Inka Trail
4D/3N
- Departure
Cusco
- when
From April to November
- Difficulty
Moderate
- type
Private
overview
Embark on an unforgettable journey through the heart of the Manu Biosphere Reserve with our 6-day, 5-night tour. This adventure invites you to explore one of the most biodiverse areas on the planet, where lush rainforests teem with unique wildlife and vibrant ecosystems. Over the course of six days, you will immerse yourself in the stunning landscapes, encounter exotic species, and learn about the rich cultural heritage of the local communities. Guided by experienced naturalists, each day promises new discoveries and unforgettable moments as you navigate the pristine rivers and trails of Manu. Join us for an extraordinary experience that connects you with nature and the incredible beauty of the Amazon.
daily summary
Day 1
Cusco – Kilómetro 82 – Wayllabamba – Yuncachimpa
We’ll leave Cusco at 5:30am in a tourist bus heading for the Sacred Valley. We have a short break in Ollantaytambo for breakfast before arriving at km 82, the official beginning of the trek. We’ll meet the trek team at km 82 and register for the hike. After crossing the Rio Urubamba (2200m), we’ll begin the legendary Inca Trail.
The first day is easy and a good warm-up for the following days. We’ll have lunch in Miskay by a small river bank, and learn about the nearby archeological complex Llactapata. Next, we’ll hike to Wayllabamba (3100m) and ascend to Yuncachimpa (3300m), our camping site for the night. This campsite has a great view of the snow-capped Veronica Mountain. Lunch, Dinner.
Day 2
Yuncachimpa – Llulluchapampa – Warmihuañusca Pase – Pacaymayu – Runkurakay Pase – Chaquicocha
The second day has an early start, and everybody should walk at his/her own pace. We’ll meet up during short breaks or while ascending the stone stairs. The first 3km/2m are steep, with humid woodlands and the sounds of water to accompany you.
The trail first leads through the Valley of Llulluchapampa (3850m), and ascends for 2-3 hours until you reach the highest point: Warmihuañusca Pass (also called Dead Woman Pass due to its silhouette, 4200m).
This climb is the most difficult part of the Inca Trail. After a short break at the summit, you continue your hike with a steep descent to Pacaymayo River (Sunrise River) towards Runkurakay Pass (3050m) until we reach our camping site, Chaquicocha at (3650m). Here you get a well-deserved rest from the strenuous day while enjoying an amazing view of the mountains. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.
Day 3
Chaquicocha – Phuyupatamarca – Wiñayhuayna
The third day is the most beautiful; you’ll see changes in the ecosystems while you walk to the tropical forest of Wiñaywayna. We’ll pass two small lakes at the top of the second pass (3950m). It’s a gentle climb through beautiful cloud forests and a small Inca tunnel before the third pass (3700m) offers a lovely view over the Urubamba Valley. The nearest settlement is Phuyupatamarca (Town Above the Clouds) (3600m). There’s a well-preserved site with a series of Inca baths that are testimony to the excellence of Inca engineering.
We pass another Inca tunnel before visiting the ruins of Wiñaywayna (Forever Young) (2650m). We end the day arriving at our camp by the Inca stairs. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.
Day 4
Wiñayhuayna – Machu Picchu – Cusco
After breakfast at 4:30am, we’ll head – equipped with our flashlights – to Inti Punku (the Sun Gate) for our first spectacular glimpse of Machu Pichhu at sunrise. The last descent takes almost one hour before we arrive hiking at Machu Picchu (2400m) around 8:00am.
For about two hours, you’ll have a guided tour to better understand the meaning and use of the ancient buildings. After the tour, you’ll have time to climb Huayna Picchu (not included in the price).
Afterwards, a bus takes you down to Aguas Calientes, where you can soak in the natural springs (cost S/20 soles). We’ll leave Aguas Calientes by train to return to Cusco in the afternoon. Breakfast.
Tour Includes:
- Professional, bilingual tour guide
- Assistant tour guide (for groups of 9 or more people)
- Pick up from your hotels in Cusco
- Transportation bus to kilometre 82 and train* and bus to Cusco.
- Water (only for first 4 hours of trek, then we will provide you with drinking -previously boiled- water).
- Entrance fee to Inca Trail and Machu Picchu
- 3 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 3 dinners (breakfast on day 1 and lunch in Aguas Calientes are not included)
- Dining tent with tables and chairs
- Professional cook
- 4-man tent is provided for 2 people only
- Sleeping mattress
- Porters (they carry cooking and camping equipment)
- Bus trip from Machu Picchu down to Aguas Calientes
- Oxygen bottle
- First aid kit
Not Included:
- Sleeping bag (You could rent with us)
- Entrance to Huayna Picchu Mountain
What you need to take:
- Travel Insurance is essential
- Sleeping bag (not included )
- Walking boots
- Waterproof jacket/rain poncho
- Warm jacket
- Hat and gloves
- T-shirts
- Comfortable trousers
- Sun hat
- Sun protection cream (factor 35 recommended)
- Insect repellent
- Water (only until lunch time on day 1)
- Toiletries and hand sanitazer
- Personal medication
- Camera and films
- Torch with spare batteries (headlamps are useful)