Wake up time is at 3:30 AM. We’ll eat breakfast at 4:00 AM and wait at the checkpoint to be one of the first to start trekking when they open the gates at 5:30 AM. This is the final part of the journey, arrive by 6:00am to the Sun Gate, also known as Inti Punku. At that point, the majestic Machu Picchu Citadel will be spread out in front with its mystic beauty – an incredible sight for all to see. At the Sun Gate, watch sunlight spreading down over the citadel like melting gold, as the sun rises from behind. Finally, walk downhill towards Machu Picchu Citadel (2,400m/7,872 ft.),
After walking about 40 minutes, enter the Citadel of Machu Picchu from the top through the “House of the Guardians”where everybody takes the famous postcard pictures of Machu Picchu. From there, proceed towards the control point, where we register and leave any large backpacks or walking poles. You are only allowed to take small bags into Machu Picchu, such as camera bags. Walking poles are not allowed because they can damage the stones.
The guide will give a full guide tour and educate you about the history of the ruins which takes about two hours. See most of the important parts of Machu Picchu and learn about how Machu Picchu is divided into three sectors: agricultural, residential and religious.
After the tour, enjoy sometime exploring the ruins and taking photos. For those who have booked in advance for the extra hike up Huayna Picchu, check your ticket for the entrance time, the hike up will be on your own. When you have had your fill of the exceptional views of Machu Picchu, you will take the bus back down to Aguas Calientes for lunch (not included). Depending on your train departure time, you may also have time for some shopping, sightseeing or a visit to the museum or hot springs.
The Expedition Train at 2:55 or 3:20pm will take you back to Ollantaytambo, following the spectacular Urubamba River. Close to Aguas Calientes, the canyon is narrow and the river has many beautiful sections of whitewater. See Wiñay Wayna from the train if you look up high on the steep canyon wall! Back at Ollantaytambo, the driver will meet you at the exit from the train station and drive back to the hotel in Cusco in our private vehicle. Expect to arrive at your hotel by 7:00pm.
Meals included: Breakfast
Distance: 6kms/3.7mls
Difficulty: Easy
*** The Huayna Picchu Mountain Hike depends on availability and let us know about it at booking time.
***IMPORTANT:
- On the 4 day Inca Trail, we will be doing the Circuit #1 & #3 and there is no way to do another circuit unless you buy an additional entrance to Machu Picchu (US$55 – Circuit #2) – These regulations are for all the companies!
- Upgrade to the Vistadome Train for the same times, 2:55 or 3:20, 4:22, or 4:43pm. The cost is $67 USD.
- Early trains can be organized by request and it has to be done at booking time.