5-Day Inca Trail Trek to Machu Picchu from Cusco via Sacred Valley

Meet your tour guide early in the morning. Leave Cusco by private bus and drive through the famous Sacred Valley, passing Chinchero, Urubamba, and Ollantaytambo. On the way to km 82 from Cusco, stop in Ollantaytambo for breakfast for about 40 minutes.

After reaching km 82, cross the Urubamba River and follow its left bank. The first short climb leads to Wilka Rakay, from where you can enjoy a spectacular view of the Inca site of Patallapta and the Kusichaca Valley. The following descent to the Kusichaca River is straightforward. On the way to the first campsite, take in views of the Urubamba mountain range and the snow-capped peak of Veronica.

Continue along the Kusichaca Valley for approximately 7 km to Wayllabamba, where you will spend the first night.

After breakfast, climb for about 1 hour to Tres Piedras (The Three Stones). Enter the beautiful cloud forest and continue to the tree line and Llulluchapampa at 3,750 m, where you will stop for a short break.

After the break, hike for 2 more hours to reach the highest point of the Inca Trail. Cross the predominant flora of this part of the trail as you get closer to the pass.

Upon reaching the summit of the pass, you will have completed the most difficult part of the Inca Trail. A 2-hour descent then brings you to the base camp at Pacaymayo, where you will spend the second night.

Start the day with a 40-minute hike from Pacaymayo to Runkurakay. These small ruins occupy a commanding position and offer a nice view.

Another 45-minute hike brings you to the top of the second pass, Abra Runkurakay. The descent to Sayacmarka takes around 1 hour. The trail then descends into the magnificent cloud forest, full of orchids, hanging moss, ferns, and native flowers.

From the top of the Phuyupatamarka pass, enjoy a spectacular view of the snow-capped peaks Salcantay (6,270 m), Veronica (5,750 m), and Machu Picchu Mountain.

Start the morning with a walk that passes through another Inca tunnel before visiting the ruins of Wiñaywayna, or "Forever Young," and the beautiful Inca site of Intipata.

Stop at Wiñaywayna for lunch, then continue walking along the Royal Inca Trail.

Arrive at the Sun Gate when the afternoon light is at its best, and enjoy seeing only a few other people there.

After breakfast, leave for Machu Picchu by bus early in the morning, when it is less crowded. This is a good time to enjoy the calmness and ancient spirit of the best-known archaeological site on the continent.

After arriving at the citadel, your tour guide will provide detailed information about Machu Picchu, including the history and culture of the Inca. Afterwards, you will have enough free time to enjoy and explore the site on your own.

Later, take the bus down to Aguas Calientes, followed by the train from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo. The trip ends with a minibus ride back to Cusco.