The second day of the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu is known as the most challenging, but also one of the most rewarding. This section begins at the Wayllabamba campsite and ascends toward the Abra de Warmiwañusca (Dead Woman’s Pass), located at 4,215 meters above sea level, the highest point on the route. After crossing the pass, the descent takes hikers to the Pacaymayo campsite, surrounded by a stunning mountainous environment. This day demands physical endurance, but the sense of accomplishment upon overcoming the pass and the panoramic views of the Andes make every step worthwhile.
At the beginning of the day, the trail passes through humid, dense forests, with lush vegetation, moss-covered trees, and a wide variety of flowers and plants. This environment is fresh and full of life. During the ascent, small streams and gorges are crossed, adding a magical touch to the landscape. As you gain altitude, panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and deep valleys begin to appear. As you ascend, the dense forests give way to lower vegetation, such as shrubs and grasslands typical of the Andean páramos.
It is essential to be well acclimatized to the altitude before beginning the Inca Trail. You should wear warm clothing for the cold on the pass, as well as protection against the rain (the rainy season is from November to March). It is recommended to drink enough water and bring energy snacks to maintain your pace during the ascent. It is important to advance at a steady pace and not rush to avoid altitude sickness. This day covers approximately 12 kilometers.
In this area, the weather can change rapidly, from intense sunshine to fog or light rain. It is possible to spot birds such as the Andean condor, hummingbirds, and other species adapted to the altitude. The highest point of the Inca Trail offers a breathtaking landscape of rocky mountains, open skies, and deep valleys. From here, you can see the snow-capped peaks of the Andes on clear days. Reaching the pass is an exciting moment, as it is the most challenging point of the route. The landscape from here is vast and breathtaking. The temperature at the pass is usually low, especially in the morning or late afternoon. A cold wind is common.
The descent from the pass takes hikers through narrow valleys and gorges, with views of rivers and waterfalls in the distance. As you descend, the vegetation begins to change again, with more shrubs and small trees. The day ends at this camp, surrounded by mountains and offering a peaceful atmosphere. The landscape here is more open, with views of the green slopes and the starry sky at night.
Day 2 begins with a very early morning (6:00 am). Porters move from tent to tent, offering hot coca leaf tea. Visitors must then pack all their belongings into their backpacks and duffel bags. The guide will then call everyone to the dining room, where breakfast will be served. It consists of a buffet of fresh fruits, such as watermelon, grapes, kiwi, papaya, and apple. There is also yogurt, pancakes, bread, jam, butter, oatmeal, and coffee. Once the hikers are ready, the ascent into the Andes begins at 7:00 am. They pass through the first checkpoint, where park rangers check the weight of the porters’ bags and the waste generated. Here, the guide will give an introduction to the landscape and birdwatching. This first section is a gradual ascent through dense, humid forests, where the vegetation is lush and the air is fresh. Small streams and ravines are crossed, adding a magical touch to the landscape. After an hour and a half, hikers arrive at the first resting place, called Ayapata. There, hikers can remove some of their jackets, apply sunscreen, and purchase some hydrating drinks.
Then, we begin the ascent to Llulluchapampa (3,800 m). This section is one of the most iconic, as the Inca Trail still maintains its original design as laid out by the Inca engineers. During the hike, you can observe forests of trees native to the Andes, such as the intimpa, queuña, chachacomo, and elderberry. You can also see ñuqchu plants, whose flowers are a deep red, as well as endemic plants such as bromeliads, mosses, and orchids. After an hour and a half, you reach the second resting point, Llulluchapampa. From this point, you can enjoy spectacular views of the Wayllabamba Valley and the surrounding mountains.
Ascending to the Abra de Warmiwañusca (4,215 m) from Llulluchapampa, the trail becomes steeper and more demanding. The final ascent to the Abra de Warmiwañusca (Dead Woman’s Pass) takes approximately two hours. During the ascent, the landscape transforms into an Andean páramo environment, with low vegetation and breathtaking views of the mountains. Upon reaching the pass, hikers are rewarded with a spectacular panoramic view of the Andes. This is the highest point on the Inca Trail and an exhilarating moment for everyone.
After enjoying the views at the pass, the descent begins to the Pacaymayo camp (3,600 m). This section of the trail is less physically demanding, but requires caution due to the uneven terrain and loose stones. During the descent, the landscape changes again, with narrow valleys, ravines, and small waterfalls. The vegetation becomes denser as we descend. The day ends at the Pacaymayo campsite, located in a valley surrounded by mountains. Here, hikers can rest, enjoy dinner, and prepare for the third day.
Total distance: Approximately 12 kilometers.
Hiking time: Between 6 and 8 hours, depending on the group’s pace and weather conditions.
Elevation gain: Ascent of 1,200 meters (from Wayllabamba to the pass) and descent of 600 meters (to Pacaymayo).
Difficulty:
Physical: This day is the most demanding due to the steep elevation gain and altitude. It is important to walk at a steady pace and stay hydrated.
Mental: The altitude can affect some hikers, so it is crucial to be well acclimatized before beginning the trek.
Recommendations:
Acclimatization: Spend at least 2-3 days in Cusco or the Sacred Valley before beginning the Inca Trail.
Equipment: Bring warm clothing for the cold on the pass, rain protection, and trekking shoes with good grip.
Hydration and snacks: Drink enough water and bring energy snacks to keep you going during the climb.
The weather on this day can vary, but generally follows a pattern typical of the Andean region. The subtropical Andean montane climate is typical of the Andean regions located in subtropical zones, such as Peru. This climate is characterized by its variability due to altitude, topography, and the influence of winds. Rainfall is seasonal and usually concentrated during the rainy season (November to March in the Southern Hemisphere). During the dry season (April to October), precipitation is scarce, but occasional showers may occur.
The amount of rainfall varies by location: on the eastern slopes (toward the Amazon), it is usually wetter, while on the western slopes (toward the coast), it is drier. Relative humidity is moderate to high, especially in areas near cloud forests or tropical rainforests. In higher, drier areas, humidity may be lower. Solar radiation is intense due to the altitude, even on cloudy days. This is due to the reduced atmosphere that filters UV rays. It is common to experience sunny days in the morning and cloudy days in the afternoon. Winds can be strong, especially in high, exposed areas, such as páramos or punas.
Ecosystems such as cloud forests, páramos, and high-altitude grasslands thrive in this climate. The vegetation is diverse, with species adapted to the altitude and humidity, such as orchids, bromeliads, and trees like the alder and the queñual. This area has been inhabited by indigenous communities for thousands of years, who have developed agricultural and cultural practices adapted to the environment, such as the cultivation of potatoes, corn, and quinoa.
Early morning (start of the hike):
Temperatures are usually cool, especially if you set off early. Temperatures can range between 5°C and 10°C (41°F to 50°F). Fog or dew are common in the early hours.
Morning (ascent to Abra Warmiwañusca):
As you continue and the sun rises, the temperature gradually increases. The weather can be cool and windy, especially as you approach the highest point of the Inca Trail, Abra Warmiwañusca (4,215 meters above sea level). Temperatures in this area can range from 10°C to 15°C (50°F to 59°F), but the wind can make it feel colder.
Midday and afternoon (descent to the Pacaymayo Valley):
After crossing the Warmiwañusca Pass, the weather becomes more temperate during the descent. It can be sunny, but you may also encounter light rain or showers, especially during the rainy season (November to March). Temperatures during the descent are generally more pleasant, between 15°C and 20°C (59°F to 68°F).
Late afternoon (arrival at camp):
Upon arrival at the Pacaymayo camp, temperatures drop rapidly after sunset. At night, it can get quite cold, with temperatures dropping to 0°C to 5°C (32°F to 41°F).
Recommendations:
Wear layered clothing to adapt to temperature changes. Wear a raincoat or rain poncho, especially during the rainy season. Don’t forget sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat, as the sun on the mountain can be intense. Bring enough water and energy snacks to stay hydrated and energized during the climb.
The subtropical Andean montane region is home to a great diversity of species, many of them endemic. Some examples include: hummingbirds, Andean toucans, condors, and mountain guans; spectacled bears (Tremarctos ornatus), deer, pumas, and Andean foxes; frogs, lizards, and snakes adapted to the altitude; butterflies, beetles, and other invertebrates that are part of the cloud forest’s biodiversity. Cloud forests and páramos act as “water factories,” capturing and regulating the flow of water to the valleys and the Amazon.
The Hepatic Tanager is a medium-sized songbird belonging to the cardinal family, Cardinalidae. It is known for its striking plumage and is found in the Americas, primarily in subtropical and temperate regions. The male Hepatic Tanager is primarily reddish-orange or brick-red in color, resembling the hue of a liver (hence the name “hepatic,” which refers to the liver). The wings and tail are slightly darker, often with a grayish or brownish tinge. The bill is thick and pale, usually a light gray or yellowish color.
Females are more subdued in color, typically yellowish-olive or grayish-olive with a slightly brighter yellow or orange tinge on the underparts. Like the male, the female has a pale bill. Hepatic Tanagers are found in open woodlands, pine-oak forests, and montane forests. They prefer habitats at mid to high elevations, typically between 1,000 and 3,000 meters (3,300 to 9,800 feet). Hepatic Tanagers are primarily insectivorous, feeding on insects, spiders, and other arthropods. They also eat fruit and berries, especially during the non-breeding season.
The Chestnut-breasted Mountain Finch is a small, striking bird belonging to the tanager family, Thraupidae. It is native to the high-altitude regions of the Andes in South America. The male has a distinctive chestnut-brown breast and flanks, which give the species its name. The head and upperparts are grayish or slate-colored, often with a slight bluish tinge. The throat is white or pale gray, contrasting with the chestnut breast. The wings and tail are darker, with some white or pale edges on the feathers.
Females are similar to males but generally duller, with less vibrant chestnut coloring and more muted gray tones. The Chestnut-breasted Mountain Finch is found in high-altitude grasslands, shrublands, and Polylepis woodlands in the Andes. It typically inhabits elevations between 3,000 and 4,500 meters (9,800 to 14,800 feet). Its range includes parts of Peru and Bolivia, where it is often associated with the unique and fragmented Polylepis forests. The Chestnut-breasted Mountain Finch is primarily granivorous, feeding on seeds and small grains. It may also consume small insects and other arthropods, especially during the breeding season.
Is a striking songbird belonging to the cardinal family. It is known for its bold plumage and melodious song. The male Black-backed Grosbeak has a black back, head, and throat, which contrast sharply with its bright yellow underparts. The wings are black with prominent white patches, and the tail is black with white edges. The bill is large, conical, and pale gray or ivory-colored, typical of grosbeaks.
Females are more subdued in color, with olive-brown upperparts and yellowish underparts. They lack the bold black-and-white contrast of the males but still have the distinctive grosbeak bill. The Black-backed Grosbeak inhabits open woodlands, forest edges, shrublands, and gardens. It is found at elevations ranging from 1,000 to 3,000 meters (3,300 to 9,800 feet). The Black-backed Grosbeak is omnivorous, feeding on a variety of seeds, fruits, and insects. It uses its large, powerful bill to crack open seeds and nuts. It forages in trees and shrubs, often hopping along branches or gleaning food from foliage.
Is a small, distinctive bird belonging to the ovenbird family, Furnariidae. It is native to the Andean regions of South America and is known for its unique appearance and behavior. The most striking feature of the Creamy-crested Spinetail is its creamy-white crest, which contrasts sharply with the rest of its plumage. The upperparts are primarily brown or olive-brown, with a slightly rufous tinge on the wings and tail. The underparts are pale gray or buff-colored, with a slightly streaked appearance on the throat and breast. The bill is short, pointed, and slightly curved, typical of spinetails.
The tail is long and often held upright, with stiff, pointed feathers that help the bird brace itself against tree trunks and branches. The Creamy-crested Spinetail inhabits montane forests, cloud forests, and shrublands in the Andes. It is typically found at elevations between 2,000 and 3,500 meters (6,500 to 11,500 feet). The Creamy-crested Spinetail is primarily insectivorous, feeding on insects, spiders, and other small arthropods. It forages by gleaning prey from foliage, bark, and branches, often in dense vegetation.
Is a small, unique bird belonging to the tanager family, Thraupidae. It is known for its specialized feeding behavior and striking appearance. The male Moustached Flowerpiercer has a glossy blue-black plumage with a distinctive white mustache-like stripe on each side of its face, which gives the species its name. The underparts are generally darker, with a slight bluish sheen. The bill is short, pointed, and slightly upturned, with a hooked tip adapted for its unique feeding behavior. Females are more subdued in color, with olive-brown upperparts and pale gray or buff underparts. They lack the bold mustache stripe of the males but may have faint streaks on the face.
The Moustached Flowerpiercer inhabits montane forests, cloud forests, and shrublands in the Andes. It is typically found at elevations between 2,000 and 3,500 meters (6,500 to 11,500 feet). This bird is nectarivorous, feeding primarily on nectar from flowers. It uses its specialized bill to pierce the base of flowers, accessing nectar without pollinating the plant (a behavior known as nectar robbing). It also consumes small insects and spiders, particularly during the breeding season. It forages actively in flowering shrubs and trees, often hanging upside down to reach flowers. It may join mixed-species flocks, particularly during the non-breeding season. The song of the Moustached Flowerpiercer is a series of high-pitched, rapid trills and whistles.
The male Masked Flowerpiercer has a deep blue plumage with a black mask covering its face, which gives the species its name. The wings and tail are slightly darker, often with a glossy sheen. The bill is short, pointed, and slightly upturned, with a hooked tip adapted for its unique feeding behavior. Females are more subdued in color, with olive-green upperparts and pale gray or buff underparts. They lack the bold black mask of the males but may have faint streaks on the face. The Masked Flowerpiercer inhabits montane forests, cloud forests, and shrublands in the Andes. It is typically found at elevations between 2,000 and 3,500 meters (6,500 to 11,500 feet). The Masked Flowerpiercer is nectarivorous, feeding primarily on nectar from flowers. It uses its specialized bill to pierce the base of flowers, accessing nectar without pollinating the plant (a behavior known as nectar robbing). It forages actively in flowering shrubs and trees, often hanging upside down to reach flowers. It may join mixed-species flocks, particularly during the non-breeding season.
The male Black-throated Flowerpiercer has a glossy blue-black plumage with a black throat and upper breast, which gives the species its name. The underparts are chestnut-brown, contrasting sharply with the darker upperparts. The bill is short, pointed, and slightly upturned, with a hooked tip adapted for its unique feeding behavior. Females are more subdued in color, with olive-brown upperparts and pale gray or buff underparts. They lack the bold black throat and chestnut underparts of the males but may have faint streaks on the face.
The Black-throated Flowerpiercer inhabits montane forests, cloud forests, and shrublands in the Andes. It is typically found at elevations between 2,000 and 3,500 meters (6,500 to 11,500 feet). The Black-throated Flowerpiercer is nectarivorous, feeding primarily on nectar from flowers. It uses its specialized bill to pierce the base of flowers, accessing nectar without pollinating the plant (a behavior known as nectar robbing). It also consumes small insects and spiders, particularly during the breeding season.
Is a stunning hummingbird species endemic to the Andes of Peru. Known for its iridescent plumage and distinctive white tufts, it is a favorite among birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts. The White-tufted Sunbeam has iridescent golden-green or coppery upperparts, which shimmer in the sunlight. The underparts are rufous or chestnut-colored, with a slightly lighter tone on the belly. The most distinctive feature is the white tufts of feathers on the sides of its breast, which give the species its name. The tail is forked and primarily rufous, with some iridescent green or bronze highlights.
The bill is straight and black, typical of hummingbirds, and adapted for feeding on nectar. The White-tufted Sunbeam is found in high-altitude grasslands, shrublands, and Polylepis woodlands in the Andes. It typically inhabits elevations between 3,000 and 4,500 meters (9,800 to 14,800 feet). Its range is restricted to central and southern Peru, particularly in the Cusco and Apurímac regions.
The White-tufted Sunbeam is nectarivorous, feeding primarily on nectar from flowering plants, particularly those in the Ericaceae and Asteraceae families. It also consumes small insects and spiders, which provide essential protein. It forages actively, hovering in front of flowers to extract nectar with its long bill and tongue. It may defend feeding territories, particularly in areas with abundant flowers. They are often seen near flowering shrubs and trees, particularly in areas with Polylepis forests.
Is a dazzling hummingbird species found in the high-altitude regions of the Andes. Known for its iridescent plumage and adaptability to harsh environments, it is a favorite among birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts. The Shining Sunbeam has iridescent golden-green or coppery upperparts, which shimmer in the sunlight, giving it a “shining” appearance. The underparts are rufous or chestnut-colored, with a slightly lighter tone on the belly. The throat and chest often have a glittering green or golden sheen. The tail is forked and primarily rufous, with some iridescent green or bronze highlights. The bill is straight and black, typical of hummingbirds, and adapted for feeding on nectar.
The Shining Sunbeam is found in high-altitude grasslands, shrublands, Polylepis woodlands, and paramo ecosystems in the Andes. It typically inhabits elevations between 2,500 and 4,500 meters (8,200 to 14,800 feet). The Shining Sunbeam is nectarivorous, feeding primarily on nectar from flowering plants, particularly those in the Ericaceae and Asteraceae families. It also consumes small insects and spiders, which provide essential protein.
It forages actively, hovering in front of flowers to extract nectar with its long bill and tongue. It may defend feeding territories, particularly in areas with abundant flowers. Its iridescent plumage is not due to pigments but to the microscopic structure of the feathers, which refracts light. The species is often associated with Polylepis forests, which are among the highest-elevation forests in the world and are critically endangered.
Is a small, elusive bird endemic to the Cusco Region in the eastern Andes of Peru. Striking black-and-white pattern with a white supercilium (eyebrow) and black lateral crown stripes. The bill is Short, conical, and sturdy, adapted for crushing seeds and insects. Restricted to the Cusco Region, including the Vilcabamba Mountains and the Apurímac Valley. It is found at 2,000–3,300 meters above sea level. The Brush -Finch is located at dense undergrowth in subtropical or tropical moist montane forests, forest edges, and secondary growth. This bird is omnivorous; feeds on seeds, insects, and fruits. Usually Active in pairs or small groups, often skulking in thick vegetation.
Is one of the most extraordinary and unique hummingbirds in the world, renowned for its exceptionally long bill. Approximately 13–14 cm in body length, with a bill that can add an additional 10–12 cm (making it longer than its body!). Its plumage mostly green with a coppery-bronze sheen. The underpart is pale green to grayish. Its throat is iridescent green or bluish-green. The tail is long and forked, with white tips on the outer feathers.
The bill is extremely long, straight, and slender, adapted for feeding on long-tubed flowers. The hummingbird is found in the Andes Mountains of South America.Typically found at 2,000–3,500 meters above sea level. The habitat is located at humid montane forests, cloud forests, and edges of forests, often near flowering plants.
Primarily feeds on nectar from long-tubed flowers, such as Passiflora mixta and Datura. Its bill is so long that it must perch to feed, as it cannot reach the nectar while hovering. Also consumes small insects and spiders for protein. Its Agile and fast, like other hummingbirds, but its long bill makes it slightly less maneuverable.
Is a stunning and large hummingbird species found in the high Andes of South America. Known for its striking plumage and impressive size, it is a favorite among birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts. Is one of the largest hummingbirds, measuring 15–18 cm in length. It has a plumage of shimmering turquoise or sapphire-blue. Its underparts are dark greenish-blue. It wings are dark blue with a metallic sheen. The tail is long and forked, with blue-black feathers. The bill is Straight and medium-length, adapted for feeding on a variety of flowers. The sapphire-blue wings (especially in males) are a key identifying characteristic.
Is found in the Andes Mountains of Peru, typically found at 2,500–4,000 meters above sea level. It lives at humid montane forests, cloud forests, and páramo (high-altitude grasslands). Prefers areas with abundant flowering plants. Primarily feeds on nectar from a variety of flowers, including those of the Puya and Bomarea genera. Also consumes small insects and spiders for protein.
Commonly known as the spectacled bear or Andean bear, this is a species of ursid native to South America. It is the only bear in this region and the only living member of the genus Tremarctos. Its habitat is in the Andes mountain range, from Venezuela to Bolivia, passing through Colombia, Ecuador, and Peru. It prefers cloud forests and paramos, at altitudes ranging from 200 to 4,750 meters above sea level. It is characterized by its black or dark brown fur, with light facial markings (white or beige) surrounding the eyes, giving it the name “spectacled bear.” These markings are unique to each individual.
It is a medium-sized bear. Males can weigh between 100 and 200 kg, while females are smaller, weighing 35 to 82 kg. It is primarily herbivorous, although its diet is omnivorous. It feeds on fruits, bromeliads, cacti, berries, honey, insects, and occasionally small mammals. It is a solitary animal with diurnal habits. It is an adept climber and builds platforms in trees to rest or feed. It is an important symbol in several indigenous cultures of the Andes and appears in local mythologies and traditions. The spectacled bear is an emblematic species of Andean biodiversity, and its conservation is crucial to maintaining the ecological balance in its habitat.
Known in Peru as the gray deer or southern white-tailed deer, this is a species of deer widely distributed in the Americas. In Peru, this animal inhabits diverse regions, adapting to a variety of ecosystems. It is especially found in dry forests, scrublands, Yungas, and areas near the Andes. It is common in protected areas such as the Machu Picchu Historic Sanctuary. It has short, dense, grayish-brown or reddish fur, with a white belly and underside of the tail. Males have branched antlers that are shed and replaced each year.
It is a medium-sized deer. Males can weigh between 50 and 120 kg, while females are smaller, weighing 30 to 80 kg. It is herbivorous and feeds primarily on leaves, shoots, fruits, grasses, and branches. Its diet varies depending on the availability of resources in its habitat. It is a shy and cautious animal, with primarily crepuscular habits (active at dawn and dusk). It is solitary or forms small family groups. It plays a crucial role in ecosystems as a seed disperser and prey for predators such as pumas and jaguars.
