The Inca Trail to Machu Picchu (meaning ‘Mother Earth’) is rated amongst the ten best trekking trails in the world, with its striking beauty, ancient Inca ruins and diverse ecological zones. This route includes a host of terrains, from high desert plateau to tropical Andean rainforest.
Our ultimate destination is Machu Picchu, the ‘Lost City’ of the Incas, one of the world’s most important archaeological finds. With its many temples, altars, terraces, fountains and chambers, all displaying intricate stonework, you’ll get a glimpse of what the ancient Inca world must have been like.
Day 6
River Pacamayo – Runku Raccay – Phuyu Pata Marca – Winay Wayna
8-10 hours approximately
A long and challenging day, but the wealth of archaeological treasures you’ll encounter make it one of the most rewarding. Begin with a steep ascent through Runkuracay (3800m), onto the well-preserved Inca ruins at Sayaqmarca (3600m). Then through lush forest valley before stopping for lunch at Chaquiqocha – meaning ‘dry lake’.
After lunch, climb to Phuyu Pata Marca (Town above the Clouds), where the spectacular view lives up to its name. Finally, down to the campsite, with a small bar where you can enjoy a well-earned drink.
Day 7
Winay Wayna – Intipunku – Machu Picchu – Aguas Calientes
3 hours approximately
An early start to reach Intipunku (Gates of the Sun) for sunrise. Then trek for around two hours to reach Machu Picchu, the awe-inspiring Lost City of the Incas. Before lunch, you’ll have a guided tour of this world-famous site for two to three hours.
In the afternoon, you can choose to explore Machu Picchu, climb the nearby Huayna Picchu Mountain, or take a relaxing dip in the thermal springs. In the evening, enjoy a meal together to celebrate the end of the hike.
