Classic Inka Trail

The Inca Trail Group Tour 4D/3N begins with an early pick-up from your hotel in Cusco (5:00 AM), Urubamba (6:40 AM), or Ollantaytambo (7:20 AM). We then travel to Piscacucho (Km 82), the official starting point of the Inca Trail, where you will need to present your original passport at the first checkpoint. The hike starts with an easy walk of about three hours to the Inca site of Patallacta, followed by a one-hour walk to the lunch spot. After lunch, we continue hiking for approximately two more hours to reach the first campsite in Wayllabamba (3,000 m). We arrive at camp around 5:00 PM, where you can relax with a hot drink and snack. Dinner is served at 7:00 PM, after which you can rest for the night.

The second day begins early with the porters waking you up with a cup of coca tea. Before starting the hike, there is a chance to buy any essential items you may have forgotten. This day is more challenging, so we set off early to avoid the sun. After a four-hour hike, we reach the lunch spot at Llulluchapampa, where you can refill your water bottles. We then continue to Dead Woman Pass (4,215 m), take a short break to enjoy the views, and descend into the Pacaymayu Valley to reach the second campsite. After dinner, weather and energy permitting, we can enjoy stargazing and learn about the Inca constellations under the clear southern sky. ⭐

Day 3 starts early at 6:00 AM as we continue ascending to the second section of the trail. Along the way, we visit the Inca site of Runcu Raccay, enjoy views of waterfalls, and reach the second mountain pass, where an Andean ceremony may take place. We then descend to the impressive Inca site of Sayacmarca for a guided visit and continue through the Cloud Forest. This day is considered the most scenic of the Inca Trail, offering panoramic views of the Vilcabamba range and Salkantay Mountain. After passing Chaquicocha, we hike along the “Inca flats” to Phuyupatamarka, where we have lunch and enjoy views of the Urubamba River. Later, we begin a three-hour descent to the final campsite near Wiñay Wayna, visiting important Inca ruins along the way. We arrive at camp around 5:00 PM and enjoy a farewell dinner and ceremony with the porters and staff. An early night is recommended, as the next day begins before dawn to reach Machu Picchu at sunrise. 🌄

The final day begins very early at 3:30 AM, with breakfast at 4:00 AM, followed by waiting at the checkpoint to start hiking when the gates open. After saying goodbye to the porters and chef, we hike to the Sun Gate (Inti Punku), arriving around 6:30 AM to enjoy breathtaking views of Machu Picchu. From there, we continue walking for about one hour to reach Machu Picchu. We enter the site around 8:00 AM and enjoy a 2-hour guided tour. After the tour, you will take a bus to Aguas Calientes, where you will have free time to explore the town or hike Huayna Picchu (if previously arranged). The guide may join you for a final lunch in Aguas Calientes (not included) and will provide your train tickets. Travel back will be on the Expedition class train unless an upgrade has been arranged. 🚆