inca trail lodge trek

Lodge To Lodge Trek To Machu Picchu

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Lodge To Lodge Trek To Machu Picchu, A Premium Collection Journey!

Lodge To Lodge Trek To Machu Picchu –The glory of the ancient rock-built Incan citadels and dramatic vistas color this 6-day journey to the wondrous “Lost City of the Incas”.

Bask in the spectacular Andean trek, no camping! On the fantastic trails of the Sacred Valley of the Incas in Cordillera Urubamba, the mountain landscape that cradles Machu Picchu , we will hike by ancient Inca Trails, into delicate cloud lush forests draped in orchids and bromeliads, and explore the dazzling Incan buildings of Pisac, Wiñaywayna, Chinchero, Pumamarca, Ollantaytambo, and more.

Hike the Inca Trail reaching Machu Picchu through the Gate of the Sun and gaze out this unique site in a tranquil afternoon. At the end of each hiking day, we are welcomed at a lodge in Sacred Valley, with each lodge featuring private rooms, hot showers, delightful cuisine, and even saunas. The grand finale is our exploration of ethereal Machu Picchu, the crown jewel of the Inca world.

Join us for the adventure of a lifetime – give us a call at  +51 984 464 391  or shoot us an email at  [email protected]  to learn more or book your spot today!

This trip is officially operated by Peru Summit Adventures, a 100% local tour operator based in Cusco

Think Green, Think Global for a Better Place for Everyone

Traveling with us you are making a big difference in favor of the environment, our trips are rated as eco-friendly trips to ensure that fragile ecosystems are protected and maintained for future human generations, also maintain ecosystem and environment integrity through considering a sustainable and ethical business model. Making genuine and sustainable itineraries often translates to real costs, with a host of responsible travel practices that underpin our prices.

Trip Details

Upgraded Comfort

UPGRADED COMFORT: Premium or Comfort trips are led by Peru Summit Adventures experts, an experienced crew at your side, or top trip leaders/guides, and tap into private local experts' resources to allow for in-depth exploration and special access to unique sites that only the local leaders/guides know. Itineraries are carefully crafted and fully planned, with plenty of free time to roam. Camping gears are high-end and accommodations are high-end or best available. Ground transportation and most meals (especially in hikes) and activities are included in the trip price.

MODERATE: Designed for travelers who have some experience in hiking and have a regular physical condition. Half- to full-day hikes (3-6 hours) over rolling countryside on most days, occasional steep trails. Many of our hotel-based walking tours are in this category, as are our day-hikes adventures.

Hiking, Archaeology & Cultural Adventures

Important Note

While we expect the tour will run as the itinerary describes to Lodge To Lodge Trek To Machu Picchu. Participants should accept that there is the possibility of changes, being necessary liable to local conditions, eg, strikes, natural disasters, these changes might be at the discretion of your travel company.

Accomodation

Cozy and lovely lodges each night in the Sacred Valley Urubamba.

Min 2 ppl, Max 8 ppl

Minimum of 02 people is needed to depart. Family groups, couple travelers, friends, or even if you’re a SOLO traveler, you are welcome to our trips. Price is per person, which is based on two people who might share a room/tent. The itinerary is described and based on shared services as well as semi-private service; however, if you are looking for a private service, that would be upon request.

Limited Spaces

YES. To protect the historical trail, the number of people allowed to hike the Short Inca Trail each day is limited to 250. That is why you should reserve your space as soon as possible. Spaces can be filled up three to four months in advance. Spaces fill more quickly in the high tourist season, from May to September.

Acclimatization

Please allow a minimum of 1 day in Cusco city before your hike begins to Lodge To Lodge Trek To Machu Picchu.

Why experience the Lodge To Lodge Trek To Machu Picchu

Since 2014 and since the very first day of our operation, Peru Summit Adventures has been blazing new ways of experiencing in Machu Picchu treks and tours. Our trailblazing is just one reason we are a uniquely qualified local company to ensure you have a trip of a lifetime.

• Hike the lesser-known Inca Trails in Urubamba Valley and hike a part of the classic Inca Trail to Machu Picchu.
• Experience and have lunch at a local Quechua family’s home while listening to unique stories from them.
• Explore Machu Picchu and see it twice with a private guide at your side.
• Trek in a high Andean realm, but stay in lodges with private rooms and hot showers—no camping!
• Explore trail-side archaeological sites that only this trek hikers have access to.
• Enter Machu Picchu on foot through the Gate of the Sun, as the Incas once did.
• Soak in vistas of snow-capped Andean peaks, lush cloud forest, and awe-inspiring ruins sites.

Trip Itinerary

Day 1: pisac hike (a full exploration of pisac), the following itinerary is only a sample, which is completely customizable based on your interest or you can stay with it..

Your trip begins today in Cusco, we come to your hotel to pick you and drive to Pisac archaeological park, en route we will have some stops at scenic points and we will visit the llama and alpaca farm. Upon our arrival Pisac, we will start with a proper exploration of the park, visiting the all notable sites inside this park. After that, we will follow a section of Inca Trail to reach the bustling Pisac market, along this section of the trail, we will see more Incan agricultural terraces which are covering the hillsides of the jagged mountains, and also we will see a beautiful waterfall. It’s here where we will learn and understand about the Incan agriculture technology as the place is pretty much a living museum. Upon our arrival in Pisac town, we will try some local empanadas and have a picnic lunch, which is prepared by our personal cook. Lunch included.

• Hiking time: 3 – 4 hours
• Hiking distance: 7 km/ 4.35 miles
• Highest point: 3,400 m / 11,155 ft
• Lowest point: 2,970 m/ 9,744 ft
• Physical grading: Moderate
• Hotel/ Lodge: Tierra Viva Valle Sagrado Urubamba

DAY 2: Urquillos Inca Trail - Chinchero 

Another great hiking day to soak more in Andean landscape and history of the Incas, after breakfast, you will be transferred to Chinchero on our private transportation. Urquillos Inca Trail, this trail is linking the towns located high in the mountains with other towns in the valley level. The hike starts in Chinchero (12,303 ft) a quaint colonial village with  Inca ruins around and an XVII century church, where we will visit this place and start our hike following the trail down the valley to the Urquillos town (9,514 ft) in the Sacred Valley. On the halfway, we will eat our picnic lunch. Today, we will have an opportunity to learn about the Andean textile which is still surviving around this zone of Peru, and we will learn about the llamas, alpacas, methods of weaving, techniques to obtain natural colors from the environment to dye wools. Upon our arrival to Urquillos town we will take our private transportation back to our lodge. Breakfast and picnic lunch included.

• Hiking distance: 8 km/ 4.97 miles
• Highest point: 3,750 m / 12,303 ft
• Lowest point: 2,900 m/ 9,514 ft
• Hotel/lodge: Tierra Viva Valle Sagrado Urubamba

DAY 3: Huaypo Lagoon - Lunch at Local Quechua Family's Home - Maras salt Ponds - Moray 

Today, we’ll take you through the rolling countryside, terracotta roof highlands houses, the impeccable food at a local family’s home and photogenic Andean villages that epitomize rural Cusco. After a great breakfast at our lodge, we will drive for 45 minutes to the beginning of the trail, at this place, we will make our day packs and fedoras ready for a 4-hour hike, we will follow a local trail which connects farmlands with homes, as we will get the uphill section we will see Huaypo lagoon nestled in the middle of hills and surrounded by quinoa crops. After 2-hour hiking we will get the highest point, a very scenic spot, in a further direction the Urubamba range will reveal us its staggering beauty of snowcapped mountains. From the other side, the Huaypo lagoon will draw us with its stunning beauty and size, this place will be a perfect one to photograph the Andean scenery. After a while, we will descend for 45 minutes to reach the local family’s home, where we will have a great feast (Pachamanca lunch) while listening to their unique stories from this place and lagoon. After having a great succulent lunch, we will drive to Maras salt ponds, where your private guide will deliver great information about this site and you will learn about the processing and methods to make a proper salt. Our next place to visit will be Moray, a great farming testing center from the Incan times, due to this place, Peru has over 3000 varieties of potatoes or over 20 varieties of quinoa. Eventually, we will drive back to our lodge in Yanahuara village. Breakfast and lunch included.

• Hiking time: 3 – 4 hours
• Hiking distance: 9 km/ 5.59 miles
• Highest point: 3,650 m / 11,975 ft
• Lowest point: 3,150 m/ 10,335 ft
• Physical grading : Moderate

DAY 4: Pumamarca Ruins - Inca Trail - Ollantaytambo

After having a nutritious breakfast at the hotel, we will drive for 1 hour to get the trailhead. Upon our arrival, we will hike uphill for 30 minutes to get the Pumamarca Inca ruins, where we will explore it for one hour, after the exploration, we will hike following a section of Inca Trail to reach Ollantaytambo, the hike will treat us with amazing views and many Incan agricultural terraces along the trail. At one of the scenic spots, we will take our picnic lunch. Once we arrive in Ollantaytambo town, we will explore its ancient cobblestone alleyways, which still maintain the original Incan structures, our next place to visit is the Ollantaytambo the temple of the sun, where will be soaked by impressive views. We will then, drive to our next hotel located in this town. Breakfast and picnic lunch included.

• Hiking time: 4 – 5 hours
• Hiking distance: 10 km/ 6.21 miles
• Highest point: 3,500 m / 11,483 ft
• Lowest point: 2,790 m/ 9,154 ft
• Hotel/lodge: Pakaritampu or Albergue Ollantaytambo

DAY 5: Ollantaytambo – Short Inca Trail – Gate of the Sun - Machu Picchu

We will wake up early this morning to have our breakfast and get ready for today’s adventure. We will take the 6:10 am train to Km 104, the train journey is for 1 hour and 25 minutes to get the Km 104. At point the train stops to get off and go walking to the main checkpoint for the respective registration, this place is located at an elevation of 2,150 m/ 7,054 ft, after the registration we will walk for a couple of minutes and we will reach the first Incan site called Chachabamba that consists of having temples, the main patio, sacred rock, etc. In which, our guide will deliver a great information about this site. Afterward, we will continue walking gradually uphill enjoying the spectacular sceneries until reaching the Wiñaywayna Incan temple whose meaning is “forever young”, where our guide will deliver you a great history of this site. After the exploration of the Incan temple, we’ll take our snacks or packed lunch at the checkpoint of Wiñaywayna. We’ll then continue hiking to Machu Picchu for two more hours, entering in this wonder of the world through the Gate of the Sun, from where we’ll have the first glimpses of the famed Incan city, and take our time to make great shots from this point. Once we arrive at Machu Picchu we’ll savor this unique place and take our time to make great shots of the Incan city, as the afternoon is usually with fewer people. We’ll then take the bus to Machu Picchu town (Aguas Calientes town) where we’ll stay at cozy hotel Tierra Viva Machu Picchu. Only breakfast and packed lunch included. Please note: On this trail, each hiker will carry the backpacks and the provided packed lunch.

• Hiking distance: 12 km / 7.46 miles.
• Hiking time: 6 – 7 hours.
• Lowest elevation: 2,150 m / 7,054 ft.
• Highest elevation: 2,650 m / 8,694 ft.
• Physical rating: Moderate.
• Hotel/lodge: Tierra Viva Machu Picchu

DAY 6: Machu Picchu Guided Tour – Cusco

Today a great breakfast at the hotel makes us ready for a full morning exploration of Machu Picchu on a private tour with your Trek Leader. We’ll take the bus back to Machu Picchu early in the morning for an amazing tour until 12:00 pm (Machu Picchu permits will issue for the first group which is from 6:00 am to 12:00 pm). If you have booked a permit for Wayna Picchu mountain, you’ll climb the mountain after the tour or before the tour; however, spaces are subject to availability. In the unlikely event that Wayna Picchu permits are not available for your departure date, you will climb Machu Picchu Mountain instead. After a great time at the great Incan citadel, we’ll take the bus down to Machu Picchu town (Aguas Calientes town), where we’ll have lunch (not included). In the afternoon we’ll take the train back to Ollantaytambo train station and/or Poroy train station, as of this place continue driving to your hotel in Cusco. End of the adventure. Only breakfast included.

Note on Itinerary

Although we do our very best possible to adhere to the schedule above, this itinerary is subject to change for several reasons beyond our control, including strikes, weather, natural disasters, and terrain conditions. On some occasions, these conditions may demand us to deviate from our original schedule, in which case we will provide the best available alternative options. And we’ll make a great experience of it!

Included on the Lodge To Lodge Trek To Machu Picchu

• 5 nights at cozy lodges in Sacred Valley Urubamba and Machu Picchu Town
• Private Trek Leader
• All transportation service on a private van and a professional driver
• All entrance tickets to all visited places
• 5 breakfast, 5 picnic lunch (1 packed lunch for Short Inca Trail). With option for vegetarians, gluten free, lactose free
• Short Inca Trail permits and tickets
• Machu Picchu entrance tickets
• Bus tickets in Machu Picchu
• Round trip train tickets
• Oxygen tank and first aid kits

Not Included on the Lodge To Lodge Trek To Machu Picchu

• First breakfast and last lunch on day 6.
• Hiking poles (available for renting)
• Extra expenditure during the trek, hotel stay, such as soda, alcoholic drinks, extra snacks, tickets for the hot springs in Machu Picchu town.
• Gratuities for guides, and other staff.
• Travel Insurance (you need to have one to travel with us).

Prices & Dates

• SEMI PRIVATE 2022 FIXED DEPARTURES
• GO PRIVATE & CUSTOMIZE

Availability:

This departure is guaranteed to go ahead and is available for new bookings. Please click Continue to proceed with your booking.

• Flexibility on dates: Choose your own dates, you decide when to start your journey.
• Perfect for families, group of mates (friends), honeymoon: Make this trip for you and your loved ones or someone special.
• Totally customizable: Travel the way you want; so you can travel exactly how you want. Book this trip as is or customize it to be as active or relaxed, rustic or luxurious as you wish to go. Perfect for multi-generational families and to celebrate a special anniversary or milestone birthday.
• Go at your own pace: Walk or explore on your own rhythm, forget to stay or keep up with the large groups. It's your own journey.

Note on Prices

Prices are quoted in US Dollars and all payments must be made in US Dollars. Prices are per person based on SEMI-PRIVATE service; we depart with 2 ppl as a minimum, 8 ppl as maximum, and an average of 4 ppl in a group. This tour is also based on a double twin-bed (matrimonial if requested) or triple occupancy in case of families or friends for hotel rooms, single rooms are subject to a single supplement fee.

Trip Payment Schedule

• At time of reservation: 30% of the total balance.
• 60 days prior to departure: Balance should be paid fully, or once upon your arrival in Cusco the other 70% of final balance must be paid fully.

Cancellation and Transfer Fee Schedule

• Minimum fee (Tour permit fee): $250 per person
• 61-90 days prior to departure: 30% of trip cost
• 46-60 days prior to departure: 50% of trip cost
• 45 days or less: 100% of trip cost

What Makes Us Different!… Here’s, Why You Should Book With Us!

Making a choice of your right travel company/ tour operator is the most important decision you will make as you make your plans for a long-anticipated dreamed adventure. At first glance, some companies may seem cheaper. However, when you research a little deeper, you will see why traveling with Peru Summit Adventures assures that you will have the most memorable travel experience possible. In fact, we guarantee it, our TripAdvisor reviews say that.

Making genuine and sustainable itineraries often translate to real costs, with a host of responsible travel practices that underpin our prices, here are the reasons why you should go with us!

1. We Focus on Details

2. our safety record is flawless, 3. knowledge and expertise, 4. the smallest groups en route “lodge to lodge trek to machu picchu” – averaging just 4 travelers, 5. we deliver on our promises.

6. The Best Fare For The Best Trip

7. you book, you go…don’t worry… we won’t cancel, 8. we are local entrepreneurs, a family enterprise (we are not a gringo company).

Probably you will see that most of the tour operators mention it on their websites that are local tour companies, however, if you research a little deeper you will find out that’s not true, they might be although half of the operation is done from here and another half abroad, they even have NorthAmerican phone number or European phone numbers, which is a clue to find out, we are not against the foreigner companies or half foreign companies, what we are against is that they lie.

9. Responsible Travel

Be a responsible traveller! Let’s make this world a better place for everyone and for everyone that lives in it!  The natural environments that we travel to are fragile and abundant with beautiful culture and traditions that are often reliant on tourism. We have a responsibility as travelers to minimize the impact of our presence, protect what is delicate, and leave a positive influence everywhere we can.

As a locally owned and based Peruvian tour company, we integrate these practices into our in-country operations we are aiming for a style of travel that makes the world a better place for everyone, and for everyone that lives in it. Since our very first days as a tour operator, responsible business has been at the heart of what we do. Peru Summit Adventures is committed not just to treading lightly, but to making a real difference by helping and investing in local communities, education initiatives, environmental conservation projects. These values are not more than just words, they are ingrained in the culture and philosophy of our crew, daily operations of Peru Summit Adventures trips, and at our office too. 

Our Flawless Reviews | Your Words -- We Tell It Like It Is!

Experience of a lifetime.

Amanda R from EEUU

Best trip of my life, michael p from eeuu, trekking machu picchu, sam e from eeuu, custom salkantay trek for 13 plus wedding, meridith craven from eeuu, ausengate trek – best 5 days so far, stefanie from eeuu, salkantay walk with peru summit, daryl s from eeuu, trip checklist.

• Original passport and Student ISIC card (if applicable), and some copies.
• Travel insurance (and some copies)
• Backpack to carry your things.
• Phone and Camera charger and adapter.
• Bathing suit (if you would like to enjoy the hot springs in Aguas Calientes).
• Deet or mosquito repellent ( recommendable 30% deet).
• Hiking poles ( or you can rent one pair from us)
• Rain gear (especially if traveling in the wet season, from October to March).
• Comfortable hiking clothes.
• Good hiking boots with protector ankle or similar, and one pair of flip-flops or light sandals.
• Sunblock and sunglasses.
• Hands sanitizer
• Hiking long sleeve T-shirts.
• Hiking trousers.
• Hiking socks.
• Water bottle or canteen.
• American dollars and Peruvian soles in cash.
• Toilet paper, and face tissue paper.
• Crédit or debit card.
• Anti-inflammatory tablets (e.g. Ibuprofen).
• Personal first-aid kit (should contain lip salve, Diamox (Acetazolamide), Aspirin, Band Aids, anti-histamine, Imodium or similar tablets for mild cases of diarrhea, re-hydration powder, extra prescription drugs you may take).

Whats the Trip Like

Weather in lodge to lodge trek to machu picchu, trek leaders or guides are part of the core of peru summit adventures and your perfect local companion.

The perfect custom-made private tours, adventure tours, or expeditions don’t just happen. It takes a team of talented, knowledgeable, passionate, and experienced professionals to bring it all together and possible. Our team of Peru Summit Adventures Leaders is comprised of local trip veterans, seasoned tour veterans with rich backgrounds on history, archaeology, culture, cuisine, geology, biology, and more.

With the highest staff-to-guest ratio in the travel industry, our Trip Leaders safely deliver your trip-of-a-lifetime to maximize your Peru journeys and adventures every step of the way. Our Tour/Trek Leaders have worked extensively in the Peru isolated mountains, archaeological sites, hiking the Inca Trail (at least 150 times), Amazon jungle, and being at Machu Picchu for over 400 times at least, this guarantees your trip a unique and memorable experience.

Extend your Experience

Rainbow Mountain Tour from Cusco

Ausangate 7 Lakes Hike

Tambopata Macaw’s Clay Lick 5 Days

Cusco Highlights & Surroundings

Hotels: We select carefully our hotels in each destination all over the country. And we select our accommodations for how well they represent the distinctive character of the destination you’re in. Some of these rooms and cabanas draw their inspiration from history and others from the views they offer. What’s consistent, however, is that we stand by each and every one of these for what they’ll add to your experience.

Suggested Reading List

We have created a custom comprehensive listing of Lodge To Lodge Trek To Machu Picchu , Machu Picchu and Peru , Machu Picchu, and Peru travel books for this trip. Our reading list Peru is custom-designed to complement specific Peru Summit destinations. We feature a handpicked selection of travel guides, maps, literature, books on art, cuisine, nature, and culture, designed to help you get more out of your travels to Machu Picchu & Peru.

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The experts at Peru Summit Adventures specialize in crafting highly-customized trips. We look forward to answering your questions about your upcoming travel plans. Get started by filling out the information below

Tour name: Lodge To Lodge Trek To Machu Picchu

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We can customize this private tour just for you. Any detail can be tailored – activities, length, hotels, and other destinations as well as we can accommodate this tour to the photography experience. Use the form below to start planning your experience of a lifetime.

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Waynapicchu and Machupicchu Climb: Consider this option only if you are taking 5-Day Trek Inca Trail Trek Waynapicchu Mountain Machupicchu Mountain More info about Waynapicchu and Machu Picchu here

Add these private tours to your trek at discounted prices (based on 02 people): Sacred Valley Full Day ($ 125.00 pp) Rainbow Mountain Trek ($ 130.00 pp) Humantay Lake Full Day Tour ($ 130.00 pp) Extended Sacred Valley ($ 130.00 pp) Cusco Highlights Tour ($ 90.00 pp) Ausangate 7 Lakes Tour ($ 140.00 pp) Cusco Walking Tour ($ 45.00 pp)

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The Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu

Upper sacred valley & lares adventure to machu picchu, black diamond trek to machu picchu.

• The Grand Andean Experience
• Trip Extensions
• The Wellness and Yoga Experience to Machu Picchu
• Multi-Sport Adventure to Machu Picchu
• Archaeoastronomy Journey to Machu Picchu
• Salkantay Lodge Getaway
• Upper Sacred Valley Lodge Getaway

XO Art House

• Refugio Viñak
• Lamay Lodge
• How to Book

Our Purpose

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Dynamic terrain, inspiring vistas, and diverse ecosystems — follow the road less traveled on our 7-day trekking adventure.

Design your unique journey from an exciting list of MLP adventure and cultural immersion activities on our 5- or 7-day trip through the Sacred Valley of the Incas to Machu Picchu.

An advanced-level trekking journey from the Plaza de Armas in Cusco all the way to the Sun Gate at Machu Picchu.

Special Interest Travel

Join us on one of our new Special Interest Travel limited departure programs—unique, focused adventure experiences led by our world-class mountain guides as well as accredited experts in each field.

Lodge Getaways

Our 3-day lodge programs are designed for travelers game for adventure but short on time. Settle into one of our MLP luxury lodges and get ready for exciting excursions to explore Salkantay and the Sacred Valley.

Extend Your Trip in Peru

Let our MLP travel specialists help you expand your itinerary beyond Machu Picchu. Visit other iconic destinations in Peru’s colorful Andean highlands, lush Amazonian jungle, and expansive desert coastline.

Watch the Salkantay Inca Trail

The ultimate trek to Machu Picchu film by Mountain Lodges of Peru.

Upper Sacred Valley and Lares Adventure to Machu Picchu

A Life-Changing Experience.

Modern comfort in the heart of Cuscoʻs historic arts, district just steps away from the picturesque main square.

Surround yourself with modern Cusqueñan art in Casona-style guest rooms.

El Mercado is a welcoming property designed with a fresh take on traditional Andean art and cultural elements.

The whimsical El Retablo is a charming B&B-style property that showcases exquisite art and murals created by artists from the historically celebrated Cusco School of Fine Arts.

Passion, reciprocity, expertise, and professionalism—we are the pioneers of luxury lodge-to-lodge travel and unique cultural connections in the Andean Highlands to Machu Picchu and beyond.

The Salkantay lodge to lodge hike… tiring but wonderful. Real sense of achievement and learning a little about the highlands of Peru. Can’t wait to return and do another trip.

Thank you to MLP–you gave us the experience of a lifetime. We benefited from the knowledgeable and committed leadership of our guide and the first class service…MLP are well-respected by the local communities in which they operate.

As a couple who has NEVER hiked a day in our lives, the organization of the seven days far exceeded any expectations we had.

We have been trekking with Antonio for a week and I could not be happier with the journey. I was traveling by myself, but the staff made me feel very welcome and safe.

We just spent an amazing 7 days on The Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu. The entire trip was so well organized…[and] our guides were fantastic. A journey of a lifetime.

Despite some unusually bad weather, our guides were always encouraging and the lodge staff were ready to warm us up after a hard day of hiking–always working to make your trip an amazing experience. We highly recommend MLP!!

Authentic experiences through many special communities such as Choquecancha, expert local guides and very comfortable lodges in the Andes. A transformational and inspirational journey!!

I just got back from the Salkantay Trek. Our guides were the best. They shared so much with us about their country, their heritage, and their love of nature. I came home with a deep respect for the people of Peru and all their culture has to offer. MLP is a class act from beginning to end.

Our plan was not to bring our 8 year-old daughter [but] due to changes in timing we decided to bring her. I can’t imagine not having her with us on this incredible adventure. She learned so much, she was engaged in all the different cultural excursions as well as ALL the treks.

Katherine S.

Experiencemlp.

• +51 984 004 472
• Machu Picchu, Cusco, Perú
• Mon-Sat: 10 AM – 5 PM

Inca Trail Lodge to Lodge

The Machu Picchu hike (Camino Inca in Spanish), a 50 km (31 mi) sector of the stone path that once extended from Cusco to Machu Picchu, is one of the world´s signature outdoor excursions, Nothing matches the sensation of walking over the ridge that leads to the Lost City of the Inca just as the sun casts its first yellow glow over the ancient stone buildings.

Though the journey by PeruRail is the easiest way to get to Machu Picchu , most travelers who arrive via the Inca Trail wouldn´t have done it any other way. There are limits on the number of trail users, but you´ll still see a lot of fellow trekkers along the way. The four - day trek takes you past ruins and through stunning scenery, starting in the thin air of the highlands and ending in cloud forests. The orchids, humming birds, Andean condors, and spectacular mountains aren´t bad either.

The majority of agencies begin the Machu Picchu hike at km 82 after a two-to-three-hour bus ride from Cusco.

Compared to what lies ahead, the first day´s hike is a reasonably easy 12 km. You´ll encounter fantastic ruins almost immediately. An easy ascent takes you to the first of those, Patallaqta (also called Llactapata). The name means town on a hillside in Quechua, and the ruins are thought to have been a village in Inca times. Bingham and company camped here on their first excursion to Machu Picchu . As at most Inca sites, you´ll see three levels of architecture representing the three spiritual worlds of the Inca - the world above (a guard tower), the world we live in (the main complex), and the world below (the river and hidden aqueducts).

At the end of the day, you arrive at Huayllabamba (also called as Wayllamba), the only inhabited village on the trail and your first overnight.

It´s another 12km hike, but with a gain of 1,200 m (3,940 ft) in elevation. The day is most memorable for the spectacular views and muscular aches after ascending Dead Woman´s Pass (also known as Warmiwañusca) at 4,200 m (13,780 ft). The pass is named for the silhouette created by its mountain ridges - they resemble a woman´s head, nose, chin, and chest. A tricky descent takes you to Pacaymayu, the second night´s campsite, and you can pat yourself on the back for completing the hardest section of the Inca trail.

Downhill! You descend to the subtropical cloud forest where the Amazon basin begins. There´s some of the most stunning mountain scenery you´ll see during the four days. The ruins of Runkuraqay were a circular Inca storage depot for products transported between Machu Picchu and Cusco . You also pass by Sayacmarca, possibly a way station for priests traversing the trail. Most Inca Trail lodge to lodge arrive by mid-afternoon at Huiñay Huayna (also known as Wiñaywayna), the third-night´s stopping point, at what may now seem a low and balmy 2,712 m (8,900 ft). The first possibility of a hot shower and a cold beer are here. There is time to see the ruins of Puyupatamarca (also known as Phuyupatamarca) a beautifully restored site with ceremonial baths, and perhaps the best ruins on the hike. At this point you catch your first glimpse of Machu Picchu peak, but from the back side.

This is it. Day 4 means the grand finale, arrival at Machu Picchu, the reason for the Inca Trail lodge to lodge . You´ll be roused from your sleeping bag well before dawn to arrive at the ruins in time to catch the sunrise. You´ll be amazed at the number of fellow travelers who forget about their aching muscles and sprint this last stretch. The Machu Picchu hike takes you past the Intipunku, the Sun Gate. Bask in your first sight of the ruins and your accomplishment, but you´ll need to circle around and enter Machu Picchu officially through the entrance gate.

Hiking tours to Machu Picchu

Many are the routes that take you to Machu Picchu, but none is like the  Inca Trail Tours , the most famous pedestrian path in the Americas. After flying from the  capital of Perú , Lima, you will arrive in Cusco to walk for four days along a path through forests and dense fog, millenary stone steps and discovering the ruins of ancient fortifications and Inca cities, and all the time enjoying majestic views. 

• Salkantay Trek  to Machu Picchu 5 days
• Hiking the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu 5 days
• Inca Quarry Trail  4 Days
• 2 Day Inca Trail Tour
• 2 Day Inca Trail with Camping
• 3 Day Inca Trail
• Vilcabamba Hike to Machu Picchu 6 days
• Choquequirao trek to Machu Picchu 9 days
• Ausangate trek 7 days

If you want to visit Machu Picchu, we recommend you to book your  Machu Picchu Ticket  in advance, so you will enjoy your  Vacation in Machu Picchu  without any problem.

When is the best time to hike to Machu Picchu?

The best season is during the dry season, which covers the months April to the end of September. In October the rains begin and you can find Machu Picchu covered by clouds. If you travel in June, we recommend you to book the  Inti Raymi 2024  Tour that takes place in June 24th, and also hike the  Palcoyo Mountain Tour , which is an incredible Rainbow Mountain located in the Andes. 

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Machu Picchu Lodge Trek: Newest Trail on the Block

• 1.00K views
• ~ mins read

For those of you who want a taste of trekking in the high Andes before visiting Machu Picchu but are not willing to compromise on comfort, the Machu Picchu lodge trek is perfect for you! The Machu Picchu lodge trek offers all the pleasures of trekking in the mountains – with luxury accommodation, a comfortable bed, a good meal and a glass of wine awaiting you at the end of each day’s exertions. Now, doesn’t that sound lovely? 

• Kelley Lipphard

The Machu Picchu Lodge trek usually takes seven days and follows the same trail as the Salkantay trek . The first day involves travelling by car from Cusco to Marcoccasa and then hiking up to the Salkantay Lodge, while the second day is devoted to an acclimatization hike to Humantay Lake and back. On the third day, the real trek begins. Over the next few days, trekkers cross several high passes, including the Salkantay Pass at 4,640m, and are treated to some classic Andean scenery. At the end of each day, a cozy lodge and delicious hot meal is the reward for your efforts. The final night is spent in Aguas Calientes (aka Machu Picchu Town). On the final morning, you will be given a guided tour of Machu Picchu before taking transport back to Cuzco.

• Luxury lodge accommodation and delicious sit-down meals every evening
• Spectacular scenery including views of Salkantay mountain
• Crossing the Salkantay Pass (at 4,640m), which provides stunning views
• Views of Machu Picchu from the Llactapata Pass (at 2,736m)
• Less crowds than the classic Inca Trail
• High altitude trek, proper acclimatization necessary to avoid altitude sickness
• More expensive than most other treks in Peru

Machu Picchu Lodge Trek Facts

Machu picchu lodge trek 7- day itinerary.

Day 1: Cusco – Marcoccasa (by car), Marcoccasa – Salkantay Lodge, 3,869m (6 hours)

Day one starts at 7am with a drive to Marcoccasa and the start of the trek. From here, it is a six-hour hike to the first night’s accommodation at Salkantay Lodge.

Day 2: Hike to Humantay Lake

In order to continue acclimatizing before the trek, take a day hike to Humantay Lake. This is a challenging four-hour walk. Accommodation is in Salkantay Lodge.

Day 3: Salkantay Lodge – Wayra Lodge, 3,906m (6–8 hours)

Day three is the start of the real trek and also the most difficult day since it involves crossing the Salkantay Pass (4,640 m).

Day 4: Wayra Lodge – Colpa Lodge, 2,870m (3–4 hours)

The fourth day is much easier and enjoyable and only requires three or four hours of walking as the trail descends into the warmer air of the cloud forest.

Day 5: Colpa Lodge – Lucma Lodge, 2,135m (5–6 hours)

This day is slightly more challenging than the previous one and requires around five or six hours of walking through areas where fruit is cultivated. A short 30-minute drive is required before a final trek to the night’s accommodation at Lucma Lodge.

Day 6: Lucma Lodge – Aguas Calientes 1,900m (4–6 hours)

The highlight of the final day of trekking is crossing the Llactapata Pass (2,736 m) from where it is possible to see Machu Picchu below. The Salkantay Trek is the only trail offering such a view. The final part of the journey to Aguas Calientes is completed by train. Accommodation is at the Inkaterra Hotel.

Day 7: Visit to Machu Picchu and return to Cusco

The final day starts with a guided tour of Machu Picchu, after which transport is organised for the trip back to Cusco .

An alternative trek option: The Lares Lodge Trek

Currently, the Machu Picchu lodge trek is the only trail that offers the chance to complete a point-to-point trek while staying in luxury lodges each night. However, an alternative is a tour of the Lares region with cultural activities or various hikes organized during the days and accommodation in lodges similar to those on the Machu Picchu lodge trek at night. Treks can be organized for either five days and four nights or seven days and six nights.

Safety considerations

This trek is not particularly dangerous if participants are fully prepared, but it should not be undertaken lightly. At no point does the trek descend below 2,000m and at its highest point, it reaches well above 4,000m. At these altitudes, it is easy to become fatigued and trekkers should not push themselves to do more than they can manage.

Altitude sickness

Altitude sickness can be a problem at altitudes of above 2,000-2,500m and proper acclimatization is essential before attempting the trail. Spending a couple of days in Cusco before the tour together with the acclimatisation treks to the Salkantay Lodge and Humantay Lake should be sufficient. Read more on how to prepare yourself against altitude sickness .

The Machu Picchu lodge trek is the ideal solution for if you do not want to endure the discomfort of sleeping in a tent on a hard floor in freezing conditions. It may not be the classic Inca Trail that leads right to the ruins themselves, but the chance to conquer a formidable trekking route while staying in luxury accommodation along the way is an enticing alternative.  For more to see while visiting Machu Picchu, see things to do in Machu Picchu .

Has Machu Picchu always been on your bucket list? Check out some of the best Machu Picchu tours we are offering. Since Machu Picchu has seasonal weather, please do read our guide on the  best time to visit Machu Picchu  before planning your tour. 

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Inca Trail Tours

Join one of our Inca Trail tours through the Andes mountains and make your grand entrance into Machu Picchu through the Sun Gate. Embark on the rewarding 4-day Inca Trail trek or opt for the condensed 2-day Inca Trail experience. This is the most famous trek in South America and permits for Inca Trail tours are limited, so advanced planning is a must.

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Answer your call to adventure on the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu. Our Inca Trail tour packages include English-speaking expert guides, accommodation, and more. Contact us to plan your dream trip and ask how you can further customize your itinerary to experience more of the country’s diverse highlights.

What to See in Inca Trail

Tread upon the same stones once walked upon by the royal Inca Empire. The Inca Trail is a 500-year old pathway that brings you directly to the Sun Gate at Machu Picchu for a rewarding journey filled with scenic moments you’ll never forget.

The Llactapata or sometimes called Patallacta ruins are approximately 1 mile (1.5 kilometers) from the start of the Inca Trail. These are the first set of ruins you'll see while hiking the Inca Trail.

Located right on the edge of the precipice, Sayacmarca is an impressive example of the Incas engineering skills.

This semi-circular Inca ruin is a scenic resting place along the Inca Trail. With a vantage point over the valley below, it has a well-thought-out position and is believed to have been used for ceremonial functions.

Phuyupatamarca

At 11,800 feet (3,600 meters) above sea level, Phuyupatamarca or Puyupatamarca is called the city in the clouds. Here you can find stone baths that are part of the Incan irrigation systems nourishing the green terraces.

Dead Woman’s Pass

Dead Woman's Pass, at 13,800 feet (4,215 meters) above sea level, is the highest point along the Inca Trail. Once you beat this part of the trek, the hardest part is behind you!

Wiñay Wayna

The Wiñay Wayna ruins are your last set of off-the-beaten-path Inca ruins you'll encounter on your Inca Trail trek. Terraces and Inca irrigation systems that still have water flowing down them make this spot an impressive resting place.

Inti Punku, or the Sun Gate, is your first point of contact with the Machu Picchu fortress. From this viewpoint on your Inca Trail trek, you'll see the Huayna Picchu ruins, Machu Picchu citadel, and surrounding mountain landscapes.

Machu Picchu Fortress

The UNESCO World Heritage site of Machu Picchu is what you've been waiting for! Witness its breathtaking sites and fascinating history.

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Lake Titicaca & Puno Hotels

GHL Hotel Lago Titicaca

Isla Esteves s/n, Puno

GHL Hotel Lago Titicaca is located right on the shores of Lake Titicaca on a private peninsula. With tastefully decorated rooms, modern amenities, and perfect views of Lake Titicaca, this hotel has all the makings for an unforgettable stay.

Casa Andina Premium Puno

Avenida Sesqui Centenario 1970, Sector Huaje, Puno

Casa Andina Premium Puno is a magnificent upscale hotel that will add to the unforgettable memories made on the shores of Lake Titicaca. This 4-star hotel has an onsite gourmet restaurant, a private pier leading to Lake Titicaca, and rooms with scenic wooden balconies overlooking Lake Titicaca.

Sonesta Posadas del Inca Puno

The Sonesta Posadas del Inca is ideally located on the shores of Lake Titicaca and just a few miles from Puno’s main plaza. Enjoy sitting outside or dining at the on-site Inkafé restaurant as you relax next to the deep blue waters that overlook snow-capped peaks.

Avenida Chulluni 195, Puno

The Xima Puno Hotel is a charming 2-star option with beautifully manicured grounds. This is a great option for comfort, excellent service, and affordable prices while you visit Lake Titicaca.

Peru Highlights

Peru is filled with archaeological ruins, scenic landscapes, and delicious flavors. Must-see places in Peru include:

Hike the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu in four or two days. The Inca Trail is a 500-year old pathway where the elite Incas once entered into the “Lost City of the Incas”. Plan with your Peru for Less travel advisor in advance, Inca Trail permits tend to sell out even 6-months in advance.

Amazon Rainforest

Step into the lush Peruvian Amazon Rainforest and witness a spectacular array of wildlife in its natural habitat. Lodges in Puerto Maldonado are ideal for excursions and daily activities. Those looking for a more luxurious Amazon experience would love an Iquitos Amazon River cruise. Colorful macaws, giant tarantulas, and playful river otters are among the sights you’ll behold.

Cusco city has it all, archaeological ruins, colonial buildings, top-rated restaurants, and countless places to explore. Your Cusco City Tour will take you to the top highlights like Sacsayhuaman, Q’enko, the Cusco Cathedral, and more.

Lake Titicaca

Sail on the deep blue waters of Lake Titicaca and step on the reed Uros and Taquile floating islands. Some of the best weavers are found in this area so pick up some Peruvian textiles here for unique souvenirs.

Lima is a mixture of modern city living and historical significance. Here you’ll find Central restaurant (ranked #6 by 50 Worlds Best), UNESCO World Heritage sites like Historic City Center with the San Francisco Convent, and the best shopping in Peru.

Nazca Lines

The Nazca Lines are mysterious geoglyphs and geometric shapes drawn onto the desert floor hundreds of years ago by the Nazca culture. Little is known about them nevertheless, the Nazca Lines inspire awe in those who take a flight over them.

Arequipa is a picturesque town and also the second-largest city in Peru. Local markets, beautifully built colonial architecture, and El Misti volcano are among the things you’ll see while walking the cobblestone streets of the white city.

How difficult is the Inca Trail trek?

The Inca Trail is considered a difficult trek because of its high elevation and sections of steep stone steps. However, the diverse landscapes and stunning views make this trek a worthwhile challenge!

What are my options for hiking to Machu Picchu?

The Inca Trail is the only hiking option that ends directly at the Machu Picchu citadel. The Inca Trail is available as a 4-day trek as well as a 2-day shortened version. Alternative hiking options to the Inca Trail also include a tour of Machu Picchu on the last day, however they do not end at the Machu Picchu ruins. For example, the Salkantay trek ends in Aguas Calientes while the Lares trek ends at the Ollantaytambo train station.

What is the difference between the 2-day and 4-day Inca Trail hike?

The 2-day and 4-day Inca Trail use the same trail, just with different starting points. The 4-day option starts at KM 82 near Ollantaytambo while the 2-day version starts at KM 104. The 2-day version bypasses Dead Woman’s Pass and the other more difficult spots, making it a more moderate trek. Both options still take you directly to the Sun Gate at Machu Picchu.

What do I need to bring for the Inca Trail hike?

Packing essentials for the Inca Trail are:

• Plastic bags to store wet clothes
• Toiletries & medicines
• Insect repellant
• Reusable water bottle
• Hiking boots & sandals for camp
• Lightweight t-shirts
• Lightweight sweaters
• Sleepwear & evening wear for camp
• Socks & underwear
• Hat & sunglasses
• Sleeping bag suitable to 23ºF (-5ºC) – can be rented.

How far in advance should I plan my Inca Trail hike?

Six months in advance. Inca Trail permits go on sale at the end of each year for the following year. For high-season dates from May–September, permits can sell out six months in advance. If you are flexible with your travel dates and don’t mind hiking during the shoulder seasons (March/April, October/November) or rainy season (December/January), less advanced planning is required.

Also, If you wish to hike to Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain once you are within Machu Picchu, be sure to bring this up to your travel advisor. These hikes have limited availability and a permit must be purchased about six months in advance for these hikes as well.

What is the food like on the Inca Trail?

The 4-day Inca Trail tour with Peru For Less will include plenty of food to keep you fueled for this grueling hike. Breakfast will be a big spread, while lunches and dinners include soups, chicken and rice, fried fish, veggies, french fries, beans and more.

Tell your Travel Advisor in advance if you have any dietary restrictions, such as vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, etc. Dietary restrictions are easily accommodated and will have just as much nutritious food.

Do I need a guide for the Inca Trail?

Yes. Peru’s Ministry of Tourism has made it mandatory to be accompanied by a registered tour guide to hike the 4-day and 2-day Inca Trail.

Should I hike the Inca Trail with a private or group tour?

A private Inca Trail tour is best for those concerned about their experience level affecting the rest of the group or for those simply wanting to do the trail with fewer people. On the other hand, a group Inca Trail tour allows travelers to share their hiking experience with new people.

How many people are in a group Inca Trail tour?

Peru For Less group Inca Trail tours have a maximum of 8 people per guide so that even in a group tour, you’ll feel well looked-after.

How can I hike the Inca Trail on a budget?

For the most affordable Inca Trail hike, opt for a group tour instead of private. Tips for porters and chefs can be split between larger groups, making total costs per person cheaper. We ensure that our tours offer the best quality and value, while also providing fair wages to porters, guides and chefs.

What can I do to prepare for my Inca Trail hike?

It is recommended to do some physical activity prior to your trip so that you’re in good physical condition to hike for multiple days. Walk or jog in your neighborhood, go on hikes in your region, do cardio exercises at the gym, and/or practice yoga or other physical activities. Also, prior to the hike, allow yourself the time to acclimate in Cusco for at least two days.

When is the best time to hike the Inca Trail?

The best time to hike the Inca Trail is during the dry season from May to September. Nights will be chillier, but you are unlikely to have rain during your trek. The next best time is during the shoulder seasons, March–April and October–November.

The rainy season from December to January isn’t recommended unless you really prefer few people and don’t mind the rain. Note that the Inca Trail is closed during the entire month of February for maintenance and safety reasons.

Will I get altitude sickness?

Altitude sickness, also known as Acute Mountain Sickness, occurs in 40-50 percent of people who live in low elevation areas traveling to an elevation of 10,000 feet or more. It occurs in 25 percent of people traveling to a destination of 8,000 feet or more. It is a temporary condition characterized by slight headache, shortness of breath when walking, fatigue, minor dizziness and loss of appetite. Symptoms develop between 6 to 24 hours of being at higher elevations, and last one to three days. It is typically mild and no need for alarm.

There are many ways to combat altitude sickness , like drinking lots of water, avoiding heavy and fatty foods, no smoking or drinking alcohol, eating whole grains and veggies and taking it slow the first couple days. Do not begin a challenging hike the first two days at high elevation, start your trek on day three the earliest.

What is your travel insurance program?

We do not directly offer travel insurance but can provide recommendations. Insurance companies such as itravelinsured , World Nomads , insuremytrip , and SquareMouth are good options. Please note that Peru for Less does not have any affiliation with the listed travel insurance companies. For a free quote and policy options you will need to contact the companies directly. It will be important to select a company and policy that fits your needs, even if not one listed there.

Contact Us today to cross the Inca Trail off your hiking bucket list!

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Happiness Promise

There are hundreds of thousands of guides and tour operators around the world. Figuring out who to trust is stressful and hard.

That’s why we started 10Adventures Tours, we’re here to make it easy to find a great guide or tour operator. We handpick the best local guides and tour operators for 10Adventures, working to ensure you have great guides and a great trip.

We know it sucks to show up in a different country and find out the tents are junk, the guide incompetent or the route different from what we thought we were getting.

We want to give our users peace of mind that you’ll have a great trip and offer a guarantee that we will work with you to make it right.

How does this work? Well, if you feel that something about your trip didn’t’ meet your expectations, let us know. We will then work to gather the details and figure out where things went wrong. If something indeed wasn’t as described, or went wrong with your trip, and the problem was within the control of either oursleves, the guide or the tour company, we will then work out a refund with you that’s proportional to the scale of the problem.

Obviously the best way to make a great trip is to tell your local guide or tour operator and give them the chance to fix the solution while you are on your trip. Most things can be solved by telling your guide when the issue develops. If that doesn’t solve it, then email us right away. Please don’t wait to voice your concerns until the trip is over, as it’s much harder to solve issues after the fact.

We work hard to make sure you have a great trip. If something isn’t right, please email  [email protected]  and we will get to work right away.

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Group travel can be chaotic and messy, which is why going on a trip with family or friends is the fun part and planning the trip, well… isn’t. But what if the group travel experience of your dreams could be organized without the hassle of you needing to plan every detail?

With 10Adventures group tours, you’ll be the mastermind behind an unforgettable trip without the need to worry about logistics, payments, or who can get time off for a holiday.

The VIP-level service of our Travel Advisors allows you to organize the adventure of your dreams, customize it exactly how you want to, and watch the savings roll in as more of your friends and family sign up for the once in a lifetime experience you created. It’s that simple!

Take the first step on your next group adventure by contacting one of our Travel Advisors today.

The window to travel as a family only narrows with time. Make the most of it by exploring the world together and creating memories that will last a lifetime.

Why share a travel experience with people you don’t know? Spend your hard-earned vacation surrounded by close friends on the adventure of a lifetime.

Shared travel experiences strengthen bonds and are the perfect way to come together as colleagues to solve challenges in a way that just can’t be done in an office environment.

Connect with members of your club or social circle over shared interests like food, culture, and the outdoors.

• VIP Service: Have a dedicated Travel Advisor who is always a call or a click away.
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• Easy Payment: Flexible payment schedule, and most importantly separate invoices so you aren’t left paying for other people.
• Private: Just you and your group making memories that will last your lifetime.
• Quality Time: There’s no better way to travel than alongside family and or friends. Enjoy quality time exploring the world with those you love most.

Lodge to Lodge Incas Trek in Peru

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Experience the legendary, storied mountains of Peru on a 3-Day Lodge-to-Lodge Trek

Take the first step towards a private travel experience, customized just for you.

About this tour:

What travellers are saying about 10Adventures

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Why travellers choose this tour

At 10Adventures, we take care of the details so that our guests can focus on making memories. Enjoy these key features on this tour.

We're Canadian

Book with a Canadian company whose mission is to help you travel the world.

Accommodations

Accommodations for 2 nights are included.

Don't worry about meals. 2 breakfasts, 2 lunches, 2 dinners, and snacks are included.

Check out the 'What's Included' tab for more info on personal transfers during your tour.

Local Support

Travel stress-free knowing in-country local support is available by regular phone or WhatsApp to support you during your tour.

Payments Made Easy

Enjoy the flexibility and ease of staggered payments in your own currency using your choice of credit card.

Route Resources

Route notes, maps, and/or a trail app make navigation on this tour a breeze.

Park Entrance Fees

Included where possible! Check the 'What's Included' tab for more info on park entrance fees during your tour.

Luggage transfers

Take a load off, with optional or included luggage transfers. Check inclusions for further details.

Accommodation for Lodge to Lodge Incas Trek in Peru

This trek is based in lodges with spectacular views. The rooms in the lodges are double.

In some cases, the accommodation listed below may need to be substituted for other comparable accommodations.

Single Rooms and Solo Travelers Standard rooms are of double occupancy and those willing to have single rooms will need to pay a supplement of $262 USD .

Anantapata Lodge

With llamas grazing outside and big mountain views outside your windows, you’ll feel like you’re in another world while you stay at this simple mountain lodge.

Huampococha Lodge

Rest up nestled in the Andes at this lodge. While you’ll want to enjoy the cozy rooms and hospitality, it’ll be hard to leave the windows with their gorgeous mountain views.

Hotels on Standard Tour

Planning a group trip?

Learn how we help group of friends, outdoor clubs and families get the tour they’ve been dreaming about.

Lodge to Lodge Incas Trek in Peru Tour Details

Overview for lodge to lodge incas trek in peru.

The Lodge to Lodge Incas Trek in Peru is an unforgettable three-day trek in the Vilcanota´s Cordillera of Peru on a route called the “Camino del Apu Ausangate.” This route takes you in close proximity to the highest Sacred Mountain in the Department of Cusco. The “Apu” is the Bearer of Life and Guardian of one of the most pristine mountain ecosystems in the world.

Your Peruvian lodge to lodge treks will be accompanied by llamas and horses that will carry your gear. These are owned by shepherds of the community of Chillca who are proud to share their land with you, as well as the spirit of their inspiring world. On your hikes and in our unique tambos, or Andean lodges, daily meals will be prepared by experienced chefs who will introduce you to a great variety of delicious Peruvian dishes and produce. At night after your hikes, you’ll enjoy authentic vernacular music played by locals and the chance to admire the stars over your mountain paradise.

The Camino del Apu Ausangate

This high Andean Trek in Uchullucllo, Cusco welcomes hikers into the surreal landscapes of the Cordillera Vilcanota. Far away from the crowds of the Inca Trail, this traditional and lesser-travelled route unfolds in a region sacred to the Incas and best known for Rainbow Mountain and Ausangate.

With several start and end points, this trail ranges in distance and duration. That being said, no matter how long you spend on this trail, you are guaranteed to experience world-class lodge-based trekking, stunning natural scenery, and fascinating authentic encounters with local communities.

Why Choose Lodge-to-Lodge Trekking in Peru?

Picture grazing llamas, luminous starry skies, and a horizon dominated by some of Peru’s most famous mountains. If this sounds like a place you’d like to retire after a day of epic trekking then a lodge-to-lodge trek in Peru is the trip for you.

Compared to camping or hotel-based trekking trips, a lodge-based trek grants you the opportunity to tuck down for the night, nestled in the Andes, while enjoying cozy rooms and warm hospitality. In short, you’ll get the full experience of being immersed in the natural landscape without sleeping outdoors.

Lodge-based trekking is the perfect answer for those looking for a one-of-a-kind experience in Peru’s majestic mountains while still holding on to some of those creature comforts.

Itinerary for Lodge to Lodge Incas Trek in Peru

Cusco to anantapata.

Early in the morning, you will leave Cusco on a bus ride along the lush Vilcanota River Valley and on to the town of Checacupe. After a visit to its Colonial Church of the Immaculate Conception, you’ll start ascending the Pitumarca Valley through the spectacular Japura Gorge that leads to Chillca. You will start the trek near the Ausangate Community, from which you will see the south face of the sacred Ausangate Mountain as you continue towards the red sandstone formations of the Nevado del Inca.

Anantapata to Huampococha

After breakfast, take the trail to another mountain pass. Dropping down, you’ll hike by Lake Kayrawiri, surrounded by rugged mountain peaks and the great valley below. Striations of colour are embedded in the hillsides. Then you will go on to Cerro Laya Grande via the massive Glacier del Inca, admiring the most striking colours in the sediments of Vinicunca (commonly known as the “Rainbow Mountain”). Eat lunch here in this unique landscape.

On your way to the next tambo, you will see hundreds of Andean geese nesting in the cliffs of Anta and the flatiron formations of Apu Labrayani near Huampococha Tambo, where you will spend the night at the Camino del Apu Ausangate.

Huampocochato- Cusco

After a last climb over the Anta Pass, you will gradually make your descent. In this section, the first crops and houses come into view. The landscape changes quickly as the red sandstone formations are followed by the carsten erosion of limestone, forming a one-of-a-kind stone forest, and a perfect habitat for “vizcacha” (members of the chinchilla family). By the time you get down the valley, your bus will be waiting for the return trip to Cusco.

Tour Highlights

Highlights for lodge to lodge incas trek in peru.

Snap photos of gorgeous glaciated mountains from your perch in the wide valley of Pampa Uyuni.

See Vinicuna, the iconic and instantly recognizable Rainbow Mountain.

Climb to passes at over 5000m of elevation, challenging your body and increasing your skills.

Rest up in authentic mountain tambos, the trekking lodges that serve hikers in this region.

What's Included

What's included for lodge to lodge incas trek in peru.

2 breakfasts, 2 lunches, 2 dinners, and snacks are included.

Transportation during the Tour

This tour includes private transport for you to Chillca and back to Cusco. It does not include flights to and from Peru. While on the trail, hikers will need to carry a daypack (camera equipment, water bottle, extra layers, rain gear, and other accessories you might need on the trail.) Horses and llamas will carry your duffle bag to the next lodge.

Also Included

• English-speaking guide
• Excursions mentioned in the itinerary
• Waterproof bags for the baggage carried by llamas
• First aid kit and oxygen

Not included

• Flights to and from Peru/Cusco, or any kind of transport before or after completion of the program
• Gratuities for tour guides or other staff if desired
• Travel insurance

Optional Extras

• Additional nights before or after the tour
• Single occupancy upgrades

Dates & Prices

Dates and prices for lodge to lodge incas trek in peru.

This guided lodge to lodge Incas Trek in Peru is always run as a private tour for your group only and the price per person depends on the number of people in your group.

Prices below are per person.

2024 Departures:

• Group of 2: $1,970 USD per person
• Group of 3: $1,510 USD per person
• Group of 4+: $1,240 USD per person

Accommodation

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Tour Booking Process

Booking process for lodge to lodge incas trek in peru.

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Frequently asked questions for Lodge to Lodge Incas Trek in Peru

How hard is the Lodge-Based Mountains of the Incas Trek?

We rate this tour as a 5/5. You will need to be able to hike 3-6 hours in high elevation conditions for consecutive days, and we recommend a preliminary 2-day acclimatization stage for your body prior to the trek if possible.

How can I prepare to hike at high elevation?

There are a few things you can do to make hiking at high elevation more comfortable: arrive at the tour starting point early for an initial acclimatization stage. The recommended length of this stage depends on the altitude you’re used to, but generally 2-3 days is recommended. Drink lots of water while hiking. If you start to experience a headache, nausea, dizziness, or confusion, let your guide know right away. They will be equipped to handle any signs of altitude sickness as required.

When is the best time to travel to Peru for this tour?

We recommend that you travel between April and November when the weather is most favourable for hiking.

Do I need a visa to travel to Peru?

Check with your local country about visa requirements. You could also try this website , though you should verify with your government.

Are meals included on the Lodge-Based Mountains of the Incas Trek?

2 breakfasts, 2 lunches, 2 dinners, and snacks along the way are included.

Do I need insurance?

Yes, it is mandatory to have health and medical insurance to join this trip, and your insurance should cover hiking. Get your Travel Insurance .

How do I get to Cusco to start this tour?

Fly into Alejandro Velasco Astete Cusco International Airport (CUZ) from where you will be taken up to Chillca.

Is the Lodge-Based Mountains of the Incas Trek in English?

Yes, the tour guide is English-speaking.

Where does the Lodge-Based Mountains of the Incas Trek end?

The trekking ends in Chillca from where you’ll be transported back to Cusco.

Do I need special vaccines to travel to Peru?

Check with your family doctor.

Are there any travel restrictions for Peru?

Please check with your local government about travel restrictions before you book your tour. This map from the US Department of State provides an overview of the current status in countries around the globe. The UK‘s Foreign Office and Government of Canada also provide advice on foreign travel. Note that the travel advice may change depending on your nationality.

Tour Difficulty

Difficulty for lodge to lodge incas trek in peru.

We rate this Lodge to Lodge Incas Trek as a 5/5. You will need to be able to hike 3-6 hours in high elevation conditions for consecutive days, and we recommend a preliminary 2-day acclimatization stage for your body prior to the trek if possible.

Read about our scale for Tour Difficulty Ratings.

This tour was made for you!

Start filling out your booking details. Once you submit your request, we'll review availability for this tour and contact you within 24 hours to further customize your perfect adventure.

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Southern Explorations

Let our travel experts customize a trip for you.

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This trip is rated: most difficult, how we rate our trips.

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Salkantay Lodge to Lodge Hiking Tour

If you've longed of hiking to Machu Picchu firsthand but roughing it isn't your idea of a vacation, you'll appreciate our Salkantay Mountain Lodges trip. This ten-day Machu Picchu Peru excursion combines hiking some of Peru’s most stunning trails with relaxing interludes at small mountain lodges set in picturesque surroundings with panoramic views. In this journey you will trek from 12,800ft to 6,900ft, traversing across magnificent mountain passes (15,213ft), enjoying enormous and mystical snow-capped peaks, seeing nature in its purest form and exploring more than 5 different ecosystems from the beginning to end. Of all the Machu Picchu tours to choose from, this one can't be beat, on or off the trail.  

Most Popular Peru Trips & Tours

After arriving in Lima Peru, you'll be transported from the airport to your hotel. If you have extra time to spend in the capital, optional Peru tours of the city, museums and other sights of interest may be arranged.

In the morning, you'll be taken to the airport for your flight to Cusco, center of the Inca Empire. Between the Cusco airport and your hotel, our guide will take you on a quick tour of the colonial Plaza de Armas. You'll be free the rest of the day to explore this fascinating city on your own and begin acclimatizing to the altitude of 10,856 feet. In the evening, you'll receive a briefing about your upcoming Machu Picchu trek. Spend another relaxing night at your hotel. (B)

After an early breakfast, your MLP guide and driver will pick you up at your hotel in Cusco. The first stop is a visit to the Quillarumiyoc archaeological site en route to the mountain village of Mollepata. Enjoy lunch at El Pedregal, a beautiful farmhouse in the village, where you will also have the opportunity to learn about local agriculture and livestock. After lunch comes a scenic ride on the winding mountain road to Challacancha. Here you will begin your hike to our flagship Salkantay Lodge at Soraypampa along a picturesque path called the “Camino Real” (Royal Path). You'll spend the rest of the day relaxing to get accustomed to the elevation. Around the fireplace, you'll have a briefing about the upcoming trek followed by an aperitif and dinner. Overnight at Salkantay Lodge (12,690’ / 3,869m). (B, L, D)  Trekking Time: Approximately 3 hours Hiking Level: Easy to Moderate

After breakfast, you begin an ascent up the slopes that border the plateau behind Salkantay Lodge*. An hour and a half later, your hard work will be rewarded with a first glimpse of the lake’s glistening turquoise waters and the Humantay glacier looming overhead. Upon arrival, you will have a chance to relax, enjoy a snack, meditate in the tranquility of this magical spot, and participate in a traditional ceremony to honor “Pachamama” (Mother Earth). After your descent back to the lodge, the Salkantay staff will be waiting with a hot lunch. Afternoon at leisure to relax, enjoy a massage, or soak in the outdoor hot tub for a spectacular view of the Salkantay Peak at sunset. Overnight at Salkantay Lodge. (B, L, D)  Trekking Time: Approximately 4 hours Hiking Level: Moderate

In the morning, you will be picked up at your hotel and taken to the airport for your return flight to Lima and your connecting international flight which ends Southern Explorations' services. If you have more time to spend in Peru, trip extensions to other regions or extra days in Lima or Cusco may be arranged. (B)  

Peru is a diverse country. With beaches, mountains, rainforest and desert, there is no off-season. But it does pay to know a bit about where you're going, and what you'll need on your Peru tour: The Andes - Though officially part of the dry season, April and May are considered the Andean spring, while June through October marks the Andean summer. Mid-day temperatures range from 70 to 80 F in the sun. Nighttime temperatures in Cusco range in the 40s F and can dip into the 30s F. Weather is usually clear in the morning with clouds accumulating in the afternoon. Rain can happen in any season, so quality rain gear is essential. The Amazon - A rainforest environment, the Peruvian Amazon has varied weather conditions and frequent unpredictable rain showers. It is generally hot and humid during the day with more comfortable temperatures through the night. Daytime high temperatures average between 82° and 93° F, and the average nighttime low is between 62° and 73°. Nevertheless, in some areas cold fronts can sweep into the Amazon and push daytime high temperatures down to 50° F and nighttime lows to 43° F. Any time of year, one should always be prepared for cooler temperatures and rain showers. Around 80% of the annual average 79 inches of rainfall occurs during the rainy season (December through March) when heavy rain may continue for hours or days. Year Round Temperatures in °F, Rainfall in Inches  

*Year Round Temperatures in °F, Rainfall in Inches  

*Year Round Temperatures in °F, Rainfall in Inches

Inca Trail Lodge to Lodge Hiking Tour

• First aid and oxygen bottle
• All airport/hotel transfers
• All hotel accommodations
• All listed activities
• English-speaking certified guides
• Entrance fees for all scheduled tours, national parks & archaeological sites
• Meals as indicated
• Southern Explorations pre-departure services
• Domestic airfare within South America
• International airfare to and from Central & South America
• Tips and gratuities
• Medical & travel insurance (highly recommended)
• Hiking boots and other necessary sports gear

I just wanted to say thank you for all the coordination and help you and all at Southern Explorations staff did for our trip to Peru. Everything went as planned, all of the accommodations were excellent,  clean comfortable and safe. The two young ladies that picked us up at the airport and took us back to the air port in Lima were so very helpful and nice. Our driver in Cusco, Boris did a great job helping and keeping us safe, great driver. I want to say a very special thank you to our guide Milagros. She is very special, extremely knowledgeable, attentive to the smallest detail, and just the best guide that we have ever had. Thank You for a great trip and memories that will last a lifetime! - David L. Byer (Experience Machu Picchu)

The Experience Machu Picchu journey was a once in a lifetime FAMILY trip!  It well exceeded our expectations.  It had just the right balance of organized excursions versus free time to explore on our own.  The guides were not only informative, but made the journey more enjoyable by their attitude and approach.  I can't say enough good things about Southern Explorations and this experience. - Pete & Jen Castello (Experience Machu Picchu)

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THE #1 TOUR OPERATOR OF PERU

Leading the Way in Sustainable Tourism and Community Projects in Peru

BOOK YOUR INCA TRAIL TO MACHU PICCHU 2024

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Travel confidently with Alpaca Expeditions, the only Peru tour operator with over 17,000 excellent reviews on Trip Advisor "LOCAL - INDIGENOUS - SUSTAINABLE"

As the #1 tour operator in Peru, Alpaca Expeditions prides ourselves on superior service to our clients, creating unique and memorable adventures all around Peru. We will tailor each package and tour to fit your needs, no matter if you are a family with young children or a bunch of friends seeking an adventure. We pride ourselves on being sustainable and responsible, committed to improving the lives of our team and their families with better wages and services. We welcome all to visit Peru and can’t wait to introduce you to the Inca traditions. Our home is your next adventure.

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Awards , Recognized as the Best Travel Agency in Peru

Trekkers Blogs  The best way to understand the experience of travelling with Alpaca is reading and watching what others have experienced with us.

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NEW and UNIQUE , 2022 add on will be the  cooking class  in all our camping treks , learn to cook under the stars and next to the mountains.

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Alpaca Expeditions differentiates itself from the rest in many aspects. hand in hand with its workers and collaborators.

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Empowering Women

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Our Inca Trail Porters First Visit to Machu Picchu

Queuña Trees

Free Medical Assistance to Porters

The Children of Huama Visit the South Valley in Cusco

Fixing the smiles of Choquekancha villagers

English Teacher in Llullucha Town

Empowering peru women and opening the door to women in tourism.

We understand the importance of extra safety measures to make sure our Peru Women Guides and Porters are comfortable at all times. Sexual harassment is real in all industries, but with women and men sleeping so close together, we needed to be clear on proper behavior. We decided to hire an outside coach to review with everyone on our team the Do’s and Don’ts. He helped to reinforce the rules we have at Alpaca Expeditions, like no drinking on the job (this leads to poor choices), no touching, careful language, be respectful to everyone. And a reminder that we are a team and we need to stick up for each other and ourselves.

ALPACA EXPEDITIONS & SUSTAINABLE TOURISM

The tourism industry is very important in Peru and it also has a great impact on a lot of families and the environment itself. Alpaca Expeditions is a sustainable tourism tour operator. We protect our land and environment at every tour and trek to preserve it for future generations. Alpaca Expeditions also retributes with the local communities with different social projects all along every year. We do our best to get back to our communities and also to make the best for our staff. We protect our land, our clients and our staff. Travelling responsibly is the new way to travel and we can make it happen for you!

What Our Clients Say In Tripadvisor

Alpaca expeditions recognitions, iso (international organization for standardization).

In the pursuit to stand out from the rest, Alpaca Expeditions has obtained four ISOs plus our carbon footprint certificate to date. These achievements result from our efforts to implement the internationally-recognized integrated management system. They also represent our commitment to all of our clients and staff of operating sustainability and responsibility in every way possible.

World Travel Awards

Alpaca Expeditions is internationally recognized as a leading tourism company in Peru. As proof, we have been awarded the World Travel Award for Peru´s Best Tour Operator 2021 for the second time.

TRIPADVISOR RECOGNITIONS

Our goal at Alpaca Expeditions is to create the best experience for all of our clients. We create journeys that are to be remembered for a lifetime. Journeys you can be proud of and can share with everybody around you.

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Hotel to Hotel service

Regarding the transportation provided by Alpaca Expeditions, we are committed to delivering a quality service. We strive to ensure that passengers feel supported throughout their journey. To achieve this, we coordinate closely with our guides and representatives to ensure timely pick-up at the start of their tours. Additionally, we have representatives responsible for escorting our passengers to their hotels at the conclusion of any tour.

Our drivers are not only trained in customer service but also come properly uniformed, and many are fluent in English.

Typically, all transportation types are included in each of our services. For instance, if you have booked a trekking tour, we will pick you up early, typically between 4 AM and 5 AM. When visiting Cusco, it's important to note that traffic here is generally moderate. However, there are peak traffic times, such as between 7 AM and 8 AM, which coincide with school hours, and in the evening between 6:00 PM and 8:00 PM. Therefore, if you have a flight during these times, it's crucial to be at the airport at least 2 hours in advance. The drivers of Alpaca Expeditions ensure their vehicles are prepared with all necessities before each service. They are acutely aware that delays can lead to missed trains, flights, or other connections. Consequently, they are always more than punctual, arriving at least 10 minutes before the scheduled time for any service, understanding the responsibility they carry in executing these tasks.

Personal Porter of 7KG

Remember that Alpaca Expeditions offers an extra 7 kg allowance for your personal belongings on any of our tours. We include a personal porter who is responsible for carrying your duffel bag without any additional fee. You will not have access to your duffel bag until you reach your evening campsite. The bag should not exceed 7 kg, which includes 4 kg for clothes and 3 kg for your sleeping bag and sleeping mat.

Each Alpaca Expeditions porter is paid directly after each trek, allowing them to return home more quickly. They receive better wages than our competitors, health insurance, and all their equipment free of charge, including hiking boots, pants, jerseys, fleeces, jackets, hats, flashlights, sleeping bags, and high-quality food. We ensure each of our porters has a comfortable bed in a pleasant room to sleep in before and after each trek. We also visit the communities they live in, providing toothpaste, toothbrushes, soap, and other necessary supplies to their families, along with books for their children.

This is just the beginning for us, and we are always looking for ways to do more. While the government allows each porter to carry up to 25 kg, we limit this to 20 kg to prioritize their health and safety. Each porter carries up to 15 kg of company equipment and 5 kg of personal items. This is why it is crucial to keep your personal duffel bag weight under our 7 kg limit. You might see other companies allowing their porters to carry more than the allotted weight, but at Alpaca Expeditions, we strictly adhere to these limits to ensure our porters' well-being.

Clases de Cocina

Alpaca Expeditions offers its passengers the chance to experience local cooking. We aim to immerse trekkers in Inca life by walking them through the original Inca paths and teaching them about Inca culture. Food is a significant part of Inca life, making it a special element in any tour or trek with Alpaca Expeditions.

In 2022, Alpaca Expeditions introduced a cooking class as part of each of our treks, conducted by our amazing trekking chefs and interpreted by our guides.

We will transform your dining tent into a makeshift kitchen, providing all the necessary supplies to prepare a Peruvian specialty. Your chef will guide you step by step through the process of making a traditional Peruvian meal, such as Lomo Saltado, and share some essential mountain cooking tips.

Peru is recognized as a top culinary destination, largely thanks to the popularity of our renowned beef dish, Lomo Saltado. This is most often the meal you will learn to cook, but there is also the opportunity to learn how to prepare other dishes like traditional Peruvian ceviche or even our signature drink, the pisco sour.

Cooking Class on the Inca Trail: These classes are voluntary and designed to be a fun, educational experience. Our clients consistently marvel at the amazing ability of our chefs to create culinary magic on a mountaintop. As you learn to prepare and cook Peruvian specialties, you will also see firsthand how such elaborate meals can be created on a small campsite stove.

Enjoy a cooking class in the mountains and be sure to take plenty of photos, just in case your friends won't believe your incredible experience.

Satellite Phones

The best way to hike in the mountains of Peru is to completely disconnect from technology, especially the internet and cell phones. The most impressive and exciting aspect is the opportunity to experience the true and wonderful nature that we often miss when we are at home, watching TV or absorbed in our cell phones during our leisure time. The feeling of being disconnected from work and the daily routine left at home is incredible.

However, this remoteness means limited access to emergency resources. That's why Alpaca Expeditions has invested in satellite phones for every trek.

We are prepared to assist you in case of any emergency, particularly health-related issues. For this reason, Alpaca Expeditions has invested in satellite phones, as they are one of the most crucial tools for any operator trekking in remote areas where telephone or television signals are absent. This means that every guide on our treks will be equipped with a fully charged satellite phone as well as radios. While these are primarily for emergencies, we allow our clients to use them at any time.

We ask that you cover the cost, which is $2.50 per minute. This fee can be paid in cash at our office or via PayPal once you have completed the trek.

Being just a phone call away from any doctor, hospital, or friend helps everyone feel assured of their safety. Radios, which all our guides carry, have limited reach, so Alpaca Expeditions includes satellite phones to ensure that we can connect no matter where we are on the mountain.

Portable private toilet

We understand that our clients will need restroom facilities at various times and locations during their journey. Along the Inca Trail, there are restrooms available, particularly those belonging to the communities near the trail. Alpaca Expeditions provides portable toilets to enhance this service, which will be set up at each meal site or campsite.

As with any mountain trip where we are exposed to nature, it is possible to use natural areas as restrooms. However, it is crucial to be mindful of the waste we generate, such as toilet paper or wet wipes used for cleaning. These should be carried with us and not discarded on the ground or left along the trail. Remember, the Inca Trail is a protected area overseen by a government institution. In places where garbage bins are unavailable, particularly at our camps, we provide special plastic bags for waste. Our porter team will be responsible for carrying out our waste.

Please be aware that although there are designated bathrooms for men and women, in practice, both genders often use the same facilities. Functionally, there is no significant difference between men's and women's bathrooms. Therefore, it is common for people of all genders to use whichever bathroom is available.

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Inca Trail to Machu Picchu

Stretching across a mere 42km, the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu unveils its wonders over a captivating four to five day journey. Discovered by American explorer, Hiram Bingham, in 1915, the trail is the pinnacle of any expedition through Peru.

The highest point of the Inca trail at Warmiwanusca , also known as Dead Woman's Pass, is 4,200m above sea level and the trek involves some steep ascents and descents crossing the deep Andean valleys. Despite being well established on the traveller's map, Machu Picchu does not disappoint and there is nothing like your first sight of this amazing ancient city perched on the ridge above the dramatic gorge of the Urubamba River.

Featured Holidays on the Inca Trail

The Inca Trail and Beyond

Enjoy an extended trek through the quiet Cordillera Vilcabamba before joining the 'Inca Trail' to Machu Picchu

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Luxury Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu

A luxury lodge trekking holiday through the Peruvian Andes to Machu Picchu

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Salkantay Trail to Machu Picchu

Trek the majestic Salkantay Trail towards Machu Picchu

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Ausangate Circuit and Machu Picchu

A complete trekking circuit of the Inca's sacred peak Nevado Ausangate (6732m)

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Choquequirao to Machu Picchu

Trek the alternative 'Inca Trail' to the lost city of Choquequirao

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Experience a once-in-a-lifetime walking holiday on the legendary Inca Trail to the iconic Machu Picchu

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Why trek the Inca Trail with KE Adventure

KE Adventure has been trekking the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu , to Cusco and the surrounding mountain ranges since 1997 when KE founder, Glenn Rowley, joined our inaugural group to complete the “Inca Trail and Beyond”. This trek has become a KE classic and is often listed by our staff as one of their "best ever" treks. In fact, Vanessa Douglas in our sales team took this trip as her honeymoon! 

With over 30 years’ experience of operating Inca Trail treks and tours around Cusco, we know how to make the best of your precious time to ensure that you trek the most beautiful trails and see the main sights at the right times and in the right order. Plus we offer “off-the-beaten-track” options! Once you arrive, you will be in great hands. Our Peruvian guides are the best in the business and will ensure you feel welcome and well taken care of. Camp standards on a KE Inca Trail trip are amongst the best in the world!

Highlights of the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu

Trek through dead woman's pass.

The highest point along the Inca Trail is called Warmiwanusca, also known as Dead Woman's Pass, and it stands tall at 4,200m above sea level. This pass has gained a fearsome reputation among hikers and everyone who embarks on an Inca Trail trek knows that the path will eventually take them up and over this infamous pass. Failing to cross it means not completing this iconic trek and having to return to Cusco without reaching Machu Picchu. To prepare for this challenge it is recommended that anyone planning to do the trek should get ready months in advance by completing other hikes, at lower altitudes, to build up their physical stamina.

Trek to the stunning Sun Gate

The Sun Gate, also known as Inti Punku, offers a beautiful panoramic view of Machu Picchu and is situated to the side of Machu Picchu Mountain. At an elevation of 2,720m above sea level, the trail leading to it is not as steep as the one to Machu Picchu Mountain even though they run parallel. During the Inca era, Inti Punku played a role as a checkpoint for people entering or exiting the fortress. Its considerable distance from the ruins has led many to speculate that it may have primarily catered to elite members of the Empire. The breathtaking view of Machu Picchu from the Sun Gate makes the two hour trek well worth the effort.

Why do you need to book your Inca Trail to Machu Picchu early?

Such is the popularity of the classic Inca Trail trek, the numbers of trekkers is controlled by the Peruvian government and permits are limited to 500 people per day.

Of these 500 permits, approximately 200 are allocated to tourists and 300 to porters, cooks and guides. Permits for the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu go on sale in January each year and are allocated on a first-come first-served basis.

Each year we see the permits sell out quicker than the year before with popular dates selling out immediately. For this reason we strongly recommend that you book one year in advance to be sure of a place. Learn more information on trips which require an  Inca Trail trekking permit .

Which Inca Trail holiday should I choose?

Although the “Inca Trail” is the classic way to reach Machu Picchu, there are thousands of Inca trails to Machu Picchu that criss-cross the Peruvian Andes presenting a wealth of choice in routes, terrain and difficulty for your walk to Machu Picchu.

Classic Inca Trail to Machu Picchu Trek

If time is precious and you really just want to trek the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, then we recommend the Inca Trail and Machu Picchu holiday. After 2 days acclimatizing in the colourful city of Cusco and the Sacred Valley of the Incas, you will head off onto the Inca Trail. Averaging 10kms of walking on each of the 4 days, you will be able to enjoy spectacular views of the snow-capped peaks of the Cordillera Vilcabamba.

Should you want a more challenging trek in the High Andes and a flavour of ancient Inca culture, the Choquequirao trek is your best bet. The ruins at Choquequirao rival Machu Picchu with more buildings and terraces being discovered each year. The 8 day alternative Inca Trail trek to the ‘Cradle of Gold' is via the Apurimac Canyon involving a descent and ascent of 2,000m. There is a day to explore the ruins before trekking out via the Cordillera Vilcabamba and the Totora Pass (4,500m) before descending to the Urubamba Valley and our final destination, Machu Picchu.

Inca Trail and Beyond

This is a long-time KE classic trek that includes the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu but adds much more to the experience. After acclimatizing in the ancient Inca capital of Cusco and the Sacred Valley, we begin a picturesque trek through the Silque Valley and over Ancascocha Pass (4,625m) before meeting up with the Inca Trail and following it to Machu Picchu. Starting the Inca Trail after 3 days of additional walking at altitude means we approach the trail fit and acclimatized and therefore better able to enjoy the stupendous views.

Salkantay trek to Machu Picchu

With quiet campsites and no permit complications, the Salkantay Trail provides a fantastic alternative to the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu. Passing close to Salkantay, the "Savage Mountain" of the Quechua people, this short trek ends at Intihuatana. From there we take the train to Machu Picchu for a full guided visit. Returning to Cusco, we travel south across the continental divide to Puno and spend a day exploring Lake Titicaca with a boat trip out to the amazing floating islands of the Uros people.

Luxury Salkantay Lodge trek

Want to trek the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu but in comfort? Then choose the Salkantay Trail. Staying in excellent hotels and luxurious mountain lodges, there are 6 days trekking up the Salkantay Valley in Peru's Cordillera Vilcabamba. This route is served by 4 lodges, each with tasteful twin-share en suite rooms and hot showers, log-burning stoves, hot tubs and great food. Highlights include the Salkantay Pass (4,683m) and the unusual view of Machu Picchu from the Llactapata Pass. Andean trekking in style!

More Information About the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu

The optimal periods for a Machu Picchu visit and Inca Trail hike are from late March to May and from September to mid-December. These months are situated just before and after the rainy season, ensuring decent weather and fewer crowds. However, the dry season from June to August is also an excellent option, albeit more popular and potentially crowded.

There are many routes on the Inca Trail, ranging from moderate difficulty to challenging. For the more difficult trips, a good level of fitness and trekking experience is expected.

To show the relative difficulty of our trekking holidays, each trip is graded on a scale of 1 to 12, with 12 being the most challenging.

Depending on the route taken, a trek along the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu can take between 8 and 14 days.

Trekking the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu involves going to high altitude. During the course of your trip you will reach altitudes in excess of 3,500m. This is not something that you should worry about; the human body is quite capable of adapting to a very wide range of altitudes but it is important that we follow some simple rules in order to acclimatise successfully.

The local currency in Peru is the sol. US Dollars are widely accepted in many establishments but are mainly used for expensive purchases.

It is recommended that you engage in regular exercise and hiking to maintain good fitness levels.

Visits to Machu Picchu are controlled by the Peruvian authorities and most tickets allow only a single entry to the site. One of the benefits of trekking the Inca Trail means that you arrive at Machu Picchu at the Sun Gate and descend through part of the site on the last day of the trek – your permit allows for this. A full visit to the site takes place on the following morning when you will take the bus from Aguas Calientes up the zigzag road to Machu Picchu for a visit that must be hosted only by an official Machu Picchu guide. So you get 2 visits!

This is the case for our Inca Trail and Beyond and Inca Trail and Machu Picchu holidays. Note that an early start is needed on the Machu Picchu visit day to allow enough time for boarding the bus and seeing the site. Generally our groups are able to spend 4 – 6 hours at the site before they need to descend to Aguas Calientes and take the trip back to Cusco. Generally our clients take the train from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo or Poroy before boarding a bus for the final journey back to Cusco. If you have trekked the Salkantay or Choquequirao Trails, your first view of Machu Picchu is from Llactapata and you will not enter the site at the end of your trek. However, you will have a full morning (with an early start) the following day to wander round and walk up to the Sun Gate should you wish. It’s a good idea to talk to your guide to explain what you want out of your visit to Machu Picchu so he or she can make the best decisions on planning the day for the entire group.

Of all the routes that KE offers, the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu is the one that involves the least trekking as we walk the trail in just 4 days. The trek does involve crossing high passes and descending into the deep Andean valleys so there is a significant amount of ascent and descent each day and the trek is a KE Grade 4. 

Such is the popularity of the classic Inca Trail, the numbers of trekkers is controlled by the Peruvian government and permits are limited to 500 people per day. This is for sound ecological reasons and means that the trails stay unspoiled and pristine. Of these 500 permits, approximately 200 are allocated to tourists and 300 to porters, cooks and guides. Permits go on sale in January each year and are allocated on a first-come first-served basis. Each year we see the permits sell out more quickly than the year before with popular dates selling out immediately.

For this reason we strongly recommend that you book one year in advance to be sure of a place. Once we receive your booking and your passport details, a member of our team in Cusco will collect your permit in person immediately so we are sure to have it for the day you will begin the trail. Note that the most popular months to trek the Inca Trail are May, June and July. If you are planning to travel at this time, please do make sure you make your plans well in advance to ensure you get the permit.

The quietest option is the most challenging one, the Choquequirao trek which is a Grade 8 trek. This trek is more remote from Cusco and involves more trekking, with longer and more sustained walking than our other Machu Picchu treks.

If this sounds too tough for you then it is worth considering the Salkantay Trail. This trek is a grade 5 and includes 5 days trekking around Mt Salkantay on a quieter trail that is notable for the variation in stunning landscapes along the way, from tropical cloud forest to the high Andes. This tour also includes a visit to Lake Titicaca, making for a perfect mix of walking and cultural exploration.

If you would like a bit more comfort then take a look at our Luxury Salkantay Lodge trek where you can chill out in the hot tub at the end of the day’s walk before retiring to the tasteful and well-appointed lodge for a 3 course dining extravaganza. If you would like to trek the Inca Trail but ALSO get off the beaten track, then choose the KE classic Inca Trail and Beyond trek. This trek includes 3 days walking across the Ancaschocha Pass beneath Mt Huanay before joining the Inca Trail. The Ancascocha Pass is stunning and of course everyone arrives fit and acclimatised when they join the Inca Trail for the ascent to Dead Woman’s Pass!

The beauty of group travel is trekking alongside a group of like-minded travellers with a wide range of ages, interests and abilities. Each day is planned to ensure there is plenty of time to take photographs, enjoy refreshment stops and take in the fantastic scenery. Although there is a certain distance to cover each day, a group holiday is not a “route march” so our leaders don’t expect everyone to walk at the same pace. At KE, we’ll ask you about your previous trekking experience to ensure you book on the right holiday and grade for you, it is your holiday after all!

If you would like to walk to Machu Picchu and want more of a challenge, or want to just spend more time hiking in the beautiful Andean mountains, the Choquequirao to Machu Picchu trek could be the one for you. With 9 days trekking, this is a more sustained trek in a remote area, further from Cusco and the Sacred Valley and is a KE Grade 8 trek.

There are several consecutive long trekking days, a couple of high pass crossings and a lot of accumulated ascent and descent as the trek traces through the deep canyons of the Apurimac and the Rio Blanco. The pay-off is quiet trails and a visit to the amazing ruins of Choquequirao, the so-called “Cradle of Gold”, a sacred Inca sight that has only recently been rediscovered and where more buildings are being exposed each year.

Water on the trail will be boiled by the crew for your drinking bottles. This will usually happen at breakfast, lunch and dinner so you can fill your bottles several times each day. We recommend taking 2 x 1 litre bottles so you can alternate them allowing the water to cool.

Wide-necked and durable plastic bottles such as those made by Nalgene are perfect for the job. If you prefer to trek with a Platypus or similar drink system or drinking bladder, we recommend bringing a Nalgene bottle along too. Our crews take care to boil the water for long periods of time so you can be assured that the water provided to you is safe and good to drink.

We usually employ a team of muleteers and their “arrieros” (mules) for transporting baggage on our treks in the Andes. However, pack animals are not allowed on the Inca Trail and all baggage must be carried by porters, generally Quechua people from villages in and around the Sacred Valley and a joy to be around. Each group trekking the trail is restricted to a maximum number of porters as designated by the park authority, another measure designed to minimise impact on the Inca Trail pathways and ecosystems.

As a result of this limit, unlike our other treks, we request that you limit the weight of your baggage for the trail itself to 8kgs. When you get to Cusco, you will be provided with a small duffle bag to use for the trek in which you must pack your sleeping bag and personal belongings needed for the 4 days trekking. 8kgs may sound like a small amount but as you will only be camping for 3 nights you should not need to take too many additional things with you. Your trip leader will give advice on what you really need to pack. Of course you can leave your main baggage safely at the group hotel in Cusco. On occasion, we are able to transport luggage to Aguas Calientes for use at the end of the trek – your guide will coordinate this.

Peru is an incredibly diverse country with a fantastic Pacific coastline, pristine rainforest, high altitude lakes and incredible mountain landscapes. South America is well-served by an excellent domestic flight service and it is very easy (and surprisingly economical) for us to “add on” internal flights to your international flight booking. Many of our clients travelling to Peru extend their holiday to include additional elements. Options include a visit to the Tambopata Reserve in the Amazonia region of Peru where the order of the day is spotting the Amazon’s top predators – Jaguar, Giant Otter, Black Caiman, Harpy Eagle and Anaconda.

It’s just a short hop on a plane from Lima or Cusco to Puerto Maldonado, the gateway to the rainforest. An alternative option is a visit to Lake Titicaca, the highest navigable lake in the world which sits at 3,800m on the border with Bolivia. A highlight of any visit here is a visit to the man-made floating reed islands of the Uros people. Taking the overland journey from Cusco to Lake Titicaca by train, aboard the luxurious Belmond Express train, is something everyone should do!

The Andes are a great place to see Andean Condors. If you really want to guarantee a sighting of these lords of the skies, visit Colca Canyon, one of the world’s deepest canyons and home to many of these enormous birds who come to ride the morning thermals every day. Stay in the lovely town of Arequipa that sits at the edge of the Altiplano in an area well known for its vibrant indigenous culture and local handicrafts. If you really want to push the boat out you can extend your stay to visit the Galapagos Islands, the islands famed as the most important in the natural world and a favourite of Charles Darwin. The Galapagos are part of Ecuador but it is very easy to fly from Lima to Quito, the Ecuadorean capital, from where you can journey out to these mystic islands.

Worldwide Adventure Holidays

We offer over 360 active adventures in 100 countries worldwide. Best known for our pioneering itineraries and challenging trips with an 'edge', we also offer a range of easier guided and self-guided walking, cycling, family and wildlife journeys throughout the world. Based in Keswick in the Lake District, we are passionate about creating unique travel experiences for our customers.

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Sky Lodge & Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu – 5D/4N

Journey through the land of the Inca Empire and explore the Sacred Valley as you hike, zipline, and experience an authentic “glamping” night at the famous Sky Lodge adventure suites in the heart of the Sacred Valley of the Incas .

Sleep like an adventure seeker in a capsule suspended from the side of a Peruvian mountain with full panoramic views like no other!

Experience a once-in-a-lifetime thrill when you stay at the first ever hanging lodge in the world where the guests are treated to amazing views overlooking the Sacred Valley and the Urubamba River before continuing the hike on the ancient Inca Trail pilgrimage to the Lost City of the Incas, Machu Picchu, a World Heritage Site and one of the  new 7 Wonders of the World .

Get ready for a unique Sky Lodge and Inca Trail journey to explore the treasures of Peru in a very short frame time!

Pre-trek briefing (required):  We provide a full pre-trek briefing at our office in Cusco. This gives you the chance to ask questions about the trek itinerary. Briefings are scheduled for the day before your trek starts.

Please take this into consideration when booking your travel plans to Cusco, to ensure you arrive in time for the briefing.

Day 1: Welcome to Cusco “The Old Capital of the Inca Empire”

An APT representative will meet you at the airport in Cusco and take you and your luggage to your hotel to rest. Later today, you might choose to relax and acclimatize to the altitude at the hotel or take a gentle stroll to the Plaza de Armas and the surrounding areas.

• Accommodation: Hotel in Cusco
• Highest Elevation: 3,400 m/11,154 ft
• Level of difficulty:  Easy

Day 2: Combine the Sacred Valley with a Unique Cliffside Pod Hotel

Venture into one of Peru’s most breathtaking places: the Sacred Valley, where you will explore the beautiful Peruvian Andes with a day tour. First, you will visit the historic town of Chinchero (3,762 m, 12,342 ft) and a site that presents exceptional expressions of stonemasonry in the midst of a town that keeps ancient traditions ancestral customs alive.

It was constructed by Tupac Inca Yupanqui around 1480 and consists of a collection of architectural spaces: pre-Columbian walls, enclosures, platforms, staircases and altars. The center of Chinchero is also unique because it mixes an archaeological complex within a town made from Inca foundations and walls.

Next, you’ll head to the fascinating circular ruins of Moray. While some think it was a landing pad for alien spaceships, it’s more likely is that the Incas built it as an experimental agricultural centre. Concentric circular terraces allowed them to simulate different facing slopes and different growing temperatures to see what crops would grow where.

Following Moray, we’ll venture deeper into the Urubamba valley to a precious gem that’s off the beaten path to the hordes of people visiting Machu Picchu every day: The Maras Salt mines, or salt evaporation ponds. A myriad of salt crusted terraces precariously nestle against the steep mountain sides, while a steady stream of mineral rich water trickles down with a silent gargling that somehow defies time.

The ponds have been in use since the Inca times and before, and they are what make Maras truly unique.

Finally, you will visit the impressive fortress of Ollantaytambo (2,792 m/9,160 ft). These magnificent ancient ruins provide a great vantage point over the Sacred Valley. Originally the royal estate of Emperor Pachacuti during the Inca Empire, this site later served as a stronghold for Manco Inca Yupanqui in the final resistance effort against the Spanish conquistadors.

You will stop for lunch on route to Ollantaytmbo (not included) at a buffet restaurant offering a variety of Peruvian and international foods near the town of Urubamba.

Your day will ultimately conclude at Pachar, a little community near the town of Ollantaytambo, where your cliffside pod hotel adventures begins! First, you’ll need to rock climb your way up the mountain cliff sky to the sky lodge inn and suites. While it might sound challenging (no experience is needed), the climbing up and down from the hotel is an experience itself!

To get up to the capsule-hotel, you will go through a via-ferrata, or a designated climbing path equipped with cables, stakes and embedded rungs. When you leave, you can either go back the way you came, or by ziplining! The views from the pods are incredible at night as well as in the daytime – they’re perfect for stargazing.

For dinner, you will enjoy a gourmet meal served in your panoramic hanging capsule. From within, you can admire the amazing view of the valley and the stunning night sky.

• Meals: Breakfast
• Accommodation: Sky Lodge
• Lowest elevation: 3,400 m/11,154 ft
• Highest elevation: 3,700 m/12,139 ft
• Tour duration: 5-6 hours
• Difficulty: Moderate

Day 3: Sky Lodge Adventures – Ollantaytambo and Inca Trail

Enjoy a delicious coffee this morning before breakfast while enjoying the wonderful view.

After breakfast, we’ll reach the top of the circuit where we start the exciting zip-lining downhill from one line to another for about 2 hours. Once that adventure concludes and we reach the bottom of the valley, we’ll head to Ollantaytambo, where your 2-day, 1-night Short Inca Trail journey begins. We’ll take the train from Ollantaytambo to KM 104, where the Inca Trail starts.

The valley turns into a canyon and the scenery begins to change as the cloud forests appear on our approach to the city of Machu Picchu. We will disembark the train at Km 104 and start the hike along a challenging 3-hour uphill trail. This trek is short and manageable.

The ancient Inca Trail takes us uphill all the way to the magnificent archaeological Inca site of Wiñay Wayna, a Quechua name meaning “forever young.” This ruin is built into a steep hillside overlooking the Urubamba River and valley, and it consists of upper and lower housing complexes connected by a staircase and fountain structures.

Above and below the houses, the man-made agricultural terraces are still visible today. Wiñay Wayna will be also the perfect spot to enjoy our delicious boxed lunch, with incredible views of the massive green mountains and orchids.

After lunch, the trail gets a little easier and continues all the way to the famous Sun Gate (2,720 m / 8,920 ft), where we arrive at Machu Picchu through its real main entrance. Here, we will have our first glimpse of the marvelous city.

We’ll take the bus down to the town of Aguas Calientes (2,040 m / 6,691 ft), where you will check into your hotel. Dinner will be at a great local restaurant in town (drinks not included).

• Meals: Breakfast/Box Lunch/Dinner
• Accommodation: Hotel
• Lowest Elevation: 2,040 m / 6,691 ft
• Highest Elevation: 2,720 m / 8,920 ft
• Distance to walk: 13 km/8 miles
• Approximate walking time: 6-8 hours
• Difficulty:  Moderate 

Day 4: Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu tour and return to Cusco

We will catch an early bus up to the magnificent city of Machu Picchu to enjoy the city at a quieter time of day when there are fewer people. After the 25-minute bus ride (2,430 m/7,972 ft), your expert tour guide will lead you in a walking tour of Machu Picchu. The guided tour has an average duration of 2 hours.

Afterward, you will still have some time to explore other places you did not see with your guide. If you think you’ll want an additional uphill challenge, you have the option to climb the mountain of Huayna Picchu as well. (Huayna Picchu reservations need to be made in advance and are not included in the trek price.)

At the end of your visit, you will take the bus down to Aguas Calientes for lunch and then board the train to Ollantaytambo. On arrival, you will be met by private transport and you’ll return to your hotel in Cusco (2-hour drive).

• Accommodations: Hotel
• Lowest Elevation: 2,040 m/6,691 ft
• Highest Elevation: 2,430 m/7,972 ft
• Difficulty:  Easy

Day 5: Departure from Cusco

After breakfast at your hotel, one of our representatives will meet you at your hotel and take you to the airport for your journey home or on to your next destination.

• Meal: Breakfast

Note:  This itinerary is subject to change without prior notice according to weather conditions, strikes, roadblocks, or other events which are beyond our control. At Action Treks Peru we will always do our best to follow the itinerary as closely as possible.

• Professional English-speaking guide. Additional guide for groups over 8 people
• Pre-Inca Trail briefing
• Transport from airport to Cusco hotel
• Transport to the airport or bus station at the end of the tour
• Admission fees to all the visited sites in the Sacred Valley tour.
• Transportation from the Sky Lodge hotel to Ollantaytambo train station
• Expedition train from Ollantaytambo to KM 104
• Bus ticket from Machu Picchu to Aguas Calientes on day 1 of the Short Inca Trail trip. Round trip bus ticket from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu on day 2 of the Short Inca Trail trip.
• Return Expedition train from Aguas Calientes to either Poroy or Ollantaytambo.
• Transport by private vehicle from Ollantaytambo or Poroy train station to Cusco.
• Admission Ticket to the Inca Trail and Machu Picchu Archaeological site.
• 1 box lunch on the Short Inca Trail
• 1 dinner in Aguas Calientes and 1 dinner at the Sky Lodge
• 3 breakfast at all hotels
• 2 nights accommodation in a nice and comfortable hotel in Cusco city (double occupancy)
• 1 night accommodation at the cliffside pod hotel in the Sacred Valley (double occupancy)
• 1 night accommodation in a nice and comfortable hotel in Aguas Calientes (double occupancy)
• Private guided walking tour of Machu Picchu and all the visited sites associated with our package.
• First-aid kit including emergency oxygen tank for all tours

NOT Included

• Airport taxes
• Hiking poles for the Short Inca Trail
• Meals (unless they are specified in the tour itinerary)
• Tip for your staff
• Huayna Picchu Mountain permit
• Travel Insurance ( highly recommended)

PRICES & ADD-ONS

Group: usd $1160 per person private: usd $1260 per person.

• Hiking poles for the trek – USD $10 (pair) per person

Train Upgrades

• Vistadome return train – USD $60 per person
• Return Hiram Bingham train – USD $420 per person

Hotel at Machu Picchu

• Sumaq Machu Picchu hotel (5-star hotel) – USD $255 per person per night (double occupancy)
• Tierra Viva Machu Picchu (3+ star hotel) – USD $50 per person per night (double occupancy)

What to bring:

• Original passport (if you have acquired a new one after you made your booking, bring both)
• Clothes (trekking boots, warm fleece jacket, a few t-shirts, socks, sun hat, warm underwear, light long pants, gloves, rain jacket)
• Toiletries (toilet paper, wet wipes, personal towel)
• Sunscreen SPF 35+ recommended
• Camera with spare batteries (batteries run down faster at high altitudes)
• Book to read (you will have some spare time at every camp to read your favorite book)
• Trekking poles (recommended especially for the steep descents, but poles can be rented from us)
• Insect repellent

SHORT INCA TRAIL PRICE & ADD-ONS

Group: USD $500 per person Private: USD $560 per person

Group versus Private Treks: What’s the difference?

• Depending on the number of people in your booking, additional people may join the trek to make a full group.
• If you choose “private”, no additional people will be joining your group, no matter the size.
• Minimum booking size is two people; one person may book a group trek if Action Peru Treks is able to join that person with additional groups.
• Under 18 years Discount: USD $20
• Under 7 years Discount: USD $35
• Hiking poles – USD $10 (pair)
• Return Vistadome train – USD $60 per person
• Return Hiram Bingham train– USD $420 per person
• Sumaq Machu Picchu Hotel (5-star hotel) – USD $255 Per person per night (double occupancy)
• El Mapi Hotel by Inkaterra (4 star hotel) – USD $115 Per person per night (double occupancy)
• Tierra viva Machu Picchu (3+ star hotel) – USD $50 Per person per night (double occupancy)
• Single Hotel Room in Aguas Calientes – USD $45 per person

SHOR INCA TRAIL  2024 FAQs.

What is the Short Inca Trail trek to Machu Picchu?

This Inca Trail is ideal for travelers who have limited time or want something less strenuous.

This hike starts at KM 104 of the Machu Picchu train line on a trail that leads to two archaeological sites Chachabamba and Wiñay Wayna. This hike also gives you the opportunity to enter the lost city via the famous Sun Gate, the dramatic entrance that provides Inca Trail trekkers with their first glimpse of the site.

Spend the night in Aguas Calientes and then wake up on Day 2 for a Machu Picchu tour.

Note also that we offer a Short Inca Trail with Camping if you would like to spend the night in a tent rather than in a hotel.

Why Hiking the Short Inca Trail is so popular?

The Trail is a microcosm; lush green cloud forest alive with birds, Andean peaks and steep mountain passes, a landscape dotted with centuries old Inca ruins, accessible only to those that follow this most famous pathway.

However, as truly beautiful as the hike may be, the real reason for its popularity lies at the very end of this four-day adventure; passing through the famous Sun Gate for that first magical sighting of Machu Picchu in the distance.

Only Inca Trail hikers can access the gate early in the morning, and it is this crescendo, at one of the new seven wonders of the world which makes this hike a feature on so many ‘South America bucket lists’.

The Inca Trail is the best way to arrive at one of the world’s most iconic attractions.

What does this 2 day Inca Trail involve?

The Inca Trail involves an early bus and train ride from Cusco, followed by a three-four-hour uphill hike to the spectacular Inca site of Wiñay Wayna.

From there, you have a packed lunch before continuing for around two hours to reach the iconic Sun Gate where you get your first glimpse of Machu Picchu.

The trail then descends for about 45 minutes to reach the ruins. Rather than visiting Machu Picchu straight away, you take a bus to the nearby town of Aguas Calientes where you spend the night in a hotel, then return to the ruins the following morning for a guided tour.

In the afternoon of the second day, take the train and vehicle back to Cusco, arriving in the evening around 8 PM.

How far in advance should I reserve my permit for the Inca Trail?

Everyone should book their Inca Trail permit as far in advance as possible. The Inca trail permits are in super high demand as they do offer access to one of the top hiking trails on the planet!

It’s very common that permits for certain months of the year to sell out completely for the upcoming season in just a matter of days or hours.

On top of that, permits are non-refundable or transferable, so if any hikers who have purchased permits subsequently cancel them, they won’t become available again at a later date in the government system.

The Peruvian government releases all the permits in bulk throughout the month of October for the upcoming year.

For example, for a hike in 2024, you can expect permits to be released in October 2023.

The best way to ensure you’re in the running for your chosen trek date is to have your Inca Trail pre-booked for the upcoming year before the permits are released in October 2023.

A general rule to follow is to book permits for the Inca Trail at least six to eight months in advance to ensure trail availability for treks on the Inca Trail route.

How many Inca Trail permits are issued per day?

There are now 250 Inca Trail permits are available each day, around 50 of those are allocated to porters and guides, so in reality there are really only 200 permits a day for hikers.

These 250 permits were recently added by the Peruvian government for sole use on the Short Trail to Machu Picchu.

The two and one night Inca Trail to Machu Picchu is essentially the final day of the Classic Inca Trail route with some variations in the beginning of the hike.

Note: Once the permit has been issued, you can not alter or change any details, so be sure you get them correct from the start.

Does the Inca Trail trip include your Machu Picchu entrance ticket?

Yep, the cost of Machu Picchu entry is included in the trip price and it’s the responsibility of us to take care of all that and provide you with the ticket on the day you’re entering the site.

Is there a waiting list for sold out trekking dates?

No, there is no waiting list for permits. Permits are only available for purchase through the Peruvian government. Once a permit is purchased for one person, the permit cannot be refundable or transferred to another individual.

Is it possible to do without a tour company or guide?

Since June 2002 trekking independently on the Inca Trail has been prohibited. Access to the Inca Trail is strictly controlled by the Peruvian government and your trek must be organized through a tour operator.

Only specific licensed companies like Action Peru Treks are permitted to lead groups on the 5-day Inca Trail, 4-day Inca Trail and 2-day Inca Trail routes.

Companies must meet certain basic requirements proving that they have professional guides and good camping equipment, radio communications and emergency first aid including oxygen. Their license is renewed each year.

Is it possible to enter with different name?

No, you need to carry your valid ID (passport) to enter the trek park.

What is the 2 day Short Inca Trail Difficulty?

It’s a lot of hiking to cover in a day, and at high altitude, but it is achievable if you have a good level of fitness.

There will always be slower and faster hikers in your group but your guide will adjust his or her walking pace to make sure that everyone in your group is happy. The toughest part of the day is the three-hour walk uphill at the start, climbing rapidly from the Urubamba River to the Wiñay Wayna ruins. The Short Inca Trail may not be suitable for those who suffer from vertigo.

Before you start your trip, we recommend you arrive to Cusco at least two days in advance to help your body acclimate to the high altitude.

What do I need to carry on this Inca Trail to Machu Picchu trek?

Travelers should carry only a small daypack with the items that they will need while hiking such as water, snacks, camera and film.

Our team will ship 6 kg of each of your personal extra gear to your Aguas Calientes hotel during the trip for free.

We generally ask clients to bring only the necessary items that you will need for the 2-day trip and leave any unneeded luggage at the hotel in Cusco or at our office in Cusco.

How big are the groups?

Our groups are usually small. Average is 3 to 5 people and maximum 16 people plus the trekking team.

Is there an age limit to hiking the Inca Trail?

Nope! we trust that you will gauge your own fitness levels when it comes to taking a trek of this nature. We have clients who are in their 80s that are fitter than many 30-year-olds.

Age is just a number if you are fit enough to do the trip, go for it! Children under 6 years old should not attempt to hike as they would likely find the trek too difficult.

What is the best time of year to hike the Inca Trail?

From April to October, it is usually warm and humid during the day (around 20-25ºC) and night time temperatures are around 15ºC.

The dry season lasts from May to September, when the weather is more changeable.

During the wet season, from October to April, it can rain heavily, although it can also rain year-round.

Is the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu always open?

The Inca Trail is open 11 months of the year (March through January). It is closed every February for maintenance.

Are there toilets along the two day Inca Trail route?

Yes, there is one toilet at the start of the hike, halfway and at the end of the hike (Machu Picchu).

The first two toilets are free and the one by Machu Picchu has a cost of 2 soles.

What altitude does it reach?

The Short Inca Trail starts at 2,170 m / 7,170 ft and ascends to 2,720 m / 8,920 ft the Sun Gate, before descending to Machu Picchu which sits at an altitude of 2,040 m/6,691 ft.

The guides carry basic medical supplies, but as you will be in remote mountain areas, more advanced medical facilities are not available.

What is the food like on the 2 day Inca Trail?

A packed lunch is provided by us for the hike and this must be carried by yourself during the hike.

If you want other snacks during the trail, these can be bought in Cusco.Breakfast on the second day is included at the hotel in Aguas Calientes.

Breakfast on day one and lunch on day two are not included in this trip. For breakfast on day one, you will need to request a box breakfast from your Cusco hotel.

Lunch on the second day can be bought in a restaurant in Aguas Calientes before taking the return train to Cusco.

Vegetarian and vegan meals are also available upon request.

Other special dietary requests can usually be accommodated as well with sufficient notice.

Is drinking water supplied along the Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu?

Nope, you must bring your own dirking water for hiking our short Inca Trail 1 day hike and we recommend you bring at least 2 liters per person which will cover the hike of day one.

You can buy water in Aguas Calientes for your Machu Picchu visit on day two of the trip.

Note: there aren’t places to buy water along the hike so you must purchase your drinking water in Ollantaytambo or in Cusco before taking the train to the start of the hike.

What are the guides like?

Our team are among the very best and most experienced guides anywhere.

They are from the surrounding Cusco and the Sacred Valley areas and speak fluent English, in addition to Spanish and the Inca indigenous language of Quechua. Most have 8-10 years of experience leading Inca trail hikes and other alternative treks and all have training in the history, spirituality, culture, and ecology of the area.

How can I prepare for the Inca Trail?

The more training you do beforehand, the more you will enjoy your trek.

We recommend 30 minutes of cardio activities 3-4 times a week in the 2-3 months leading up to your departure. Take every opportunity to walk up and down stairs or hills for leg strengthening and aerobic fitness.

Are there any ATMs?

There are no ATMs along the Inca Trail. You should bring enough money with you from Cusco for any last-minute purchases before starting the hike or tips.

There are some ATMs in Aguas Calientes if you need to withdraw additional cash.

What if I have a medical emergency while hiking the Inca Trail?

Guides carry a first aid kit for basic medical problems (traveler’s diarrhea, cuts/scrapes, etc.).

They receive Red Cross First Aid and other emergency training every year. Our guides lead over 1000 travelers along the Inca trail each year and we have rarely had a traveler unable to complete the hike.

In these rare instances when someone has not felt well enough to finish the hike, he/ she has been escorted back to the start of the hike and generally felt well enough to re-join the group in Aguas Calientes via train later in the day.

Aguas Calientes has the nearest modern medical facilities so travelers with a serious medical emergency would need to be evacuated there. Guides and porters have pre-established evacuation strategies in place should this need occur.

Is there internet access on the Inca Trail?

Nope, your last chance to use the internet or have a reliable phone signal will be in Ollantaytambo train station and your first opportunity will be at Machu Picchu or in Aguas Calientes.

How much money should you bring on the Inca Trail trek?

The vast majority of costs will be covered in the up-front price of your trip, but there are a few costs along the trip for which you’ll need to bring cash:

• Snacks and drinks from stallholders in the train station of Ollantaytambo
• Toilet entry fees (usually 2 soles at Machu Picchu)
• Tips for your guides
• Breakfast on day 1 and Lunch on day 2 at Aguas Calientes.

It’s sensible to take this money in the form of smaller notes and coins.

We’d say at least 250 soles per person for the Trail-specific section.

Will I get altitude sickness on the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu?

Many of the most popular places in Peru, such as Cusco and Huaraz, are at high altitude; this means that for anyone planning a trip to Peru understanding altitude sickness (and how to avoid it) is incredibly important.

In fact, not approaching altitude correctly is one of the biggest mistakes of travelers in South America.

The best way to minimize the likelihood and impact of altitude sickness is factoring in enough time into your Peru itinerary to acclimatize to the conditions.

This means that it is incredibly foolish to arrive in Cusco, which is at 3,339m (11,151 feet) above sea-level, and leave the next day to do a strenuous hike or even start the Inca Trail. Your body needs the time to adjust to the altitude!

A good rule of thumb is to give yourself and your body two easy days at altitude to acclimatize to the change, and to keep yourself well hydrated throughout.

What about medication?

Obviously, medical attention and facilities along the Inca Trail are pretty much non-existent so you need to bring any of your own required medication with you and keep it on your own person or in the daypack.

What climates can I expect on the Short Inca Trail?

Variance in latitude, elevation and local winds all factor into the wide range of climates experienced in the central Sierra/Andean Mountain region. Average temperatures in the Sierra vary little between seasons, but there is dramatic daily variance.

While the average daily temperature may only vary a few degrees Celsius between January and July, the diurnal (daily) temperature range is often huge.

You can expect daytime temperatures in the highlands to be in the range of 15-25°C (60 – 77 °F), falling as low as 10 °C (50°F) at night.

How much time can I spend at the Machu Picchu sanctuary?

There are three time slots in which patrons can enter Machu Picchu for a maximum of four hours and must follow one of three predetermined routes. Admission is not allowed after 4pm.

Additionally, all visitors must always be accompanied by a guide.

The early morning is one of the best times to savour the views and atmosphere of Machu Picchu.

The mystical morning light over the enigmatic sites is spectacular. Try and catch the sunrise at the sanctuary, you won’t regret the early wakeup call!

AVAILABLE ADD-ONS

• Return Vistadome train -USD $60 for trip from Aguas Calientes to either Ollantaytambo or Poroy
• Return Hiram Bingham train -USD $420 for trip from Aguas Calientes to either Ollantaytambo or Poroy
• Private hotel room for single travelers – USD $45 per person.
• Buffet lunch at the Tinkuy restaurant in the Belmond Sanctuary Lodge in Machu Picchu – USD $50 per person
• Day 1: Arrival to Cusco
• Day 2:  Sacred Valley and Sky Lodge
• Day 3: Ollantaytambo and start of the Iconic Inca Trail
• Day 4: Aguas Calientes and Machu Picchu Tour; return to Cusco
• Day 5: Depart Cusco

INQUIRE ABOUT THIS EXPERIENCE

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Please give at least two alternative start dates in order of preference. Write none if there are no other dates available for you

Any Dietary Restrictions?

Do you want to hike Huayna Picchu? Yes No - FAQ about Huayna Picchu

Is anyone in your group 17 or under?, If you answer yes, we need a copy of their passport. Please e mail to [email protected] Yes No

Trekker Details: Name as written on passport, Passport Number, Date of Birth and Nationality. Please list Full Names (as written on passport), Passport Number, Nationality, Dates of Birth and Gender for all in your party

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Additional Details

Life on the Trail: Your Safety on Peruvian Adventures

Food on our Treks

Inca Trail vs. The Salkantay Trek: Deciding Which One is Right For You

Trekking the Inca Trail with Children in 2024

Usefull Information

Stay connected.

• Cusco, Peru – Postal Code: 08000
• +51 961 504 002 – Peru
• [email protected]
• +51 961 504 002
• ACTIONPERUTREKS

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• Trip Styles
• Destinations

• Trip Destinations
• Peru Hiking Tours
• Guided Hikes to Machu Picchu

Inca Trail Trek Extended Package

Cusco, peru, trip highlights.

• Most Iconic Hike to Machu Picchu
• All-inclusive Acclimatization Package
• Pre-trek & Post-trek Accommodations
• Fascinating Cultural History
• Stunning Mountain Scenery
• Private Machu Picchu Tour
• Fantastic Peruvian Cuisine
• Top Elevation of ~14,000 Feet
• Premier Camping Accommodations

Description

This extended version of our classic Inca Trail trek includes pre-trek and post-trek amenities, airport pick-up and drop-off, and wonderful acclimatization activities so you can focus 100% on enjoying Peru (see  classic version ). After acclimatizing, we will hike the entire Inca Trail, which combines snow-capped mountains, lush cloud forests, subtropical jungle, and a magnificent mix of Inca ruins to justify its status as one of the world’s most famous adventures!

Wildland Trekking’s Inca Trail to Machu Picchu Trek gives you the ability to enjoy our premier camping accommodations; to hike with light day packs as porters transport the bulk of gear and food; to enjoy wonderful Peruvian cuisine prepared by our outdoor chef; to access safe drinking water for the duration of the trip; and most importantly to fully maximize your Peruvian adventure .

2024 Note: After the wide-spread protests Peru experienced in early 2023, the political situation has fully stabilized. However, visitation to the country has yet to rebound, offering guests a rare opportunity to hike the Inca Trail, visit Machu Picchu or explore other parts of Peru without crowds. Join us in 2024 for a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to discover the wonders of Peru like it was decades ago!

Inca Trail Registration Process

Peru begins offering permits for the Inca Trail ( does not include the Short Inca Trail Lodge-based Tour ) at different times each year, but normally between October 1 and December 15 for the following year. We secure Inca Trail permits for our registered guests the first day they become available and cannot guarantee specific dates until they are secured.

To secure spots on a permit, we must have verified, registered guests , so we strongly recommending registering before October 1 of the year prior to your intended trip. We have a high success rate with securing permits, but if unsuccessful, we offer a full transfer or refund of your deposit.

Feel free to call us at 800-715-HIKE (4453) with any questions about the Inca Trail permit process.

$3950 Per Person

$260 single supplement.

DIFFICULTY LEVEL 3

Scale of 1-5. 1 is least difficult; 5 is most difficult

Hiking Distances:

Backpack Weight:

Lightly Rugged

Max Daily Elev. ↑↓:

Up to 4,000 ft

Heights Exposure:

Please Note: Terrain, Elevation Gain and Heights Exposure ratings reflect the section or day of the trip with the maximum difficulty of each. Much of the trip is at easier levels. See the trip itinerary for more detailed information.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS OF THIS TRIP

• Hiking uphill or downhill with a 10-20 lb backpack for 6-8 hours
• Maintaining balance and footing on variable, uneven terrain
• Hiking at elevations of 13,800 feet
• Hiking with occasional, light heights exposure

SOLITUDE LEVEL 2

1 least solitude, 5 most solitude

We rate this Peru hike a solitude 2. You can expect to have as much as an hour of solitude at a time while hiking.

•   Peru Day Hikes Near Cusco!

Make the most of your time in Peru with an  add-on day hike around Cusco ! Explore a stunning alpine lake with amazing turquoise water ( Lake Humantay ); or one of the most unique and breathtaking mountains in the world with rainbow-colored soils that make for spectacular photography ( Rainbow Mountain ).

Private Trips

Travel in perfect company by booking a private trip exclusively for your group!

Our sliding scale for private trips is based on the final number of guests in your group. Rates are per person and do not include sales tax, national park fees or guide gratuity. The final rate is based on the actual number of guests on the trip and may adjust based on cancellations or additions.

Please Note: you can also enjoy a private trip at our normal scheduled rates by filling any empty tour to capacity. However, if group members drop from the tour those spots will automatically become available on our website for instant booking. By purchasing a private trip at the rates listed below, your trip will remain exclusive to your group regardless of cancellations. 

Private Rates FOr This Trip

• 2 People: Rate x 2.5
• 3 People: Rate x 2
• 4-5 People: Rate x 1.5
• 6-10 People: Rate x 1.15
• 11-12 People: Rate x 1
• 13+ people: contact us for availability and pricing

*all rates are per person and single supplements apply

•  Minimum Guests

Minimum Guests

We require a minimum of 2 guests to confirm this trip. If a trip date is not confirmed yet, you can register and will be notified when the trip is officially confirmed. We recommend not making final travel arrangements until your trip meets the minimum number of guests and is confirmed.

In most cases, if a trip does not reach the minimum number of guests, you may choose to transfer to another trip date or another trip, or be refunded your payments in full. We make the final determination for these trips 65-60 days before the departure date.

Learn About Our Private Trips

On this  hiking tour to Machu Picchu we will pick you up from the airport in Cusco, Peru. We will drive to our hotel, have showers and meet for our orientation meeting to get acquainted with our group, itinerary, gear for the trek, etc. After our orientation meeting, we will go to our favorite, local Peruvian restaurant for dinner. Be sure to drink copious amounts of water throughout today, as flying and traveling will certainly dehydrate you. Cusco is over 11,000 feet in elevation and being hydrated (lots of water and limiting alcohol) is a critical component of dealing with significant elevation changes. Self-care begins immediately.

This morning we will enjoy our first Peruvian breakfast in Cusco. After breakfast, we will meet for our educational and historical visit to the ruin of Saksaywaman, an ancient cathedral in Cusco, and the Qoricancha (Sun Temple). For lunch we will meet our chef for the week and enjoy the organic and local foods of Cusco. After the tour, we have some free time to relax before dinner. At dinner your guides will provide the plan for the following day and answer any last minute questions.

This morning will serve as an additional acclimatization and rest day. We will sleep in and regain strength from the international flights, meeting today after breakfast. Our first stop of the day will take us to the village of Chinchero, where we will visit a cooperative weaving center. The Chincherinas (local women) will show us the process of weaving beautiful blankets, dying with colors and making clothes.

Next, we will head towards salt mines / Salineras that date back over 2,000 years with over 3,000 salt pools carved into the mountain side. After the Salineras visit, we will go to an amazing lunch spot with phenomenal mountain views. After lunch we will move on to the fascinating terraces of Moray, once used for agricultural experimentation by the Incas. After Moray we will head back to Cusco and enjoy free time until we meet for dinner at our favorite restaurant. Your guides will deliver the plan for the following day.

• Hiking Mileage: 7.5 miles (12.1 km)
• Elevation Gain: 1,476 feet (450 m)
• Elevation Loss: 492 feet (150 m)
• Highest Elevation: 10,168 feet (3,100 m)
• Trekking Duration: 7-8 hours
• Accommodations: Premier Camping

Today we will wake up early and enjoy breakfast before departing from our hotel in Cusco. We will travel roughly 3 hours to Piscacucho (also known as Km 82), our starting point on the Inca trail. Our hike starts in a high desert forest with views of Waqayhillca (Nevada Veronica), the highest mountain in the Urubamba mountain range. After a couple of hours of hiking and a stop for lunch, we will enter the Cusichaca valley where the flora transitions to jungle. In addition, we will travel to the Incan ruins of Patallaqta and view the ruins of Q’anabamba and Willkarakay from afar, which our in-country guide will explain the significance. We can expect to arrive at our first camp (10,168′) by 4 pm, allowing time to rehydrate and rest until our delicious dinner is served by our chefs at 7pm.

• Hiking Mileage: 7 miles (11.3 km)
• Elevation Gain: 3,937 feet (1,200 m)
• Elevation Loss: 2,133 feet (650 m)
• Highest Elevation: 13,779 feet (4,200 m)

Waking up in the mountains of Peru with Wildland Trekking means getting a hot drink of your choice delivered to your tent and a warm bowl of water to wash your hands and face; what a way to start the day! Next we’ll enjoy a scrumptious Peruvian breakfast, prepared by our chef, before setting out for our day’s hike. For many of our guests, this portion of the trek is considered the most challenging of the trip, so we will begin a little earlier, around 7 am. The first two hours of today’s trek wind through high altitude jungle, a cloud forest and grasslands before reaching Dead Woman’s Pass at Wamiwanusqa (13,779′). We will then descend for roughly 2 hours to our camp at Paqaymayo (11,646′) have time to rest before another delicious dinner. From the vantage of this stunning camp, we can witness clouds creeping up the valley, as we relax over a wonderful Peruvian dinner.

• Hiking Mileage: 6.2 miles (10 km)
• Elevation Gain: 1,444 feet (440 m)
• Elevation Loss: 1,148 feet (350 m)
• Highest Elevation: 12,959 feet (3,950 m)
• Trekking Duration: 7-9 hours

Today is the most beautiful day on the Inca Trail, which encompasses a wide variety of flora, especially orchids. We will have views of beautiful mountain vistas and an assortment of Incan ruins. We begin the day by ascending to our second pass on the Inca Trail called Runkuraqay. Runkuraqay is located at roughly 12,959 feet, and we will stop at this high perch to soak up the amazing scenery while having a snack and water. We will have the opportunity to see and take photographs of two spectacular peaks in the distance, Huaqaywillka (19,028′) and Pumasillo (19,685′). Afterwards we will begin our descent to explore the Inca ruins at Sayaqmarca.

After lunch, we will hike roughly two more hours to the most beautiful campsite on the Inca Trail, Phuyupatamarka (11,942′). Again, we will have views of Mount Huaqaywillka and Mount Pumasillo, as well as the mountain of Machu Picchu!

Please Note : tonight’s campsite is absolutely amazing so naturally people want to camp here. There are usually more people at this campsite than others and many of the groups will ‘try’ to reach Machu Picchu by sunrise the next morning. Many groups will wake up during the night and pack up camp. This can be very noisy. We HIGHLY recommend bringing ear plugs to avoid waking up to the noise.

• Elevation Gain: 294 feet (90 m)
• Elevation Loss: 4,264 feet (1,300 m)
• Highest Elevation: 11,942 feet (3,640 m)
• Trekking Duration: 6-8 hours
• Accommodations: Tierra Viva Machu Picchu

This morning we depart Phuyupatamarka (11,942′) after an early mountain sunrise and tasty breakfast. Shortly after departure, we will visit the beautiful Incan site of Intipata. We then hike downhill for about three hours to the most magnificent ruins along the Inca Trail, Winayhuayna. Here we will tour the site, say goodbye to our porters and chef and begin our two-hour hike to the sun gate at Machu Picchu. Once at Machu Picchu (7,972′) we will have a chance to take great pictures because most crowds have left the city. We will then take a bus down to Aguas Calientes (6,692′), where we spend the night at a hotel and enjoy dinner together at our favorite local restaurant, Indio Felice! Your guide will facilitate the conversation regarding the plan for the next day.

• Hiking Mileage: varies
• Elevation Gain/Loss: minimal
• Trekking Duration: 3-4 hours
• Accommodations: Tierra Viva Centro

This morning we have some flexibility and a couple of different options dependent on how the group is feeling. One option is to wake up early and take the tourist bus to Machu Picchu (7,972′) for the sunrise. Another option is to sleep in a bit, let the tourist crowds subside and take the bus to Machu Picchu around 10 am. We will discuss the options the night before and decide as a group which strategy we want to employ.

At Machu Picchu our local Peruvian guide will lead us on a thorough and fascinating tour of the ancient Inca city for the next 3-4 hours. We will learn about the amazing cultural history of the Inca and Machu Picchu, and delve into some of the mysteries that surround the remote mountain city. After the Machu Picchu tour we will head back to Aguas Calientes for lunch. We will then board a train to the historic town of Ollantaytambo. Upon arrival in Ollantaytambo, we board our private van that will continue on to Cusco (11,200′) where we will have dinner and check into our hotel. What a week it’s been!

This morning we will have our last Peruvian breakfast in Cusco and say our good-byes before heading to the airport. From here you can continue exploring Peru on your own or have a flight booked to return home. For our Machu Picchu Treks you can depart Cusco any time on this final day. Service ends after transportation to the airport.

Please Note : We always do everything in our power to follow the set itinerary, however occasionally trips are subject to itinerary changes based on a variety of circumstances, including but not limited to: lodging/campground availability, extreme weather, political or bureaucratic obstacles, earthquakes, fires, flooding and more. Normal  terms and conditions  apply to trips with itinerary changes.

Trip Dates & Booking

Trip dates & booking.

Click on a date to register. You can also click here to request new dates or book through customer service.

AVAILABLE TO BOOK

This trip is available and bookable online! Click on the date to register now or contact us online to book through our award-winning customer service team!

This trip has 1 or 2 spots remaining and is bookable online! Click on the date to book now or contact us online to book through customer service.

REQUEST A RESERVATION

This trip is exclusively booked through customer service due to logistics with lodging, permits, staffing, availability, or something else. Please contact us online or call us at 800-715-HIKE (4453) to request a reservation.

Don't see your dates? Call us! We may be able to add new trip dates.

Trip details, what's included.

• A detailed trip packet that takes the guesswork out of your travel, training, packing, and preparing for the trip
• A professional Wildland Guide, trained in First Aid, risk management, and responsibility to provide and overall standard of excellence in service quality.  See Guide Bios .
• Transportation for the duration of the tour starting on Day 1 and ending on the day you depart
• Luxury Vistadome train tickets from Aguas Calientes to Cusco
• Lodging before and after the trekking portion of the trip ( Lodging Details )
• All camping gear and supplies (including a dining tent and kitchen tent)
• Porters to transport all gear, food, and most personal items
• Professional camp chef
• Drinking water and hot water for washing face, hands…etc.
• Use of a backpack and trekking poles
• Gratuity for in-country crew: Porters, Chefs, Waiters, and Drivers. *Please Note: Gratuities for Guide(s) are not included in trip rate.
• All meals for the duration of the tour
• Emergency equipment including a company-issued first-aid kit and communication device

What's Not Included

• Transportation to Cusco, Peru
• Trip insurance  that includes medical coverage and at least $200,000 in evacuation and repatriation coverage (strongly encouraged)
• Bar bills, drink bills, extra snacks, telephone bills, wifi bills and other personal expenses (shopping/ laundry)
• All expenses due to unavoidable events e.g. flight cancellation, personal illness, strikes, etc. (we recommend trip insurance coverage for these variables)
• Clothes, rain gear, and footwear ( see recommendations )
• Sunscreen, toiletries and personal items
• Water bottles and a headlamp or flashlight (disposable plastic water bottles are prohibited; please have refillable water bottles or hydration bladders)
• Guide gratuities are optional and at the discretion of each customer. A suggested guideline is to reward outstanding service with a tip of 10-20% of the total trip cost. Please tip your lead guide and they will distribute responsibly to the crew. Local currency is preferred, or USD is also appreciated. *Please Note: Gratuities for Porters, Chefs, Waiters, and Drivers are included in the trip rate.

Click here to see a printable, downloadable trip information packet with more detailed guidance about what to pack.

Meals: What to Expect

This Peru hiking tour features a combination of in-town meals and meals prepared by your guide. We’ll have dinners at carefully selected, wonderful restaurants in Cusco as well as meals prepared on the trail by a professional camp chef. Some staples you may find are potatoes (papas), quinoa, rice, beans, meat, fish, various grains and vegetables.

For optimal taste and energy, we supplement all our meals with spices, herbs, oils, cheeses, butter, sugar, and fruits and vegetables. In addition, we provide you with an assortment of trail snacks* (nuts, dried fruit, chocolate, & cookies) to eat at your own discretion.

We can often accommodate vegan, vegetarian, kosher and non-gluten diets and make adjustments for food allergies. These and other special dietary requests may require an additional fee, and in some countries may be more difficult to accommodate than others. Please inquire with us for more information about the specific trip you’re interested in.

*Common trail snack brands and items found easily in the US are not readily available in this destination. (i.e. protein bars, trail bars, beef jerky, etc…) We recommend guests that prefer these types of trail snacks to bring a few of their own choice items from home.

Gear We Provide

We provide all group gear which includes the following:

• Trekking poles
• Tents, sleeping bags, sleeping pads
• Company-issued first-aid kit
• Emergency communication device(s)

Guest Packing List

When you register for this tour you’ll receive access to a printable, downloadable trip information packet with a detailed packing list specific to this trip ( click here to see it now.) All trips require a sturdy pair of hiking shoes or hiking boots, rain gear, a recommended clothing system, a headlamp or flashlight, a hydration system (water bottles and/or bladder) and other items specific to each trip.

Trip Logistics

How do i register.

Reserve your spot today! In the Trip Dates & Booking section of this page, the green and red dates are bookable online by simply clicking on the date, and blue dates must be booked through our customer service team for a variety of possible reasons. To email our customer service team, you can  click here  to get the ball rolling. Our adventure consultants will confirm availability, and if you’re ready to register we’ll email you a link to a registration profile. You’ll have 72 hours to complete your profile (and that of any dependents) and pay the deposit.

Feel free to call us for more info – we’re here 7 days a week!

Where Do We Meet?

We will meet you at the airport on Day 1 and transport you to the first night’s hotel (included), where we’ll conduct an orientation meeting at 5:30PM the first evening (your flight should arrive before 3PM). Our Peru communications team will be in contact approximately  45 days before your trip to coordinate your rendezvous and answer any last-minute questions you have.

Click here to see a printable, downloadable trip information packet with more detailed guidance about flights, shuttles, recommended lodging and more.

Pre and Post-trip On Request Lodging

We secure limited amounts of pre and post trip lodging in Cusco, Peru as an optional add-on for guests of this trip. This lodging is on request, and is available on a first come, first serve basis. If interested, please reach out directly  to our team to check availability.

Travel to Cusco, Peru

Booking flights.

For our Peru treks you will need to arrive in Cusco, Peru on the day the trip begins earlier than 3 P.M. Your guide will rendezvous with you at the airport and transport you to our hotel. An orientation meeting, dinner and accommodations are included on Day 1. Your return flight should be scheduled for the final day of the tour leaving at any time.

Flights to and from Cusco are the guest’s responsibility. Multiple airlines operate flights into Cusco, and nearly all connect through Lima. You can reach Lima from many U.S. and European international airports. Some of the primary U.S. departure cities include Miami, Fort Lauderdale, Atlanta, Washington D.C., Minneapolis, Chicago, New Orleans, Salt Lake City, Phoenix, and Los Angeles. The duration of nonstop flights to Lima is 5-9 hours. The duration of flights from Lima to Cusco is 80 minutes.

Safety Precautions

Your safety is our top priority. Our hiking tours are led by professional hiking guides, all of whom are wilderness-certified first responders or EMT’s, each with years of guiding and wilderness experience. Guides adhere to standardized risk management protocols in case of any potential or actual incident, and all tours carry an emergency communication device and comprehensive first-aid kit. Additionally we have a “24/7” system through which guides or guests can reach Wildland support personnel at any time.

In the interest of your safety, it’s important to refer to the  Center for Disease Control website  for up-to-date recommendations on immunizations before your trip.

Essential Eligibility Criteria

Essential Eligibility Criteria (“EEC”)  have been specifically identified to help you understand the skills and abilities necessary to participate on each Wildland trip, and they apply uniformly to all potential trip participants, irrespective of the presence or absence of any disability.

Once you identify a trip in which you may be interested, please carefully review the  EEC  and itinerary details. If after reviewing the EEC that apply to your desired trip, you determine you need an accommodation in order to meet the EEC, please  contact us  prior to registering to discuss your requested accommodation.

The EEC exist for your own safety and the safety and enjoyment of all participants. If you are unable to meet the EEC for the trip, with or without an accommodation, you are not eligible for that trip. If you register and arrive for a trip for which you do not meet the EEC, you will be disqualified from participation on the trip and will be dismissed or evacuated from the trip without a refund.

Our approach to international travel is to combine the best of two worlds: the dialed-in details, professionalism and consistency Wildland trips are known for; and the cultural immersion and intimate regional knowledge that only locals can provide. To excel with this approach, we vet and hire the best local guides, welcome them into the Wildland family and train them to meet our standard of excellence with every aspect of a trip. But along with managing logistics and safety, your guides will teach you about the area’s history and culture, and provide a level of familiarity and intimate detail only locals can.

Check out our  Meet Our Team  page for staff bios.

Guide Working Parameters

Guides are required to take 8 hours off each 24-hour period to sleep, recuperate, take personal/down time…etc. In addition, as part of the 8 hours off they must sleep/rest or be in their tents/rooms  uninterrupted  for a minimum of 5 hours each night. We ask guests to respect these requirements and to not interrupt guides’ off time and sleep time unless there is a true emergency.

Porter Team

Where are our porters from.

Wildland works with a team of 15-25 porters, mainly from two different villages: Willoq and Cuyo Grande, both located in the Sacred Valley of Peru. The ages of our porter team ranges from 20 to 55 years old. Our porter team is made up of farmers, meaning their main job is farming and the porter work is to supplement income. They grow crops such as potatoes, lima beans, peas, corn and also raise livestock such as cows, sheep, llamas, and alpacas.

Why do they choose to be Porters?

Being a farmer in the mountains is difficult work, especially in the Cusco region. Each of the members of our porter team own a small plot of land that they use for farming. This work is physical, hard and in the end is often not enough to support their families, especially if they want their children to go to school.

Porters try to work 2-3 treks per month. Each trip lasts for 4 days, so they are away from their families and farm duties between 8 and 12 days each month. They prefer to visit with their families, rest, and catch up on farm duties between treks, usually for 4-5 days. They choose when they want to be available for any given trek or set of dates.

What do we provide Porter staff?

We believe that the main ingredient for any successful trip is keeping not only our guests safe and happy, but also our staff. Without one it is impossible for us to have the other. With that said, we have created a set of standards to ensure the safety and happiness of our porter team.

• All porters are provided health insurance. It is purchased through a private company to ensure they are covered for any health-related issues while working for us. During a trek our lead guides are in close contact with all our staff to ensure safety and wellness of the entire team. Any illness or injury to our staff is treated equal to and as importantly as any illness or injury to our guests. All lead guides are trained in wilderness first aid and can properly assist any staff or guest in emergencies or in the case of illness or injury. First aid kits are carried and readily available for staff, the same as they are for guests.
• We provide staff all the gear needed to keep them warm and safe during treks. This includes sleeping bags, sleeping pads, shelter/tent, warm fleece jackets, hiking pants, hiking shoes, hats, backpacks and a brace used for extra back support.
• We understand that the quality work and effort provided by our porters during treks deserves to be matched by the quality of food we provide to them during treks. Porters are provided 3 warm meals a day on treks and the food is planned for them specifically. They are not fed guest leftovers; their food is planned, purchased, and cooked by our chef during a trek. Meals are always planned with physical and nutritional needs in mind.
• Tipping rates are included in our rates to guests and the amounts given to porters are set, fair, and predictable each trip. Of course, our guests can give more if they wish, but tips are already included in their rates and we ensure our team is tipped fairly, in addition to their normal salary.
• Also, we follow strict weight limits to not overburden our Porters. The maximum weight they can carry is 20 kilos/44 lbs.

School Project

Five years ago, Jose Condor, our partner and Peru Program Manager, started a small project called “Improving Education in the Mountains.”

This project was set up to support the schools and children in the villages around the region where our porters come from.  These small communities and villages have schools, but they are basic, and often do not have sufficient supplies.  Every year, we provide supplies for the schools to use for the school year.  We also supply some hygiene items and other gifts.  A portion of each reservation in Peru goes towards this project. The supplies are utilized by hundreds of children between the ages of 3 and 11.

Age Restrictions

Age restrictions on this trip are as follows:

• 12 and older to join scheduled tours (mixed groups)
• 5 and older to join private tours, with final approval and specific logistical requirements (such as porter or stock assist) determined on a case by case basis

Trip Insurance

For your protection, we strongly recommend the purchase of field evacuation, repatriation, and medical trip insurance. International travel is expensive, and the modest cost of trip insurance is a sound investment in an uncertain world.

If you wish to purchase trip insurance, we recommend IMG/iTravelinsured. They are one of the world’s leading providers of travel insurance.

For information on recommended IMG/iTravelinsured policies please  click here .

For even greater information, or if you simply prefer communicating with a real, live person, feel free to contact our exclusive agent Michael Bennett. Michael will help you identify the best product for your needs, and there is no cost associated with his assistance. You may contact him at:

Email: [email protected] US by Phone: 877-305-9083 Direct/International by Phone: 702-448-3664

If you already have insurance or wish to purchase from anyone other than IMG/iTravelinsured, we recommend careful consultation with the provider to ensure appropriate coverage. This is because many providers have a number of policy exclusions.

Weather in Peru

Peru is home to part of the Amazon Rainforest as well as the towering Andes Mountains. Machu Picchu is at an elevation of 7,972 feet (2,430 meters), but most of our treks in the region reach elevations well above 10,000 feet, some reaching nearly 17,000 feet. Because of the significant elevation changes and alpine hiking, the temperatures and weather can also vary widely. At elevations above 10,000 feet you can expect cold temperatures.

The average temperatures and precipitation in the Machu Picchu region are:

• Accommodations

TIERRA VIVA CENTRO CUSCO

This inviting Cusco hotel maintains the feeling of a historic residence built with stone, tiles, adobe and wood. It is the beautifully restored home of the Velasco Ordoñez family, historic residents of Cusco. The rooms offer modern comfort and are spacious, with large windows and wood floors.

PREMIER CAMPING

Our Peru Treks feature premier camping with comfortable sleeping tents, kitchen tents, dedicated chefs, and a team of porters to carry and set up/break down camp each day. We provide all top-of-the-line gear. Our guests regularly rave about the camping accommodations on our Peru adventures!

TIERRA VIVA MACHU PICCHU

This hotel is in the quietest area of Aguas Calientes, facing the Urubamba River and surrounded by the Forest of Clouds. Modern and stylish, it features spacious and comfortable rooms, a lounge with a fireplace, and wonderful local art hung on the walls of the lobby and rooms.

* These exact accommodations are not guaranteed. In some instances alternative accommodations of similar quality and location may be used.

Trip Reviews

Average customer ratings:.

• 4.9 (31 reviews)
• Most recent

Excellent from beginning to end

My Inca Trail hike to Machu Picchu experience with Wildland was excellent from beginning to end. The communication prior to the trip was thorough, and I clearly understood the expectations and itinerary. My flight to Lima was delayed, so I contacted the guide, who’d previously reached out to me, and he rescheduled pickup for me at the airport, which was smooth and easy. The local sightseeing in Cusco prior to the start of the hike was both very informative and entertaining, and helped with acclimation to the altitude. On the hike itself, the guide, Edgard Mora, was highly accommodating and gregarious, while also maintaining and effective and professional operation throughout each leg. And the food prepared by Martin was truly second to none, a gourmet adventure in its own right. You definitely will not have to worry about being hungry along the way.

Extended Inca Trail

This was the best trip of my life! Wildland did an amazing job planning the best of the best every step of this journey! Our Guide Jose was the absolute BEST! Kudos to him for supporting each one of us on the hike! The restaurants we went to and the food prepared by our chefs were amazing! I can’t wait to do another trip with Wildland!

Outstanding

Jose was a wonderful guide. He was knowledgeable, friendly and had a great sense of humor. The porters were friendly and helpful. The food was outstanding. I highly recommend this trip.

See All Guest Reviews!

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• Machu Picchu Circuits

• 6 Day Inca Trail via Salkantay Trek
• 5 Day Inca Trail to Machupicchu(Unique)
• 4 Day Classic Inca Trail to Machupicchu (GROUP SERVICE)
• 4 Day Classic Inca Trail to Machupicchu (PRIVATE SERVICE)
• 3 Day Inca Trail (Challenge) KM 82
• 3 Day Inca Trail (New) KM 104
• 2 Day Inca Trail (Short) KM 104 With Hotel
• 2 Day Inca Trail (Short) KM 104 With Camping
• 1 Day Short Inca Trail to Machupicchu Km 104

Salkantay Peru Treks

• 5 Day Salkantay Sky Lodge Dome (GROUP)
• 4 Day Short Salkantay Sky Lodge Dome (GROUP)
• 5 Day Salkantay Sky Lodge Dome (PRIVATE)
• 4 Day Short Salkantay Sky Lodge Dome (PRIVATE)
• 5 Day Salkantay Trek Camping (GROUP)
• 4 Day Salkantay Trek Camping (GROUP)
• 3 Day Salkantay Trek Challenge + Sky Lodge Dome

Salkantay Trek Packages

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• 8 Day Salkantay Sky Lodge Dome + Cusco
• 6 Day Salkantay Sky Lodge dome + Short Inca Trail
• 4 Day Salkantay Sky Lodge Dome + Short Inca Trail
• 3 Day Salkantay Sky Lodge Dome + Machu Picchu by Train
• 2 Day Humantay & Salkantay Trek + Sky Lodge Dome
• 1 Day Humantay Lake

Luxury Salkantay Treks

• 4 Day Luxury Salkantay + Sky Lodge Dome

Machupicchu Tours

• 2 Day Rainbow Mountain to Machupicchu
• 2 Day Humantay Lake Tour to Machupicchu
• 2 Day Sacred Valley with Machupicchu
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• 2 Day Cusco Maras Moray hike to Machupicchu
• 2 Day Machu Picchu by Bus
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• 2 Day Biking Maras Moray to Machupicchu
• Choquequirao Treks
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• 9 Day Choquequirao to Machupicchu
• 5 Day Choquequirao Trek to Machupicchu
• 4 Day Choquequirao Trek 4D/3N(Classic)
• 3 Day Choquequirao Trek (Challenge)

Ausangate Treks

• 6 Day Ausangate Machupicchu Trek
• 4 Day Ausangate Trek (Classic)
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Luxury Glamping Peru Treks

• 4 Day Inca Trail Glaming Dome to Dome (Luxury Service)
• 4 Day Salkantay Trek Glamping Dome to Dome (Luxury Service)
• 4 Day Lares Machupicchu Trek Glamping Dome to Dome (Luxury Service)
• 5 Day Choquequirao Machupicchu Trek Glamping Dome to Dome (Luxury Service)

Other Tours

• 2 Day Nazca Lines from Lima
• 1 Day Nazca Lines
• 2 Day Colca canyon
• 2 Day Titicaca Lake
• 1 Day Cusco Puno Bus Service

Inca Jungle Trails

• 4 Day Inca Jungle Trail (Premium) + Sky Lodge Dome (Top Selling)
• 4 Day Inca Jungle Trail (Classic) + Sky Lodge Dome
• 3 Day Inca Jungle Trail (Short) + Sky Lodge Dome (Top-Selling)
• Lares Treks
• 4 Day Lares Trek to Machupicchu
• 4 Day Lares Trek and Inca Trail (new)

Other Top Treks

• 4 Day Socma Inca Quarry Treks
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Peru Travel Short Packages

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• 8 Day Salkantay Trek  & Amazon Tambopata Package
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• 9 Day Lima Cusco MachupicchuTiticaca Package (Classic)
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Peru Travel Large Packages

• 9 Day Short Inca Trail Peru Package
• 9 Day Inca Trail Amazon Rainforest Tambopata ( Top-Selling )
• 9 Day Inca Trail & Tambopata Jungle Package ( Top-Selling )
• 10 Day Inca Trail – Lima – Nazca Package
• 11 Day Inca Trail Peru Package ( Top-Selling )
• 12 Day Lima Nazca Colca Canyon Titicaca Machupicchu
• 13 Day Lima Cusco Amazon Jungle Inca Trail Titicaca Package ( Top-Selling )
• 14 Day Lima Cusco Inca Trail Nazca Sport Package
• 15 Day Lima Cusco Amazon Jungle Titicaca Colca Canyon Package
• 16 Day Lima Cusco Inca Trail Tambopata Amazon Titicaca Colca Canyon
• 17 Day Lima Cusco Rainbow Mountain Mapi Manu Reserved Zone Colca Canyon ( Top-Selling )
• 17 Day Peru Travel Package ( Top-Selling )
• 20 Day Peru Overland Tour Package

Manu Reserved Zone Tours

• 8 Day Manu Reserved Zone
• 6 Day Manu Biosphere Reserved Zone
• 5 Day Manu Jungle Trip (Expedition)
• 4 Day Manu Jungle Tour Holiday
• 3 Day Manu Jungle Holiday

Tambopata Jungle Tours

• 5 Day Upper Tambopata Chuncho Macaw Clay Lick and Sandoval Lake
• 4 Day Upper Tambopata Chuncho Macaw Clay Lick and Sandoval Lake
• 2 Day Upper Tambopata Chuncho Macaw Clay Lick
• 4 Day Amazon Jungle Tour Tambopata Sandoval Lake & Monkey Island (from Cusco)
• 4 Day Tambopata Jungle Trip
• 3 Day Tambopata Sandoval Lake and Monkey Island
• 2 Day Tambopata Sandoval Lake and Monkey Island
• 1 Day Tambopata Sandoval Lake and Monkey Island
• 1 Day Tambopata Zip Lining Canopy Kayak to Monkey Island
• 1 Day Rainbow Mountain Tour
• 1 Day Humantay Lake Tours
• 1 Day Machupicchu Tour by Train
• 1 Day Quad Biking Atv Maras Moray – Quad Biking Cusco
• 1 Day Sacred Valley of the Inkas – Sacred Valley Tour
• 1 Day Cusco City Tour – Cusco Tours
• 1 Day Mountain Biking Maras Moray
• 1 Day Peru River Rafting Upper Urubamba
• 1 Day Mountain Hiking Maras Moray
• 1 Day Cusco Peru Paragliding – Peru Paragling
• 1 Day Horseback Riding Maras Moray
• 1 Day Llama Trekking Maras Moray – Llama Hike Peru
• 1 Day Kayaking Huapo Lake – Kayak Peru
• 1 Day Cusco Zip Lining
• 11 Day Glamping Cusco Salkantay Humantay Amazon Tambopata National Reserve
• 11 Day Glamping Salkantay Trekking and Amazon Tambopata National Reserve
• 7 Day Glamping Cusco Salkantay Trekking to Machu Picchu
• 7 Day Glamping Cusco Salkantay Humantay to Machu Picchu

Exploring the Inca Trail Route: Hiker’s Paradise

The Inca Trail route captivates hikers with its blend of history and natural beauty. Traversing through Peru’s majestic landscapes, it offers a unique trekking experience. This journey is a window into ancient Inca civilization, surrounded by breathtaking Andean vistas. 

Each step on the Inca Trail is a step back in time. The path winds through diverse ecosystems, showcasing Peru’s environmental richness. Hikers witness the legacy of the Incas, etched into the stones they tread.

This article delves into the wonders of the Inca Trail . We explore its historical significance and natural splendor. Prepare to embark on a journey that is both physically challenging and spiritually enriching.

Inca Trail Route: A trekker’s dream destination

The Inca Trail Route embodies a trekker’s dream, offering an amazing adventure. Starting from Cusco City , the journey promises excitement and history. This trail leads to the iconic Machu Picchu, revealing the Inca marvels.

The Inca Trail Route meanders through the Andes, showcasing Peru’s stunning landscapes. Each step unveils breathtaking views and rich cultural heritage. Trekkers encounter diverse flora and fauna, unique to this region.

The journey includes challenging ascents and descents. These paths connect ancient Inca ruins, creating a living museum. Hikers experience a profound connection with nature and history.

The Short Inca Trail offers a condensed experience. Is ideal for those with limited time but an eager spirit. This shorter version still captures the essence of the Inca Trail.

On this trail, camaraderie among hikers flourishes. Shared challenges and awe-inspiring views create lasting bonds. Every evening, campsites offer rest and reflection under starlit skies.

Local guides enrich the journey with stories and knowledge. They provide insights into the Inca civilization and its mysteries. Their expertise adds depth to the hiking experience.

Sustainability and respect for the trail are paramount. Efforts ensure the preservation of this historical path for future generations. Responsible trekking practices contribute to this endeavor.

The Inca Trail Route concludes with the sunrise over Machu Picchu. This moment enhances the trek’s magic and allure. Is a culmination of physical effort and spiritual journey.

This route is more than just a hike; it’s a pilgrimage into the past. It challenges the body and enlightens the soul. The Inca Trail 4 Days Route remains a bucket-list adventure for trekkers worldwide.

Hiking the Inca Trail Route: Challenges and rewards

Hiking the Classic Inca Trail Route presents a blend of challenges and rewards. The Inca Trail Route, known for its rugged terrain, tests hikers’ endurance. Traversing through the Andes, trekkers experience varying elevations and climates.

Inca Trail Weather plays a significant role in the journey. Random conditions demand adaptability and resilience from hikers. They face rain, sun, and cold, often within the same day.

Preparation is key to tackling these challenges. Proper gear and physical training are essential for a successful hike. Hikers must equip themselves for both the terrain and weather fluctuations.

Altitude is another challenge, especially for those unaccustomed to high elevations. Altitude sickness in Cusco is common among travelers. Acclimatization days in Cusco are crucial before starting the hike.

The rewards of the Inca Trail are immense. Spectacular views and ancient ruins await at every turn. These sights provide motivation and a sense of accomplishment.

Cultural immersion is another reward. Hikers learn about the Inca civilization and local customs. This enriches the trekking experience beyond physical activity.

Encounters with diverse wildlife add to the adventure. The trail is home to many unique species, enhancing the trek. Such biodiversity is a reminder of nature’s wonders.

The camaraderie among fellow trekkers is a notable reward. Shared challenges forge strong bonds and lifelong friendships. These relationships add a social dimension to the journey.

The ultimate reward is arriving at Machu Picchu. Witnessing the sunrise over the ruins is a magical experience. It symbolizes the triumph over the trail’s challenges.

The Inca Trail Route offers a remarkable balance of difficulties and delights. Its challenges test the body and spirit. The rewards, however, are amazing, making every step worth it.

Inca Trail route: Scenic beauty and cultural marvels

The Inca Trail route is a mesmerizing blend of scenic beauty and cultural marvels. It offers an unparalleled trekking experience. Traversing this path, hikers immerse in breathtaking Andean landscapes.

Every turn on the trail reveals stunning vistas. Towering snow capped mountains, lush forests, and serene rivers greet trekkers. The diverse terrain showcases the natural splendor of Peru.

Cultural heritage is a cornerstone of the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu. Ancient ruins along the way tell tales of the Inca civilization. These historical sites provide a window into a bygone era.

The path have Inca engineering feats. Terraces, tunnels, and stone steps reflect their advanced skills. Observing these structures, hikers appreciate the Inca brilliance.

Wildlife encounters on the trail add excitement. Unique bird species and rare animals can be on sight. This biodiversity enhances the trek’s appeal.

Local communities along the route offer cultural insights. Interaction with residents deepens understanding of the region’s heritage. These encounters enrich the hiking experience.

Sunrise at Machu Picchu is the climax of the trail. This awe-inspiring moment captures the essence of the journey. Is a reward for the physical and mental effort.

The Inca Trail is more than a hike; it’s a journey through history and nature. It challenges and delights trekkers in equal measure. The route’s combination of scenic and cultural wonders is unmatched.

For those inspired by the Inca Trail, other treks await. The Choquequirao Trek is an excellent alternative. It offers similar splendors with fewer crowds.

Or take the Short Inca Trail Hike is perfect for time-constrained adventurers. It provides a condensed version of the Inca Trail experience. Is different from the 4-day Inca Trail.

Both options promise adventure and discovery in Peru’s majestic wilderness.

Facts about the Inca Trail Route

• Highest Point: Dead Woman’s Pass (Warmi Wañusqa) – approximately 4,215 meters (13,828 feet) above sea level
• Sea Level: The Inca Trail varies in elevation, starting at a lower altitude and ascending to high mountain passes
• Starting Point: The trek typically begins at Kilometer 82, near Ollantaytambo in the Sacred Valley
• Final Point: Puerta del Sol (Sun Gate) – the entrance to Machu Picchu with a stunning view of the ruins
• Inca Archaeological Sites: The trail features numerous Inca ruins, including Runkurakay, Sayacmarca, Phuyupatamarca, and Wiñay Wayna
• Location: The Inca Trail is in the Andes mountain range, within the country of Peru in South America
• Sun Gate (Inti Punku): A key landmark on the trail, offering the first glimpse of Machu Picchu at sunrise

OUR REWARDS  IN TRIPADVISOR

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Contact Information

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Best Peru Tours, Inca Trail, Machu Picchu Tours

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Inca Trail Explore offer Machu Picchu tours and Machu Picchu treks, Explore the Path of the Inca and get more from your authentic Peru vacations, complete tours in Cusco Peru, cultural and nature tours inluded the Amazon Rainforest

Classic Inca Trail 4 days

The iconic Inca Trail to Machu Picchu is the most sought out hike in South America. This centuries-old trail is rooted in Inca heritage

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short Inca Trail 2 days to MachuPicchu;This hike gives one a taste of the Inca Trail without days of hiking and camping.

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OUR OUTSTANDING TESTIMONIALS

Wonderful trek! The guide, Ruben, was great - his history lessons at the Inca sites were very informative and his great sense of humor really brought the group together. If you’re looking for the finishing touches, high quality guides, and overall safety, I highly recommend booking through Explore Adventures Peru. They are the most well trusted ...

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Who We Are?

[email protected] Cell: (+51) 984804470 Main Office: Main Square Plaza de Armas; Cusco - Perú

Tickets for Machu Picchu

• Machu Picchu + Huayna Picchu Tickets
• Machu Picchu + Mountain Tickets
• Machu Picchu Museum Tickets
• Machu Picchu Train Tickets
• Ticket Entrance to Machu Picchu

Inca Trail Information

• 2023 Inca Trail Availability
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• Inca Trail 4 days
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• Private Inca Trail 5 days
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• Inca Trail Woman 4 days
• Salkantay & Inca Trail 5 days
• Salkantay Multisport 4 days
• Salkantay Trek 5 days
• Salkantay & Inca Trail 7 days
• Lares Trek 4 days
• Lares Trek & Short Inca Trail 4 days
• Lares Valley Hot Spring 4 days
• Lares Homestay & inca Trail 4 days
• Lares Homestay 2 days
• Ancascocha Trek to Machu Picchu 5 days
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• Ancascocha-trek & Inca Trail 7 days
• Inca Quarry Trail 4 days
• Inca Bridge - Qeswachaca
• Lost Inca Trail 5 days
• Pumamarca Trek 2 days
• Moon Stone Trek 5 days
• Huchuy Qosqo Trek 2 days
• Huchuy Qosqo Trek 3 days
• Ausangate Trek 5 days
• Qeros Community Trek 5 days
• Choquequirao to Machu Picchu Trek 8 days
• Machu Picchu for Less
• Machu Picchu Madorpampa Tours 2 days
• Machu Picchu Tours & Sacred Valley 2 days
• Machu Picchu Sunrise Tours 2 days
• City Tour Cusco
• Sacred Valley Tours
• Cusco City Walking Tour
• Tipon Pikillaqta Tour
• Maras, Moray, Salt Mine Tour
• Inca Quarries Ollantaytambo
• Private Maras, Moray, Ollantaytambo
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• Rainbow Mountain Vinicunca Tour
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Trek to Machu Picchu

Inca trail private journey.

From $5,695

Call 1-800-368-2794 or contact us for any questions

This Private Journey is one of the great hikes of the world! Join your private guide for an amazing trek on the world-renowned Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, lost city of the Incas. On the trail, you just carry a daypack as you experience this unforgettable journey with our famous Wilderness Travel full-service camping support. Many other treats are in store on the Inca Trail: absolutely spectacular campsites, haunting Inca fortresses tucked among the rugged crags of the Cordillera Vilcabamba, the beauty of walking in a cloud forest of bamboo and orchids, and the mysterious dancing clouds that shroud, then reveal, these steep green mountains. We designed the trek for maximum altitude acclimatization and to get the most out of each trekking day on your incredible five-day hike. Along the way, enjoy the rich experience of hiking to three of the most fantastic Inca ruins on the trail: Runkuracay, Sayacmarca, and Phuyupatamarca (“Town in the Clouds”), then make your much-anticipated hike to Intipunku, the Gate of the Sun, to enter the magical world of Machu Picchu.

Arrive: Cusco, Peru

Depart: Cusco, Peru

• Hike in the footsteps of the Incas and enter the citadel of Machu Picchu on foot
• Your own private guide and porters, delicious camp cuisine prepared by your personal cook
• Enjoy the comforts of our legendary Inca Trail camping services—the best on the trail!
• Discover Peru's vibrant traditional culture and renowned archaeological treasures
• Deluxe option includes an overnight at the Machu Picchu Sanctuary Lodge, with its extraordinary access to the ruins

Dates & Pricing

Best months to go: January to December. For our Private Journeys, you choose your own group and your preferred dates. Prices are per person and not guaranteed until services are confirmed. Contact us for availability, questions, or to book your adventure!

Payment & Cancel Schedule

At time of reservation: $1,000 90 Days prior to departure: Balance Please note that this differs from our standard policy.

Cancellation & Transfer Schedule

Minimum fee (including Inca Trail permit fee): $610 per person 61-90 days prior to departure: 50% of trip cost 46-60 days prior to departure: 25% of trip cost 45 days or less: 100% of trip cost

Please note that this differs from our standard policy.

• Expert leadership of private guide on trek and all tours
• Accommodations in hotels and top quality tents on trek
• All meals included except 2 lunches and 2 dinners as indicated in Detailed Itinerary
• Entrance fee to Machu Picchu and Huayna Picchu
• All ground transportation and baggage handling from arrival until departure
• All activities as indicated in Detailed Itinerary

Not Included

• Travel to and from the arrival and departure location as indicated in Detailed Itinerary
• Additional hotel nights outside the trip's scheduled dates
• Optional gratuities to guide or staff
• Optional travel insurance
• Other expenses of a personal nature (some alcoholic beverages, laundry, etc.)
• Any activities and services described as an upgrade or optional

Accommodations

Scroll through our signature accommodations for this trip below. Although it is highly unlikely, we may make substitutions when necessary.

Casa Andina Premium Cusco

Cusco, Peru

Day 1 (1 night)

Optional Upgrade: Hotel Monasterio

Hotel Pakaritampu

Ollantaytambo, Peru

Day 2 (1 night)

Optional Upgrade: Hotel Rio Sagrado

Private Camp at Kilometer 82

Chilca, Peru

Day 3 (1 night)

Inca Trail Trek Camps

Inca Trail, Peru

Days 4-6 (3 nights)

Machu Picchu Pueblo Hotel

Aguas Calientes, Peru

Day 7 (1 night)

Optional Upgrade: Machu Picchu Sanctuary Lodge

Day 8 (1 night)

Trip Leaders

Wilderness Travel Trip Leaders have a passion and a joy for creating an unforgettable journey. We are extremely proud of them and the incredible travel experiences they make possible. For more information, including client comments about them and which specific trips they will be leading, please click on their profiles below.

Jhon Elguera

Harry Sallo Pumayali

What the Trip is Like

This trip is rated  Level 5, Moderate to Strenuous, according to our trip grading system. Most hiking is between 8,000 and 12,000 feet. The maximum elevation we reach is 13,766 feet, and the highest place we camp is 12,033 feet. The total mileage hiked is about 29. Our group will spread out along the trail during about six to seven hours of hiking each day (shorter on some days).On the trail, you will just carry your own daypack for the items that you want with you on the trail, such as a water bottle and a jacket. Our team of Inca Trail porters carries all your other gear from camp to camp.

Trails can be rugged, not the well-maintained trails you may be accustomed to in the United States. For the most part, you can hike at your own speed. The altitudes are high, but our first hotel night is in Cusco at 11,200 feet, our second overnight is in the Sacred Valley of the Incas at 9,500 feet, our third is at our first camp at 8,900 feet, and our fourth is at our second camp at 9,840 feet. These four days will help your altitude acclimatization before climbing the first pass.

You must make a concerted effort to get in top physical condition for the trip by engaging in regular exercise well beyond your normal routine. We recommend you do aerobic exercise that causes you to break a sweat for at least 30 minutes, at least three times a week, over the course of a couple of months prior to the trip.

To accelerate your conditioning, try walking faster than 1.5 miles per hour, walking on steeper inclines, and using your gym's stair-climbing machines. As you progress, practice these walks with your loaded daypack (full water bottle, camera gear, jacket). Walks are also a great way to break in your hiking boots. The object is to improve your overall level of fitness and aerobic capacity and get your legs and lungs in shape for the Andes.

This journey can best be enjoyed from March through December. Being so close to the equator, Peru has only two climate seasons: a dry season from April to October, and a wet season from December to March. Altitude is the main factor controlling the climate. In the mountains, you'll encounter sunny days with daytime temperatures ranging between 65°F and 70°F degrees, dropping to the 40°s and lower at night. The sun is very strong at high altitude and it can often be warm enough to hike in shorts and a t-shirt. However, it can also get extremely cold; if you're familiar with mountain weather, you know how suddenly it can get cold even in the daytime if the sun slips behind a cloud. Nighttime temperatures can drop to below freezing. Rain should not be a problem on our treks, but always keep in mind that mountain weather is unpredictable and sudden storms can occur, especially on high mountain passes.

Lima lies in a coastal desert where rainfall is rare and temperatures are usually warm (70°s and 80°s). Days are overcast most of the year due to the Humboldt current that comes up from Antarctica and meets the warm, tropical El Nino current from the north to create the garua, or coastal fog/mist.

The climate in the Amazon Basin is generally warm and humid throughout the year but can also be unexpectedly cool (usually 60°s) due to the breezes that blow down from the Andes.

A Typical Trekking Day

Hiking distances on trek are normally measured in hours, not miles, since maps aren't really accurate enough to assess how far we walk up and down winding mountain trails. An average day's walk is seven or eight hours. With rest stops and photo stops, few people walk faster than one mile an hour in a mountainous region. Some hiking days are shorter than others, and some days are more difficult than others due to altitude gain and loss.

On a typical trek day, wake-up is around 7 am, when a cup of hot tea or coffee and a basin of warm washing water are brought to your tent by one of the camp crew. After packing up our duffels and having breakfast (often pancakes, oatmeal, eggs, or something similar), we set off on the trail while the crew strikes camp and the porters shoulder their loads. The crew passes us by midmorning to get ahead and prepare our lunch.

Most groups tend to spread out over the trail, taking photos, stopping to rest, and enjoying the scenery. We ask you not to hike ahead of the leader because trails are often not well-marked. If you feel breathless during a long ascent or wobbly during a long descent, by all means stop until you feel restored.

You will typically hike for three or four hours in the morning, then stop for a leisurely lunch of an hour or more at a scenic spot on the trail. Lunch is a picnic, perhaps chicken salad, potato salad, guacamole salad, or macaroni salad, along with fruit, cheese, bread, and chocolate bars for extra energy. After lunch, you will hike for another three hours or so until you reach the next night's camp. The porters and crew pass you in mid-afternoon and usually have camp set up by the time we arrive. At camp, there is late afternoon tea (or coffee or cocoa) and a snack such as popcorn, cookies, or crackers, which hit the spot after a long day on the trail. Before dinner, there's free time to read or relax. Temperatures drop quickly as the sun drops behind the peaks, and it's easy to get chilled after exerting yourself for several hours, so have a few extra layers of clothing ready. It gets dark fairly early (around 6:30 pm). Dinner, served in a dining tent with table and chairs, is delicious hot soup followed by a substantial main course and a dessert. After dinner, you can chat away the evening in the dining tent or read by flashlight until bedtime.

Extend Your Trip

Arequipa and Colca Canyon Extension

From $1,450

Amazon Rainforest Extension: Reserva Amazonica

Client Testimonials

"Fun, exciting, and uplifting."

"Could not have been better. I felt so taken care of by Wilderness Travel."

"This was the trip of a lifetime—we had a blast! I have wanted to go to Machu Picchu for 25 years, and it did NOT disappoint. The surprise was that the HIKE was the best part of the trip! Beautiful and fabulous in every way!"

Laguna Niguel, CA

"The trip was extraordinary and my hiking companion and I agreed, as we watched the other guides and groups, that we had clearly chosen the best in the field."

"I can’t give enough wonderful feedback! Our Trip Leader did a superlative job of helping to balance challenge with wonderment. The rest of the team on the trail were warm, professional, and kind. The food was terrific!"

Potomac, MD

"All our guides showed such a passion for their work, the country of Peru, the Peruvian people, and the Inca archaeological sites."

Silverton, OR

"We had a great trip. It was clear that lots of knowledge, experience, and planning had gone into the itinerary."

"We loved the trip, especially the hiking. Our guide also gave us a great education in history and Inca culture."

Newtown Square, PA

"The trail and food were wonderful—hiking in luxury!"

Fairport, NY

"Outstanding adventure in every possible way! This trip absolutely exceeded our expectations!"

Contoocook, NH

"First class service from our moment of arrival until departure. It was very apparent on the trail that Wilderness Travel was a higher level experience than any other agency. We were very pleased with all services."

"Awesome! The experience of a lifetime."

Atlantic Beach, FL

"Wilderness Travel put together the perfect excursion and we all had the time of our life. I really can't think of anything else you could've done to make this the most memorable vacation I've ever had."

Valley Springs, CA

"What a great time we had on the Inca Trail Private Journey!  We were very impressed with the quality of the staff and the planning that went into the itinerary."

Raleigh, NC

When is the Best Time to Go?

March through first week of January. Mid-January through February are the rainiest months for the Inca Trail. They close the trail for two weeks in February for trail maintenance. The high season for the Inca Trail begins in May and extends through September, Peru's winter and the dry season. The shoulder season is March and April, and again from October and November to December. The rains begin in earnest in late December, but this is also the time with fewer hikers on the trail. The rain does not usually affect the trail itself since it is mostly stone-paved.

Best Time to Hike the Inca Trail

Why Do You Need to Book So Early?

To protect the Inca Trail's monuments and environment, Peruvian authorities issue a very limited number of permits for hikers on the Inca Trail. Only 500 permits are issued for each day, with 200 permits going to hikers and 300 permits going to the licensed porters who carry your gear on the trail. As you can imagine, permits sell out extremely fast! We strongly recommend you book your trip at least six months in advance, especially if you are considering going between May and September. When you sign up, please be prepared to give us your passport number and your name as it appears on your passport so that we can request a permit for you.

Why Should I Hike the Inca Trail with WT?

• We are experts on the Inca Trail with over 40 years of experience.
• A perfectly paced itinerary , with five full trekking days (most companies push it with just four days on the trail — and some even three). This allows for a better pace, fewer crowds, and more sites and exploration along the way.
• Exceptional camps with the finest equipment, delicious meals, and hot coffee, cocoa, or tea brought to your tent each morning. The first two nights are in private campsites completely to ourselves!
• The most qualified guides — experts in Inca history and culture.
• Overnight at the Machu Picchu Sanctuary Lodge, the only hotel just steps away from the ruins, giving you access to Machu Picchu without the crowds.

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Our Area Specialists know every detail about our tours. They will be happy to answer any questions and help you choose the journey that’s right for you. Contact us to learn more or book your trip today!

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Trip Levels

With more than 200 different adventures to choose from, we want to help you find the trip that’s right for you. Our Trip Level system ranks each trip in two ways: a number rating from 1 to 6 according to the activity, and general travel rigors. 1 is the easiest and 6+ the most difficult—see descriptions below for explanations of each number. A plus (+) sign means the trip is a bit more strenuous than other trips of that level. The detailed explanation of each trip—below the bar with the number rating—is perhaps more important, specifying activities, altitudes, hiking, and travel conditions. The Detailed Itinerary, available by download or mail, gives further information. Our Area Managers can also answer questions and guide you to the trip that best suits your interests.

Level 1 – Easiest

Non-camping journeys, optional walks, little elevation gain or loss.

• Royal Rajasthan and Villages of India
• Small ship cruises

Level 2 – Easy to Moderate

Hotel nights and/or safari-style camping, hikes of two to four hours on some days. Other physical activities are sometimes included, such as optional sea kayaking.

• Our African safaris
• Costa Rica Wildlife

Level 3 – Moderate

Half- to full-day hikes (3-6 hours) over rolling countryside on most days, occasional steep trails. Many of our hotel-based walking tours are in this category, as are our snorkeling adventures.

• Tuscany & the Cinque Terre
• Argentina: Hikes and Estancias of Patagonia
• Palau Snorkeling & Sea Kayaking
• Some trips with minimal hiking but rugged travel conditions or long drives, such as  Tribal Ghana, Togo & Benin,  are Trip Level 3.

Level 4 – Moderate to Strenuous

Full-day hikes (4-6 hours), mountainous terrain, significant elevation gains and losses (hiking up or down as much as 3,000 feet) on many days. Altitudes no greater than about 10,000 feet.

• Ultimate Patagonia
• Hiking the Spanish Pyrenees

Level 5 – Strenuous

Full-day hikes (4-8 hours), mountainous, steep terrain (hiking up or down as much as 3,500 feet) on many days. Trips with hiking at average altitudes of 10,000 to 12,000 feet are in this category.

• Everest Lodge to Lodge

Level 6 – Very Strenuous

Full-day hikes (5-8 hours), mountainous, steep terrain (hiking up or down as much as 3,500 feet) on many days. Most hikes take place at altitudes above 10,000 feet, with some days ascending as high as 18,000 feet.

• Everest Base Camp
• Climb Kilimanjaro!

What to know when planning an awe-inspiring hike on the Inca Trail

Peru's most famous trail leads to Machu Picchu

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While on the Inca Trail, every step — past ancient ruins, up stone staircases and over Dead Woman's Pass — brings hikers closer to their final goal: reaching Machu Picchu. Trains and buses drop thousands of visitors off here every day, but hiking in offers an unmatched experience. Hikers get to sit in sacred spaces, sleep under the stars and bond with their fellow adventurers. The promise of being able to reach the Sun Gate and take in that first view of Machu Picchu keeps them motivated.

Planning a hike on the Inca Trail takes time. There are also important factors to keep in mind, like when the dry season is and what time of year the trail is closed for maintenance. Here are some tips to ensure an epic experience.

What is the Inca Trail?

Hikers get to see stunning views from the Inca Trail

The Classic Inca Trail is a 25-mile-long hiking trail in the Andes Mountains that takes four days to complete and ends at Machu Picchu. After starting at KM 82 in the Sacred Valley, hikers will follow the stone paths that wind by sites like the Valley of Llulluchapampa, Sayacmarca ruins and Wiñay Wayna complex. On the final day of the trek, you most likely will rise well before dawn in order to arrive at the Sun Gate and Machu Picchu around sunrise.

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How soon should you start planning a hike?

Running across alpacas is another highlight of the Inca Trail

If possible, think about booking six to nine months in advance. The peak season to visit is June through August, and with the Inca Trail being a popular hike, permits are snapped up quickly. 

What is the best time of year to hit the trail?

One of the many types of flowers that grow along the trail

The trail is open year-round except in February, when it is closed for maintenance. Dry season is May through September, "where temperatures are milder and you can expect bright, sunny days, making for great visibility along the hike," Krissy Concannon, an independent affiliate of Travellustre in Boston, told The Week. The Inca Trail is one direction only, and when the adventure is over you will leave by train or bus.

Do I need to train for the Inca Trail? 

Preparation for the hike should start before you leave home

This is a strenuous hike at a high altitude, traversing different landscapes like cloud forests and grasslands. Travelers should expect to travel six to nine miles a day and can train ahead of time by hiking with a pack or getting regular exercise at home. Julie Sudderth of Vivid Getaways in Dallas told The Week she has seen "hikers from 7 to 70 years old command this trail with no problems." The Inca Trail reaches an elevation of 13,800 feet above sea level, making acclimation critical, especially for those who have experienced altitude sickness previously. Concannon recommends spending at least two or three days in Cusco prior to the hike to acclimate better to the altitude.

What kind of experiences can you have on the trail?

Sunrise on the trail is a beautiful experience

Every trip has one element in common: You must go with an operator and cannot hike on your own. "Normally, the best companies go with the best guides," Sudderth said. "This is invaluable." Good guides "will know when to slow down or quicken the pace as they are actively reading the client’s demeanor," she added, and also "weave the rich history, wildlife and flora and fauna into the hike" while keeping everyone "engaged and motivated. With children especially, this is priceless."

Those who want to go all out can book a private or small group hike, with an expert guide and porters, a well-stocked and clean bathroom tent, gourmet meals and high-quality camping gear, from the pillows to the tents. Midrange experiences are catered toward hikers who do not want a bare-bones trip but also aim to keep costs down, and include nice gear and good food with moderate accommodations.

Concannon warns that when opting for low-cost hiking tours, travelers "need to be cautious to ensure operators are not cutting corners that could negatively impact their experience. Hikers can expect minimal or lesser quality gear and food options to be more minimal. Campsite options could also be less than ideal, with locations lacking in view."

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Catherine Garcia is night editor for TheWeek.com . Her writing and reporting has appeared in Entertainment Weekly and EW.com , The New York Times , The Book of Jezebel , and other publications. A Southern California native, Catherine is a graduate of the University of Redlands and the Columbia University Graduate School of Journalism.

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