Trekking the Ancient Trails of the Incas

Day 1: Cusco | Llactapata
Transfer from your hotel in Cusco to the San Pedro Train Station; board your early morning train to Kilometer #82 for the beginning of your trek. Start the hike walking along the left bank of the Urubamba River and continuing along flat terrain to Miskay. After a climb, see the Inca city of Patallacta from the tallest point on the pass. From here descend to the ruins to set up camp; spend the afternoon exploring the archaeological site. (L,D)

Day 2: Llactapata | Lluchapampa
Early morning trek along the valley created by the Kuschica River, gradually ascending towards the farming community of Wayllabamba. En route, stop to admire the spectacular views of the Vilcanota Mountains, including impressive Veroncia Peak; discover a contrasting diversity of wild flora and fauna in the valley. Continue along the trail, the most difficult part of the trek, consisting of an abrupt and steep ascent; reach the first mountain pass of the Inca Trail. Half-way up the pass, stop in Llulluchapampa, to set up camp for overnight. Along the climb, the landscape changes from sierra to puna (dry and high area with little vegetation); see the domesticated llamas and alpacas. Cross into an area of a cloud forest, the habitat for many different kinds of animals like hummingbirds and sparrows, and the spectacled bear. (B,L,D)

Day 3: Lluchapampa | Phuyupatamarca
Early morning trek to the highest point of the Inca Trail; then, descend into the Pacaymayo Valley. Climb to the second mountain pass to visit the archaeological site. Then, descend towards the famous Black Lagoon and enter the cloud forest. Arrive at Sayacmarca; this beautiful complex consists of enclosures constructed in semicircles at different levels, narrow streets, liturgical fountains, patios and irrigation canals. At the third pass, see the magnitude of the Incas’ ancient craft, by walking along paths that are semi-detached from the mountain in perfectly formed stonework. Travel through an Inca tunnel before arriving at one of the most complete and best-preserved archaeological complexes along the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu. From above, observe the sacred complex and see the impressive view of the Urubamba River Valley. Set up camp in Phuyupatamarca for overnight. (B,L,D)

Day 4: Phuyupatamarca | Machu Picchu
Begin the descent down the stone steps that lead to Wiñaywayna. Here, there is a complete campsite equipped with a restaurant, bar and bathrooms with hot showers. This is the largest archaeological site on the Inca Trail, except for Machu Picchu, consisting of an impressive complex with an agricultural center, numerous terraces, a religious sector and an urban sector. See the spectacular views of the narrowing Urubamba River Valley before climbing to Intipunku, or the Sun Gate. At this point you can see the spectacular views of the sacred citadel of Machu Picchu, weather permitting. Then, descend into Machu Picchu and your final campsite, at the base of the mountain next to the Urubamba River. In the evening, time to visit the village of Aguas Calientes; enjoy a relaxing bath in the hot springs. Overnight at your chosen hotel. (B,L)

Day 5: Machu Picchu | Cusco
Wake up early; board a motorcoach that will take you up to Machu Picchu; guided tour of this astonishing Inca Citadel. Leisure time to walk around on your own, or, climb to the top of Huayna Picchu to see the splendid views of Machu Picchu, the valleys and surrounding mountains. Alternatively, visit the Temple of the Moon and the Inca Bridge. In the afternoon meet in the town of Aguas Calientes to take the train back to Cusco for overnight. (B)