DAY 01: Cusco - Chilca - Wayllabamba
This
morning our bus will take us to Chilca and km. 77 where our trek
will begin along the left bank of the Urubamba River, with splendid
views of the 19,000-foot tall, snow-capped Waqaywillka, or Mt.
Verónica. We will pass the hill fort of Willkaraqay, an
ancient pre-Inka town. From here we look upon the stunning city
of Llaqtapata, or Patallacta, the first of the Inka sites that
we see. Dinner and overnight in tents at the campsite.
DAY 02: Wayllabamba - Warmiwañusca
- Pacaymayo
Begin this morning by hiking gradually uphill, often up flights
of stairs, to cross Warmiwañusqa Pass (Dead Woman’s
Pass!), the highest point of our hike at just over 13,910 feet.
As we climb, we traverse several environmental zones - from temperate
valley forest to the treeless grasslands of the windswept highlands.
After stopping for the endless spectacular views at the gap, we
descend to the Pacaymayo, where you will camp and have dinner.
DAY 03: Pacaymayo - Puya Patamarka - Wiñay Huayna
After breakfast start the descent towards the second most important
pass of the trail at 3,850 m.a.s.l. having a guided visit at the
archaeological complex of Runkurakay and the Inca citadel of Sayacmarca.
It is dramatically located on the edge of a rocky promontory with
spectacular vistas of the Aobamba Valley and the distant snow-covered
peak of Mt. Pumasillo. This royal center is positioned on the edge
of a cloud forest filled with a visual wealth of orchids, colorful
birds and other wildlife, and to reach it we must climb a narrow,
steep staircase cut out of the mountainside’s stone face.
We also pass by Conchamarka, a small, recently discovered tambo.
After
a short break you will continue walking to Wiñay Huayna
(Forever Young) for a guided visit of this impressive archaeological
complex with a spectacular setting.
Perhaps the most beautiful of the citadels along the Inka
road, Wiñaywayna is named for an orchid native to the
area that blooms all year and garlands the city with hues
of brilliant scarlet, violet and gilded umber. Stunningly
located on the steep slope overlooking the Urubamba River,
the architecture of the complex is truly dazzling. Dinner
and overnight at the camp.
DAY 04: Wiñay Huayna - Machu Picchu - Cusco
After breakfast, have a very early start to arrive in time for sunrise
at Machu Picchu. Two more hours of trekking takes us to the Intipunku,
or Gate of the Sun, where we look upon the magnificent citadel of
Machu Picchu below. Upon arrival at Machu Picchu, three-hours guided
tour around the citadel, visiting the main sites and monuments.
After the tour you will have free time to wander around, then you
will meet with the rest of the group to drive by bus down to Aguas
Calientes for lunch (not included). In the afternoon, transfer by
train to Cusco. Upon arrival in Cusco transfer to your selected
hotel.
Note: Briefing one day before the trekking.
End of our services.
