Vilcabamba Peru Trek – 5 Days
Overview
The Vilcabamba Trek is one of the least traveled and most historically significant routes to Machu Picchu, passing through remote Inca sites such as Vitcos and Ñusta Hisp’ana. This trek takes you deep into the last refuge of the Incas, across cloud forests, rivers, and traditional Andean communities. It is a perfect combination of nature, archaeology, and cultural immersion.
Itinerary
Day 1: Cusco – Huancacalle – Vitcos – Rosaspata
- Early morning departure from Cusco towards Huancacalle.
- Visit Inca sites of Vitcos and Ñusta Hisp’ana.
- Short hike to Rosaspata village.
- Camping and dinner at Rosaspata (approx. 3,150 m).
Day 2: Rosaspata – Racachaca
- Breakfast and start uphill trek.
- Walk through high mountain passes and remote valleys.
- Camping at Racachaca (approx. 3,600 m).
Day 3: Racachaca – Yanama
- Today includes crossing several high passes with panoramic views.
- Pass waterfalls, glacial streams, and wildlife.
- Camp at Yanama village (approx. 3,800 m).
Day 4: Yanama – Lucmabamba – Aguas Calientes
- Morning transport to Lucmabamba.
- Walk part of the original Inca Trail to Llactapata for a view of Machu Picchu.
- Continue to Hidroeléctrica and train to Aguas Calientes.
- Hotel overnight in Aguas Calientes.
Day 5: Machu Picchu – Return to Cusco
- Early bus to Machu Picchu for sunrise visit.
- Guided tour of Machu Picchu (2 hours approx).
- Optional hike to Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain (advance booking).
- Return train to Ollantaytambo and transport to Cusco.
Included
- Pre-trek briefing
- Hotel pick-up and private transport
- Professional bilingual guide
- Entrance fees to Inca sites
- Camping equipment (tent, mattress, dining tent, etc.)
- Cook and cooking equipment
- Meals during trek (4B, 4L, 4D)
- Horses/mules to carry equipment
- Train ticket from Hidroeléctrica to Aguas Calientes
- 1 night hotel in Aguas Calientes
- Entrance ticket to Machu Picchu
- Bus up and down to Machu Picchu
- Return train to Ollantaytambo and private transfer to Cusco
- First aid kit and oxygen bottle
Not Included
- Sleeping bag (available for rent)
- Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain tickets
- Lunch and dinner on day 5
- Snacks and bottled water
- Tips for guide and staff
- Travel insurance
What you need to Know?
- Spend 2 days in Cusco to acclimatize
- Bring warm clothes and rain gear
- Use comfortable hiking boots
- Pack sunscreen, hat, and insect repellent
- Carry reusable bottle and water purification tablets
- Leave valuables in hotel storage in Cusco
Frequently Asked Questions
It is considered moderate to challenging due to altitude and length. Previous trekking experience is helpful but not mandatory.
Only in Aguas Calientes. Other nights involve camping in remote areas without such facilities.
Not directly, but you can request custom packages that combine multiple routes if you have extra time.
The dry season: April to October. Avoid heavy rain months from January to March.
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