Experience the rare pairing of rugged Inca Trail hiking and a luxury hotel night at Aguas Calientes. This five-day itinerary covers high Andean passes, cloud forests, and the sunrise approach to Machu Picchu with porter-supported camping and one celebratory glamping night.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
Dawn breaks over thin mountain air as your group files out of the campsite, headlamps fading while cloud forest swallows the trail behind you. The path climbs in ribbon-like switchbacks, Andes peaks puncturing the horizon, and the trail’s stonework—hand-laid centuries ago—clicks under your boots. By late afternoon you’ll swap a cold-night camp for a five-star hotel at Aguas Calientes, a rare mix of raw trailwork and cultivated comfort.
Difficulty
challenging
Duration
5 days (approx. 45–50 km of hiking)
Fitness Level
Good to excellent cardiovascular fitness; prior multi-day hiking above 3,000 m is strongly recommended
Wildlife
History
The Inca Trail formed part of a larger imperial road system connecting Cusco to ceremonial centers; modern access is limited to conserve archaeological remains.
Conservation
Permits limit daily hikers; operators must follow strict waste and campsite rules—support companies that implement porter welfare standards and Leave No Trace practices.
Reserve your spot on the 5 Days Glamping and Trekking to Machu Picchu on the Inca Trail today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Acclimatize in Cusco
Spend 48–72 hours in Cusco before the trail to reduce altitude sickness risk and avoid pushing hard on day one.
Pack light—carry a daypack
Porters handle main luggage; limit your load to essentials (water, layers, snacks, camera) to preserve energy on steep passes.
Footwear and poles
Sturdy, broken-in hiking boots and adjustable trekking poles make steep descents (stone staircases) far easier on knees.
Hydration and sun protection
Despite cool mornings the sun is strong—drink frequently and use SPF 30+ and a brimmed hat to avoid sunburn and dehydration.
Sturdy hiking boots
Support and traction for long days on stone steps and uneven alpine terrain.
Layered insulation (base, fleece, down jacket)
Temperatures swing from near-freezing at camps to warm in the cloud forest—layers keep you comfortable.
Trekking poles
Reduces impact on knees on long descents and improves balance on wet stonework.
Water reservoir or bottles (2–3 L) with purification tablets
Reliable access to clean water is crucial at altitude; purification adds safety on long trail days.