Leaving Cusco or Ollantaytambo on the early train, we head over the puna (High Andean Savannah) and its rolling hills downhill towards the Urubamba river in the Sacred Valley of the Incas. As the Valley becomes a canyon the cloud forest begins to appear with a vegetation change as we reach the Machu Picchu Sanctuary. Near the hydroelectric project, we cross a hanging bridge at Km. 104. From here we hike up to the Chachabamba site, and after a brief visit begins a four hour ascent to the ruins of Winay Wayna, an important spiritual site. The Inca Trail cuts across the ridge above Machu Picchu to finally reach the door of the sun (INTIPUNKU) from where the trail winds downhill. The classic vista into the lost citadel located right above the Urubamba river will be experienced. Overnight at an hostal in Aguas Calientes.

After an early breakfast visit the citadel and surrounding complexes. Optional hike up to the top of Wayna Picchu. Lunch included. Return by train to Cusco (or the Sacred Valley).