The Best Campsites on the Inca Trail (and Why I’d Choose Them Every Time)

After hiking the Inca Trail and seeing the different places you can camp, I’m convinced there’s a “dream route” for where to spend the night. If I could do it all over again, I’d pick:

Night 1 – Wayllabamba Night 2 – Pacaymayu

Night 3 – Phuyupatamarca

It’s the perfect mix of scenery, atmosphere, and pacing.

Night One: Wayllabamba – A Gentle Start

Wayllabamba sits in a quiet valley surrounded by mountains, and it feels like the trail is easing you in. The air is crisp, there’s usually a canopy of stars, and the soft murmur of the Cusichaca River is the perfect soundtrack to fall asleep to. It’s peaceful and green, and you know the big climbs are still ahead, but for now, it’s all about settling into the rhythm of the trail.

Night Two: Pacaymayu – Your Hard-Earned Rest

Getting to Pacaymayu means you’ve crossed Dead Woman’s Pass—one of the toughest sections of the trek. The descent into camp is breathtaking, with towering peaks and deep valleys on either side. At night, it’s quiet except for the wind moving through the grass, and there’s this incredible feeling of accomplishment. You’ve done the hardest part, and the trail ahead feels lighter.

Night Three: Phuyupatamarca – Sleeping Above the Clouds

Phuyupatamarca is pure magic. This high mountain campsite sits among ancient terraces, and in the morning you wake up to clouds drifting below you. The air is cool and fresh, and orchids bloom along the path out of camp. It’s hard to put into words, but it feels like you’re stepping into another world—one where time has slowed down just for you.

Finding a Company That Offers This Route

Not every trekking company gets these exact campsites—permits are limited and assigned by the government—so you’ll want to book early and ask specifically for this combination. Its worth paying attention to their route maps before you commit.