Our world is full of marvelous places; the path to get to the most beautiful of all those in Latin America is through the highlands. Embark on a memorable adventure to discover an amazing variety of landscapes and ecological areas: we will explore refreshing waterfalls and Inca remains then we will trek through open lands, encountering amazing ramps and rock blocks left by the Incan Kachiqhata Quarry.

After a nourishing breakfast we will hike a winding path that ascends to the Chacracahualla pass at 4240m / 13910ft. It is surrounded by the Vilcanota mountain range with the snow capped mountain Veronica rising above the peaks. The hike to the pass is a step back in time, observing local farmers working in their fields sowing potatos and other local crops. Then we will continue walking through open grasslands to finally go down to the second campsite, Kachiqhata (3500m / 11130ft). (B / L / D)

We’ll pick you up from your hotel at 06:00am to transfer you to train station for a 4 hour journey or in high season this may be with private transport to Ollantaytambo train station, then we’ll board a Tourist Backpacker Train with reserved seats for 1 hour and 45 minutes to the kilometer 104 start of the hike. As soon as we arrive to this point we will cross a bridge to the checkpoint and show your passports then we will start with a easy walk. On the other side of the Vilcanota river the trail heads off to the right towards the ruins of Chachabamba. After a visit to Chachabamba, we’ll continue along the trail heading south, climbing the mountain, before entering the cloud forest. Then the trail leaves the forest and goes west while continuing the uphill hike in open grassland. After hiking in the sun for about three hours, the trail descends into a shaded forest. This is where trekkers can enjoy a beautiful waterfall. After leaving the waterfall and forest, trekkers will arrive at the lower part of the incredible ruins of Wiñay-Wayna. It is recommended that you start the trek with at least 2 litres of water.

After lunch in Wiñay-Wayna we continue through a cloud forest full of bromelias, orchids and fern trees. You will walk the last part of the original trail with amazing features including stone steps and tambos “resting places”. To arrive at Inti Punku (Sun Gate) we will climb 60 Inca steps. From this point you will be able to contemplate and observe the marvelous Machu Picchu, where you can feel an inner peace. We will have a break for photos before heading down to Aguas Calientes. Hot spring pools are optional or you can enjoy free time to chill out at this small village. (B,L / D)
DAY 5: Aguas Calienets – Machu Picchu – Cusco

Early after a good breakfast we will leave to re-live the history and the mysterious world of the Incas; we take the first bus up at approx 05.30am and arrive at the ruins at 06.00am. At this time is still not so crowded so we take advantage of the tranquility of this sacred site with a guided tour. This enigmatic city is explored for approx. 2 hours and its mysteries and archaeological information will be explained by your expert guide. Following this you will be free to explore at your own pace (you generally have approx. 6 hours extra free time but this depends on train timetables in high season). You will have the option to climb to the Huayna Picchu mountain (Please check previously with your guide. Sometimes guided tour is after Huayna Picchu). Around 4:00pm we’ll take the bus down to Aguas Calientes for your return train.
NOTE :
* People who want to visit Huayna Picchu must let us know as soon as they can, because according to new rules, there is a limit of people (400) per day that can climb it.
Timetable :
– 1st Turn 07:00 am : 200 people.
– 2nd Turn 10:00 am : 200 people.