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DAY 1: CUSCO – KM 88 – URUBAMBA RIVER – PATALLAQTA – WAYLLABAMBA

ACTIVITIES: Hike alongside the Urubamba River, from Km. 88, lunch in Patallaqta, and camping in Wayllabamba.

DAY 2: WAYLLABAMBA – WARMI WAÑUSQA´S MOUNTAIN PASS – PACAY MAYO

ACTIVITIES: Uphill hike to the Warmi Wañusqa Mountain Pass and, downhill, to Pacay Mayo.

DAY 3: PACAY MAYO – RUNCURACAY – SAYACMARCA – PHUYUPATAMARCA – WIÑAY WAYNA

ACTIVITIES: Uphill hike to Runcuracay and, up and down, to Sayacmarca and Phuyupatamarca and, downhill, to Wiñay Wayna.

DAY 4: WIÑAY WAYNA – MACHU PICCHU – MACHUPICCHU PUEBLO – OLLANTAYTAMBO – CUSCO

ACTIVITIES: Hike, from Wiñay Wayna to Machu Picchu, guided visit of the Incan City, lunch in Machupicchu Pueblo, and train trip to Ollantaytambo.

DAY 1: CUSCO – KM 88 – URUBAMBA RIVER – PATALLAQTA – WAYLLABAMBA

Very early, we´ll pick you up at your hotel and, a group tourism transportation vehicle, we´ll take you to Ollantaytambo, where you´ll take a train to Km. 88 of the railroad tracks (Pisqaccucho – Chilca) which is the trek´s starting point. There, our guide will introduce you to the agency´s support staff that will take care of the catering and transportation of the kitchen and camping gear, as well as of our luggage, during the hike.

Then, you will get registered, with your passports, or identity documents, at the Inca Trail´s Entrance Checkpoint. Afterwards, the first part of the day´s hike runs along the Urubamba River, to the Incan Architectural Complex of Patallaqta, where you´ll have lunch and, in the afternoon, you´ll cross the Wayllabamba Valley, to get to the campsite, where you´ll have dinner, and will spend the night.

DAY 2: WAYLLABAMBA – WARMI WAÑUSQA´S MOUNTAIN PASS – PACAY MAYO

Today, the challenge will consist in an ascent to the trek´s highest point, called ‘Abra de Warmi Wañusqa (Dead Woman´s Mountain Pass), at 4,250 meters above sea level (m.a.s.l. – 13,943 ft.), from which you´ll be able to contemplate the snowcapped mountain range that borders the Inca Trail. Afterwards, you´ll proceed along the Pacay Mayo Valley, to the Pacay Mayo Campsite.

DAY 3: PACAY MAYO – RUNCURACAY – SAYACMARCA – PHUYUPATAMARCA – WIÑAY WAYNA

In the morning, you´ll ascend to Runcuracay which is an Incan enclosure, at 3,700 m.a.s.l. (12,139 ft.), and then, to Sayacmarca; another Incan architectural compound. There, you´ll be on a unique ecological level, in the world, where you´ll have chances to observe a broad biodiversity, in which orchids and birds stand-out.

As you´ll see, all along today´s hike, the Incan path, on which you´ll be walking, is ‘inlaid’ in the mountain slope, all the way to Phuyupatamarca (Urban center above the clouds). Then, you´ll descend, along unending stone steps, to get to the Wiñay Wayna Campsite, where you´ll have dinner, and will spend the night.

DAY 4: WIÑAY WAYNA – MACHU PICCHU – MACHUPICCHU PUEBLO – OLLANTAYTAMBO – CUSCO

This morning, you´ll get-up earlier, to go through the Inca Trail´s Exit Checkpoint, and get to the Inti Punku (Sun God´s Gate), to enjoy the first panoramic views of Machu Picchu. Then, you´ll go on a guided visit, around the Incan City and its main enclosures, such as the Main Square, Temple of the Sun, Inti Huatana, Royal Residence, Three Windows´ Temple, etc.

Afterwards, you´ll have some free time, to stroll around the archaeological complex, before boarding a tourism bus, down to the pedestrian village of Machupicchu Pueblo (ex Aguas Calientes), to have lunch. In the afternoon, you´ll take a train to Ollantaytambo, where a tourism transportation vehicle will take you back to the city of Cusco.

Included:

• Classic 4-day and 3-night trek.
• Bus and train transportation to the trek´s starting point.
• Accommodation in double-capacity tents.
• All meals, and full kitchen and tableware, during the trek.
• 3 breakfasts, 3 lunches and 3 snack-type dinners.
• Kitchen, dining room and restroom tents.
• Porters for the group´s luggage.
• Official tour guide.
• Entrance ticket to Machu Picchu.
• Return train ticket, from Machupicchu Pueblo to Ollantaytambo.
• Transfer, from Ollantaytambo to Cusco.

Not included:

• Extra drinks, in breakfasts.
• Telephone calls.
• Sleeping bags.
• Entrance tickets, for other visits to Machu Picchu.
• Personal porter, to carry personal gear.
• Other costs and expenses not described in this program.

Recommendations:

• 1 medium-size backpack.
• 1 full change of clothes, for each day of the trek.
• 1 warm jacket, and thermic clothes, for cold nights.
• Personal hygiene kit and towel.
• Canteen, to carry water.
• Flashlight, with extra batteries.
• Photo/video camera, with extra batteries.
• Light binoculars.
• Matches and pocket knife.
• Insect repellent and sunblock lotion.
• Hiking boots (preferably waterproof, with ankle protectors).
• Wide-brim hat, or cap, to protect yourself from the sun.
• Sunglasses.
• Towel and toilet paper.
• Impermeable coat or plastic rain poncho.

We recommend you to take appropriate clothes along, for sunny and rainy days, as well as for cold nights, with temperatures below 0°C (32°F), in some areas.

Depending on your interest, take a photo and/or video camera along, as well as binoculars, sunglasses, compass, etc. Obviously, all of these objects must be light, or of moderate weight, and occupy little space in your backpack.

DAY 1: CUSCO – MOLLEPATA – CHALLACANCHA – HUMANTAY LAGOON – SORAYPAMPA

ACTIVITIES: Hike to Soraypampa, Humantay Lagoon, and camping in huts.

DAY 2: SORAYPAMPA – SALKANTAY MOUNTAIN PASS – HUAYRACMACHAY – QOLLPAPAMPA

ACTIVITIES: Uphill hike, Salkantay Mountain Pass, downhill to Huayracmachay, and camping in huts, in Qollpapampa.

DAY 3: COLLPAPAMPA – PLAYA – SANTA TERESA – COCALMAYO´S THERMO-MEDICINAL BATHS

ACTIVITIES: Downhill hike to Playa, alongside the Sayahuaco River, thermo-medicinal baths, in Cocalmayo, and camping in Santa Teresa.

DAY 4: SANTA TERESA – HIDROELÉCTRICA – MACHUPICCHU PUEBLO

ACTIVITIES: Hike to Hidroeléctrica, and hike to Machupicchu Pueblo.

DAY 5: MACHUPICCHU PUEBLO – MACHU PICCHU – OLLANTAYTAMBO – CUSCO

ACTIVITIES: Guided visit of Machu Picchu, and train trip to Ollantaytambo.

DAY 1: CUSCO – MOLLEPATA – CHALLACANCHA – HUMANTAY LAGOON – SORAYPAMPA

Very early, in the morning, we´ll depart from the city of Cusco, aboard a vehicle, on the asphalted Cusco-Lima road, to get to the District of Mollepata and, after a short stopover, we´ll continue, on a compacted dirt road, to Challacancha, where our hike starts.

The first part of the way is a 1-hour ascent, and then, we´ll hike on flat ground, for about two hours and a half, on the mountain´s foothills, bordering an Incan canal. In the afternoon, we´ll go up, to explore the Humantay Lagoon, where we´ll enjoy spectacular views of the surrounding landscape.

Afterwards, we´ll hike through forests with queuñas that are native shrubs of the area, ´till we get to Soraypampa (4,491 m.a.s.l. – 14,734 ft.), where we´ll get settled at the campsite, to have dinner, and spend the night in huts.

DAY 2: SORAYPAMPA – SALKANTAY MOUNTAIN PASS – HUAYRACMACHAY – QOLLPAPAMPA

After a delicious breakfast, we´ll start hiking on a horsepath. Today, we´ll face the longest hike of the whole trek, with a 3-hour ascent, to the Salkantay Mountain Pass (4.650 m.a.s.l. – 15,190 ft.).

Then,  we´ll go on, downhill, to Huayracmachay, where we´ll enjoy a nutritious lunch, to recuperate strength and, afterwards, proceed, downhill, through beautiful woods, with waterfalls, while we observe orchids, birds, etc. Finally, we´ll reach our campsite, in Qollpapampa, to have dinner, and sleep in huts.

DAY 3: QOLLPAPAMPA – PLAYA – SANTA TERESA – COCALMAYO´S THERMO-MEDICINAL BATHS

We´ll start the day´s hike, walking, downhill, on the mountains´ foothills, and along the Sahuayaco River´s bank. From there on, the climate is subtropical and, in that area, there is no malaria. However, the mosquito bites are quite bothersome.

On the way, we´ll walk through beautiful forests and fruit-tree plantations, with avocados, oranges, pacay, bananas, coffee and cacao. Then, towards midday, we´ll get to a place called ‘Playa’, where we´ll have lunch.

Afterwards, we´ll take a local transportation to Santa Teresa, where we´ll get settled at the campsite. In the afternoon, we´ll have free time and, in an optional way, we´ll enjoy Cocalmayo´s thermo-medicinal baths, given that these are just a 30-minute walking distance from the campground.

DAY 4: SANTA TERESA – HIDROELÉCTRICA – MACHUPICCHU PUEBLO

After breakfast, we´ll go on hiking, to get to Hidroeléctrica´s railway station, where we´ll have lunch. Then, we´ll move on, walking between the railroad tracks and Vilcanota River.

During the hike, we´ll have opportunities to contemplate Mount Wayna Picchu, passing through the Mandor Valley, to get to Machupicchu Pueblo (ex Aguas Calientes), where we´ll settle at a hostel, with private bathroom and hot shower, in each room.

DAY 5: MACHUPICCHU PUEBLO – MACHU PICCHU – OLLANTAYTAMBO – CUSCO

Very early in the morning, we´ll walk up to Machu Picchu, and will go on the guided visit of the Incan City, for about 2 hours, as a group. Then, you´ll have some free time, to explore the site, on our own, and take pictures, before walking down to the village, to have lunch, and take the train to Ollantaytambo, where our staff will be awaiting you, at the railway station´s main exit gate, to take you back to your hotel, in Cusco.

Included:

• Group tourism transportation vehicle, from Cusco to Challacancha.
• 2 nights in huts, 1 night in tents and 1 night at a hostel, with private bathroom and hot shower.
• Professional guide.
• 4 breakfasts, 4 lunches and 4 dinners.
• Entrance ticket to the Incan City of Machu Picchu.
• Return train, from Machupicchu Pueblo to Ollantaytambo.
• Transfer, from Ollantaytambo to Cusco.
• Horses to take the camping equipment, and 6 kg (13 pds.) of luggage per participant.

Not included:

• Sleeping bag.
• Entrance ticket to Mount Machu Picchu or Wayna Picchu.
• Bus up to Machu Picchu, or down to Machupicchu Pueblo.
• Entrance ticket to the Humantay Lagoon (S/. 10.00 Nuevos Soles – PEN).
• Entrance ticket to the thermal baths, in Machupicchu Pueblo (S/. 20.00 Nuevos Soles – PEN).

INDIVIDUAL PRICE: S/. 880.00 (NUEVOS SOLES – PEN)

What to bring:

• Medium-size backpack.
• Canteen, to carry water.
• Snacks.
• 1 full change of clothes, per hiking day.
• Personal hygiene kit and towel.
• Mountain hiking shoes.
• Wide-brim hat, sunglasses and sunblock lotion.
• Wool bonnet, scarf and gloves.
• Thermic clothes, for cold nights.
• Rain gear.
• Insect repellent.
• Hiking sticks, with rubber tips.
• Photo/video camera, with extra batteries.
• Light binoculars.
• Flashlight, with extra batteries.
• Extra cash, in Nuevos Soles (PEN).

DAY 1: CUSCO – PALPICHU – CHILLIPAHUA

ACTIVITIES: hike, and camping in Chillipahua.

DAY 2: CHILLIPAHUA – ANCASCOCHA

ACTIVITIES: Hike, Chuchuccasa Mountain Pass, and camping in Ancascocha.

DAY 3: ANCASCOCHA – CAMICANCHA

ACTIVITIES: Hike, valley with subtropical forest, and camping in Camicancha.

DAY 4: CAMICANCHA – OLLANTAYTAMBO

ACTIVITIES: Hike, Silke Valley, and Sacred River, to Ollantaytambo.

DAY 5: OLLANTAYTAMBO – KM 104 – INCA TRAIL – MACHU PICCHU

ACTIVITIES: Train trip, from Ollantaytambo to Km. 104, hike to the Sun God´s Gate, and down to Machupicchu Pueblo.

DAY 6: MACHUPICCHU PUEBLO – MACHU PICCHU – OLLANTAYTAMBO – CUSCO

ACTIVITIES: Guided visit of Machu Picchu, and train trip to Ollantaytambo.

DAY 1: CUSCO – PALPICHU – CHILLIPAHUA

Very early, in the morning, we´ll pick you up, at your respective hotels, aboard our transportation vehicle, to travel, for about an hour, and get to Pallpicho (3,260 m.a.s.l. – 10,695 ft.). There, we´ll have breakfast, with the support staff, muleteers and cook who will be waiting for us, to load the camping equipment and personal belongings we´ll be using at the campgrounds, and during the trek, upon burden animals.

Afterwards, we´ll set-off on our trek, the first part of which is a gradual uphill incline, to get to Wata (3,860 m.a.s.l. – 12,664 ft.); a pre-Incan architectural complex. After a short stopover, we´ll hike downhill and, after lunch, we´ll walk, up and down, to our campground, in Chillipahua, at an altitude of 3,560 m.a.s.l. (11,679 ft.).

DAY 2: CHILLIPAHUA – ANCASCOCHA

After a pleasant breakfast, we´ll hike, uphill, to the Chuchuccasa Mountain Pass, at 4,560 m.a.s.l. (14,960 ft.) and, after a short stopover, we´ll walk, downhill, for about an hour, to our lunch spot. Afterwards, we´ll hike on an up-and-down trail, all the way to our campsite, in Ancascocha (4,000 m.a.s.l. – 13,123 ft.).

DAY 3: ANCASCOCHA – CAMICANCHA

After breakfast, we´ll start walking towards a quite beautiful valley, where we´ll cross a subtropical forest, with orchids and bromeliads. In the afternoon, we´ll get to our campground, in Camicancha, where we´ll have dinner, and will spend the night, in front of snowcapped Mount La Verónica.

DAY 4: CAMICANCHA – OLLANTAYTAMBO

After breakfast, we´ll start hiking, along the Silke Valley, on the Sacred River´s bank, to Ollantaytambo, where we´ll have dinner, and will spend the night, at a hostel, with private bathroom and hot shower.

DAY 5: OLLANTAYTAMBO – KM 104 – INCA TRAIL – MACHU PICCHU

In the morning, we´ll take the train, from Ollantaytambo to Km. 104, where we´ll get on the Inca Trail that connects the Sun´s Gate to Machu Picchu, while we go by Incan architectural complexes like Chachabamba and Wiñay Wayna.

In addition, we´ll have the opportuity to contemplate wonderful landscapes, similar to a live green carpet, throughout the whole year, given that this area is located in the High Jungle; reason for which we´ll have chances to observe orchids and some birds, like the famous hummingbird, among others.

Finally, we´ll get to take our first pictures of Machu Picchu, from the Sun´s Gate and, after that, we´ll walk down to Machu Picchu´s Entrance Checkpoint, to go down to Machupicchu Pueblo (ex Aguas Calientes), to have dinner, and spend the night at a hostel, with private bathroom and hot shower.

DAY 6: MACHUPICCHU PUEBLO – MACHU PICCHU – OLLANTAYTAMBO – CUSCO

After breakfast, at the hostel, we´ll go up, by bus, to do the guided visit of the Peruvian Wonder of the Modern World, getting to know the Incan City´s most important architectural compounds. After that memorable visit, if you have booked other activities, such as going up Mount Wayna Picchu, or Machu Picchu Mountain, you´ll go up, and will explore them, in accordance with the schedule set by the Ministry of Culture.

To book one (or both) of those activities, contact us. That way, we´ll be able to confirm space availability, for any one of them.

Once Machu Picchu´s visit over, we´ll catch a bus, down to Machupicchu Pueblo and, after lunch, we´ll take the train, to return to Ollantaytambo, where our staff will transfer you back to your hotel, in Cusco.

Included:

• 1-way tourism transportation vehicle.
• Professional tour guide.
• Support staff and burden animals.
• Camping gear, and kitchen equipment.
• 3 nights at campsites.
• 2 nights at hostels, with private bathroom and hot shower.
• 5 breakfasts, 5 lunches and 5 dinners.
• Entrance ticket to Machu Picchu.
• Return train, from Machupicchu Pueblo to Ollantaytambo.
• Transfer, from Ollantaytambo, back to Cusco.

Not included:

• Lunch in Machupicchu Pueblo, on the sixth day.
• Entrance ticket to Machupicchu Pueblo´s Thermal Baths.
• Tips and personal expenses.

What to bring:

• Medium-size backpack.
• Canteen, to carry water.
• Snacks.
• 1 full change of clothes per hiking day.
• Personal hygiene kit and towel.
• Mountain hiking shoes.
• Wide-brim hat, sunglasses and sunblock lotion.
• Rain gear.
• Insect repellent.
• Hiking sticks, with rubber tips.
• Photo/video camera, with extra batteries.
• Light binoculars.
• Flashlight, with extra batteries.
• Extra cash, in Nuevos Soles (PEN).

DAY 1: CUSCO – KM 82 – MANDOR

ACTIVITIES: Hike (8 hours), camping in Mandor.

DAY 2: MANDOR – MACHUPICCHU PUEBLO – MACHU PICCHU – MACHUPICCHU PUEBLO

ACTIVITIES: Hike (1 hour and a half), guided visit of Machu Picchu, and free stroll around Machupicchu Pueblo.

DAY 3: MACHUPICCHU PUEBLO – HIDROELÉCTRICA – COCALMAYO – CUSCO

ACTIVITIES: Hike (3 hours), and Thermo-medicinal Baths of Cocalmayo.

DAY 1: CUSCO – KM 82 – MANDOR

At 7:00 a.m., we´ll pick you up at your hotel and, aboard our transportation, we´ll head towards Km. 82 of the railroad tracks. There, as a group, we´ll start walking, for about 8 hours, to Mandor, where we´ll have dinner, and will sleep, at a campground. In the course of our hike, we´ll pass by some Incan architectural compounds, like Salapuncu and Canabamba.

DAY 2: MANDOR – MACHUPICCHU PUEBLO – MACHU PICCHU – MACHUPICCHU PUEBLO

Today, we´ll start-off at 7:00 a.m., to hike to Machupicchu Pueblo (ex Aguas Calientes) and, after lunch, we´ll go up, by foot, to visit the Incan City of Machu Picchu. After the guided visit, we´ll walk down to the village, to enjoy a stroll, have dinner, and spend the night at a hostel, with private bathroom and hot shower.

DAY 3: MACHUPICCHU PUEBLO – HIDROELÉCTRICA – COCALMAYO – CUSCO

In the morning, we´ll hike, for about 3 hours, to Hidroeléctrica´s railway station, where a transportation vehicle will take us to Cocalmayo. There, we´ll have the option to take a dip in the local thermo-medicinal baths and, after lunch, we´ll return to the city of Cusco, aboard a mini-van, and will get there around 9:30 p.m.

Included:

• Transfer to Km. 82.
• 1 night at a campground, in Mandor.
• 1 night at a hostel, in Machupicchu Pueblo.
• Entrance ticket to Machu Picchu.
• Professional guide.
• 2 breakfasts, 2 lunches and 2 dinners.
• Transportation, from Hidroeléctrica to Cusco.

Not inlcuded:

• Tips.
• Personal expenses.

What to bring:

• Medium-size backpack.
• Canteen, to carry water.
• Snacks.
• 1 full change of clothes per hiking day.
• Personal hygiene kit and towel.
• Mountain hiking shoes.
• Wide-brim hat, sunglasses and sunblock lotion.
• Rain gear.
• Insect repellent.
• Hiking sticks, with rubber tips.
• Photo/video camera, with extra batteries.
• Light binoculars.
• Flashlight, with extra batteries.
• Extra cash, in Nuevos Soles (PEN).

DAY 1: CUSCO – PISAQ – URUBAMBA – OLLANTAYTAMBO – MACHUPICCHU PUEBLO

ACTIVITIES: guided visit of Pisaq´s Incan Architectural Complex, visit of Pisaq´s Handicraft Market, buffet-lunch in Urubamba, guided visit of Ollantaytambo´s Incan Architectural Complex, and train trip, from Ollantaytambo to Machupicchu Pueblo.

DAY 2: MACHU PICCHU – OLLANTAYTAMBO – CUSCO

ACTIVITIES: Guided visit of Machu Picchu, and train trip to Ollantaytambo.

DAY 1: CUSCO – PISAQ – URUBAMBA – OLLANTAYTAMBO – MACHUPICCHU PUEBLO

We´ll start the day, picking our travelers up, at their respective hotels. Then, aboard our tourism bus, we´ll head towards the Sacred Valley, to visit the Incan Architectural Complex of Pisaq, situated about 30 kilometers (18 miles) from Cusco. Among its most outstanding sectors are the Qallaqasa, the Military Sector, Incan Cemetery, Inti Huatana, the Urban Sector, the Qolcas and Agricultural Benched Terraces.

After that guided visit, we´ll go down to the bottom of the valley, to visit Pisaq´s Handicraft Market. Then, we´ll go on, aboard our vehicle, to the small town of Urubamba, where we´ll have lunch.

In the afternoon, about 30 minutes, by bus, from there, we´ll visit Ollantaytambo´s Incan Architectural Complex. Afterwards, we´ll take the train to Machupicchu Pueblo (ex Aguas Calientes), to have dinner, and spend the night at a budget hotel, with private bathroom and hot shower.

DAY 2: MACHU PICCHU – OLLANTAYTAMBO – CUSCO

According to the programed schedule, to enter Machu Picchu, we´ll take a bus, for about 30 minutes, up to the Incan City. Then, we´ll go on the guided visit and, after a light 15-minute hike, we´ll get to the highest part of the archaeological complex, from which we´ll have the opportunity to take pictures at will, in front of the world-famous Mount Wayna Picchu, from an open vantage point, where the guide will give us the whole information on Machu Picchu´s history, and about its scientific discovery.

Going on with the circuit, we´ll visit the Guardian´s House, followed by the Ceremonial Rock. Then, we´ll go down to the Quarry, visiting the Main Temple, Three Windows´ Temple, Inti Huatana, the Astronomical Mirrors´ Room, the Huayranas and Sacred Rock, as well as the Condor´s Temple and other areas of Machu Picchu, in accordance with the set entrance schedule.

Once the visit over, you´ll once again take a bus, down to Machupicchu Pueblo, where you´ll have lunch, before taking the train, in the afternoon, to go back to Ollantaytambo. There, our staff will take you back to your hotel, in Cusco, along with the rest of your group.

Included:

• Group tourism transportation vehicle.
• English and Spanish speaking guide.
• Inca Rail´s Tourism Train (Expedition or Executive): Ollantaytambo – Machupicchu Pueblo – Ollantaytambo.
• 1 hotel night, in Machupicchu Pueblo.
• Bus up to Machu Picchu, and down to Machupicchu Pueblo.
• 2-hour guided tour, in Machu Picchu.
• Entrance ticket to the Incan City.
• Transfer, from Ollantaytambo´s railway station to your hotel, in Cusco.

Not included:

• Lunch in Machupicchu Pueblo, on the second day.
• Tips and personal expenses.

What to bring:

• Medium-size backpack.
• Canteen, to carry water.
• Snacks.
• 1 full change of clothes per hiking day.
• Personal hygiene kit and towel.
• Mountain hiking shoes.
• Wide-brim hat, sunglasses and sunblock lotion.
• Rain gear.
• Insect repellent.
• Hiking sticks, with rubber tips.
• Photo/video camera, with extra batteries.
• Light binoculars.
• Flashlight, with extra batteries.
• Extra cash, in Nuevos Soles (PEN).

DAY 1: CUSCO – HIDROELÉCTRICA – MACHUPICCHU PUEBLO

ACTIVITIES: Hiking (3 hours).

DAY 2: MACHU PICCHU – HIDROELÉCTRICA – CUSCO

ACTIVITIES: Guided visit of Machu Picchu (2 hours and a half), and hiking (3 hours).

DAY 1: CUSCO – HIDROELÉCTRICA – MACHUPICCHU PUEBLO

One day before your departure, you and your group will have an interview, with your guide who will give you the program´s detailed information.

At the indicated time, we´ll pick you up, at your respective hotels, on board our tourism transportation vehicle, to go to the Hidroeléctrica Railway Station, on a 5-hour trip, arriving there for lunch. Then, the group will start a 3-hour hike, without any guide, from Hidroeléctrica to Machupicchu Pueblo (ex Aguas Calientes), given that there only is one path that follows the railroad tracks. Once in the village, you´ll walk to your budget accommodation.

DAY 2: MACHU PICCHU – HIDROELÉCTRICA – CUSCO

Very early, the group will walk a 30-minute downhill and flat stretch. Then, crossing a bridge, all will walk up zigzagging stairways, for an hour, to reach Machu Picchu´s Main Entrance Gate.

Once at the Entrance Checkpoint, you´ll meet your guide, and then, after having used the public restrooms, you´ll enter the Incan City, with a group, for the two and a half-hour guided visit through its main architectural compounds.

Then, you´ll have some free time, to explore the site, on your own, and take pictures. At the indicated time, everyone will go down, by foot, to Machupicchu Pueblo, and will hike to Hidroeléctrica, for about 3 hours. Between 2:30 and 3:00 p.m., our vehicle will pick you up, in Hidroeléctrica, to return to Cusco, where the tour will end around 9:30 p.m.

Included:

• Transfers: Cusco – Hidroeléctrica – Cusco
• 1 lunch, 1 dinner and 1 breakfast.
• Local guide, in Machu Picchu.
• Entrance ticket to the Incan City.
• Budget accommodation, with private bathroom and hot shower, in Machupicchu Pueblo.

Not included:

• Lunch, in Machupicchu Pueblo, on the second day.
• Tips and personal expenses.

What to bring:

• Medium-size backpack, with a full change of clothes, in successive layers.
• Mosquito repellent, sunblock lotion, wide-brim hat and sunglasses.
• Rain equipment, hiking shoes, towel and swimsuit.
• Personal hygiene kit and towel.
• Hiking sticks, with rubber tips.
• Photo/video camera, with extra batteries.
• Light binoculars.
• Flashlight, with extra batteries.
• Extra cash, in Nuevos Soles (PEN).

DAY 1: CUSCO – SANTA TERESA

ACTIVITIES: Free time, in the afternoon.

DAY 2: SANTA TERESA – HIDROELÉCTRICA – MACHUPICCHU PUEBLO

ACTIVITIES: Ziplining and hiking.

DAY 3: MACHU PICCHU – HIDROELÉCTRICA – CUSCO

ACTIVITIES: Guided visit of Machu Picchu, and hiking.

DAY 1: CUSCO – SANTA TERESA

Between 7:00 and 7:30 a.m., we´ll pick you up at your hotel, and then, as a group, we´ll transfer you to Santa Teresa, in about 5 to 6 hours, on board a tourism transportation vehicle. There, we´ll accommodate you at a tourist inn, in rooms with private bathroom. In the afternoon, you´ll have some free time, and the option of enjoying Cocalmayo´s Thermo-medicinal Baths.

DAY 2: SANTA TERESA – HIDROELÉCTRICA – MACHUPICCHU PUEBLO

At 8:00 a.m., our staff will pick you up, to enjoy a Zipline activity. Then, they will transfer you, aboard a tourism transportation vehicle, to the Hidroeléctrica Railway Station, where you´ll start a 3-hour hike, along the railroad tracks, all the way to the pedestrian village of Machupicchu Pueblo (ex Aguas Calientes). On the Main Square, the inn´s staff will be waiting for you, and will help you get settled in your respective rooms, with private bathroom and hot shower.

DAY 3: MACHU PICCHU – HIDROELÉCTRICA – CUSCO

At 4:30 a.m., the group and its guide will walk, from the inn to Machu Picchu´s Entrance Checkpoint, to contemplate the sunrise, inside the Incan City. The first stretch of the way is downhill (15 minutes), and then, flat, for about 15 minutes. Afterwards, the path goes up, for about an hour, along zigzaging stone stairways, on the mountain slope, all the way to Machu Picchu´s Main Entrance Gate.

There, you´ll meet the official local guide who you will go on the 2-hour visit with, starting by the Guardian´s House, going by agricultural benched terraces, the Temple of the Sun, Water Fountains, the Inca´s Residence, Three Windows´ Temple, Sacred Rock, etc. Afterwards, you´ll have an extra hour, of free time, to explore Machu Picchu, on your own, and take pictures.

Once the visit over, you´ll walk back down to the village, where you´ll have lunch. In the afternoon, you´ll go on the 3-hour hike to the Hidroeléctrica Railway Station, where our tourism transportation vehicle will pick you up, and will take you back to the city of Cusco, arriving at the San Francisco Square, around 10:00 p.m.

Included:

• Group transportation, from Cusco to Santa Teresa.
• 2 nights at an inn, with private bathroom and hot shower.
• 1 lunch, 1 dinner and 1 snack.
• Entrance ticket to the Incan City of Machu Picchu.
• Group guided visit of Machu Picchu.

Not included:

• Lunch in Machupicchu Pueblo, on the second day.
• Entrance tocket to Machupicchu Pueblo´s Thermal Baths.
• Tips and personal expenses.

What to bring:

• Medium-size backpack, with a full change of clothes, in successive layers.
• Mosquito repellent, sunblock lotion, wide-brim hat and sunglasses.
• Rain gear, hiking shoes, towel and swimsuit.
• Personal hygiene kit and towel.
• Hiking sticks with rubber tips.
• Photo/video camera, with extra batteries.
• Light binoculars.
• Flashlight with extra batteries.
• Extra cash, in Nuevos Soles (PEN).

DAY 1: CUSCO – OLLANTAYTAMBO – KM. 104 – WIÑAY WAYNA – INTI PUNKU – MACHU PICCHU

ACTIVITIES: Train trip to Km. 104, on the Cusco-Quillabamba railway. Hike, guided visit of Wiñay Wayna, and arrival in Machu Picchu, through the Sun God´s Gate (Inti Punku).

DAY 2: MACHU PICCHU – MACHUPICCHU PUEBLO – OLLANTAYTAMBO – CUSCO

ACTIVITIES: Guided visit of Machu Picchu, free time, exploration of the Incan City, lunch in Machupicchu Pueblo, and train trip to Ollantaytambo.

DAY 1: CUSCO – OLLANTAYTAMBO – KM. 104 – WIÑAY WAYNA – INTI PUNKU – MACHU PICCHU

At 3:30 a.m., we´ll pick you up at your hotel, aboard our group transportation vehicle, to head towards Ollantaytambo´s railway station, and board a train bound to Machupicchu Pueblo (ex Aguas Calientes). However, we´ll get off the train, at Km. 104, to start our trek, on the Inca Trail, as we register at the Chachabamba Checkpoint.

The first part of the hike consists in a gradual two and a half hour-ascent, to get to the Incan Architectural Complex of Wiñay Wayna which our guide will show us, commenting on its numerous agricultural benched terraces built on the mountainous slope, and giving us details about its houses, temples and water fountains that still work, up to this very day, while we enjoy impressive views of a waterfall.

After the visit, we´ll have a box-lunch, and then, we´ll go through the second checkpoint, to go on walking on a pleasant ondulating path, covered by the canopies of beautiful trees. Finally, we´ll get to the Inti Punku, or Sun God´s Gate, from which we´ll contemplate the first views of Machu Picchu that, sometimes, is wrapped-up in clouds.

After having taken excellent pictures, we´ll walk down to Machu Picchu´s Entrance Checkpoint, to take a tourism bus that will take us down to the pedestrian village of Machupicchu Pueblo, to have dinner, and spend the night at a hotel.

DAY 2: MACHU PICCHU – MACHUPICCHU PUEBLO – OLLANTAYTAMBO – CUSCO

At 7:00 a.m., we´ll board a bus, to go up to Machu Picchu and, before going through the Entrance Checkpoint, we´ll use the public restrooms, because there aren´t any inside the Incan City.

Once inside the archaeological complex, we´ll enjoy a guided visit, of Machu Picchu´s main architectural compounds, after which we´ll have some free time, to explore the site, on our own, and take pictures.

Then, once again, we´ll take the bus, down to Machupicchu Pueblo, where we´ll have lunch and, in the afternoon, a train will take us back to Ollantaytambo. There, our agency´s staff will be awaiting, and will help you board the transportation vehicle, to return to the city of Cusco, where it will drop you off, in front of your respective hotels.

Included:

• Transportation, from the hotel to Ollantaytambo´s railway station.
• Inca Rail´s Expedition or Executive Train, from Ollantaytambo to Km. 104.
• Entrance ticket to the Inca Trail.
• Professional guide.
• Bus down, from Machu Picchu to Machupicchu Pueblo.
• Bus up, from Machupicchu Pueblo to Machu Picchu, on the second day.
• One box-lunch.
• Entrance ticket to the Incan City of Machu Picchu.
• One night at a budget hotel, in Machupicchu Pueblo.
• Transfer from Ollantaytambo´s railway station, to your hotel, in Cusco.

Not included:

• Lunch in Machupicchu Pueblo, on the second day.
• Entrance ticket to Machupicchu Pueblo´s Thermal Baths.
• Tips and personal expenses.

What to bring:

• Original passport or identification document.
• Mosquito repellent.
• Impermeable coat or plastic poncho for the rain.
• Personal hygiene kit and towel.
• Hiking sticks with rubber tips.
• Canteen for water.
• Hiking shoes.
• Photo and/or video camera, with extra batteries.
• Flashlight with extra batteries.
• Light binoculars.
• Extra cash, in Nuevos Soles (PEN).
• Sunglasses, wide-brim hat and sunblock lotion.

DAY 1: CUSCO – CAPULIYOC – PLAYA ROSALINA – SANTA ROSA

ACTIVITIES: downhill hike, from Capuliyoc to Playa Rosalina and, uphill, to Santa Rosa.

DAY 2: SANTA ROSA – CHOQUEQUIRAO

ACTIVITIES: Uphill hike, from Santa Rosa to Choquequirao.

DAY 3: CHOQUEQUIRAO – MISKI UNUYOC

ACTIVITIES: Hike, from Choquequirao to Miski Unuyoc.

DAY 4: MISKI UNUYOC – RÍO BLANCO – MAIZAL

ACTIVITIES: Downhill hike, from Miski Unuyoc to the Río Blanco and Maizal.

DAY 5: MAIZAL – VICTORIA MINES´ MOUNTAIN PASS – YANAMA – SANTA TERESA

ACTIVITIES: Uphill hike, from Maizal to the Victoria Mines Mountain Pass and, downhill, to Yanama, and transportation to Santa Teresa.

DAY 6: SANTA TERESA – MACHUPICCHU PUEBLO – MACHU PICCHU – OLLANTAYTAMBO – CUSCO

ACTIVITIES: Hike to Machu Picchu, guided visit of the Incan City, lunch in Machupicchu Pueblo, and train trip to Ollantaytambo.

DAY 1: CUSCO – CAPULIYOC – PLAYA ROSALINA – SANTA ROSA

At 6:00 a.m., we´ll pick you up at your hotel, to set-off on a 4-hour trip, as a group, aboard our tourism transportation vehicle, and get to the trek´s starting point, where our agency´s support staff will be waiting for us, with mules and horses, to carry the camping and kitchen equipment, as well as our luggage.

So, we´ll start the trek, in Capuliyoc; a vantage point that offers beautiful views towards the Apurímac Canyon. If we are lucky, from there, we´ll have the chance to sight condors; the world´s largest flying birds, in their majestic flight.

First, we´ll hike, down-slope, on a silent and zigzagging trail, along which one can only hear the mules´ steps, and our own, together with birds´ songs. Going on, for about 4 hours, downhill, in the Apurímac Canyon, we´ll get to a place called ‘Playa Rosalina’, where we´ll have lunch. Then, crossing the bridge, upon the river, we´ll walk for another 2 hours, to get to Santa Rosa, where we´ll have dinner, and will spend the night, at a campsite.

DAY 2: SANTA ROSA – CHOQUEQUIRAO

After having enjoyed a delicious breakfast, we´ll get back on the trek, uphill, towards Choquequirao, for about 2 hours, to then go on, for another hour, on an up-and-down path. After lunch, we´ll visit the lower part of Choquequirao, and the Pacchayoc Benched Terraces, where we´ll have the chance to admire a beautiful waterfall. Finally, we´ll conclude the day´s hike, at the Choquequirao Campsite, where we´ll have dinner, and will spend the night.

DAY 3: CHOQUEQUIRAO – MISKI UNUYOC

Today, we´ll get-up early, to explore the Lamas´ Sector, in which 38 lamas stand-out, with white stones, in the benched terraces. In the lower part of the Incan architectural complex, we´ll also see these lamas´ shepherd, represented with the same white stones.

Then, we´ll visit the Sacred Square, the Usnu and other sectors of the great Incan ‘llaqta’ (multifunctional urban center). Afterwards, we´ll start hiking, downhill, for half an hour, and will stop for lunch. In the afternoon, we´ll walk down to Miski Unuyuc, where we´ll sight beautiful Incan benched terraces, and will camp, nearby there.

DAY 4: MISKI UNUYOC – RÍO BLANCO – MAIZAL

After breakfast, we´ll start to hike, downhill, towards the Río Blanco (White River), in about two hours, crossing the river, and up, to Maizal, in about 4 hours. In that area, the few inhabitants, who live there, grow corn, and raise livestock, as well as some mules. So, we´ll have dinner, and will spend the night, at the campsite of a Maizal family.

DAY 5: MAIZAL – VICTORIA MINES´ MOUNTAIN PASS  – YANAMA – SANTA TERESA

This morning, we´ll wake-up early, to have breakfast, and will get on with the hike, towards the Victoria Mines´ Mountain Pass, going by many tunnels, in which, in the past, miners would extract silver and copper, although, now, these mines are abandoned. Finally, we´ll go down to Yanama; a small village, where we´ll have lunch, and from which we´ll ride, aboard a public transportation vehicle, to the locality of Santa Teresa, where we´ll have dinner, and will spend the night.

DAY 6: SANTA TERESA – MACHUPICCHU PUEBLO – MACHU PICCHU – OLLANTAYTAMBO – CUSCO

Around 4:30 a.m., we´ll start walking, uphill, to Machu Picchu, to see the Sun rise, in the Incan City´s immediate vicinity. Then, we´ll go on the guided visit, through the main attractions of the Incan architectural complex and, afterwards, we´ll have some free time, to explore it, and take pictures, ´till 12:00 noon.

Finally, we´ll walk down, to have lunch in Machupicchu Pueblo (ex Aguas Calientes) and, in the afternoon, we´ll board the train that will take us to Ollantaytambo, to then return to Cusco, on a tourism transportation vehicle.

Included:

• Transportation: Cusco-Capuliyoc.
• Entrance ticket to Choquequirao.
• 6 breakfasts, 5 lunches and 5 dinners.
• 5 nights in tents.
• Isolating mattress.
• 1 night at an inn, in Santa Teresa.
• Professional guide.
• Mules, to carry the camping and kitchen gear, as well as 8 kg. (17.10 pds.), per participant.
• Cook and kitchen assistant.
• Muleteer and ‘carpero’ (tent man).
• Entrance ticket to Machu Picchu.
• Return train: Machupicchu Pueblo-Ollantaytambo.
• Transfer: Ollantaytambo-Cusco.

Not included:

• Entrance ticket to Cocalmayo´s thermo-medicinal baths, in Santa Teresa.
• Bus up to Machu Picchu, and down to Machupicchu Pueblo.
• Lunch, in Machupicchu Pueblo, on the last day.
• Tips for the support staff.
• Other personal expenses.

What to bring:

• Medium-size backpack.
• Canteen, to carry water.
• Snacks.
• 1 full change of clothes, per hiking day.
• Personal hygiene kit and towel.
• Mountain hiking shoes.
• Wide-brim hat, sunglasses and sunblock lotion.
• Wool bonnet, scarf and gloves.
• Thermic clothes, for cold nights.
• Rain gear.
• Insect repellent.
• Hiking sticks, with rubber tips.
• Photo/video camera, with extra batteries.
• Light binoculars.
• Flashlight, with extra batteries.
• Extra cash, in Nuevos Soles (PEN).