4-Day Adventure Off the Beaten Path

Looking for a unique and immersive trekking experience to Machu Picchu that combines nature, culture, and history? Our 4-day experience is the perfect mix of wilderness hiking, ancient ruins, and breathtaking views—all away from the crowds.

This alternative Inca Trail route is designed for adventurous travellers seeking a more exclusive journey through the Andes, and it includes two visits to Machu Picchu, with a guided tour of the archaeological wonder on the final day.

Day 1: Cusco – Soqma – Perolniyoc – Rayan – Kuychicassa Pass

Pick-up from your hotel in Cusco at 5:00 AM.
Drive 1 hour 45 minutes to Soqma (3,205 m/10,512 ft)—our trailhead.
Meet our trekking crew and begin your hike with a 1.5-hour ascent to Perolniyoc Waterfall, followed by a visit to the pre-Inca site of Rayan, perched dramatically above the valley.
Tackle a challenging 3-hour climb to Kuychicassa Pass (4,450 m/14,599 ft), offering panoramic views of snow-capped peaks and traditional Andean farms.
*Overnight camping in the remote mountains under the stars.

Day 2: Kuychicassa – Inti Punku – Choquetacarpo – Ollantaytambo

Start the day with a 1.5-hour hike through rolling terrain, followed by a 2.5-hour descent to Intipunku (Sun Gate), with a stunning view of Mount Veronica and the Sacred Valley.
Descend for one hour to Choquetacarpo (3,600 m / 11,808 ft), where you'll visit an ancient Inca stone quarry used to build Ollantaytambo.
*After lunch, continue for 2 hours to reach our next campsite near Ollantaytambo (2,940 m/9,715 ft).

Day 3: Ollantaytambo – KM 104 – Wiñay Wayna – Sun Gate – Machu Picchu

After breakfast, board the train to KM 104, the starting point for your classic Inca Trail hike to Machu Picchu.
Explore the archaeological site of Chachabamba, then hike uphill for 3 hours to the breathtaking site of Wiñay Wayna, one of the most beautiful and well-preserved Inca ruins.
After lunch, continue along the stone-paved trail to the Sun Gate (Inti Punku) for your first panoramic view of Machu Picchu at sunset.
Descend to Machu Picchu and take a short bus ride to Aguas Calientes, where you’ll have dinner and stay overnight in a hotel.

Day 4: Machu Picchu Guided Tour—Return to Cusco

Start early and catch the sunrise over Machu Picchu with an optional 5:00 AM bus ride.
Enjoy a comprehensive 3-hour guided tour of the Machu Picchu citadel, learning about its fascinating history, architecture, and sacred sites.
*After your visit, take the train back to Cusco, marking the end of your unforgettable Andean adventure.

Contact us before booking this trip to check availability; this trip includes the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, and the permits are very limited. Let us guide you through one of the most magical treks in the world!