Classic Inca Trail 4 days To Machu Picchu

We wake up around 6:00 am, and after breakfast, we leave Wayllabamba to begin the most challenging part of the trek: a steep and abrupt ascent stretching for 9 km. During this climb, the landscape gradually shifts from sierra to puna, a dry, high-altitude area with sparse vegetation. Along the way, to the first mountain pass, Abra Warmihuañusca (Pass of the Dead Woman), we pass domesticated llamas and alpacas grazing on ichu, one of the few plants that thrive at this altitude. Additionally, the changing terrain offers an ever-evolving view, making every step of the journey both physically demanding and visually captivating. Moreover, we cross an area of the cloud forest, a habitat teeming with a variety of birds, including hummingbirds and sparrows. If we're lucky, we might even catch a glimpse of the elusive Andean bear, also known as the spectacled bear (Tremarctus ornatus).

We advise that on this day especially, your day pack is well stocked with sweets, chocolates and coca leaves that will keep your sugar level high and help you with altitude sickness. Immediately after the pass, we descend to the Pacaymayo valley (3600 msnm ), where we camp after approximately 6 hours of walking.

This day is the longest, but also the most impressive and the most interesting, due to the number of archeological sites we visit and learn from our guide. From Pacaymayo we go up to the second pass, the Abra de Runkurakay (3970 msnm). Half way, we visit the archeological complex with the same name. This site, located at 3800 msnm, consists of a small oval structure that is believed to have served the purpose of a watch-tower. After passing it , we descend towards Yanacocha (Laguna Negra) and enter the cloud forest to finally reach Sayacmarca (3624 msnm ). This is a beautiful complex formed by a semi-circular construction, along with enclosures at different levels, narrow streets, liturgical fountains, patios, and irrigation channels. In addition, the layout of the site showcases a harmonious blend of architecture and nature, offering visitors a unique glimpse into the ingenuity of its creators.

Continuing with a gentle ascent, we eventually arrive at the third pass, the Abra of Phuyupatamarca (3700 meters above sea level). Along this stretch, we are able to appreciate the incredible craftsmanship of the Incas, walking along paths that are slightly separated from the mountain, while observing rocks carefully arranged to fill the ravines in perfect order, seamlessly adapting to the varied Andean geography. This section of the classic Inca Trail 4 days showcases some of the most impressive engineering along the route. Along the way, we also pass through an Inca tunnel, which leads us directly to the pass. From there, we begin our descent to the complex of the same name, where we can explore and take in the stunning surroundings.

This is one of the most complete and best preserved archeological complexes along the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, and it is located at the highest point of a mountain. Curiously, Phuyupatamarca means "town above the clouds." From above, you can see a sophisticated sacred complex formed by water sources with solid foundations, and also impressive views of the Urubamba river valley and the long descending stone steps along which we will continue to Wiñaywayna (2700 msnm). In this camp-site we find a Hostel with a Restaurant-Bar and bathrooms with hot showers .

On this fourth and last day, we get up at 4.00 am to leave Wiñaywayna an hour later and go up to Intipunku, or the Puerta del Sol. This will take an hour of walking along a path of flat stones on the edges from the cliffs in the highland jungle. From this fabulous place, we can see the sunrise over the sacred citadel of Machu Picchu. From Intipunku we descend to Machu Picchu, and 40 minutes later we enter the citadel from the highest point through the "House of the Guardians".

Then we descend to the control point where we register and leave our backpacks. We immediately begin a complete guided tour of the Inca citadel that will last approximately two hours. Then you will have free time to walk, climb the Huaynapicchu mountain, where you can enjoy spectacular views of Machu Picchu, the valleys and mountains that surround it, or visit the Temple of the Moon and the fabulous Inca Bridge. In the afternoon, we meet in the town of Aguas Calientes where, if you wish, you can visit and relax in the thermal baths. From here we take the train to the city of Cusco.

Where does the Classic Inca Trail start?

The Classic Inca Trail 4 days begins at kilometer 82 of the railway line between Cusco and Aguas Calientes, near the town of Ollantaytambo in the Sacred Valley. This is the official starting point of the trek, where travelers register with their permits and begin the journey along ancient Inca paths. From this point, the trail winds through diverse landscapes, including high Andean plains, cloud forests and archaeological sites hidden deep in the mountains.

Starting at kilometer 82 allows hikers to gradually adapt to the altitude and enjoy a well-paced trek through key cultural and natural highlights. The route is carefully designed to build up toward the grand finale at Machu Picchu, which is reached on the fourth day through the iconic Sun Gate. The Classic Inca Trail 4 days offers not just a destination, but a full experience that begins the moment you step onto the trail.

Tour Map Classic Inca Trail 4 days To Machu Picchu

Explore the full route of the Classic Inca Trail 4 days to Machu Picchu with our detailed tour map. Follow this legendary path through high mountain passes, cloud forests, and ancient Inca sites like Runkurakay and Phuyupatamarca, all leading to the majestic Sun Gate and Machu Picchu.