Classic Inca Trail

Pickup from hotels begins around 5:00 a.m. We will head to Ollantaytambo, where we will arrive at approximately 6:30 a.m. There, you will have 40 minutes to have breakfast and buy souvenirs before continuing. (Note: breakfast is not included). Afterward, we will head to Piscacucho, also known as kilometer 82, the starting point of the Classic Inca Trail. We will arrive at this location around 9:30 a.m., where the first checkpoint of the Inca Trail is located. It is important to have your entrance tickets, passports, and, if applicable, your student card (if you paid a student rate) ready. At the start of the trail, at 2,720 meters above sea level (8,923 feet), we will cross the Vilcanota River and begin the journey following its course to the right. This first day is relatively easy and is considered a warm-up, as the terrain is mostly flat. Along the way, you will enjoy spectacular views, such as the Inca Fortress of Huillca Raccay, the vast and impressive Inca site of Llactapata (also known as Patallacta), and the majestic snow-capped peak of Wakay Willca (5,860 meters above sea level / 19,225 feet), also known as Veronica. The first camp will be in Huayllabamba, located at 3,000 m.a.s.l. (9,842 ft), a valley with a temperate climate surrounded by vegetation. Nighttime temperatures in this area are around 5°C, depending on the month. Details of the first day: Distance: 11 km / 6.8 miles Hike duration: Approximately 6 hours (includes a deluxe picnic lunch along the route). Difficulty: Easy/moderate. Terrain: Hike on open trails, with some steep sections.

We will start our day early, waking up around 5:30 a.m. to enjoy a hot breakfast that will give us the energy we need to face the day. We will begin with a steep climb to the highest pass on the Inca Trail, the Warmiwañusca Pass, known as the 'Dead Woman's Pass,' located at 13,829 feet above sea level. Reaching the summit will be a real achievement, a moment to remember! After a well-deserved rest at the top, we will begin the descent to Pacaymayo (3,600 meters above sea level / 11,811 feet), where we will enjoy a well-deserved lunch. On the way to the pass, you will have the opportunity to observe an impressive variety of hummingbirds and other bird species, as well as a rich diversity of native plants and trees unique to the region. After lunch, we will face the second steep climb of the day, which will take about two hours to reach the Runkurakay Pass (3,750 m.a.s.l. / 12,303 ft). From there, we will continue our journey to the camp, which we will reach at approximately 5:00 p.m. Camp altitude: 3,750 m.a.s.l. Nighttime temperature: Around 4°C. This day is a real challenge, but the panoramic views and contact with nature make every step worthwhile. Day 2 details: Meals: Breakfast, water, lunch, snacks, tea time, and dinner. Accommodation: Camp. Distance: 10 miles. Hiking time: Approximately 9 hours. Difficulty: Moderate/challenging. Nighttime temperature: Around 4°C.

Get ready for the most impressive day of the Inca Trail! We will start with breakfast at 6:00 a.m. before beginning a gentle climb to the archaeological site of Runkurakay (meaning 'egg-shaped site'), located at 3,750 meters above sea level. (12,303 feet), the third highest point on the route. Next, we will pass through Sayacmarca (meaning 'Dominant Village'), a fascinating citadel and religious site located 20 kilometers from the start of the route. The panoramic views of the mountains, canyons, and surrounding area are simply spectacular. We will continue to Phuyupatamarca, known as the 'City in the Clouds,' one of the most impressive Inca sites on the route. After exploring this place, we will begin a descent of 3,000 steps through the magical cloud forest to the Inca agricultural site of Intipata. Here you can admire its impressive design and take some time to enjoy its beauty before continuing. We will arrive at our third camp, Wiñayhuayna, around lunchtime (2,680 m.a.s.l. / 8,792 ft). This place, whose name means 'Forever Young,' is considered one of the most impressive sites on the Inca Trail. Despite the fatigue of the hike, you can't miss the opportunity to visit it, as it is only a few steps away from our camp. Day 3 details: Meals: Breakfast, water, lunch, snacks, tea time, and dinner. Accommodation: Camp. Distance: 10 km / 6.2 miles. Hiking time: 7 to 8 hours (approximately). Difficulty: Moderate. Nighttime temperature: Approximately 54°F.

At around 4:00 a.m., we will start the day with a box lunch to recharge our batteries before embarking on the last stage of the Inca Trail. This is the highlight of your trip: at 6:30 a.m., we will arrive at Intipunku, also known as the Sun Gate. From this point, you will have a breathtaking view of the Machu Picchu Citadel, an unforgettable image that rewards all the effort you have put in. From Intipunku, we will descend to the citadel of Machu Picchu (2,430 m.a.s.l. / 7,972 ft.). After walking for about 40 minutes, we will enter the site from the top through the House of the Guardians until we reach the main platform. There, we will proceed to the checkpoint to register and leave our belongings before starting the guided tour. Guided exploration of Machu Picchu Your professional guide will take you through the fascinating ruins, touring the main streets, plazas, and intricately carved stone stairways. This place is considered by many to be the spiritual center of the world, and its beauty and historical significance will leave you in awe. Once the guided tour is over, you will have free time to explore the site on your own and enjoy its magic. Additional options (not included in the price): Ascent to the Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu mountains: Enjoy a breathtaking view of the citadel from above. Activities in Aguas Calientes: Visit the new local museum or relax in the hot springs. Return to Cusco At the end of the experience, we will descend to Aguas Calientes to board the Expedition train to the Ollantaytambo or Poroy train station. From there, our transportation will take you back to your hotel in Cusco. (The train departure time may vary depending on availability and established schedules). Details for Day 4: Meals: Breakfast. Distance: 8.9 km / 5.5 miles. Hike duration: 2.5 to 3 hours. Difficulty: Easy.