Inca Trail to Machupicchu 4D

DAY 1: PISCACUCHO – WAYLLABAMBA (12 KM)

First, after breakfast, we will move to the starting location of the classic Inca Trail, known as km 82. This first day is relatively easy and flat while we move along archaeological sites to visit such as Patallacta.

This archaeological site, built at the foot of the mountain, was an important center for administrative, economic, and religious functions. Additionally, we will visit Willkarakay, an Inca military post located near the Patallacta area.

After that, we will enter the Wayllabamba Valley, walking along the banks of the Cusicacacha River (Happy River). Furthermore, we will observe Inca terraces belonging to the previously mentioned archaeological sites.

As a result, we gradually continue our hike until we reach our first camping area located in Wayllabamba.

• Accommodation: Camp

DAY 2: WAYLLABAMBA – PACAYMAYU (11 KM)

We will start our day very early to reach by the end of the day the highest point of the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, the Warmihuañusca Pass (Abra of the Dead Woman). The first trek of the classic Inca Trail in the morning is somewhat physically intense, especially for those not accustomed to hiking at this altitude.

During the first part of the classic Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, we will walk for approximately one and a half hours through the cover of a dense Andean forest until we reach the camping area called “Tres Piedras,” where we will take a short break. Subsequently, during the ascent, the ecosystem of the area will begin to change as we enter the inter-Andean forest, where we can appreciate a large number of Unca trees, unique to this area.

Two hours later, we will arrive at another camping area: Llulluchapampa. Here we will rest with snacks and hot beverages. This will mark the beginning of the final ascent to the Warmihuañusca Pass at 4,215 meters (13,829 ft), the highest point of our hike. After that, we will descend for a few hours to our next camping area in Pacaymayu to spend the night.

• Accommodation: Camp

DAY 3: PACAYMAYU – WIÑAYHUAYNA (15 KM)

Similarly, this day we start with an approximate 45-minute ascent to the archaeological site of Runkurakay. Subsequently, another 45-minute ascent will take us to the second highest pass of the 4-day Inca Trail, Runkurakay (3,950m or 12,959 ft). After that, we will descend to the picturesque archaeological site of Sayacmarca. Then, after a detailed visit to the site, we will descend through the beautiful stone-paved path to have lunch at the Chaquicocha site.

Then, from here onward to Phuyupatamarca, we will delve into a high area of the Andean cloud forest. Here, the trail continues along a narrow Andean foothill until we reach the Phuyupatamarca Pass. A place from which it is possible to appreciate the Sacred Valley and numerous mountain peaks, as well as our final destination: Machu Picchu.

Therefore, we will descend to the last camping area, passing an important archaeological site, as well as a temple designated for making offerings to the spirits of the sacred mountains in the area, along with a wide terrace area. Finally, moving a little further, our last camping spot of the 4-day Inca Trail awaits us in the Wiñayhuayna area.

• Accommodation: Camp

DAY 4: WIÑAYHUAYNA – MACHU PICCHU (5 KM)

We will wake up very early to complete the final stretch of the classic Inca Trail, which will lead us to Inti Punku or the “Gate of the Sun,” the main entrance to the radiant citadel of Machu Picchu. Similarly, the trail will be quite easy, and after approximately one hour of hiking, we will arrive at Inti Punku, a stunning location to view the Machu Picchu citadel. And if the weather permits, the sunrise in the Andes.

After that, a 45-minute descent will take us to the high area of Machu Picchu, a natural viewpoint of the “famous” and classic scene we know. Here, we will enter as a group through the main entrance to register before returning to the site for the main tour, where we will learn more about this magical and beautiful place left by our ancestors.

Subsequently, in the afternoon, you will meet your guide in Aguas Calientes for lunch, during which you will receive your train tickets to return to Cusco. Included in our services is the tourist bus that descends from Machu Picchu to Aguas Calientes and the return train from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo, from where you will be picked up and transferred to Cusco in our private bus.

• Accommodation: in Aguas Calientes.