A slower-paced adventure on the legendary Inca Trail!
Enjoy five incredible days discovering the wonders of the Andes!
This version of the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu follows a similar route to our classic 4-day trek — but at a more relaxed pace.
That means you’ll have more time to explore the archaeological sites along the way, making it a perfect option for travelers concerned about hiking speed and stamina, or for families with younger hikers.
Hike without worries and fully enjoy the experience — we take care of everything!
From securing the best campsites, serving nutritious and delicious meals, and providing top-quality gear, we’ve got you covered.
Our dedicated team — including a friendly, knowledgeable guide, talented chefs, and hardworking porters — will manage every detail of your adventure so you can simply focus on soaking in the breathtaking landscapes and creating unforgettable memories.
Explore more, hike less – the Inca Trail at your own rhythm.
The 5-Day Slow-Paced Inca Trail follows the same route as the Classic 4-Day Inca Trail, but allows you to spend more time at each archaeological site and hike shorter distances each day.
This is a perfect option for families, couples, children, or anyone who wants to take their time enjoying the Inca Trail experience in smaller groups, while exploring each Inca site in depth.
DAY 01: CUSCO – OLLANTAYTAMBO – KM 82 – PALLACTA – HATUNCHAKA
Pick-up from your hotel at 5:00 a.m. and travel by bus to Km 82. After breakfast, begin the 5-day Inca Trail along the Urubamba and Cusichaca Rivers. Visit local villages and important archaeological sites like Willkarakay, Patallacta, and Hatunchaka.
DAY 02: HATUNCHAKA – WAYLLABAMBA – WARMIWAÑUSCA – PACAYMAYO
Wake up with fresh coffee in your tent and get ready to hike to the highest point of the Inca Trail, Warmiwañusca (Dead Woman’s Pass) at 4,215 m (13,828 ft). The hike is challenging but offers breathtaking mountain views.
DAY 03: PACAYMAYO – RUNKURAKAY – SAYACMARCA – PHUYUPATAMARCA
Conquer the second and final mountain pass, Runkurakay at 4,000 m (13,123 ft). Visit the archaeological sites of Runkurakay, Sayacmarca, and Conchamarka, and enter the mystical cloud forest. Camp at the best viewpoint of the Andes.
DAY 04: PHUYUPATAMARKA – INTIPATA – WIÑAYWAYNA – INTIPUNKU – MACHU PICCHU
Wake up to a sunrise over the Andes on the most beautiful day of the hike. Explore Phuyupatamarka, Intipata, Wiñaywayna, and Inti Punku (Sun Gate). Arrive at Machu Picchu in the afternoon when it’s quiet and nearly empty. Overnight at a 3-star hotel in Aguas Calientes.
DAY 05: AGUAS CALIENTES – MACHU PICCHU (THE LOST CITY OF THE INCAS) – CUSCO
Take the first buses up to Machu Picchu and enjoy a guided tour of the most iconic sites. After lunch, travel back to Ollantaytambo by panoramic train, then return to Cusco in a private van.
Highlight of the Day: Explore Inca ruins and take in breathtaking Andean landscapes.
Take your first steps on ancient paths.
We’ll pick you up from your hotel in Cusco at 5:00 a.m. in our private transportation and head to KM 82, the starting point of the Inca Trail.
Your chef will prepare a hearty breakfast before we begin our trek along the left bank of the Urubamba River, following a flat trail to the small community of Miskay (2,800 m / 9,184 ft).
The first two hours are relatively easy as we hike toward Patallacta, our first Inca archaeological site and checkpoint. From here, our real journey to Machu Picchu begins.
We’ll stop for lunch near a beautiful canyon with scenic views, then continue at a relaxed pace while enjoying stories from your guide. After two more hours, we’ll reach our campsite in the village of Hatunchaka (3,000 m / 9,842 ft).
Highlight of the Day: Conquering the highest point of the trail and enjoying spectacular mountain views.
Challenge yourself – you’ve got this!
We’ll start early to make our way up to Dead Woman’s Pass (Warmiwañusca), the most physically demanding part of the trail, but incredibly rewarding.
This steep ascent stretches over 9 kilometers, bringing us to an altitude of 4,215 m (13,828 ft). We’ll pause at Llulluchapampa to rest and purchase last-minute essentials. With luck, we may spot deer, hawks, llamas, and alpacas grazing on ichu grass.
Once we reach the pass, we’ll celebrate with coca tea and enjoy the panoramic views before descending for about two hours to our Pacaymayo Valley campsite, where we’ll have lunch and free time to rest.
Highlight of the Day: Spectacular vistas and celebrating the end of your trekking journey.
Feel the magic of the Incas as you walk through ancient lands.
After breakfast, we’ll ascend the opposite side of the valley toward the second pass. Along the way, we’ll see waterfalls and a variety of flora and fauna.
We’ll stop at Runkurakay, a circular Inca watchtower, before continuing to Runkurakay Pass (4,000 m / 13,123 ft). From here, we’ll descend into the cloud forest.
After about an hour, we’ll visit the magnificent Sayacmarca ruins, where our guide will lead a 1-hour tour. We’ll continue to Chaquicocha for lunch and enjoy more Andean wildlife and plants.
From there, we’ll hike the Inca flat path with gentle inclines to our final campsite at Phuyupatamarca (3,680 m / 12,033 ft) — one of the most beautiful viewpoints on the trail. As the sun sets, you’ll catch your first glimpse of Machu Picchu and the Urubamba River.
Highlight of the Day: Your first magical views of Machu Picchu.
Visit the legendary Lost City of the Incas.
If weather permits, we’ll enjoy one of the most breathtaking sunrises on the Inca Trail. After breakfast, we’ll explore Phuyupatamarca, then descend a long stone staircase to Wiñay Wayna (2,650 m / 8,692 ft) for lunch.
Along the way, we’ll visit Intipata (Sun Terraces), a major agricultural site with spectacular Sacred Valley views.
At Wiñay Wayna, the largest archaeological site on the Inca Trail after Machu Picchu, we’ll see agricultural terraces, religious areas, and urban structures.
After a special farewell lunch with our porters and cooks, we’ll hold a traditional ceremony to thank them for their amazing work. You may offer tips at this time, if you wish.
Then we’ll hike to Inti Punku (Sun Gate), where you’ll get your first panoramic view of Machu Picchu. From here, it’s another hour to reach the citadel. We’ll enjoy the sunset in a peaceful atmosphere without crowds, then take the bus to Aguas Calientes for the night.
Private groups may choose to camp instead of staying at the hotel.
Highlight of the Day: Explore the ancient streets of Machu Picchu and imagine life centuries ago.
Feel the energy of Machu Picchu and uncover Inca secrets.
We’ll board one of the first buses at 5:30 a.m. to Machu Picchu to catch the sunrise (weather permitting). Enjoy a 2-hour guided tour of the key sites within the citadel, followed by free time to explore.
If you’ve reserved a permit for Huayna Picchu, your guide will direct you to the trailhead. The roundtrip hike takes about 1.5 hours and must be booked in advance ($75 USD per person).
After your visit, return to Aguas Calientes for a final optional lunch with the group (not included).
In the afternoon, board the panoramic train to Ollantaytambo, where a private van will be waiting to transfer you back to your hotel in Cusco.
At Tunqui Expeditions, we specify what’s included and not included in all our tour itineraries listed on our website. We handle all logistics, but please read the details carefully so you don’t miss anything.
Some elements may vary depending on the program, so be sure to read thoroughly before booking.
Pre-Trek Briefing
The evening before your trek, meet your guide and group at our Cusco office at 5:00 p.m. You’ll receive a duffel bag (max. 7 kg / 15.4 lb) carried by our porters. It must include your sleeping bag and air mat (if bringing or renting one).
Professional Tour Guide
Bilingual (English-Spanish) licensed guides, graduates of the Tourism program at the National University of San Antonio Abad of Cusco. Local, passionate, responsible, and committed to safety and fun.
First Aid Kit & Oxygen
Our guides are certified in first aid and participate in mandatory yearly training. They carry a first aid kit, oxygen, and are trained to handle altitude sickness, minor injuries, and emergencies.
All gear is carried by our porter team:
Hotel upgrades available upon request.
Extras:
Our porters carry:
At Tunqui Expeditions, we want your trip to Peru to be as memorable and stress-free as possible. In this section, you’ll find answers to all your questions about traveling with us — all in one place.
Please read the following information carefully — it will help you understand our services and prepare for your adventure.
Still have questions we haven’t answered here?
Contact us and we’ll get back to you as soon as possible!
It’s very important to acclimate properly to the altitude before starting your hike. We recommend arriving in Cusco at least 2–3 days prior to your trek to adjust and avoid altitude sickness.
Even if you’ve already been in other high-altitude areas of Peru, we still suggest spending one full day in Cusco to rest, recover from your trip, and enjoy the city before heading out.
Recommended activities before your trek:
All briefings take place at our main office in Cusco (or at your hotel) at 5:00 p.m., the night before your trek begins. These sessions last about 30–45 minutes.
If you can’t attend, please contact us by email, phone, or in person to reschedule.
If you still have an outstanding balance, it must be paid at least 2 days before your trek. Otherwise, your reservation will not be confirmed.
We prefer cash payments in USD or Peruvian soles at our office. ATMs that dispense both currencies can be found along Avenida El Sol.
You can also pay by credit/debit card or PayPal (online or in person), but please note a 5% service fee applies.
Unfortunately, we do not accept checks or traveler’s checks.
You’ll receive your duffel bag at the pre-trek briefing. Porters will carry this along the trail and deliver it to you at each campsite.
Bag dimensions: 60 x 24 x 22 cm (23.6 x 9.45 x 8.66 in)
Weight limit: 7 kg / 15.4 lb (includes sleeping bag, mat, clothes, and personal items)
Yes, absolutely!
Your main luggage can be stored safely in our office or at your hotel free of charge. You can arrange this during your briefing or by email.
Most hotels offer this service too. We recommend not leaving valuables in your bags — instead, use the hotel safe and request a detailed receipt, in case of an insurance claim. You may want to seal credit cards in a signed envelope for extra peace of mind.
We offer hotel pick-up within Cusco’s Historic Center. Your guide will confirm your pick-up time during the briefing.
Please note:
Cusco has many narrow cobblestone streets and steep hills.
Some hotels and Airbnbs may not be accessible by car.
We strongly recommend booking accommodations with vehicle access for a smoother experience.
Our group tours bring together travelers of different ages and fitness levels.
By joining a group, you acknowledge that some hikers may be faster or slower than others. Everyone is encouraged to go at their own pace.
If the group wishes to modify the itinerary, the final decision lies with the guide, who will consult all participants.
Returning from Machu Picchu involves several steps — all included in your tour:
Strikes and protests are common in Peru and can disrupt tours, especially by blocking roads or train tracks.
We will always try to maintain your itinerary, even if it means departing earlier than scheduled. In the event of cancellations or changes, our operations team will coordinate everything with you.
Your safety is our top priority, and we will always make decisions that protect you.
Please take care of your personal belongings.
Always double-check your items before leaving our transport, tents, or restaurants.
You are solely responsible for your belongings throughout the tour.
To make your adventure safe and comfortable, please review this recommended packing list. Porters will carry up to 7 kg (15.4 lb) of your personal items (including your sleeping bag and air mattress if bringing/renting one).
Porters will carry up to 7 kg of your personal belongings, which must include your sleeping bag and air mattress. These two items typically weigh 3.5 kg combined.
Our Classic 4-Day Inca Trail departs any day of the week, from March to January.
Note: We do not operate this trek during the entire month of February due to the rainy season.
This small-group trek is guaranteed with just 2 people.
Important: PayPal charges a 5% service fee, which must be covered by the client for online deposits only. The remaining balance is paid in cash at the briefing with no extra charges.
Enhance your Peru adventure by adding one of these day tours before or after your trek:
You may rent the following items if you don’t have your own:
Want to personalize your experience? Here are some upgrades and permit options you can include:
All mountain permits are subject to availability and must be booked in advance.
Once your reservation is confirmed, your price is locked in — no unexpected increases.
Please make sure to read all important tour details before booking.
We offer a US$ 20.00 discount for students 17 years old or younger.
To receive the discount, send a clear photo or copy of the passport at the time of booking.
The passport must be valid and not expiring before or during your travel dates.
Send documents to: info@tunquiexpeditions.com
