5 Day Ancient Inca Trail to Machu Picchu Horseback Riding Trek

A Unique 5-Day Horseback Riding Trek from Cusco to Machu Picchu

This 5-day Ancient Inca Trail to Machu Picchu on horseback offers a rare chance to travel through Peru’s highlands in a way that combines adventure, culture, and scenery. Priced at $1,800 per person, the tour takes you from the Sacred Valley through rugged mountains, traditional villages, and Inca archaeological sites, culminating in the awe-inspiring ruins of Machu Picchu. Guided by knowledgeable experts, this trip is designed for travelers seeking an authentic, off-the-beaten-path experience that blends horseback riding with culture.

What we love most about this journey is how close you get to local life — spending a day helping villagers and participating in their daily activities feels like a genuine window into Andean living. Plus, the stunning views of snow-capped Veronica Mountain and the chance to gallop across endless pampas make this more than just a horseback trek—it’s a memorable, scenic adventure.

However, a consideration to keep in mind is the physical demand; moderate fitness is recommended since you’ll be horseback riding daily over varied terrain. This trip suits those who enjoy outdoor activity, cultural exchanges, and exceptional scenery, especially if you’re comfortable on a horse and eager to explore the Andes beyond typical tourist routes.

Key Points

• Authentic culture in traditional Andean villages with opportunities to help in the fields and learn local crafts.
• Spectacular scenery including red mountains, high passes, and views of Veronica Mountain.
• Inca archaeological sites like Ñaupa Iglesia, Ollantaytambo, and the Sun Gate provide a sense of history and purpose.
• Well-organized logistics, including private transport, train tickets, and camping gear, ensure smooth travel.
• Gourmet food on the trail featuring organic meals, and the chance to try local dishes.
• Small group size (max 8 travelers) for a more personalized experience.

Exploring the 5-Day Horseback Riding Trek to Machu Picchu

This tour is as much about the journey as the destination. It’s designed for travelers who want to see and feel Peru’s highlands in a tangible way — on horseback, with plenty of time to soak in the views and connect with local communities.

Day 1: Sacred Valley and Ñaupa Iglesia

Your adventure begins in the Sacred Valley, where you’ll be picked up from your accommodation and driven in private transport to the archaeological site of Ñaupa Iglesia. This site is a highlight for its mysterious Inca cross, carved with precision into massive stone, symbolizing the connection between the spiritual and physical worlds.

From here, you’ll visit the nearby village of Llama Pintayoq, home to mysterious pre-Inca paintings on rocks. After a brief exploration, you’ll set out on a wide trail along the Huaracondo River, crossing lush valleys and ancient ruins.

What makes this first day special is the quiet beauty of the landscape and the chance to walk or ride along paths less traveled, giving you a sense of connection to the land that the Incas once knew.

Day 2: Cultural Day in Chillipahua

Unlike many tours that skip local life, this journey dedicates an entire day to Chillipahua, a traditional Andean village. Here, you’ll participate in daily activities such as helping with farming, weaving, or preparing local remedies. Sharing a meal cooked over open fire is a true highlight, offering a taste of rural life in the Andes.

Travelers describe this as an “unforgettable day of culture,” and it’s easy to see why. You will learn about heirloom potatoes, traditional farming practices, and local language snippets, making this day stand out as a genuine experience rather than just sightseeing.

Day 3: High Passes and Scenic Ranchlands

After breakfast in Chillipahua, the adventure continues with a horseback ride through breathtaking landscapes. The highlight is crossing Accoccasa Pass at 4,425 meters (about 14,500 feet). The panoramic views of snow-capped peaks and dramatic red mountains are stunning; it’s an image you’ll carry long after the trip ends.

Descending into the Qenqo Mayu Valley, you’ll pass shepherds and highland communities, giving you a front-row seat to traditional mountain life. The landscape is a mosaic of pastures, Inca aqueducts, and native trees, providing both beauty and a sense of stepping back in time.

Day 4: Archaeological Highlights and the Road to Machu Picchu

Today is packed with archaeological sites. First up is the Ollantaytambo complex, including the famous Sun Temple and the mysterious Intiwatana (Sun Dial). Riding along trails that have been used for centuries, you’ll see the strategic placement of Inca engineering, designed for astronomical observations and agricultural planning.

From Ollantaytambo, the journey continues on horseback toward Cachicata and across the Vilcanota River, arriving in Aguas Calientes in the late afternoon. This lively town is your gateway to Machu Picchu and offers a mix of thermal baths and souvenir shops, a good place to unwind after days on horseback.

Day 5: Machu Picchu and Returning to Cusco

The grand finale is a sunrise visit to Machu Picchu. The early start offers a quieter experience and spectacular views of the sunrise over the ruins. You’ll have a guided tour that covers the main highlights, including the Intihuatana and Temple of the Condor, with plenty of time to explore.

Afterward, you’ll descend to Aguas Calientes for lunch and some last-minute shopping, before heading back by train to Cusco. This day captures the essence of the trip—combining adventure, history, and the magic of one of the world’s most famous archaeological sites.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out

This trekking experience is especially appealing for those who want to combine horseback riding with cultural and archaeological discovery. Unlike typical Inca Trail hikes, this route offers the unique perspective of riding through traditional communities and interacting directly with local people.

The expert guides are often praised for their knowledge and helpfulness, making navigation through remote areas smooth and safe. Plus, the inclusion of organic meals and the chance to learn local crafts add depth to the trip.

Travelers also appreciate the small group size — limited to eight people — which ensures personalized attention and a more intimate experience.

The Value of the Experience

While at $1,800, this tour isn’t inexpensive, it reflects the inclusion of a wide range of services: private transport, all entrance fees, train and bus tickets, camping gear, and professional guides. The combination of culture, scenic riding, and archaeological exploration offers a comprehensive adventure that’s hard to replicate on a budget.

A Word of Caution

The physical aspect of the journey requires moderate fitness. Riding on uneven terrain, crossing high passes, and participating in active village life can be demanding. If you’re comfortable on a horse and enjoy outdoor activities, you’ll likely thrive. But if you prefer a more leisurely or less physically active vacation, this might be more challenging.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This trip is ideal for adventurous travelers with a fondness for horseback riding, history, and local culture. It’s perfect for those who want to go beyond typical tourist routes and experience Peru’s highlands authentically. If you enjoy small-group travel, scenic vistas, and engaging with local communities, you’ll find this trek rewarding.

Final Thoughts

This 5-day horseback riding journey from Cusco to Machu Picchu offers a rare mix of adventure, history, and cultural exchange. It’s a journey that will leave you with stunning images, meaningful connections, and stories to tell for years.

While it’s physically demanding, the rewards are plentiful — from the thrill of riding through remote mountain trails to the awe of discovering ancient Inca sites and the vibrant daily life of village communities.

If you cherish authentic experiences and scenic adventures, this trek might just be your perfect Peruvian escape. It’s a chance to see a side of the Andes few visitors get to witness, all while riding a horse through stunning landscapes that seem unchanged for centuries.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour?
Included are all entrance fees, horse rentals, camping gear, train tickets, private transportation, meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner), and guided support. You’ll also get a hotel night in Cusco at the start and end.

How physically demanding is this trek?
Moderate fitness is recommended since you’ll be horseback riding daily over varied terrain, including high passes at over 14,000 feet. It’s suitable for active travelers comfortable on horseback.

Are meals provided?
Yes, organic and traditional meals are included during the trek, with plenty of snacks, water, and beverages like coffee and tea.

Is this a guided tour?
Absolutely. You’ll be accompanied by professional guides, including horseback riding experts and local guides, who are praised for their knowledge and helpfulness.

Can I participate if I don’t have much horseback riding experience?
If you’re comfortable riding horses and have some experience, you’ll do fine. The tour is designed for those with a moderate level of physical fitness and riding confidence.

How long is the sightseeing at Machu Picchu?
The guided tour lasts approximately 2 to 3 hours, giving you ample time to explore and take photos before descending back to Aguas Calientes.

Is this tour suitable for children or elderly travelers?
Given the physical demands, it’s best suited for travelers in good health, with some riding experience or comfort on horseback.

What happens if I need to cancel?
You can cancel for free up to 24 hours before the tour start date, receiving a full refund.

How do I get to Cusco for the start of the tour?
The tour begins at Alejandro Velasco Astete International Airport in Cusco, with pickup arranged from your accommodation in the Sacred Valley.

This horseback adventure to Machu Picchu offers a compelling mix of scenic riding, cultural engagement, and archaeological discovery, perfect for those eager to experience Peru beyond the usual routes. Whether you’re an experienced rider or a curious explorer, it’s a journey that combines the thrill of the trail with meaningful cultural encounters.