Day 1: Cusco – Km 82 (Piskacucho) – Patallacta

The Inca Trail to Machu Picchu begins with pickup at approximately 6:30 a.m. We will travel for 2 hours to Ollantaytambo (2,792 m/9,169 ft) where we will stop for breakfast. After our stop, we will continue our journey in our private transportation to Km 82 (Piskacucho) (2,709 m/8,887 ft), where the Inca Trail entry controls are carried out.

Once we have passed through the respective controls, we will cross a suspension bridge over the Vilcanota River. The first day is relatively easy, with approximately 3 hours to our first campsite. This is considered a warm-up day as the terrain is relatively flat. This day we will have wonderful views of the archaeological sites, mountains, and valleys surrounding this beautiful stretch. Upon arrival at our camp, our support group (porters and cook)—we will call them Waykis (a Quechua word meaning brother) for this story—will welcome us with a delicious lunch. The lunch is located at the foot of the Patallacta archaeological site at an altitude of 2,650 meters above sea level / 8,694 feet.

In the afternoon, you will have the option to tour the entire archaeological site accompanied by your guide.

• Difficulty level: Easy.
• Total distance: Approx. 6 km / 3.7 miles.
• Hiking time: Approximately 3 hours.
• Ollantaytambo altitude: 2,792 meters above sea level / 9,169 feet.
• Piskacucho altitude: 2,709 meters above sea level / 8,887 feet.
• Patallacta altitude: 2,650 meters above sea level / 8,694 feet.
• Meals included: Breakfast, lunch, afternoon tea, dinner, and snacks.
• Accommodation: Campsite.

Day 1: Cusco – Km 82 (Piskacucho) – Patallacta

The Inca Trail to Machu Picchu begins with pickup at approximately 6:30 a.m. We will travel for 2 hours to Ollantaytambo (2,792 m/9,169 ft) where we will stop for breakfast. After our stop, we will continue our journey in our private transportation to Km 82 (Piskacucho) (2,709 m/8,887 ft), where the Inca Trail entry controls are carried out.

Once we have passed through the respective controls, we will cross a suspension bridge over the Vilcanota River. The first day is relatively easy, with approximately 3 hours to our first campsite. This is considered a warm-up day as the terrain is relatively flat. This day we will have wonderful views of the archaeological sites, mountains, and valleys surrounding this beautiful stretch. Upon arrival at our camp, our support group (porters and cook)—we will call them Waykis (a Quechua word meaning brother) for this story—will welcome us with a delicious lunch. The lunch is located at the foot of the Patallacta archaeological site at an altitude of 2,650 meters above sea level / 8,694 feet.

In the afternoon, you will have the option to tour the entire archaeological site accompanied by your guide.

• Difficulty level: Easy.
• Total distance: Approx. 6 km / 3.7 miles.
• Hiking time: Approximately 3 hours.
• Ollantaytambo altitude: 2,792 meters above sea level / 9,169 feet.
• Piskacucho altitude: 2,709 meters above sea level / 8,887 feet.
• Patallacta altitude: 2,650 meters above sea level / 8,694 feet.
• Meals included: Breakfast, lunch, afternoon tea, dinner, and snacks.
• Accommodation: Campsite.

Day 3: Llulluchapampa – Pacaymayu – Ch’aqicocha – Phuyupatamarca

This will be the longest day of the entire trip (an early start is recommended). After breakfast, we will begin our adventure, hiking uphill for a two-hour trek to the highest point of the trail, called Abra de Warmiwañusca (a Quechua word meaning Dead Woman’s Pass), at 4,215 meters above sea level/13,828 feet. From here, we can enjoy unique views, different microclimates, magnificent mountains, beautiful green valleys, and a unique contrast of flora and fauna. We will have time to enjoy this unique space.

Having reached this point will give us the strength to continue, as from this point we will descend along a well-maintained Inca trail for approximately two hours to Pacaymayu, at 3,350 meters above sea level/10,990 feet. Our Waykis will provide us with a small cooler to regain our strength to continue.

After this short break, we will continue our hike along the opposite side of the valley, heading toward the second pass on the trek. Along the way, we will have fantastic views of waterfalls as well as flora and fauna. Halfway through, we will stop and visit the Inca site of Runkurakay (3,700 meters above sea level/12,139 feet) (Inca watchtower). We will rest for a moment to catch our breath before continuing our ascent to Runkurakay Pass (3,850 meters above sea level/12,631 feet).

From Runkurakay Pass, we will begin our descent again into the cloud forest. After approximately 1 hour, we will reach the Sayacmarca archaeological complex (3,650 meters above sea level/11,975 feet), located to the east, where we will have time for a guided tour.

From Sayacmarca, we will continue to our lunch spot at Ch’aqicocha (3,680 meters above sea level)/12,073 feet. From Ch’aqicocha onward, the Inca Trail offers stunning views of the Vilcabamba mountain range, as well as abundant flora and fauna. We will hike for two hours surrounded by unique greenery, gradual slopes, and abundant flora, leading us to our final camp, Phuyupatamarca (3,650 meters above sea level)/11,975 feet, where we will have our first view of Machu Picchu and the Urubamba River.

We will settle into our camp and have the opportunity to explore the surroundings and enjoy the beautiful sunset over the snow-capped peaks.

It will undoubtedly be a day filled with joy, and it will be totally worth it.

• Difficulty: Moderate / Challenging / Difficult.
• Distance: 15 km / 9.3 miles.
• Hiking Time: Approx. 8 hours.
• Warmiwañusca Pass Elevation: 4,215 masl/13,828 ft.
• Pacaymayu Elevation: 3,350 masl/10,990 ft.
• Runkurakay Inca Site.
• Elevation: 3,700 masl/12,139 ft.
• Runkurakay Pass Elevation: 3,850 masl/12,631 ft.
• Sayacmarca Pass Elevation: 3,650 masl/11,975 ft.
• Ch’aqicocha Elevation: 3,680 masl/12,073 ft.
• Phuyupatamarca Elevation: 3,650 masl/11,975 ft (camp).
• Meals: Breakfast – Lunch – Afternoon Tea – Dinner – Snack.
• Accommodation: Camp.

Day 4: Phuyupatamarca – Wiñaywayna – Puerta del Sol – Machu Picchu – Aguas Calientes

Ultimately, we’ll free ourselves from the stress of difficult days. What lies ahead is truly exciting. You can relax and enjoy what is possibly the most pleasant day for your feet and eyes.

On a clear day, you can watch the spectacular sunset over the mountains from our camp, in the good company of our Waykis (weather permitting). It’s truly one of the most unforgettable moments. Today’s route is varied, and it will only take us approximately 5 hours to reach Machu Picchu.

Very close to our camp is the archaeological site of Phuyupatamarca, at an altitude of 3,600 meters/11,811 feet, with spectacular views of the Urubamba River and Machu Picchu Mountain. We’ll take a short walk before continuing our descent down cobbled steps. We’ll walk for a couple of hours until we reach the Inca agricultural site of Intipata, at an altitude of 2,840 meters above sea level/9,317 feet. Here we can take a break and enjoy its magical surroundings. The next stop will be Wiñaywayna, at an altitude of 2,650 meters above sea level/8,694 feet. We’ll arrive at this point at approximately 11:00 am and stop to enjoy our last lunch prepared by our Waykis.

We’ll then have free time to explore and enjoy this important archaeological site, where your guide will explain the historical significance of this fantastic place. Wiñaywayna, the largest archaeological site on the Inca Trail besides Machu Picchu, is an impressive complex consisting of an agricultural center with numerous terraces, a religious sector, and an urban sector. At this site, we’ll find spectacular views over the narrow valley of the Urubamba River.

Next, we’ll bid farewell to our Waykis in a traditional ceremony of gratitude for all their hard work. If you wish, you can leave a tip for them at this point.

After saying goodbye to our team, we’ll continue along a relatively easy stretch of flat stone trail through the high jungle, taking an average of 1.5 hours. We’ll hike to the Sun Gate (Intipunku), at an altitude of 2,745 meters/9,005 feet. This is where we’ll get our first views of Machu Picchu. It will take approximately another hour to reach the site itself.

Upon arrival, we’ll have the opportunity to enjoy the sunset and see the views of Machu Picchu without the crowds, before taking the bus to the hotel in Aguas Calientes.

The day continues with a well-deserved rest, hot showers at your respective hotels, and dinner with details of the following day.

• Difficulty: Moderate.
• Total distance: 11 km/6.8 miles.
• Duration: 6 hours.
• Height of Phuyupatamarca: 3,600 meters above sea level/11,811 feet (archaeological center).
• Height of Intipata: 2,840 meters above sea level/9,317 feet.
• Height of Wiñaywayna: 2,650 meters above sea level/8,694 feet.
• Intipunku height: 2,745 meters above sea level/9,005 feet.
• Height of Machupicchu CA: 2,430 meters above sea level/7,972 feet.
• Height of hot waters (town of Machu Picchu): 2,060 meters above sea level/6,758 feet.
• Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner.
• Accommodation: Hotel.

Day 5: Machu Picchu – Aguas Calientes – Cusco

If you’re interested in seeing the sunrise over this ancient Inca city, you’ll need to get up very early to go to the bus station where you’ll wait for the first buses to the Machu Picchu Archaeological Complex.

On the other hand, we’ll take it easy and not get up early so we can get enough rest and regain our strength. After breakfast at your hotel, we’ll board the buses that head to the sanctuary of Machu Picchu, at an altitude of 2,430 meters above sea level/7,972 feet.

Once inside the citadel, we’ll have a 2-hour guided tour with plenty of free time to explore and take photos. There’s also the option to climb Huayna Picchu Mountain, at an altitude of 2,693 meters above sea level/8,835 feet, or Machu Picchu Mountain, at an altitude of 3,082 meters above sea level/10,111 feet (reservation is required as daily spaces are limited). During your private tour, your guide will give you a detailed tour with stories and reviews about this impressive Machu Picchu archaeological complex.

Points of Visit

• The Temple of the Sun
• The Intihuatana
• The Quarry
• The House of the Incas
• Urban Areas
• The Temple of the Three Windows
• The Temple of the Condor
• The Hall of Mirrors
• The Staircase of the Fountains
• Huayna Picchu Mountain
• The Temple of the Moon
• The Main Plaza
• The Royal Tomb
• The Sacred Rock

At 2:30 PM, we will meet at a restaurant in Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu village) at 2,060 meters above sea level/6,758 feet for our last lunch together. After lunch, you will receive your exclusive panoramic train tickets for your return trip to Cusco.

All of this makes Machu Picchu Peru’s main tourist destination, receiving nearly 2 million visitors a year, all of whom marvel at its majesty. Let us be your host, serving and guiding you to this Wonder of the World, and you too will be one of those privileged visitors. (Highlight in bold on the website)

SAMIN EXPEDITIONS will ensure your return to your hotel.

• Difficulty: Easy.
• Duration: 3 hours.
• Altitude of Machu Picchu Mountain: 2,430 meters above sea level/7,972 feet.
• Altitude of Huayna Picchu Mountain: 2,693 meters above sea level/8,835 feet.
• Altitude of Machu Picchu Mountain: 3,082 meters above sea level/10,111 feet.
• Altitude of Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu Village): 2,060 meters above sea level/6,758 feet.
• Meals: Breakfast (hotel), Lunch (Machu Picchu).
• Accommodation: Hotel in Cusco.

• Experienced, professional, bilingual guide.
• Orientation meeting at your hotel with your guide 1 or 2 days before the start of the trek.
• Waykis porters to carry tents, food, and cooking equipment.
• Chef and cooking equipment.
• Permits: Since the Inca Trail is a protected area, government permits are required. As soon as we receive your information and a deposit, we will purchase your permits (pending availability; see our Inca Trail Availability link). These permits are for a specific date and in your name. They cannot be changed once confirmed. Only updating your passport number is allowed.
  • • Entrance to the Inca Trail.
    • Entrance to the Inca citadel of Machu Picchu.
• Guided tour of Machu Picchu.
• All Private Transportation:
  • • Airport transfers to your hotel.
    • Pickup from your hotel by your guide.
    • Cusco to Piskacucho (start of the trek).
    • 3 bus tickets from Machu Picchu – Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu.
    • Vistadom Tourist Train from Aguas Calientes – Ollantaytambo.
    • Private transportation to Cusco.
    • Transfer from hotel to airport.
• 7 kg / 16 lb of your personal items (clothing, sleeping bag) will be carried by the porters; you will only carry your backpack.
• Tents (large and comfortable): 2 people per tent with inflatable mattresses.
• Dining room, kitchen, tents with tables, chairs, and portable toilets.
• Meals as indicated in the itinerary (vegetarian food optional upon request).
• First aid kit, including emergency oxygen tank.
• Hot water for personal hygiene.
• Cold, boiled water throughout the tour to refill your bottles or canisters.
• *** Hotel in Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu (subject to availability).

• Sleeping bag.
• Inflatable sleeping mats.
• Walking sticks (with rubber tips) are optional but recommended. If you don’t wish to bring any of the above, all are available for rent:
  • • • Sleeping bag: $25.
      • Walking sticks (pair): $20.
• Huayna Picchu Mountain: $75 USD. You must book well in advance if you wish to add an additional hike. Please let us know at the time of booking.
• Travel Insurance:
  • • • To protect your travel investment, we recommend purchasing travel insurance. Obtaining travel insurance before leaving home is highly recommended and easy.

*** TIPS ****
At SAMIN EXPEDITIONS: Our staff receives a fair salary indicated as medium-high. Tips are optional but greatly appreciated.

Essentials:

• Passport.
• Valid STUDENT ID (if you booked as a student).
• Immigration card (given at the airport upon entering Peru).
• Backpack (the smaller the better).
  Water storage: A 2- or 3-liter water container such as a camelback is recommended.
• Comfortable hiking boots (lightweight with good soles).

For your duffel:

Porters will carry up to 7 kg/16 lb of your personal items. This should include your sleeping bag and air mattress if you bring one.

• 2 or 3 T-shirts.
• 2 or 3 hiking pants.
• 1 comfortable outfit for the day at Machu Picchu.
• 5 sets of underwear.
• 4 sets of hiking socks.
• 1 thick, soft scarf.
• 1 warm jacket: it gets very cold at night.
• 1 rain jacket and pants.
• 1 sun hat.
• 1 wool hat.
• Headlamp: essential.
• Waterproof gloves.
• Comfortable camping shoes (tennis shoes).
• Hiking boots.
• Waterproof jacket/rain poncho.
• Quickdry towel. We provide small towels; you may want to upgrade to something a little larger.
• Small bottle of soap: We provide warm water every day for your personal hygiene.
• Battery charger: There is no place to plug it in during the hike!
  Large plastic bags: To help organize and keep the route clean.
• Sleeping bag: Down bags rated for at least -10°C are recommended.

Toiletries

• Sunscreen.
• Facial moisturizer.
• Insect repellent.
• Hand sanitizer.Wet wipes.
• Toothbrush and toothpaste.
• Toilet paper.

Inside your backpack

Backpacks can be any size for the hike, but we always suggest smaller, better. Backpacks larger than 25L will not be allowed inside the citadel of Machu Picchu. If it’s larger, you’ll need to store it outside the citadel gates. But don’t worry, they have a secure storage facility.

• Water: We provide clean water at every meal. You are responsible for bringing water for the first morning because we won’t have time to filter the water until your first lunch.
• Personal medication.
• Some snacks such as chocolate bars and nuts.
• Sun hat.
• Rain gear.
• Rain poncho.
• Fleece jacket.
• Camera.
• Music player (cell phone).
• Hand sanitizer.
• Toilet paper and a small plastic bag for waste.
• Extra money for souvenirs, drinks, and tips.
• Earplugs.

What is the Inca Trail?

The Inca Trail (also called the «Inca Trail» or «Camino Inca») is one of the most important hiking routes in South America. This is influenced by its original Inca architecture, the archaeological remains along the route, and the natural mix of jungle and cloud forest along the way.

The Inca Trail to Machu Picchu or the Tahuantinsuyu Road Network to Machu Picchu is a hiking trail in Peru that ends at Machu Picchu.

What was the Inca Trail?

The Tahuantinsuyu Road Network (in Quechua, Qhapaq Ñan or Inka naani) was a system of long-distance roads in the Inca civilization that linked important cities on the coast and in the mountains. It was structured around two longitudinal axes: the mountain range and the coastal plain.

What is the Inca Trail and what places does it cover?

If you thought the Inca Trail was just the route you walked from Cusco to Machu Picchu, you were very wrong. The Tahuantinsuyo Trail Network actually covers 30,000 kilometers, spanning southern Colombia, Ecuador, Bolivia, Peru, Argentina, and Chile.

How is the Inca Trail done?

The Inca Trail is only permitted with a tour guide. Admission must be purchased through an authorized travel agency. The agency will book your entry ticket and everything you need to complete the Inca Trail. Tickets must be booked six months in advance.

Can Machu Picchu be visited by people of any age?

Yes, it can be visited by people of all ages. However, to ascend Huayna Picchu, only people over 12 years old are allowed to visit.

At what time can I enter Machu Picchu?

Public access is from 6 am to 5 pm.

What to see in Machu Picchu?

Machu Picchu is home to nearly 150 amazing structures. These are some of the highlights:

• The Temple of the Sun.
• The Intihuatana.
• The Temple of the Three Windows.
• The Temple of the Condor.
• The Hall of Mirrors.
• The Staircase of the Fountains.
• Huayna Picchu Mountain.
• The Temple of the Moon.
• The Gate of the Sun (Intipunku).
• The main plaza.
• The Royal Tomb.
• The Sacred Rock.