Inca Trail Trek: 7-Day Ultimate Trekking Adventure
Machu Picchu Epic: 7 Days of Adventure on the Legendary Inca Trail
Embark on the Ultimate Inca Trail, a 7-day group tour that promises an unforgettable adventure to the mystical Machu Picchu. This challenging yet rewarding 43-kilometer trek traverses diverse landscapes, from cloud forests and mountain vistas to vibrant sub-tropical rainforests, home to over 250 species of orchids. As you hike this iconic path, you’ll encounter ancient Inca ruins, absorbing the rich cultural heritage of the Quechua and Inca civilizations. Your journey will lead you through the fascinating ruins of Ollantaytambo, offering a glimpse into the region’s stunning architecture and past. Along the way, engage with welcoming locals, learning about their traditions and perhaps even picking up some Quechua phrases. The trek culminates with the awe-inspiring view of Machu Picchu under the sunlit sky, a reward that goes beyond mere words. Reserve your spot now on this small-group tour, designed for those with a passion for authentic and sustainable travel experiences. Embrace the challenge and awaken your adventurous spirit in Peru!
Highlights
- Majestic Machu Picchu Arrival: The trek’s crowning moment is reaching Machu Picchu, witnessing the ancient Inca citadel bathed in the golden light of sunrise.
- Diverse Landscape Trek: Experience a journey through contrasting landscapes, from misty cloud forests to lush sub-tropical rainforests, home to a myriad of orchid species.
- Inca Ruins Exploration: Immerse in the rich history of Peru by exploring ancient Inca ruins along the trail, each telling a unique story of the past.
- Ollantaytambo’s Architectural Splendor: Visit the remarkable Ollantaytambo ruins, showcasing the ingenious architecture and engineering of the Inca civilization.
- Scenic Beauty of the Andes: Marvel at the breathtaking mountain vistas of the Andes, offering spectacular views and challenging hiking trails.
Brief Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival at Cusco
Arrival in the Inca Capital: Acclimate in the historic city of Cusco, exploring its rich cultural heritage and preparing for the trek ahead.
Day 2: Sacred Valley Exploration
Discover the Sacred Valley: Visit the enchanting sites of Pisac, Ollantaytambo, and Chinchero. Immerse in the valley’s profound Inca history and stunning landscapes.
Day 3: Beginning the Inca Trail Trek
Journey to Km 82; Start of the Trek: Embark on the iconic Inca Trail, hiking to Huayllabamba through captivating Andean scenery, marking the start of this epic journey.
Day 4: The Trek Intensifies
Huayllabamba to Paqaymayu: Challenge yourself by crossing the trail’s highest point. Experience breathtaking mountain panoramas and the thrill of high-altitude trekking.
Day 5: Descending into the Cloud Forest
Paqaymayu to Wiñayhuayna: Descend into the mystical cloud forest, a unique ecosystem home to diverse flora and fauna, including over 250 orchid species.
Day 6: Machu Picchu Sanctuary Visit
Sun Gate to Machu Picchu: Trek to the Sun Gate for your first awe-inspiring glimpse of Machu Picchu. Explore the ancient sanctuary, unraveling its mysteries and wonders.
Day 7: Departure from Cusco
Farewell to Cusco: Reflect on your unforgettable journey as you depart from Cusco, carrying memories of an adventure that transcends a mere hike.
Prices for this trip
Hotel Category | Double or Triple room | Single room Additional cost |
---|---|---|
Budget | US$ 1397 | US$ 120 |
Tourist | US$ 1451 | US$ 134 |
Superior Tourist | US$ 1523 | US$ 175 |
* Minimum 2 passengers to confirm the booking; solo traveler is subject to an additional fee.
* Small group min 2, max 12 — group tour; join other travelers at each destination (If you want a private tour just for you, ask your travel agent).
Included
- Accommodation: 3 nights in Cusco Hotel with breakfast and three nights camping
- The itinerary includes all admission costs (Sacred Valley, Inca Trail, and Machu Picchu).
- English-speaking local guides lead the tours.
- All transfers: airport, train station, bus station transfers, Hotel pickup, and drop-offs.
- Train ticket: Aguas Calientes to Cusco (Expedition Class).
- Meals: According to the itinerary (vegetarian or special diets are available).
- All ground transportation.
- 24-hour support by our local staff.
Not Included
- The price does not cover domestic or international flights. Consult a travel agency if necessary.
- VISA procedures, travel insurance, pre, and post-tour accommodation.
- Additional personal costs (alcoholic beverages, laundry).
- The price does not cover gratuities for tour guides, drivers, and support staff.
- Guidance in another language (Germany, French, others), in case you request them, please ask your travel agent.
- Additional items are not included explicitly in the itinerary description.
- Entrance fee to Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain.
- Breakfast on the first day.
- Entrance fee to the Aguas Calientes thermal springs.
- Sleeping bag.
Trip code: CCI7D01-SIC
Day 1 – Arrival at Cusco
- Upon arrival in Cusco, assistance at the airport and transfer to the lodging.
- The rest of the day is free for relaxation to minimize the adverse effects of the high altitude and explore this wonderful city.
- Overnight at the Hotel in Cusco.
- Meals included: None.
Day 2 – Tour to the Sacred Valley (Pisac, Ollantaytambo & Chinchero)
- Hotel breakfast; pick up from the hotel at 07:30. We embark on a journey back to the Inca’s Sacred Valley, beginning in Pisac, 31 km from Cusco. The old Incan archaeological site is on the summit of a mountain.
- Afterward, go down into the quaint little town and wander through its colorful market, where it can buy intricate, beautifully hand-crafted products.
- Afterward, have lunch at a nearby restaurant.
- We next go to Ollantaytambo, an Inca military, religious, and agricultural hub perched on a mountain. Unlike other little villages, this one has retained its original Incan architecture, with magnificent stone structures and winding alleyways.
- Finally, we will visit Chinchero, a village renowned for preserving ancient Andean spinning and weaving traditions. For this reason, they set up a market in the town square.
- The tour ends around 18:30.
- Overnight at the Hotel in Cusco.
- Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch.
Day 3 – Transfer to Km 82, Hike to Huayllabamba
- Hotel breakfast, pick up from the hotel at 06:00, and transfer to the head of the Inca Trail at Piscacucho, Km 82 (2,850m/9,350ft), where we meet the porters. Three hours drive to Piscacucho, and our car typically stops for an hour at Ollantaytambo for breakfast.
- We begin our trip on the Inca Trail by crossing the Urubamba River on a bridge. Then we trek down the Urubamba River’s left bank towards the Sacred Valley. We follow a level path to Miskay. Enjoy an airborne panoramic picture of the fantastic Inca City of Llactapata as we continue on our way.
- Continue our hike through the Kusichaca Valley for about five hours until we reach Huayllabamba town (3,000m/9,840ft) and camp for the night. Throughout the drive, we marvel at the magnificent Vilcanota ridge on the other side of the Urubamba River. The Veronica peak towers above us at 5,832m (19,134ft).
- The first day of the Inca Trail is easy and prepares for the days ahead.
- Overnight in camp.
- Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner.
Day 4 – From Huayllabamba to Paqaymayu (Crossing the highest point)
- This day is the most challenging and high-altitude day on the Inca Trail, with an 11 km steep rise. Pack the day bag with lots of chocolates or candy to maintain blood sugar levels and prevent altitude sickness.
- After breakfast, we begin our demanding day with a sharp climb to the Warmi wañusca Pass, the Dead Woman’s Pass (4,200m/13,776ft). Along this path, the surroundings transform into a mountainous terrain where we may see local alpacas and llamas grazing on the Ichu grass.
- We walk downwards on a meandering trail that skirts around the valley next to our next campground. Additionally, we pass through a region known as the cloud forest, home to various species, including sparrows, hummingbirds, and the Andean bear, the spectacled bear.
- After 6 hours of trekking, we descend into the valley of Paqaymayu (3,500m/11,480ft), where we find our campsite. Enjoy a wonderful meal and rest after an exhausting day.
- Overnight in camp.
- Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner.
Day 5 – Paqaymayu to Wiñayhuayna (Descending into the Cloud Forest)
- Following breakfast, we continue down the Inca Trail’s longest and most spectacular route. Numerous ancient monuments, lush cloud forests, and thriving wildlife and flora of the Andes. We go from Paqaymayu to Abra Runkurakay (3,955m/12,975ft), the second pass.
- About halfway up the Inca route, we will come across the ruins of Runkurakay, a semi-circular Inca dwelling with a view of the Paqaymayu valley. After a brief stay, we continue into the Cloud Forest to the Sayacmarca Archaeological Site.
- Continuing the walk, we reach Abra Phuyupatamarca (3700m/12136ft) and descend to Phuyupatamarca, commonly known as “the town in the clouds,” where we may explore this incredible Inca remnant.
- We descend a long stone stairway to Wiñayhuayna (2,700m/8,858ft), an impressive Inca town with a vibrant agricultural complex, urban sector, and religious center near our camp.
- It is the final official camp before Machu Picchu. Get enough sleep to see the magnificent sunrise at Machu Picchu.
- Overnight in camp.
- Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner.
Day 6 – Hike Sun Gate, Visit Machu Picchu Sanctuary
- At around 04:00, we have breakfast and continue on the Inca trail to Machu Picchu, the last part of the journey, so we arrive at the Sun Gate by 06:00 am.
- After 40 minutes of walking, we arrive at Machu Picchu (2,430m/7,972ft) via the “House of the Guardians.” Machu Picchu (2,430m/7,972ft) was named a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1983 and one of the New Seven Wonders of the World in 2007.
- Around 08:30 am, the guided tour begins; the guide expertly directs through the astounding ruins and main streets. Then wander around the town squares and climb the intricately carved stairways made of stone. Machu Picchu is considered the world’s spiritual center by esoteric wisdom.
- The guided tour takes around two hours and 30 minutes.
- From 12:30 pm to 13:30, take the bus to Aguas Calientes.
- From 13:30 to 15:00, take lunch at a local restaurant in Aguas Calientes.
- Return to Cusco: Board the train to return to Cusco later in the day. Arrive at Poroy station and then be picked up and transported to the Cusco hotel.
- Overnight at the Hotel in Cusco.
- Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch.
Day 7 – Departure from Cusco
- Hotel breakfast; Our representative will meet in the hotel lobby at the specified hour and help with the departure—airport transfer.
- Meals Included: Breakfast.