4 Day Inca Trail to Machu Picchu

On the second day of our 4-day Inca Trail journey, we will wake up early in the serene Wayllabamba campsite. After a nutritious breakfast, we will take part of what many consider the most challenging segment of the Inca Trail. Our path leads us towards Dead Woman’s Pass, the highest point of the trail.

We will begin our ascent in the cool morning air, gradually winding up through a beautiful Andean forest. As we climb, the vegetation will thin out, giving way to the stunning high mountain scenery. Along this day’s hike is important to pace ourselves, taking breaks to catch our breath and admire the breathtaking views.

Dead Woman’s Pass.

Reaching Dead Woman’s Pass, at an impressive 4,215 m (13,828 ft), is a moment of triumph. We will spend some time at the summit, capturing photos and celebrating our achievement. The views from here are truly awe-inspiring, offering a panorama of the surrounding peaks and valleys.

Pacaymayu.

From the pass, we will descend to our lunch spot at Pacaymayu, at 3,600 m (11,811 ft). This part of the trail is steep, so take care to navigate your steps carefully. Our lunch will be a well-deserved break, refueling us for the next part of our hike.

Runkarakay & Ch’akiqocha.

The afternoon will see us climbing again, this time to the second pass of the day. Along the way, we will pass the Inca site of Runkurakay. The final stretch of our hike will take us to the campsite at Ch’akiqocha, where we will rest for the night.

This day of the trail is challenging yet rewarding, with the magnificent Andean landscape providing a stunning backdrop to our journey. Our guides will be with us every step of the way, ensuring a safe and memorable experience.

Key Statistics for the Second Day:

• Distance covered: Approximately 16 kilometers (10 miles).
• Starting altitude: 3,000 meters (9,842 feet) at Wayllabamba.
• Highest point: 4,215 meters (13,828 feet) at Dead Woman’s Pass.
• Lowest altitude: 3,600 meters (11,811 feet) at Pacaymayu.
• Level of difficulty: High, with steep ascents and descents.

On the third day of our unforgettable 4-day Inca Trail journey, we will wake up to the serene environment of Chaqui Qocha. After breakfast, we will set off on what many consider the most beautiful part of the trail. Our path will lead us through a diversity of flora and fauna, offering glimpses of cloud forests and subtropical jungles.

Phuyupatamarca & Intipata.

We will start with a gentle climb to the third pass. Along the way, we will visit two Inca sites: Phuyupatamarca, known as the “Town in the Clouds“, and the impressive agricultural terraces of Intipata. These sites provide a unique insight into the Inca civilization and its advanced understanding of agriculture and architecture.

After exploring Phuyupatamarca, descend to our lunch spot near Wiñay Wayna, an Inca site known for its stunning terraces. The descent will be steep but manageable, this is a chance to take time to enjoy the incredible views and the diverse ecosystem around us.

Wiñay Wayna.

In the afternoon, we will explore the Wiñay Wayna archaeological site, one of the highlights of the Inca Trail. The site’s name means “Forever Young” in Quechua, and it’s a fitting title for the beautifully preserved terraces and structures.

Our campsite for the night will be near Wiñay Wayna. Here, we will enjoy our final dinner on the trail. We will reflect on the journey so far and prepare for our last day and the grand finale at Machu Picchu.

This day on the trail, with its varied landscapes and numerous archaeological sites, is both enchanting and memorable. It’s a testament to the rich cultural heritage and natural beauty of the Inca Trail.

Key Statistics for the Third Day:

• Distance covered: Approximately 10 kilometers (6.2 miles).
• Starting altitude: 3,600 meters (11,811 feet) at Chaqui Qocha.
• Highest point: Phuyupatamarca at 3,680 meters (12,073 feet).
• Lowest altitude: Wiñay Wayna at 2,650 meters (8,692 feet).

Level of difficulty: Moderate, with a mix of ascents and descents.

On the fourth and final day of our 4-day Inca Trail adventure, we will wake up before dawn. After a quick breakfast at Wiñay Wayna, we will embark on the final stretch of our trek to Machu Picchu.

Inti Punku to Machu Picchu.

Our journey will begin in the early morning darkness, allowing us to reach Intipunku, the Sun Gate, in time to witness the first rays of sunlight illuminating the majestic Machu Picchu. This moment, seeing the ancient city bathed in the morning light, is a once-in-a-lifetime experience and a reward for our efforts over the past days.

From the Intipunku, we will descend to Machu Picchu, arriving around 7:30 AM. Here, we will enjoy a 2 hour guided tour of the iconic site. The tour explores the main areas, including the Temple of the Sun, the Intihuatana stone, and the Room of the Three Windows. This tour will provide insight into the history and significance of this ancient wonder.

Return to Cusco.

After exploring Machu Picchu, we will take the bus down to Aguas Calientes. You will have some free time to enjoy lunch, explore the town, or simply relax and reflect on our incredible journey.

In the afternoon, board the train back to Ollantaytambo, followed by a bus to Cusco, marking the end of our unforgettable Inca Trail experience.

This final day of the trail, culminating in the magnificent Machu Picchu, is both exhilarating and reflective, a fitting conclusion to a journey through the heart of the Inca empire.

Key Statistics for the Fourth Day:

• Distance covered: Approximately 5 kilometers (3.1 miles).
• Starting altitude: 2,650 meters (8,692 feet) at Wiñay Wayna.
• Highest point: Intipunku (Sun Gate) at 2,720 meters (8,924 feet).
• Lowest altitude: Machu Picchu at 2,430 meters (7,972 feet).

Level of difficulty: Moderate, with an early start and a descent to Machu Picchu.