You will be picked up from your hotel at 4:00 a.m. and transferred to the train station. We will then take the train departing at 6:10 a.m. from Ollantaytambo. During the journey, the train follows the scenic Urubamba River until we arrive at Km 104, where our trek begins. Along the way, you will enjoy spectacular views of farmland, snow-capped mountains, and the powerful Urubamba River, one of the main sources of the Amazon River. Upon arrival at Km 104 (2,000 m / 6,561 ft), we will begin our hike after making sure you have everything you need. Your guide will provide your packed lunch and energy drinks, and we will take a group photo before visiting the first Inca archaeological site of the day. If the weather is clear, you will also enjoy impressive views of Machu Picchu, the Urubamba River, and several surrounding Inca sites.

After hiking for about three hours, we will reach one of the most beautiful Inca sites along the Inca Trail: Wiñay Wayna (“Forever Young”), located at 2,600 m / 8,500 ft. This impressive archaeological site is visited by relatively few travelers, making it a truly special experience. Here you will see an elaborate water fountain system, temples, and impressive agricultural terraces that provide a great opportunity to learn about Inca history, culture, and engineering. The setting of Wiñay Wayna is truly breathtaking—perched dramatically on a mountainside, surrounded by lush vegetation and spectacular mountain scenery. This remarkable location perfectly illustrates the importance the Incas placed on choosing strategic and sacred sites within their landscape.

From Wiñay Wayna, we continue our hike to the Sun Gate (Inti Punku), where we will enjoy our first breathtaking panoramic view of Machu Picchu below. After taking in these once-in-a-lifetime views and capturing memorable photos, we begin our descent toward the citadel to experience Machu Picchu at sunset. One of the greatest advantages of this hike is that by the time we arrive in the late afternoon, most day visitors will have already left, allowing you to enjoy the site in a much quieter and more peaceful atmosphere. After taking photos and enjoying the magical scenery, we will take the bus down to Aguas Calientes, where you will spend the night in a comfortable hotel.