INCA TRAIL CLASSIC 4 DAYS

INCA TRAIL CLASSIC 4 DAYS 

The classic Inca Trail that leads to the sacred city Machu Picchu is rated among the ten best treks in the world, and is the most famous in South America due to both its ecological diversity from high treeless snow capped peaks to semi tropical cloud forests and the astonishing archeological sites inside the park. This makes it without doubt one of the most diverse hikes on any continent. During the four days of hiking (approximately 6 hours or 12km (7 miles) a day), you will be looked after by our crew including a bilingual guide who will be explaining the wonders of the Inca Empire, an excellent cook, and Quechua porters. You will be staying in well maintained campsites which all include a flushing toilet.

Day 1: Cusco – Start point Km82 – Wallabamba
Between 5:30 and 6:00 am, we will pick you up at your hotel and drive to Km 82 the head of the Inca Trail Piskacuchu (2,680m/8,790ft). Starting at this point, we cross the bridge and walk along the left shore of the Urubamba River as it flows north-west along the Sacred Valley. Following the trail along a flat terrain, we arrive in Miskay (2,800m/9,184ft), to then ascend to the view of the Inca city of Llactapata (2,650m/8,692 ft). All along the way we will see spectacular views of the Vilcanota ridge on the opposite side of the Urubamba River, where we see the impressive Veronica peak (5,682m). We continue trekking along the valley gradually climbing for about five hours until we reach our first campsite in the Wayllabamba village (3,000m/9,840ft).Meals Included: Box-lunch, Dinner

Day 2: Wallabamba – Warmiwañusca -Pacaymayo
We wake up at around 6:00 am, and after breakfast we leave Wayllabamba (3,000 m/9,840 ft)behind to begin the most difficult part of the trek, which consists of an abrupt and steep ascent that stretches for 9 km. Along this climb, the landscape changes from sierra to puna (a dry and high area with little vegetation). On the way to the first mountain pass, the Abra Warmihuañusca means “Dead Woman´s Pass”(4,200m/13,776ft), we see domesticated llamas and alpacas grazing on ichu, one of the few plants that grow at that altitude. We also cross an area of the so called cloud forest, which is the habitat for many different kinds of birds like hummingbirds and sparrows and the Andean bear, which is also called the Spectacled Bear (Tremarctus Ornatus). Immediately after the pass, we descend into the Pacaymayo valley (3,600m/11,808ft), where we camp.Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day3: Pacaymayo – Phuyupatamarka -Wiñaywayna.
This day is the longest but also the most impressive and the most interesting, due the number of archaeological sites that we visit and learn about from our guide. From Pacaymayo we climb to the second pass, the Abra de Runkurakay (3970m/13022ft). Half way up, we visit the archaeological complex with the same name. This site, located at (3800m/12464ft), consists of a small oval structure that is believed to have served the purpose of a watchtower. After going over the pass, we descend towards Yanacocha (Black Lagoon) and enter the cloud-forest to finally arrive at Sayacmarca (3624m/11887ft). This is a beautiful complex made up of a semicircular construction, enclosures at different levels, narrow streets, liturgical fountains, patios and irrigation canals. Continuing up an easy climb, we arrive at the third pass, the Abra of Phuyupatamarca (3700m/12136ft). Along this climb we can appreciate the magnitude of the Incas´ ancient craft, by walking along paths semi-detached from the mountain, and seeing rocks that fill up ravines in perfect order, saving the trail from the multileveled Andean geography. We go through an Inca tunnel to later arrive at the aforementioned pass and down to the complex of the same name. This is one of the most complete and best-preserved archaeological complexes along the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, and is located on the highest point of a mountain. Phuyupatamarca means “Town of the Clouds”. From above, one can observe a sophisticated sacred complex made up of water fountains with solid foundations, and also impressive views of the Urubamba River valley and the long descending stone steps along which we will continue on to Wiñaywayna (2,700m/8,856ft). At this campsite we find a lodge with a restaurant, bar and bathrooms with hot showers. The campsite has the same name as the complex located only five minutes away from the lodge. Wiñaywayna is an impressive complex made up of an agricultural center with numerous terraces, a religious sector and an urban sector. Wiñaywayna becomes the last official camp before Machu Picchu. There is also an eatery where you can buy drinks and even a good old fashioned beer, as well as hot showers (US$ 1.5) and toilets. You will be joined by many more trekkers who gather there, preparing for the last Inca trail hike into Machu Picchu tomorrow. Ensure that you are well rested so that you to wake up in time to catch the marvelous sunrise at Machu Picchu. Remember to always form a tip pool, to be later given to the group (porters, cook, and guide). Generally a sufficient tip ranges from US$ 10 to US$ 40 per tourist. Keep in mind that these are voluntary tips, so tip as you feel depending on the service you got. Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Maximum Altitude: 3970m/13022ft
Minimum Altitude: 2,700 m/8,856 ft
Total distance: 16 km (9, 94 miles)
Estimated walking time: 7-8 hours
Ascent up: 1,270m

Day 4: Wiñaywayna – Machu Picchu – Cusco
On this fourth and last day we get up at 4.00 am to leave Wiñaywayna an hour later and climb to Intipunku, or The Sun Gate (2700m/8829 ft). This will take an hour of hiking along a trail of flat stones on the edges of cliffs in highland jungle. From this fabulous spot, we may see the sunrise over the sacred citadel of Machu Picchu (2400m/7872 ft). From Intipunku we descend into Machu Picchu, and 40 minutes later we enter the citadel from the highest point through the “House of the Guardians”. We then descend to the control point where we register ourselves and leave our backpacks. We immediately begin a complete guided tour of the Inca citadel that will take approximately two hours, and includes the Main Plaza, the Royal Quarters, the Circular Tower, the Temple of the Three Windows, the Sacred Sun Dial (an extremely essential preserved Intihuatana), warehouses, houses, a large central square; as well as all interlinked with one another through thin steps and roads that are bordered by terraces cutting into the mountains. The tour can be as long as 2 hours so around 11:00 you will have the freedom to leisurely saunter about the Archaeological Site.
You will then have free time to walk around. Additional options: If your legs, lungs and energy still hold up after our four days of hiking, it may be possible to climb the peak of HuaynaPicchu Mountain, behind the main site, where one can experience spectacular views of all of Machu Picchu, the valleys and mountains that surround it, or visit the Temple of the Moon. However, special permits are required and they are issued in limited quantities. So if you are interested, tell us in advance, and remained to your guide(s) at the initial briefing for the trek. If permits are not available, you may instead hike to the Inca Bridge or climb Machu Picchu mountain, both located near the site.
In the afternoon, return by shuttle bus to Aguas Calientes, we meet in the town of Aguas Calientes where, if you like, you can visit and relax in the thermal baths. From here we take the train to Ollantaytambo and then bus to the city of Cusco, where we will arrive after nightfall. Transfer to your hotel in Cusco. Meals Included: Breakfast

Maximum Altitude: 2,700 m/8,856 ft
Minimum Altitude: 2,400 m/7,872 ft (Machu Picchu)
Total distance: 8 km (4,97 miles) plus exploration of Machu Picchu
Estimated walking time: 6-7 hours
Ascent up: 300m

INCLUDED
• Informative meeting before departure at your Cusco hotel.
• Collection from your accommodation in the morning.
• Private bus to the trailhead ( KM82 )
• Entrance fees for the Inca trail & Machupicchu
• Specialized guide at the Inca Trail and Machupicchu.
• Excellent cook. the food is rich in carbohydrates and suitable for trekking. Special dietary requirements are catered for as necessary (e.g.: vegetarians).
• Snacks everyday (tea, coffee, biscuits, popcorn).
• All camping equipment which includes: tents, mattresses (no sleeping bag)
• Porters will carry all that is needed on the trek, leaving you to carry your own personal belongings. Extra porters can be hired.
• First aid kit & oxygen tank.
• Tourist bus from the ruins at Machu Picchu down to Aguas Calientes.
• Return ticket on the Expedition train back to Ollantaytambo and bus back to Cusco. The train departs from Aguas Calientes in the afternoon and you will arrive in Cusco after nightfall.

NOT INCLUDED
• Breakfast on the first day. However, you will be given the opportunity to purchase food in Ollantaytambo on the first day.
• Meals which are not mentioned on the itinerary
• Sleeping bag can be hired in Cusco
• Entrance fee to Huayna Picchu Mountain
• Tipping money.
• Extra beverages
• Laundry service.
• Travel Insurance.
• Personal expenses, personal gear or items

• Optional extra porter. For all 4 days you can hire an extra porter who will carry your personal belongings (up to 15kg).

• Entrance to the Huayna Picchu Mountain. Climbing the Huayna Picchu mountain is optional (not guided by our staff) and will be under your own risk and responsibility. Tickets for climbing the Huayna Picchu mountain can be booked for starting time at 07:00hrs (group 1) and at 10:00hrs (group 2), combined with a ticket for Machu Picchu (at time of your booking)

Als gevolg van regelgeving van de Inca Trail (Resolutie nr. 002-2003-UGM-CD) dienen alle reserveringen te worden gedocumenteerd en 100% vooruitbetaald. De reserveringen die gemaakt zijn kunnen niet worden aangepast of gewijzigd. Voor annuleringen is er geen restitutie mogelijk. Een reservering die niet is gedocumenteerd en/of 100% is betaald, wordt automatisch geannuleerd.

RESERVATIONS INCA TRAIL
Due to regulations of the Inca Trail (Resolution N° 002-2003-UGM-CD). All reservations must be documented and paid 100% in advance. The reservations that are made can’t be modified or changed. Cancellations can’t be refunded. If the reservation is not documented and 100% paid, it will be automatically cancelled.

WHEN TO GO
Although you can participate on the Inca Trail trekking throughout the year, the best months to visit Machu Picchu are from April to October. This is the busy / high season (especially June through August), but it is also the dry season. The treks are available throughout the year except in February, when the path has been closed for annual cleaning. Be prepared for rain in the months of November to March.

LIMITED NUMBER OF ENTRIES INCA TRAIL
Due to the daily limited number of people allowed to walk the Inca Trail, established by the Peruvian government, we recommend you book your trip as soon as possible. At least 3 months in advance (6 months for May – September). This is to ensure that you can make the trip on your desired travel dates.

DIFFICULTY RATING:
4 (average fitness required). Please be wary that the path involves high altitude trekking and an average fitness level or above is recommended.
Distance: 47 Km / 29 Miles
Altitude: 2680m/8817ft to 4200m/13818ft
Temperatures: From minus 4ºC to 28ºC
Duration: 4 days / 3 nights (5 days / 4 nights optional).

ACCLIMATIZATION
We recommend you to arrive in Cusco at least 24-48 hours before the start of your Inca Trail trekking to acclimatize to the altitude.

FOOD PROVIDED
All meals are provided during the Inca trail. They are prepared by support staff. Please inform us to in advance of any dietary requirements.

HUAYNA PICCHU
Climbing the Huayna Picchu mountain is optional (not guided by our staff) and will be under your own risk and responsibility. Tickets for climbing the Huayna Picchu mountain can be booked for starting time at 07:00hrs (group 1) and at 10:00hrs (group 2), combined with a ticket for Machu Picchu. Let us know in advance when booking the Inca Trail, if you want to climb this mountain. Tickets are extremely limited.

SUSTAINABILITY
SATS PERU collaborates with local people, using local products and local bilingual guides. We try to protection nature and environment as well as possible and will take care of it during the tour(s).

SATS PERU appreciates the staff which has an important role during the trek. As a responsible tour operator we pay our staff well and we provide each employee with a balanced, high protein diet. The result is that our staff is happy and willing just to take that one extra step to make our customers feel at their best.
Our guide will introduce you to the porters. We would appreciate if you at that time tell something about yourself. Tips are welcome to give to the porters during the last night when all staff celebrates a festive farewell dinner. Gratuities for guides and others are usually paid separately. Tipping is of course to your own discretion, but is always appreciated. A good guideline is about $10 for the porters. Give this tip personally.

WHAT TO BRING
• Original passport
• ISIC card (if you are a student and have booked in advance to qualify for the
discount)
• Sleeping bag (can be hired from us)
• Walking sticks (can be hired from us)
• Backpack
• Comfortable walking shoes and good socks
• Tennis shoes or sandals to wear around town and in the lodges
• Gore-Tex jacket of warm jacket and pants, rainwear
• Long underwear, gloves
• Sunglasses, sunscreen, lip balm, hats (for protection from the sun and from the cold)
• Sun cream (factor 35 or higher)
• Insect repellant
• Water bottle (or a personal alternative)
• Extra batteries for your camera equipment (this will not last as long as possible at low temperatures and there is no possibility to charge them), memory cards and / or film
• Toiletries and hand sanitiser
• Binoculars
• (small) Flashlight, headlamp
• Pocket Knife

Optional: Sandals, bathing suit etc.