Cusco - Perolniyoq - Waterfall - Kuychiqasa Pass

Cusco Region - The guide will collect travelers from their hotel at 5:30 AM to commence the journey. The drive to Soqma (3,205 m/10,512 feet) takes approximately one hour and forty-five minutes. Upon arrival, the trailhead introduces the horses and crew.

Socma Perolniyoc - The hike begins with a one and a half hour trek to the Perolniyoc cascade and viewpoint. The waterfall is stunning, and a short trek to its base offers fantastic photo opportunities and a chance to cool off if it’s warm. Continuing for 45 minutes, the path leads to the Rayan Pre-Inca site, perched on a clifftop with breathtaking views of the valley below. The climb continues for nearly an hour to reach Rayan (3,700 m/12,139 feet), providing a perfect spot for relaxation and refreshment before the afternoon trek.

The afternoon features a challenging 3-hour ascent to the Kuychowiczasa pass (4,450 m/14,599 ft), offering spectacular views of snow-capped mountains and rural estates at every turn. At the summit, travelers can catch their breath and admire the Sacred Valley of the Incas and Chankachuco Valley.

Perolniyoq Waterfall - From this viewpoint, a 25-minute descent leads to the campsite on level ground at 4,400 m or 14,435 ft. The trek covers twelve kilometers (7.4 miles) and is demanding, typically taking seven to eight hours. Views include the Pre-Inca Mountains range and the Perolniyoq waterfall. Accommodation is at Chankachuko or Kuychicasa, depending on the distance covered.

Intipunku - Yanakaka - Cahiqata Quarry

Inti Punku Sun Gate - The morning begins with a 1.5-hour climb featuring alternating ascents and descents. A 2.5-hour descent follows to Inti Punku in the Sacred Valley, offering a breathtaking view of Mount Veronica (5,682 m/18,637 ft) and the Sacred Valley of the Incas. It’s an ideal spot to observe the Inca pyramid’s construction.

After a brief rest, the trek continues for an hour downhill from Inti Punku to Choquetacarpo (3,600 m/11,808 ft.), where a stone quarry for Ollantaytambo and other Inca structures can be found.

Inca Trail to Machupicchu - Sunset at Machupicchu

Ollantaytambo - Following breakfast, travelers will leisurely walk to the Ollantaytambo train station. The train journey to KM 104 passes through the picturesque Sacred Valley countryside, winding through the magnificent Andes along the ancient Inca road.

Chachabamba - The first Inca site encountered is Chachabamba, a small archaeological complex believed to have served as a guard post for Machu Picchu.

Winay Wayna - The path gently ascends for over three hours to reach 8,690 feet (2,650 meters). Wiñay Wayna, meaning “eternal youth” in Quechua, is considered the most beautiful and well-preserved Incan site on the Inca Trail. It is also the last urban center before reaching the Machu Picchu fortress.

Intipuncu - After lunch and a tour of Wiñaywayna, travelers stop at the “Sun Gate,” offering a stunning view of Machu Picchu. From Inti Punku, a 45-minute descent along the paved Inca Road leads to the citadel’s main structures, providing breathtaking panoramic views.

Santuario Historico de Machu Picchu - Enjoy the sunset at Machu Picchu.

Finally, board a bus to Aguas Calientes for dinner and an overnight stay in a charming Machu Picchu hotel. The trek to Machu Picchu covers eight miles (13 kilometers). Minimum altitude: 2,030 meters, or 6,656 feet. Peak altitude: 2,650 meters, or 8,690 feet.

Aguas Calientes - Overnight stay in Aguas Calientes.

Machupicchu - Wonder of the World

Aguas Calientes - After an early breakfast, head to the bus station for a 25-minute ride to the Sanctuary of Machu Picchu, where an incredible guided tour of the citadel begins.

Machupicchu Cusco - Arriving at the citadel by 5 a.m. allows visitors to witness the sunrise over the Inca ruins. The Incas, known for their remarkable artistry, were skilled architects and engineers. The lush, rugged mountains contrast sharply with the precision of the chiseled walls. Machu Picchu is divided into three zones: agricultural, urban, and outskirt.

Temple of the Sun - The urban area features several temples, including the Temple of the Sun, the Royal Tomb, ceremonial fountains, the Royal Palace, the Temple of the Three Windows, the Main Temple, the Intiwatana, and more. The agricultural field includes the funeral rock and cemetery. An additional ticket purchase allows for more exploration time.

Huayna Picchu - Alternative sites outside the town include Intipunku, the Temple of the Moon, Huayna Picchu, or the Drawbridge. Adventurous visitors can climb the nearby mountain, Huayna Picchu, in 45 minutes. Note that park officials limit daily visits to Huayna Picchu to 400, so tickets must be secured well in advance. Tickets permit climbing between 7 and 10 a.m.

Aguas Calientes - After a day at Machu Picchu, travelers will take a bus back to Aguas Calientes and then a train back to Cusco, where an agent will meet them for a hotel transfer.

Huayna Picchu - Adapt: Climb Huayna Picchu, a hilltop offering views of the Machu Picchu ruins below. Although challenging and requiring about two hours for a round trip, it provides spectacular views. The cost is USD 79; please inform us if you wish to include this in your itinerary.

• Machupicchu entrance, Perolniyoq entrance ticket, and Inca Trail permits
• First aid kit, oxygen tank, and 24-hour assistance
• Transportation from Cusco to the head trail
• Tents for dining, cooking, and camping, as well as chairs and other furnishings
• Guide, head chef, assistant chef, porters, horseman, and horses for equipment
• Snacks, fruit flavor, culinary adventure, drinkable water, and hot beverages throughout the trek
• 2 nights camping and one-night stay at a hotel with private bathroom, free wifi, and hot shower
• Meals: 3 breakfasts, 3 lunches, and 3 dinners

• Travel insurance, train tickets, personal expenses, and gratitude

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.