Photo Tours & Travel - Destinations - Machu Picchu and Galapagos Islands

Inca Trail to Machu Picchu (4 days / 3 Nights)

One of the best ways to get to Machu Picchu

The Inca Trail is a historical path that leads to Machu Picchu. The trail winds through the vast Urubamba Valley, linking numerous Inca archeological sites along the way. As you walk along this legendary path each step is full of adventure. The breathtaking landscapes and views of snow capped mountains rising from the lush green cloud forest will leave you in awe.

Day 1: Ollantaytambo – Huallabamba (B,L,D)

This morning near the village of Ollantaytambo we will start our adventure. We begin the trail by crossing over the Urubamba River and walking alongside the river for part of our journey until we reach the ruins of Huillca Raccay, an Inca fort perched on a hill. You will have a guided tour of the site and then leisure time to explore. We will continue on the trail until we reach Huallabamba, where we will setup camp and spend the night.

Day 2: Huallabamba – Pacamayo (B,L,D)

This morning we will wake up early to begin what is probably the hardest day of the trek. We will depart camp and hike upwards from Wayllabamba through the lush forest until we reach the meadow of Llulluchapampa (3,680 m / 12,664ft). In this beautiful meadow we will rest for tea. Heading back on the trail we will continue until we reach the highest point of the trail “Abra de Huarmihuañusca” located at 4,200m (13,780ft). Here you can celebrate, as the hardest part of the trail is over. We will begin our decent down the pass into the Pacamayo Valley. Tonight we will setup camp in Pacamayo.

Day 3: Pacamayo - Wiñay Wayna (B,L,D)

We will start our day with a hike to the ruins of Runkuracay. From here you will have a spectacular views into the Pacamayo Valley. Continuing our journey we will arrive at “Abra de Runkuracy” at 4,000m (13,123 ft). Here we will walk along a cobbled path descending to Sayacmarca, which means the Inaccessible Town. Pressing onward we will pass through vibrant cloud forest full of orchids, hanging mosses, ferns, and flowers; and even walk through a historic Inca tunnel. This afternoon we will arrive in the ruins of Phuyupatamarca (meaning: Town in the Clouds). Phuyupatamarca is considered by many to be the most spectacular archeological site along the trail. We will have time to explore this magnificent site, then head to Wiñay Wayna where we will set up camp and spend the evening.

Day 4: Wiñay Wayna – Machu Picchu. (B)

We will awake while it is still dark and begin trekking. As the sun rises we will arrive into Inti Punku (The Sun Gate) of Machu Picchu. Seeing the sunrise while on the Inca Trail is a memorable life experience! We will descend from the Sun Gate into Machu Picchu where we will have a guided tour of the Inca sanctuary then leisure time to explore at our own pace. We recommend climbing Huayna Picchu to gain a unique perspective of Machu Picchu. After we have explored and relaxed in Machu Picchu we will make our way to the train station in Aguas Caliantes where we will take an evening train back to Cusco. Ask us about adding an extra day in Machu Picchu!