Experience a smarter way to hike the Inca Trail with this carefully designed Sacred Valley & Inca Trail trek to Machu Picchu. This 5-day journey combines cultural exploration and high-altitude trekking, letting you enjoy the Andes while preparing your body for the challenge ahead.
Your adventure begins with a guided Sacred Valley tour, where visits to Pisac and Ollantaytambo provide an ideal setting for natural acclimatization before the trek. Unlike the standard 4-day Inca Trail, this itinerary improves comfort, reduces altitude challenges, and delivers a more complete Andean experience.
From there, continue along the legendary Inca Trail, following ancient stone paths through mountain passes, cloud forests, and exclusive archaeological sites. The journey culminates with your arrival at Machu Picchu through the Sun Gate, an unforgettable moment that defines one of the world’s most iconic treks.
Limited Inca Trail Permits — Book Before They Sell Out
Join a small group experience that combines the Sacred Valley and the iconic Inca Trail into one expertly designed journey.
Secure your permit today before availability is gone.
This isn’t just the Inca Trail. It’s the most complete and thoughtfully planned way to experience it.
The Sacred Valley & Inca Trail trek to Machu Picchu is a premium 5-day trip for travelers who want a deeper, better-acclimatized, and more rewarding experience of Peru’s most famous route. Instead of starting with the trek right away, this itinerary begins with cultural experiences in the Sacred Valley, giving your body time to adjust before you start hiking at high altitude.
This approach makes the journey more comfortable, helps you perform better, and lets you enjoy the experience even more.
This itinerary is for travelers who want more than a standard trek. It combines acclimatization, culture, and trekking into one smooth journey, offering a much better experience than the usual 4-day route.
This journey focuses on:
Your safety and comfort are our top priorities throughout the trip. This expedition is planned to handle high-altitude conditions with expert care and preparation.
Inca Trail permits are strictly limited by the Peruvian government and often sell out months in advance. We recommend booking 4 to 6 months in advance to secure your preferred dates. Feel free to Contact us.
Authentic | Trusted | Reliable | Safe | Community-Focussed | Smaller Groups
Your Sacred Valley tour starts with an 8:00 AM pick-up from your hotel in Cusco, followed by a drive through the valley. Along the way, your guide will stop for a moment to enjoy the incredible views.
First up is a visit to an Alpaca farm, where you’ll get to meet llamas, alpacas, vicuñas, and guanacos. Your guide, who knows a lot about these animals and the art of using their wool for traditional hand weaving, will share their insight.
Next, you go to the Pisac Inca site which is a remarkable archaeological site including agricultural terraces, religion space, and lovely views. Following, you'll enjoy a visit to the Pisac market, where you can have the opportunity to buy handmade textiles and crafts.
After visiting the market, you'll then travel to Urubamba for lunch, which will be at a restaurant before continuing to the Ollantaytambo Inca site. Referred clients for its phenomenal rock formations depicting the Inca god Viracocha, Ollantaytambo is known as the last living Inca city. Your guide will show you points of interest regarding the historical and cultural significance of this wonderful site.
The tour concludes with your arrival in Ollantaytambo town, where you will check-in to your hotel. After checking in, you'll have time to explore and enjoy the lovely town of Ollantaytambo, and the tour will finish around 4:00 PM.
Your journey on the Inca Trail begins with a pick-up at your hotel in Ollantaytambo at 6:30 AM. From there, you'll take a short drive to Km 82, which is the official start of the Inca Trail's trek to Machu Picchu.
At Km 82, you will meet the guide, the chef, and the porters and, after giving them your duffle bag, you'll be ready to start your trek - with just your daypack. Make sure you have your passport in hand, as it will need to be checked at the checkpoint.
Once you begin the trek, you'll enjoy some breathtaking mountain views, pass ancient ruins, and your guide will share interesting stories along the way. The pace will be relaxed, and the guide will break for snacks, take photos, and rest when appropriate.
Lunch is prepared by your chef and is served around 1:30 PM. After lunch, you will continue your hike to the first campsite to get a good nights sleep before the next day. Your first campsite will be at Huayllabamba (3,350 meters / 10,990 ft), and the hike is moderate and will help you get acclimatized to the altitude.
When you arrive at the campsite, your team will have your tent set up and warm water for washing. Once you've gotten settled, it will be time for tea and then dinner around 7:30 PM, then it's off to bed for the next day.
(Note: the camping location is subject to change between Huayllabamba or Ayapata depending on regulations and availability.)
On your second day on the Inca Trail, we’ll wake you up at 5:30 AM with a hot cup of coca tea brought right to your tent. Coca tea can help ease the effects of high altitude and gives you a boost for the day ahead.
After that, you’ll have time to organize your daypack and duffle bag before breakfast. We’ll provide snacks and water to keep you energized as you hike. The hike starts at 7:30 AM and takes us up through a beautiful valley filled with ancient trees like Queñas and Uncas, which grow only in this region.
As we climb higher into the Highland forest, you’ll notice unique plants that make this part of the trail special. After about four hours of hiking, we’ll reach Llulluchapampa, where our chef will have a tasty lunch ready for you. You’ll definitely deserve a break!
After lunch, we’ll start the two-hour climb to Dead Woman’s Pass, the highest point on the trail at 4,200 meters. The views from the top are amazing, so it’s a great time to take some photos!
Next, we’ll head down to our campsite at Pacaymayu Alto, which is at 3,650 meters. When we arrive, your tent will already be set up. We’ll have a small happy hour with hot drinks before dinner, which is served around 7:00 PM. After a busy day, most guests are ready to sleep by 8:30 PM.
Booking your 5-day Sacred Valley & Inca Trail to Machu Picchu with Qoricancha Expeditions ensures a seamless, organized, and worry-free adventure.
Pre-Trek Briefing
A detailed orientation the evening before your trek covers the itinerary, packing essentials, and tips to prepare you for the Inca Trail hike.
Expert English-Speaking Guide
Trek with certified guides who bring the history, culture, and landscapes of the Inca Trail to life.
Train Return to Cusco
Comfortable return journey on the Expedition tourist-class train from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo, then private transport to Cusco.
Meals During the Trek
Enjoy 5 breakfasts, 4 lunches, and 3 dinners prepared with fresh local ingredients, plus daily snacks. We accommodate dietary requirements with prior notice.
Bus Ticket (Machu Picchu to Aguas Calientes)
Bus transfer after your guided tour of Machu Picchu.
All Entry Fees & Permits
Includes permits for the Sacred Valley tour & Classic Inca Trail and Machu Picchu (Circuit 1 - 3), secured in advance.
Guided Tour of Machu Picchu
Explore the citadel with a professional guide and learn the history and significance of this world wonder.
Safety Equipment
An emergency oxygen tank and first aid kit are carried by your guide throughout the trek.
Private Transportation
All transfers included: Cusco hotel pickup, transport to the trailhead (KM 82), and return to Cusco.
Porter Service (7 kg included)
Personal porter to carry your duffel bag (up to 7 kg), so you can hike comfortably with a light daypack.
All Taxes Included
No hidden fees. Everything is included in the price.
What’s Not Included
Equipment Rentals (Optional)
Optional Upgrades
Be fully prepared for your journey through the Sacred Valley and Inca Trail to Machu Picchu with this complete packing guide. From must-have hiking gear to comfort essentials, this list ensures a successful and enjoyable 5-day adventure. Book your trek today with Qoricancha Expeditions and travel worry-free!
Trekking Backpack (Daypack): Lightweight (25–30L) to carry water, snacks, camera, and essentials during the hike.
Duffel Bag (For Porters): Provided by us. Keep under 7 kg (15 lbs). Porters will carry this, so you can hike light.
Trekking Poles: Highly recommended for support on steep terrain. Collapsible with rubber tips. Available for rent.
Sleeping Bag: Lightweight, rated for -10°C (14°F), essential for trail camping.
Moisture-Wicking Layers: Quick-dry shirts, pants, and underwear (merino wool or synthetic). Avoid cotton.
Warm Layer: Fleece or down jacket for chilly mornings and high altitudes like Dead Woman’s Pass.
Rain Gear: Waterproof jacket and poncho—weather changes quickly, especially in rainy season (Nov–Mar).
Hiking Boots: Waterproof, broken-in boots with ankle support. Crucial for rugged trail conditions.
Sun Protection Clothing: Wide-brim hat, UV-resistant clothing, sunglasses.
Gaiters: Optional during the rainy season to keep legs and boots dry.
Water Bottle (2–3L): Stay hydrated. Hydration systems like CamelBak are ideal.
Headlamp: With extra batteries for early mornings and nighttime use at camp.
Camera & Chargers: Bring a power bank or solar charger to keep devices ready for stunning photos.
Toiletries: Toilet paper, biodegradable soap, hand sanitizer. Campsites have basic facilities.
Sunscreen & Lip Balm: High SPF is a must at high elevations.
Snacks: High-energy options like trail mix, bars, or dried fruit.
First Aid Kit: Compact with band-aids, antiseptic wipes, pain relievers, and personal meds.
Altitude Medication: Consult your doctor about options like Diamox. Some parts of the trek go above 4,000 m.
Insect Repellent: Useful in cloud forests and lower altitudes.
Passport: Original passport is required and checked during the trek.
Notebook & Pen: Journal your adventure.
Travel Insurance: Strongly recommended; should include trekking at high altitude.
Binoculars: Great for spotting wildlife and taking in Sacred Valley scenery.
With this comprehensive Sacred Valley + Inca Trail packing list, you’ll be fully equipped for an unforgettable journey through Peru. From Pisac to Machu Picchu, pack smart and travel with confidence.
Ready to go? Book your Inca Trail adventure today with Qoricancha Expeditions and discover the magic of the Andes!
$955.00 USD per person
(Minimum 2 People)
Enjoy this incredible 5-day Sacred Valley + Inca Trail Trek to Machu Picchu adventure with a small group. Ideal for travelers seeking a shared experience at a great value.
Enhance your journey with a fully personalized private tour designed specifically for your group. Whether you prefer scenic hikes, immersive sightseeing, or a bit of both, we tailor every detail to match your interests and fitness level.
Private Tour Pricing:
For a deeper, more flexible experience, opt for a private tour led by expert guides and curated just for you.
ES