We will pick you up from your hotel in the early morning for the drive through the Sacred Valley of the Incas to the village of Soccma, where our mule drivers will be waiting for us.
A short hike will take us through fields of corn and potatoes to the impressive 110-meter Perolniyoc waterfall, surrounded by fine scenery. Several species of birds can be spotted in this area. At the top of the waterfall, there is an ancient archaeological site, known as Corimarca. Perched there like a European castle, it offers a great view of the eastern Andes.
After a demanding hike of between 2 and 3 hours, we will reach the pass at 4300 meters. This tough section of the trek will reward us with a superb view of the surrounding glaciers and the valley far below.

Camp at Chancachuco (4200 meters)

After a nourishing breakfast, we will hike through grasslands dominated by snow-capped peaks, their whiteness contrasting with rich red soils and the blue sky. After between 1 and 2 hours we will reach the high pass, from where there are fine views of the glaciers of Mount Veronica (5800 meters) and the fertile Urubamba River, where so many Inca sites are located. From here, we will descend to the Sun Gate, where the Incas once performed ceremonies in honor of their sun god and the mountain god they believed dwelled in Mount Veronica. After another 30 minutes, we will reach our next campsite.

 Camp at Choquetacarpo (3600 meters)

After another creative and tasty breakfast, we will descend to the Inca quarry. From here, gigantic boulders were cut and transported to Ollantaytambo, the temple dedicated to the sun god and the earth goddess. Pink granite was quarried and transported for 8 kilometers to build the temple at Ollantaytambo. Blocks weighing more than 100 tons were moved across the valley.
The descent to the community of Cachiccata will take around 5 hours. From here we will be transported to the Ollantaytambo station (20 minutes), from where we will catch the train to Aguas Calientes (approximately 90 minutes). This is a picturesque train journey through the cloud forests of the Urubamba canyon, making it another highlight of the trip.

Overnight in Aguas Calientes

We will take an early bus up to the ruins of Machu Picchu, to enjoy first light in that magical setting. We will take advantage of the early morning and enjoy the serenity of the ruins. You will be accompanied throughout the site by an expert guide. Other options at Machu Picchu include the hike to the Inca drawbridge, or climbing Wayna Picchu. We will return to the town of Aguas Calientes in the afternoon to board the train to Cusco.

Transfer to your hotel for overnight stay in Cusco

2024 cost per person in US dollars

Departure on Mondays