Inka Trail MachuPicchu Trek

For this trek, we recommend staying in Ollantaytambo in order to catch the first train at 6 am, rather than having to leave Cusco at 3 am in order to arrive on time. We will take the train from Ollantaytambo and arrive to the beginning of the beautiful trek after about 1 hour and 45 minutes. After crossing the Urubamba river, we will arrive at the checkpoint of the trail. We will visit our first Inca site called Chachabamba, which was a sacrificial altar for the Incas. Then our hike begins and we will gradually ascend to Wiñay wayna, (forever young) and visit the temple of the Rainbow and stop for a detailed explanation of one the most picturesque Inca archaeological sites. On the way we will enjoy beautiful orchids, wildlife, waterfalls and stunning views of the Sacred Valley. After lunch at Wiñay wayna, we will continue the hike on a gentle trail and arrive at Inti Punku, the sun gate, to have our first views of Machu Picchu. We will then hike down, arriving in time to take the classic postcard pictures of the citadel at sunset. We will have plenty of time to take in the views and take photos before going to our hotel in the town of Aguas Calientes by bus. We will accompany you to your hotel before meeting for dinner at Indio Feliz, one of the best restaurants in town.

Total hours hiking: 4-5 hours

Total distance: 6.3 miles /10 km

Elevation change: starting elevation 2100 m/6900 feet, finishing elevation 2730 m/8792 feet

Difficulty: Easy to moderate

Aguas Calientes, Machu picchu, to Ollantaytambo

Wake up at 5:30 and have breakfast at 6 am, then go to the bus station to take the 20 minute bus ride to Machu Picchu. Arrive in time for sunrise. Then you will have a 2 ½ hour walking tour of the site where we will visit the most important temples and palaces and understand why the Incas built this magic place. Have free time to explore on your own or climb Hauyna picchu if you have purchased tickets to do so. Return to Aguas Calientes by bus for lunch before taking the 2:55 pm train to Ollantaytambo. Transfer to hotel.