Emperor Pachacutec ordered the construction of a trail through the majestic Andes mountains linking the imperial city of Cusco to Machu Picchu, a journey that has become one of the most popular routes to the citadel today. On this 4-day Inca Trail hike, we'll follow in the footsteps of the Inca ruler through the breathtaking Peruvian landscapes.
4-Day Inca Trail Hike to Machu Picchu
Day 1: Urubamba - Wayllabamba
We'll pick you up at your hotel in Urubamba at the scheduled time, and set off on our journey to the village of Piscacucho, where we'll begin our first trek of the trip. We'll walk through the amazing mountainous landscapes of the Andes following the Inca Trail of Pachacutec.
During the first hike, we'll marvel at the views of La Veronica, the highest peak of the Urubamba mountain range, and we'll follow the course of the Vilcanota River until we reach the archaeological site of Llactapata. We'll spend a while appreciating the astounding ruins, located just on the edge of a massive cliff.
After the visit to Llactapata, we'll stop at the village of Taray for lunch, and then we'll continue walking to the Wayllabamba camp, located at an altitude of 3300 meters (10,826 feet). Here we'll have dinner and spend the night.
Day 2: Warmi Wañusqa - Pacaymayo
We'll wake up bright and early and have an energizing breakfast before setting off on a challenging uphill hike. We'll hike to the highest point of the Inca Trail, Warmi Wañusqa, located at 4200 meters (13,780 feet) above sea level. That the effort will be well worth it since from the top we'll get overwhelmingly beautiful panoramic views.
After this unforgettable experience, we'll descend to Pacaymayo, the camp where we'll have dinner and rest until the next day.
Day 3: Runkuracay - Sayacmarca - Puyupatamarca - Wiñay Huayna
After breakfast, we'll set off on the longest hike of the trip. First, we'll walk to the ruins of Runkuracay, a series of mysterious maze-like circular enclosures. We'll take a guided tour of this complex, including the citadels of Sayacmarca and Puyupatamarca, and make a pit stop to eat lunch and rest.
We'll then continue walking to the archaeological site of Wiñay Huayna (Quechua for "always young"), where we'll explore the structures built into the steep hillside. After the tour of the complex, we'll have dinner and go to sleep.
Day 4: Inti Punku - Machu Picchu
The absolute best for last! We'll have breakfast and set off on the hike to Machu Picchu, one of the Seven Wonders of the World. We'll pass through Inti Punku, the gateway to the Inca citadel, from where we'll appreciate the most spectacular view of the complex, and once in Machu Picchu we'll enjoy a three-hour guided tour, visiting its enclosures, fountains, and sacred temples.
After the visit, you'll have free time to explore on your own and take pictures, before we meet again to get on the bus that will take us to Aguas Calientes. Here we'll board the train and return to your hotel in Urubamba. If you wish, the trip can also end at Ollantaytambo, Yucay or Cusco.
Accommodation
The tour includes three nights of accommodation in camping tents at the Wayllabamba, Pacaymayo, and Wiñay Huayna campsites. Sleeping bags and trekking poles are not included, but you can rent them directly at the camp.
Difficulty of the Hike
The difficulty and distance of the trail vary according to the day. During the 4-day trip, we'll cover 12, 11, 16, and 6 kilometers (7.5, 5.6, 10, and 3.7 miles) respectively. A good physical condition is required since the hikes will be of medium to high intensity at high altitudes.
Options
When making your reservation, you can choose between two different package options. If you choose the package without a porter, you'll have to carry your own luggage throughout the four days. On the other hand, if you choose the option of a porter, we'll carry your luggage for you. However, bear in mind it cannot exceed 6 kilos (13.2 pounds) in weight.
Important
In case the activity is cancelled due to strikes or unfavourable weather conditions, we'll give you an alternative date for the tour. If the tour cannot be rescheduled, please note that you'll be refunded the full cost of the activity, except for the Inca Trail entrance fees (approx. 292PEN), which are non-cancellable.
