Since arriving in Peru for the first time in 2005, we have been intrigued by the Incan culture and how they viewed the world around them. Peru has a rich culture, unique mountain viewing and diverse history that leaves you in wonder at how people lived during the time of the Incas. Everything is open to interpretation as there is nothing written down from the time of the Inca’s, so let your mind wonder as you explore this unique destination.
We are trekking specialists, running around 15 treks a year along the famous Inca Trail to Machu Picchu. We run treks along the traditional 4 day Inca trail, classic 5 day Inca Trail and 6 day Salkantay Inca Trail to Machu Picchu. However, our favorite itinerary to follow is the Classic 5 Day trek, and below will explain why! CONTACT US for our upcoming trip dates.
1). Time on the Trail
The Classic 5 day trek, follows the exact same route as the famous 4 Day Traditional trek to Machu Picchu. You camp in different locations along the trail, thus giving more time to explore the key and important sites of the Inca trail.
2). Spreading out the Daily Distances
The Classic 5 Day trek spreads out the distances that need to be covered each day. The days are still long and challenging, however, they are easier to hike than the 4 Day Traditional route. You can explore the less visited Incan site of Llactapata and camp the second night at Llullucha-pampa, below the high pass at 4,215m/ 13,829 feet. You still need to come physically prepared for this trek, just as you would for the 4 Day option, however, it does spread the distances out in a nice way!
3). Better Campsites
The Classic 5 Day trek to Machu Picchu gives you the opportunity to camp in Phuyupatamarka at 3,630m/ 11,906 feet. This campsite is the best and in our opinion, most beautiful, camp site on the trail. Positioned on a ridge, high above Machu Picchu mountain this campsite has world class sunsets and sunrises. Phuyupatamarca means town over the clouds. From above, you will observe a sophisticated sacred complex made up of water fountains with solid foundations. Also, you will see impressive views of the Urubamba River valley.
4). More Time in Sites
The Classic 5 Day trek gives you more time to explore WinayWayna at 2,700m/ 8,856 feet. This is one of our favorite Incan sites on the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu. Therefore, this is one of the main reasons to pick this option. WinayWayna consists of an upper and lower housing complexes. These complexes are connected by a staircase and fountain structures. Likewise, this site has stunning agricultural terraces, which you absolutely need to explore. WinayWayna is a short walk from the campsite which is where you would stay on the 4 day Inca Trail trek. Overall, on the Classic 5 Day trek, you get more time in each site along the trail.
5). Two Visits to Machu Picchu
The Classic 5 Day Inca trail gives you the chance to visit Machu Picchu twice. Unlike the Traditional 4 Day trek, where you only have one visit. After dropping down into Winya Winya and exploring this very beautiful site you will continue down into Machu Picchu, through the famous Sun Gate. You will have plenty of time to take pictures and enjoy the lost city of the Incas. Then, you will drop down to Aguas Calientes for a shower, nice dinner and sleep in a bed. The following morning you will head back up to Machu Picchu for your official tour. With new time restrictions in Machu Picchu city, this is going to be the best way for you to maximize your time exploring and soaking up the lost city.
Contact Ian Taylor Trekking
Join one of our Ian Taylor Trekking trips to Machu Picchu! We have many different options for itineraries, however the Classic 5 Day Inca Trail trip is our favorite! If you have any questions at all, or if you are ready to start the booking process, GET IN TOUCH today!