DAY 1: PISKACUCHO KM 82 – TO WAYLLABAMBA

Firstly, to start our adventure through the classic Inca trail trek, Destiny Cusco Adventures will pick you up from wherever you are staying in Cusco, Urubamba, or Ollantaytambo. Pick-up from Cusco will be between 4 to 5 AM, from Urubamba or Ollantaytambo will be confirmed at your briefing. Subsequently, We will board our private transportation for the 1.5 hour trip into the Sacred Valley of the Incas. Upon reaching the end of the road, known as kilometer 82 ” first Inca Trail checkpoint to begin our trek”. Here we will briefly introduce you to our crew and upon crossing the bridge at the Urubamba River. So, here begins our 4-day adventure or 4 day classic Inca trail hike. This first day is relatively easy-going and smooth as we move along visiting ruins such as the city of Patallacta. It was a very important center that had administrative, economic, and religious functions. We will also visit Willkarakay, a military post located above the site of Patallacta. Consequently, after visiting these two sites we will enter the lush valley of Wayllabamba. Walking along the banks of the Cusichaca (“happy bridge”) River. Continuing our gradual walk upward through the dense Andean forest. We arrived at our first campsite in Wayllabamba.

■ Walking Distance: 12km / 7.45 miles

■ Starting Elevation: 2720 meters ASL / 8923 feet ASL

■ Campsite Elevation: 3000 meters ASL / 9842 feet ASL

■ Difficulty: Moderate

■ Weather: Warm and windy

■ Meals: Lunch & Dinner (Plus snack and afternoon tea)

Accommodation: Camping in Wayllabamba

DAY 2: WAYLLABAMBA – DEAD WOMAN'S PASS – PACAYMAYU

We will begin our day very early to reach the end of the day, the highest point on the Inca trail trek. The mountain pass of Warmihuañusca (dead woman’s pass). So, the trek in the morning is rather physically intense for those who are not accustomed to the high altitude, yet it is also one of the most spectacular. In the first part of the hike of Machu Picchu, we will walk approximately 1 hour and a half through the cover of a densely vegetated area. Until arriving at the campsite of Three Stones, where we will take a short rest. Meanwhile, on our ascent, the habitat will begin to change as we enter the inter-Andean forest full of Unca trees. After that, two hours later we will arrive at another campsite, Llulluchapampa. Where we will take an extended rest with snacks and hot drinks. From here begins the final ascent to the pass of Warmihuañusca, the highest point of the trek. A fantastic opportunity for panoramic views of the surrounding valleys below. Subsequently, we will descend a few hours to our final campsite in Pacaymayu for the night.

■ Walking Distance: 12 km / 6.82 miles

■ Starting Elevation: 3000 meters ASL / 9842 feet ASL

■ Campsite Elevation: 3580 meters / 11700 feet ASL

■ Maximum Altitude: 4200 meters ASL / 13779 feet ASL (Warmy Wañuska Pass)

■ Difficulty: Challenging

■ Weather: Cold and rainy

■ Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, & Dinner (Plus snack and afternoon tea)

Accommodation: Camping in Pacaymayu

DAY 3: PACAYMAYU – CHAQUIKOCHA – WIÑAYHUAYNA

Subsequently, we will begin ascending about 45 minutes to the archaeological site of Runkurakay. Which was in ancient times a “tambo”, or type of resting lodge for ancient pilgrims. Another 45-minute ascent will take us to the second highest pass of the Inca trail trek, Runkurakay. After which we will descend to the beautiful archaeological site of Sayacmarca, constructed in a strategic location. On the other hand, after a thorough visit, we will continue down the beautifully paved road to our lunch site at Chaquicocha. From here onward to Phuyupatamarca we will enter the high Andean cloud forest, a marvelous display of Nature’s beauty. Here the hiking Machu Picchu continues a narrow ridge until arriving at the pass of Phuyupatamarka. A natural viewing area where it is possible to see the Sacred Valley and numerous mountain peaks. Subsequently, from here we will descend to our last campsite. Passing a very important archaeological site and temple designated for offerings to the sacred mountain spirits of the area. Slightly beyond is our campsite for the night, Wiñayhuayna.

■ Walking Distance: 16 km / 9.94 miles

■ Starting Elevation: 3580 meters / 11745 feet ASL

■ Maximum Altitude: 4000 meters ASL / 13123 feet ASL (Runkuracay Pass)

■ Campsite Elevation: 2680 meters ASL /8792 feet ASL

■ Difficulty: Formidable

■ Weather: Warm and very humid

■ Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation: Camping in Wiñayhuayna

DAY 4: WIÑAY WAYNA TO MACHU PICCHU

We will rise very early to complete the final stretch of the Peru Inca trail, which brings us to “Inti Punku”. Or the Sun Gate, the principal entrance of the crystal city of Machu Picchu. Most importantly, the trail here is fairly easy going. An awesome location to observe Machu Picchu and, weather permitting, it will be the best time to hike Machu Picchu. Afterward, a 45-minute descent will take us into the higher area of Machu Picchu. A natural lookout point for the “famous” classic picture and an opportunity for a group picture. So, here we will enter as a group to the main entrance for registration before returning to the site for the main tour. To clarify, the tour will last approximately 2 hours. The climb to Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu mountain is optional (at an extra cost and must be booked in advance). Consequently, in the afternoon we will descend by bus to the town of Aguas Calientes. You will meet your guide in Aguas Calientes for lunch and receive your train tickets for the return journey to Cusco. The train will arrive at Ollantaytambo where our Staff will pick you up to complete the rest of your ride by bus back to your hotel in Cusco.

■ Walking Distance: 5 km / 3.10 miles

■ Starting Elevation: 2680 meters ASL /8792 feet ASL

■ Maximum Altitude: 2730 meters ASL / 8956 feet ASL (Sun gate)

■ Difficulty: Easy

■ Weather: Hot and very humid (bring lots of water)

■ Meals: Breakfast