Day 2: Trek to Pacaymayo

After breakfast, trekkers start on a steeper trail up through a forest thick with Andean flowers and song of small birds. Crossing the Llulluchayoc and Huayruru Rivers, the hike becomes more difficult but the truly spectacular scenery more than compensates for the effort. The trail continues upward through a forest with ice-covered streamlets. Vegetation thins and the day warms on the approach to Warmiwañusqa (“dead woman”) pass. This is the highest point of the trail:  4,200mt-13,775ft. On the way to the pass there is a forest of queñual (polylepis) trees. This endangered species is one the highest (altitude-wise) growing trees in the world. After crossing the pass we enter the cloud forest; warmer temperatures and more vegetation. Just on the far side of the pass we’ll lunch and take in an unforgettable view of the surrounding mountain ranges and valleys. After a steep descent (a type that makes it impossible to use pack animals on the Inca Trail) the route cuts through a peaceful meadow with waterfalls, creeks, lakes and tiny Andean wild flowers. Campsite (3,350mt/10,988ft) is on the Pacaymayu River. There is a multitude of bird life around the campsite. All meals are included.

Trek distance: 6.2 miles/10 km. – 7-8 hours

Day 3: Trek to Wiñay Wayna

After being awakened by bird song in early morning, the group climbs an Inca stairway to the fortified ruins of Runkurakay (3,700mt-12,136ft). This was an Inca “tambo” or post-house. Here begins the final push to Runkurakay pass (3,850 mt-12,628ft) with its magnificent views of small lakes, gorges and spectacular Pumasillo (6,246mt-20,486ft) in the Vilcabamba range. The stonework on this stretch of the Inca Trail is well preserved. The trail starts a steady descent into a unique ecological area: a high jungle transitional zone rich in wildlife with a milder climate. The area is home to many species of exotic birds; Andean guan, gray-breasted mountain toucan and red-crested cotinga among others. After visiting the impressive ruins of Sayacmarca which overlook the Aobamba valley, the trail soon passes through a natural tunnel used by the Incas. We’ll continue on to camp at Wiñay Wayna (2,650m-8692ft). All meals are included.Trek distance: 4.4 miles/7 km. – 6-7 hours.

Day 4: Trek to Machu Picchu

This morning, we’ll say goodbye to our porters as they transport the equipment back to Cusco. Wiñay Wayna (“forever young”, 2,650mt-8,692ft). This is a descent down a steep staircase of over two thousand steps! Wiñay Wayna was an important administrative and agricultural center. We are now entering the cloud forest. Here, the jungle becomes denser and greener. A myriad of multicolored orchids festoon the trail. There are great views of the Urubamba river gorge and its mountains. Arriving at Intipunku (“sun gate”), we’ll pause to rest with plenty of time to photograph the first overview of Machu Picchu (“old peak”). From Intipunku, it’s a short hike down to Machu Picchu (2,400mt- 7,874ft). and enjoy a guided-tour through the ruins. After the tour there will be plenty of time to wander around on your own and appreciate the beauty and mystery of this architectural marvel. It’s possible to climb Wayna Picchu (“young peak”, 2,700mt/8,856ft), the jutting peak overlooking the ruins. Around mid-afternoon, we’ll take the bus back to the train station for the return trip to our hotel in Cusco.. All meals are included. Trek distance: 5.6 miles/9 km. – 6-7 hours

INCLUDES

• Bilingual guide (English-Spanish), an assistant guide accompanies groups of 8 or more.
• Trip briefing before departure.
• Bus to the trailhead, return tourist train to Cusco and hotel transportation.
• Permit and entrance fees to the Inca Trail and Machu Picchu.
• Bus ticket: Machu Picchu /Aguas Calientes.
• All meals on the itinerary. Vegetarian meals on request at no extra cost.
• Porters for heavy passenger equipment and general camp gear.
• Maximum porter weight per passenger: 6kg/13lbs. We supply all porter provisions and insurance in case of accidents and/or illness.
• Camping equipment: double tents, sleeping pad, kitchen/dining tents, tables, stools, all kitchen gear. There are basic toilet facilities at each campsite.
• Standard trekking services include camp cook and assistant(s).
• First-aid kit and oxygen.
• All trash produced during the trek returns to Cusco.

NOT INCLUDED

• International or domestic flights. Domestic flights: Lima-Cusco-Lima:
• Accommodation.
• Single tent available $25
• Any expenses incurred in preparing for the trip, such as, but not limited to, non-refundable airline tickets or travel insurance, nor additional expenses encountered as a result of flight or train schedule changes, delays, strikes, cancellations, missed connections, acts of God or war.
• Personal items like individual gear, sleeping bag (Kallpa travel rents sleeping bags: $25 per person for entire trek), medicines, laundry, telephone calls, etc.
• Gratuities.

Important: read our Terms & conditions.

WHAT TO BRING

The area where we are going to do our adventure half day tour is in Cusco and its surroundings. Despite of the time of the year, there are always seasonal variations: it can be sunny and still cold or rainy but dry and kind of mild. Tourists must be ready and equipped to enjoy their tour under safe conditions. The following packing list gathers items that you will need for this tour.

Clothing

• Wear clothes in layers: It is hard to guess what the weather will be like, that’s why layering is really helpful. Make sure you are using wickable clothes, cotton ones keep much moisture on them.
• Use short or long-sleeved t-shirts for your first layer.
• Pack lightweight jackets of fleece or microfleece for the second layer.
• Wear a waterproof jacket for the third layer.
• Carry gloves to protect your hands from the cold.
• Wear hiking boots or trekking shoes.
• Use thick socks
• Pack a hat in case is going to be sunny day.

Additional Accessories

• Lip balm.
• Sunglases.
• Sun cream.
• Baby wipes.
• Hand sanitizer.
• Trekking poles.
• Batteries or flashcards for your camera.

Snacks & Drinks

• Energetic bars.
• Dried fruit.
• Bottle of water (1-2 Lt).
• Candies

Beware that there will possibly be no signal for cell phones up in the mountain. Personal identifications are always required.