"The Inca Trail is for the mind, not for the feet..." (As Peru Inkas Top guides like to say.)
We begin the Inca Trail by picking you up from your hotel in Cusco and heading to KM 82. Along the way, enjoy stunning views of the Sacred Valley and traditional Andean villages. Upon arrival, we prepare with our team, cross the Urubamba River, and begin our hike toward Llactapata, an ancient Inca fortress used for agricultural and defensive purposes.
At Tayaroc, we’ll enjoy lunch surrounded by native flora and breathtaking mountain scenery. The trail continues through Cusichaka Valley to our campsite in Wayllabamba, where you’ll be served a light snack and dinner, resting up for the next day’s challenge—ascending the Warmiwañusqa pass (Dead Woman's Pass).
The second day of the Inca Trail begins with a nourishing breakfast before starting the ascent through the Ayapata Valley. A one-hour hike takes us through a unique microclimate and forest until we reach the challenging Warmiwañusqa Pass at 4,200 meters (13,779 ft).
The path is lined with ancient Inca stone steps and offers panoramic views of snow-capped mountains like Huayanay. We’ll enjoy lunch at Llulluchapampa with spectacular views. The trail continues through the cloud forest and puna grasslands, home to hummingbirds, condors, and deer.
After reaching the summit, we descend to the Pacaymayo Valley where our campsite awaits with hot tea and a hearty dinner—recharging energy for another day of Andean adventure. Though the camp has basic amenities, it provides a truly immersive experience in the natural beauty of the Andes.
After breakfast, we begin a steep ascent from Pacaymayo to the archaeological site of Runkurakay, an ancient Inca Tambo. One hour later, we reach the second mountain pass with sweeping views, including the impressive Pumasillo mountain range.
The trail descends through a small tunnel and winds its way to Sayacmarca, a majestic Inca city perched dramatically on a rocky promontory. Continuing on, we reach Chaquicocha for a well-deserved lunch and rest.
In the afternoon, the trail reveals even more natural and archaeological beauty as we pass Phuyupatamarca and descend toward Intipata and Wiñaywayna. Along the granite-paved path and ancient stone staircases, you’ll enjoy breathtaking views of the Aobamba Valley.
At Wiñaywayna, we visit one of the best-preserved and most beautiful Inca complexes before setting up camp. This is a more popular site, so we recommend keeping your personal items secure. The day ends with afternoon tea and a buffet dinner as we prepare for the long-awaited arrival at Machu Picchu the next morning.
The final day of the Inca Trail starts early—at 4:00 am. Equipped with a headlamp, you’ll hike 1 to 2 hours in the dark to reach Intipunku (Sun Gate), the iconic lookout from which Machu Picchu is first seen as the sun rises, bathing the city in golden light.
From Intipunku, it’s a 50-minute descent to Machu Picchu, where you’ll check in and begin your guided tour. Over approximately 3 hours, your guide will take you through this awe-inspiring citadel, sharing its secrets and stories. After the guided visit, enjoy free time to explore or simply relax among the ruins.
If previously arranged, you can hike Huayna Picchu or visit the Inca Bridge—both require separate permits and early reservations.
Afterward, take the bus back down to Aguas Calientes, enjoy some free time for lunch (not included), and then board the train back to Cusco via Poroy or Ollantaytambo. Arrival in Cusco is expected between 8:00 and 9:00 pm.
