Inca Trail Trek

Tour by bus with a local guide to Pisac in southern Peru’s Sacred Valley. Visit the market, acclimate to the elevation and have lunch before visiting the Ollantaytambo ruins, an archeological site located northwest of Cusco that sits at 9,160 feet above sea level and is known for its Inca buildings. Overnight in Ollantaytambo in preparation for trekking the next day.

Enjoy a private transfer from Ollantaytambo to Piscacucho, where the Inca Trail starts. Begin a scenic 5-hour trek on a section of the Inca Trail few have visited. While many cross the Urubamba River at Km 82, this tour follows the river downstream to cross at Km 88, setting the tone for the rest of the trek and creating some space from the crowds. Take a first break at Q’oriwayrachina for lunch, then cross the Urubamba River at Q’ente with the option to visit the archaeological sites of Wayna Q’ente and Llaqtapata. Set up camp for the night amidst the Inca terracing nearby.
Trekking Time: 5-6 hours
Distance: 6.8 miles

Continue the journey up the narrow Cusichaca Valley, passing houses inhabited by settlers and finally reach the Andean community of Huayllabamba. From here the cobble-stoned Inca Trail ascends steeply through ancient native forest exploding with the sounds of birdsong. The trail begins to level out at the campsite at Llulluchapampa, situated just below the first pass. Find breathtaking views of Mt. Huayanay and a first glimpse of the rare Andean cloud forest of quenua trees (polilepsi). Camp will be set up at Llulluchapampa.
Trekking Time: 6 hours
Distance: 5.6 miles

The day begins with a steady ascent up to Warmiwanusqa Pass at 13,692 feet, with rewarding views and a much-welcome descent to the Pacaymayo River that lay ahead. After a hearty lunch in Pacaymayo, ascend again to the ruins of Runkuraqay and the second pass at 13,200 feet. From here, walk down to the site of Sayacmarca at 12,551 feet on the original Inca Trail, passing a dry lake and the first signs of cloud forest. The walk along the ridge offers a leisurely respite from the day’s challenging ascents and long descents as well as incredible views of the beautiful Aobamba Valley below. Continue along the ridge through amazing landscapes and views of Mt. Salkantay on the western side, as well as Mt. Pumasillo silhouetted on the horizon to the north. Follow the flag-stoned trail all the way to the campsite at Phuyupatamarca, also known as “the village over the clouds.”
Trekking Time: 7-8 hours
Distance: 8.7 miles

Wake up early, but not too early, for a spectacular sunrise view a short hike up the hill from the campsite. Porters will be ready with steaming hot cups of tea. This site is known to deliver some of the best sunrise views in the entire Machu Picchu Sanctuary. After breakfast, continue trekking along a buttress, passing the ruins at Phuyupatamarca. The flag-stoned trail begins to wind sharply down into the cloud forest to the well-conserved ruins of Winay Wayna, located just below the ridge. Along the same trail the Incas once used, trek for 2 hours through dense cloud forest to Machu Picchu via Intipunku (the door of the sun), the magnificent citadel. After some time soaking in the glorious view, take a bus to the village of Machu Picchu. The overnight at a local hotel and dinner are self guided.
Trekking Time: 7 hours
Distance: 7.2 miles

A quick, half hour bus ride brings you to the gates of Machu Picchu to begin a guided 3-hour tour of this ancient hilltop citadel. Your guide will take you through the different sectors, bringing alive the history and stories of these ancient and iconic ruins. Take a step back in time and soak up the astonishing views, expert knowledge and impressive ruins. In the afternoon, return to the village to catch a train back to Cusco.

After breakfast, enjoy a transfer to the Cusco airport for the flights home or on to other adventures.