The wonderful Inca Trail to Machu Picchu is ranked as one of the best hikes in the world for its exquisite natural diversity. The great variety of flora and fauna, monumental constructions, incredible natural landscapes and above all a spectacular experience that must be done at least once in a lifetime.

 It has a route of 42 km. from Piscacucho, where the most incredible adventure you have ever imagined will begin, until you reach the famous Puerta del Sol from where you can see the citadel of Machu Picchu. People from all over the world come to Peru to make the most incredible trek through the mountains.

Declared by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site, the Inca Trail is one of the most famous attractions in the world where you will live the most incredible adventure you have ever imagined, you will cross the Andes and you will be wrapped by the thick vegetation that covers the mountain ranges where our ancestors walked and reach the Inca city of MACHU PICCHU.

ITINERARY AT A GLANCE

Day 1

Cusco – Piscacucho (km 82) – Canabamba – Llactapata – Wayllabamba

We begin our adventure in the Sacred Valley of the Incas, Piscacucho km 82. Admire the first Inca constructions such as Canabamba and Llactapata. While walking through beautiful valleys decorated with streams, agricultural terraces and animals of the area.

Day 2

Wayllabamba – Ayapata – Llulluchapampa – Dead Woman’s Pass – Pacaymayu

We will climb to the highest point of the hike, Dead Woman’s Pass. Admire from the top of the mountains the beautiful mountains that surround this impressive place. Then we will descend to a beautiful valley, Pacaymayu.

Day 3

Pacaymayu – Runkurakay Inca Site – Runkurakay Pass – Sayacmarca – Chaquicocha – Phuyupatamarca Inca Site – inti pata – Wiñaywayna

After arriving at the Runkurakay pass you will see the great change in nature and admire the great diversity of flora and fauna of the place. We will visit archaeological sites and learn about the Inca trails that connected these valleys and mountains.

Day 4

Wiñaywayna – Sun Gate – Machu Picchu – Aguas Calientes – Cusco

 We will arrive at the Sun Gate and you will be able to admire the imposing Inca City of Machu Picchu. Meet, admire and learn about one of the new wonders of the world located at the top of the mountains.

HIGHLIGTS
– Enjoy one of the most famous and beautiful mountain hikes in the world.
– Admire nature in all its splendor and admire a great diversity of flora and fauna.
– The valleys and mountains will be your company in this incredible adventure.
– Walk along the stone paths built through the peaks and admire the incredible landscapes.
– Walk to Machu Picchu through the Sun Gate and enjoy this magical place.
– Visit and admire this imposing city surrounded by majestic mountains and walk through its streets and stairways.

The 4-day Inca Trail is one of the most famous trekking routes in the world, which takes visitors to Machu Picchu, the emblematic Inca citadel. This trek starts at kilometer 82 of the Aguas Calientes railroad and goes deep into the Andes through breathtaking landscapes.

Day 1

Cusco – Piscacucho (km 82) – Canabamba – Llactapata – Wayllabamba

Today begins the adventure of a lifetime. We start the day at 6:00 a.m., we will pick you up from your hotel in our private transportation and drive for 1 hour and 30 minutes to Ollantaytambo (2,792 m.a.s.l. / 9,160 ft.). where we will stop at a restaurant to have breakfast and buy some things for the trek, then we will continue in our transportation for 1 hour more to kilometer 82, Piscacucho (2,700 m.a.s.l. / 8,858 ft.). There we will have time to get our backpacks ready before starting the trek.

First we will go to the checkpoint where we will show our passport and entrance tickets to the Inca Trail. After crossing the Urubamba River we will start our adventure. The first 2 hours of the hike will be in the middle of the Sacred Valley of the Incas heading north where we will be able to appreciate the flora and fauna of the place. The road crosses through small villages and crops of different vegetables, potatoes and corn, we will observe the first Inca constructions of Canabamba and after a small ascent we will arrive at the viewpoint of Willkarakay, from where we can admire the Inca Citadel of Llactapata (2,600 m.a.s.l. / 8,530 ft.). Located between the Urubamba and Cusichaca valleys, it was one of the most important constructions used by the ancient inhabitants of this area and from there we will share information about this place. We will descend and after a 30 minute walk we will arrive at Tarayoc, where we will enjoy a delicious buffet lunch prepared by our expert mountain cook.

After a rest we will continue walking for 2 hours to our first camp, Wayllabamba (3,000 m.a.s.l. / 9,842 ft.) where we will spend the first night. After settling into our comfortable mountain tents we will enjoy our first happy hour (hot drinks, chocolate, milk, coffee and accompanied by cookies and popcorn). After the next day’s briefing we will enjoy an exquisite dinner and then we will go to rest to start a new day with lots of energy.

Meals: lunch and dinner

Distance: 11 km / 6.835 mi.

Hiking time: 5 – 6 hours

Starting elevation: 2,700 m.a.s.l. / 8,858 ft.

Camp elevation: 3.000 m.a.s.l. / 9.842 ft.

Highest elevation: 3,000 meters above sea level / 9,842 ft.

Difficulty: moderate

Day 2

Wayllabamba – Ayapata – Llulluchapampa – Dead Woman’s Pass – Pacaymayu

We start the day at 5:30 in the morning and we will wake you up with a coca tea in your tent. You will have time to pack your backpack and after a nutritious buffet breakfast we will be ready for the hike.

We will begin the ascent through a cloud forest and have the opportunity to see various species of birds such as hawks, hummingbirds, eagles and others. The beautiful vegetation and large trees will decorate the trail in which highlights the Polylepis or Queuña (used by our ancestors as natural medicine). We will see small streams, waterfalls and after 4 hours of climbing we will begin to enter the Andes until we reach the highest point of the hike, the pass of La Mujer Muerta (4,215 m.a.s.l. / 13,828 ft.). Pay close attention because in this area you will see llamas, deer, small foxes and the sacred bird of the Incas, the majestic Condor.

Feel the energy of the mountains and you will be able to be infected by the magic of nature, touch the sky at the top of the Inca Trail and enjoy the landscapes that this place offers you. After this challenge you will understand little by little how our ancestors had the strength to cross these mountain ranges walking and in many occasions running.

Although the effort to reach this point was very tiring, do not forget to take pictures of the memory and thank the Pachamama (Mother Nature) for having completed this great challenge.

Then we will start with the descent for 1 hour and 30 minutes to our lunch and camping site, Pacaymayu (3,600 m.a.s.l. / 11,811 ft.). There our camping equipment will be waiting for us ready for the accommodation but first we will go to the dining room to enjoy a well deserved buffet lunch prepared by our cook and all the work team that accompanies us. After satisfying your appetite you can rest in your tent, do not worry because you will have the whole afternoon to relax and explore the place that is located in the middle of a valley with many streams and a great view of the surrounding mountains.

In the afternoon enjoy hot drinks (happy hour) and then enjoy an exquisite dinner and after the next day’s briefing you can go to rest, but not before appreciating the stars and constellations that decorate the sky in this part of the mountains.

Meals: breakfast, lunch and dinner

Distance: 10 km / 6,213 mi.

Hiking time: 7 – 8 hours

Starting elevation: 3,000 m.a.s.l. / 9.84252 ft.

Camp elevation: 3,600 m.a.s.l. / 11,811 ft.

Highest elevation: 4,215 m.a.s.l. / 13,828 ft.

Difficulty: challenging

Day 3

Pacaymayu – Runkurakay Inca Site – Runkurakay Pass – Sayacmarca – Chaquicocha – Phuyupatamarca Pass – Phuyupatamarca Inca Site – inti pata – Wiñaywayna

We will wake you up with a hot coca tea in your tent and after preparing your backpack we will enjoy an energizing breakfast and then start another day full of adventures and you can enjoy great views, landscapes and lots of nature.

First we will start climbing for 45 minutes and visit the small archaeological center of Runkurakay (3,750 m.a.s.l. / 12,303 ft.). From there we will appreciate the valley of Pacaymayu, the snow-capped mountain of La Veronica and 2 waterfalls that fall from the mountains. Then we will continue climbing up to the Runkurakay pass (3,950 m.a.s.l. / 12,959 ft.) and you will be able to observe great landscapes surrounding the second highest point of the trek.

While resting get ready to make an offering with coca leaves in a ceremony that your guide will teach you. Remember that the true connection with Mother Nature is in these places, far from the big cities and close to the mountains, where you will be able to touch the sky.

Then we will start with a 1 hour descent to another archaeological center, Sayacmarca (3,650 m.a.s.l./11,975 ft.). We will visit and learn about the history of this place and see the great valley of Ahobamba where other Inca trails lead to Machu Picchu. We will then continue to Chaquicocha (3,600 m.a.s.l. / 11,811 ft.), a resting place and then continue on the trail for 1 hour and 30 minutes to the last summit of the trek, Phuyupatamarca (3,670 m.a.s.l. / 12,040 ft.). From here you will be able to observe the Urubamba River, the great valleys and mountains that surround this mystical place located above the clouds, then we will descend 10 minutes to reach the archaeological center of Phuyupatamarca (3,600 m.a.s.l. / 11,811 ft.).  This place is a clear example of the Inca culture, its architecture, history and beauty. It has a sophisticated structure of circular retaining walls and is located on the steepest slope of the mountain. From there you will be able to observe a great part of the valley and the mountain of Machu Picchu. Remember that you are already at the entrance of the Amazon and that the landscapes will be totally green. Before starting the descent you will learn more about our history and then continue walking for 2 hours and 30 minutes along the stone path covered with lush vegetation, flowers, orchids and large trees until you reach Inti Pata (2,850 m.a.s.l. / 9,350 ft.). An agricultural center with large terraces that were used for agriculture. From here it will be 30 minutes more to our campsite, Wiñaywayna (2,650 m.a.s.l. / 8,694 ft.). Leave your backpack in your tent and after a short rest we will go to visit one of the most important places of the Inca Trail, the archaeological center of Wiñaywayna (always young). This place is considered the most beautiful place of the whole trail, because of the constructions, houses, agricultural centers, ceremonial centers, water fountains and more. Learn about our culture and enjoy the landscapes of this beautiful place known as the little Machu Picchu.

We will return to our camp and after resting we will have our hot drinks (happy hour) and after a comforting dinner we will have a small ceremony with all the members of our travel team, porters, cooks and guides. There we will talk about the experience so far on the Inca Trail and you can thank them and give them a tip as a thank you for the help provided in these days, then we will go to our tents to rest.

Meals: breakfast, lunch and dinner

Distance: 16 km / 9,941 mi.

Hiking time: 9 – 10 hours

Starting elevation: 3,600 m.a.s.l. / 11,811 ft.

Camp elevation: 2,650 m.a.s.l. / 8,694 ft.

Highest elevation: 3,950 m.a.s.l. / 12,959 ft.

Difficulty: challenging

Day 4

Wiñaywayna – Sun Gate – Machu Picchu – Aguas Calientes – Cusco

The big day has arrived. We start waking up at 3:30 am and get our backpacks ready to go to the check point. This day breakfast will be to go and you will be able to enjoy it here. When we pass the checkpoint we will start hiking for 1 hour through a trail completely covered by vegetation. The path is easy but you always have to be careful and always walk next to the mountain because there are people from other groups that are also there.

Once at the Puerta del Sol (2,720 m.a.s.l. / 8,923 ft.). You will get your first glimpse of the majestic Inca city of Machu Picchu. Located in the middle of the great Urubamba valley and surrounded by mountains full of great vegetation is the lost city of the Incas and you will have the privilege of having reached this place by walking the Inca Trail. Feel lucky because not everyone walks through the mountains to reach the Sun Gate and enjoy this magnificent view of this Sanctuary.

After a rest and having taken all the pictures we will start the descent for 1 hour until we reach the park control point and you can rest, have a refreshing drink or maybe a snack and then return and start the tour (Remember that if you want to climb the mountain of Machu Picchu or Wayna Picchu you can do it if you make the reservation in advance). After passing through the check point we will begin a short ascent to the highest part of the park from where you will see how this enigmatic city appears before your eyes.

Congratulations. After walking through the Andes, valleys, rivers and part of the Amazon, you finally arrived at the majestic Inca city of Machu Picchu. Known as one of the new 7 wonders of the world and recognized by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site, feel fortunate to have completed this wonderful challenge that many dream of doing. We will begin to take the first pictures, we will be located in a strategic place to start with the most important information of this archaeological center. The Inca History will be revealed and we will share with you the most important events about its discovery, importance and the most relevant about this stone city built on the mountains.

Then we will continue the tour walking through its streets and houses, reaching the quarry and the central square and then continue visiting the most important points. We will talk about each of these places that were used by our ancestors as work centers, homes and ceremonial centers. Always taking pictures of the memory. You will enjoy the tour and feel the strength that only this great Inca city can share with the people who are there. Feel the connection with mother nature and be surrounded by the magic of this place located on the great mountains accompanied by a great flora and fauna that complete its great energy and survive through hundreds of years away from the outside world.

At the end of the tour in this magical city we will go to the exit to take the bus that will take us to the town of Aguas Calientes, where we will have our last lunch and after sharing the experiences lived through the mountains for 4 days it will be time to go to the train station and head to Ollantaytambo where our private transportation will be waiting for us to take us to the city of Cusco and then directly to your hotel.

We are sure that after this experience, catalogued as one of the 5 best treks in the world, you will be very happy to have experienced the sensation of having been in the mountains and to have known the imposing Inca city of Machu Picchu.

Meals: breakfast

Distance: 5 km. / 3,106 mi.

Hiking time: 4 – 5 hours

Starting elevation: 2,650 m.a.s.l. / 8,694 ft.

Highest elevation: 2,720 m.a.s.l. / 8,923 ft.

Difficulty: moderate

WHAT IS INCLUDED?
HIGH QUALITY SERVICE AND SAFETY
– Briefing:
One day before your trip you will meet with your guide to learn more about the itinerary you will take on this adventure. You will also get to know the most important information about the day to day of the trip. We will give you your duffel bag where you can put the extra things you will need during the trip. Remember that in this meeting you can talk about the different options or food restrictions you have.
– Professional mountain guides:
All our guides are graduates of the most important universities and institutes of Cusco. They are chosen for their great experience, responsibility, professionalism and above all for the great passion and pride they have for our history and culture. They will be proud to share with you everything related to our ancestors. They will make sure that your trip will be unforgettable. Your safety is guaranteed from the moment we pick you up in Cusco until we drop you off at your hotel at the end of the trip.
– First aid kit:
Our guides are specialists in first aid, rescue and evacuation if necessary. Because they have specialized training and are certified by the international red cross. They are highly trained and will always have a first aid kit and oxygen for any emergency. Your safety is guaranteed with us.

– Camping equipment:
We have the best logistic equipment for our trips such as eureka and the north face high mountain tents (3 and 4 seasons). Made especially to withstand the most intense climates of the mountains. We also have dining tents, kitchen tents, kitchenware and utensils. For you to spend comfortable moments at meal times.
Meals: 4 breakfasts, 4 lunches and 4 dinners.
Our high mountain chef is trained to cook and please you with the most delicious Peruvian and Cusquenian food. As well as the tastiest drinks, snacks and desserts that will leave you satisfyingly happy. Food options such as vegans, vegetarians or any restrictions are no problem for our cooks and will not have an additional cost.
– Snacks:
Every morning before the hike you will be provided with snack, fruits, cookies, chocolates, candies, So you can enjoy them during the hike.
– Water:
We have a water filter especially for use in the mountains. Each morning we will provide you with cold boiled purified water so you can fill your bottle or camell back. You will have the option to refill more water at lunch and dinner time, as you require.

Wake-up tea.
Every morning we will wake you up with a hot drink of your choice, tea, coffee or coke. Our guide will bring this drink to your tent for a warm start to the day and then you will have time to prepare the things you will use during the trek.
Happy hour.
In the afternoons after arriving at our camp we will have happy hour (hot drinks, tea, coffee, milk, chocolate), and some snacks (cookies, crackers, popcorn). At this time we can talk about the day and look forward to a delicious dinner before resting.
For hygiene.
A small towel and soap will be provided before each meal for hand hygiene.
Transportation: private service from door to door.
Day 1. We will pick you up from your hotel and take you to the starting point of the trek, Soraypampa.
Day 4. Hidrohelectrica train ticket to the town of Aguas Calientes (optional).
Day 5. We will wait for you at Ollantaytambo station and transfer you to the city of Cusco where we will leave you at the door of your hotel.
Bus ticket. From Aguas Calientes town to Machu Picchu (one way).
Train ticket. From the town of Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo (expedition service).
Personal belongings.
On days 1 and 2 the horses will carry all the camping equipment including their duffel bag (8 kg. / 17.63 lb.). From the starting point to the camp.

Bus ticket. From the town of Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu (one way).
Train ticket. From the town of Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo (expedition service).
Personal belongings.
On days 1 and 2 the horses will carry all the camping equipment including your duffel bag (8 kg. / 17.63 lb.). From the starting point to the camp.
On days 3 and 4 our camping equipment and duffel bag will be transported by car and train.
Hotel.
The last night will be spent in a hotel (2 or 3 stars) in the town of Aguas Calientes with private service, private bathroom, hot shower, wi fi and storage service as you require.
Permits and entrance fees.
.permit and entrance ticket in Mollepata (district where we pay to enter the trek).
. Entrance ticket to the historic sanctuary of Machu Picchu.

Extras:
We seek the total satisfaction of our passengers and that is why we include small pillows, a foam mattress, a backpack cover for the rain, rain poncho and a special bag to put hot water and you can sleep comfortably inside our comfortable tents in the mountains. We do our best to make sure you have an unforgettable vacation and an experience you will never forget.

We know that the most important thing on your vacation is your well-being and safety and that is why we organize our trips with the utmost care, because the most important thing for us is you.
Our experience offers you safety, comfort, good service and the satisfaction of our clients is our letter of introduction. If you have any questions write to us and we will be happy to help you so that all your doubts are clearly resolved.
Passport.
This is the most important document. You must carry with you the original passport, with which you booked the trip. This document will be presented when required by the Machu Picchu park staff, especially to enter the Inca city, to board the bus, the train and to check in at the hotel.

On the trail.

Considered one of the 5 best treks in the world by the National Geographic Magazine, the Inca Trail is well known and preferred by travelers seeking to learn more about our culture and to visit archaeological sites built in the mountains, walk through valleys, enjoy the beauty of nature, admire glaciers and snow-capped peaks, reach the summits of these ancient constructions, admire the tropical areas and enjoy the breathtaking scenery that adorn this hike to reach the sanctuary of Machu Picchu. The distances are strategically divided so that you can enjoy all the natural attractions of this magical place. Starting from the town of Piscacucho, kilometer 82 (2,700 m.a.s.l. / 8,858 ft.). Until arriving at the highest point, the pass of the dead woman (4,215 m.a.s.l. / 13,828 ft.). And the lowest place, Aguas Calientes village (2,000 m.a.s.l. / 6,561 ft.), in some places the hike will be challenging and we will give you the help and all the necessary recommendations to complete this incredible adventure.

Acclimatization.

Travelers arrive from different parts of the world, from different altitudes and even from sea level for this the recommendation is to arrive 2 or 3 days before to the city of Cusco (3,400 m.a.s.l. / 11,154 ft.). The altitude, the flight time and the time change can affect you especially if it is your first time in our city. No special training is required for this adventure, but acclimatization is recommended before starting the hike. We have alternatives before you travel. Day hikes for better acclimatization, we recommend some of them.

City tour

Sacred Valley

Salt mines of Maras and Moray

Mountain of colors, Vinicunca

Colored mountain, Palcoyo

Waqrapucara

Seven lakes, Ausangate

Queswachaca, Inca bridge

Biking, horse riding, rafting, zip line and more…

We have a special promotion for you that you will love, contact us right now and get an offer for the tour of your choice.

Informative meeting.

This meeting is very important, to share with you the information of the trek, day by day. Normally it is one day before the trip and the duration is 30 to 40 minutes. We will coordinate to choose the best place to meet you. Remember that the itinerary on the mountain about the next day will be at the time of dinner, to have the most clear information about all the days.

Duffel bag.

At the time of the briefing we will provide you with a duffel bag where you can put the extra things you will need for the trip, pants, polo shirts, socks, shoes, etc.

The capacity of the duffel bags is (7 kg. / 15.432 lb.), per person. Feel confident about the safety of your luggage and the inclement mountain weather because we have plastic to protect them from dust and rain.

Extra luggage.

If you have luggage that you are not going to use during the trip, don’t worry because you can leave it with us. We have a special storage room for your extra luggage and we will pick it up when you start the trek and return it when you finish your adventure. It is totally free and it is part of our service.

Door to door service.

Before starting the trip we will pick you up from your hotel, hostel or air b&b with our private transportation (if you are a little far from the city center or your accommodation has narrow streets to reach with our mobility we will coordinate it with you). We do not want any mishap to happen before, during and after the trip and that is why we will always be with you.

Feel free to ask all the questions you want to know, we will be happy to clarify all your doubts and concerns.

Important things to bring on the hike.

Very Important.

Original Passport

Student Card (students)

Cash (Souvenirs, Drinks, Snacks and Tips)

Water Bottles or Camelbaks

Sunscreen (SPF 50+)

Mosquito Repellent

WipesHand sanitizer

Hat

Snacks

CLOTHING

Pantalones de Senderismo (2)

T.Shirt (2-3)

Hiking Underwear and Socks Sets (4)

Warm Jacket

Thermal Fleece

Comfortable Hiking Boots

Waterproof Jacket / Rain Poncho

Wool Hat (Bennie)

Sneakers or Sandals (To wear at the Camp)

Waterproof Gloves

Towel (Quick Dry)

EQUIPMENT

Sleeping Bag

Trekking Backpack

Trekking Poles

Power Bank

Plastic Bags

Head Flashlight