Inca Villages Trail to Machu Picchu

Experience an interactive journey from the past to the present of Inca culture with the locals at Chillipahua Village. Immerse yourself in their daily life, witness their colorful culture and learn about their traditional home remedies. Indulge in a traditional Andean meal and make new friends as you listen to their language and see the world through their eyes. This service project will leave you with a deeper appreciation for the history and traditions of the Inca people.

Overnight: camping

Following a satisfying breakfast, you will embark on a horseback riding adventure. Your journey will take you through picturesque potato fields, Inca aqueducts and native chachacomo trees. The landscape is characterized by sprawling pastures and expansive fields that cling to the steep slopes and crimson-colored mountains. 

Along the way, you will come across indigenous Peruvian villages that still uphold the ancient traditions of the Inca people in regards to agriculture, religion, music, language, culture and more. As you ascend to the Accoccasa Pass, which stands at an elevation of 4,425 meters above sea level, you will be treated to a stunning panoramic view of the snow-capped peaks. The frigid Andean air will envelop you, providing an unforgettable experience. You will then make your way along the flat trail that is utilized by indigenous pastures before descending into the Qenqo Mayu valley for a delectable organic lunch. Finally, you will reach your campsite in the spacious Lake Ancascocha area, situated at an altitude of 4,150 meters above sea level and facing the glaciers of the Cordillera Huayanay.

Riding: 5 hours

Overnight: camping

Low altitude: 3,750 meters

High altitude: 4,625 meters

Campsite altitude: 4,150 meters

After enjoying a satisfying breakfast, you will embark on a horseback riding adventure that will take you to Machu Picchu. Your journey will lead you to the head of Chancachuco valley, where you will witness the impressive Inca aqueduct carved into the cliffs that carries water from Chancachuco valley to the Sacred Valley of the Incas, miles away. As you continue your ride, you will reach Rainbow Pass, which is situated at an altitude of 4,340 meters above sea level. From this pass, you will descend along a hidden valley and narrow trail, hiking for approximately 45 minutes until you reach Intiwatana, the sun gate. This temple is located at the highest point in the area and was significant to the Incas for astronomical observations and planning the agricultural year. From there, you will have an awe-inspiring view of Nevado Veronica, which stands at 5,682 meters above sea level. You will enjoy the sunset and the stunning view of the Urubamba River.

Continuing on your hike, you will arrive at Cachiccata, a large terrace located at the edge of a massive quarry with the same name. This was once an Inca city and was inhabited by hundreds of architects and workers of the empire. The buildings were used for administration, housing, terraces and burial chambers. Irrigation canals can also be found in Cachiccata, and the streets were meticulously planned.

Note: There is another option stay one night in Ollantaytambo and the next day start the Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu.

Riding: 5 hours

Overnight: hotel

Low altitude: 2040 meters

High altitude: 3940 meters

Campsite altitude: 3525 meters

To witness the sunrise at Machu Picchu, you will wake up early in the morning, have breakfast and take a bus to the Inca ruins. There, you will embark on a guided tour that will last for approximately two to three hours, followed by the option to climb Huayna Picchu. Upon concluding your visit, you will return to Aguas Calientes where you can relish amenities such as lunch. Later in the afternoon, you will board the Perú Rail - Expedition train to Cusco. Upon arrival in Cusco, your transfer will be waiting to transport you via private van to your hotel, signifying the conclusion of your adventure.