Vilcabamba Trek to Machu Picchu 5 days

What is included Vilcanota Trek

The 5-Day Vilcabamba to Machu Picchu Trek includes:

• Pre-departure briefing.
• Transfer from your accommodation in Cusco’s historic center.
• Return to your accommodation (historic center of the city).
• Professional local guide in English, Spanish, and other languages.
• Round-trip bus from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu.
• Entrance ticket to Vilcabamba.
• Entrance ticket to Machu Picchu.
• Voyager or Expedition class train from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo.
• Mule support for carrying all camping equipment.
• Camping gear: dining tents, kitchen tents, tables, chairs, and cooking equipment.
• Duffel bag with a capacity of up to 8 kg (17 lb) for your personal items.
• First aid kit and oxygen supply.
• 3 nights camping in comfortable North Face or Hard Wear tents.
• 1 night in a 3-star hotel in Aguas Calientes.
• Sleeping pad, rain poncho, hand towels.
• Experienced chef preparing meals: breakfasts, lunches, and dinners.
• All meals on the trek, except for the final day’s dinner.
• Wake-up tea every morning.
• Afternoon tea.
• Daily water and snacks.

5-Day Vilcabamba to Machu Picchu Trek Does Not Include:

• Final day’s dinner in Aguas Calientes.
• Sleeping bag, inflatable mattress, trekking poles.
• Travel insurance (recommended).
• Tips.
• Entrance to Huayna Picchu Mountain.
• Entrance to Machu Picchu Mountain.
• Additional costs or delays beyond our control.

What to bring for the Vilcanota Trek

Packing List for the 5-Day Vilcabamba to Machu Picchu Trek

The 5-day Vilcabamba trek is one of the most notable routes to Machu Picchu, covering high-altitude regions and tropical rainforest with significant variations in terrain and climate. Due to unpredictable weather, be prepared for rain at any time. Only bring essential items for the trek and leave the rest in Cusco. You will be provided with a duffel bag with a capacity of 8 kg, including your sleeping bag and inflatable mattress. Additionally, you should carry a daypack with the necessary daily items, with a recommended weight between 5 and 6 kg to ensure efficiency and comfort.

What to Bring in Your Daypack:

• Original Passport: Keep your passport in a secure place, preferably in a waterproof cover or sealed plastic bag.

• Sunscreen: You will be exposed to the sun while walking outdoors. Make sure to bring suitable sunscreen or buy it in Cusco before departure.

• Toilet Paper: Bathrooms at stops may charge for use, so carry small change and your own toilet paper.

• Insect Repellent: After the second day, you will be walking through the rainforest. It's crucial to bring repellent and wear long-sleeve clothing to avoid bites.

• Waterproof Jacket and Warm Jacket: Mornings will be very cold, so it's important to have warm clothing. As you warm up, you can remove layers and store them in your daypack.

• Energy Snacks: Although meals and snacks are included, it's advisable to bring energy bars, granola, chocolate, or sweets to replenish your energy during long walks.

• Water Bottle: Carry a reusable container of at least 2 liters, such as a CamelBak. Water will be provided starting from the first lunch.

• Headlamp or Flashlight: Essential for moving around the campsite and using bathrooms at night. Headlamps are useful as they keep your hands free.

• Hat and Gloves: Bring a hat to protect yourself from the sun during the day and something warmer for the night. Gloves are also useful in the morning.

• Sunglasses: Protect your eyes from intense sunlight at high altitudes.

• Extra Money: It is recommended to carry about 600 soles (approximately 200 USD) for emergencies. This is useful for bathrooms, souvenirs, snacks, and tips.

• Personal Medications: Bring band-aids, altitude sickness medication (Diamox), Pepto Bismol, ibuprofen, Imodium, motion sickness medications, and feminine hygiene products.

• Camera or Mobile Phone: Don’t forget something to capture the incredible views.

What to Bring in Your Duffel Bag:

• Sleeping Bag: Temperatures can drop below 0°C at night. Ensure you bring a sleeping bag suitable for temperatures down to -10°C, or rent one.

• Hiking Boots: It is highly recommended to use trekking boots rather than sports shoes.

• Sandals: Useful for resting at the campsite after a long walk.

• Wool Socks (5 pairs): Thick and comfortable socks for hiking.

• Lightweight Socks (4 pairs): For use after hiking.

• Underwear (5 pairs): Bring enough in case they get wet.

• Breathable Hiking Pants (2 or 3 pairs): Leggings are also a comfortable option.

• Sports Pants: Ideal for relaxing in the afternoons and mornings.

• Long-Sleeve Shirts: Preferable for protection from the sun and cold.

• Wet Wipes, Tissues, and a Small Towel.

• Swimsuit: Optional, in case you decide to visit the hot springs in Aguas Calientes.

• Trekking Poles: You can bring your own or rent a pair.

• Air Mattress: Foam mattresses are provided, but you can bring or rent an air mattress for added comfort.

Vilcanota Trek Travel Information

Acclimatization Time Needed Before the Trek

It’s crucial to be well-acclimated to the altitude before undertaking a trek. We recommend arriving in Cusco at least two days before the trek begins to help you acclimate and avoid potential altitude sickness. If you have already been in another high-altitude area in Peru before arriving in Cusco, we still recommend spending a full day in Cusco to rest, recover from your journey, and enjoy the sights.

Travel to Cusco

Cusco's airport currently only operates domestic flights. All international passengers must land in Lima and pass through customs. It's important to note that due to Cusco’s high altitude, flights may experience delays or cancellations. Additionally, any weather changes could disrupt air traffic. If you prefer an overland alternative, buses are a viable option, though the journey can be long, especially from Lima. Buses from Lima can take approximately 20 hours to reach Cusco.

Pickups

Ausangate Adventure can pick you up from your hotel, provided it is located in Cusco's Historic Center. During the briefing, your guide will coordinate the meeting time, but be aware that wait times may vary between 30 and 45 minutes due to local traffic. Cusco has narrow and cobblestoned streets, which can make access to some hotels and Airbnbs difficult. Some locations may be in areas without vehicular access or on steep inclines, complicating luggage transportation. It is advisable to book accommodation with easy access to facilitate transport.

Luggage Storage

You can securely leave any extra luggage in Cusco, either at your hotel or with us at Ausangate Adventure during your trek. We will store your luggage in the morning before your trek begins and return it to you once you return to Cusco. It’s important to ensure that your bags are clearly labeled for easy identification.

Altitude Sickness

To avoid altitude sickness on the Vilcabamba to Machu Picchu trek, acclimate by spending a few days in Cusco before the trek. Stay well-hydrated and avoid alcohol and caffeine, which can dehydrate you. Eat light, frequent meals with a focus on carbohydrate-rich foods, and avoid heavy meals. Walk slowly, take frequent breaks, and avoid intense physical exertion initially. Consult your doctor about preventive medications like acetazolamide (Diamox). Use natural remedies such as chewing coca leaves or drinking coca tea, which are traditional practices in the Andes. Be aware of altitude sickness symptoms, including headaches, nausea, and dizziness; if you experience severe symptoms like difficulty breathing, seek medical help. Carry a first aid kit and plan your itinerary with flexibility to allow for additional acclimatization time if needed. Following these tips will improve your chances of enjoying a safe and pleasant trek.

Weather

The weather during the Vilcabamba trek varies and depends greatly on the time of year. Generally, it is recommended to undertake the trek during the dry season, from May to September. During these months, the days are usually sunny and the nights cool, providing ideal trekking conditions. However, it is important to bring layers of clothing as temperatures can vary significantly throughout the day. In the high jungle, the climate is warmer and more humid, while at higher elevations it can be cold, especially at night.

If you choose to trek during the wet season (October to April), be prepared for occasional rain and slipperier trails. It is advisable to bring good waterproof gear and suitable footwear for these conditions. Despite the rain, the vegetation is more lush during this time, which can offer even more impressive landscapes.

First Aid

Each Ausangate Adventure guide is trained in first aid. They will carry a first aid kit for basic medical situations and oxygen during the trek. They will take good care of you. In case something unexpected happens and you feel unable to complete the trek, they will determine the safest and quickest way to get you off the trail and to a clinic in Cusco.

Food

All meals and snacks will be provided throughout the trek, up to the last lunch on the trek. We understand you may be concerned about the quality of our food. Each meal is prepared by a chef in a small tent using a portable stove. Our clients are consistently satisfied with the excellence of our dishes. Each chef is professionally trained to prepare the best breakfasts, lunches, dinners, and snacks. At the end of each trekking day, a delicious dinner awaits you, cooked in the heart of the Andes, which will surely exceed your expectations about food on the trek.

We use fresh ingredients sourced from the Cusco market and transported by pack horses led by muleteers. Our chefs then prepare these ingredients to ensure each dish is fresh, healthy, and delicious.

Special Dietary Needs

Do you have special dietary needs? Don’t worry, we are prepared to accommodate vegetarians, vegans, and those with food allergies.

Water

Ausangate Adventure will ensure water is available at each meal. The water will be boiled, purified, and cooled before serving to ensure it is safe to drink. However, for the first morning of the trek, you must provide your own water due to the preparation process. It is recommended to start the trek with 2-3 liters of water, so make sure to have a sufficiently sized bottle or CamelBak to store it.

Environmental Impact

At Ausangate Adventure, we utilize biodegradable soap and make sure to transport all our waste back to Cusco. Our muleteers are trained to keep the trails clean and collect waste. We are committed to preserving and conserving our environment by managing waste responsibly. We adopt practices to minimize our environmental impact.

Protests and Strikes

Protests and strikes are common in Peru and can affect our travel plans. Roads may be blocked and trains may stop. However, we will do everything possible to maintain your original itinerary, even if it means leaving a night earlier. In some cases, travel may be canceled. If there are changes, our operations team will contact you. Your safety is our top priority, and we will take the best measures to protect you in any unforeseen situation.

Lost Items

Please take special care of your belongings and ensure you collect all your items when leaving our vehicles, campsites, or restaurants. You are solely responsible for your personal items during the trek.

Price for the Vilcanota Trek

Pricing:

• $800 per person for groups of 6 or more.
• $950 per person for groups of 4.
• $1200 per person for groups of 2.

Student Discount:

• $25 discount for students.

The student discount applies to anyone with a valid university student ID at the time of booking. We will need a copy of the ID with the reservation. For those booking for children 17 years old or younger, we require a copy of their passport at the time of booking. Please send all documentation to info@ausangateadventure.com.

Vilcanota Trek 5 days FAQs

What is the best time to undertake the Vilcabamba to Machu Picchu trek?

The best time to do this trek is during the dry season, which runs from May to September. During these months, the weather is more stable, with sunny days and cool nights. This allows you to fully enjoy the landscapes and avoid the heavy rains that can occur during the wet season.

What is the difficulty level of the trek?

The Vilcabamba to Machu Picchu trek is considered moderate to difficult. It requires good physical condition and endurance, as it involves steep ascents, steep descents, and long days of hiking. It is important to have prior trekking experience and to be well-acclimated to the altitude.

How long is the trek?

The typical duration of the Vilcabamba to Machu Picchu trek is 5 to 7 days, depending on the route and itinerary chosen.

What can I expect to see during the trek?

During the trek, you can anticipate witnessing breathtaking landscapes, including snow-capped mountains, verdant valleys, pristine rivers, and ancient Inca ruins. Additionally, you will have the opportunity to visit local communities and learn about their culture.

Do I need to hire a guide for the trek?

Yes, it is highly recommended to hire a licensed local guide. A guide will provide valuable information about the history, culture, and flora and fauna of the region. They will also take care of organizing the camp, food, and necessary permits.

What about food during the trek?

Food during the trek is prepared by the cooking team and is typically varied and nutritious. Meals include breakfasts, lunches, and dinners, as well as snacks for the trail. It is important to inform your tour operator about any dietary restrictions you may have.

What about bathrooms during the trek?

During the trek, you will have access to basic toilets at the campsites. In some places, you may need to use eco-toilets.

What if I get sick during the trek?

If you get sick during the trek, the guide and support team will provide the necessary assistance. It is important to inform the guide immediately about any discomfort you experience.