Name: Premium Inca Trail to Machu Picchu: Trek 5 Days Cusco, Peru
Brand: Peru by Locals
Price: 1150 USD
Availability: InStock
Rating: 5 (2843 reviews)

Overview

Experience the Inca Trail like never before with our Premium Inca Trail 5 Days, a high-end and carefully designed alternative to the Classic Inca Trail. This exclusive itinerary offers four full days of trekking and a relaxing overnight stay in a comfortable hotel before visiting Machu Picchu on Day 5. By choosing this upgraded version of the Inca Trail, you access quieter sections of the route, avoid large crowds, and enjoy more time to explore ancient Inca sites.

One of the major highlights of this premium trek is the overnight stay at Phuyupatamarca, one of the most stunning and remote campsites on the entire Inca Trail—accessible only to travelers on this special route. Your final night is spent in Aguas Calientes, where you can rest in a hotel and enjoy a gourmet dinner at the town’s top-rated restaurant, Indio Feliz.

This itinerary allows you to experience Machu Picchu twice:

First, during an unforgettable late-afternoon visit before sunset.
Second, with an early-morning guided tour as the sun rises over the Andes.

This double entry grants you exceptional photo opportunities and a deeper understanding of the most important Inca sanctuary.

All campsites are hand-selected for their beauty, tranquility, and panoramic views. Far from the city lights, the Andean night sky offers an extraordinary display of stars—a magical experience for any nature lover. Our Premium Inca Trail package includes top-quality camping equipment, exceptional service, and a team of highly trained porters ensuring your safety and comfort throughout the trek.

Our chefs are renowned for preparing some of the best mountain cuisine in Peru, creating fresh and delicious meals at every campsite. From logistics to permits, transportation, transfers, and tickets, we take care of everything, making this a stress-free, all-inclusive Inca Trail adventure.

The Premium Inca Trail 5 Days includes demanding ascents to mountain passes above 4,000m. For this reason, we classify it as a Challenging trek, ideal for travelers with good fitness levels and previous hiking experience. This luxury trekking experience is perfect for couples, families, friends, and private groups looking for a unique and unforgettable journey to Machu Picchu.

Key Highlights of the Premium Inca Trail 5 Days

Professional local guides who have completed the Inca Trail over 500 times and guided Machu Picchu more than 700 times
Premium camping gear designed for maximum comfort
Gourmet Peruvian cuisine prepared by expert mountain chefs
Follow the original Inca Trail and visit all major archaeological sites along the route
Enter Machu Picchu through the iconic Sun Gate (Inti Punku)
Fully inclusive service — all logistics handled from start to finish
Hotel night in Aguas Calientes before your Machu Picchu sunrise tour
Enjoy a scenic return journey to Cusco aboard the Vistadome train

Details

Type of tour: Historical, guided trip, train ride, trekking, camping, hotel based.
Distance covered: 45 km (28 miles)
Duration: 5 days / 4 nights (3nights campoing ang 1 night hotel)
Lowest elevation: 2400m (7,880 feet)
Highest elevation: 4200m (13,776 feet)
Level of difficulty 1 to 10: (10 being impossible): 7

Group Size

At Peru by Locals, we prioritize small group sizes to ensure a highly personalized trekking experience. Our groups typically range from 2 to 8 hikers, allowing for flexibility and meaningful interactions with the environment.

Imagine hiking silently along an isolated trail, observing wildlife, or exploring the pristine Andean wilderness. Doing this with 15–20 other travelers can disrupt the experience. Small groups let you connect with nature, enjoy tranquility, and have a more intimate adventure.

Accommodation

This trek includes 3 nights in tents and 1 night in a hotel, based on double occupancy. Solo travelers are welcome! We can either pair you with another guest or provide a private tent and single hotel room upon request. Our goal is to ensure your comfort throughout the journey.

Our Guides

Hold professional degrees and receive annual refresher training
Are trained by NOLS (National Outdoor Leadership School)
Are certified Wilderness First Responders, ensuring your health and safety on remote treks
Are dedicated to providing personalized service and attending to your every need

We invest heavily in our guides because they are the heart of every memorable trek.

Location & Departures

This trek begins in Cusco or the Sacred Valley, depending on your preference. International travelers typically fly first to Lima, Peru’s capital, and then connect to Velasco Astete Airport in Cusco, a domestic airport serving the region.

All hikes are operated exclusively by Peru by Locals, guaranteeing that your experience is consistent, safe, and expertly guided. We depart year-round, every day, with small groups averaging 2–8 people, allowing for a personalized and unforgettable Inca Trail adventure.

Booking Information

The Premium Inca Trail 5-Day Trek is highly popular and requires advance booking—ideally 6 months in advance. Our team is available 24/7 to answer questions and assist with reservations.

WhatsApp: +51 989585967
Email: info@perubylocals.com

Secure your place today and experience the best Inca Trail tour, fully tailored to your needs.

Itinerary

DAY 0: BRIEFING

At Peru by Locals, preparation is key for a safe and memorable adventure. On the day before your trek, your guide will meet you at your Cusco hotel for a comprehensive pre-trek briefing. You will review the itinerary, discuss the trail’s challenges, receive guidance on what to pack, and have the opportunity to ask questions. This ensures you start your Premium Inca Trail trek fully prepared and confident.

DAY 1: WARM-UP DAY – CUSCO TO WAYLLABAMBA

Your adventure begins with an early morning pickup from your hotel in Cusco. We drive through picturesque Andean villages to reach the official starting point of the Classic Inca Trail at Pisacucho (Km 82). Here, you will meet your trekking team, including porters and cooks, who will carry your equipment and prepare meals during the trek.

The hike starts along a trail surrounded by cacti and dry forest, offering spectacular views of Waqayhillca Mountain, the tallest peak in the Sacred Valley at 5,800 m / 19,030 ft. After approximately two hours of hiking, we pause for a scenic lunch along the trail.

During the final two hours of the day, the landscape gradually transforms into lush jungle, where you may spot the largest hummingbird species, the Patagona gigas, amidst the vibrant flora. We typically arrive at our first campsite by 4:00 PM, where our porters provide warm water for washing.

After freshening up, enjoy a relaxing Inca Trail happy hour with hot drinks, popcorn, and cookies, followed by a delicious dinner served at 7:00 PM. This evening sets the tone for an unforgettable trek along one of the world’s most iconic trails.

Distance covered: 12km (7.4 miles)
Hiking time: 6 to 7 hours
Lowest elevation: 2700m (8,858 feet)
Highest elevation: 3000 (10,168 feet)
Difficulty: Moderate

DAY 2: CHALLENGING DAY THROUGH DEAD WOMAN’S PASS – HUAYLLABAMABA TO PAQAYMAYU

Your day begins with an early wake-up call from one of our porters, who will serve you a fresh cup of coffee in your tent. You’ll also receive a bowl of warm water to freshen up before enjoying a hearty breakfast. The hike begins around 7:00 AM.

This day is challenging, as you ascend to the highest point on the Inca Trail, Warmiwañusqa (Dead Woman’s Pass) at 4,215 m / 13,776 ft—an elevation gain of nearly 4,000 ft. The trek takes approximately four hours, winding through stunning high-altitude landscapes with panoramic views of the surrounding Andes.

After reaching the summit, you will begin the descent to the Paqaymayo campsite (3,650 m / 11,975 ft), where you will spend the night. Temperatures at this campsite can drop to 0°C / 32°F during winter months (May to August), so warm clothing is essential.

Day 2 is physically demanding but incredibly rewarding, offering breathtaking scenery and a profound sense of accomplishment as you conquer the Inca Trail’s highest pass.

Distance covered: 11km (7 miles)
Hiking time: 7 to 8 hours
Lowest elevation: 3000 (10,168 feet)
Highest elevation: 4215m (13,776 feet)
Difficulty: Demanding

DAY 3: JUNGLE AND HISTORICAL DAY – PAQAYMAYU TO PHUYUPATAMARCA

Today is the longest stretch of the Premium Inca Trail, offering breathtaking views, numerous Inca archaeological sites, and native orchids along the route. The day begins with a 1.5-hour ascent to the second pass on the trail, Runkuraqay (3,950 m / 12,959 ft). Here, you can rest, take photos, and admire panoramic mountain scenery.

From Runkuraqay, we descend to explore the Inca ruins of Sayaqmarca, a fascinating site featuring ancient terraces and stone structures, before stopping for lunch along the trail.

After lunch, the hike continues for about 1.5 hours over rolling up-and-down paths to reach our next campsite, widely regarded as the most beautiful along the Premium Inca Trail. Nestled in a remote location, this campsite provides stunning vistas of the Andes and a peaceful environment for rest and relaxation.

This day combines adventure, history, and nature, making it one of the most memorable on your Premium Inca Trail to Machu Picchu.

Distance covered: 10km (6.2 miles)
Hiking time: 7 to 8 hours
Lowest elevation: 3650 (11,975 feet)
Highest elevation: 3950m (12,959 feet)
Difficulty: Moderate to demanding

DAY 4: DOWN TO MACHU PICCHU THROUGH SUNGATE

We will leave camp early after enjoying another gorgeous sunrise over the mountains. We then hike downhill for about three hours to Wiñayhuayna, the site with the most magnificent Inca ruins along the Inca Trail. Here we will have a guided tour of the site and the last lunch of the trek. After saying goodbye to our porters and chef, we begin our two-hour hike to Machu Picchu and will arrive before sunset. Once we get to Machu Picchu, we will have a chance to take great pictures because at this time most people have left the city already. This part of the journey truly completes the Machu Picchu Hiking Trip, offering a unique and peaceful experience of the ancient citadel. We will then take a bus down to Aguas Calientes, where we spend the night at a hotel and enjoy dinner together at a restaurant.

Distance covered: 12km (7.4 miles)
Hiking time: 7 to 8 hours
Lowest elevation: 2400 (7,874 feet)
Highest elevation: 3700m (12,139 feet)
Difficulty: Moderate

DAY 5: MACHU PICCHU TOUR

On this day you may want to have a very early wake-up in the hotel for taking one of the first buses to Machu Picchu and get the sunrise. You take an early bus up to Machu Picchu where you will have two and a half hours guided tour to different spots such as the Main viewpoint, main temple, terraces, granaries, stone quarry, and others since this Premium Inca Trail 5 Days package includes a full Machu Picchu permit that allows you to see all.

Around 1 pm we will get the scenic Vistadome train ride for about 1.5 hours to Ollantaytambo train station then be transfered in a car to be trasnported to Cusco for another 1.5 hours more.

Services

When you book the Premium Inca Trail 5-Day Trek with Peru by Locals, you receive a fully inclusive experience, carefully designed to ensure comfort, safety, and convenience throughout your journey:

Hotel Transfers: Pick-up and drop-off from your Cusco or Sacred Valley hotel.
24/7 Assistance: Full support from the moment you book via our WhatsApp +51 989585967.
Organic Meals: 5 breakfasts, 4 lunches, and 4 dinners prepared by our expert trekking chefs. On Day 5, after your Machu Picchu tour, lunch is at your leisure in Aguas Calientes, and dinner is flexible in Cusco upon return. Vegetarian and vegan options available.
Entrance Tickets: Full access to the Inca Trail and Machu Picchu, including all major areas of the citadel.
Porters: Carrying all camping gear including tents, chairs, tables, and food.
Personal Porter: Carries your personal belongings (up to 7 kg / 15.4 lbs), including your sleeping bag, sleeping pad, and clothes.
Duffel Bag: Provided at your pre-trek briefing for your personal items.
Boiled Drinking Water: Safe water available every day from natural mountain springs.
Professional Trekking Guides: Experts in history, Inca culture, flora, and fauna, certified Wilderness First Responders to ensure your safety.
Walkie-Talkies: Guides are in real-time communication with Machu Picchu Park authorities for emergencies.
First Aid Kit: Carried by your guide at all times.
Camping Gear: Includes sleeping tents, dining tents, kitchen tent, tables, chairs, and air mattresses.
Toilet Facilities: Toilet tent with seat; additional public toilets are available along the trail.
Transport at Machu Picchu: Bus tickets from Machu Picchu to Aguas Calientes.
Train Ride: Scenic Vistadome train from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo, then transfer to Cusco.
Accommodation: One night at Boutique Hatun Inti Hotel or similar in Aguas Calientes.

This all-inclusive package ensures that you can fully immerse yourself in the Premium Inca Trail experience, focusing on adventure, history, and nature without worrying about logistics.

While the Premium Inca Trail 5-Day Trek is fully inclusive, the following items are not included:

Sleeping Bag: Not included, but can be rented for US$ 20. All sleeping bags are thoroughly cleaned after each use.
Meals on Day 5: Lunch and dinner on your final day are not included, as you will have free time in Aguas Calientes and upon returning to Cusco to choose your preferred dining options.
Gratuities for Porters and Guides: Tips are not included. We recommend approximately 15% of the total trek cost for the entire team of porters and guides. Guidance on tipping procedures can be provided via email or WhatsApp.

This ensures transparency so you know exactly what to expect for your Premium Inca Trail adventure.

Packing list

Passport

Bring your original, current passport. If you have recently renewed it after booking, bring both your new passport and a copy of the old one (the one used for booking).
The information on your passport must match your Classic Inca Trail tickets.

Sleeping Bag

Recommended for temperatures as low as 5°F (-15°C).
Rental available through us for $20 if needed.

Footwear

Comfortable, broken-in hiking shoes with ankle support.
If your shoes are new, make sure to break them in before your trek.

Clothing

Warm down/fleece jacket: Wind-resistant and suitable for cold nights.
T-shirts: 3–4 lightweight, moisture-wicking shirts for hiking, evenings, and visiting Machu Picchu.
Socks: At least 3 pairs.
Sun hat: To protect from strong sun during the day.
Light trekking pants: Quick-drying, preferably zip-off for versatility.
Sleepwear: Warm long underwear or fleece. Gloves are recommended for cold nights.

Gear

Headlamp: Campsites are dark; essential for organizing gear or visiting the bathroom at night.
Trekking poles: Can reduce physical strain by up to 30%. Rentals available for $10 per pair for 4 days.
Water bottle: Machu Picchu National Park does not allow plastic bottles. Use a Nalgene bottle or CamelBak. Fill it before leaving Cusco; additional water is available during the trek.

Protection

Sunscreen: SPF 35+ recommended.
Sunglasses
Bug repellent: Mosquitoes are present year-round.

Electronics

Camera and spare batteries: Phones work well but battery drains faster at high altitudes.

Personal Items

Toiletries
Prescription medicines: Inform your trip leader about any medications.
Food restrictions: Add any allergies or dietary preferences in your booking form.
Book to read: Camps provide downtime. Recommended titles:
- Last Days of the Incas by Kim MacQuarrie
- Turn Right at Machu Picchu by Mark Adams

Important information

OFTEN ASKED QUESTIONS

Where Do I Meet the Team?

The day before the trek starts, your guide will meet you at your chosen hotel in Cusco at 5:30 pm for a pre-trek talk. We recommend booking a hotel in the downtown area of Cusco.

What Is the Terrain Like? How Challenging Is It?

The Inca Trail is considered moderate to challenging, covering approximately 45 km (28 miles) over uneven, rocky terrain with steep ascents, descents, and numerous steps.

Day 2 is the most demanding, featuring an elevation gain of 1,215 meters (4,000 feet) over 7 km (4.3 miles), reaching a maximum altitude of 4,215 meters (13,828 feet).

This trek is best suited for travelers with prior hiking experience or those in good physical condition. Proper preparation and acclimatization are highly recommended to fully enjoy the journey.

How Long Before Should I Book the Inca Trail?

Access to the Inca Trail is strictly regulated, and permits should be booked well in advance—especially during the busy season from April to August. From September to January, permits are generally more readily available. We recommend securing your spot for the high season before the end of December of the previous year.

The Peruvian Ministry of Culture limits daily access to the trail to 500 people, including tourists, guides, porters, and cooks. Over 60% of this number consists of staff and support personnel.

Permits for the Inca Trail can only be issued from 11 months of the Year and only February is reserved for trail maintenance. Permit availability is universal and applies to the trail itself—not individual tour operators—so all agencies have the same access.

What Is the Weather Like on the Inca Trail During the Year?

Weather on the Inca Trail is highly variable, so it’s important to pack for a range of conditions. The trek passes through ten distinct bio-zones, from high-altitude alpine regions to the lush high jungle.

Daytime temperatures: 18–25°C (65–77°F) on sunny days.
High-altitude conditions (Day 2): Temperatures can drop to 6°C (42°F) at the highest pass.
Machu Picchu area: More humid and warmer, averaging 23–25°C (73–77°F).

Cusco’s seasons:

Wet season: November to March
Dry season: March to October, with June and July being the coldest months

Proper clothing and preparation for changing conditions will help ensure a comfortable and enjoyable trek.

What Does My Porter Carry for Me? Will they be with me at all times?

What Does My Porter Carry? Will They Be With Me at All Times?

On the Inca Trail, you only need to carry a day pack with essentials such as your water bottle, rain gear, camera, and snacks.

Your porter will carry your additional gear, including a sleeping bag, sleeping pad, and extra clothing for the night, with a maximum weight of 8 kg (17 lbs). Porters will meet you at each campsite or designated stop, so you don’t need to carry heavy loads throughout the day.

What Happens if I Get Injured or Sick During the Trek?

our safety is our top priority. In case of illness or injury, our guides follow a strict emergency protocol and are equipped with first aid kits, oxygen, and radios for communication.

For serious medical situations, the nearest healthcare facilities are located in Ollantaytambo and Aguas Calientes.

If you are unable to continue the trek due to illness, a porter will escort you back to the start, and you can rejoin the group at Machu Picchu to complete your journey. Our Peru by Locals team will reach you out to help you on how to join the rest of teh group.

What Is the Electrical Situation?

There is no electricity at the campsites along the Inca Trail.
We recommend bringing:

A fully charged power bank
Extra camera batteries
A reliable headlamp (essential for nighttime use around camp)

Once you reach Aguas Calientes at the end of the trek, you’ll have full access to charging stations again

What Will I Eat on the Trek?

You’ll be amazed by how well you eat on the Inca Trail. Our trekking chef prepares fresh, organic meals every day using locally sourced ingredients—vegetables, fruits, grains, and Andean superfoods that fuel your adventure.

Breakfast
Expect a hearty start to your day with eggs, omelets, pancakes, fresh bread, cereals, oatmeal, and hot drinks. Perfect energy for the trail.

Lunch
Lunch is a nourishing combination of quinoa, pasta, vegetable soups, and a buffet-style main course featuring rice, potatoes, fresh salads (including avocado), and your choice of white or red meats.

Dinner
Dinner is similar to lunch—warm, filling, and delicious—often followed by a freshly prepared dessert.

Snacks
We also provide daily snacks like fruit and cookies, so you only need to bring a small amount of your own favorites if you wish.

Dietary Needs
We happily accommodate vegetarians, vegans, and other dietary requirements. Just let us know your preferences when you make your booking, and our chef will prepare customized meals for your journey.

You’ll be surprised by how well you eat at altitude—many travelers say our meals alone are worth the trek!

Should I Tip the Porters and Guides?

Tipping is optional, but most travelers choose to tip as a gesture of appreciation.

Our staff is paid fairly by law, but if you wish to tip:

Many groups collectively tip around 15% of the total trip cost, divided among the entire team.

You may tip whatever feels right for you.

How Many Days Should I Stay in Cusco Before the Trek to Acclimatize?

Altitude sickness is primarily caused by ascending to high elevations too quickly. With proper time, your body naturally adjusts to lower oxygen levels—a process called acclimatization—which typically takes one to three days at any given altitude.

Cusco sits at 3,400 m / 11,154 ft, so we highly recommend spending at least two full days in the city before starting the trek. This gives your body the best chance to adapt and significantly reduces the likelihood of altitude-related symptoms.

Some travelers also choose to take altitude medication. Many doctors recommend Diamox (Acetazolamide), which can help reduce headaches, fatigue, nausea, dizziness, and shortness of breath associated with rapid altitude gain. It can be especially helpful if you cannot ascend gradually.

To prevent altitude sickness, we strongly recommend:

Ascending slowly when possible
Resting for at least 24 hours at altitude before exertion
Keeping your first 1–2 days in Cusco easy and low-impact
Staying well hydrated
Avoiding alcohol on your first day

Important: Always consult your doctor about medications, contraindications, or side effects before taking anything for altitude.

Do I Need to Bring Money on the Trek?

Yes — we recommend bringing some cash with you on the trek. Along the route, particularly on the first day, you may find local families selling bottled water, snacks, Gatorade, or even a celebratory beer. Having some money on hand gives you flexibility.

You may also want cash for tipping your porters and guides at the end of the trek, should you choose to do so.

Keep in mind that the final lunch in Aguas Calientes is not included, so you’ll need money for your meal in town. We strongly suggest bringing Peruvian soles, as they are more widely accepted. You can exchange money easily at banks and exchange offices in Cusco before your trek.

Do I Need to Carry My Own Medicine or First Aid?

Your guide will carry a complete first-aid kit at all times during the trek. This includes basic pain relievers, bandages, blister treatment supplies, an oxygen tank, and medication for common digestive issues. If you need anything along the way, simply ask—your guide is trained to assist.

However, if you take specific prescription medications or have a pre-existing medical condition, you must bring your own medications and consult your doctor before the trek to ensure you’re fully prepared. We also recommend carrying any personal essentials you might need during the day in your daypack.

Can I Rent a Sleeping Bag From You? What Type Should I Bring?

Yes—our high-quality sleeping bags are rated for 5ºF / -15ºC and can be rented for $20. Request one at the time of booking.

If bringing your own, choose a down sleeping bag suitable for cold mountain nights.

How Big Will My Group Be?

We specialize in intimate trekking experiences, which is why most of our groups range from 2 to 8 travelers. Smaller groups allow your guide to give you truly personalized attention—whether you’re exploring Inca sites, observing orchids and hummingbirds, or diving into Andean history and culture along the trail.

Our maximum standard group size is 8 guests, ensuring a high-quality, comfortable, and enriching experience for everyone.

If you’re traveling with a larger private group—friends, family, or a special event—no worries. We can easily accommodate more than 8 people and will keep everyone together so you share the adventure as one unified group.

How Do I Get Water on the Trek?

We provide boiled, filtered drinking water from Day 2 onward.

For Day 1, please bring enough water (you can buy it before reaching the start of the trail).

We strongly encourage reusable bottles (Nalgene, CamelBak) to help keep the trail plastic-free.

Is there any age limit?

There is no official minimum or maximum age to hike the Inca Trail—anyone who is healthy, prepared, and motivated can take on the challenge. That said, this is a demanding trek with steep climbs, long descents, high altitude, and uneven stone steps. For this reason, a good level of physical fitness is essential, regardless of age.

Children, teenagers, adults, and even seniors regularly complete the Inca Trail successfully, as long as they:

Are accustomed to regular physical activity
Have prepared with some training beforehand
Have acclimatized properly to the altitude (we recommend at least 2 days in Cusco)

The Inca Trail is not a walk in the park—but with preparation, determination, and the right support team, it is absolutely achievable for most people.

If you’re unsure, we’re happy to advise based on your personal fitness, trekking experience, and any special considerations.

Why do I need to wake up so early on the last day when I trek the Classic Inca Trail?

Waking up early on the final day (around 3:30 am) is a long-standing part of the Classic Inca Trail experience. Although it may feel early, there are important logistical reasons behind it:

After packing your gear and enjoying your last breakfast on the trail, you’ll walk five minutes to the final checkpoint. This checkpoint does not open until 5:30 am, and all groups must line up and wait until the rangers allow trekkers to proceed toward the Sun Gate and Machu Picchu.

The reason for the early wake-up is that our porters must catch the only early train of the day from the valley below to return to Cusco with all expedition equipment. This schedule is set by railway regulations, so porters must leave camp very early to make it on time.

Your understanding and cooperation make it possible for our porters to travel safely and legally—and it ensures they return home to their families at a reasonable hour after days of hard work.

Despite the early start, the reward is unforgettable: arriving at the Sun Gate as the first light touches Machu Picchu.

What time do I get back to Cusco on the last day?

You will return to Cusco at approximately 5:00 pm.
If you require an earlier return, please inform us at the time of booking, as we must secure specific trains well in advance.

Should I have to book Huayna Picchu Mountain in advance?

Yes — Huayna Picchu permits sell out quickly, especially during the dry/high season from April to August. Only 400 permits are issued per day, divided into specific entry time slots, so securing your spot early is essential.

We recommend reserving your Huayna Picchu ticket 2–3 months in advance.
If you’d like us to check availability or add it to your Inca Trail itinerary, simply email us, and we’ll take care of everything.

What is the toilet situation on the Inca Trail like? Should I bring my toilet paper?

ou’ll have access to a clean, private portable toilet at every campsite, reserved exclusively for our group and maintained by our staff throughout the trek. This ensures far better hygiene and comfort compared to the public squat toilets available along the trail, which are often in poor condition.

As for toilet paper, yes—please bring your own. We recommend one roll per two people, but don’t worry if you run out. Your cook always carries extra emergency rolls, and you can ask for more at any time.

Do I need walking poles?

Yes, they are highly recommended.
Walking poles reduce up to 30% of the impact on your knees and help greatly on steep sections.

If you don’t have any, you can rent a pair from us for US$15 for the entire trek.

How big should my day backpack be?

A 30-liter daypack is the ideal size for the Classic Inca Trail. It gives you plenty of space for everything you’ll need during the day—water, rain gear, snacks, sunscreen, layers, camera, and any personal items—without feeling bulky or heavy.

Since your personal porter will carry up to 13 lbs / 6 kg of your additional gear (sleeping bag, sleeping pad, and night clothing), your daypack stays light and comfortable.

If you already own a backpack between 20 and 40 liters, it will work perfectly. The key is choosing one that fits well on your back, has padded shoulder straps, and ideally, a waist belt to distribute weight more evenly.

How big are the sleeping tents? How many people can sleep in?

We use 4-season tents designed for three people, but we accommodate:

2 people per tent for comfort (230 cm x 170 cm interior space)

Solo travelers may request a private tent—just email us in advance.

Is there any place to wash myself? Are there showers?

There are cold-water showers at the second and third campsites.
Each morning, we also provide a warm wash basin.
We recommend bringing wet wipes for added comfort.

Is there a phone signal?

There is a signal on day one until noon and on day four from lunch.

Can I pay the rest of the balance on the credit card, or does it have to be in cash?

We take the balance of the payment in cash, so you won’t need to pay extra fees. Of course, you can use a credit card, but you will just need to pay the VISA fees, which are usually over 4.5%.

On the day of your briefing, when your guide meets you, one of the representatives will also meet you to collect the rest of the balance for your trek.

Peruvian currency

The Peruvian sole is the currency of Peru and usually fluctuates between 3.3 to 3.8 Nuevo soles to 1 US Dollar.

Language

Spanish is the national language of Peru, and about 20% of Peruvians speak Quechua (Inca language). Our guides are fluent in Spanish and English.

Why Peru by Locals?

At Peru by Locals, we craft tailor-made treks and tours that revolve around you. Every experience is designed with your interests, travel style, and sense of adventure in mind. Our commitment is simple: world-class service, genuine local expertise, and unforgettable journeys across Peru.

A Truly Local, Highly Experienced Team

We are a locally owned travel company based in Cusco, Peru, built by guides and travel specialists with decades of first-hand experience in the Peruvian tourism sector.
Our entire team—management, guides, porters, and support staff—speak English, Spanish, and Quechua, the language of the Incas. This cultural knowledge enriches every moment of your adventure.

Expert Guides You Can Trust

Our guides are not only passionate storytellers but also highly trained professionals. They are certified in:

Wilderness First Aid & First Responder
Andean history, Inca archaeology & Peruvian culture
Trekking leadership & tourism management
Flora, fauna, and environmental stewardship

Your safety, comfort, and enrichment are our top priorities.

Ethical, Responsible & Community-Focused

We believe that responsible tourism changes lives. At Peru by Locals:

We honor and protect the environment and the ancient lands you explore.
We create sustainable jobs and empower local communities through fair labor practices.
We support porter families with initiatives such as tree planting, school supplies donations, and community development projects.
A portion of every tour funds our Porter Education Fund, which helps cover school costs for local children.

Travel with us and your adventure directly supports the people who make it possible.

Small Groups, Big Experiences

We specialize in small group adventures, typically between 2 and 8 travelers. Why?
Because small groups mean:

More personalized service
No waiting in long lines behind big groups
More flexibility to explore hidden gems off the beaten path
A richer connection with your guide, the culture, and the land

Whether you travel solo, with friends, as a couple, or with family, we welcome travelers of all ages, backgrounds, beliefs, and abilities. With Peru by Locals, there are no limits—only possibilities.

Uniquely Crafted Journeys

We design diverse itineraries from 1 to 15 days, including treks, cultural tours, photography journeys, food-focused experiences, and more. Every itinerary is handcrafted to ensure a seamless, worry-free trip from start to finish.

With Peru by Locals, you don’t just visit Peru—you experience it deeply, authentically, and meaningfully. We guarantee the adventure of a lifetime.

Price

Best Seller

Premium Inca Trail to Machu Picchu: Trek 5 Days Cusco, Peru

Trek the stunning Inca Trail 5 Days to Machu Picchu. Explore Incan history, lush landscapes, and enjoy a unique camping experience. Join us now!

Product Brand: Peru by Locals

Product Currency: USD

Product Price: 1150

Product In Stock: InStock

Editor's Rating:
5

GROUP SERVICE

Our tour groups are very important, we run tours from 2 to 8 people usually per group and we open any tour dates with 2 guests, this service is considered semi-private for personalized experiences so, you can take advantage of your valid time.

Accommodations

Costs are based in doublé bedroom occupancy and US dollars. For single room occupancy contact us to info@perubylocals.com or to our 24/7 number +51 989585967 (WhatsApp).

To asure your booking with us we will require 20% deposit pre-payment of the total cost and the outstanding remaining will be paid 30 days prior your trip.

Choosing this option

Once a date tour is opened with 2 guests, the travel date won’t be probably changed later.
This a great option to meet other travelers and hang out during the trip.
If for any reason one of you, the plans will or others can’t continue the tour for any reason the tours will go as planned from the beginning to the end.

PRIVATE SERVICE

Our private service is can be start from 1 person to any number you desire and you can choose your travel date.