Inca Trail 5 Day Premium

Today marks the most challenging yet rewarding day of your 5-day Inca Trail trek to Machu Picchu. We start early to beat the crowds and make the most of the breathtaking views that await.

After breakfast, you’ll ascend to the highest point on the trail, Dead Woman’s Pass (Warmiwañusca), at an impressive 4,215 meters (13,828 feet). This demanding climb, which takes about 1.5 to 2 hours, is tough but unforgettable — rewarding you with panoramic vistas of the Andean mountain range and diverse microclimates. From this vantage point, the stunning snow-capped peaks and deep green valleys unfold around you, offering some of the best views on the entire trek.

From the pass, you’ll descend into the Pacaymayo Valley (3,625 m / 11,893 ft), where a mid-morning break allows you to recharge with tea before tackling the second ascent of the day to Abra Runkurakay (3,970 m / 13,024 ft). On the way, you’ll explore the Runkurakay archaeological site, a small oval-shaped Inca structure believed to have served as a watchtower, set amidst dramatic mountain scenery.

After crossing this second pass, the trail descends toward Yanacocha (Black Lake) as you enter the lush cloud forest. Your next archaeological stop is Sayacmarca (3,624 m / 11,887 ft), a well-preserved Inca complex featuring semicircular buildings, narrow streets, irrigation canals, and liturgical fountains — a captivating glimpse into ancient Incan life.

Depending on your pace, lunch will be served at Chaquicocha (Dry Lake) around mid-afternoon, where you can savor delicious local cuisine prepared by your trekking team.

The final stretch leads you to the third pass, Abra Phuyupatamarca (3,700 m / 12,139 ft), where you’ll witness the extraordinary engineering of Inca stonework — terraces and pathways meticulously carved into the steep Andean slopes to navigate the complex terrain.

Your day concludes at Phuyupatamarca, aptly named the “Town Above the Clouds.” This remarkable archaeological site is one of the best-preserved along the trail and offers sweeping views of the Urubamba River valley, Machu Picchu Mountain, and the surrounding snow-capped peaks. After a guided tour of the ruins, your porters will have set up camp, where you’ll spend the night surrounded by the stunning Andean landscape, resting up for the final days ahead.

Today is the highlight of your journey—the moment to explore the magnificent Machu Picchu, one of the New Seven Wonders of the World and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. After a restful night and an early breakfast at your hotel in Aguas Calientes, you’ll board one of the first buses to the iconic Machu Picchu sanctuary. The scenic 25-minute ride up the mountain sets the stage for a truly unforgettable experience.

Upon arrival, your expert guide will lead you on a detailed two-hour tour of the most important sites along Circuit 3, revealing the fascinating history, intricate architecture, and cultural significance of this ancient Inca citadel. If you’ve secured tickets to hike Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain, you’ll have the opportunity to embark on those optional excursions independently after the guided tour.

After soaking in the breathtaking views and marveling at the ruins, you’ll take the bus back down to Aguas Calientes. Here, you can enjoy a delicious lunch at a local restaurant (not included), or take some time to explore the town, shop for souvenirs, or relax at the hot springs before your departure.

In the afternoon, you’ll board the comfortable Expedition Train, traveling for approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes along the stunning Urubamba River through the Sacred Valley. The journey offers spectacular views of narrow canyons, whitewater rapids, and iconic sites such as Wiñay Wayna visible from the train. Upon reaching Ollantaytambo, a private vehicle will be waiting to transfer you back to your hotel in Cusco, where you can expect to arrive by early evening, completing your incredible adventure.