DAY 1 Cusco - Piscacucho Km 82 – Wayllabamba

Our journey to Machu Picchu begins with the pick-up from your hotel at around 5:00 a.m. by your guide. We will arrive in Ollantaytambo around 6:30 a.m. with a 40-minute break for breakfast and the opportunity to buy souvenirs. Subsequently, we will head towards Piscacucho, known as kilometer 82, where our incredible Inca Trail trek commences. (Breakfast is not included). Around 9:30 a.m., we will reach kilometer 82, the first checkpoint of the Inca Trail, where we need to show our Inca Trail permit, original passports, and student ID (if applicable for a student discount).

At the beginning of the trail (2720 m / 8923 ft), we will cross the Vilcanota River, walking for about 2 hours until we reach Miskay (2690 m / 8825 ft), where we'll enjoy a delicious lunch.

The first day is relatively easy, serving as a warm-up along the flat Inca terrain. There are excellent views of the Inca Fortress 'Willca Raccay' (2750 m / 9022 ft), the vast and incredible Inca site of Llactapata (officially called 'Patallacta'), and the beautiful snow-capped peak of 'Wakay Willca' (5860 m / 19225 ft), known as Veronica. Our first camp is at Wayllabamba (3000 m / 9842 ft). We'll arrive there by 5:00 p.m., enjoying a pleasant dinner prepared by our personal professional chef at 6:30 p.m. After dinner, we'll settle in for the night. Nighttime temperatures hover around 5°C, depending on the month.

• • Difficulty: Easy / Moderate

• • Total distance: 11 km / 6.8 mi

• • Estimated walking time: 6 hours

• • Maximum altitude: 2,720 m. / 8,924 ft.

• • Accomodation: Camping facilities

DAY 2 Trekking Wayllabamba – Warmiwañuska "Dead woman's pass" – Pacaymayu.

Sunrise Trek: Start your day with a hearty breakfast at 5:30 am to fuel your body for the challenging climb ahead.

Conquering Warmiwañusca (Dead Woman's Pass): We will embark on a steep ascent towards Abra de Warmiwañusca, also known as the "Dead Woman's Pass." At 4215 m / 13829 ft, this will be the highest point of the trek. Reaching the summit will be an achievement that fills you with pride!

After a well-deserved rest and lunch at Pacaymayo 3,600 m / 11,811 ft, during the descend, delight your senses with the diversity of the flora and fauna in the area. Observe colorful species of hummingbirds and other birds, and admire the impressive variety of native plants, including the majestic Q'ueuña trees that thrive in the beautiful cloud forest.

Camping at Pacaymayo: Around 6:30 p.m., ready to cozy up under the stars. Be prepared for chilly nights, as temperatures here typically dip to around 4°C.

• • Difficulty: Moderate / Challenge

• • Total distance: 10 km / 6.2 mi

• • Estimated walking time: 7 hours

• • Maximum altitude: 4,215 m. / 13,829 ft. (Dead Woman's pass)

• • Accomodation: Camping facilities

DAY 3 Trekking Pacaymayu – Runkurakay – Phuyupatamarka - Intipata - Wiñay Huayna.

Wake up to a hearty breakfast at 6:00 am and fuel up for a day of scenic hikes and historical discoveries. Today, we embark on a special journey, passing through three majestic Inca ruins amidst breathtaking landscapes.

7:00 am: Ascent to Runkuraqay and Runkurakay Pass. Our first challenge is a one-hour uphill climb to reach Runkuraqay, a stunning Inca ruin situated at 3,750 meters. From here, we continue ascending for another hour to conquer the second high point of the day, Runkurakay Pass, standing at 3,950 meters. Take in the panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys – a reward for your efforts!

Sayacmarka and Chakiccocha: Descend and Delight. After conquering the two peaks, enjoy a comfortable 45-minute downhill walk to Sayacmarka, a charming Inca citadel perched at 3,650 meters. Explore its fascinating architecture and soak in the panoramic vistas. Continue the journey with a 25-minute hike to Chakiccocha, where a delicious lunch awaits us amidst idyllic natural surroundings.

Phuyupatamarca: Refueled and rejuvenated, we embark on the final Inca Trail hike of the day – a one-hour climb to Phuyupatamarca, another impressive Inca construction set at 3,600 meters. Immerse yourself in the history and marvel at the panoramic views.

Descent to Wiñay Huayna and Camp. Around 3:00 pm, descend for two leisurely hours down a gentle path to Wiñay Huayna, our final campsite located at 2,680 meters. Relax and bask in the beauty of the surroundings, knowing you've conquered the magnificent Inca Trail.

About 6:30 pm: Farewell Buffet and Optional Exploration. Our incredible chefs prepare a sumptuous buffet dinner. Feeling energetic? Seize the opportunity to visit the captivating archaeological site of Wiñay Huayna, just 5 minutes from camp. Witness its numerous terraces and ruins, bathed in the golden hues of sunset.

Unforgettable Memories and a Night in Wiñay Huayna. Remember, today's achievements pave the way for tomorrow's final ascent to Machu Picchu. Sleep soundly in our Wiñay Huayna campsite, knowing you've experienced one of the most impressive days of the Inca Trail. Overnight temperatures hover around 12°C.

• • Difficulty: Moderate / Challenge

• • Total distance: 16 km / 9.5 mi

• • Estimated walking time: 10 hours

• • Maximum altitude: 3,950 m. / 12,975 ft. (Runkurakay pass)

• • Accomodation: Camping facilitie

DAY 4 Wiñay Huayna – Inti Punku "Sun Gate" – Machu Picchu – Aguas Calientes – Cusco.

On this final day, start your day early with a hearty breakfast before heading towards the first checkpoint, opening at 5:30 am. A thrilling one-hour ascent awaits, leading you to the Sun Gate, where you'll be greeted by breathtaking Machu Picchu views and the majestic Andes mountains.

Prepare to be awestruck. Take a well-deserved 20-minute rest at the Sun Gate, soaking in the panorama, before a final 10-minute descent into the legendary lost city of the Incas. The Inca Trail culminates here, leaving you standing at the threshold of wonder.

Entering Machu Picchu: Pass through the second checkpoint and leave your backpacks (5 soles per bag) as you step into the marvel of this ancient city. Be sure to have your passport, entrance ticket, and student card (if applicable) on hand.

Unlocking Machu Picchu's Secrets: Between 8:00 and 10:00 am, your guide will lead you through Machu Picchu's captivating surroundings, unearthing the stories and significance of its temples, and hidden corners.

Descent and Return to Cusco: As your Machu Picchu experience draws to a close, use your included bus ticket to descend to Aguas Calientes. Board the "Expedition Train" at 6:30 pm for a comfortable journey back to Ollantaytambo (2 hours), followed by a connecting bus ride to Cusco, arriving around 10:30 pm.

Flexibility at your fingertips: If you prefer, you can adjust the train schedule to arrive in Cusco earlier or later, allowing you to explore Aguas Calientes further or simply relax after your trek.

• • Difficulty: Easy

• • Total distance: 8.9 km / 5.5 mi

• • Estimated walking time: 5 hours

• • Maximum altitude: 2,720 m. / 8,924 ft. (Sun Gate)

This final day on the Inca Trail promises a culmination of your journey, filled with awe-inspiring views, ancient mysteries, and unforgettable experiences. Embrace the magic of Machu Picchu and create memories that will last a lifetime!

BE SURE NOT TO MISS THIS INCREDIBLE TREK! Permits are sold out 6 months in advance or more