Inca Trail 3-Day Hike

Embark on an enlightening journey through significant sites of the Inca Empire over the course of a 3-day trek along the Inca Trail. Prepare to experience stunning landscapes, ancient ruins, and picturesque lagoons.

3-Day Hike on the Inca Trail

Day 1: Riobamba to Tres Cruces

Your adventure begins at 8 am when we gather at your accommodation in Riobamba for the first leg of our trek on the Inca Trail. This extensive path measures 3,728 miles (6,000 kilometers) across a variety of countries, including Argentina, Bolivia, Chile, Colombia, Peru, and Ecuador.

Our initial hike commences in Achupallas, a quaint village situated at an elevation of 10,826 feet (3,300 meters), where a lovely picnic awaits you. Following lunch, we will embark on a 4-hour hike through lush meadows, ascending until we reach an altitude of 12,959 feet (3,950 meters). Here, we will establish our campsite and enjoy a delightful dinner near Tres Cruces.

Day 2: Achupallas to Patococha

Awake refreshed! We will start our day with a satisfying breakfast before embarking on a 7-hour trek leading us to the Cuchilla de Tres Cruces. This dry region sits at an altitude of 13,123 feet (4,000 meters), offering breathtaking views of the Sansahuín Lagoon. A packed meal will be provided for you to relish at your convenience.

Subsequently, we will descend towards the Culebrillas Lagoon, steeped in the ancient traditions of the Cañari people. Our explorations will then take us to the Paredones de Molleturo, where we can witness the vestiges of three Inca temples and comprehend their ecological connections.

Continuing onwards, we will arrive at the Patococha Lagoon. Here, we’ll pitch our camp, enjoy dinner, and fall asleep beneath the vast starry sky.

Day 3: Patococha to Ingapirca and return to Riobamba

Rise and shine! After a filling breakfast, we will spend 4 hours traversing the Inca Trail towards the Ingapirca ruins, the largest Inca archaeological site in Ecuador.

Upon arrival, we will visit the Temple of the Sun and delve into the narrative of the Inca conquest of the Cañari culture, exploring how these events are reflected in the ruins. Following our tour, we will savor a traditional lunch before heading back to Riobamba, with an estimated return to your hotel by 5 pm.

Accommodations

This itinerary includes 2 nights of camping in spacious tents designed to accommodate up to 3 individuals, along with a sleeping bag to ensure your comfort.