Day 01
Day 1: Cusco – Ollantaytambo – Km 104 – Chachabamba – Wiñayhuayna – Inti Punku – Machu Picchu – Aguas Calientes
Today the Flamenco Travel team will pick you up from your hotel in Cusco between 3:00 and 3:30 a.m., depending on the train schedule. This is the start of one of the most iconic experiences in the Andes.
With Flamenco Travel's logistical support, we'll travel by tourist transport to Ollantaytambo, in the Sacred Valley of the Incas. There we'll board the train at approximately 5:00 a.m. bound for Kilometer 104. The ride takes about 90 minutes.
On arrival at Km 104 (2,100 m a.s.l.) we'll pass the Inca Trail entry checkpoint, where they check your permit and your original passport, which must be the same one used for the booking. We'll then begin the hike with a guided visit to the archaeological site of Chachabamba, an ancient Inca complex believed to have had religious and administrative functions.
From there we'll climb along Inca paths and stairways on the slope above the Urubamba River. Along the way we'll see orchids, epiphytic plants, birds and the Phuyuwachi waterfall. After about 3 to 4 hours of hiking (about 6 km) we'll reach Wiñayhuayna (2,650 m a.s.l.), whose name means "Forever Young." This complex of terraces, temples, ceremonial fountains and dwellings connects us directly with the spiritual and agricultural legacy of the Incas. Here we'll stop to rest and enjoy our box lunch.
We'll then hike about 2 more hours to Inti Punku, the Sun Gate (2,720 m a.s.l.), the ancient ceremonial entrance to the citadel. From this high point you'll get your first view of the Historic Sanctuary of Machu Picchu, one of the most anticipated sights for travelers. Then we'll descend to the citadel along the panoramic route.
Afterward, we'll take the bus from Machu Picchu to Aguas Calientes (included). There we'll stay at a hotel or hostel selected by Flamenco Travel. In the evening you'll have an included dinner and free time to rest and get ready for the second day.
Day 02
Day 2: Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu – Ollantaytambo – Cusco
After breakfast at the hotel, we'll take the bus up to Machu Picchu (included), a ride of about 25 minutes. In high season there may be lines. Flamenco Travel will coordinate the departure time based on the entry time on your ticket.
Once inside, we'll take a guided tour of about 2 hours through the citadel. Your guide will explain the history and features of each sector of the authorized circuit.
After the tour you'll have free time for photos, or to climb Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain if you requested them in advance from Flamenco Travel (separate ticket, subject to availability).
To descend to Aguas Calientes you can take the bus, which is not included and paid separately, or walk down in approximately 1 h 30 min. You'll have lunch on your own and can explore the town or visit the hot springs if time allows. In the afternoon we'll take the train from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo, and from there Flamenco Travel's transport will take you to Cusco. You'll arrive in the evening; the exact time depends on the assigned train.
