Highlight of the day: See stunning scenery as you visit archaeological sites and get your first glimpse of Machu Picchu.
Walk in Ancient Footsteps and Transport Back in Time
Snacks, Box Lunch, and Dinner
Meals
Hotel
Accommodation
Moderate
Difficulty
9 km / 5.6 miles
Walking Distance
5 to 6 hours
Walking Time
2,100 m / 6,890 ft
Starting Elevation
2,040 m / 6,693 ft
Min. Elevation
2,720 m / 8,924 ft
Highest Elevation
2,040 m / 6,693 ft
Accommodation Elevation
Today, you’ll set off early to drive to Ollantaytambo, then catch a train to KM 104 to start the hike. You’ll trek through some stunning landscapes with lush vegetation and gigantic mountains and stop off at fascinating Inca archaeological sites to learn all about the ancient culture (Chachabamba and Wiñay Wayna, among others). End your day’s hike by arriving at the Sun Gate, looking out over the mystical Machu Picchu for the first time, and taking some fantastic photos. You’ll then take a bus down to Aguas Calientes, where you’ll enjoy dinner in a nice restaurant and spend the night in a comfortable hotel.
Your adventure will begin bright and early, with a pickup from your hotel at 4:00 a.m. We’ll head out for a journey of approximately one and a half hours to the charming town of Ollantaytambo. Here, we’ll board the first train to KM 104, the starting point of our trek. Along the way, you will be greeted by the stunning Andean mountains, fertile fields, and the Urubamba River, basking in the warm embrace of the morning sun. Before the hike, you’ll have a brief orientation with the guide, a box lunch, and some snacks to enjoy later.
You’ll start on a similar stretch of the Classic Inca Trail, visiting the first archaeological site nearby: Chachabamba. This was once a strategic guard post and checkpoint for those accessing the Inca Trail. Your guide will stop briefly to share some fascinating first insights about the Inca’s history. From here, the actual hike begins for another 3 hours to the Wiñay Wayna Complex. Along the way, you’ll be surrounded by lush vegetation and towering mountains, offering breathtaking valley views.
This site’s astounds most trekkers for its impressive architecture. You’ll explore its features, from a ritualistic water source to temples venerating natural forces and agricultural terraces blending with the mountains. It’ll be a window into the Incan legacy. While there, you’ll have enough time to relax, unwind in peace, and connect to Mother Nature through the refreshing breeze. A little further on, you’ll arrive at one of the campsites of the Classic Inca Trail. Here, you’ll enjoy a tasty lunchbox, chill out, and recharge your energies.
Next, we’ll continue hiking to the Sun Gate, getting your first panoramic view of the awe-inspiring Machu Picchu. It’ll be a truly jaw-dropping experience! You’ll marvel at the ingenuity of the Incas in constructing such a marvel. The enchanting landscape invites introspection into their connection with nature. You won't enter the citadel immediately. The departing tourists grant you the chance to bask in the golden hues of sunset, embracing the massive stone walls and offering a moment of tranquility.
For now, we’ll head to the exit to take a bus to Aguas Calientes. Your hotel stay awaits, but first, you’ll enjoy a delectable dinner at one of the town's top restaurants. Make sure to rest early, as you’ll be waking up at dawn for your next adventure.