Journey along a section of one of the best built and oldest road systems in the world that crisscrosses the Urubamba Valley and that united the entire South American continent. The trek includes typical Andean settings, incredible archeological vestiges, a variety of microclimates and corresponding biodiversity, and the experience of camping in ancient places. Contact our Adventure Specialists Anne or Jane today to discuss your options! Call 604.736.7447 or email anne@northsouthtravel.com or jane@northsouthtravel.com
Itinerary - 4 days, 3 nights includes Vistadome Train Service
Day 1: Cusco – Huayllabamba
We will leave Cusco en route to kilometer marker 82 of the Cusco-Machu Picchu railroad, the place where we will actually launch our trek of the Inca Trail, an experience that will impel you to return. The beginning stage follows the course of the Urubamba River, located in the valley with the same name, and then gradually ascends to the Piscacucho Valley in the direction of Huayllabamba, the town where we will camp for the night.
Maximum elevation: 2954 m / 9694 ft
Minimum elevation: 2670 m / 8761 ft
Campsite elevation: 2954 m / 9694 ft
Distance: 12.00 km / 7.47 mi.
Approximate trek time: 5 – 6 hours
Day 2: Huayllabamba – Pacaymayo
The day begins with an ascent to the first and highest pass on the trail: Warmiwañusca (4200 m). This is the spot where you will have some of the best views of the Vilcabamba and Vilcanota Ranges, the white peaks, and incredible splendor that surrounds them. We continue on the trail to the Pacaymayo campsite.
Maximum elevation: 4226 m / 13866 ft
Minimum elevation: 2954 m / 9694 ft
Campsite elevation: 3500 m / 11480 ft Distance: 11.00 km / 6.84 mi.
Approximate trek time: 6 – 7 hours
Day 3: Pacaymayo – Wiñaywayna
Today, we will climb to the second pass at Runcuracay (3900 m), somewhat lower than the first. The descent from there lasts about 2 hours, and our destination is the Sayacmarca archeological complex. After a visit, we retake the road, soon finding ourselves in the typical climate of a semi tropical cloud forest as we trek towards Phuyupatamarca, the departure point for our last campsite at Wiñaywayna, where stand the remains of the second most important Incan archeological site after Machu Picchu.
Maximum elevation: 3974 m / 13039 ft
Minimum elevation: 2729 m / 8954 ft
Campsite elevation: 2650 m / 8692 ft
Distance: 16.00 km / 9.94 mi
Approximate trek time: 8 hours
Day 4: Wiñaywayna - Machupicchu - Cusco
We will head off in the direction of the famous Inti Punku or “Gateway of the Sun”, and once there we will have our first glimpse of majestic Machu Picchu. After a brief hike, we will arrive at the long awaited outpost and be rewarded with a well deserved rest, immersing ourselves in the energy that pulsates through this magical spot. Afterwards, we begin our guided tour that lasts a few hours, and then we will descend to the town of Aguas Calientes to board the train back to the city of Cusco.
Maximum elevation: 2732 m / 8964 ft
Minimum elevation: 2400 m / 7872 ft
Distance: 4.00 km / 2.49 mi
Approximate trek time: 2 hours
This tour costs $ 864.00
Limited spaces left for the end of August 2015 and September 2015.
Flight specials may be available - please contact Jane or Anne for more information today!