The Inca Trail to Machu Picchu covers approximately 42 km over four days and passes through more than a dozen archaeological sites before reaching the citadel. In this guide, you will discover the main archaeological sites along the Inca Trail, which day of the trek you visit them, their altitude, and what to look for at each one. If you are still choosing your route, explore the details of the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu with Illa Kuntur Travel. For permits, packing, and physical preparation, check what you need to know before hiking the Inca Trail.
Sites by Day
The order of visits may vary depending on the campsites assigned by your agency. This table shows the most common distribution along the classic four-day route. Altitudes are approximate.
| Site | Day | Approximate altitude |
|---|---|---|
| Patallacta | Day 1 | 2,750 m above sea level |
| Willkaraqay | Day 1 | 2,800 m above sea level |
| Warmiwañusca Pass (highest point) | Day 2 | 4,215 m above sea level |
| Runkurakay | Day 2 or 3 | 3,760 m above sea level |
| Sayacmarca | Day 3 | 3,600 m above sea level |
| Conchamarca | Day 3 | 3,500 m above sea level |
| Phuyupatamarca | Day 3 | 3,650 m above sea level |
| Intipata | Day 3 | 2,750 m above sea level |
| Wiñay Wayna | Day 3 | 2,650 m above sea level |
| Inti Punku | Day 4 | 2,720 m above sea level |
| Machu Picchu | Day 4 | 2,430 m above sea level |
Day 1: Patallacta and Willkaraqay
The hike begins at km 82 in Piscacucho and follows the course of the Urubamba River. The first day is the easiest part of the trek and gives you time to adjust to the group’s pace.
Patallacta, the First Major Complex
Patallacta, also known as Llactapata, is the first large archaeological site you see along the route. Its name translates as “village on the high ground.” It consists of agricultural terraces, dwellings, storage buildings, and enclosures arranged along the hillside near the confluence of the Cusichaca and Urubamba rivers.
Researchers interpret it as a center for agricultural production and supplies for travelers heading toward Machu Picchu. You can see it from a viewpoint along the trail, where your guide usually gives the first historical explanation of the trek.
Do not confuse it with the Llactapata on the Salkantay route, a different archaeological site located across from Machu Picchu.
Willkaraqay, the Outpost on the Hill
Willkaraqay sits on a hill above Patallacta. From this location, access to the Cusichaca Valley could be monitored. It is a small site that many groups see while passing through.
Day 2: Warmiwañusca Pass and Runkurakay
The second day is the most demanding. You climb from Wayllabamba to Warmiwañusca Pass, at approximately 4,215 m above sea level, the highest point of the Inca Trail. Its name translates as “Dead Woman’s Pass” and refers to the silhouette of the mountain. After crossing the pass, you descend toward the Pacaymayo campsite.
Runkurakay, the Circular Structure
Depending on your agency’s itinerary, you will reach Runkurakay either at the end of the second day or on the morning of the third, while climbing toward the second mountain pass. It is a circular or oval-shaped structure located at approximately 3,760 m above sea level, with rooms arranged around a central courtyard.
Because of its location beside the trail, it is interpreted as a tambo: a resting and control point for chasquis and travelers. From here, you can see the Pacaymayo Valley and part of the route you have already covered.
Day 3: The Section with the Most Archaeological Sites
The third day covers the longest distance, but it also contains the largest concentration of archaeological sites. Much of the trail retains its original stone paving and passes through a tunnel carved into the rock.
Sayacmarca, the Settlement on the Rocky Ridge
Sayacmarca means “inaccessible town.” It is built on a rocky ridge and can only be reached by a narrow stone staircase. Inside, you will find enclosures, narrow passageways, water channels, and a semicircular wall in the upper section.
Its position provided visual control over the Aobamba Valley. Some researchers also attribute ceremonial and astronomical observation functions to the site.
Conchamarca, the Tambo Below Sayacmarca
A few minutes from Sayacmarca, as you begin the descent, you pass Conchamarca. It is a small complex of enclosures and terraces that served as a resting place. Many groups walk through without stopping, so ask your guide to point it out.
Phuyupatamarca and Its Water Fountains
Phuyupatamarca means “town above the clouds.” The name comes from the mist that often covers the site in the mornings. It is located at approximately 3,650 m above sea level and is one of the best-preserved complexes along the route.
Its most notable feature is a series of stone fountains through which water still flows. Because of this hydraulic system, the site is believed to have had a ceremonial function associated with the worship of water. If the sky is clear, you can see the snow-capped Salkantay and Pumasillo mountains from here.
Intipata, the Sun-Facing Terraces
Intipata means “place of the sun.” It is a hillside covered with agricultural terraces overlooking the Urubamba Valley. Its orientation allows it to receive sunlight for much of the day, an important factor for farming at this altitude. It is a good place to rest before the final descent of the day.
Wiñay Wayna, the Most Complete Site Before Machu Picchu
Wiñay Wayna is located just a few minutes from the final campsite, so it is usually visited at the end of the third day at a more relaxed pace. Its sloping terraces, enclosures, and water fountains make it the site that best prepares you for what you will see the following day at Machu Picchu. Learn about its history and different sectors in our guide to Wiñay Wayna.
The Inca Trail to Machu Picchu covers approximately 42 km over four days and passes through more than a dozen archaeological sites before reaching the citadel. In this guide, you will discover the main archaeological sites along the Inca Trail, which day of the trek you visit them, their altitude, and what to look for at each one. If you are still choosing your route, explore the details of the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu with Illa Kuntur Travel. For permits, packing, and physical preparation, check what you need to know before hiking the Inca Trail.
Sites by Day
The order of visits may vary depending on the campsites assigned by your agency. This table shows the most common distribution along the classic four-day route. Altitudes are approximate.
| Site | Day | Approximate altitude |
|---|---|---|
| Patallacta | Day 1 | 2,750 m above sea level |
| Willkaraqay | Day 1 | 2,800 m above sea level |
| Warmiwañusca Pass (highest point) | Day 2 | 4,215 m above sea level |
| Runkurakay | Day 2 or 3 | 3,760 m above sea level |
| Sayacmarca | Day 3 | 3,600 m above sea level |
| Conchamarca | Day 3 | 3,500 m above sea level |
| Phuyupatamarca | Day 3 | 3,650 m above sea level |
| Intipata | Day 3 | 2,750 m above sea level |
| Wiñay Wayna | Day 3 | 2,650 m above sea level |
| Inti Punku | Day 4 | 2,720 m above sea level |
| Machu Picchu | Day 4 | 2,430 m above sea level |
Day 1: Patallacta and Willkaraqay
The hike begins at km 82 in Piscacucho and follows the course of the Urubamba River. The first day is the easiest part of the trek and gives you time to adjust to the group’s pace.
Patallacta, the First Major Complex
Patallacta, also known as Llactapata, is the first large archaeological site you see along the route. Its name translates as “village on the high ground.” It consists of agricultural terraces, dwellings, storage buildings, and enclosures arranged along the hillside near the confluence of the Cusichaca and Urubamba rivers.
Researchers interpret it as a center for agricultural production and supplies for travelers heading toward Machu Picchu. You can see it from a viewpoint along the trail, where your guide usually gives the first historical explanation of the trek.
Do not confuse it with the Llactapata on the Salkantay route, a different archaeological site located across from Machu Picchu.
Willkaraqay, the Outpost on the Hill
Willkaraqay sits on a hill above Patallacta. From this location, access to the Cusichaca Valley could be monitored. It is a small site that many groups see while passing through.
Day 2: Warmiwañusca Pass and Runkurakay
The second day is the most demanding. You climb from Wayllabamba to Warmiwañusca Pass, at approximately 4,215 m above sea level, the highest point of the Inca Trail. Its name translates as “Dead Woman’s Pass” and refers to the silhouette of the mountain. After crossing the pass, you descend toward the Pacaymayo campsite.
Runkurakay, the Circular Structure
Depending on your agency’s itinerary, you will reach Runkurakay either at the end of the second day or on the morning of the third, while climbing toward the second mountain pass. It is a circular or oval-shaped structure located at approximately 3,760 m above sea level, with rooms arranged around a central courtyard.
Because of its location beside the trail, it is interpreted as a tambo: a resting and control point for chasquis and travelers. From here, you can see the Pacaymayo Valley and part of the route you have already covered.
Day 3: The Section with the Most Archaeological Sites
The third day covers the longest distance, but it also contains the largest concentration of archaeological sites. Much of the trail retains its original stone paving and passes through a tunnel carved into the rock.
Sayacmarca, the Settlement on the Rocky Ridge
Sayacmarca means “inaccessible town.” It is built on a rocky ridge and can only be reached by a narrow stone staircase. Inside, you will find enclosures, narrow passageways, water channels, and a semicircular wall in the upper section.
Its position provided visual control over the Aobamba Valley. Some researchers also attribute ceremonial and astronomical observation functions to the site.
Conchamarca, the Tambo Below Sayacmarca
A few minutes from Sayacmarca, as you begin the descent, you pass Conchamarca. It is a small complex of enclosures and terraces that served as a resting place. Many groups walk through without stopping, so ask your guide to point it out.
Phuyupatamarca and Its Water Fountains
Phuyupatamarca means “town above the clouds.” The name comes from the mist that often covers the site in the mornings. It is located at approximately 3,650 m above sea level and is one of the best-preserved complexes along the route.
Its most notable feature is a series of stone fountains through which water still flows. Because of this hydraulic system, the site is believed to have had a ceremonial function associated with the worship of water. If the sky is clear, you can see the snow-capped Salkantay and Pumasillo mountains from here.
Intipata, the Sun-Facing Terraces
Intipata means “place of the sun.” It is a hillside covered with agricultural terraces overlooking the Urubamba Valley. Its orientation allows it to receive sunlight for much of the day, an important factor for farming at this altitude. It is a good place to rest before the final descent of the day.
Wiñay Wayna, the Most Complete Site Before Machu Picchu
Wiñay Wayna is located just a few minutes from the final campsite, so it is usually visited at the end of the third day at a more relaxed pace. Its sloping terraces, enclosures, and water fountains make it the site that best prepares you for what you will see the following day at Machu Picchu. Learn about its history and different sectors in our guide to Wiñay Wayna.
Day 4: Inti Punku and Machu Picchu
The final day begins before sunrise. Groups wait for the Wiñay Wayna checkpoint to open and then hike for about an hour to Inti Punku.
Inti Punku, the Final Checkpoint Before the Citadel
Inti Punku was the main checkpoint for those arriving at Machu Picchu from the south. From here, you get your first view of the citadel. If the weather is favorable, you can watch the sun rise over the mountains; during the rainy season, mist often obscures the view until mid-morning. If you would like to learn more about this site, read our guide to Inti Punku.
Machu Picchu via Circuit 3-B
From Inti Punku, you descend to the Machu Picchu citadel, declared one of the New Seven Wonders of the Modern World in 2007. Since 2026, visitors arriving via the Inca Trail Network enter the citadel through Circuit 3-B, with exclusive spaces reserved through authorized agencies. Check which areas are included in each route in our guide on which Machu Picchu circuit to choose.
The Ceremonial Use of Inca Trail Sites
The Inca Trail to Machu Picchu was not an everyday route. Because of the number of water fountains, ceremonial enclosures, and observation points it connects, researchers interpret it as a pilgrimage route leading to the citadel. Phuyupatamarca and Wiñay Wayna are among the clearest examples of the relationship between water and the sacred in the Inca worldview.
This relationship is still present today. Some groups make an offering to Pachamama before beginning the trek. If you are interested in this aspect of the journey, learn about the offering to Pachamama.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Inca Trail Ruins
How Many Archaeological Sites Are There on the Inca Trail?
On the classic four-day route, you pass more than a dozen archaeological sites in addition to Machu Picchu. The most important are Patallacta, Runkurakay, Sayacmarca, Phuyupatamarca, Intipata, Wiñay Wayna, and Inti Punku.
Can I See These Sites on the 2-Day Inca Trail?
Only some of them. The 2-day Inca Trail begins at km 104 and passes through Wiñay Wayna and Inti Punku before reaching Machu Picchu. Patallacta, Runkurakay, Sayacmarca, and Phuyupatamarca are only visited on the four-day route. Compare both options in Short Inca Trail vs. Classic Inca Trail.
What Is the Highest Archaeological Site on the Inca Trail?
Among the archaeological sites, Runkurakay is the highest, at approximately 3,760 m above sea level. The highest point on the entire route is Warmiwañusca Pass, at approximately 4,215 m above sea level.
Which Are the Best-Preserved Sites on the Inca Trail?
Wiñay Wayna and Phuyupatamarca are among the best-preserved sites, including their water fountains, which are still functioning. Sayacmarca also retains much of its original walls and passageways.
Day 4: Inti Punku and Machu Picchu
The final day begins before sunrise. Groups wait for the Wiñay Wayna checkpoint to open and then hike for about an hour to Inti Punku.
Inti Punku, the Final Checkpoint Before the Citadel
Inti Punku was the main checkpoint for those arriving at Machu Picchu from the south. From here, you get your first view of the citadel. If the weather is favorable, you can watch the sun rise over the mountains; during the rainy season, mist often obscures the view until mid-morning. If you would like to learn more about this site, read our guide to Inti Punku.
Machu Picchu via Circuit 3-B
From Inti Punku, you descend to the Machu Picchu citadel, declared one of the New Seven Wonders of the Modern World in 2007. Since 2026, visitors arriving via the Inca Trail Network enter the citadel through Circuit 3-B, with exclusive spaces reserved through authorized agencies. Check which areas are included in each route in our guide on which Machu Picchu circuit to choose.
The Ceremonial Use of Inca Trail Sites
The Inca Trail to Machu Picchu was not an everyday route. Because of the number of water fountains, ceremonial enclosures, and observation points it connects, researchers interpret it as a pilgrimage route leading to the citadel. Phuyupatamarca and Wiñay Wayna are among the clearest examples of the relationship between water and the sacred in the Inca worldview.
This relationship is still present today. Some groups make an offering to Pachamama before beginning the trek. If you are interested in this aspect of the journey, learn about the offering to Pachamama.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Inca Trail Ruins
How Many Archaeological Sites Are There on the Inca Trail?
On the classic four-day route, you pass more than a dozen archaeological sites in addition to Machu Picchu. The most important are Patallacta, Runkurakay, Sayacmarca, Phuyupatamarca, Intipata, Wiñay Wayna, and Inti Punku.
Can I See These Sites on the 2-Day Inca Trail?
Only some of them. The 2-day Inca Trail begins at km 104 and passes through Wiñay Wayna and Inti Punku before reaching Machu Picchu. Patallacta, Runkurakay, Sayacmarca, and Phuyupatamarca are only visited on the four-day route. Compare both options in Short Inca Trail vs. Classic Inca Trail.
What Is the Highest Archaeological Site on the Inca Trail?
Among the archaeological sites, Runkurakay is the highest, at approximately 3,760 m above sea level. The highest point on the entire route is Warmiwañusca Pass, at approximately 4,215 m above sea level.
Which Are the Best-Preserved Sites on the Inca Trail?
Wiñay Wayna and Phuyupatamarca are among the best-preserved sites, including their water fountains, which are still functioning. Sayacmarca also retains much of its original walls and passageways.
