Day 1 of the Inca Trail is an exciting and relatively gentle introduction to the iconic trek. The journey begins early in the morning, as travelers are picked up from their accommodations in Cusco or the Sacred Valley and driven to the trailhead at Km 82, near the town of Ollantaytambo. The first day involves a moderate hike through scenic landscapes, including lush valleys, small villages. Along the way, hikers encounter their first Inca ruins, such as Llactapata, an archaeological site that served as an administrative and agricultural center. This is a great opportunity to learn about Inca history and culture from the guide. The day’s hike typically lasts around 6-7 hours, covering a distance of approximately 12 kilometers (7.5 miles). The first campsite is usually located near the village of Wayllabamba, at an elevation of about 3,000 meters (9,840 feet). Here, hikers can rest, enjoy a hearty meal prepared by the trekking team, and bond with fellow travelers under the starry Andean sky.
After passing through the checkpoint and registering with official authorities, the trek officially begins. The trail meanders through the Sacred Valley, following the course of the Urubamba River, with breathtaking views of snow-capped peaks like Veronica Mountain (Wakaywillka) in the distance and vibrant flora. This day is designed to help hikers acclimate to the altitude and terrain. The first day is considered the easiest of the four-day hike, designed to help hikers acclimate to the altitude and warm up their legs for the challenges ahead. The terrain on Day 1 is a mix of flat paths and gentle ascents, passing through lush green valleys, small Andean villages, and agricultural terraces that showcase the ingenuity of Inca engineering.
On the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu on the first day, you will observe a wide variety of plants cultivated by the Incas. Corn was one of the most important crops for the Incas. In the Sacred Valley, a unique variety known as giant corn of Cusco is grown, with large kernels. This corn is used in traditional dishes such as chicha (a fermented drink) and mote (cooked corn). The Incas cultivated more than 3,000 varieties of potatoes in the Andes, many of which are still grown in the Sacred Valley. You will also see many Tara trees. This Andean tree produces pods that are used to extract tannins, useful in the textile and pharmaceutical industries. The Incas also used it for medicinal purposes. The Inca Trail is home to a variety of herbs such as muña (Minthostachys mollis), used to relieve digestive problems. The Inca Trail is known for its floral beauty, with species such as the cantuta (Peru’s national flower) and the retama flower, which adorn the landscape and have symbolic meaning in Andean culture.
The first day will be a 12-kilometer trek between the towns of Piskacucho and Huayallabamba. All hikers arrive early in the morning by bus from Cusco, where they are picked up at 4:00 a.m. After stopping in Ollantaytambo for breakfast, they will arrive at the community of Piskacucho, better known as KM 82, where they will disembark at the bus terminal surrounded by spectacular mountain scenery and the sound of birds.
Here, the guide will introduce you to your porters and the entire team, who will be responsible for assisting you on the four-day expedition along the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu. The trek begins at 2,700 meters above sea level. Tourists should pack all their luggage in duffel bags and carry only the essentials in their medium-sized backpacks, such as water, cookies, fruit, a jacket, etc. Once everyone is ready, the guide will head to the checkpoint where park rangers check each visitor’s passport and Inca Trail permit.
Then, you will descend to the bridge over the Vilcanota River, where the legendary Inca Trail to Machu Picchu officially begins (9:00 am). The first three hours will be spent walking along a flat path that runs alongside the Vilcanota River, surrounded by trees and bushes. From time to time, the guide will pause to explain the geography, flora, and fauna of the valley floor. You will also be able to visit the homes of local residents, most of whom still speak the Quechua language inherited from the Incas.
Around noon, you will arrive at the first archaeological site, called Patallaqta. Here, tourists will take a long break to take photos and learn about the history of these archaeological remains. Then, very close by, is the Tarayoc site, where you will stop for lunch. The Inca Trail cooks are, in fact, some of the best in Peru, highly skilled in preparing typical Peruvian dishes. Continuing with the last part of the day, we ascend to the community of Huayllabamba, where we spend the first night in tents. The altitude here is 3,540 m (11,540 ft). At night, it’s a bit chilly; in June, the winter season, temperatures can reach -5 °C (-4 °F).
The Incas built magnificent architectural wonders throughout the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu. The first site you can see is the ruins of Kanabamba. This site is located on the right bank of the Vilcanota River. After the Incas abandoned it upon the arrival of the Spanish, the settlements were left only to retain the Inca stone houses and granaries. Then, you will visit the Huillcarakay viewpoint, from which you will have an impressive view of the Llaqtapata ruins. This Inca construction is unique in shape and is surrounded by the Kusichaka River. The Inca architects had exquisite designs for their temples, houses, terraces, and canals. Another site you can visit is the ruins of Chalakancha, located in the community of Tarayoq. There you can see an Inca enclosure that was used to control pilgrims to Machu Picchu.
The weather on the Inca Trail during the first day is generally temperate and pleasant for much of the year, thanks to its geographical location in the Andes. The average temperature ranges between 15°C and 20°C during the day, although it can vary significantly between day and night, with temperatures dropping to 5°C or less during the coldest hours. This is due to the altitude of the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, which is between 2,700 and 3,500 meters above sea level.
The best time to visit the Inca Trail is undoubtedly the dry season, which runs from April to October. During this period, the weather is more stable and favorable for outdoor activities, exploring archaeological sites, and enjoying the stunning Andean landscapes. The days are generally sunny, with daytime temperatures ranging between 18°C and 22°C, ideal for hiking the ancient Inca trails. The nights, although cool, are rarely extremely cold, allowing for a comfortable rest after a day of exploring.
Furthermore, during the dry season, the skies are often clear, offering spectacular views of the snow-capped mountains and verdant valleys. This is especially important if you plan to visit iconic sites like Machu Picchu, as the lack of rain ensures safer, less slippery trails, as well as a greater likelihood of enjoying clear views of the Inca citadel.
On the other hand, the rainy season, which runs from November to March, although less crowded, presents challenges for travelers. Rainfall is more frequent, especially in the afternoons, which can make access to certain areas difficult or make the trails more dangerous. However, this time has its charm, as the valley fills with intense greenery and the landscapes become even more impressive. In short, if you plan to visit the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, the months from April to October are ideal for enjoying pleasant weather, clear skies, and optimal conditions to immerse yourself in the cultural and natural richness of this magical place.
The first segment of the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu is home to a great diversity of flora species adapted to the specific conditions of the region. This botanical variety not only contributes to the beauty of the landscape but has also been fundamental to the life of local communities since ancient times. Among the most notable species are:
Eucalyptus (Eucalyptus spp.): Although not native to the region, eucalyptus trees were introduced to the Sacred Valley and have adapted very well. These trees are common in the landscape and are used for reforestation and as a source of wood.
Cherimoya (Annona cherimola): This fruit tree, native to the Andes, produces a sweet, juicy fruit that is highly prized in the region. Cherimoya grows well in the valley’s temperate climate. Tara (Caesalpinia spinosa): This tree, native to the Andes, is known for its pods, which are used to produce tannins and tara gum. It also has medicinal uses and is an important part of the local ecosystem.
Cacti and Succulents: In the drier, rockier areas of the valley, it is common to find various species of cacti and succulents, which have adapted to survive with little water.
Aromatic and Medicinal Herbs: The Sacred Valley is rich in plants such as muña (Minthostachys mollis), used to relieve digestive problems, and rue (Ruta graveolens), which has medicinal properties. Herbs such as lemon verbena, mint, and huacatay are also found, and are used in traditional cooking.
Wildflowers: During the rainy season, the valley is filled with color thanks to a wide variety of wildflowers, such as Andean orchids, daisies, and other species that grow on the slopes and grasslands.
Chilca (Baccharis spp.): Chilca is a common shrub in the Andes that grows in dry, rocky areas. It is traditionally used to make brooms and also has medicinal properties, such as anti-inflammatory and wound healing.
Tara (Caesalpinia spinosa): Although it can also grow as a tree, tara is often found as a shrub. It is known for its pods, which are used to produce tannins and tara gum, and has applications in the food and pharmaceutical industries.
Retama (Spartium junceum): This shrub, with its striking yellow flowers, is common in the Sacred Valley. Although not native to the region, it has adapted well and is used to control soil erosion and as an ornamental plant.
Molle (Schinus molle): Although it can grow as a tree, molle is also found as a shrub. It is known for its small pink berries, which are used to make chicha (a fermented beverage) and as a condiment. It also has medicinal properties and is used to treat wounds and pain.
Sage (Salvia spp.): Several species of sage grow in the Sacred Valley. This aromatic shrub is used in traditional medicine to treat respiratory and digestive problems, and is also used in rituals and ceremonies.
Cantuta (Cantua buxifolia): Known as the “national flower of Peru,” the cantuta is a shrub that produces tubular flowers in vibrant colors, including red, yellow, and pink. It is an emblematic plant of the Andes and has deep cultural significance, associated with Inca rituals and ceremonies.
Native trees: In the higher, forested areas, you can find species such as alder (Alnus acuminata) and queñua (Polylepis spp.), a hardy tree that grows at high altitudes and is vital to the conservation of the Andean ecosystem.
Chachacomo (Escallonia resinosa): This Andean shrub is common in the valley’s high altitudes. It is traditionally used for firewood and also has medicinal properties, such as alleviating altitude sickness (soroche).
These shrubs are not only an integral part of the Sacred Valley landscape but also reflect the cultural and botanical richness of the region, being used by local communities for medicinal, ritual, and practical purposes.
The Inca Trail is one of the most famous trekking routes in the world. During the first day of the hike, which generally begins at km 82 (Piscacucho) and ends at the Huayllabamba campsite, you can observe a variety of birds in different habitats, such as forests, riverbanks, and agricultural areas. Here are some of the birds you might see during the first day of the Inca Trail:
These are just some of the birds you might encounter during the first day of the Inca Trail. The presence of these birds can vary depending on the time of year and the availability of flowers, which are their main food source. To observe them, it is advisable to visit areas with abundant vegetation and flowers, preferably in the early morning hours when they are most active. Bringing binoculars and a bird guide can be very helpful in identifying the species you encounter during your hike
