Kickstart this epic day trip with a pickup from your hotel at around 4:00 a.m. We’ll drive to the Ollantaytambo Train Station and take the train for an hour-and-a-half trip to the starting point of this one-day Inca Trail, the KM 104.
After passing the checkpoint, we´ll go to the first archaeological site, Chachabamba. This was one of the last shelters used by the Inca pilgrims before reaching Machu Picchu. It features several buildings, so this will be the perfect place to hear the guide’s first intro to the fascinating Inca history.
Then, the real hike begins with a 3-hour ascent across the stone steps of the original Inca Trail. The ecosystem in this area is truly unique; you’ll identify different types of flora and fauna: orchids, flowers, trees, and other local species, and even a waterfall in the middle of the trail. We’ll arrive at the Wiñay Wayna archaeological site, the most significant along the Inca Trail. Here’s where everyone is amazed by its exquisite architecture!
You’ll see its many water sources for rituals, impressive agricultural platforms, and sacred places dedicated to the natural deities like the Rainbow Temple. Take this time to chill out, rest your legs, be silent, and connect with Mother Nature through birdsong or the refreshing breeze. Then is a little further walk to enjoy lunch at one of the Classic Inca Trail campsites. You’ll have enough time here to recharge energies while looking down at the edgy valleys below before the next leg.
We’ll keep hiking until the famous Inti Punku or Sun Gate, where every Inca Trail hiker accesses Machu Picchu. From here, you’ll stare at the breathtaking views and architecture of this majestic Inca City for the first time. This is also where the Incas would get their first sight of their magnificent Citadel. It’s hard to describe the impact of watching this ancient, sacred, and world-famous site. You’ll feel goosebumps wash over you.
After the views and photo opportunities, we’ll go on the last stretch to Machu Picchu. You will have a little more time to contemplate the site and the surrounding landscape in which the city is built while listening to a brief historical explanation from your guide. Take many memorable photos and let your spirit be filled with the energy of this magnificent, sacred place.
Later, it’ll be time to walk down to the Machu Picchu main entrance. You’ll take the bus down to Aguas Calientes, the small town at the base of Machu Picchu. We’ll catch the train there at 18:20 (subject to availability) back to Ollantaytambo. Our transport will be waiting to take you to Cusco and drop you off at your accommodation for a well-deserved rest after this unforgettable journey.
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Meals
Box Lunch and Snacks
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Difficulty
Moderate
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Walking Distance
9 km / 5.6 mi
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Walking Time
5 hours
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Maximum Altitude
2,720 m / 8,924 ft
