Day 2 is the most challenging and rewarding stage of the entire trek, as you will reach the highest point of the Salkantay route at 5,100 meters above sea level.

The day begins early at 5:00 AM with a warm wake-up tea served by our team, allowing you to prepare for the day ahead. Shortly after, at around 6:00 AM, you will enjoy a hearty breakfast before starting the ascent.

You will begin a gradual uphill hike lasting approximately 3 hours, surrounded by dramatic high-altitude landscapes. Along the way, you will reach the beautiful Salkantay Lagoon, located at the base of the imposing Salkantay Mountain. Here, you will have time to rest, take photos, and listen to your guide’s explanation about the cultural and natural significance of this sacred area.

After this stop, the ascent continues for approximately one additional hour until you reach the highest point of the trek, known as Paso Incaqchiriasca (5,100 m.a.s.l.), meaning “the place where the Inca died.” From this spectacular viewpoint, you will be rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views of the Andes, with snow-capped peaks and vast valleys stretching into the distance.

After taking time to enjoy this achievement, you will begin a descent of about one hour to the area of Acopampa, where our team will be waiting with a freshly prepared lunch to help you recover energy.

In the afternoon, the trek continues with a 2-hour descent toward the Inca Canal (Pampacahua) campsite, located at approximately 3,900 meters above sea level. This site is notable for its ancient Inca canal, an impressive example of Inca engineering used to channel water through the mountains.

Upon arrival at camp, you will have time to rest before enjoying a delicious dinner, followed by a peaceful night surrounded by the high Andean landscape.

Day 3 offers a more relaxed pace compared to the previous day, as you transition into the historic Inca Trail. This stage combines scenic trekking with cultural exploration, marking the beginning of your journey along one of the most iconic routes in the Andes.

Your day begins at 6:00 AM with a warm coca tea served directly to your tent, allowing you to wake up gently and prepare for the day. Shortly after, around 7:00 AM, you will enjoy a nutritious breakfast before continuing the trek.

At approximately 8:00 AM, you will begin a 2 to 3-hour descent through beautiful Andean valleys toward the archaeological site of Paucarcancha. This lesser-visited Inca complex offers a fascinating glimpse into the agricultural and residential life of the Inca civilization.

At Paucarcancha, you will have time to explore the site with your guide, who will share insights into its historical importance and architectural features. After the visit, you will enjoy a well-deserved lunch in a scenic setting.

Following lunch, the trek continues with a 1-hour descent toward the Inca Trail control point at Wayllabamba. After completing the checkpoint formalities, you will continue walking for an additional 30 to 45 minutes to reach your campsite.

Located at approximately 3,000 meters above sea level, Wayllabamba is the first official campsite of the classic 4-day Inca Trail. Here, you will join other trekkers who are following the traditional route to Machu Picchu.

Upon arrival, your tents will already be set up, allowing you to relax and enjoy the peaceful surroundings of the valley. In the evening, you will be served a delicious dinner, followed by time to rest and prepare for the next stage of the trek.

Day 4 is considered the most challenging and physically demanding stage of the Inca Trail, as you will climb to the highest point of the route: Warmiwañusca Pass (Dead Woman’s Pass) at 4,215 meters above sea level (13,780 ft).

The day begins early, with a gradual but steady ascent through stunning Andean landscapes. The trail becomes increasingly steep as you approach the pass, requiring determination and endurance. However, the effort is fully rewarded at the summit, where you will enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.

After taking time to rest, celebrate your achievement, and capture photos, you will begin a descent into the Pacaymayo Valley. This section of the trail leads through beautiful cloud forest scenery, where the environment becomes greener and more diverse.

Along the way, you will pass important archaeological sites such as Runkurakay and Sayacmarca, offering insight into the strategic and ceremonial use of the Inca Trail network. Your guide will provide detailed explanations about these fascinating ruins and their historical significance.

By late afternoon, you will arrive at the Pacaymayo campsite, located at approximately 3,700 meters above sea level, where your tents will be ready. This is the perfect time to relax, recover, and enjoy a well-earned meal after a demanding day of trekking.

Day 5 offers a more enjoyable and scenic pace compared to the previous days, as you continue along the Inca Trail toward the final campsite. While there are still some short ascents, the route is largely downhill, allowing you to fully appreciate the surrounding landscapes.

The day begins with a gentle start, hiking through high-altitude terrain before reaching the second-highest point of the trail at approximately 3,850 meters (12,630 ft). From here, the path gradually descends into the lush cloud forest, where the environment becomes warmer, greener, and more humid.

Along the way, you will visit several remarkable Inca sites, including Phuyupatamarca, known as the “Town in the Clouds.” This impressive archaeological complex offers panoramic views and showcases the sophisticated urban planning of the Incas.

The trail continues past waterfalls, streams, and dense vegetation, providing multiple opportunities to rest, take photos, and enjoy the tranquil surroundings. You will also pass sections near Runkurakay and Sayacmarca, further enriching your journey with historical context and architectural beauty.

By late afternoon, you will arrive at Wiñay Wayna, one of the most impressive sites along the Inca Trail and your final campsite before reaching Machu Picchu. Surrounded by terraces, waterfalls, and mountain scenery, this location offers a truly unforgettable setting for your last night on the trail.

Upon arrival, your camp will be set up, allowing you to relax and enjoy a well-deserved dinner while preparing for the final day of your adventure.

The final day of your adventure is the most anticipated and rewarding, as you reach the legendary Machu Picchu.

The day begins very early, with a short pre-dawn hike toward Inti Punku (Sun Gate), the original entrance used by the Incas. Arriving at sunrise, you will witness one of the most breathtaking moments of the entire journey — Machu Picchu revealed from above, surrounded by mist and mountains.

After taking in this unforgettable view, you will descend toward the citadel, entering the archaeological site and beginning a guided tour led by your professional guide. During this visit, you will explore the most important sectors of Machu Picchu, learning about its history, architecture, and cultural significance.

Following the guided tour, you will have free time to explore the site at your own pace, take photos, and fully absorb the atmosphere of this world-renowned wonder.

In the early afternoon, you will take the bus down to Aguas Calientes, where you will have time to enjoy lunch before boarding your return train.

The train journey departs at approximately 2:30 PM or 2:55 PM, traveling through the Sacred Valley toward Ollantaytambo. Upon arrival, our private transfer will be waiting to take you back to Cusco, with an estimated arrival time of around 6:30 PM.

This marks the end of an extraordinary journey through the Andes, combining the beauty of the Salkantay Trek with the history of the Inca Trail, culminating in the unforgettable experience of Machu Picchu.