Inca trail to Machu Picchu 4 days

The adventure begins early in the morning with pickup from your hotel in Cusco and transfer to km 82, also known as Pisca Cucho, the official starting point of the Inca Trail. From here, we begin our journey through the Sacred Valley of the Incas.

In this first section, we will walk through spectacular Andean landscapes and small villages that still preserve their ancestral customs. One of the most fascinating points of this stage is the visit to the archaeological site of Llaqtapata, an ancient agricultural and administrative city.

After the archaeological visit, we have lunch in a designated area along the way. This is a key moment to recharge our batteries before continuing on to the camp.

The hike, although moderately difficult, begins to reveal the majesty of the surroundings. Finally, we arrive at the Wayllabamba camp, where we spend the first night under the starry sky of the Andes, surrounded by the serenity of the mountains.

The second day is undoubtedly the most challenging of the entire trip. We wake up at 5:30 a.m. and start the day with a traditional cup of coca tea, ideal for acclimatizing to the altitude. Then we enjoy a hot breakfast, essential for tackling the physical demands ahead.

The goal for the day is to reach the famous Warmiwañusca Pass (also known as “El Paso de la Mujer Muerta” or “Dead Woman’s Pass”), which rises to 4,215 meters above sea level. The climb is intense, with steep slopes that test your physical and mental endurance.

This section will be quite a challenge. Every step toward the summit requires concentration and determination, but the views from the top simply make it all worthwhile. The feeling of reaching the highest point is indescribable, with the satisfaction of having conquered the most feared challenge of the Inca Trail.

From there, we begin our descent to the Pacaymayo camp, where we have lunch and rest for the night. This stage also offers the opportunity to reconnect with the group, sharing stories and experiences over dinner.

After breakfast, we begin a day filled with history and breathtaking scenery. This section includes several moderate ascents and descents, but with accumulated fatigue, each climb represents an additional effort.

The first stop is the archaeological site of Runkurakay, an ancient circular structure that probably served as a lookout point and shelter for Inca travelers.

Then, we ascend to the Runkurakay Pass, a crossroads that offers unparalleled views of the mountainous landscape. After crossing it, we descend towards Sayacmarca, another important archaeological complex that stands on a cliff, showcasing the ingenuity of Inca architecture.

We continue on to Phuyupatamarca, also known as “the city above the clouds” due to its strategic location with breathtaking panoramic views.

From there, the descent begins to the final camp at Wiñay Wayna, one of the most beautiful and best-preserved archaeological sites on the Inca Trail. That night we enjoyed our last dinner, sharing the excitement of being just a few hours away from reaching Machu Picchu.

The last day begins before dawn. We wake up at 4:00 a.m. to have breakfast and set off on the final hike to Inti Punku, the famous Sun Gate.

This is one of the most exciting parts of the journey. Walking in the darkness as daylight begins to illuminate the trail is a magical experience. And when you arrive at Inti Punku, the reward is immediate: the panoramic view of Machu Picchu at sunrise is, without a doubt, one of the most breathtaking sights you will ever witness in your life.

From there, we descend to the citadel for a complete guided tour, visiting its main temples, squares, and agricultural terraces. Then, we take the bus down to Aguas Calientes, where we will have time to celebrate our achievement with a well-deserved lunch before taking the train back to Cusco.

We will pick you up from Ollantaytambo station and take you to Cusco in our private transport.