Cusco: Machu Picchu Inca Trail 4-Day Trek – Cusco, Peru

EXPERIENCE:

Take on one of the most spectacular sections of the vast Inca trail network on a 4-day trek over 45 kilometer (28 miles) of mountain trails. The adventure ends at the famous Inca citadel, Machu Picchu.
Day 1: Cusco to WayllabambaThe journey begins with hotel pickup in Cusco. Make a quick stop in Ollantaytambo to buy any last-minute supplies before heading to Kilometer 82, the official starting point of the Inca trail to Macchu Picchu. Hike for 3 hours through farmland along the Urubamba river to reach the Llactapata archeological site where lunch will be served by the chef and porter. After lunch, hike another 3 hours to reach the campsite in Wayllabamba where you will have dinner and enjoy the mountain scenery.

Accommodation: Wayllabamba
Maximum altitude: 3,000 m (9,850 ft)
Temperature during day: 10ºC – 23ºC (50ºF – 74ºF)
Hiking distance: approx. 12 km (7.5 mi)

Day 2: Wayllabamba to Pacaymayo
The day starts with breakfast at camp followed by an uphill climb of approximately 7 km (4.3 mi). This is considered the hardest part of the trail, but the panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys at the end make it worth the climb. After enjoying the vistas, hike 3 km (2 mi) downhill to the second campsite where the porter will be waiting with lunch. Spend the afternoon relaxing and enjoying the mountain scenery.

Accommodation: Pacamayo
Maximum altitude: 4,200 m (13,779 ft)
Temperature during day: 3ºC – 20ºC (37ºF – 68ºF)
Hiking distance: approx. 10 km (6.2 mi)

Day 3: Pacaymayo – Wiñayhuayna
Start the day with remarkable views from the Inca lookout of Runcurakay. Learn the historic significance of this site while admiring the mountain passes below. Next, descend 1.5 hours of stairs to Sayacmarca, perched high on the ridge. Lunch will be near the archeological site of Puyupatamarca, known as the “City Above the Clouds.” Keep descending into a rainforest filled with orchids, bromeliads, and ferns. The day ends in Wiñayhuayna, the Quechua term for “forever young.”

Day 4: Wiñayhuayna – Sun Gate – Machu Picchu – Cusco
The adventure ends with a 2-hour hike to the Machu Picchu archeological site. Upon arrival, pass through the Sun Gate (Inti Punku) and marvel at the panoramic views of Machu Picchu. After a guided tour and some time to snap some pictures, travel 1.5 hours to Ollantaytambo by train and then 1.5 hours to Cusco by bus (both tickets available as add-ons).
Maximum altitude: 2,900 m (9,514 ft)
Temperature during day: 10ºC – 27ºC (50ºF – 80ºF)
Hiking distance: approx. 6 km (3.7 mi)

TOUR HIGHLIGHTS:

Trek the famous Inca trail to Machu Picchu
Take in sunrises, sunsets, and spectacular mountain views
Savour typical Peruvian meals prepared by the chef and porter
Sleep in the great outdoors at 3 different campsites
Walk through the Sun Gate and take in views of Machu Picchu

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