Machupicchu 4 Days

Pick up from the Hotel at 6:00am and drive to Km 82 the head of the Inca Trail. We begin our hike by crossing the bridge over the Urubamba River and walking along its left shore as it flows northwest. Following the trail along a flat terrain, we arrive in Miskay (2800m/9184 ft) to then ascend and finally see, from the tallest part of an overlook, the impressive Inca city of Llactapata (2650m/8692 ft). We continue trekking along the valley created by the Kusichaca River, gradually climbing for about five hours until we reach the community of Wayllabamba, our first camping.

We begin the most difficult part of the trek, which consists of an abrupt and steep ascent that stretches for 9 km along this climb. The first pass Warmihuañusca (Dead Woman´s 4200m/13776 ft) we may see domesticated llamas and alpacas grazing on ichu, one of the few plants that grow at high altitude. Walking down and cross an area of the so called cloud forest, which is the habitat for many different kinds of birds like hummingbirds and sparrows, and the Andean bear. We advise that on this day specially, your daypack is well stocked with candies, chocolates and coca leaves that will keep your sugar level high, and help with altitude sickness. We descend into the Pacaymayo (3600m/11808 ft), where we camp.

We ascend again past the Inca site of Runkuracay (3970m/13022 ft). As we reach the second pass, the landscape opens onto spectacular new views to the snow peaks of the Pumasillo range. Then we descend towards Yanacocha and enter the cloud forest to finally arrive at Sayacmarca. This is a beautiful complex made up of a semicircular construction, enclosures at different levels, narrow streets, liturgical fountains, patios and irrigation canals. Continuing up an easy climb to the third pass Phuyupatamarca, continue our trek down the long descending stone steps that lead us to Wiñay wayna (2650m/8692 ft) where we spend our last camping.

We wake up at 4:00am an hour later and climb to the Inti Punku (Sun Gate) from this fabulous spot, we may see the sunrise over the sacred citadel of Machu Picchu (2400m/7872 ft). From here we descend into Machu Picchu, 40 minutes later we enter the citadel from the highest point through the “House of the Guardians”. We then descend to the control point where we register ourselves and leave our backpacks. Upon arrival, you will participate in a guided tour of the Citadel, visiting the Main Plaza, the Circular Tower, the Sacred Sun Dial (the most important preserved Intihuatana), the Royal Quarters, the Temple of the Three Windows, houses, warehouses, a large central square; and all connected by narrow roads and steps that are surrounded by terraces cut into the mountain side. After the tour you’ll have time to stroll around the Archaeological Site at your leisure.