The Inca Trail to Machu Picchu is just a small section of an immense system of roads that interconnected the entire Inca empire 500 years ago, known as the Qapac Ñan roads. Becoming one with nature on this ancient trail and reaching the amazing Inca citadel of Machu Picchu on foot can be life-changing.
Very early in the morning (6.00 am), our vehicle with a MACHUPICCHU AGENCY staff, following our BIOSECURITY protocols will pick you up from your home or previously agreed point, to take you to the railway station, and start the adventure at 7:02 am, to make a picturesque journey of about three and a half hours, to the starting point of the trek, at Km. 104 of the railway that connects Cusco to Machu Picchu Pueblo.
Once there, we check in at the checkpoint before crossing the Vilcanota River. On the other side of the bridge, the road turns to the right, towards the Inca Architectural Complex of Chachabamba which was discovered in 1940, and is located on the ancient Inca road that ran alongside the south bank of the Vilcanota River.
The style of edificios y works in stone suggest that Chachabamba fue un lugar important, dedicated to spiritual activities, and that assumed the function secondary of post of control, guarding this access road to Machu Picchu. From Chachabamba, the Inca Trail heads south, and climbs up the side of the mountain, penetrating some forests and crossing a small stream. Then, the trail turns west, and continues uphill, leaving the woods behind, to cross open grasslands.
About two hours and a half after having left Chachabamba, the road descends in a floresta, e we enter in zone of shadow, for after of some minutes more, we find a beautiful waterfall, where we can enjoy for a few minutes before of continue the road and arrive at the foot of the beautiful Inca Architectural Complex of Wiñay Huayna. From this point, it will be a walk of 25 to 30 minutes, to reach the Interpretation Center that bears the same name, we will visit the complex with the explanations of our guide, we will admire the urban area, above the terraces staggered. Afterwards, we will pass by a series of Inca ritual baths and fountains, and follow the road, to the second checkpoint.
Passing the control in the direction of Machu Picchu, we will take the beautiful Inca trail in the middle of the cloud forest for about 2 hours, and we will find the famous stairs of 50
steps that lead to the final stretch, which is the Inti Punku or Portal del Sol, from where we will have a full panoramic view of Machu Picchu which will extend before our eyes, as an unexpected and unforgettable vision.
We will continue our way to Machu Picchu, enjoying the beautiful scenery, to finally arrive in Machu Picchu, around 4:00 in the afternoon.
You will have a short time to take the first photos of Machu Picchu, but, with many eager, you will have to wait until the following day, to take a more extensive guided tour of the Sacred Inca City.
We will board the bus that leads to Machu Picchu town, to be installed in the hotel, at night we can freely search the best place to enjoy dinner.
After a good night’s sleep at the lodge, we will wake up very early to to the archaeological complex of Machu Picchu. The checkpoint at the entrance to Machu Picchu is open for visitors from 6:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. It is important to emphasize that this hike is of moderate difficulty since there are mountainous stretches which can be very demanding, however, there is the option of taking a bus for US$ 12.00 extra. Once we arrive at the Inca citadel we will have a guided tour for approximately 2 hours according to the route of our ticket. The Incas managed to build a safe, sustainable and well planned city on the mountains thanks to a deep relationship with nature.
After the tour, you can climb Huayna Picchu, for this it is very important to book your tickets in advance. The level of difficulty of this hike is moderate – high and the time it takes to go up and down is approximately 3 hours. After enjoying this magical citadel, you will return to the town of Aguas Calientes where, approximately between 01:37 p.m.- 06:20 p.m. (subject to availability), we will take the train back to Ollantaytambo. This journey takes 2 hours. In Ollantaytambo we will board a bus that will take us back to Cusco. Arrival to the city is at approximately 09:00 p.m.
Get Ready to Explore? With your booking confirmed, all that's left to do is pack your bags and get ready to explore. Whether you're a seasoned traveler or embarking on your first journey, we'll be with you every step of the way. At Machu Picchu Agency, we believe that every journey begins with a single step. So why wait? Start your adventure today and let the world be your guide.
Book fast and easy on our website and keep track of your reservation with our most advanced booking system, be updated on our discounts every week.
Machu Picchu Agency it’s the people who make a difference. Our travel experts craft the perfect trip for every traveler through our award-winning customer service. Real people helping real people. Beside you every step of the way.
Cusco, the ancient capital of the Inca Empire, is one of the most popular destinations for adventure treks in South Amer
Read moreThe Inca Trail is a world-renowned hiking trail that leads to the iconic Machu Picchu in Peru. The trail is a combinatio
Read moreMachu Picchu is a stunning 15th-century Inca ruin located high in the Andes Mountains of Peru. It is considered one of t
Read more
