Exploring Inca Heritage & Mountain LandscapesCusco to Piscacucho (KM 82) to AyapataDay 01
The adventure begins with an early morning pickup from your accommodation in Cusco, driving through the Sacred Valley to the town of Ollantaytambo for a last hearty breakfast before the trek. The journey continues to Piscacucho (KM 82), the official starting point, where all permits and documents are carefully checked before you step onto the ancient trail.
This first day is a gentle introduction, guiding you through semi-arid terrain and past riverside communities. You will explore the archaeological sites of Canabamba and the magical complex of Llactapata/Wilkarakay, taking in the vastness of the Andean landscape and the first Inca constructions. The pace is set to allow for acclimatization and enjoyment of the spectacular views.
After a delicious and revitalizing lunch in Tarayoc, the afternoon trek brings you toward the first campsite. The day concludes upon arrival at the secluded campsite in Ayapata, where your tents will be set up and a warm, freshly prepared dinner awaits, preparing you for the challenging day ahead.

Ayapata to Dead Woman's Pass to ChaquiqochaDay 02
Day 2 is the most demanding, testing your endurance with a relentless uphill climb. The morning is dedicated to ascending the infamous Warmi Wañusca Pass (Dead Woman’s Pass), the highest point of the trek at 4,215 meters (13,828 feet), rewarding you with spectacular, sweeping views across the entire mountain chain. This accomplishment is a major milestone of the entire journey.
Following the descent to the Pacaymayu valley, you will refuel with lunch and prepare for a second, gentler ascent to the Runkurakay Pass. Along the way, you will visit the beautiful oval ruins of Runkurakay and the sophisticated, half-moon ruins of Sayaqmarka, learning about the Inca's impressive architectural prowess.
The final stretch of the day is a welcome change, featuring a descent that leads the group deeper into the cloud forest ecosystem. The second night’s camp is established in Chaquiqocha, a tranquil site offering magnificent views of the valley, where you can rest your legs and reflect on the day’s monumental effort.

Chaquiqocha to Phuyupatamarka to Wiñay WaynaDay 03
Today is considered the most visually stunning, as the trail transitions completely into the lush, humid, and vibrant high jungle, often called the "Cloud Forest." The walk begins easily and soon reveals a series of magnificent, well-preserved Inca sites like Phuyupatamarka ("Town in the Clouds") and Intipata, providing breathtaking panoramic views.
The trail then descends dramatically down original Inca stone stairways, surrounded by exotic orchids and diverse flora and fauna. This section showcases the Incas' mastery of stone engineering, feeling like a true step back in time. The air is dense with humidity and the fresh scent of the forest.
The trek culminates at the final campsite near the stunning ruin of Wiñay Wayna ("Forever Young"), which you will have time to explore before nightfall. Here, you will share the last celebratory camp dinner with your fellow trekkers and the dedicated team of porters and cooks who made your adventure possible.

Wiñay Wayna to Inti Punku to Machu Picchu to CuscoDay 04
The final day starts exceptionally early with a wake-up call at 3:30 AM to allow time for a quick breakfast and to queue at the final checkpoint before dawn. The objective is to be one of the first groups to reach the Sun Gate (Inti Punku) just as the sun rises, casting a magical light over the silhouette of Machu Picchu below.
The descent from Inti Punku to the citadel offers unforgettable, classic views, arriving at the main site before the large crowds arrive by bus. You will enjoy a comprehensive 1.5-hour guided tour of the temples, plazas, and sectors of this magnificent lost city, learning about its history and purpose.
After the tour, you will take the bus down to the bustling town of Aguas Calientes. From there, you will board the Expedition train to Ollantaytambo, where a private transfer will be waiting to take you directly back to your hotel in Cusco, completing this legendary pilgrimage.