Duration
4 DaysStarts In
CuscoRoute
Cusco , Ollantaytambo, Aguas Calientes , Machu Picchu
Begin your journey with a scenic transfer to Ollantaytambo, exploring its historic Inca ruins and markets before starting the 4-day trek at KM 82. Hike lesser-known paths along the Urubamba River to hidden ruins like Salapunku and Patallaqta, enjoying gourmet meals and private campsites. Trek through the lush Huayllabamba Valley, ascending to Llulluchapampa for panoramic views and cultural experiences, including an Andean ceremony honoring Pachamama.
Day 3 takes you to the Inca Trail's highest points—Dead Woman’s Pass and Runcuracay Pass—while exploring ruins like Sayacmarca. End at Phuyupatamarca, the "City Above the Clouds," with breathtaking vistas. On the final day, visit Wiñay Wayna before reaching the Sun Gate for your first view of Machu Picchu. Enjoy a guided tour of the iconic citadel before descending to Aguas Calientes and returning to Cusco, completing this unforgettable adventure.
Departs Daily : This 4 Day - 3 Night trip includes guided hiking, accommodations at a premium camping site, private transfers from Cusco and meals as indicated. Please note this itinerary can be customized based on your interests and sightseeing requests
Includes
- Accommodations as per itinerary
- Meals as per itinerary; breakfast (B), lunch (L), dinner (D)
- Sightseeing: per itinerary
- Private arrival and departure transfers as per itinerary
Excludes
- Items of a personal nature
- All other items not mentioned as included
- Domestic flights; please inquire with your Keytours travel consultant
- International flights
Itinerary
1
Day 1: Bound for the Trailhead
Begin your authentic Inca Trail adventure with a scenic transfer from Cusco hotels to Ollantaytambo, the historic Sacred Valley town featuring spectacular Inca ruins built by Emperor Pachacuti. Take advantage of local artisan markets before departing for your trek starting point. Your 4-day Inca Trail hike begins at KM 82 (Piscacucho village), the official Inca Trail checkpoint. Experience a unique alternative Inca Trail route with a 2.5-hour trek along the sacred Urubamba River Valley. This less-crowded trail leads to hidden Inca ruins like the ancient site of Salapunku, offering exclusive archaeological experiences away from the Classic Inca Trail crowds. Enjoy a gourmet trail lunch before crossing the Urubamba River at KM 88. The afternoon trek ascends past traditional Andean agricultural terraces, providing panoramic Sacred Valley views. Explore the impressive Qoriwayrachina archaeological complex before reaching your exclusive first campsite at Patallaqta ruins, a spectacular Inca site off the main tourist route. At this private camping location, experience authentic Andean culture while interacting with professional Inca Trail porters and learning about their ancestral traditions. Your expert trekking crew will prepare a comfortable campsite while you explore the ancient Inca ruins of Patallaqta at sunset.
2
Day 2: Andean Culture above the Clouds
Start your second day on the Inca Trail with sunrise views over Patallaqta ruins. After a hearty trek breakfast, begin your ascent through the scenic Huayllabamba Valley. Trek through pristine Andean cloud forest, home to rare native trees. Your hike leads to Ayapata, where you'll enjoy a gourmet trail lunch surrounded by peaceful mountain atmosphere. Continue ascending to Llulluchapampa campsite, your exclusive high-altitude camping location. Experience authentic mountain culture through interactions with professional Inca Trail porters, joining optional traditional highland football matches at one of the world's highest natural playing fields. Participate in a traditional Andean ceremony led by local guides, honoring Pachamama (Mother Earth) and the sacred Apu mountain spirits. This authentic cultural ritual seeks blessings for tomorrow's challenging ascent of Warmiwañusca Pass, the Inca Trail's highest point.
3
Day 3: Dead Woman's Pass
4
Day 4: Sun Gate and Machu Picchu
Frequently Asked Questions
The Hiking the Long Inca Trail Adventure tour includes visits to several iconic destinations in Peru. The journey begins and ends in Cusco City, with key stops at Ollantaytambo, Aguas Calientes, and the world-renowned Machu Picchu. Along the way, travelers will explore lesser-known Inca ruins such as Salapunku, Patallaqta, and Sayacmarca, providing a rich cultural and historical experience.
This itinerary includes a combination of private transfers and guided hiking. Travelers are transferred from Cusco to Ollantaytambo by private vehicle. The main portion of the journey involves a guided 4-day trek along the Inca Trail, starting at KM 82 and culminating at Machu Picchu. After visiting Machu Picchu, travelers take a scenic train ride from Aguas Calientes back to Ollantaytambo, followed by a return transfer to Cusco.
Accommodations during the Hiking the Long Inca Trail Adventure consist of premium camping sites along the trail. Travelers will stay at exclusive campsites such as Patallaqta, Llulluchapampa, and Phuyupatamarca, which offer unique cultural experiences and breathtaking views. These campsites are equipped to provide comfort and are set up by professional trekking crews.
Yes, meals are included as per the itinerary. The package provides breakfast, lunch, and dinner during the trek. Gourmet trail meals are prepared by expert chefs, ensuring travelers enjoy high-quality dining experiences amidst the stunning Andean landscapes. Meals outside of the trekking days, such as in Cusco or Aguas Calientes, are not included.
Yes, the itinerary can be customized based on individual interests and sightseeing requests. Keytours Vacations offers flexibility to tailor the experience, whether it's adjusting the length of the stay, adding additional destinations, or including specific cultural or adventure activities. Travelers should consult a Keytours travel consultant to discuss customization options.
The Hiking the Long Inca Trail Adventure requires a moderate to high level of physical fitness. The trek involves hiking through mountainous terrain, including steep ascents and descents, as well as high-altitude passes such as Dead Woman’s Pass. Participants should be prepared for challenging conditions and long days of hiking, making it suitable for active travelers with prior hiking experience.
The best time to embark on the Hiking the Long Inca Trail Adventure is during the dry season, which runs from May to September. These months offer more stable weather conditions, with less rainfall and clearer skies, ideal for trekking and exploring Machu Picchu. Travelers should plan and book in advance, as this is also the peak season for visiting the region.
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