Moonstone Trek to Machu Picchu 5 Days

The Moonstone Trek is a 5-day trek covering a distance of approximately 40 kilometers (25 miles). It takes you through stunning landscapes and ancient Inca sites, culminating in a visit to Machu Picchu.

The Moonstone Trek can only be booked from April to November. The trail is closed during the rest of the year due to the rainy season and maintenance work in the area.

The 5-Day Moonstone Trek has no specific limitations on the number of people. However, the permits to Machu Picchu and Huaynapicchu, which are included in the tour, have a maximum of 400 people daily. It is recommended to book your trek at least 3 or 4 months in advance, especially for the high season from May to September, to secure the tickets to Huaynapicchu.

The Moonstone Trek offers stunning panoramic views of the Patacancha and Urubamba valleys. It also includes an overnight stay in Aguas Calientes, allowing you to explore the magnificent Machu Picchu citadel.

The Moonstone Trek ranges from moderate to complex. It involves hiking on varied terrain, including steep ascents and descents. The second day, in particular, is considered a challenging “long day.” Some hiking experience and a good level of fitness are recommended.

The Moonstone Trek package includes a professional English-speaking guide, trekking services with a cook and assistant cook, mountain equipment, all meals during the trek, transportation to the trailhead, entrance fee to Machu Picchu Park, hotel accommodation in Aguas Calientes, bus tickets to Machu Picchu, donkey support for carrying equipment, duffel bag for gear, transfer service from Ollantaytambo to Cusco, first-aid kit, and oxygen. Note that some items, like water on Day 1 and certain meals, are not included.

The Moonstone Trek package does not include water on Day 1 (only half a day), breakfast on Day 1, dinner on Day 4, lunch on Day 5, a sleeping bag (available for an additional cost), a single tent option (available for an additional cost), entrance ticket to Huayna Picchu (available for an additional cost), and gratuities for porters, cooks, guides, and staff.

The Moonstone Trek includes a professional guide who can communicate in English. This ensures you understand the information, history, and stories shared during the trek.

Some essential items to pack for the Moonstone Trek include comfortable hiking shoes, lightweight clothing layers, a hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, a rain jacket, a daypack, a refillable water bottle, snacks, a sleeping bag (if not renting), personal toiletries, and any necessary medications. Packaging warm clothing for cooler temperatures at higher altitudes is also recommended.