Day
3
SACRED VALLEY OF THE INCAS
Today, you will be transferred to the Sacred Valley of the Incas, where you will enjoy an overnight stay. Take in the breathtaking scenery and immerse yourself in the rich history and culture of this sacred region.
- Hotel: Luxury accommodation: Rio Sagrado, A Belmond Hotel, Sacred Valley *****
- Accommodation
- Breakfast
- Lunch
- Diner
Day
4
Start of the trail
We will pick you up from your hotel in our private bus for an awe-inspiring journey through the Sacred Valley of the Incas to Chillca, the 77km mark of the Cusco-Machu Picchu trail, our starting point. After crossing a footbridge, we embark on an undulating trek through a dry cactus zone, offering breathtaking views of Mt. Verónica’s snow-capped peaks and the roaring Urubamba river beside us. Our campsite awaits at the impressive terraces of Inca Llaqtapata (2750 meters above sea level), where we’ll further explore the surrounding areas of this vast ancient farming complex. For today and tomorrow, we recommend stocking your day-pack with candies, chocolates, and coca leaves to maintain energy levels and alleviate altitude sickness.
- Hotel accommodation: Camping site
- Accommodation
- Breakfast
- Lunch
- Diner
Day
5
LlACTAPATA - LLULLUCHAPAMPA
We rise early to continue our trek along the Kusichaca River valley. The trail gently ascends through the quaint village of Huayllabamba (3000 m), offering breathtaking views of the Vilcanota ridge across the Urubamba River, with the imposing Veronica peak towering at 5832 meters above sea level. Leaving Huayllabamba behind, we embark on the most challenging section of the trek: a steep 9 km ascent towards the first mountain pass of the Inca Trail, Abra Warmihuañusca, also known as “Dead Woman’s Pass” (4,200 meters above sea level). We camp at Llulluchapampa (3,750 meters above sea level), nestled below towering cliffs, with panoramic vistas of the Huayanay massif’s snow-capped peaks and valleys to the east.
- Hotel accommodation: Camping site
- Accommodation
- Breakfast
- Lunch
- Diner
Day
6
LLULLUCHAPAMPA- PHUYUPATAMARCA
After breakfast, we ascend to Warmiwañusca, the highest point of the Inca Trail, with breathtaking views. Descending to Pacamayo valley (3600 meters above sea level), we traverse an Inca stairway, passing Runkuracay. At the second pass, we admire vistas of the Pumasillo range before descending to the ruins of Sayacmarca, known as “Inaccessible Town.”
The Inca Trail, now a granite-paved structure, winds through the cloud forest, adorned with orchids, bromeliads, mosses, and ferns. Our campsite near Phuyupatamarca, or “Town of the Clouds” (3700 meters above sea level), offers stunning views of the Urubamba river. This archaeological site features a sacred complex with sturdy foundations. We camp here, immersed in its ancient atmosphere under the starlit sky.
- Hotel accommodation: Camping site
- Accommodation
- Breakfast
- Lunch
- Diner
Day
7
PHUYUPATAMARCA - mACHU pICCHU
As mentioned, Phuyupatamarca boasts breathtaking views. From this vantage point, we can admire the long descending stone steps leading to Wiñaywayna (2700 meters above sea level), meaning “Forever Young.” This remarkable complex features an agricultural center with numerous terraces, a religious sector, and an urban area, making it the largest and most exquisite site along the Inca Trail.
After exploring Wiñaywayna, we ascend to Intipunku, or The Sun Gate, a one-hour hike along a trail of flat stones perched on the cliffs of the highland jungle. Weather permitting, this fabulous spot offers spectacular views of the sacred citadel of Machu Picchu. Tonight, we stay in a charming hotel.
- Hotel: Luxury accommodation Machu Pichu Inkaterra Pueblo Hotel ****
- Accommodation
- Breakfast
- Lunch
- Diner
Day
7
mACHU pICCHU- Cusco
Today we leave early in the morning to the world-famous site of Machu Picchu the” Lost city of the Incas”. Partly due to its ingenious architecture and unique location in the heart of tropical vegetation, this magical place evokes mystery and admiration. The site was discovered in July 1911 by the young American archaeologist Hiram Bingham.
The sunrise view is known as one of the most beautiful views in the world. After this experience, you will be offered a very comprehensive tour by your private English-speaking guide after which you will also have a few hours of free time to spend in the complex. Today you can climb the Huayna Picchu mountain on your own. Climbing Huayna Picchu is optional.
Tickets for the ascent of Mount Huayna Picchu can be booked combined with a ticket for Machu Picchu. In the afternoon you will return to Aguas Calientes and we take the train back to Ollantaytambo, from here transfer to Cusco.
- Breakfast