Inca Trail Trek: the sacred path to Machu Picchu (4 Days)

Your great adventure begins with a transfer to Kilometer 82, the official starting point of the famous Inca Trail, located along the railway line between Ollantaytambo and Aguas Calientes. This is where your hike towards Machu Picchu begins. You first walk to Llactapata, the first major Inca archaeological site on the itinerary, before continuing your ascent through the valley to Huayllabamba, where you set up your first campsite for the night.

Accommodation: Night in a campsite in Huayllabamba.

After an invigorating breakfast, you begin the most demanding part of your trek: the ascent to the dreaded Warmiwañusca pass (also called Dead Woman's Pass), the highest point of the Inca Trail at over 4,200 meters of altitude. Once this great physical challenge is overcome, you begin the descent to your next campsite. This day is particularly magical, as the trail takes you through majestic queuña forests, endemic Andean trees offering a unique and enchanting landscape.

Accommodation: Night in a campsite in the Pacaymayo sector.

This morning, you begin a magnificent day of hiking of about 8 hours, punctuated by the discovery of several architectural wonders. This stage is a true journey back in time. As you walk along the paths paved by the Incas, you explore the fascinating sites of Runcuracay, Sayacmarca, and Phuyupatamarca. Your walk ends beautifully at the spectacular Wiñayhuayna complex, with its impressive agricultural terraces suspended over the void, where you spend your last night in a campsite.

Accommodation: Night in a campsite in Wiñayhuayna.

Very early departure to cover the final stretch of the trail and cross the famous Sun Gate (Intipunku) at first light. From this promontory, you enjoy your very first spectacular and panoramic view of the Machu Picchu citadel. You then hike down to the site for an unforgettable discovery of its sacred temples and squares. After your visit, you take the shuttle back down to the village of Aguas Calientes (about 30 minutes).
From there, you board the train to Ollantaytambo (1h45 journey), where a railway company shuttle bus picks you up to take you back to the Wanchaq station in Cusco (about 2h journey).