
- Some high-altitude hikes or more strenuous activities, but accessible to most healthy travellers
- Trip Type: Small Group
- Small group experience; Max 12, Avg 8
- Age requirement: 12+
- All travellers under age 18 must be accompanied by an adult.
About Payment
PAYMENT
we require a non-refundable trek deposit of US$250 per person. The deposit can be sent by a WESTERN UNION or to our BANK ACCOUNT money transfer.
This is the fastest and most secure form of payment in Peru. The money transfer should be in the name of SUNRISE PERU TREK TOUR OPERATOR E.I.R.L. Once you arrive in Cusco you must pay the remaining balance in cash prior to beginning your tour. We accept both US Dollars and Peruvian Soles (local currency).
A private Trek Service
PRIVATE DEPARTURES
Why not arrange your own tour departure? For groups of 2 or more, we can offer tailor-made private departures for any of our published tours enabling friends, families or organizations to enjoy our style of travel at special rates. Tailored itineraries and departure dates can be chosen to suit your needs. (Subject to seasonal/operational restrictions).
About Cancellation
CANCELLATION:
- Due to the strict regulations of the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, once your reservation is made, you will not be able to cancel the space you have reserved. You also cannot change the name or the date of the reservation. If you are unable to come on the date you booked, we cannot refund you.
- The deposit is non-refundable. We cannot refund the entrance fee to the Inca Trail since the permits are non-refundable and SUNRISE PERU TREK buys the tickets to Machu Picchu when you reserve your place.
- In the exceptional case that you decide to return once the tour has started, you will have to pay additional expenses such as food and transportation. You can join the group at Machu Picchu for the walking tour and use all the services afterwards.