The 4-day Inca Trail to Machu Picchu is one of the most popular trekking routes in South America and consistently ranks among the top 10 hikes in the world. Over four days, you will experience a perfect combination of history and natural beauty — visiting ancient Inca sites and arriving at Intipunku (the Sun Gate) before sunrise to enjoy the most spectacular view of Machu Picchu, the legendary Lost City of the Incas.
Cusco – Km 82 – Patallacta – Ayapata (14 km, approx. 6 hrs)
Depart from your hotel at around 4:30 a.m. and travel to Km 82 to begin the Inca Trail. The first campsite is at 3,300 m (10,826 ft). Spend the night in comfortable tents.
Ayapata – Warmiwañusca – Chaquicocha (16 km, approx. 10 hrs)
The longest and most demanding day on the trail. You will cross two mountain passes: the Dead Woman’s Pass (Warmiwañusca), the highest point on the Inca Trail at 4,215 m (13,829 ft), and the Runkuraqay Pass at 4,000 m (13,123 ft).
Chaquicocha – Phuyupatamarca – Wiñaywayna (10 km, approx. 6 hrs)
The most beautiful and relaxed day — just 6 hours of hiking through different ecological zones. Visit archaeological sites including Phuyupatamarca, Intipata, and Wiñaywayna at 2,600 m (8,530 ft). Camp just 2 hours from Machu Picchu.
Wiñaywayna – Machu Picchu – Cusco (6 km, approx. 2 hrs)
Wake early and walk 2 hours to Intipunku for your first and best view of Machu Picchu at sunrise. After exploring the citadel, board the Vistadome Panoramic train back to Cusco, arriving at your hotel around 7:30 p.m.
