Classic Inca Trail 4 days / 3 nights

This day is considered the most challenging, but also one of the most rewarding, of the Inca Trail. The trek begins early, around 7:00 AM, after breakfast, with a first stretch of a one-hour ascent towards Ayapata. Although this day demands great physical endurance, the spectacular mountain views reward hikers’ efforts.

The trail ascends 2 to 3 hours via Inca stone steps to reach the Llulluchapampa valley. After a nutritious lunch, you’ll prepare for the most challenging section: the climb to the Warmiwañusca pass. This final ascent takes another 2 to 3 hours, gaining 600 meters (approx. 1,968 feet) in altitude to reach the highest point of the trail, the “Dead Woman’s Pass,” at about 4,200-4,215 meters above sea level.

After conquering Warmiwañusca Pass and enjoying the panoramic Andean views, the descent towards the Pacaymayo valley begins. This descent is steep, lasts approximately 2 to 3 hours, and traverses a landscape that gradually becomes wetter and more lush, typical of the cloud forest. Along the way, Inca constructions like Runkurakay can be seen, adding a historical touch to the natural beauty of the surroundings.

By late afternoon, hikers arrive at the Pacaymayo campsite; this campsite enjoys a privileged location with impressive views over the valley. The day concludes with tea time and a buffet dinner to replenish energy after the most demanding day of the trek.

• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
• Hiking distance: 12 km / 7.5 miles
• Minimum altitude: 3,000 masl / 9,842 ft.
• Maximum altitude: 4,200 masl / 13,779 ft.
• Hiking hours: 7 to 8 hours.
• Accommodation: Camping in high-quality tents.

The day begins around 7:00 AM from Pacaymayo camp with a steep one-hour ascent to the Runkuracay ruins. These circular ruins likely served as an Inca watchtower or resting place. The climb continues for another hour to the Abra Runkuracay pass, offering spectacular views in good weather.

From the top of the pass, the trail descends into a lush cloud forest. After passing a tunnel and curves, you reach a viewpoint overlooking the Sayacmarca ruins, which can be explored. The descent continues to the Chakicocha campsite, where you will stop for lunch and rest, using the available restroom facilities.

After lunch, the hike continues along a well-preserved and beautiful stone-paved Inca Trail. This stretch traverses the Phuyupatamarca archaeological site, the “Town above the Clouds,” known for its panoramic views and water channels. The trail then descends through quiet wooded areas, passing waterfalls and viewpoints. The final stretch of the descent, lasting approximately two hours after lunch, ends at Wiñay Wayna, the final campsite before Machu Picchu. Arrival at this impressive Inca site on the hillside is usually in the afternoon, allowing time to explore its terraces and buildings. Before spending the last night on the Inca Trail, hikers can enjoy the historical and natural surroundings.

• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
• Hiking distance: 16 km / 9.9 miles
• Minimum altitude: 2,700 masl / 8,858 ft.
• Maximum altitude: 3,750 masl / 12,303 ft.
• Hiking hours: 7 to 8 hours.
• Accommodation: Camping in high-quality tents.

The last day of the trek begins very early, around 4:00 AM, with breakfast and a farewell to the support team at Wiñay Wayna. The march to Inti Punku (the Sun Gate) begins at 4:30 AM, lasting one to two hours, with part of the journey in darkness. This final segment traverses the cloud forest and includes significant ascents, aiming to reach the Sun Gate in time to see the sunrise over Machu Picchu.

Upon reaching Inti Punku, the first panoramic and impactful view of Machu Picchu is revealed, a magical moment at sunrise with clear skies. From this point, the journey continues with a descent of approximately one hour along a fairly easy path. This trail ends in the upper southern sector of the citadel, near the terraces and Guardian Houses, perfect for taking classic site photos.

At the main entrance of the complex, the guided exploration of Machu Picchu begins. For about 2 to 2.5 hours, a guide will explain the history and architecture of the key points of the Inca citadel. After the official tour, there may be free time to explore or photograph. The visit to the sanctuary ends upon exiting through the main control before descending to Aguas Calientes.

We arrive in Aguas Calientes for lunch (at the client’s own expense), then you will take the Expedition or Voyager train to Ollantaytambo. Our team will meet you at the train station for your private transfer to Cusco. Arrival in Cusco city is expected in the evening; the service concludes by dropping you off at your hotel in Cusco city.

• Meals: Breakfast
• Hiking distance: 8 km / 5 miles
• Minimum altitude: 2,000 masl / 6,561 ft.
• Maximum altitude: 2,700 masl / 8,858 ft.
• Altitude of Machu Picchu: 2,450 masl / 8,038 ft.
• Hiking hours: 6 hours.
• Accommodation: None.