Day 1: Cusco – Km. 82 – Wayllabamba
Your Classic Inca Trail 4 Days adventure begins with an early morning pick-up from your hotel at 6:30 am. We head towards the Cusco highway, specifically to the 82km mark, which is the official starting point of this legendary trek. On the way, you will enjoy breathtaking views of majestic snow-capped mountains, including Chicón, Verónica, and the impressive Salkantay. This scenic drive provides a glimpse of the magnificent Andean landscapes that await you.
Upon arrival at km 82, we will officially begin our incredible Inca Trail Hike. As we trek along this ancient path, you will appreciate the significant Archaeological Zones of Patallaqta. This first section of the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu is relatively gentle, allowing for acclimatization and enjoyment of the surrounding natural beauty. We will make a stop for a well-deserved lunch at an ideal time, replenishing our energy amidst the serene environment. Afterward, we will continue our trek towards our first campsite at Wayllabamba, where a delicious dinner and a restful night await us after a day full of discovery.
Day 1 Statistics:
- Activity: Travel to trailhead, Trekking.
- Starting Time: 6:30 am (hotel pick-up).
- Starting Point: Cusco.
- Trekking Start Point: km 82.
- Locations Visited: Patallaqta Archaeological Zones.
- Camp: Wayllabamba.
- Overnight: Camping at Wayllabamba.
Day 02: Wayllabamba - Warmiwañusca – Pacaymayo
Very early after breakfast, we begin our second day of Inca Trail Hike. This day marks a challenging yet incredibly rewarding part of the Classic Inca Trail 4 Days. We will trek through significant points such as Tres Piedras and Llulluchapampa, steadily gaining altitude. Our ultimate goal for the morning is to reach the summit of the Warmiwañusca Pass, also known as Dead Woman’s Pass, which stands at a formidable 4,200 meters above sea level (13,776 feet). From this highest point, you will be rewarded with absolutely fantastic panoramic views of the surrounding Andean peaks and valleys, a truly awe-inspiring sight that makes the effort worthwhile.
After conquering Warmiwañusca Pass, we will stop for a well-deserved lunch at the top or shortly after, celebrating our achievement. Following lunch, we will continue our descent towards the Pacaymayo camp, located at 3500 meters. This section of the Machu Picchu Trek offers different landscapes as we move through varied terrain. Upon arrival at Pacaymayo, we will settle into our camp, enjoy a nourishing dinner, and find comfortable accommodation for the night, preparing for another day of exploration on this incredible Inca Trail to Machu Picchu.
Day 2 Statistics:
- Activity: Trekking.
- Highest Point: Warmiwañusca Pass (4,200 meters / 13,776 feet above sea level).
- Camp: Pacaymayo (3500 m).
- Overnight: Camping at Pacaymayo.
Day 03: Pacaymayo – Runkurakay – Sayacmarca – Wiñayhuayna
At dawn on the third day of our Classic Inca Trail 4 Days, and after a fortifying breakfast, we continue our remarkable Inca Trail Hike. This segment leads us through some of the most historically rich parts of the trail. Our path takes us to the ancient ruins of Runkurakay and Sayacmarca, where we can pause to enjoy lunch amidst these intriguing archaeological sites. These stops offer valuable insights into the Inca civilization and the history of this Machu Picchu Trek.
Following our exploration of Sayacmarca, we will continue along the sacred road until we reach Puyupatamarca, another important archaeological site nestled in the cloud forest. This section of the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu is known for its stunning engineering and breathtaking views. After a relatively short walk from Puyupatamarca, we arrive at our last camp, Wiñaywayna. Here, we have the opportunity to visit the complex, an incredibly well-preserved Inca site with beautiful terraces. We can then set up our camp, enjoy a final dinner on the trail, and get a well-deserved rest, filled with anticipation for the ultimate destination on Day 4.
Day 3 Statistics:
- Activity: Trekking, Archaeological site visits.
- Sites Visited: Runkurakay ruins, Sayacmarca, Puyupatamarca, Wiñaywayna complex.
- Camp: Wiñaywayna.
- Overnight: Camping at Wiñaywayna.
Day 04: Wiñaywayna – Machu Picchu – Aguas Calientes – Cusco
The final day of your Classic Inca Trail 4 Days begins very early, typically around 4:30 am, after a light breakfast. We embark on a relatively short walk, building anticipation for the grand reveal. Our path leads us to Inti Punku, also known as the Sun Gate. From this iconic vantage point, you are rewarded with a truly fantastic, panoramic view of Machu Picchu as the sun rises, a moment that makes the entire Inca Trail Hike worthwhile.
Following this unforgettable arrival, we descend into the heart of the Inca citadel of Machu Picchu. Here, a comprehensive guided tour of approximately two hours awaits us. Our expert guide will lead you through the main temples and significant sectors of this ancient city, sharing insights into its history, architecture, and mysteries. You will then have free time to explore further, or for those who booked in advance, to go up to Waynapicchu. Please note: To enter Waynapicchu, you must reserve in advance, as only 400 people can enter per day.
In the afternoon, we will descend from Machu Picchu to the town of Machu Picchu Pueblo (Aguas Calientes). From there, we will board our train back to Ollantaytambo. Upon arrival in Ollantaytambo, our transfer will be waiting to take you by bus to the city of Cusco. This marks the end of your extraordinary Inca Trail to Machu Picchu adventure, leaving you with memories that will last a lifetime.
Day 4 Statistics:
- Activity: Trekking, Machu Picchu guided tour, return travel.
- Starting Time: Around 4:30 am.
- Key Site: Inti Punku (Sun Gate).
- Guided Tour of Machu Picchu: Approximately 2 hours.
- Optional Activity: Ascent to Waynapicchu (requires advance reservation).
- Return Transportation: Train to Ollantaytambo, bus to Cusco.
- End Point: Cusco.
