Peru: Classic Inca Trail Day 4 – The Final Push to Machu Picchu
Introduction
Despite enduring a night of pouring rain, Day 4 dawned with renewed anticipation. After trekking 26 miles (42 kilometers) through steep ascents, misty valleys, and ancient ruins, we were on the final stretch toward Machu Picchu. Though tired, the excitement of reaching the Lost City gave us new energy. This was the moment we had worked for—where history, breathtaking landscapes, and the fulfillment of a dream would converge.
Our group—myself, Anna, our guide Nick, and Chico, the loyal stray who had joined us on Day 2—prepared for the final push with a sense of awe. Chico's fate remained uncertain as we approached the misty mountains, ready to step through the Sun Gate and witness Machu Picchu in all its glory.
If you missed earlier parts of this journey, catch up here:
Read on as we step through the Sun Gate, experience the awe of Machu Picchu, and stay tuned to discover Chico’s fate in a future post.
Morning After the Storm
Day 4 of the Inca Trail began with a mix of excitement and fatigue. After a relentless downpour the night before, everything was soaked—boots, gear, and even our spirits felt a bit dampened. Chico, our loyal stray companion, woke up cold and drenched, having refused to take shelter in the side section of our tent the night before. Despite our efforts to coax him inside, he seemed too afraid of enclosed spaces. We did our best to dry him off, and soon enough, his tail was wagging again, ready for the day’s adventure.
After a quick breakfast, we said our goodbyes to part of the porter team, who were heading directly to the Belmond Sanctuary Lodge at Machu Picchu’s gate with our duffels. Despite the soggy conditions, we laced up our wet boots, knowing the 6.2-mile (10 km) trek to Machu Picchu would test both our physical and emotional limits.
The rain had done little to dampen our excitement—or our camera gear, thankfully protected in waterproof bags. The mist that clung to the mountains added a surreal beauty to the trail ahead, hinting at the awe-inspiring views we were about to capture.
"Morning Mist Over the Andes" The mist blanketed the Andes as we began our final descent toward Machu Picchu. Shot with the Canon EOS 6D Mark II+EF 16-35mm f/4L IS USM
Wiñay Wayna: Ruins Shrouded in Mist
The first significant stop of the day was Wiñay Wayna, a set of ancient Inca ruins cascading down the mountain slopes. As we descended from the heights of Phuyupatamarca, the cloud forest wrapped itself around us, hiding most of the views in mist. Wiñay Wayna emerged through the fog like a ghostly memory, its terraced slopes barely visible. It was a quiet, reflective stop. The ruins, though partially hidden, carried an eerie beauty that felt timeless, making us pause to appreciate the history that surrounded us.
Though I didn't capture many photos here due to the thick mist, the atmosphere was unforgettable. The air was still, and there was a calmness to the ruins as they stood silently, watching over the valley below.
Intipata: Breathtaking Beauty Unveiled
As the mist began to lift, we reached the terraced ruins of Intipata. The clouds parted, revealing one of the most breathtaking views of the entire trek. The vibrant green terraces, clinging to the steep mountainside, unfolded before us in all their glory. It was a photographer's dream—crisp, clear skies contrasted sharply with the lush greenery below, making this the perfect place to pause and soak it all in.
I spent longer than expected at Intipata, capturing every angle of the terraced fields and the sweeping valleys beneath them. The landscape here was nothing short of spectacular, and it felt like a reward for all the physical challenges we’d faced in the days before.
“Stunning Views of Intipata Terraces”
Encounter the breathtaking Intipata Terraces on the Classic Inca Trail, where ancient ruins reveal the stunning ingenuity of the Inca civilization. A must-see for any photography enthusiast!
“Elevated Views of the Intipata Terraces”
Ingeniously built at remarkable heights along the Classic Inca Trail, offering stunning views.
The Long Descent
From Intipata, the trail descended sharply, guiding us through a seemingly endless series of stone steps. This long, grueling descent tested our stamina and endurance, with each narrow, steep step cutting through the dense cloud forest. As we moved closer to Machu Picchu, our anticipation grew stronger. Chico bounded ahead, his energy mirroring our determination as we pressed on. I captured a video of this descent, documenting both the beauty and challenges of this final stretch. Each turn unveiled another dramatic view, and despite the tough terrain, the excitement propelled us forward. Stay tuned for Chico's story in an upcoming article, where I’ll share more about our adventures together.
Relive the long descent of steps on Day 4 of the Classic Inca Trail, where ancient stone paths wind through lush landscapes, bringing you closer to Machu Picchu. Video courtesy of Anna Sommer.
The Final Push to the Sun Gate
After hours of hiking, we finally approached the Sun Gate (Inti Punku), the symbolic entrance to Machu Picchu. The excitement was palpable, especially for me, as my group went ahead to capture my arrival. They wanted to ensure I had a moment of my own, climbing those last stairs to see the Lost City of the Incas for the first time. With each step, my heart raced, not only from the physical effort but from the anticipation of what lay ahead. The sense of history and achievement deepened with each footfall.
"Ascending to the Sun Gate: A Journey to Machu Picchu". The article's author climbs the final steps to the Sun Gate, catching the first glimpse of Machu Picchu after days on the Classic Inca Trail. Image courtesy of Anna Sommer. Shot with a Canon EOS 5D Mark IV + EF 24-70mm f/2.8L II USM
When I finally stepped through the gate and saw Machu Picchu, tears flowed freely. It was overwhelming—there, before me, was the sacred city that had been the destination of this incredible journey. The golden light bathed the ruins, and mist rose around the ancient stones like a dream. I stood there in awe, grateful for the journey that had led me to this moment.
"First Glimpse of Machu Picchu from the Sun Gate: A Rewarding View"
The iconic view of Machu Picchu from the Sun Gate, a breathtaking reward after days of trekking the Classic Inca Trail. This moment marks the first sighting of the Lost City of the Incas, nestled amidst misty mountains and ancient ruins. Image captured with Canon EOS 6D Mark II+EF 16-35mm f/4L IS USM
After we took a few celebratory photos, we made our way down the trail into the citadel itself, standing there in complete awe. Then it was on to the Sanctuary Lodge for a well-deserved shower and dinner, filled with excitement for tomorrow's exploration.
"From the Sun Gate to Machu Picchu: A visual journey through the citadel after completing the Classic Inca Trail."
"My Own Memorable Shot of Machu Picchu". Just off the trail, I got to capture my own shot of Machu Picchu. This iconic view is a profound moment in my journey.
Engagement Question:
Have you ever trekked the Inca Trail or dreamed of visiting Machu Picchu? Share your thoughts, experiences, or any questions you have in the comments below!
Closing Thoughts
Day 4 was the ultimate culmination of our journey on the Inca Trail, filled with emotional highs and physical challenges. Reaching Machu Picchu after days of trekking through rugged terrain, steep ascents, and descending endless stone steps was a deeply personal victory. The moment I stepped through the Sun Gate will remain etched in my memory forever—it was a mix of awe, relief, and pure joy.
Chico's unexpected companionship added a unique layer to our experience, and his determination to follow us mirrored our own resilience throughout the trek. His journey with us and the bond we formed will be further explored in a separate post, where we will share the fate of our loyal stray companion.
Tips for Future Trekkers
Prepare for All Weather: Day 4 showed us just how unpredictable mountain weather can be. Be ready for rain, sun, mist, and everything in between. Waterproof gear is a must.
Soak in the Final Moments: The anticipation of reaching Machu Picchu can make you rush through the final stretch, but take your time. Wiñay Wayna and Intipata are beautiful stops, so don’t miss the chance to enjoy them.
Trek at Your Own Pace: The descent from Intipata can be grueling, especially if your legs are already tired from previous days. Take it slow and steady—it's worth it to arrive at the Sun Gate with enough energy to appreciate the moment.
Expect the Unexpected: Whether it’s a stray dog like Chico or a sudden change in weather, embrace the unpredictability of the trail. It’s all part of the adventure!
Travel Tips for Lodging
After completing the trek, a luxurious option is the Belmond Sanctuary Lodge, the only hotel located at the gates of Machu Picchu. This splurge offers stunning views and convenient access for early morning visits to the site the following day. As someone who loves take photos, having quick access to capture the magic of Machu Picchu in the soft morning light was invaluable.
For those seeking more budget-friendly accommodations, the town of Aguas Calientes has various options to cater to different needs and preferences. It's a good idea to read reviews and do some research to find the best fit for your travel style. Alternatively, consider discussing your needs with a trusted travel planner.
Explore More of My Adventures
Keep checking back for more of my adventures! If you enjoyed this post or want to see more images from my journeys, explore these links:
Wildlife Wonders of Africa - Discover the incredible wildlife and landscapes captured during my travels in Africa.
Stunning North America - Explore the breathtaking scenery and natural beauty from my North American adventures.
Antarctica: A Frozen Paradise - Experience the awe-inspiring ice landscapes and wildlife encounters from my journey to Antarctica.
