Posts Tagged ‘Inca Trail to Machu Picchu’

IMPERIAL INCA TRAIL OVERVIEW

Imperial Inca Trail is one of the most adventurous treks in the region Cusco; organized by “Sunrise Peru Trek”. This trek is the culmination of trekking adventures as it combines the city of cusco, the national park of Machu Picchu  and the Sacred Valley of the Incas. Challenging trek is continuously rewarded with dramatic Vilcabamba mountain range sceneries; including two of the Peru’s highest peaks: Salkantay and La veronica.

The Imperial Inca Trail amazing adventure caters spectacular views of the Peruvian Andes and authentic culture of Incas; who migrated to the Cusco region from Altiplano region in the XI-century. The trekking trail; which goes up and down frequently on the rolling forested hills also manifests floral and faunal diversity of Machu Picchu National Park. This moderate Imperial Inca Trail that best suits to trekkers; who have plans of spending one week in Peru. Relatively an easy walks that goes as high as 4,200m; the Imperial Inca Trail can be enjoyed by experienced as well as novice trekkers.  Our Imperial Inca Trail  additionally allows you to discover the magnificent Inca culture, life style, customs and traditions of the Peruvians.

This Imperial Inca Trail runs through the national park of Machu Picchu in the southeast of Peru and is home of Inca culture. Those who visit this region are rewarded by the opportunity to witness and learn about traditional customs, a unique lifestyle and breathtaking views of Salkantay Mountain and canyon-like valleys.

Highlights of Imperial Inca Trail

• Sightseeing tour to various historical/natural/cultural world heritage sites in the ragion of Cusco and Machu Picchu
• Magnificent bus drive through the sacred valley of the Incas (Enjoy the view of Pisaq and Ollantaytambo)
• Step inside and experience the lifestyle and traditions of people living in the Peruvian Andes
• Trekking in Machu Picchu National Park (Listed in UNESCO world heritage natural and Cultural site)
• Discover numerous XV century Inca settlements and other cultural monuments.
• Variety of floras and faunas to witness
• Explore the Iconic Machu Picchu situated at the altitude of 2,400m

OUTLINE ITINERARY

1st Day: Cusco

Arrival to Cusco and explore the Inca and colonial architecture in the city

2th Day: Acclimatization day

Drive a private bus through the sacred valley of the Incas and visit the Inca settlements of Pisaq and Ollantaytambo

3th Day: Yuncachimpa

One hours bus drive and trek for 6 -7 hours from Pisqhakuchu (2,750m) to Yuncachimpa camp at 3,300m.

4th Day: Dead Woman pass

walk over the highest point, the “Dead woman pass” at 4,200m; today is the hardest walking day.

5th Day: Beautiful day

explore various Inca settlements along the trail and experience the beautiful forest with plenty of wildlife.

6th Day: Machu Picchu

Explore Machu Picchu in the morning, enjoy a free time for further exploration and in the afternoon we’ll return to Cusco by train.

7th Day: Transfer out

After breakfast in the hotel we’ll transfer you to the airport of Cusco.

DAY TO DAY

1st Day: Arrival to Cusco

Imperial Inca Trail Machu Picchu

Arrive to Cusco city at any time. Today there are no planned activities. Our staff will be waiting for you in the Airport of Cusco and transfer you to the designated hotel; check into the hotel and enjoy the city. There is a welcome meeting in the evening where our guide will review the details of your tour. Optionally you can do the city tour; in this tour you’ll visits the cathedral, the koricancha, Sacsayhuaman, Quenqo, Tambomachay and Pucapucara; the tour last for 4:30 hours.

• Accommodation: Prisma Hotel (or similar)
• Meals included: Breakfast

2th Day: Acclimatization day

Enjoy breakfast in the hotel. At 8:00am we leave the hotel in our private car toward the Sacred Valley of the Incas. We’ll stop in the viewing points of the valley before exploring the Pisac Inca ruins. We also will visit the local market in the town of Pisaq where you can purchase some items like handicrafts directly from the manufacturers. We then drive through the sacred valley until the town of Urubamba where we stop and enjoy a local cuisine for lunch.

Imperial Inca Trail Machu Picchu

From Urubamba a further 30 minute drive takes us to Ollantaytambo village which is surrounded by the sacred mountains, where we will again discover the magnificence of the Incan constructions, the amazing temple of the Sun, enormous blocks of rock perfectly carved and polished, stone water fountains, stairs, terraces and the beauty of the local people in their traditional dress, all surrounded by the sacred mountains and Valley of Patacancha and Willoq. Finish the day exploring the Ollantaytambo Inca ruins.

The Sacred Valley of the Incas

is a tale of mighty glacial rivers carving through solid earth to shape one of the most environmentally diverse basins in the Peruvian highlands. From the flat floor of the fertile valley, hills and mountains climb higher and higher to elevations where snow accumulates year round.

Above the ice-capped peaks (the apus, or divine spirits, of Inca mythology), there is only the boundless Andean sky. The Urubamba/Vilcanota River runs through the valley, and in Inca times, its flow was thought to mimic the shape of the Milky Way. The Sacred Valley of the Incas is a stretch of virtually untouched villages and ancient ruins ranging across broad fields and mountain slopes, it drips with Andean history, culture, and beauty.

• Private Vehicle: Cusco – Pisaq – Urubamba – Ollantaytambo
• Pisac Ruins Guided Tour / 45m-1h
• Ollantaytambo Ruins Guided Tour /1h

Days 3, 4, 5 & 6: Trek the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu

Imperial Inca Trail Machu Picchu

After breakfast in the Hotel at 7:00am depart Ollantaytambo by van to km 82 where the hike begins. Once we arrive there with your passport in your hand we pass the control point, then we trek through beautiful scenery, with a variety of flora that changes with the seasons.A crew of local porters, cooks, and guides will take care of all the details for the duration of the hike. Porters carry the majority of the gear so you’ll only need to carry a small daypack with water, rain gear, snacks, a camera, etc.

The Imperial Inca Trail starts in the village of Pisqhakuchu or the km 82, of the Cuzco – Machu Picchu railway and takes four days of strenuous walking. The trail includes an impressive variety of altitudes, climates and ecosystems that range from the high Andean plain to the cloud forest. Travelers will cross two high altitude passes (the highest being Warmiwañuska at 4,200 m.a.s.l.) to culminate the hike with a magical entrance to Machu Picchu through the Inti Punko or Gateway of the Sun.

Trek Description

To begin the the Trek; we’ll cross the Kusichaca bridge, (an important Inca bridge which using Inca techniques, has been built with steel cables which allow visitors to cross the Urubamba River). Then you head over to the left bank through a cactus grove and start the day calmly. After 2 hours trek we will come across the archaeological complexes of Q’ente, Pulpituyoc, Kusichaca and Patallaca. From this last spot, follow the trail along the left side of the Kusichaca Valley/River in the area with the same name where you will not only see the bridge but also you will find tombs, aqueducts, terraces, Roads and a deep canyon. The trail continues until the small peasant village of Wayllabamba (3,000masl) here we’ll set up our first camp.

From Huayllabamba we’ll start very early hiking the most difficult part of the Imperial Inca Trail as we have to climb up to 4,200 meters, crossing the Warmiwañusqa pass, the first and the highest. If you suffer from “soroche” (altitude sickness) it is best not to stop and descend quickly to the valley of the Pakaymayu River, where we’ll setup our second campsite at an altitude of 3,600masl.

On the third trekking day

Our third trekking day is the longest but very beautiful and interesting. We will be able to visit impressive archaeological complexes such as Runkuraqay, Sayacmarka, Cochamarka, Phuyipatamarka, intipata and wiñayhuayna. From Pacaymayu the trail climbs up toward the second pass, at 3,950masl. From where we’ll descend to Yanacocha (the black lagoon) and later we’ll trek through the cloud forest until Wiñay Wayna wher we’ll setup our thrith campsite at 2,600masl.

On the fourth trekking day we’ll start at 4:00am to arrive to Machu Picchu at 7:00am and take the pictures with the first light of the day. Then we’ll have a guided tour within Machu Picchu; you can leave your equipment at the control gate; after the tour you’ll have time to walk around Machu Picchu until mid-after-noon. After all we’ll take the bus to the town of Aguas Calientes where we’ll enjoy our lunch and in the afternoon we’ll take the train to return to Ollantaytambo train station from where we’ll take a car to Cusco.

Meals included: Breakfast | Lunch | Dinner

Trekking distances:

  1st walking Day.- Pishqkuchu (km 82) – Wayllabamba: 11 km 6 -7 hours
  2th walking Day.- Waylabamba –  Pacaymayu : 11 km 8 – 9 hours
   3th walking Day.- Pacaymayu – Wiñay Wayna: 18 km 7 – 8 hours
  4th walking Day.- Wiñay Wayna –  Machu Picchu 5 km 2 hours

7th Day: farewell

We’ll be at your hotel at least two hours before your flight leaves to drive you to the airport where you should check your plane ticket and pay the airport tax.

END OF THE SERVICES

The Price Includes

 ALL FIXED TRANSPORTATION:

• Transfer in/out airport/hotel/airport
• Private bus for the Sacred Valley tour, the same bus will transfer you from Ollantaytambo to Km 82 starting point of the Inca Trail
• Bus down from Machu Picchu to Aguas Calientes
• Tourist train Expeditions class from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo
• Transfer to Cusco hotel.

ENTRANCE FEES:

• For the Sacred Valley tour
• Inca Trail Permits & Entrance fees
• Machu Picchu Permits & Entrance fees

MEALS:

• All breakfasts in the hotels
• Delicious meals on the Inca trail prepared by professional chefs
• Food includes pancakes, omelets, soups, fresh fruit, avocado, pasta, chicken, fish, meat, rice, all rich in carbohydrates and suitable for trekking, also hot drinks including coca leaf tea which is excellent for the altitude, teatime everyday (tea, coffee, biscuits, popcorn),
• The price Includes 3 breakfasts- 3 lunches- 3 dinners- 3 afternoon tees
• We offer a vegetarian option upon request
• We provide available boiled water each morning for your water bottles.

GUIDE:

• Licensed bilingual tour guide (2 guides over 8 people),

GENERAL PORTERS:

• For the camping equipment
• For the food
• Kitchen gears.

EXTRA PORTER:

• To carry your personal items (6kls)
• We provide duffel bags.

CAMPING EQUIPMENT:

• We provide brand new 4 season four people capacity tents for two people.
• Therm-a-rest
• Dinning room tent
• Kitchen tent
• Toilet tent, seats and tables
• Tent for the guides and porters
• Kitchen gear
• Backpacks, warm clothes and life insurance for the porters.

ACCOMMODATIONS:

• Hotel based on double occupancy
• 2 nights in Cusco ***Hotel/ Prisma Hotel… See the web
• 1 night in Ollantaytambo ***Hotel / Hotel Pakarictampu … See the web
• 3 nights in camping tents
• If you would like a single room there is an additional cost of US$30.00 per night,

OTHER ITEMS:

• Local guide for permanent assistance
• First aid kit
• Oxygen bottle

NOT INCLUDE

• MEALS: Lunch and dinner on day 1, 2 and 6; You must consider a budget from US$15 to US$25 for each meal. We will assist you at this issues.
• Sleeping Bag: Can be rented in our office for US $20 for the entire trek.
• Tips for the staff and Airport taxes.

Accommodations

For Imperial Inca Trail; is included 3 nights accommodation in 3* hotels in Cusco and Ollantaytambo. We carefully select small friendly hotels that offer great value, food and welcomes. The accommodation we normally use is detailed in the itinerary.

For 3 nights on trek you will stay at quiet campsites in good quality two-man tents—usual information is as follows:
Eureka! Tent Fits 3 Persons max. (Used for 2 persons), floor dimensions: 2.20m x 1.90m, weight: 6.5kg, aluminum poles, 2 doors.

The campsites have a separate dining tent, and bathroom tent. There are no showers on campsite but you will be given water to wash with in the morning.

Single Rooms and Solo Walkers

A supplement is payable for single occupancy—please note that we do not place strangers together in a tent, so if you are a solo traveller or travelling in a group with uneven numbers, then a single occupancy supplement will apply.

Meals

For Classic Inca Trail; meals are included only during the trek: 3 breakfasts, 3 Lunches, 3 Dinners, 3 tea-times. Is included also all Breakfasts in the Hotels.

A typical trekking day may look something like this:

• 06:00 Wake-up cup of tea
• 07:00 Breakfast of yoghurt, granola, “Chuta” bread, sliced cheese, tea/coffee Mid-morning: Snack of fruit (banana, apple), chocolate, munay nuts
• 13:00 Lunch of asparagus soup, grilled chicken & mashed potato
• Late afternoon tea: cake, popcorn, tea/coffee
• 19:00 Dinner of corn soup, beef stew & quinoa, vanilla pudding

Accommodations

Hotel Visit the website Hotel Prisma – Cusco A small hotel located in the historic center of Cusco.

Hotel Visit the website Hotel Pakaritampu – Ollantaytambo The has 20 comfortable en rooms, all with views, cable TV, telephone, and hairdryer. It is also possible to take advantage of the laundry

Tented Camp Tented Camp – Inca Trail The campsites have a separate dining tent, and bathroom tent. There are no showers on campsite but you will be given water to wash with in the morning.

Frequently Asked Questions

How far in advance do I need to reserve the Imperial Inca Trail?

We recommended you to reserve as far in advance as possible. The government has strictly limited the number of people allowed on the Inca Trail (permits are issued to about 200 trekkers per day plus 300 porters). We therefore recommend that you try to make your Imperial Inca Trail reservation as far in advance as possible as soon as you know the dates of your international flights (check that your passport isn’t about to expire).

What about payment, do you need a deposit?

After we have confirmed your trek booking you will need to pay a trek deposit of US$250. The deposit can be paid by PayPal (preferred method as it is quick), or by bank transfer. The remaining trek balance needs to be paid in our office in Cusco at least 2 days prior to the trek departure date, before 7.30pm. Payment is to be made in cash US dollars (preferred) or local currency. When we confirm your trek booking we will send you more details about how to pay the trek deposit.

Please note.- that the trek deposit is non-refundable & non-transferable. The deposit is used to purchase your trek permit and reserve space within the group. After purchasing the permit (or submitting your details to the government) we cannot change the date of trek departure or change the name or passport number on the trek permit.

Is the trek difficult, do I need to be fit?

The Imperial Inca Trail includes the 45km (27 mile) hike through mountainous regions; trekking for 6 -8 hours at high altitude and over rough terrain. The maximum altitude reached on the trek is 4,200m above sea level. On the second day of the trek we ascend 1200m. Make no mistake, the Inca Trail is a fairly difficult trek and you should be well prepared and healthy prior to starting it. You should be fit and take regular exercise. Try walking 15km in a day or go to the gym in the months leading up to the trek. See Trek preparations.

Can I have vegetarian meals, vegan, and special meals?

We offer standard meals as well as a vegetarian meal option. Just let us know if you want vegetarian meals when you book your trek.
Vegetarian meals have no red meat, chicken or fish. We will assume that eggs and dairy are OK. We don’t cater specifically for vegans as it can get too complicated for our cooks (remember they are cooking in a tent). Most of our main meals in the evening are served as a buffet service so you can always leave what you don’t like; If there is a particular food that you don’t like (i.e. tomatoes, onions, mushrooms etc.)

What do I need to bring on the Imperial IncaTrail?

Backpack, sleeping bag, double-thickness foam mattress (we will provide you with this but you have to carry it, it weighs approx. 1kg), rain jacket, strong suitable footwear, one complete change of clothing, sweater, jacket (something warm), water bottle (metal or nalgene type) and sterilizing tablets (Micropur are recommended and can be bought in local pharmacies in Cusco), flashlight and batteries, broad-brim or peaked cap, sunblock, insect repellent, toiletries and toilet paper, selection of small snacks, chocolate, dried fruit, biscuits etc, camera and spare batteries (nowhere to charge your camera during the trek).

For your own personal hygiene we also recommend that you bring a small bottle of antiseptic/anti-bacterial hand gel to clean your hands each time after using the camp toilets and before eating any snacks / meals. You also have to bring your original passport with you on the trek, with the same passport number you originally made your reservation with; otherwise you will be unable to go on the trek. Photocopies are no longer acceptable.
All of them will loaded by our porter in duffle bags that we provide; you’ll walk caring a small backpack with elemental thing for the day like: water, insect repellent, sunblock, snacks, raingear and one jacket

Imperial Inca Trail Location

Imperial Inca Trail Machu Picchu 7 Days

Imperial Inca Trail Machu Picchu map

The Inca Trail Map

Overview for Standard Inca Trail Trek

Standard Inca Trail Trek to Machu Picchu offers a number of stunning mountain scenery of the Vilcabamba mountain range; and the mysterious Inca ruins along the trail. It runs through the reserve area of Machu Picchu; inscribed as a world heritage in the list of UNESCO. The Standard Inca Trail Trek is one of the most famous trekking routes in the world. The Standard Inca Trail Trek to Machu Picchu, traverses a variety of terrain and explores the rich cultural and natural diversity of the southern Peru. This trek offers amazing views of the Mountain range from which Salkantay mountain is the highest with 6,271m.

Our customized Standard Inca Trail Trek allows a gentler acclimatization process; as it traverses the variety of landscapes. From jungle to high alpine; lush valley and up to arid peaks passing through hospitable villages through the world’s deepest gorge.  The trekking is walking at your own pace; on well-developed trails that pass through Inca settlement; located mainly in the hilly or mountainous region elevation up to 3,000m.

You do not need to be a professional mountaineer to trek on the Standart Inca Trail. But it is always beneficial to explore something more if you are physically fit. Perhaps the most enjoyable part of our trek; will be the cool air of the mountains and magnificent views of the mountain peaks; and the iconic Machu Picchu.

Highlights of Standard Inca Trail Trek

• Standard Inca Trail Trek is commonly referred to as one of the best hiking trails the world has to offer.
• The Standard Inca Trail Trek is a trip that you need no prior experience to do – just a comfortable pair of boots and “Sunrise Peru Trek” as your trusted guide.
  Enjoy the photo opportunities every moment
• You will cover 45KM (26 miles) of ancient stone paved Inca Trail in 4 days and 3 nights
• Standard Inca Trail Trek includes trek across two mountain passes the highest of which reach to 4,200masl.
• Explore every Inca sites along the trail such as: Pata LLacta, Willcaraqhay, Runkuraqhay, Sayacmarka, Conchamarka, Phuyupatamarka, inti Pata, Wiñayhuayna, Inti Puku and Machu Picchu itself.
• This is the only hike that allows you to go directly through the Sun Gate into Machu Picchu – seeing the amazing sacred Inca citadel of Machu Picchu from above for the first time.

Important:  please book early, because the permits for Standard Inca Trail to Machu Picchu are sold out months in advance.

Outline itinerary – Standard Inca Trail Trek

Day 01: First Day walk

Drive from Cusco for 3:30 hours to Pisqhakucho, pass the control point and trek for 6 -7 hours; today’s trekking is considered from easy to moderate, we’ll covert a distance of 13km

Day 02: The hardest trekking day

Today we’ll trek over the highest pass at 4,200m and in the afternoon we’ll trek over the second pass at 4,000m. Today’s trek is considered hard but you’ll rewarded by splendid views.

Day 03: Beautiful walk

Today the walk is through the tropical forest with the presence of wildlife and also we’ll explore several Inca sites along the trail, also you’ll pass Inca tunnels, Inca terraces and more.

Day 4: Machu Picchu

Trek for two hours very early in the morning and arrive to Machu Picchu for the sunrise and visit for 2 – 3 hours; After the tour you’ll ahve free time for further exploration. In the afternoon we’ll return to Cusco.

Standard Inca Trail Trek Lincks

• Browse the Inca Trail
• Inca Trail Trekking Region and Routes
• Altitude Sickness and Acclimatization
• Inca Trail Treks – Costs and Tour Operators
• Packing Lists for Inca Trail Treks

Day to Day Itinerary for Standard Inca Trail Trek

Day 01: First Trekking Day

We’ll Pick-up you from your hotel in Cusco at 05:30 am and travel for 3:30 hours in our private bus to Piscacucho at 2,750m known as the km 82; we’ll stop in the town of Ollantaytambo to get breakfast and purchase some item for the trek. Once at Pisqhakucho we will meet our trekking porters who will carry the trekking equipment.

The trail starts with a gentle climb, and then we have three hours on relatively level terrain as we follow the course of the river, rewarded with superb views of Mount Veronica (5,750 m). Three hours after, at the zone of Miskay we take the trail to the left, ascending gradually to the Inca ruins of Willkaraccay high above the mouth of the Cusichaka stream and across from the Inca town of Llactapata (Terraced Town). Here we’ll have an introduction to the Incas culture and history of Llactapata Inca ruins which was discovered by Mr. Hiram Bingham in the 1915s

After the tour and a short rest, we continue another one hour to our lunch place at Hatunchaka. The trail in this section is adorned with native flowers and bromeliads growing in the boulders along the left side, and by majestic views of the mountains in both valleys.

Walking times are always approximate, depending on weather conditions, group ability and other factors. After lunch, another 2-3 hours will bring us to Yukachimpa Camp (3,300 m).

Trekking Facts

• Meals Included: L, D
• Total distance: 13 km
• Estimated time: 7-8 hours
• Maximum altitude point: 3,300 m
  
• Campsite altitude: 3,300 m
  

The Highlights of today

Day 02:  Trek over the highest pas of “Dead woman pass” (4,200m)

After breakfast we’ll start early climb the long steep path to Warmiwañusca Pass, better known as Dead Woman’s Pass. This is the highest point of the trek at 4, 200m/13,776ft. After and early breakfast, we begin the most difficult part of the trek, which consists of an abrupt and steep ascent that stretches for 9 km.

Along this climb, the landscape changes frequently; along the trail we may see domesticated llamas and alpacas grazing on ichu, one of the few plants that grow at high altitude. We also cross an area of the so called cloud forest, which is the habitat for many different kinds of birds like hummingbirds and sparrows, and the Andean bear, which is also called the Spectacled Bear.

Is’t very important to be prepared to face strong Andean weather (blazing sun or cold winds) around the pass, drinks lots of water along the hike. We advise that on this day specially, your daypack is well stocked with candies, chocolates and coca leaves that will keep your sugar level high, and help with altitude sickness.

Immediately after the pass, we descend through Inca steps for three hours into the Pacaymayu valley (3,600m/118,08ft); where will be served our lunch; after the lunch you can reset and refill your water bottle; then we continue the second mountain.

From Pacaymayu the trail is climbing for one hour to the Inca ruins of Runkuraqhay, named like this for its circular shape; Runkuraqhay is Located at 3,800masl; Runkuraqhay Inca archaeological site consists of a small oval structure that is believed to have served the purpose of a relay station of the “Chaskis” or Inca messengers. From here the trail is climbing up for one more hour to the second pass at 4,000masl. Where you’ll have plenty of time to rest and take pictures of the snow caped mountains.

From the second pass most of the trail is down or undulated until the camp; One hour after you’ll arrive to the Inca ruins of Sayacmarka; a small Inca town located on the top of a rocky mountain; from Sayacmarka the trail continues for 30 minutes through a beautiful cloud forest to Chakiqhocha camp at 3,600masl

Trekking facts

• Meals Included: B, L, D
• Total distance: 16 km
• Estimated time: 7-8 hours
• Maximum altitude point: 4,200 m
• Campsite altitude: 3,600 m

The Highlights of today

Day 03: Beautiful walking Day

Today is the shortest day but also the most impressive and the most interesting, due to the number of archaeological sites and the lush cloud forest area that we’ll cross, so the hike of today is very rich in Andean flora and fauna.

From the camp of Chakiqhocha the trail is continuing undulating by the site of “Cedrobamba” mountain, you’ll pass Inca tunnels and impressive mountain landscapes. Two Hours after you’ll arrive to the Inca ruins of Phuyupatamarka (3,600m/11,850ft); the name means “town over the clouds”. From here, one can observe a sophisticated sacred complex made up of water fountains with solid foundations, and also impressive views of the Urubamba River valley.

From Phuyupatamarka is a 3-hours walk down to “Wiñayhuayna” where will be served our lunch; this is also our camping site for today. The rest of the afternoon you can rest or walk 10 minutes to explore the Inca Ruins of Wiñayhuayna. Wiñayhuanya means “Forever Young” is an impressive Inca agricultural area where you’ll see terraces with water baths, Aqueducts, store houses, domestic buildings and one temple for the Mother Nature.

Trekking Facts

• Meals Included: B, L, D
• Total distance: 11 km
• Estimated time: 6 hours
• Maximum altitude point: 3,900 m
• Campsite altitude: 2,600 m

Highlights of today

Day 4: Explore Machu Picchu

The hike of today will begin very early (wakeup call at 4:00am); then hike to Machu Picchu overlooking the Urubamba River to the sun Gate or INTIPUNKU; from the INTI PUNKU is possible to see the sunrise over Machu Picchu. The sky starts getting light by 6:00am and the first rays of the sun reach Machu Picchu at about 7:00am.

From Inti Punku (the Sun Gate); a final easy 45-minutes walk downhill steps will bring us first, to the upper south sector of Machu Picchu (The Guardian houses). The trail ends at a series of terraces; which present classic views of the overall city; after enjoying a panoramic view we must walk straight down to the entrance of Machu Picchu, where we have to pass the last control point and you’ll have the option to use the toilets. After that we’ll go within Machu Picchu for the tour which will be for 2 -3 hours.

During the tour you’ll visit the most important places accompanied by your Inca Trail Guide; in each of these places you’ll receive an explanation; and also you’ll have enough time to take pictures.

The Tour within Machu Picchu will end in the late morning; after which there will be a couple of hours for exploring on your own or to just rest. In the early afternoon take the bus down to Aguas Calientes town where you can have your lunch in one of the restaurants; and in the afternoon we’ll take the train back to Cuzco. Arrival to Cusco is generally around 8.30 -9:00 pm.

Trekking Facts

• Meals Included: B
• Total distance: 5 km
• Estimated time: 2 hours
• Maximum altitude point: 2,700 m
• Machu Picchu Altitude: 2,400 m

Highlights of today

The Standard Inca Trail Price includes

• Briefing: Group and guide meeting at 7:00 pm in our office or in you Hotel, this will be the night before of your trek
• Early collection from your hotel in Cusco from (04:30 am) or from Sacred Valley at 8:00am
• 3-hour drive a private bus from Cusco to km 82 –Piskacucho village (The trek starting point)
• Full meals for the entire tour (3 Breakfast, 3 Lunch 3 Dinner) + snacks (vegetarian, vegan option, gluten, wheat free or special diets upon your request.)
• Permit and fees for Inca Trail Park and Machu Picchu Sanctuary.
• Porters to carry (camping equipment: client tents, dinning and cooking tents, table, stools, cooking gear, stove, gas container, cutlery, plates, food and fresh vegetables).
• 2 Excellent experienced tour guides (9-16 person / 6-8 with 1 tour guide)
• 2 expert “Sunrise Peru Trek” gourmet mountain cooks, assistants.
• Boiled water provided from 2nd day.
• 2 person per tent clean, new, spacious (4 person dome igloo tents).
• One inflatable sleeping pad per person
• One pillow per person
• Buckets of hot water for washing in your tent every day
• Biodegradable soap and hand cleansing gel
• Emergency First-aid kit and Oxygen assistance
• 3-4 hours guided tour in Machu Picchu and extra time for you within Machu PIcchu
• Bus down from Machu Picchu to Aguas Calientes town
• Tourist Expedition train return to Ollantaytambo train station and bus to Cusco

Excluded

Breakfast on the first morning
Lunch on the last day
Sleeping bag (4 seasons -Minus 8ºC) can be rented by us $25 for the trip.
Porter service to carry: (sleeping bag, mattress, extra clothes.) 7 Kg for US$ 60 or 15 Kg for US$ 120
Tips for the trekking crew, guides, cooks and porters (It is a tradition but not mandatory).

Standard Inca Trail Trek FAQ’s

How far in advance do I need to book the Standard Inca Trail Trek?

4-day Standard Inca Trail Trek is extremely popular, and permits are strictly limited on a first-come, first-served basis, therefore early booking is important (ideally 6 months or more in advance of your travel dates). If you are unfortunately inflexible with dates, another option you may like to consider is the quieter Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu which does not require permits, for now.

How does it work with the guide and porters for Standard Inca Trail Trek?

OUR GUIDES.- Quality guides make the difference between a great trip and a wonderful experience. “Sunrise Peru Trek” guides are fully qualified and trained. All have many years of experience of guiding trekkers in Peru, and speak excellent English.

They bring a wealth of knowledge to your journey, opening your eyes to the legends, culture, food, flora and fauna of the Andes.
Additionally they are first aid trained and fully trained and experienced in dealing with cases of altitude sickness. They also carry a comprehensive first aid kit.

OUR PORTERS.-  Your luggage and the camp equipment will be transported by “Sunrise Peru Trek’s” porters who come from the local communities (Tinki, Phacchanta, Lares, Cunacani, etc) around the city of Cusco. This kind of work allows them to support their family and communities. All porters have a specific task, dependent on the size of the group: cook, porters’ chief, assistant cook, tent attendant, and WC attendant. Weight is an essential variable on the Inca Trail (each porter carries max. 20kg). All of our equipment weight is pre-measured to fit within the weight requirements for our porters’ health and safety. Tips are not included in our arrangements.

What equipment do I need for the trek?

While trekking the Inca Trail you will only have to carry a day bag with water, snacks, spare clothes and your camera (if you pay for extra porter US$ 60 for 7 kilos). Your main bag will be moved by a porter. You must limit your luggage to one bag of up to 7kg per person. It is possible to store excess luggage at your hotel in Cusco.

We will supply you with a detailed equipment list as part of your pre-departure information pack. You will need normal walking and travelling gear as well as a sleeping bag and warm clothes. See the packing list section.

How fit do I need to be for Standard Inca Trail Trek?

The Trek is graded moderate to strenuous, and on walking days you will be trekking for between 5 and 8 hours per day. You will be trekking at high altitude and we recommend that you enjoy a good level of physical fitness before tackling this trek. The trails are generally well maintained and are a good walking surface.

Are there toilets?

Many new, flush toilets have been built along the Inca trail including all of the major campsites. This has helped a lot to improve sanitary conditions on the trail although conditions are still not always perfect.  Each toilet block has cold running water. We recommend that you bring hand-sanitizer to use after visiting the public toilets. Every evening we will provide you with a bowl of warm water to wash with.

When is the best time of year?

The trekking season on the Inca Trail is from March to December. Many consider the best months to do the Inca Trail are from May to September when the conditions are fairly dry and the weather generally sunny. Please bear in mind however that you’ll be trekking at altitude, and the months of June, July and August can also be very cold at night.

The Price for Standard Inca Trail Trek

Standard Group Service Adult

US$ 615.00

Available discounts (these discounts are not cumulative)

• Students: US$ 30 (students require a valid International Student Identity Card. Please note that Youth Travel Cards are not valid)
• Teenagers: US$ 30.00 (up to 16 years of age, passport copy required for all bookings)
• Children: US$ 45.00 (up to 7 years of age, passport copy required for all bookings)

Departure dates

Fixed departures are available along the year. Exception: one-month closing period of all Inca Trail routes in February. Please contact us to check departures to alternatives routes.

All Classic Inca Trail departures are subject to government space availability, please contact us fo the availability

The Standard Inca Trail Trek Map

The Standard Inca Trail Trek Location

Pisqhakucho the begining point known as the Km 82, it is located at 2,750masl … here is the control point

Dead Woman’s Pass at 4,200 msl..  the  highest pass of the Standard Inca Trail Trek to Machu Picchu

Phuyupatamarka at 3,600 masl … with impresive view of Machu Picchu mountain

The iconic Machu Picchu located at 2,400 masl