This itinerary expands on the classic Inca Trail by adding an extra day to explore the route at a more gradual pace. Designed for travelers who want a deeper connection with the landscape and its archaeological sites, this version reduces daily intensity while increasing time spent within the Inca corridor.
Over five days, you will follow the original stone paths through mountain passes, cloud forests, and hidden ruins, arriving at Machu Picchu through the Sun Gate with a stronger sense of progression and context.
The journey begins with an early departure from Cusco toward Km 82, the official starting point of the Inca Trail. The trail follows the Urubamba River through open valleys, passing small archaeological remains and agricultural terraces.
The pace is relaxed, allowing time to settle into the rhythm of the trek.
The second day focuses on the gradual ascent toward Dead Woman’s Pass (Warmiwañusca), the highest point of the trek at 4,215 meters.
With a slower pacing strategy, the climb becomes more manageable, allowing time to adjust to altitude while taking in the changing landscape.
After reaching the pass, the descent leads into the Pacaymayo valley.
This day introduces a higher concentration of archaeological sites connected by original Inca pathways.
You will visit Runkurakay before ascending to the second pass, followed by exploration of Phuyupatamarca, often described as “the city above the clouds.”
The extended itinerary allows more time to explore these sites without rushing.
The trail transitions into a more humid environment as it descends through the cloud forest. Vegetation becomes denser, and the landscape shifts toward a greener, subtropical setting.
The highlight of the day is Wiñay Wayna, one of the most impressive sites along the entire route, featuring terraces and ceremonial structures built into the mountainside.
The final day begins before sunrise. A short hike leads to the Sun Gate (Inti Punku), where the first panoramic view of Machu Picchu appears as the morning light reaches the citadel.
Arriving this way offers a gradual and meaningful entrance into the site — the culmination of the entire journey.
After a guided tour of Machu Picchu, you return to Aguas Calientes and travel back to Cusco by train.
Transportation & Logistics
Access & Discovery
Accommodations & Mountain Dining
Porterage & Safety
This trek is considered moderate, with a more gradual pace compared to the 4-day version.
You’ll still cross Dead Woman’s Pass (4,215 m / 13,828 ft), but the itinerary includes shorter hiking days and additional time for rest and recovery.
No technical experience is required, but a good level of fitness and some hiking experience will help you enjoy the journey more comfortably.
Even with a more relaxed pace, you’ll be trekking through varied conditions:
Your main duffel is carried by porters, so you’ll only carry what you need during the day.
Groups are limited to a maximum of 10 travelers.
This ensures a more personalized experience, better pacing on the trail, and consistent support from your guide throughout the trek.
Proper acclimatization is still essential, even with a slower itinerary.
We recommend spending at least 2 to 3 days in Cusco or the Sacred Valley before starting the trek. This will help your body adjust to the altitude and make the experience significantly more enjoyable.
Hydration, rest, and light meals beforehand are strongly recommended.
Yes, you can hire a private porter for additional comfort.
While porters already carry your main duffel, a private porter can help reduce the weight of your daypack or carry extra personal items.
This is a great option if you want to fully enjoy the trek at a more relaxed pace.
Yes, Sky Dome Camps operates fully legally and with all required permits, including authorization to operate on the Inca Trail.
As part of the Sam Travel Corporation, we comply with all official regulations for this protected route. Our experienced team focuses on safety, logistics, and delivering a high-quality, well-organized trekking experience.
YOUR ADVENTURE. OUR EXPERTISE.
Guest Reviews
Real experiences from travelers who slept under the Andean sky
I never thought I could sleep in a luxury bed while staring at the Milky Way through a transparent dome. The Salkantay glacier right in front of you at sunrise — absolutely unreal. Worth every penny.
SkyDomeCamps - Sky DomeWe did the full Salkantay Trek and stayed at the dome on night two. After a hard day of hiking, coming back to a real bed, hot shower and that view of the mountain? Nothing compares to that.
SkyDomeCamps - Salkantay TrekI have camped across Patagonia and Nepal but nothing matched this. The dome is warm, beautifully designed and the silence at 4,600m is something else entirely. I woke up at 3am just to stare at the stars.
SkyDomeCamps - Sky Dome
