Luxury Inca Trail 5 Days
This is the Luxury 5 Day Inca Trail, not simply as trekking, but as a bespoke, private experience. We deliberately formulate this to be nothing like a rushed, congested route. Our comprehensive itinerary obligates the experience pace to your own comfort level and cultural experience, leaving you space for uninterrupted time to connect, contemplate the legacy of the Andes.
We set the standard of comfort along the trail. Expect a level of private service you cannot find anywherelse, overseen by our team of professionally trained team. Each evening, you’ll retreat back to your own signature Luxury campsites, where we have invested the time to build a special location just for our guests.
We believe in providing an exceptional standard of cuisine! Expect our gourmet style of dining, influenced by local cuisine, throughout your journey. In many ways, this is the ultimate Luxury route to Machu Picchu. This is the future of adventure.
Important: The Luxury Inca Trail follows the official Classic Inca Trail route and requires a government-issued trekking permit. Daily permits are limited throughout the year and often sell out several months in advance, particularly during the high season. We recommend reserving your tour as early as possible to secure your preferred departure date.
The Luxury 5 Day Inca Trail A Private Passage to Machu Picchu
Follow the legendary footsteps of the Incas in ultimate comfort on this Luxury Inca Trail 5 Days experience. Designed for discerning travelers, this journey blends breathtaking scenery, ancient history, and elevated service luxury camping, gourmet cuisine, and handpicked accommodations offering an unforgettable way to reach Machu Picchu.
The Luxury Inca Trail follows the same historical route to Machu Picchu as the classic version. However, the journey will feel very different because of the comfortable hotels, the personalized level of service, and the high-end amenities that you will have access to. Each night will provide you with a much-needed opportunity to relax and recover, while at the same time allowing you to enjoy every second of your trip; from your first step at Km 82 to the moment you arrive at the Sun Gate which has stunning views of Machu Picchu!
Top Highlights of the 5 Day Luxury Inca Trail
- Follow the legendary Inca Trail to Machu Picchu at a more comfortable pace, with extra time to enjoy the landscapes, archaeological sites, and quiet moments along the route.
- Visit important Inca sites such as Runkurakay, Sayacmarca, Phuyupatamarca, Intipata, and Wiñay Wayna, while your guide explains how each place connected the mountains, valleys, and sacred paths of the Inca world.
- Experience one of the most scenic hiking routes in Peru, passing cloud forest, high mountain passes, stone stairways, native orchids, birds, and changing Andean landscapes.
- Enjoy freshly prepared meals during the trek, with a menu designed to keep you energized throughout each day of hiking.
- Rest in comfortable campsites with quality camping equipment, warm service, and peaceful nights surrounded by the Andes.
- Reach Machu Picchu through the Sun Gate, one of the most memorable ways to see the citadel for the first time after several days on the trail.
- Spend a relaxing night in Aguas Calientes, giving you time to rest before returning to Machu Picchu the next day.
- Visit Machu Picchu twice, first from the Inca Trail arrival route and then with a second guided tour for a deeper look at the ancient citadel.
Quick Itinerary Luxury Inca Trail Trek 5 Days
Your adventure begins at Km 82, where you’ll start following the original Inca Trail through the Urubamba Valley. Visit Llactapata before arriving at your first luxury camp, where comfortable accommodations and gourmet dining await.
Day 1 Cusco, Km 82, Patallacta and Hatunchaca
Begin with a private transfer to Km 82, walk along the Urubamba River, visit Patallacta, and settle into your first luxury campsite in Hatunchaca.
Day 2 Dead Woman’s Pass and Pacaymayu
Ascend at a steady pace to Dead Woman’s Pass, the highest point of the trek, then descend to Pacaymayu for a comfortable night at camp.
Day 3 Runkurakay, Sayacmarca and Phuyupatamarca
Explore remarkable Inca sites, mountain views, and cloud forest scenery before reaching the peaceful campsite at Phuyupatamarca.
Day 4 Wiñay Wayna, Sun Gate and Aguas Calientes
Walk through cloud forest and Inca terraces, visit Wiñay Wayna, reach the Sun Gate for your first view of Machu Picchu, and spend the night in Aguas Calientes.
Day 5 Machu Picchu and Return to Cusco
Enjoy an early guided visit to Machu Picchu, then return to Cusco by panoramic train after lunch near the citadel.
Why book a luxury tour with Uros Expeditions?
The Luxury Inca Trail 5 Days has been carefully created for travelers who want to experience the legendary route to Machu Picchu with a level of comfort rarely available on the trail. Beyond securing permits and organizing logistics, our team focuses on every detail that makes the journey more enjoyable, from spacious luxury camps and exceptional cuisine to personalized service from beginning to end. The additional day on the trail allows for a more relaxed pace, giving you extra time to enjoy the scenery, explore the archaeological sites, and fully appreciate one of the world’s most iconic hiking routes without feeling rushed.
- Official Inca Trail permits and Machu Picchu entrance tickets included.
- Five-day itinerary designed for a slower, more comfortable hiking experience.
- Exclusive glamping camps with spacious walk-in tents.
- Real beds with premium mattresses, pillows, and quality linens.
- Private bathroom facilities with hot showers every evening.
- Professional private chef preparing fresh gourmet meals throughout the trek.
- Vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and other dietary requirements accommodated at no additional cost.
- Daily massage therapy to help reduce muscle fatigue and improve recovery.
- Experienced bilingual guides with extensive knowledge of Inca history and Andean culture.
- Dedicated porter team carrying camping equipment and personal duffel bags.
- Elegant dining tent with tables, chairs, and complete dining service.
- Private transportation from Cusco to the trailhead.
- Bus ticket from Machu Picchu to Aguas Calientes included.
- Return aboard the panoramic Vistadome Train with scenic views of the Sacred Valley.
- Private transfer from the train station back to your hotel in Cusco.
- Emergency oxygen, comprehensive first aid equipment, satellite communication, and safety protocols throughout the expedition.
Luxury Inca Trail 5 Days itinerary
Day 1: Cusco, km 82, Wayllabamba, Patacallcta and Hatunchaca
After an early breakfast, your private guide will pick you up at 5:00 am from your hotel in Cusco. You’ll drive through the picturesque Sacred Valley until reaching Km 82, the official starting point of the Inca Trail. Here, you’ll meet your dedicated trekking team and begin your adventure after passing the checkpoint. The trail begins gently with a two-hour walk along the Urubamba River, leading to the impressive archaeological site of Patallacta, a vast Inca complex set against stunning natural backdrops.
Following a gourmet lunch served in a peaceful and secluded spot, you’ll continue your hike for another two hours through scenic Andean landscapes until reaching your first luxury campsite in Hatunchaca Village (3000 m / 9843 ft). Upon arrival, your tent will be ready, along with a warm drink and light snack. You’ll have time to relax, enjoy a soothing massage, and admire the surrounding mountains before a freshly prepared dinner is served under the stars.
- Campsite Altitude: 9843 ft
- Highest Altitude: 9843 ft
- Duration: 6 hours
- Distance: 7.5 miles
- Meals: Lunch, tea time, dinner
- Accommodation: Luxury camping with massage and drinks
- Difficulty: Easy to moderate
Day 2: Hatunchaca, Dead Woman’s Pass and Pacaymayu
Your morning begins with a steaming cup of coffee or coca tea delivered to your tent as the sun rises over the Andes. After a hearty breakfast, you’ll begin the most demanding yet rewarding day of the trek. The morning involves a steady 4-hour ascent through lush cloud forest to Llulluchapampa (3800m / 12,467ft), where a gourmet lunch awaits with sweeping views of the valley below.
Re-energized, you’ll continue climbing for another 2 hours to reach Warmiwañuska, or Dead Woman’s Pass (4215m / 13,829ft)—the highest point of the Inca Trail. At the summit, you’ll have time to rest and take in the dramatic mountain scenery while your guide performs a traditional offering to the Apus, the sacred mountain spirits. From here, begin a gentle 2-hour descent into the Pacaymayu Valley, where your luxury campsite is ready with refreshments, a relaxing massage, and a well-deserved dinner.
- Campsite Altitude: 11,811ft
- Highest Altitude: 13,829ft
- Distance: 6.2 miles
- Duration: 8 hours
- Meals: Breakfast, lunch, tea time, dinner
- Accommodation: Luxury camping with massage and drinks
- Difficulty: Moderate to difficult
Day 3: Pacaymayu – Runkurakay – Phuyupatamarca
After a nourishing breakfast, begin a scenic ascent toward the second mountain pass. The trail winds gently for 2 hours through lush vegetation until reaching Runkurakay, a circular Inca lookout nestled in the misty cloud forest. As you continue, your guide will lead you through Sayacmarca, a majestic archaeological site perched on a ridge with panoramic views of the valley.
Soon after, arrive at Chaquicocha (3600m / 11,811ft), where a chef-prepared lunch awaits amid serene mountain surroundings. The afternoon portion is a breathtaking two-hour trek along original Inca stone paths carved into the hillside, surrounded by orchids and moss-draped trees.
Your luxury campsite at Phuyupatamarca—“The City Above the Clouds”—sits at a dramatic viewpoint overlooking the Urubamba River, Intipata terraces, and the distant peaks around Machu Picchu. As night falls, relax with a warm drink, witness an unforgettable sunset, and gaze at the constellations under crystal-clear skies.
- Campsite Altitude: 11,811ft
- Highest Altitude: 13,123ft
- Distance: 8 miles
- Duration: 9 hours
- Meals: Breakfast, lunch, tea time, dinner
- Accommodation: Luxury camping with massage and drinks
Day 4: Phuyupatamarca, Intipata and Machu Picchu Pueblo
Today’s journey is a gentle descent through cloud forests, orchids, and waterfalls—a well-deserved reward after the trek’s more demanding sections. After breakfast, explore Phuyupatamarca, the “City Above the Clouds,” and descend through ancient stairways carved into the mountainside toward Intipata, where sweeping agricultural terraces reveal the genius of Inca engineering. Take time to soak in the tranquility and views of the Urubamba River far below.
By late morning, arrive at Wiñaywayna, one of the most beautiful archaeological sites on the Inca Trail. Enjoy a gourmet lunch and some time to rest, reflect, and explore with your guide before continuing your final stretch to Intipunku (the Sun Gate). From here, the first magical glimpse of Machu Picchu appears a view that will stay with you forever.
Descend to the citadel just as most visitors are leaving, allowing for a quiet, unforgettable moment with this ancient wonder. Afterward, a bus will take you down to Aguas Calientes, where a warm shower, fine dinner, and a comfortable stay at a 4 star hotel await.
- Campsite Altitude: 6,562 ft
- Highest Altitude: 11,811 ft
- Distance: 6 miles
- Duration: 6 hours
- Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
- Accommodation: 4 star hotel (Tierra Viva or similar)
- Difficulty: Moderate
Day 5: Machu Picchu and Return to Cusco
Your final day begins before sunrise, as we take one of the first buses up to Machu Picchu, ensuring a privileged early entry to witness the first light over the citadel—an unforgettable moment if the sky is clear. Your expert guide will lead a detailed 3 to 4-hour exploration, revealing the spiritual, architectural, and historical marvels of the Lost City of the Incas.
After the guided visit, enjoy free time to wander at your own pace or hike Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain (advance permits required). At midday, a refined lunch awaits you at Tinkuy Restaurant, located near the site. Later, board the Exclusive Panoramic Vistadome train for a comfortable and scenic ride back to Cusco, concluding your luxury Inca Trail journey with style and comfort.
- Duration: 2–3 hours at Machu Picchu
- Meals: Breakfast (hotel), Lunch (Machu Picchu)
- Difficulty: Easy
What’s Included in Your Luxury Inca Trail Experience
This Luxury Inca Trail service is designed for travelers who want the classic route to Machu Picchu with more comfort, privacy, and careful support from start to finish. Every detail is arranged before the trek begins, so you can focus on the trail, the scenery, and the experience itself.
Included
- Private pre trek briefing at your hotel in Cusco the evening before departure.
- Premium private transfers for hotel pick ups and drop offs in Cusco.
- Professional private guide dedicated exclusively to your group.
- Experienced trekking team, including chefs and porters.
- Duffle bag provided for your personal belongings, carried by the porter team up to 15 kg per person.
- Three nights of luxury camping in private campsites along the Inca Trail.
- Spacious walk in tents with airbeds, camping cots, and full-size bedding.
- Private toilet tents and hot showers at the campsites.
- One night in a handpicked 4-star hotel in Aguas Calientes, such as Tierra Viva or similar.
- All meals during the trek, prepared by a private chef with fresh local ingredients.
- Vegetarian, vegan, gluten free, and lactose-free meals available upon request.
- Entrance ticket to the Inca Trail.
- Entrance ticket to Machu Picchu Citadel.
- Final lunch at Tinkuy Restaurant near Machu Picchu.
- Return train to Cusco area in Vistadome or similar panoramic service.
- All scheduled transfers connected with the trek and return journey.
Not Included
- Breakfast on the first day.
- Dinner on the final day.
- Travel insurance.
- Tips for guides, chefs, porters, and trekking staff.
- Personal expenses, extra drinks, alcoholic beverages, or services not mentioned in the itinerary.
- Huayna Picchu Mountain or Machu Picchu Mountain permits, unless requested and confirmed in advance.
- Extra hotel nights in Cusco or Aguas Calientes before or after the tour.
Important to know before booking:
- Only available on a private tour
- 4 star hotel included (Based on twin room occupied for 2 people)
- Veg, Vegan, GF, and LF meals on request
Important Recommendations Before Your Trek
- Book your Inca Trail permit early, especially for travel between May and September.
- Arrive in Cusco 2 to 3 days before the trek to adjust to the altitude.
- Use the same passport for booking and bring the original passport during the trek.
- Let us know in advance about allergies, medical conditions, or special diets.
- Break in your hiking boots before the trip to avoid discomfort on the trail.
- Bring layered clothing, a rain jacket, sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat.
- Carry only daily essentials in your daypack; your duffle bag will be carried by the porters.
- Walk at your own pace and follow your guide’s advice on high-altitude sections.
- Bring some cash in Peruvian soles for tips or personal expenses.
- Travel insurance is strongly recommended for high-altitude trekking.
Packing List for the Luxury Inca Trail 5 Days
Pack light, but bring the essentials for changing mountain weather, high altitude hiking, and comfortable nights on the trail.
- Original passport used for your Inca Trail permit
- Small daypack for daily essentials
- Hiking boots already broken in
- Lightweight hiking shoes or sandals for camp
- Moisture-wicking shirts
- Warm fleece or down jacket
- Waterproof rain jacket or poncho
- Comfortable hiking pants
- Thermal base layers for cold nights
- Warm hat and gloves
- Sun hat or cap
- Sunglasses with UV protection
- Sunscreen and lip balm
- Reusable water bottle or hydration bladder
- Personal medication and basic toiletries
- Headlamp or small flashlight
- Camera or phone with extra battery
- Cash in Peruvian soles for tips or personal expenses
- Swimsuit for hot springs in Aguas Calientes, if you plan to visit them
Your duffle bag will be carried by the porter team, while you only carry what you need during the day.
Luxury Inca Trail 5 Days Prices
Our Luxury Inca Trail 5 Days is available exclusively as a private experience, offering the highest level of comfort, personalized attention, and flexibility throughout the journey. We do not operate scheduled group departures for this luxury trek. Instead, we provide pricing based on the size of your private group, with a lower cost per person as more travelers join the reservation.
Whether you’re traveling as a couple, with family, or with friends, you’ll enjoy spacious luxury campsites, premium camping equipment, exceptional meals prepared by professional chefs, and the dedicated support of our experienced trekking team. Every aspect of your adventure is carefully arranged, allowing you to experience the iconic Inca Trail and arrive at Machu Picchu at your own pace with an unmatched level of comfort and service.
- 1 people 5200 USD
- 2 people 3100 USD
- 3 people 2800 USD
- 4 people 2700 USD
- 5 people 2500 USD
- 6 people 2300 USD
- 7 people 2090 USD
- 8 or more people 2070 USD
Our private Luxury Inca Trail is reserved exclusively for you and your group, offering a fully personalized experience from the first day until your visit to Machu Picchu. Your private guide, chefs, porters, massage therapist, and support team will be dedicated entirely to your journey, ensuring every detail is tailored to your needs and preferences.
With a slower pace and an extra day on the trail, you’ll have more time to enjoy the landscapes, visit the Inca sites without feeling rushed, and relax each evening in luxury camps with spacious tents, comfortable beds, gourmet dining, and private facilities. It’s the perfect choice for travelers who want to experience the Inca Trail with exceptional comfort, privacy, and personalized service.
Available Tour Upgrades and Add ons
You can personalize your Luxury Inca Trail experience with the following optional upgrades. Some services require advance booking because spaces are limited, especially inside Machu Picchu.
- Huayna Picchu Mountain Permit $75 per person. Limited spaces, advance booking required.
- Machu Picchu Mountain Permit $75 per person. Recommended for travelers who want a longer scenic hike above the citadel.
- Single Room Supplement Available upon request for travelers who prefer a private hotel room in Aguas Calientes.
- 5 Star Hotel Upgrade in Aguas Calientes Available upon request, subject to hotel availability.
- Luxury Train Upgrade Available upon request for travelers who prefer a higher-category return train service.
- Extra Night in Cusco or Sacred Valley Available upon request before or after the trek.
- Additional Porter Service Available upon request if you need to carry more than the included duffle bag allowance.
- Private Airport Transfer in Cusco Available upon request for arrival or departure days outside the tour schedule.
Optional upgrades must be requested before confirmation so we can check availability and secure the required permits or services.
To help you prepare properly, we have included essential information about transportation, accommodation, recommendations, and optional upgrades for your journey reviewing these details before booking and before departure will help ensure a smoother and more enjoyable experience on the trail.
Trains to Machu Picchu
All trains to Aguas Calientes the town located at the base of Machu Picchu depart from Ollantaytambo station in the Sacred Valley. The drive from Cusco to the station takes approximately 1.5 to 2 hours.
There are no roads connecting directly to Aguas Calientes, making the train the main transportation option to reach Machu Picchu.
Trains Included in This Package
- Ollantaytambo to Km 104 — Peru Rail Expedition (Outbound — Day 1)
- Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo — Peru Rail Vistadome (Return — Day 2)
Train Classes Available
- Peru Rail Expedition — Standard service with comfortable seats, scenic windows, and reliable schedules.
- Peru Rail Vistadome — Panoramic windows on the sides and ceiling, wider seats, and enhanced scenic views. Included as the return train in this package.
- Vistadome Observatory — Premium open-roof observation carriage available as an optional upgrade for the return journey only (+$45 USD).
Train schedules are assigned by Peru Rail and confirmed during your pre-departure briefing. All train tickets are pre-booked and included in your package.
Accommodation in Aguas Calientes
Aguas Calientes sits at approximately 2,040 m / 6,693 ft, along the canyon floor at the base of Machu Picchu. It is the only town with accommodation access to the sanctuary and the overnight stop for this route.
Standard Accommodation Included
- Pisonay Mapi Hotel Boutique – 2 Stars — Centrally located with private rooms, hot water, and walking-distance access to the train station and Consettur bus stop.
Optional Hotel Upgrades
- Hatun Samay – 3 Stars +$20 USD
- Santuario – 3 Stars +$25 USD
- Hatun Inti Classic Superior +$30 USD
- Additional Hotel Options Consult our reservations team
Hotel availability is subject to seasonal demand, especially during peak travel months. We recommend confirming your preferred upgrade at the time of booking.
Machu Picchu Circuit Options
Circuit 1-C – Sun Gate (Intipunku) Route
This circuit follows the original access route used by Short Inca Trail hikers. It includes access to both the lower and upper viewpoints, providing elevated perspectives of Machu Picchu. The hikes continues toward Intipunku (Sun Gate), offering many panoramic views of the entire citadel.
Recommended for hikers focused on panoramic observation and scenic viewpoints rather than detailed exploration of the urban sector.
Circuit 3-B – Lower Sector / Urban Area
This circuit provides access to the lower sector (urban and ceremonial) sector of Machu Picchu. It includes key archaeological structures such as the Temple of the Sun, Twelve Niches, Temple of the Condor, and the Water Mirrors.
Recommended for visitors interested in architectural, cultural, and historical features within the core of the site.
Essential Information for Your Luxury Inca Trail Trek
Our Luxury 5 Day Inca Trail is a private, fully supported expedition designed for comfort, privacy, and smooth logistics. Even with premium service, this is still a high-altitude trek, so good preparation makes the experience much more enjoyable.
Pre-Trek Preparation and Altitude
- Acclimatization Arrive in Cusco or the Sacred Valley at least 2 to 3 days before the trek. This helps your body adjust before reaching the higher mountain passes.
- Physical preparation The route is well supported and carefully paced, but it remains a moderate to challenging hike. Walking, hiking, or cardio training before your trip is recommended.
- Private briefing Your Luxury Guide will meet you at your hotel in Cusco at 6:00 PM the evening before departure to review the route, safety details, luggage, and final questions.
Luggage and Porter Support
- Main luggage Your large suitcase should stay safely at your hotel in Cusco. You only need to bring what is required for the trek.
- Duffle bag allowance We provide a high-quality duffle bag carried by our porter team. The limit is 15 kg / 33 lbs per person, including personal items.
- Daypack You carry only your daily essentials, such as water, camera, rain gear, sunscreen, personal medicine, and valuables.
Luxury Camping and Comfort
- Private campsites You will spend three nights in reserved luxury campsites, away from the standard trekking setup.
- Trail comfort Camps include spacious walk-in tents, camping cots, mattresses, full-size bedding, private toilet tents, and hot showers.
- Private dining Meals are prepared by your private chef with fresh local ingredients. Vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and lactose-free meals can be arranged with advance notice.
Permits, Passport and Machu Picchu Access
- Inca Trail permits Permits are limited, non-transferable, and non-refundable. We secure them using the exact passport details provided at booking.
- Original passport You must carry the same passport used for your reservation. Your permit, passport, and train tickets must match exactly.
- Machu Picchu visit Your entry is organized for a private guided tour on Day 5, with timing planned to make the visit smoother and less rushed.
Inca Trail Luxury Faq's
This experience is designed for travelers who want to walk the legendary Inca Trail without sacrificing comfort, privacy, or personal attention. It is ideal for those who value meaningful travel, fine details, and a slower, more intentional pace while still enjoying the challenge and reward of reaching Machu Picchu on foot.
While the Inca Trail is physically demanding, this luxury itinerary is designed to reduce strain through careful pacing and added comfort. Challenging sections such as Dead Woman’s Pass are approached steadily and mindfully, allowing you to enjoy the landscape while maintaining your strength and well-being.
Meals are prepared by a private chef and reflect a refined approach to trail dining. Expect gourmet dishes made with fresh ingredients, thoughtfully presented and served in scenic settings. Dining becomes a highlight of each day, offering nourishment that supports both body and spirit.
You arrive at Machu Picchu early in the morning, before the steady flow of visitors. This privileged timing allows for a calm, immersive guided visit, where the citadel feels almost suspended in time. Afterward, you enjoy a final gourmet lunch before returning to Cusco aboard a luxury panoramic train.
The difference lies in the rhythm and the level of care. This luxury version is privately guided, thoughtfully paced, and supported by spacious luxury camps, gourmet cuisine, and handpicked campsites chosen for privacy and views. Instead of rushing between points, you are invited to truly inhabit the trail and experience it with presence.
Camps are an essential part of the experience. You will stay in spacious, walk-in luxury tents with full-size beds, proper bedding, and private dining setups. Locations such as Hatunchaca and Phuyupatamarca are selected not only for comfort, but for their privacy, tranquility, and unforgettable views.
With a private guide, the trail becomes personal. Your guide adjusts the pace, timing, and storytelling to your interests, sharing historical context, cultural insight, and quiet moments when silence speaks louder than words. This creates a deeper connection to the Inca world and the landscapes you cross.
Beyond reaching Machu Picchu, this journey offers a sense of accomplishment, reflection, and quiet transformation. Walking the same paths as the Incas, supported by comfort and care, many travelers describe this experience as not just a trek, but a deeply personal passage through history, landscape, and self.
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