Classic Inca Trail Information

Day 1: Cusco (3,350m) - Km82 (2,800m) - Wayllabamba (3,000m)

Early morning rise. Our guide will pick you up from your hotel and we drive to the start of the trail in private transport (approx. 2 hours) taking you through the Sacred Valley to Ollantaytambo where we stop to take a break. We continue onwards to Km82 - the start of the trail. Here we enjoy the view of Veronica Snow Mountain (5,720m). We then commence walking for about 3 hours, whereafter we take lunch close to Llactapata Ruins and then continue our trek through lush farmland and woodlands to our first camp at Wayllabamba. (Lunch, Dinner)

Day 2: Wayllabamba - Warmiwañusca (4,200m) - Pacaymayo (3,600m)

After breakfast, we begin to walk the toughest part of the trail. After approx. 3 hours walking we reach the highest point in the Inca Trail, Warmiwañusca, or more commonly known as Dead Woman's Pass (4,200m), where you have a beautiful panoramic view of the area. After lunch we continue down to Pacaymayo where we set up camp and have dinner. (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

Day 3: Pacaymayo - Phuya Patamarka (3,600m) - Wiñay Huayna (2,700m)

Today we ascend towards the second most important pass on the trail which lies at 4,000m. We reach the Inca Ruins of Runkurakay and the Inca citadel of Sayacmarca. We continue trekking towards Puya Patamarka (Cloudlevel town), another important archaeological monument, where lunch will be served. After a short break we continue walking to Wiñay Huayna (Forever Young), a beautiful Inca construction. We camp near to the ruins. (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

Day 4: Wiñay Huayna – Machu Picchu (2,500m) - Cusco

A very early start after breakfast in order that we can arrive in time for sunrise at Machu Picchu. We walk for about an hour through the forest before arriving at the Inti Punku (the Sun Gate), where we will have our first inspiring view of Machu Picchu. We admire the view before setting off for the short walk into the ruins. There will be a 2 hour fully guided tour around the ruins, visiting the main sites and monuments. Once we have completed the official tour, you will have plenty of time to explore the sanctuary on your own before returning to Cusco/Ollantaytambo (subject to train availability - If Ollantaytambo we meet you there and transfer you back to Cusco by touristic bus or private transportation). (Breakfast)

ABOUT THE CAMPSITES ON THE INCA TRAIL - Please note that we are not in control of the campsites we are issued with from the Institute of National Culture.  In general, your campsite allocation is dependent on how early you book, or rather, how many permits are left. The first 250 spaces are generally given to Winay Wayna (3rd campsite) and thereafter you will have a longer walk to Machu Picchu on the last day and it could mean you do not make it for sunrise. Do not let this disappoint you as Machu Picchu is marvellous in itself, no matter what time you arrive!