Cusco, Wiñaywayna, Aguas Calientes, Machu Picchu
- Time 4 days / 3 nights
- Tour Type Hike
- Altitude 4200 m.a.s.l.
- Place Cusco
- Difficulty Difficult
Trip Description
Discover the majestic citadel of Machu Picchu through the popular Inca Trail Tour, which has a duration of 4 days and 3 nights. This 43 kilometer trek will take you through ancient mystical Inca trails, cloud forests, rivers to the beautiful and majestic citadel of Machu Picchu.
Explore the Inca Trail, one of the most exciting and unique experiences in the world. During this tour, you will start walking through the Sacred Valley of Urubamba followed by Andean trails full of panoramic views and archaeological remains that will transport you back to Inca times. Along the way, you will visit the Inca archaeological sites of Runkurakay, Sayacmarca and Wiñay Wayna, each with its own history and significance.
On the last day, you will arrive at the archaeological wonder of Machu Picchu, which is hidden in the top of a mountain. This Inca citadel, one of the most popular tourist attractions in the world, will captivate you with its beauty and rich history. Discover the secrets of the Incas and join us on this unique 4-day, 3-night Inca Trail adventure in Peru!
Tourist attraction description
Machupicchu Archaeological Park. The Llaqta of Machupicchu, as this archaeological complex is known today, is built at 2450 m.a.s.l. at the eastern end of the Vilcabamba mountain range. Its strategic location, the geographical aspect, and its magical religious environment, were the reasons that motivated the great Inca Pachacuteq to order the construction of this city on top of the mountain, around 1450 A.D. According to many scholars, the city fulfilled different religious, astronomical, administrative, agricultural and urban functions, which were used by almost 700 people who lived permanently in the place performing different functions. Machupicchu is one of the few places that the conquerors never reached, perhaps because the city was abandoned around 1545, and therefore its constructions remained intact for centuries being covered and protected by vegetation, until the arrival in 1911 of the professor and explorer Hiram Bingham who made this architectural beauty known to the world.
Short itinerary
Day 01: Cusco – Piskacucho km 82 – Wayllabamba (camping)
The first day will begin with an early transfer from the hotel located in the city of Cusco in a comfortable van. The starting point will be km82, from where you will begin a hike that promises to be impressive.
After an exciting hike, you will arrive at the first camp in Llulluchapampa, which is surrounded by breathtaking natural beauty, which will make the experience even more unforgettable, here the adventurers will be able to rest and recover for the next day of the expedition.
Day 02: Wayllabamba – Llulluchapampa – Paqaymayu (camp)
This day presents us with an exciting challenge: we will pass through the impressive Warmiwañusca pass, which will involve several ascents and descents. In addition, we will visit incredible archaeological sites such as Runcuraccay and Sayacmarca on the way, before arriving at the cozy campsite in Chaquicocha.
Distance: 6, miles / 11 km (5- 6 hours) of walking.
Day 03: Pacaymayu – Phuyupatamarca – Wiñayhuayna (campsite)
For this day, we will start a trek on foot that will lead us through amazing natural scenery and remarkable historical sites, such as Intipata and Phuyupatamarca. Finally, we will culminate our journey at the Wiñayhuayna camp.
Distance: 9.9 miles / 16 kilometers (7-8 hours)
Day 04: Wiñaywayna – Machu Picchu – Cusco
On the last day of our itinerary, it involves a 5-mile walk to Intipunku, where you will have the opportunity to admire for the first time the majesty of Machu Picchu. Followed by a guided tour that will leave you breathless, we will return to Cusco with indelible memories that you will never forget.
Places to visit and activities to do on the Inca Trail 4 days – 3 nights
| Day 1 | Day 2 | Day 3 | Day 4 | |
| Departure point | Km. 82 | Llulluchapampa | Chaquicocha | Puerta del Sol |
| Arrival point | Llulluchapampa | Chaquiqocha | Wiñayhuayna | Cusco |
| Activities | Transfer from Cuzco to the Inca Trail and hike | Hike | Hike | Hike, visit Machu Picchu and return to Cuzco |
| Distancia / duración | 13 Km. / 5 h. | 11 Km. / 7 h. | 10 km. / 5 h. | 5 km. / 2 h. |
| Breakfast | ||||
| Lunch | ||||
| Snack | ||||
| Dinner |
Complete Itinerary
Day 01: Cusco – Piskacucho km 82 – Llaqtapata – Wayllabamba – Llulluchapampa (camping).
Cusco: The start of the Inca Trail tour takes place in Cusco with the tour team picking you up from your hotel between 5:30 am and 6:00 am. After picking you up, we will drive 1 hour and 45 minutes to reach the starting point of the trek at Piskacucho or Km 82, located in the town of Ollantaytambo at an altitude of 2,871 meters above sea level. We expect to arrive there around 8:00 am.
From that point, we start the hike through the first checkpoint of the Machu Picchu Inca Trail.
Llaqtapata is our first destination and is an ancient Inca checkpoint. During the first two hours of trekking, we will enjoy an easy walk to reach this impressive place. After visiting Llaqtapata (2,550 masl) and receiving an explanation from our guide, we will continue the hike to Wayllabamba (2,950 masl), where we will take a break to enjoy lunch with spectacular scenery.
Llulluchapampa: After a break to recharge energy, we will continue our trek walking for 2.5 hours to reach our first night’s campsite at Llulluchapampa (3,300 meters). During this stretch, we will cross two small communities where you will have the opportunity to purchase energy drinks, snacks and any other important items you may have forgotten, such as batteries for your camera.
- Distance: 6, miles / 11 km (5- 6 hours)
- Altitude: Camping altitude 3850 meters above sea level.
- Considered: Moderate day (getting used to the Inca Trail)
- Weather: Warm and windy
- Lunch: Llaqtapata
- Camping: Wayllabamba
- Meals: Lunch and Dinner
Important:
To enter the Inca Trail, it is essential that you carry your authentic passport with you.
Day 02: Wayllabamba – Llulluchapampa – Paqaymayu – Chaquicocha (camp)
Wayllabamba (3,840 masl): In the morning, the Porters will provide you with a cup of hot coca tea to wake you up and prepare you for the day ahead.
Warmiwañusca (4,200 masl): On this long day for us, we will start early. After enjoying a delicious breakfast, we will begin a hike that will take us approximately 4 hours to reach the highest point of our journey: the Paso de la Mujer Muerta, located at an altitude of 4200 meters or 13829 feet. Once there, we will stop briefly to contemplate the impressive views, and then continue descending to our next destination, Pacaymayu. After 90 minutes of hiking, we will arrive at the site where we will have lunch and take a break.
Runcuraccay Pass (3,850 masl): We continue our hike with the objective of reaching a small Inca site called Runcuraccay and contemplate two impressive waterfalls on the other side of the valley. Finally, we arrive at an incredible place called Sayacmarca, which is a village that is normally difficult to access. We decide to take a break to rest and have a short walk around the place, before enjoying the sunset over the Vilca Bamba mountain range.
Chaquicocha (3,600 masl): In only twenty minutes we will arrive at our second campsite, Chaquicocha, where we will spend the night. After dinner and if you are not too exhausted we can enjoy the view of the fascinating Inca constellations that is located in the splendid southern hemisphere and away from any source of artificial lighting, it is truly impressive and worth contemplating. This camp is located at a distance of 9.94 miles or 16 kilometers (7-8 hours) and at an altitude of 3600 meters above sea level with a cold climate.
- Distance: 9.9 miles / 16 kilometers(7-8 hours)
- Considered: Top day (you will have survived the two highest passes)
- Zone: The Andes and Cloud Forest
- Weather: Cold and rainy
- Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
- Camp: Chaquicocha
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Day 03: Pacaymayu – Phuyupatamarca – Wiñaywayna (camp)
Pacaymayu (3,600 masl): The second day of the Inca Trail has been successfully completed and it is time to start the third day. We rise early again at 6:30 am to begin what is considered the most impressive day of the trek. For 2 hours we walk along the “Inca flat” with gradual ramps and enter the jungle, known as the Cloud Forest. In this stretch, we will be able to admire the majesty of the second highest snow-capped mountain in the Sacred Valley, Salkantay, and have an impressive panoramic view of the Vilca bamba mountain range.
At the end of the Inca apartments, we begin to climb towards the last peak at Phuyupatamarca (3600 meters), from where you can enjoy breathtaking views of the Urubamba River. From there you can see for the first time the views of Machu Picchu in the valley, although you still cannot see the site itself. After Phuyupatamarca, we walk up some stairs for approximately 3 hours to reach our last campsite at Wiñay Wayna.
Wiñay Wayna (2,640 masl): Very close to Wiñay Wayna (Forever Young), a spectacular archaeological site on the Inca Trail and the most popular campsite due to its proximity to Machu Picchu, during the descent we will pass by two Inca ruins Phuyupatamarca (village in the clouds) and Intipata (sun terraces). Once at our campsite you will enjoy lunch and rest to be relaxed and prepared for the last day in Machu Picchu. At 4:30 pm, your guide will give you a brief orientation and you will visit the Inca ruins of Wiñay Wayna for about an hour and a half. During the hike, the guide will explain the importance of this site and refresh all the information given previously so that you are fully prepared for the visit to Machu Picchu the next day.
The company cares about its travelers and is accustomed to hold a party in the evening for the team of porters and cooks to thank tourists for their excellent trek (tipping is allowed at this time). It is recommended to go to bed early to get up early the next day and arrive at Machu Picchu at dawn, hoping to witness a beautiful sunrise over the ruins of Machu Picchu.
- Distance: 6.2 miles / 10 kilometers (5 hours)
- Camping Altitude: 2,600 meters above sea level (cold weather)
- Considered: Easy day – all downhill!
- Zone: High Cloud Forest
- Climate: Warm and very humid
- Campsite: Wiñayhuayna
- Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Day 04: Wiñayhuayna – Puerta del Sol – Machu Picchu – Cusco
Wiñayhuayna (2,640 masl): We wake up early at 4:30 AM and have breakfast, the last of our trek. Afterwards, we wait at the checkpoint to be one of the first to begin the exciting trek to one of the wonders of the world, as the gates open at 5:30 AM. We say goodbye to our team of porters and cooks before entering the Sun Gate (Inti Punku), where you can appreciate breathtaking views of the mountains and Machu Picchu in all its splendor.
Machu Picchu (2,430 m.a.s.l.): As we approach Machu Picchu, the views of the city become more and more impressive. Around 8:30 a.m., we will arrive at the final checkpoint to enter Machu Picchu and begin our two-hour private guided tour.
Aguas Calientes (2,040 m.a.s.l.): After the visit, you will be given bus tickets for your transfer to Aguas Calientes and this will give you 3 to 4 hours to explore the town freely. At 13:30 we will meet at a restaurant in Aguas Calientes for our last meal together, where you will also be given your train tickets for your return trip to Cusco. If you wish, we must be there 30 minutes before the train departure time and we will accompany you to the train station.
Huayna Picchu (2,720 masl): We have an additional optional hike to the top of Huayna Picchu, which lasts approximately 45 minutes. Upon reaching the summit, you can enjoy breathtaking views of Machu Picchu and the surrounding natural environment. If you are interested in this activity, it is recommended to book in advance as it has a cost of $20.
- Considered: The most exciting and magical day (early wake up 3.30am).
- Zone: High Cloud and Subtropical Forest
- Climate: hot and very humid (bring lots of water)
- Hotel: You can stay in Aguas Calientes or return to Cusco city.
- Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch
What's included
What is included in the Inca Trail:
- Transfer from the airport to your hotel (only Cusco and is optional).
- Briefing at our office
- Pick up from your hotel
- Private transportation from Cusco to Piskacucho (private transportation).
- Tents (big and comfortable)
- Foam mattress
- Professional guides with trekking experience
- Meals as indicated in the itinerary (optional: vegetarian or other dietary needs upon request)
- First aid kit including emergency oxygen tank.
- Porter to carry camping tent, food and cooking equipment.
- Hot water for washing.
- Boiled water to refill your bottles.
- Expedition tourist train from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo and transportation to Cusco.
- Permit for the Classic Inca Trail and entrance to Machu Picchu Archaeological Complex.
- Private toilet tent with toilet seat, for our group only
- 2 hour guided tour of Machu Picchu
- Bus tickets from Machu Picchu to Aguas Calientes.
- Dining room, kitchen, camping tent, tables and chairs.
- Chef and cooking equipment.
- Pillow
- Tea
- Taxes
Recommendations
What to bring
- Original passport (the same one used to book your trek)
- Valid university card (if you have booked as a student)
- Good backpack (the smaller the better – 30L OR 35L)
- Water storage: 2-3 L (Camelbaks recommended)
- Comfortable hiking boots with ankle support.
- Sleeping bag (can be rented from RAP Travel)
- Headlamp: essential
- Toilet paper
- 2 T-shirts
- At least 2 pairs of hiking pants
- 4 sets of underwear
- 3 sets of socks
- Thermal jacket
- Warm clothing, warm jacket
- Waterproof gloves (even if they are ski gloves)
- Comfortable shoes for camping.
- Quick drying towel. We provide small ones, you may prefer something larger.
- Small bottle of soap: we provide warm water each day for washing.
- Battery charger: There is no electricity along the hike.
- Plastic bags will be provided in the office. Please ask for them.
- Sleeping bag: must be at least -15ºC. It can be rented from us for $20 USD.
Toiletries
- Facial moisturizer
- Hand sanitizer
- Wet wipes
- Toothbrush and toothpaste
- Personal medications
- First aid kit: band aids, etc.
What to put in your backpack
We strongly recommend to have a small trekking backpack of 30 to 40 L for the day in which you can carry the following things
- Sun hat
- Sunscreen
- Headlamp: unpredictable
- Woolen hat
- Rain gear
- Wool
- Snack such as chocolate bars, cereal bars or any dried fruit.
- Coca leaves
- Plastic rain poncho
- Gloves
- Camera
- Hand sanitizer
- Toilet paper and small plastic bag for waste.
- Water: provide your own water until the first place for lunch, then we will provide cold boiled water at each meal time. Please bring your canteens.
Prices
SHARED SERVICE TOURInca Trail to Machu Picchu Tour PRICE PER PERSON Minimum 02 people |
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Tour Summary
What is included in the tour
TYPE OF TOURIST TRAIN
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Important note:
The train service THE VOYAGER – Inca Rail or EXPEDITION Train – Peru Rail, if you prefer to add the service in VISTADOME Train the additional is US$ 45.00 per person round trip.
Differential prices for students, children, infants.
PRIVATE SERVICE TOURInca Trail to Machu Picchu PRICE PER PERSON Minimum 02 people |
|
Tour Summary
What is included in the tour
TYPE OF TOURIST TRAIN
|
|
Important note:
The train service THE VOYAGER – Inca Rail or EXPEDITION Train – Peru Rail, if you prefer to add the service in VISTADOME Train the additional is US$ 45.00 per person round trip.
Differential prices for students, children, infants.
FAQS
Frequently Asked Questions from travelers
When is the best time to travel to Cusco?
The best time to travel to Cusco is during the dry season, which runs from May to October. During this period, the weather is generally dry and sunny, with daytime temperatures ranging from 18°C to 22°C. Nights can be quite cold, with temperatures dropping to around 5°C, especially in June and July.g
The rainy season in Cusco runs from November to March, and during this period you can expect regular rains, especially in January and February. Rainfall can be heavy and can cause disruptions to transportation and tourist activities.
Keep in mind that although the dry season is the best time to visit Cusco in terms of weather, it is also the busiest time in terms of tourism.
What is the weather like in Cusco?
The weather in Cusco varies according to the time of the year.
- The dry season (April to October): During this time, the weather in Cusco is generally dry and sunny, with temperatures ranging from 18°C to 20°C (64°F to 68°F). Nights can be cold, with temperatures dropping as low as 5°C. This is the best time to visit Cusco, as weather conditions are ideal for exploring the city and outdoor activities such as hiking and trekking.
- Rainy season (November to March): During this season, Cusco experiences frequent rains and cooler temperatures, with an average temperature of 16°C. Nights can be cooler, with temperatures dropping as low as 3°C. Rainfall can be quite intense and prolonged, which can make outdoor activities difficult.
It is important to keep in mind that the weather in Cusco can be unpredictable, even during the dry season. It is advisable to wear appropriate clothing for the weather and be prepared for sudden changes in temperature and rain.
What to see in Machu Picchu?
- The Intihuatana, The Temple of the Sun: a large ceremonial building, probably dedicated to the god Inti, the sun god in Inca mythology.
- The Main Temple: A large structure with an impressive panoramic view of the nearby mountains.
- The Main Street: The main road that runs through the center of the city and connects the main areas of Machu Picchu.
- The Sun Gate: The main entrance to Machu Picchu and one of the most iconic points of the city.
- The thermal baths: Inca system of thermal baths.
- The Huayna Picchu mountain: an optional hike that offers even more impressive panoramic views of the ruins of Machu Picchu, the hike lasts 1 hour uphill to climb the Huayna Picchu mountain.
What to bring on my trip to Cusco?
If you are planning a trip to Cusco, there are some important items you should take with you to make sure you are comfortable and prepared for any situation. Some of the items you might consider bringing are:
- Appropriate clothing: Due to the variability of the climate in Cusco, it is important that you bring clothing suitable for different weather conditions. Include warm clothes for cold nights, comfortable clothes for walking, and comfortable, sturdy shoes for exploring the ruins and trails.
- Sunscreen: Cusco’s altitude means that the sun can be very strong during the day, so it is important to bring sunscreen to protect your skin.
- Water bottle: The altitude can also cause dehydration, so it is important to stay hydrated.
- Medications: If you take any medications regularly, make sure you bring enough for your trip. It is also a good idea to bring some basic medications for headaches, upset stomachs and colds.
- Cash: Although most places in Cusco accept credit cards, it is advisable to carry cash in Peruvian soles for shopping in local markets, paying for cabs and tipping.
- Plug adapter: If you are coming from another country, you may need a plug adapter for electrical outlets in Peru.
- Camera: Cusco is a beautiful place with many interesting landscapes and tourist attractions, so you will want to capture many memories in photos or videos.
Where is Huayna Picchu?
Huayna Picchu is a mountain located in Machu Picchu. It is located north of the archaeological site of Machu Picchu and is one of the most iconic mountains in the area.
The climb to the top of Huayna Picchu is a popular activity for visitors to Machu Picchu, as it offers a breathtaking panoramic view of the archaeological site and the surrounding area. However, the ascent is quite steep and can be challenging for some visitors, so it is recommended to be in good physical condition and take the necessary precautions to enjoy the experience safely.
What is Aguas Calientes like?
Aguas Calientes, also known as Machu Picchu Pueblo, is a small town located in the Urubamba River valley, near Machu Picchu. It is the starting point for most visitors who want to visit Machu Picchu, as it is where the train stations and access to the buses that take visitors to the entrance of Machu Picchu are located.
Aguas Calientes has a vibrant tourist atmosphere and is a fairly small town. There are a variety of hotels, restaurants, cafes, bars, souvenir stores and travel agencies to cater to visitors. Due to its location in a mountainous area, the city has many stairs and steep streets, but also offers breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding area.
In addition to serving as a base for visitors to Machu Picchu, Aguas Calientes has some tourist attractions of its own, such as the hot springs that give the town its name, a small historic church and some nearby Inca ruins.
Where is Inti Punku?
Inti Punku, also known as the Sun Gate, is an archaeological site located on the route of the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu. It is located at an altitude of 2,720 meters above sea level, and is the traditional entry point to the citadel of Machu Picchu.
It is a stone structure located on top of a mountain with breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and the Urubamba River valley.
The hike to Inti Punku is the final section of the Inca Trail route. Hikers can enjoy breathtaking views of the mountains and nature before reaching the ceremonial gate and getting their first view of the citadel of Machu Picchu.
What camps will you visit during the trek?
- Wayllabamba Camp: Wayllabamba camp is where hikers spend their first night on the Inca Trail after walking a steep and demanding section of the route. The camp has basic facilities such as tents, portable toilets and a common area for hikers to relax and socialize.
- Runkuraqay Camp: Runkuraqay camp is the second camp on the Inca Trail route after Wayllabamba camp. Hikers spend their second night at this camp after hiking up a steep section of the trail and passing through the Warmiwañusca Pass (known as the Dead Woman’s Pass) at an altitude of 4,000 meters. The Runkuraqay camp has basic facilities such as tents, portable toilets and a common area for hikers to rest. The area around the camp is rocky and sparsely vegetated, but offers stunning views of the nearby mountains.
- Wiñayhuayna Camp: Wiñay Wayna camp is the third and last camp on the Inca Trail route before reaching the citadel of Machu Picchu the next day. The camp is surrounded by vegetation and close to the archaeological site of Wiñay Wayna. The Wiñay Wayna camp has basic facilities such as tents, portable toilets and a common area for hikers to rest. The area around the camp has a lot of tropical plants and flowers, making it an ideal place to enjoy nature.
