Inca Trail to Machu Picchu 4 Day Trek

The Classic Inca Trail is one of South America's most famous treks. The four day route follows the ancient footpaths and staircases of the Incas to the ancient city of Machu Picchu. Machu Picchu itself is situated on a narrow ridge that is surrounded by cloud forests and steep cliffs that lead down to the mighty Urubamba River. It's a challenging and rewarding 40km (25 mile) hike through tropical forests, past numerous archaeological sites and over three mountain passes to the Sun Gate of Machu Picchu. Enjoy the hospitality of our guides and porters who will keep you well fed with hot meals and have your camp setup every evening before you arrive. If you are thinking of making this 4 day trek you need to book at least several months in advance as only 500 trekkers a day are allowed on the trail.

What's Included?

• Entrance fees to the Inca trail and Machu Picchu.
• Professional bilingual guide (Spanish and English).
• All meals during the trek as well as tea and snacks during the day.
• High quality camping equipment including tent, mattresses, eating tent with table and chairs and bathroom tent.
• Transport from Cusco to the start of the trek at km 82.
• Tourist train from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo (Expeditions or similar) and bus to Cusco (Hotel).
• Porters Service (8 kg maximum of personal luggage).

Day 1 - Cusco to Wayllabamba (3100m/10170ft)

Hiking time 6 hours
We will leave Cusco (3350m/10990f) at 5:30 am by tourist bus to and head for the Sacred Valley of the Incas. The trail starts at a place known as 82 km where we cross the river and start on the Inca Trail. The trail goes path the extensive Inca ruins of Llactapata and after some ups and downs heads up the canyon of the Cusichaca river. Great views can be had enroute of the Cordillera Urubamba. We end the day near the small village of Wayllabamba.

Day 2 - Wayllabamba to Pacaymayu (3600m/11800ft)

Hiking time 7 to 8 hours
This is the most difficult day as the trails crosses over the "Dead Woman's Pass" which is located at 4,215 m (13,829 ft). However the great views and changing environments will keep even the nonhiker interested in the route. The trail descends a short distance from the pass to the campsite of Pacamayo at 3600m.

Day 3 - Pacaymayo to Wiñayhuayna (2650m/8694ft)

Hiking time 7 to 8 hours
Leaving the camp at Pacamayo the trail descends and then ascends before reaching the circular ruins of Runkuracay. The trail crosses two more passes which include Abra de Runkuacay at 4,000m. The trail is paved with the original Inca stonework in most places and the stairways are impressive as well as physically demanding. In addition to the passes the trail goes past two sets of ruins the most impressive of which is Phuyupatamarca. Wiñay Wayna is the last official campsite before Machu Picchu. There is a restaurant where you can purchase drinks and even a well deserved beer, as well as hot showers ($1.5).

Day 4 - Wiñayhuayna to Machu Picchu and back to Cusco

Hiking time 4 to 6 hours
We'll wake early at 4.30am, have breakfast and set off on the trail again by 5.30am to get to Machu Picchu before sunrise. You will have pretty much the entire day to explore the ruins. Our guide will give a 2 hour tour to explain the various buildings. The train departs at approximately 15.55pm (time can vary subject to ticket availability) and you'll arrive back in Cusco for about 20:45.

Exclusions

• Entrance to Huayna Picchu. This ticket is an additional $60 and must be booked in advance.
• Entrance to Huayna Picchu. This ticket is an additional $60 and must be booked in advance.
• Bus going downhill from the Machu Picchu ruins to Aguas Calientes where the train station is situated. Most of the guests opt to walk back to Aguas Calientes which is all downhill and takes about an hour.
• Hot Springs in Aguas Calientes.
• Sleeping bag and other trekking gear not mentioned. Ask us if you need to rent one.

Note

• Displayed per person price are not applicable for the long weekends, Public Holidays & Festive Occasions.
• Minimum 2 person requires.
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