Itinerary
Day 1: Ollantaytambo to Patallacta
Commencing our journey in the early morning, we immerse ourselves in the serene ambiance of Ollayantaytambo Plaza, nestled deep within the Sacred Valley. Here, amidst the picturesque surroundings, travelers have the opportunity to explore the remnants of the Inca civilization or simply indulge in the tranquility of this historic town. A hearty lunch awaits before we embark on the trail, tracing a path from Ollantaytambo to kilometer marker 82, our designated starting point for the trek.
Following the meandering course of the river valley, this initial leg of our expedition serves as an apt warm-up, preparing us for the more demanding challenges ahead. Our day's journey concludes at Patallacta, once a significant Inca construction and now the inaugural waypoint along this sacred route adorned with sanctuaries.
Starting Elevation: 2,670 meters / 8,761 feet
Maximum Elevation: 2,788 meters / 9,146 feet
Approximate Walking Time: 4 hours
Overnight at Patallacta Camp (Lunch, Dinner, and Snacks provided).
Day 2: Patallacta to Llulluchapampa
After a restful night's sleep and a delightful breakfast, our journey continues as we ascend through the picturesque Cusichaca Valley. This leg of the trek entails traversing a hot and humid terrain adorned with captivating flora and fauna, including the enchanting presence of indigenous hummingbirds.
While today's trek presents a challenge, it is of moderate duration and serves as excellent preparation for tomorrow's ascent to the highest pass along the Inca Trail. Our destination for the day is the Llulluchapampa campsite, strategically positioned as a midway point towards our ultimate goal of reaching the Mountain Pass.
Start Elevation: 2,788 meters / 9,146 feet
Maximum Elevation: 3,680 meters / 12,073 feet
Approximate Walking Time: 6 - 7 hours
Overnight at Llulluchapampa Camp (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, and Snacks provided).
Day 3: Llulluchapampa to Phuyupatamarca
Today's journey on the Inca Trail begins with the ascent to Warmiwañusta, known as Dead Woman's Pass, standing at an elevation of 4,212 meters (13,819 feet). This challenging uphill trek leads us to a stunning stone trail, where we traverse small ponds, and mountain passes, explore caves, and journey through lush forests, all while being serenaded by the melodies of local songbirds.
Following our first high pass, we continue our trek, gradually descending to our lunch stop after reaching another high point at 3,970 meters (13,022 feet). After a well-deserved break, we embark on what is arguably the most breathtaking segment of the original cobblestoned Inca Trail.
Over the next two hours, we are treated to unparalleled vistas, weather permitting, including possible sightings of Apu Salkantay and the Vilcabamba mountain range. This portion of the trail offers optimal opportunities for observing indigenous bird species such as Tanagers, as well as a rich array of orchids, ferns, and other flora and fauna.
Our campsite for the evening is Phuyupatamarca, meaning 'town over the clouds' in Quechua. Situated above the clouds, this awe-inspiring location promises a tranquil and memorable overnight stay.
Start Elevation: 3,627 meters / 11,900 feet
Maximum Elevation: 4,212 meters / 13,819 feet
Approximate Walking Time: 9-10 hours
Distance Covered: 12 kilometers / 7.5 miles
Overnight at Phuyupatamarca Camp (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, and Snacks provided).
Day 4: Phuyupatamarca to Machu Picchu
Commencing our day with a deliberate pace, we embark on the journey towards Machu Picchu, eschewing the hurried crowds. Anticipation fills the air as we eagerly approach Inti Punku, renowned as the Sungate, marking the primary original entry point to Machu Picchu. Here, we are greeted with our initial panoramic vista of the citadel, a moment of profound awe and wonder.
Today, our focus is on savoring the essence of the Inca civilization. While we will only glimpse a fraction of Machu Picchu, tomorrow promises a comprehensive exploration. Descending by bus to Aguas Calientes, our accommodations await, offering respite and rejuvenation. Later, as a collective, we gather for a celebratory group dinner, exchanging anecdotes of our trekking triumphs. With the completion of the Inca Trail, we stand united in achievement, poised for the grandeur that awaits us tomorrow.
Commencing Elevation: 3,688 meters / 12,100 feet
Maximum Elevation: 3688 masl / 12100 ft.
Estimated Walking Time: 6 hours
Distance Covered: 10.9 km / 6.8 miles
Overnight at Hatun Inti Classic Hotel (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, and Snacks provided).
Day 5: Exploring Machu Picchu
As our ultimate day begins, we have the option to relax this morning or take a leisurely wander around the town. Today, we'll enjoy an early lunch at one of Aguas Calientes’ excellent restaurants to ensure we arrive at the Citadel in good time for our full afternoon tour. Accompanied by our guide, we'll take a 25-minute bus ride to the sanctuary of Machu Picchu (2,400m / 7,874ft), where our exploration and discovery of this enigmatic Citadel will begin. Our guided tour will last approximately 2 hours, delving into the many curious corners within this ancient wonder.
Optional Activity: Machu Picchu with Huayna Picchu
For those feeling adventurous and up for another uphill challenge, there's the option to climb the famous mountain of Huayna Picchu this morning, before the afternoon tour. It's important to note that climbing this mountain requires a separate ticket purchased in advance. Please confirm your interest in this climb at the time of booking. The trail consists of many steep narrow steps (not recommended for those with vertigo), and the summit reaches a height of 2700m / 8858ft, with the climb totaling 300 meters. We will begin our ascent of Huayna Picchu at 10 am, with the round trip taking approximately 3 hours. Afterward, we'll exit Machu Picchu Citadel and enjoy lunch at Sanctuary Lodge, just outside the entrance to the Citadel. Following lunch, we'll re-enter the citadel at 2 pm for our guided tour.
As the site closes for the day at 5:30 pm, we'll bus back down to Aguas Calientes and embark on a charming train journey back to Ollantaytambo. This will be a time to reflect on what has quite possibly been one of the most amazing experiences of your life. Our private transport will be waiting to take us back to your hotel.
Transfer to Ollantaytambo or Cusco, and end of services (Lunch and Snacks provided).