Journey at the Pace of the Andes: Exploring Inca Heritage & Cloud ForestsCUSCO – KM 82 (PISKACUCHO) – PATALLACTADay 01
The adventure begins with an early morning pickup from your hotel in Cusco, where you will board private transportation destined for the Sacred Valley. The scenic drive takes you through picturesque Andean villages, offering your first glimpse of the stunning mountain landscapes that await. Upon arrival at Km 82 (Piscacucho), the official starting point, you will cross the Urubamba River and present your required permits to begin your legendary trek.
The initial section of the trail is relatively gentle, providing a perfect opportunity to acclimatize and settle into the rhythm of the mountains. This 6 km walk follows the river's edge, offering rewarding views of the snowy peaks of the Vilcanota range and the first encounters with ancient Inca stonework. A welcome, hearty lunch is served near the trail, rejuvenating you before the afternoon's activities.
The day concludes as you arrive at the first campsite near the impressive archaeological site of Patallacta (2,650m). After the porters have set up your comfortable tents, you will receive a guided tour of this extensive Inca settlement, known for its strategic agricultural terraces. As the sun begins to set over the Andes, you will enjoy a fulfilling dinner, preparing for the deeper challenges of the days ahead.

PATALLACTA – WAYLLABAMBA – LLULLUCHAPAMPADay 02
After an early and strengthening breakfast, you begin a beautiful ascent through the vibrant Kusichaca Valley, a lush environment rich in Andean flora and fauna. This section of the trail is marked by ancient Inca roads and small streams, providing a captivating trek to the community of Wayllabamba, where a well-deserved lunch is served.
In the afternoon, the trek becomes more demanding as you begin the serious climb into the high mountain environment towards the Llullucha Valley. This challenging segment is a 4-hour uphill trek that truly tests your endurance, pushing you higher into the remote and rugged landscapes. Your guide will maintain a comfortable pace, ensuring that you manage the altitude effectively while appreciating the changing ecosystems around you.
The day's challenging journey culminates upon reaching the Llulluchapampa (3,800m) campsite. You will be warmly welcomed by the support team with hot tea and snacks for 'tea time,' allowing you to quickly relax and recover. The evening is spent enjoying another delicious dinner, followed by a restful night under the stars to mentally and physically prepare for tomorrow's monumental climb over Dead Woman's Pass.

LLULLUCHAPAMPA – PAQAYMAYU – CH’AQICOCHA – PHUYUPATAMARCADay 03
This is the longest and most scenically diverse day, beginning with the most demanding challenge: the steep, two-hour climb to the highest point of the Inca Trail. Conquering the Warmiwañusca Pass, or Dead Woman's Pass (4,215m), rewards you with truly breathtaking, panoramic views across the entire mountain range—a moment of profound personal achievement. A steep descent follows into the Pacaymayu Valley, where you’ll enjoy a crucial midday lunch and rest.
The afternoon introduces you to more history, beginning with a steady ascent to visit the circular Inca ruin of Runcurakay (3,800m), immediately followed by crossing the second pass. The trail then descends, leading you through stunning architecture to the magnificent ruins of Sayacmarca (3,600m). Here, your guide will provide an in-depth visit, showcasing the Incas' sophisticated engineering marvels built right into the mountain edge.
The final stretch is a stunning path through the high cloud forest, culminating at the incredible Phuyupatamarca (3,650m) campsite, aptly named 'The Town in the Clouds.' As the afternoon turns to evening, you will be treated to spectacular, unobstructed sunset views of the surrounding peaks, including a distant glimpse of Machu Picchu mountain, providing a magical backdrop for your final dinner on the trail.

PHUYUPATAMARCA – WIÑAY WAYNA – MACHU PICCHU – AGUAS CALIENTESDay 04
Day four is a historical reward. The morning begins with a descent down magnificent Inca steps, leading first to the impressive archaeological site of Intipata and then onward to the remarkable Wiñay Wayna (2,650m) complex. This large and beautifully situated ruin is explored during a comprehensive guided tour before you enjoy a celebratory final lunch with your porter team.
Building anticipation, the afternoon's journey involves a relatively flat, hour-long trek through the lush cloud forest to the legendary Sun Gate (Inti Punku) (2,720m). This is the emotional moment you catch your very first, dramatic, panoramic view of the Citadel of Machu Picchu from above—a truly unforgettable sight after days of trekking.
The final walk is the descent from Inti Punku to the famous Guardian's House for the iconic postcard photo opportunity. You will then take a comfortable bus ride down to the town of Aguas Calientes. You'll check into your 3-star hotel for a much-anticipated shower and restful night, preparing for tomorrow's grand exploration of the citadel.

AGUAS CALIENTES – MACHU PICCHU – CUSCODay 05
The final morning begins with an extremely early bus ride up to the citadel to ensure you witness the unforgettable moment of sunrise over Machu Picchu (weather permitting). Once inside the citadel, you will embark on a comprehensive two-hour guided tour of the most important sectors and temples, allowing you to fully absorb the history and mystery of this Lost City of the Incas.
After the guided visit, you will have ample independent time to continue exploring the different corners of the citadel, reflect on your achievement, and take final photographs. You will then take the bus back down to Aguas Calientes, where you will have time to enjoy a final lunch at a local restaurant on your own before preparing for the return trip.
The return journey is via the comfortable Expedition Tourist Train through the Sacred Valley to Ollantaytambo. Upon arrival, a private transport will be waiting to transfer you directly and comfortably back to your hotel in Cusco. This concludes your incredible 5-day Inca Trail adventure, with an approximate arrival time in the city of Cusco around 7:00 p.m.
