Discover the Vilcabamba Trek, an unforgettable 5-day adventure and a true Inca Trail alternative that follows the footsteps of the last Incas. This journey, known as the Vilcabamba to Machu Picchu Trek, takes you through the remote Andes of Peru, exploring the last Inca refuge and the legendary Neo-Inca State Trek.
The Vilcabamba Peru trek is a rich blend of adventure, history, and culture. Hike along ancient Inca paths, visiting significant Inca ruins in Vilcabamba, including the remarkable Vitcos ruins and Ñusta Hispana. This trek offers an authentic Inca Empire history trek, letting travelers connect deeply with the heritage and resilience of the last Inca rulers.
What Makes the Vilcabamba Trek Unique
The Vilcabamba Trek is perfect for history enthusiasts, adventure seekers, and those looking for a unique path to Machu Picchu. Explore hidden corners of Peru, discover the Inca ruins of Vilcabamba, and complete your journey with a profound connection to the last Inca refuge.
Hidden deep within the Andes, Vilcabamba, Peru is a region filled with history, mystery, and breathtaking natural beauty. Known as the Last Inca Stronghold, it served as the final refuge of the Inca Empire during their resistance against the Spanish conquistadors in the 16th century. Today, the Vilcabamba Trek—also called the Vilcabamba to Machu Picchu Trek—offers travelers a rare combination of adventure, culture, and history, making it one of the most authentic Machu Picchu hiking tours.
We pick you up from your hotel in Cusco and travel through Ollantaytambo and Abra Málaga before reaching Huancacalle, the starting point of the Neo-Inca State Trek. After lunch, we explore the Vitcos ruins and Ñusta Hispana, key sites of the Inca Empire history trek, before hiking an original Inca trail. Overnight at our campsite.
We begin with a 4-hour hike along ancient trails, reaching Totora Huayco at 1,890 m. After ascending to Jasutina Pass, we enjoy incredible views of snow-capped Andean peaks. A descent brings us to Racachaca, where we camp with views of majestic Lasoma peak.
A challenging but rewarding day! We cross three mountain passes—Yanococha, Tullutacanca, and Abra Mojon—passing high alpine lakes and meadows. From the last pass, we descend to Mutuypata, where we camp surrounded by lush Andean landscapes.
The trail descends into warmer, tropical terrain with coffee, yucca, and granadilla farms. After reaching Yanatile, we transfer to Santa Teresa for lunch, with an optional visit to Cocalmayo hot springs. We then continue to Aguas Calientes, spending the night in a hotel before our Machu Picchu tour.
After an early breakfast, we head to Machu Picchu, arriving as the gates open to enjoy the site at its quietest. A guided tour reveals the mysteries of this Wonder of the World, followed by free time to climb Huayna Picchu or visit the Temple of the Moon. In the afternoon, we take the train back to Cusco, completing an unforgettable Vilcabamba to Machu Picchu Trek.
Your Sacred Vilcabamba Trek to Machu Picchu begins with an early pick-up from your hotel in Cusco. We’ll journey through the Sacred Valley of the Incas, passing Ollantaytambo before climbing to the impressive Abra Málaga Pass. From here, we descend into the lush high jungle of the Vilcabamba region, the heart of the Last Inca refuge.
Our first stop is the Inca ruins of Huamanmarca, where you’ll discover an usnu ceremonial platform and impressive double-jamb doorways aligned to the four cardinal points. Continuing along the valley, we reach Huancacalle, where we meet our muleteers and mules—essential companions for this adventure.
After lunch, the trek truly begins as we explore the Rosaspata-Vitcos ruins, a key site of the Neo-Inca State Trek. Once a noble Inca residence and ceremonial hub, Vitcos reveals iconic landmarks such as the mysterious Ñusta Hispana and the carved Yurac Rumi (White Rock), tied to legends of Manco Inca. This is a highlight of the Inca Empire history trek, offering a deep connection to Peru’s cultural past.
As the sun sets, we hike toward Casapata, where we set up camp, enjoy a freshly prepared dinner, and spend our first night surrounded by the stunning Andean landscape.
Day 2 of your Sacred Vilcabamba Trek to Machu Picchu begins early, as this is considered the toughest and most rewarding day of the journey. We start by ascending through the rugged Pumachaka River ravine until reaching the Chupana sector of Vilcabamba, the river’s source. Along the way, we walk sections of an ancient Inca trail, immersing ourselves in the footsteps of the Last Inca Trek.
The route takes us through diverse ecological zones, from fertile Quechua valleys to the dry Suni highlands and into the windswept puna shrublands. Here, we’ll encounter native plants traditionally used for natural dyes in local textiles—a true blend of histórico-culturales experiences with nature and culture.
After a steady climb, we reach the Pillaujasa Pass, a high mountain crossing that rewards us with breathtaking views of the dramatic Andean landscape. This moment is a highlight of the Inca Empire history trek, offering both challenge and awe.
From the pass, the trail descends into the Racchchaka River valley, which we follow upstream until we arrive at Hatunpampa. Here we set up camp and enjoy a delicious dinner while gazing at the snow-capped Tuytubamba Mountain, an unforgettable sight on this Vilcabamba Peru trek and one of the most scenic parts of this Inca Trail alternative.
After an early breakfast, we continue our Vilcabamba Trek to Machu Picchu, facing another challenging but rewarding day. Our path climbs steadily towards the Yanacocha mountain pass (4,500 m), where we walk through enchanting forests of native queuña and kiswar trees. From the top, we enjoy panoramic views of the high Andes and the mystical Yanacocha Lake, a highlight of this Inca Trail alternative.
From here, we ascend to the Mojon Pass, the last high mountain crossing of our journey. Standing on the windswept puna, surrounded by vast peaks, you’ll feel the isolation and power of the Last Inca refuge, far removed from modern civilization. This section is one of the most scenic and spiritual moments of the entire Neo-Inca State Trek.
After conquering the high passes, we descend into the Mutuypata ravine, where we’ll stop for a well-deserved lunch and rest. Continuing onwards, the trail leads us into the lush Saqsarayoq River Valley, where diverse Andean ecosystems begin to merge with the cloud forest. We cross the Saqsarayoq River before arriving at Nogalpampa, our campsite for the night. Here we enjoy dinner surrounded by pristine nature, reflecting on another incredible day of the Vilcabamba Peru trek.
On Day 4 of the Sacred Vilcabamba Trek to Machu Picchu, we cover the greatest distance of the journey, but at a much lower altitude, making this section far easier than the previous mountain days. Best of all, there are no more high passes to cross.
After breakfast, we begin with a gentle downhill hike through native Andean forest, descending steadily into warmer valleys. As the altitude drops, the scenery transforms from temperate jungle into fertile lands filled with coffee and tropical fruit plantations, offering a glimpse into the daily life of the local communities of the Vilcabamba Peru trek.
Upon reaching Yanatile, our vehicle will be waiting to transfer us to the hydroelectric station, located near Aguas Calientes. From here, we continue with a pleasant hike along a flat trail that runs parallel to the railway, surrounded by lush vegetation and scenic views. This final stretch takes around two hours before arriving in Aguas Calientes, the gateway town to Machu Picchu.
If you prefer to skip this section, you also have the option of taking the short train ride (approximately 45 minutes, $39 per person) from the hydroelectric station directly to Aguas Calientes.
We will spend the night in a comfortable hotel in Aguas Calientes, resting and preparing for the highlight of the Vilcabamba to Machu Picchu Trek: our guided exploration of the Inca citadel the following day.
To fully appreciate the magic of Machu Picchu, we begin very early on the final day of the Sacred Vilcabamba Trek to Machu Picchu. After an early breakfast in Aguas Calientes, your guide will meet you around 5:40 a.m. for the short walk to the bus station. From here, we’ll ascend via the zigzagging road to the entrance gate of the Machu Picchu archaeological site.
Once inside, your guided tour begins. Over the course of two hours, your expert guide will lead you through the most iconic and sacred spaces of this world wonder: the Guardian’s House, the Temple of the Sun, the Sacred Plaza, and the Intihuatana – the famous carved stone that functioned as a solar clock. From these vantage points, you’ll enjoy breathtaking views across the terraces, deep valleys, and surrounding Andean peaks.
After the guided portion, you’ll have free time to continue exploring on your own. You may choose to walk to the Inca Bridge, wander the agricultural terraces, or simply soak in the atmosphere of this UNESCO World Heritage Site. Optional hikes to Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain can also be arranged in advance for panoramic views.
In the afternoon, we’ll take the bus back down to Aguas Calientes, where you can relax and enjoy lunch (not included). Later, we board the train bound for Poroy and return by private transport to Cusco, where your extraordinary Vilcabamba to Machu Picchu Trek comes to an end.
This final day completes not only a journey through spectacular Andean landscapes but also a profound Inca Empire history trek, following the path of the Last Inca refuge from Vilcabamba Peru all the way to the legendary citadel of Machu Picchu.
At Tunqui Expeditions, we take care of all the logistics so you can fully enjoy your adventure on the Vilcabamba Trek, also known as the Last Inca Trek. Below you’ll find everything that is included in our service:
While we provide almost everything, please note that the following are not included in the price:
At Tunqui Expeditions, we want your trip to Peru to be memorable, safe, and stress-free. This section answers the most common questions about the Vilcabamba Trek to Machu Picchu, so please read carefully before your adventure.
The Vilcabamba Trek is a challenging and rewarding alternative to the Inca Trail. It’s ideal for adventurous trekkers ready to take on higher altitudes, longer distances, and experience the wild beauty of the Andes far from crowds.
Join our commitment to a plastic-free trek, where breathtaking landscapes meet sustainable tourism. We provide reusable alternatives and eco-friendly practices to ensure your adventure helps protect the Andean environment.
To avoid altitude sickness, we recommend arriving in Cusco at least 2–3 days before your trek. Even if you’ve visited high-altitude areas before, take at least one day in Cusco to rest, explore, and acclimatize.
Recommended activities around Cusco before your Vilcabamba Trek 5 Days:
One bus ticket (one-way) is included; return ticket costs US$12 extra.
Strikes in Peru are unpredictable and may affect roads or railways. If necessary, we’ll adjust schedules—even leaving earlier—to keep your trip on track. Your safety is always our top priority.
Packing properly for the Vilcabamba Trek 5 Days is essential to ensure comfort, safety, and enjoyment throughout your adventure. Below is our recommended packing list, organized into categories and optimized for high-altitude trekking.
Your duffel bag (up to 8 kg / 17.6 lb) will be carried by our horsemen or porters. It must include your sleeping bag and sleeping pad, which together weigh around 3.5 kg.
The Vilcabamba Trek to Machu Picchu (5 Days) is available any day of the week from March through January. We do not operate this trek in February, as it coincides with the rainy season and scheduled trail maintenance.
This pause is also important for our Tunqui Expeditions team—including guides, cooks, porters, and muleteers—who use this month for specialized training, safety workshops, and logistical planning. This ensures that every traveler who joins us enjoys the safest, most authentic, and memorable trekking experience possible.
👉 Best time to trek: April to October (dry season), when the weather is more stable and the trails offer clearer views of the Andes and Inca ruins.
Deposit Required: US$ 200.00 per person
Remaining Balance (in Cusco): US$ 650.00
(Paid in cash after the pre-departure briefing)
⚠️ Please note: PayPal charges a 5% processing fee, which the client is responsible for. This applies only to online deposits. You can pay the remaining balance in cash (USD or soles) in our Cusco office without any additional fees.
Enhance your Peru adventure with these optional tours:
You can rent the following items for your trek:
Customize your Machu Picchu experience:
Once your reservation is confirmed, your price is locked in — it will not increase under any circumstances. We believe in transparency and fairness.
We offer a US$ 20.00 discount for students aged 17 or younger.
To receive this discount, please email a clear copy or photo of the student’s passport at the time of booking. The passport must be valid and not expire before the travel date.
Send to: [email protected]
Hidden deep within the Andes, Vilcabamba, Peru is a region filled with history, mystery, and breathtaking natural beauty. Known as the Last Inca Stronghold, it served as the final refuge of the Inca Empire during their resistance against the Spanish conquistadors in the 16th century. Today, the Vilcabamba Trek—also called the Vilcabamba to Machu Picchu Trek—offers travelers a rare combination of adventure, culture, and history, making it one of the most authentic Machu Picchu hiking tours.
We pick you up from your hotel in Cusco and travel through Ollantaytambo and Abra Málaga before reaching Huancacalle, the starting point of the Neo-Inca State Trek. After lunch, we explore the Vitcos ruins and Ñusta Hispana, key sites of the Inca Empire history trek, before hiking an original Inca trail. Overnight at our campsite.
We begin with a 4-hour hike along ancient trails, reaching Totora Huayco at 1,890 m. After ascending to Jasutina Pass, we enjoy incredible views of snow-capped Andean peaks. A descent brings us to Racachaca, where we camp with views of majestic Lasoma peak.
A challenging but rewarding day! We cross three mountain passes—Yanococha, Tullutacanca, and Abra Mojon—passing high alpine lakes and meadows. From the last pass, we descend to Mutuypata, where we camp surrounded by lush Andean landscapes.
The trail descends into warmer, tropical terrain with coffee, yucca, and granadilla farms. After reaching Yanatile, we transfer to Santa Teresa for lunch, with an optional visit to Cocalmayo hot springs. We then continue to Aguas Calientes, spending the night in a hotel before our Machu Picchu tour.
After an early breakfast, we head to Machu Picchu, arriving as the gates open to enjoy the site at its quietest. A guided tour reveals the mysteries of this Wonder of the World, followed by free time to climb Huayna Picchu or visit the Temple of the Moon. In the afternoon, we take the train back to Cusco, completing an unforgettable Vilcabamba to Machu Picchu Trek.
Your Sacred Vilcabamba Trek to Machu Picchu begins with an early pick-up from your hotel in Cusco. We’ll journey through the Sacred Valley of the Incas, passing Ollantaytambo before climbing to the impressive Abra Málaga Pass. From here, we descend into the lush high jungle of the Vilcabamba region, the heart of the Last Inca refuge.
Our first stop is the Inca ruins of Huamanmarca, where you’ll discover an usnu ceremonial platform and impressive double-jamb doorways aligned to the four cardinal points. Continuing along the valley, we reach Huancacalle, where we meet our muleteers and mules—essential companions for this adventure.
After lunch, the trek truly begins as we explore the Rosaspata-Vitcos ruins, a key site of the Neo-Inca State Trek. Once a noble Inca residence and ceremonial hub, Vitcos reveals iconic landmarks such as the mysterious Ñusta Hispana and the carved Yurac Rumi (White Rock), tied to legends of Manco Inca. This is a highlight of the Inca Empire history trek, offering a deep connection to Peru’s cultural past.
As the sun sets, we hike toward Casapata, where we set up camp, enjoy a freshly prepared dinner, and spend our first night surrounded by the stunning Andean landscape.
Day 2 of your Sacred Vilcabamba Trek to Machu Picchu begins early, as this is considered the toughest and most rewarding day of the journey. We start by ascending through the rugged Pumachaka River ravine until reaching the Chupana sector of Vilcabamba, the river’s source. Along the way, we walk sections of an ancient Inca trail, immersing ourselves in the footsteps of the Last Inca Trek.
The route takes us through diverse ecological zones, from fertile Quechua valleys to the dry Suni highlands and into the windswept puna shrublands. Here, we’ll encounter native plants traditionally used for natural dyes in local textiles—a true blend of histórico-culturales experiences with nature and culture.
After a steady climb, we reach the Pillaujasa Pass, a high mountain crossing that rewards us with breathtaking views of the dramatic Andean landscape. This moment is a highlight of the Inca Empire history trek, offering both challenge and awe.
From the pass, the trail descends into the Racchchaka River valley, which we follow upstream until we arrive at Hatunpampa. Here we set up camp and enjoy a delicious dinner while gazing at the snow-capped Tuytubamba Mountain, an unforgettable sight on this Vilcabamba Peru trek and one of the most scenic parts of this Inca Trail alternative.
After an early breakfast, we continue our Vilcabamba Trek to Machu Picchu, facing another challenging but rewarding day. Our path climbs steadily towards the Yanacocha mountain pass (4,500 m), where we walk through enchanting forests of native queuña and kiswar trees. From the top, we enjoy panoramic views of the high Andes and the mystical Yanacocha Lake, a highlight of this Inca Trail alternative.
From here, we ascend to the Mojon Pass, the last high mountain crossing of our journey. Standing on the windswept puna, surrounded by vast peaks, you’ll feel the isolation and power of the Last Inca refuge, far removed from modern civilization. This section is one of the most scenic and spiritual moments of the entire Neo-Inca State Trek.
After conquering the high passes, we descend into the Mutuypata ravine, where we’ll stop for a well-deserved lunch and rest. Continuing onwards, the trail leads us into the lush Saqsarayoq River Valley, where diverse Andean ecosystems begin to merge with the cloud forest. We cross the Saqsarayoq River before arriving at Nogalpampa, our campsite for the night. Here we enjoy dinner surrounded by pristine nature, reflecting on another incredible day of the Vilcabamba Peru trek.
On Day 4 of the Sacred Vilcabamba Trek to Machu Picchu, we cover the greatest distance of the journey, but at a much lower altitude, making this section far easier than the previous mountain days. Best of all, there are no more high passes to cross.
After breakfast, we begin with a gentle downhill hike through native Andean forest, descending steadily into warmer valleys. As the altitude drops, the scenery transforms from temperate jungle into fertile lands filled with coffee and tropical fruit plantations, offering a glimpse into the daily life of the local communities of the Vilcabamba Peru trek.
Upon reaching Yanatile, our vehicle will be waiting to transfer us to the hydroelectric station, located near Aguas Calientes. From here, we continue with a pleasant hike along a flat trail that runs parallel to the railway, surrounded by lush vegetation and scenic views. This final stretch takes around two hours before arriving in Aguas Calientes, the gateway town to Machu Picchu.
If you prefer to skip this section, you also have the option of taking the short train ride (approximately 45 minutes, $39 per person) from the hydroelectric station directly to Aguas Calientes.
We will spend the night in a comfortable hotel in Aguas Calientes, resting and preparing for the highlight of the Vilcabamba to Machu Picchu Trek: our guided exploration of the Inca citadel the following day.
To fully appreciate the magic of Machu Picchu, we begin very early on the final day of the Sacred Vilcabamba Trek to Machu Picchu. After an early breakfast in Aguas Calientes, your guide will meet you around 5:40 a.m. for the short walk to the bus station. From here, we’ll ascend via the zigzagging road to the entrance gate of the Machu Picchu archaeological site.
Once inside, your guided tour begins. Over the course of two hours, your expert guide will lead you through the most iconic and sacred spaces of this world wonder: the Guardian’s House, the Temple of the Sun, the Sacred Plaza, and the Intihuatana – the famous carved stone that functioned as a solar clock. From these vantage points, you’ll enjoy breathtaking views across the terraces, deep valleys, and surrounding Andean peaks.
After the guided portion, you’ll have free time to continue exploring on your own. You may choose to walk to the Inca Bridge, wander the agricultural terraces, or simply soak in the atmosphere of this UNESCO World Heritage Site. Optional hikes to Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain can also be arranged in advance for panoramic views.
In the afternoon, we’ll take the bus back down to Aguas Calientes, where you can relax and enjoy lunch (not included). Later, we board the train bound for Poroy and return by private transport to Cusco, where your extraordinary Vilcabamba to Machu Picchu Trek comes to an end.
This final day completes not only a journey through spectacular Andean landscapes but also a profound Inca Empire history trek, following the path of the Last Inca refuge from Vilcabamba Peru all the way to the legendary citadel of Machu Picchu.
At Tunqui Expeditions, we take care of all the logistics so you can fully enjoy your adventure on the Vilcabamba Trek, also known as the Last Inca Trek. Below you’ll find everything that is included in our service:
While we provide almost everything, please note that the following are not included in the price:
At Tunqui Expeditions, we want your trip to Peru to be memorable, safe, and stress-free. This section answers the most common questions about the Vilcabamba Trek to Machu Picchu, so please read carefully before your adventure.
The Vilcabamba Trek is a challenging and rewarding alternative to the Inca Trail. It’s ideal for adventurous trekkers ready to take on higher altitudes, longer distances, and experience the wild beauty of the Andes far from crowds.
Join our commitment to a plastic-free trek, where breathtaking landscapes meet sustainable tourism. We provide reusable alternatives and eco-friendly practices to ensure your adventure helps protect the Andean environment.
To avoid altitude sickness, we recommend arriving in Cusco at least 2–3 days before your trek. Even if you’ve visited high-altitude areas before, take at least one day in Cusco to rest, explore, and acclimatize.
Recommended activities around Cusco before your Vilcabamba Trek 5 Days:
One bus ticket (one-way) is included; return ticket costs US$12 extra.
Strikes in Peru are unpredictable and may affect roads or railways. If necessary, we’ll adjust schedules—even leaving earlier—to keep your trip on track. Your safety is always our top priority.
Packing properly for the Vilcabamba Trek 5 Days is essential to ensure comfort, safety, and enjoyment throughout your adventure. Below is our recommended packing list, organized into categories and optimized for high-altitude trekking.
Your duffel bag (up to 8 kg / 17.6 lb) will be carried by our horsemen or porters. It must include your sleeping bag and sleeping pad, which together weigh around 3.5 kg.
The Vilcabamba Trek to Machu Picchu (5 Days) is available any day of the week from March through January. We do not operate this trek in February, as it coincides with the rainy season and scheduled trail maintenance.
This pause is also important for our Tunqui Expeditions team—including guides, cooks, porters, and muleteers—who use this month for specialized training, safety workshops, and logistical planning. This ensures that every traveler who joins us enjoys the safest, most authentic, and memorable trekking experience possible.
👉 Best time to trek: April to October (dry season), when the weather is more stable and the trails offer clearer views of the Andes and Inca ruins.
Deposit Required: US$ 200.00 per person
Remaining Balance (in Cusco): US$ 650.00
(Paid in cash after the pre-departure briefing)
⚠️ Please note: PayPal charges a 5% processing fee, which the client is responsible for. This applies only to online deposits. You can pay the remaining balance in cash (USD or soles) in our Cusco office without any additional fees.
Enhance your Peru adventure with these optional tours:
You can rent the following items for your trek:
Customize your Machu Picchu experience:
Once your reservation is confirmed, your price is locked in — it will not increase under any circumstances. We believe in transparency and fairness.
We offer a US$ 20.00 discount for students aged 17 or younger.
To receive this discount, please email a clear copy or photo of the student’s passport at the time of booking. The passport must be valid and not expire before the travel date.
Send to: [email protected]
