Inca Trail to Machu Picchu
Day 01: Embark on an exciting journey through Peru starting in Cusco, the vibrant capital. Upon arrival, a friendly tour representative will greet you and escort you to your hotel. After settling in, join fellow travelers for a brief meeting in the lobby. Arrive early to catch the half-day city tour, exploring the captivating mix of Spanish and Andean cultures in Imperial Cusco City. Marvel at landmarks like Santo Domingo Convent and the majestic Inca Palace. Discover ancient history at Sacsayhuaman and explore the Inca archaeological wonders at Pucapucara, Quengo, and Tambomachay.
Day 02: Embark on an adventure through the Pisac Route to reach the Sacred Valley Of The Incas. Explore the renowned Ccochawasi Animal Sanctuary, home to fascinating creatures like the Candor, Alpaca, Puma, and Llama. Continue your journey to the Mirador Of Taray for stunning views of the sun-kissed Urubamba Valley. Discover the ancient Pisac archaeological site, boasting the largest Inca cemetery with over 2000 tombstones. Marvel at the vast terraces of the Maray archaeological site and wander through the charming colonial town of Maras. Conclude your expedition in Ollantaytambo, a hub of Inca heritage, before boarding the Expedition train to Aguas Calientes.
Day 03: Begin your journey along the renowned Classic Inca Trail bright and early. Head towards Piskacucho to start your adventure. Enjoy a morning meal in Ollantaytambo before crossing the formidable Vilcanota River. The initial leg of the trip offers relatively easy terrain with captivating vistas including the Incan Fortress, Urubamba mountain range, Llactapata, the snow-capped Wakay Willca peak, and the expansive Andes. Set up camp in Ayapata Village for the night and wake up to breathtaking views of the Veronica mountains and valleys the next day.
Day 04: Indulge in a hearty breakfast at dawn before tackling the challenging ascent to Abra de Warrmihuanusca, also known as ‘Dead Woman’s Pass’, standing at 4200m/13779ft. Take a breather at the summit before descending towards Pacaymayu, where vibrant hummingbirds and various bird species await your gaze. Following lunch, brace yourself for another steep two-hour climb to Runkuraqay Pass (nearly 4000m/13,123ft). Reach the campsite by nightfall, ready to rest and recharge for the adventures ahead.
Day 05: Embark on the third day of the Inca Trail journey, where awe awaits at every turn. Begin by ascending to Phuyupatamarca, reaching the trail’s third-highest point, and soak in breathtaking vistas of mountains and canyons. Traverse a winding path through the enchanting cloud forest, conquering 3000 steps to unveil the majestic Intipata ruins. Rejuvenate at Winay Wayna campsite with a hearty lunch and well-deserved rest.
Day 06: Embark on the Inca Trail before sunrise, aiming to reach Machu Picchu’s Sun Gate by early morning. Marvel at the awe-inspiring Machu Picchu Citadel and explore its intricate temple. Descend into the citadel via the House of the Guardians and delve into a guided tour of ancient Inca streets and ruins. Discover the town square’s stone stairway carvings and consider climbing Huayna Picchu or enjoying the local hot springs. Conclude the journey with a scenic ride aboard the Vista Dome Train back to Cusco.
Day 07: Embark on an exhilarating journey to Rainbow Mountain, departing from the hotel at dawn. Traverse the stunning South Valley, admiring Inca terraces and rugged landscapes. Trek alongside llamas and alpacas, crossing streams, until reaching the vibrant Rainbow Mountain after 4-5 hours. Capture its beauty, then descend and return to Cusco for a well-deserved rest at the hotel.
Day 08: Join the thrilling Skylodge Adventure today or opt for your return flight home if you haven’t registered yet. Your journey begins with a hotel pickup for a captivating tour of the Sacred Valley of the Incas. Scale the guided Via Ferrata to uncover wonders above and zip line to the base tomorrow. Enjoy dinner in the glass capsule at night. This adventure promises an unforgettable experience in Peru.
Day 09: Enjoy a delightful breakfast at seven, followed by an exhilarating descent via guided zip-lining from the Skylodge. Arrive in Cusco City by approximately three in the afternoon, ensuring ample time to catch your flight back home. Bid farewell to your companions and guide, cherishing the unforgettable moments captured on camera and the plethora of travel memories you’ve amassed to take home with you.