We have an early pickup and a busy day today, so meet your guide in your hotel lobby at 4am. It won’t take long before we’re flying into the valley on our way to Ollantaytambo train station, arriving with plenty of time to grab a quick breakfast and cup of coffee (not included).

We catch the 6:10am train to KM104. Upon arrival at the trail head, we take a moment to check in for the hike (passports are essential for this process) and prepare for the day ahead, apply sunscreen, insect repellent and pack away our box lunches.

The first hour and a half of the hike is a gentle upward climb. Along the way, we will stop at several viewpoints where you have an expansive view of the Urubamba River and the surrounding valley. It starts out impressive, and just gets more and more beautiful the steeper we climb.

We also pass through several microclimates, including cloud forest, so be prepared for damp weather and even rain at any time of the year. The next hour and a half are a slightly steeper uphill with a beautiful waterfall as your reward.

Once at the waterfall, we have just one section of the hike remaining. After we cross over the bridge, we start a steep incline to the spectacular Wiñay Wayna! (2,600m/8,500ft above sea level).

From this vantage point in the ruins, the views of the valley are stunning. We will explore this well preserved site (only rediscovered in 1942) with our guide sharing plenty of information about the space.

We stop at a covered shelter at the Wiñay Wayna campground for our box lunch. This is the point were the Short Inca Trail and the Classic Inca Trail intersect.

Take advantage of the opportunity to use the restroom and enjoy the incredible flora and fauna of this subtropical microclimate that’s close to the jungle. Let us know of any food allergies or dietary restrictions at booking.

After lunch, you have an hour long walk that rolls gently up and down. Just before reaching the Sun Gate, we will climb a steep set of steps known as the Gringo Killer steps. Passing through the Sun Gate you will have your first jaw dropping view of the great Machu Picchu.

So, take some time to savor the moment be sure to take plenty of photos. The last hour down from the Sun Gate offers many opportunities to take more photos of Machu Picchu from this unique vantage point.

There are a couple more important Inca sites between the Sun Gate and Machu Picchu, so make sure to go slowly. Enjoy your time walking in the footsteps of the Inca on the Inca Trail and ask your guide all the questions you can think of about these historical places on the last stretch of your hike to Machu Picchu.

Once you reach Machu Picchu, you will have even more time to take photos from the viewing platform above the site. Today we will visit the Guard House, where you can take the famous postcard pictures of Machu Picchu.

We will arrive at the citadel in the afternoon, just as the archeological area starts to empty of tourists. This gives you a great opportunity to take beautiful photos in the afternoon light as the crowds are dispersing.

Take your time soaking it all in. After all, you’ll never get another first glance of Machu Picchu again. As dusk begins to bite, we make our way down the mountain (via bus) to the town of Aguas Calientes, which sits nestled below.

Once you are checked into your hotel, we meet for a celebratory dinner over a job well done. You then have some free time to spend as you wish, whether it’s exploring the town or heading off for an early night.

• Meals included: Box lunch and dinner in Aguas Calientes
• Accommodation: 3* Ferre Hotel Machu Picchu
• Difficulty: Moderate.

You will leave an overnight bag at the Ollantaytambo train station to be sent by train directly to Aguas Calientes.