DAY 1: CUSCO – KM 82 (PISKACUCHO) – PATALLACTA
Early morning pick up at 06:00 AM from your hotel in Cusco making our way towards Ollantaytambo where we will have a quick breakfast bite to get fuel up for our upcoming trek. We will then board the train to KM 82, the starting point of the Inca trail.
We will suit up, boots on and ready to begin the hike of 3 hours towards Patallacta (2,650m/8,747ft) the Incan site which constitute of Temples, Palaces and Terraces with a view of a snow capped peak of W´akay Willca. We will have a delicious lunch prepared by our trekker chef and settle in our first campsite. High tea will be served with snacks enjoying the beautiful ancient structure and its surrounding.
- Meals: Lunch – Afternoon Tea Time – Dinner
- Accommodation: Camping facilities with 4-person tents for 2 people
- Distance: 6kms / 3.7 miles
- Difficulty: Easy
DAY 2: PATALLACTA – WAYLLABAMBA – LLULLUCHAPAMPA
Rise and shine at 06:30 AM with hot breakfast served with coffee and tea ready to get energized for our second trek. We begin trekking through Kusichaca Valley, where we will enjoy different types of Flora and Fauna.
Upon reaching Wayllabamba, we will have lunch and a well deserved rest. After getting energized we will continue on a moderate pass making our 4 hours journey uphill towards Llullucha Valley, arriving at our second campsite, Llulluchapampa at (3,800m/12,537ft) High tea time and snacks will be served upon mesmerizing the natural vista around us.
- Meals: Breakfast – Lunch – Afternoon Tea Time – Dinner
- Accommodation: Camping facilities with 4-person tents for every 2 people
- Distance: 11kms / 6.8 miles
- Difficulty: Moderate
DAY 3: LLULLUCHAPAMPA – PAQAYMAYU – CH’AQICOCHA – PHUYUPATAMARCA
Sweat day! Day 3 will be the most challenging but yet one of the most beautiful trek you would not want to miss. We will have hot breakfast served with coffee, tea, getting fuel up before starting this amazing hike. We will begin our 2 hours trek uphill to the highest point towards Warmiwañusca Pass, also known as the Dead Woman pass at (4,215/13,907ft) After reaching the highest point we will get our well deserved rest enjoying the amazing landscape of the site.
We will continue our trek for another 2 more hours descending towards Pacaymayu where we will have lunch. we will then ascend to the Archaeological ruins of Runcurakay (3,800m/12,540ft) where you will be mesmerized by the breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and spectacular lakes. After this wonderful site, we will descend for another hour towards the archaeological ruins of Sayacmarca (3,977m/11,877 ft)
Finally! We shall hike for another 2 more hours through the Peruvian rainforest to our final destination of the day! Our campsite Phuyupatamarca (3,650m/12,047 ft) Where you are able to have a sneak preview of Machupicchu and Machupicchu mountain and its surrounding snow capped mountains.
- Meals: Breakfast – Lunch – Afternoon Tea Time – Dinner
- Accommodation: Camping facilities with 4-person tents for every 2 people
- Distance: 15kms / 9.3 miles
- Difficulty: Moderate to Challenging
DAY 4: PHUYUPATAMARCA – WIÑAY WAYNA – MACHU PICCHU – AGUAS CALIENTES
We are almost there! Waking up early for one last hot breakfast prepared by our trekker chef. We will begin our journey descending towards the archaeological site of Intipata (port of the sun) We will then make our way to Wiñay Wayna (1,650m/8,747ft) also known as Forever young having to explore the incredible ruins and our last lunch with the team.
After lunch, We will be making our way towards Sun Gate (2,720m/8,977 ft) Upon arriving we will notice the first spectacular view of Machu Picchu, from where the famous photos were taken. We will hike another hour reaching towards one of the wonders of the world, Machupicchu. After a sneak preview, we will be taking the shuttle bus down to Aguas Calientes. Where we will finally spend a night in a hotel with hot showers and comfortable beds
- Meals: Breakfast – Lunch – Dinner
- 2* Accommodation: Inti Punku Tambo, Wiracocha Inn Hotel
- Distance: 10kms / 6.2 miles
- Difficulty: Moderate
DAY 5: AGUAS CALIENTES – MACHU PICCHU – CUSCO
After an early breakfast at your hotel, we are ready to get an early bus at 5:30am up to Machu Picchu just in time to witness the sunrise. It is a truly mystical site out of history and not something you’ll want to miss! After enjoying the sunrise your guide will provide a guided tour of Machu Picchu, which takes around two hours. You will see many of the most important parts of Machu Picchu Citadel during your tour.
After the tour, those people that have booked in advance for the extra hike up Huayna Picchu will have time to hike it on their own. When they have had their fill of the incredible views of Machu Picchu, a bus back down to Aguas Calientes will be waiting. Upon arriving at Aguas Calientes lunch is waiting with numerous restaurants to choose from (lunch not included). Depending on your train departure time, there may be some time for shopping, or sightseeing.
The Expedition train will take you back to Ollantaytambo at 2:55pm or 3:20pm, following the spectacular Urubamba River. Close to Aguas Calientes, the canyon is narrow and the river has many beautiful sections of whitewater. Back at Ollantaytambo, your driver will meet you at the exit from the train station to take you back to your hotel in Cusco in our private van. You can expect to arrive at your hotel about 7:00pm.
- Meals included: Breakfast at your hotel
***IMPORTANT:
- On the 5-day Inca Trail, we will be doing the circuit #3 and there is no way to do another circuit unless you buy an additional entrance to Machu Picchu.
- You can upgrade to the Vistadome Train for the same times, 2:55pm or 3:20pm, 4:22pm, or 4:43pm. The cost is $57 USD.
- Early trains can be organized by requested and it has to be done by booking time.
- The Huayna Picchu Mountain Hike depends on availability and let us know about it at booking time.
WHAT IS INCLUDED FOR THE 5 DAY INCA TRAIL?
- Transfer from the airport to your hotel in CUSCO
- Pick up from your hotel for the Trek
- Private transport from Cusco to Piscacucho (starting of the trek)
- 7 kgs of your personal items extra clothes, sleeping bag to be carried by the porters, just carry your daypack
- 4 person Igloo tents (large and comfortable) for 2 people and thick foam mattresses
- English-speaking guide experienced in Trekking
- Meals as indicated in the itinerary (optional – vegetarian food with prior request)
- First-aid kit including emergency oxygen tank
- Porter to carry tents, food, cooking equipment
- Hot water for washing
- Boiled water to fill your bottles
- Expedition Tourist Train from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo and private transport to Cusco
- Admission Ticket to the Inca Trail
- Entrance to Machu Picchu
- Guided tour of Machu Picchu
- 3 bus tickets from Machu Picchu – Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu
- Dining and cooking tents with tables and chairs
- Chef & cooking equipment
WHAT IS NOT INCLUDED FOR THE 5 DAY INCA TRAIL?
- Huayna Picchu: $75 USD
- First breakfast and Last lunch: We will stop at Ollantaytambo for the first breakfast and have the last lunch at Aguas Calientes after the tour of Machu Picchu. (Not Included)
- VISTADOME Train to Cusco (an upgrade)
- Tips: for the ORANGE NATION crew, guide, cook and porters.
- Hotel Upgrades to 3*, 4* or 5* (see pricing for price)
Price
The 5-day Inca Trail to Machu Picchu is available on any date except in February when it is closed for maintenance as long as we have a minimum of 2 people and Inca Trail Permits are available.
| No. OF PEOPLE | PRICE |
| 2 to 8 people | $ 897 USD per person |
***This price includes an extra porter who will carry your belongings up to 7kgs, we provide you a duffel bag, where you can put your things.
***We provide large Eureka 4 man tents for every 2 trekkers. We operate group tours up to 12 people maximum
EXTRAS
- Sleeping Bag: $20 USD per person per trek (It will be clean and warm)
- Air Mattress: $20 USD per person per trek (Therm-a-rest mattresses)
- Walking Poles: $15 USD per pair per trek (Professional Poles that can be extended)
- Personal Tent: $30 USD – (Please request when you book your Trek)
- Additional Night in Aguas Calientes: From $60 USD (depending on availability)
- Vistadome Train Upgrade: $57 USD per person (For the return to Cusco)
- Huayna Picchu Mountain: $75 USD per person (Please request when you book your Trek)
- Single supplement: $35 USD per night (for solo travellers with single room)
- Upgrade Hotel – La Cabaña Hotel 3*: $50 USD per person
- Upgrade Hotel – Tierra Viva Hotel: 4* $90 USD per person
- Upgrade Hotel – El Mapi Hotel: 4* $120 USD per person
CHECK YOUR INCA TRAIL TREK AVAILABILITY BY CLICKING ON MONTH OF YOUR CHOICE!
IMPORTANT INFORMATION
Please read the following information to help answer any questions you may have about our Services.
ARRIVAL TO CUSCO
We will pick you up from the Cusco airport and take you to your hotel in Cusco. Please let us know your flight details at least 14 days before arrival. Our representative will be holding an orange sign reading ORANGE Nation outside the arrivals. You must exit the terminal to find our representative as they cannot enter. (Please let us know if your hotel is in the Sacred Valley so we can make the necessary arrangments).
THE BRIEFING
The Briefing will be the night before the trek at Garcilaso Street 210 , Office Nº:213 (2and Floor) in the la CASA DEL ABUELO shopping center.
CAN I STORE MY LUGGAGE AT YOUR OFFICE?
ABSOLUTELY! During the Classic 5-Day Inca Trail to Machu Picchu your main luggage can be stored at our office or at your hotel, both are free.
HOW TO BOOK THE INCA TRAIL TO MACHU PICCHU?
FIRST, to book your 5 Day Inca Trail, we need you to fill out our booking form by clicking on BOOK NOW on our homepage or click here – BOOK NOW.
We will need the following information (FROM EACH PARTICIPANT in your group). This information is necessary to purchase the Inca Trail permits, entrance and train tickets to Machu Picchu:
- Personal Information (your full name, exactly as on your passport)
- Gender
- Passport number
- D.OB. (dd / mm / yyyy)
- Nationality
- SECOND, we require a deposit of $211.00 USD per person , in order, to purchase your entrance to Machu Picchu and train ticket. You can make you deposit by clicking on the PAYPAL symbol on the top of our home page, or you can click on the PAYPAL symbols on our booking page.
WHAT ABOUT THE BALANCE?
It would be greatly appreciated if you pay in cash at our office (US dollars or Peruvian soles) here in Cusco. We have many ATMs within the historical center to withdraw money. You can also pay by PAYPAL online but you will have to pay a 5.5% service charge by PAYPAL. To pay your balance through PAYPAL, you need to log into your PAYPAL account using our email address of orangenationperu@gmail.com.
MAY I CHANGE THE DEPARTURE DATE AFTER THE TICKETS HAVE BEEN BOUGHT?
Unfortunately No. Once the tickets have been bought, the government does not allow any changes, so we cannot change any departure date after the tickets has been purchased. Tickets are also non transferable nor refundable. If you cancel your 5 Day Inca Trail, the deposit is lost!
DO I NEED MY ORIGINAL PASSPORT ON THE INCA TRAIL?
DEFINITELY! You MUST bring your original passport with the SAME passport number you sent us to book your entrance to Machu Picchu, train ticket, other entrances and reservations. They will check when you enter Machu Picchu and to board the train.
In case you are renewing your passport or changing your name, please send us a COPY of your old passport to secure your permit, and we can change it when we receive a COPY of your new passport for a fee of $25 USD per person. We must have a copy of your old and new passport to make the change. Before you change your passport keep a copy of your old one.
If you do not wish to pay this fee you will need to bring both passports to Peru with you. You can enter Peru with your new passport but you will need to show both passports, old and new to enter Machu Picchu or the train. If you do not have both you will not be allowed to enter into Machu Picchu or get on the train.
Remember to check your current passport to make sure it doesn’t expire within 6 months of your arrival to Peru!!! The Government of Peru is enforcing the existing law that requires all foreign travelers to have a passport valid for a minimum of six months past the time of entry into Peru. Peruvian authorities will deny entry into Peru for travelers not meeting this requirement.
WHAT IS THE WEATHER LIKE ON THE INCA TRAIL TO MACHU PICCHU?
The weather is very unpredictable and always changing in the Andes Mountains, so it is difficult to say with any certainty. We recommend that you be prepared for warm weather, possible rain showers (Orange Nation provides rain ponchos) and a warm jacket in case of cold. We also recommend that you dress in layers so you may take off or put on clothes as needed.
The climate in Cusco has temperatures between 10º – 20º C / 50º – 68º , with warm days and cold nights. The best time to hike the Inca Trail is between the months of April through October, when the weather is warm. During the months of June, July and August nights are very cold which is why Orange Nation rents good quality 4 season sleeping bags.
The rainy season is during the months of November through March, if you want to hike the Inca Trail during this season, bring warm clothes and be prepared for rain but there will be a beautiful landscape and colorful flowers.
The month of February, the Inca Trail is closed for safety, repairs and restoration.
The Average weather conditions on the Inca Trail:
- Dry Season: April – October
- Day Temperature: 20º – 25ºC / 68º – 77ºF – Night Temperature: 1º – 7ºC / 33º – 44º F
- Wet Season: November – March
- Day Temperature: 17ºC – 22ºC / 62º – 71ºF – Night Temperature: 4ºC – 7ºC / 39º – 44ºF
WHAT ABOUT ALTITUDE SICKNESS?
For some visitors, the first hours in Cusco can be summarized as: shortness of breath, a discomfort in the body, dizziness, headaches, stomachaches, even vomiting. As great connoisseurs of natural medicine, the Incas used coca leaves to counteract Soroche, Quechua for high-altitude sickness.
Don’t do anything other than rest
If you travel from Lima to Cusco, the effect can be immediate. This lack of oxygen, scientifically known as hypoxia, begins to manifest itself at 7,874 ft (2,399 m) above sea level. That’s why right after landing in Cusco, visitors can feel fatigued and have difficulty walking. Walking one block could feel like walking ten blocks carrying a backpack full of rocks. It is advisable to take it really easy on the first day and, if possible, rest the first few hours to help the body acclimatize to the altitude.
Stay hydrated
How do people feel after a night of drinking? Thirsty. That’s how you’ll feel when you arrive in Cusco. As already stated, the body dehydrates quickly in high altitudes. It is recommended you drink lots of water before and during your trip to Cusco. Also, avoid heavy meals since your stomach takes longer to digest food at high altitudes. A diet of low proteins and high carbs is advisable.
Discovering coca
No one knew better the effects of high altitude than indigenous peoples. Coca is the best natural medicine to combat altitude sickness. It was even considered sacred because of its curative powers and is still used in the same way now as it was in the time of the Incas. It contains iron, vitamins A, B1, B2 and calcium, among other nutrients. Coca makes it easier for your bloodstream to absorb oxygen, suppresses hunger, combats fatigue, headaches and can ease your stomach. If you do not feel like chewing leaves (which can be bitter, apart from numbing your mouth), you can try drinking coca tea, which is most commonly found in the lobby of hotels in Cusco.
HOW MANY PEOPLE ARE THERE PER GROUP?
The maximum group size is 8 people. Our groups are between 2-6 people. Orange Nation specializes in SMALL and PRIVATE groups and provides personalized service.
DUFFEL BAG AND SMALL BACK PACK
The evening before your trek, you will be given a SMALL DUFFEL BAG to pack your clothes for the next four days. Your weight allowance is up to 7kg/15lbs including sleeping bag, so 5kg/11lbs. Your team of porters will carry your duffel bag for you, together with the food and camping gear. It’s important to be aware that you will not have access to your items in the duffel bag until the end of each day, as the porters will always be ahead of the group. During the trek, you need a day backpack big enough to carry your personal belongings such as a warm jacket, a rain jacket, camera, sunscreen, snacks, water, etc. A 30 to 50 litre backpack is sufficient.
IS THE TREK DIFFICULT, DO I NEED TO BE FIT?
The 5 Day Inca Trail to Machu Picchu is a 42km (24.4 mile) hike through the Andes in the Cusco region. The maximum altitude on the trek is 4,217m/13,907ft. On the second day of the trek we climb two mountains. The Trail is a fairly difficult and you should be prepared and healthy prior to starting. You have to be relatively fit and exercise regularly.
In preparation: try walking 15kms in a day or go to the fitness club in the months leading up to the trek. It is also important to be well acclimatised to the altitude. Try to spend at least 2 days in Cusco (3,350m/11,047ft) prior to starting the trek.
TIPPING
If you’re happy with the services provided, a tip is appreciated. It means a lot to the staff, and their families, who will take care of you during the tour. It inspires better service and is a major part of the tourism industry across many ORANGE Nation destinations. Of course you are free to tip more or less what you want, depending how you feel about the quality of service and the length of your tour.
ARE YOU SUSTAINABLE?
We are a local sustainable & responsible tour operator which functions according to the ethical principles of tourism: protect the environment and benefit the indigenous communities respecting their culture and religion. We have trained all of our staff to know, understand and respect the local communities and the people living there.
PACKING LIST
WHAT YOU NEED TO BRING FOR THE 5 DAY INCA TRAIL?
- Original Passport: (it has to be the same you have used for booking your trek)
- Valid University card: (if you booked as a student)
- Good daypack: One with extra room for a box lunch (the smaller, the better)
- Drinking Water: 2-3L (Camelbaks work well)
- Boots: Comfortable broken in hiking boots or shoes (Boots with ankle support recommended).
- Sleeping Bag: 4 season bag (Can be rented from ORANGE NATION Travel)
- Headlamp or flashlight: Headlamp frees up hands (Back-up flashlight & batteries are recommended)
- Toilet paper: Make sure to bring your own.
WHAT TO PUT IN THE DUFFEL BAG
As a Direct Local Tour Operator, we provide you with a duffel bag at your briefing and INCLUDE an extra porter who will carry up to 7 kgs or 14 lbs including your 2.5kg sleeping bag, mattress and extra clothing.
- Necessary clothes for the 5-day Trek
- Thermals
- Warm clothes — it gets cold at night
- Gloves (preferably waterproof)
- Comfortable shoes for camp
- Quickdry towel. We provide small ones, you might prefer something larger
- Small bottle of soap: we provide warm water each day to wash
- Large plastic bags will be provided at the office — Please ask for them
- Sleeping bag: It should be rated at least -15ºC – This can be rented from us for $20 USD.
TOILETRIES
- Face moisturizer
- Hand Sanitizer
- Wet wipes
- Toothbrush and toothpaste
- Personal medications
WHAT TO PUT IN THE DAY BACKPACK FOR THE 5 DAY INCA TRAIL?
We highly recommend a small backpack 30 to 40 L for hiking throughout the day. A big backpack will not be allowed into Machu Picchu. The remainder of your belongings will be in your duffel bag at camp.
- Water: Please supply your own water until the first lunch spot, then we will provide you with cold boiled water at every meal time. Please bring your canteens
- Sun Hat
- Sunscreen
- Headlamp: essential
- Warm Hat
- Rain gear
- Fleece
- Snacks like chocolate bars, ice cream, cereal bars or any dry fruits
- Coca leaves
- Rain plastic poncho
- Gloves
- Camera
- Hand sanitizer
- Toilet paper and small plastic bag for waste
- Extra Money for Souvenirs, Drinks & Tips
Christian B
10/10 Amazing experience
If you’re thinking about which agency to use, look no further- Ray and Jimmy went well above and beyond and made this a memorable, safe, fun, and professional experience.
Ray is the most knowledgeable guide I’ve ever had in any country for any excursion - during both the Short Inka Trail and the actual tour of Machu Picchu, Ray’s expertise shined through in his ability to give us a detailed background on every aspect of the history, climate, nature, flora, animals.. anything!
Likewise, Ray and Jimmy were truly the friendliest, kindest hosts that I could have imagined our group having.
Thank you both so much and I will definitely book with you again if (when) I come back!
Matt A
Awesome experience!!
Did the 2 day Inca trail with Ray and Jimmy they were great and knowledgeable. Ray not only guided us along trail to Machu Picchu but also was an excellent photographer and taught us the history. It was a group of 10 and we had a great time. Even everything going on in Peru, we always felt in good hands.
Rius
Short Inca Trial (2-Day)
This tour was the perfect experience for our (group of 10) short trip to Peru. The trail was sometimes challenging, but the views and history made it all worth it. Ray and Jimmy were our guides and imparted sooo much knowledge about the history of Peru, Inca, and beyond. I would definitely recommend!