Highlight of the Day: Reaching Ipsaycocha Pass (4,450 m / 14,600 ft) and witnessing sweeping views of glacial lakes and snow-covered peaks.

The day begins with a warm cup of coca tea delivered to your tent, followed by a nourishing breakfast to prepare for the most demanding section of the trek. Today you ascend to Ipsaycocha Pass, the highest point of the entire route.

The climb takes approximately 2 to 3 hours, following rugged high-altitude trails through ichu grasslands and rocky terrain. As you gain elevation, the surrounding glaciers of Pitusiray and Sahuasiray appear increasingly close, creating an unforgettable sense of scale. At the summit, you are rewarded with a spectacular 360° panorama of glacial lakes, mountain ranges, and absolute silence broken only by the wind.

From the pass, the trail descends for about an hour to Ipsaycocha Lake, where a freshly prepared lunch awaits beside the glacial waters—an ideal moment to rest and recover.

The journey continues with a gradual descent of roughly two more hours through valleys shared with alpacas, llamas, and sheep. Along the way, you may spot native wildlife such as vizcachas, Andean ducks, and occasionally the Andean fox. You will also pass remote Quechua-speaking communities, where your guide helps facilitate meaningful cultural exchanges.

By late afternoon, you arrive at Patacancha (3,700 m / 12,139 ft), a traditional Andean community known for its textile artistry and welcoming atmosphere, where you will camp for the night.

Trek Statistics

• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Afternoon Snack, Dinner
• Accommodation: Camping at Patacancha
• Difficulty: Challenging
• Hiking Distance: 15 km (9.3 mi)
• Hiking Time: 6–7 hours
• Starting Elevation: 3,750 m (12,300 ft)
• Highest Point: 4,450 m (14,600 ft) – Ipsaycocha Pass
• Lowest Point / Campsite: 3,700 m (12,139 ft)

Highlight of the Day: Passing through the traditional weaving community of Willoq and enjoying a scenic train journey along the Urubamba River.

After breakfast, the trek begins with a gentle downhill descent through the valley toward the community of Willoq (Huilloc), one of the most culturally preserved villages in the Sacred Valley. Here, locals wear distinctive red ponchos and hand-embroidered garments that reflect their ancestral identity and worldview. Your guide facilitates respectful interaction and translation, offering insight into their daily life and traditions.

Continuing downhill, you reach Huarán, where private transport takes you to Ollantaytambo (2,792 m / 9,160 ft), a living Inca settlement where ancient stone streets and irrigation channels remain in use. You will have time here for lunch and to explore the historic town.

In the afternoon, you board the scenic train from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes (2,040 m / 6,693 ft). The journey follows the Urubamba River through a dramatic transition from high Andes to lush cloud forest landscapes.

Upon arrival, your Machu Picchu guide will meet you at the station and escort you to your hotel, where you will review the details for the following day’s visit.

This is a transitional day, offering a blend of cultural immersion and relaxed travel. If time permits, you may explore Ollantaytambo before departure. Prepare your daypack for Machu Picchu, including passport, sunscreen, water, and a rain jacket.

Trek Statistics

• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
• Accommodation: Hotel in Aguas Calientes (double room)
• Difficulty: Easy (predominantly downhill)
• Hiking Distance: 10 km (6.2 mi)
• Hiking Time: 3 hours
• Starting Elevation: 3,700 m (12,139 ft)
• Lowest Elevation: 2,040 m (6,693 ft)

Highlight of the Day: Witnessing Machu Picchu emerge through the morning mist during a private guided exploration.

After breakfast at your hotel in Aguas Calientes, you take an early bus that winds up the mountainside to the entrance of Machu Picchu (2,430 m / 7,972 ft). The short 25-minute journey offers dramatic views of the Urubamba River valley as anticipation builds for the visit ahead.

Upon arrival, your private guide—dedicated exclusively to your group—leads a comprehensive tour of the citadel lasting approximately two hours. You will explore key sectors including temples, agricultural terraces, ceremonial spaces, and the Main Plaza, gaining insight into the architectural brilliance and historical significance of this 15th-century Inca masterpiece. After the guided tour, you will have free time to explore independently, take photographs, or simply absorb the atmosphere of the site.

Later, you descend by bus to Aguas Calientes, where you may enjoy lunch at your leisure. In the afternoon, you board the scenic train to Ollantaytambo, followed by private transport back to your hotel in Cusco, with arrival expected around 8:30 p.m.

Please note: only small daypacks (up to 25 liters) are permitted inside Machu Picchu. Trekking poles and tripods are not allowed. A valid passport is mandatory for entry.

Trip Details

• Meals: Breakfast
• Accommodation: Return to hotel in Cusco
• Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
• Maximum Elevation: 2,430 m (7,972 ft) – Machu Picchu