You’ll be picked up from your hotel around 5:30 a.m. (depending on the train schedule) and taken to the Ollantaytambo train station. From there, you’ll take a scenic 2-hour train ride to kilometer 104, where the hike begins.
After crossing a bridge over the Urubamba River, you’ll visit the Chachabamba ruins (2,050 m), known for their water channels and fountains. Then, we’ll hike uphill for about 8 km (around 4 hours). The trail is clear but has lots of stairs, so a good fitness level is needed. Next, we’ll arrive at Wiñay Wayna (2,680 m), a beautiful Inca site with terraces, temples, and housing areas. Many people say it’s the most impressive part of the Inca Trail. We’ll stop here to enjoy our packed lunch.After lunch, we’ll hike for about one more hour to the Sun Gate (Inti Punku – 2,730 m), where you’ll get your first amazing view of Machu Picchu. Since we’ll arrive later in the day, it might be quieter and less crowded.
Then, we’ll take a side trail down to Aguas Calientes (without entering Machu Picchu yet). From there, we’ll take a bus into town, check in to the hotel, and have dinner (not included). Get a good night’s rest – we’ll visit Machu Picchu early the next day!