Day 2: Charcahuallya Pass – The Trek’s Highest Point

Wake up to a beautiful sunrise and breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. After a nutritious breakfast to fuel the day ahead, we begin a 3-hour ascent to the top of Charcahuallya Pass, the highest point of the entire trek. At the summit, we’ll take time to rest, soak in the views, and capture some incredible photos.

We then descend for about 30 minutes to our lunch spot for a well-deserved meal. Afterward, the journey continues with a 2-hour hike toward Cachiccata, also known as «La Buena Negra.» The final stretch is mostly downhill, making for a relaxing walk as we approach our campsite near the Sun Gate (Inti Punku) — with stunning views of Mount Veronica (Wakayhuilka), one of the sacred snowcapped peaks of the Sacred Valley.

Day 2 Details

Accommodation: Campsite
Altitude range: 3,600 m – 4,457 m / 11,585 – 14,623 ft
Distance: 14 km / 8.7 mi
Weather: Warm with occasional wind
Difficulty: Moderate (3/5)
Schedule: 6:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.
Total time: 12h (9h walking)

Day 3: Inca Quarry of Cachiccata to Aguas Calientes

After a hearty breakfast, we begin a 1-hour descent to the Inca Quarry of Cachiccata (3,634 m / 11,923 ft), where you’ll observe the ancient stone-carving techniques used to build Inca temples and cities — a fascinating glimpse into the engineering skill of the Inca civilization.

Next, we visit a series of Inca tombs, believed to have belonged to guardians or important figures of this sacred mountain. The trail then continues with a gentle 2-hour descent into the town of Ollantaytambo (2,840 m / 9,139 ft), where we’ll enjoy lunch and prepare for the next stage of the journey.

In the afternoon, we board the train to Aguas Calientes, gateway to Machu Picchu. Upon arrival, you’ll check in to your hotel and rest ahead of the big day.

Day 3 Details

Accommodation: Hotel
Altitude range: 2,840 m – 3,634 m / 9,139 – 11,923 ft
Distance: 7 km / 4.35 mi
Weather: Warm
Difficulty: Easy (1/5)

Day 4: Machu Picchu Guided Tour & Return to Cusco

We start the day with an early breakfast at the hotel before boarding the bus to Machu Picchu at 5:30 a.m., timed to catch the morning light and the site’s most peaceful hours.

Upon entering the citadel, you’ll enjoy a comprehensive 2-hour guided tour through Machu Picchu’s most important areas — temples, terraces, ceremonial sites, and residential zones — as our expert guide shares the history, legends, and mysteries behind this iconic Inca masterpiece.

After the guided portion, you’ll have free time to explore at your own pace. If you’ve secured tickets for Huayna Picchu, this is the time to make the climb. For those without an additional ticket, there’s still plenty to see — like the Sun Gate (Inti Punku) or the Inca Bridge, both offering spectacular views and unique insight into Inca engineering.

Later, we return by bus to Aguas Calientes, where you’ll have time for lunch before boarding the train back to Ollantaytambo. From there, our private transportation takes you to your hotel in Cusco, marking the end of a truly unforgettable journey.