Classic Inca Trail
9 Days - Departs daily
The Inca Trail is one of the most famous treks in the world. The trail follows an ancient path built over 500 years ago by the Incas themselves. Following the footsteps of Hiram Bingham, the discoverer of Machu Picchu, hikers will be witnesses to the striking beauty of the diverse changing ecological zones and impressive ancient archeological sites along the Inca Trail. After the four-day trek you will arrive at Machu Picchu, the legendary lost Inca city with its remarkable architecture and ancient stone constructions, perfectly melded into the steep hills of the ‘Old Mountain’. This breathtaking sight is the perfect finale of the Inca Trail - although the trek itself truly justifies the saying ‘The journey is the reward’.
from AUD $3693pp
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Itinerary Highlights
- Learn about local culture on a Sacred Valley tour.
- Trek the world famous Inca Trail to Machu Picchu
- With its ancient archaeological sites, fascinating museums and unique Andean atmosphere, Cusco’s sights and sounds never fail to inspire all those who travel there.
- Take a guided tour of Machu Picchu, the Lost City of the Incas and one of the new Seven Wonders of the World.
Itinerary in Brief
- Day 1: Arrive in Cusco
- Day 2: Cusco City Tour and Pre-Trek Briefing
- Day 3: Cusco - Sacred Valley
- Day 4: First day of Inca Trail - Sacred Valley – Huayllabamba
- Day 5: Second day of Inca Trail - Huayllabamba – Pacaymayo
- Day 6: Third day of Inca Trail - Pacaymayo - Wiñaywayna
- Day 7: Fourth day of Inca Trail - Wiñaywayna – Machu Picchu
- Day 8: 2nd Visit to Machu Picchu with Wayna Picchu Trek - Cusco
- Day 9: Depart Cusco
Tailor-made suggestions for this itinerary
- Add in a 3 or 4 day trip to an Amazon lodge.
- Extend your stay in Peru and explore some of its other highlights including Arequipa, the Colca Canyon and Lake Titicaca.
- Visit Bolivia's spectacular colonial cities including Sucre and the mining town of Potosi then onto the incredible Salar de Uyuni by 4WD.
Arrive in Cusco
On arrival at the airport you will be met by our representative and transferred to your hotel.
We suggest that you take it easy today to give yourself the best opportunity to acclimatise to Cusco's altitude. This city is bursting with Andean culture and is one of the great culinary destinations of South America. It also just happens to be the gateway to the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu, the best-known archaeological site on this vast continent.
Cusco City Tour and Pre-Trek Briefing
Your first morning in Cusco can be spent at your leisure, enjoying breakfast before exploring Cusco or relaxing at your hotel.
In the afternoon you will be met for your guided tour of Cusco and its archaeological sites. Your Cusco tour will include highlights such as Plaza de Armas, the cathedral and Koricancha Temple. We also visit the UNESCO World Heritage listed ruins of Sacsayhuaman just outside of Cusco which were once the former capital of the Incan Empire.
This evening you will have a pre-trek briefing with your trekking guide who will provide you with details of your program for the following days. Here you will be provided with hessian bags to pack your 5kg of luggage, which will be carried by your guides, and also given the opportunity to hire sleeping bags, walking poles and anything else you might require. We suggest taking a good day pack and leaving the remainder of your luggage in the secure lock-up of your hotel in Cusco.
Breakfast included.
Cusco - Sacred Valley
This morning you will be picked up from your hotel to discover the Sacred Valley of the Incas on this full day excursion. This fertile river valley was home to many important sites for the Incas, both strategic and religious. Your first stop will be at the Mirador de Taray, a scenic lookout point offering impressive panoramic views of the Sacred Valley.
Continue on to Pisac where you will first visit the archaeological complex, the ruins of the fortress of Pisac which are set high above a valley by patterned fields and rimmed by vast terracing. The stonework and panoramas at Pisac's Inca citadel are magnificent. You will visit the lower part of the complex where the agricultural area and the pre-Hispanic cemetery are located. Afterwards, visit vibrant Pisaq market, originally a place where people from remote communities used to barter their products. Nowadays Pisaq has evolved to one of South America's most famous souvenir markets. Make sure to sample some 'empanadas' baked in traditional clay ovens.
We will have lunch in the restaurant 'Casa Colonial', located in the heart of Urumba. Enjoy a meal in an over 200 year old resored colonial style mansion with a beautiful view of the main square of Urubamba. Chef Rene Rodriguez's menu features traditional Peruvian dishes prepared using local organically grown ingredients.
In the afternoon we visit the fortress of Ollantaytambo where the Temple of the Sun and the Terrace of the Ten Niches stand out.
Breakfast and Lunch included.
4 Day Inca Trail
**Package inclusions: Transport from Sacred Valley to the start of the trail, Inca trail & Machu Picchu entrance fees, camping equipment, porters to carry your backpack (a duffel bag will be provided) max. 5kg, sleeping bag and mat, english-speaking guide, chefs, meals as specified, bus ticket to Aguas Calientes, hotel transfer.**
The Inca Trail is one of the most famous treks in the world. The trail follows an ancient path built over 500 years ago by the Incas themselves. Following the footsteps of Hiram Bingham, the discoverer of Machu Picchu, hikers will be witnesses to the striking beauty of the diverse changing ecological zones and impressive ancient archeological sites along the Inca Trail. After the four-day trek you will arrive at Machu Picchu, the legendary lost Inca city with its remarkable architecture and ancient stone constructions, perfectly melded into the steep hills of the ‘Old Mountain’. This breathtaking sight is the perfect finale of the Inca Trail - although the trek itself truly justifies the saying ‘The journey is the reward’.'
Day 1: Sacred Valley – Huayllabamba
Having enjoyed a suitably breathtaking journey through the Sacred Valley on the way to the trailhead, your first eager steps of the trail will begin at the famous ‘km. 82’ footbridge. The early stages are gentle, following the course of the Urubamba River while trekking through a pleasant combination of meandering forest tracks and riverbank pathways, with your first planned stop being at the Miskay community; an ideal place to meet locals and taste their local ‘Chica’ drink for an early energy boost. From here, the trail makes a gradual ascent into the valley, passing the impressive ancient Incan site of Patallacta which, archaeologically speaking, offers a tantalizing taste of what is to come over the next four days. From this magnificent viewpoint, you will follow the banks of the Cusichaca River, leading into a steady five-hour climb until reaching your camp for the evening, which comes courtesy of a clearing at Wayllabamba, the last inhabited village on the Inca Trail.
Total distance: 12 km / 7.5 miles
Estimated walking time: 5 to 6 Hours
Max. altitude: 3000m / 9,840ft
Campsite altitude: 3000m / 9,840ft
Lunch and Dinner included.
Day 2: Huayllabamba – Pacaymayo
An early start this morning enables you to enjoy your time along the most physically demanding day of the trail. Beginning with 9 km of steep steps and uneven ground, this initial exertion is more than rewarded with heavenly views of the Llullucha Valley, high Andean plains and mystical woodland trails throughout, not to mention the satisfaction of passing through the highest point on your intrepid journey later in the day. Traversing crystal-clear streams and lush valleys into an enchanting Polylepis woodland reserve, the trail continues for several kilometers of steep ravines and treeless grasslands until reaching Warmihuañusca, or ‘Dead Woman’s Pass’; the highest point on the four-day hike (4,200m/13,776ft). Here, unforgettable panoramic views back toward the snow-capped peaks, and then onward to the trailhead winding into the horizon, provide all the motivation needed for the downhill hike to Pacaymayo, the site of your second day’s camp. This clearing is equipped with welcomed amenities such as showers which come as a well-earned reward after a strenuous day of hiking.
Total distance: 11 km / 6.8 miles
Estimated walking time: 6 to 7 hour
Max. altitude: 4,200 m / 13,776 ft
Campsite altitude: 3,600 m / 11,808 ft
Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner included.
Day 3: Pacaymayo - Wiñaywayna
This morning head out after breakfast towards the Inca ruins of Runkurakay. Thought to be an ancient, fortified guard tower, this simple though solid structure offers a fitting start to proceedings and a good taste of what is to come on the day ahead. From Runkurakay, the surrounding scenery evolves into misty, moss-covered cloud forest paths and the lofty peaks of the nearby Pumasillo Mountain Range, before making the gradual descent down to more impressive ruins at Sayacmarca and Phuyupatamarca. These ancient mountainside settlements showcase the best of Inca ingenuity, with its myriad of plazas, irrigation channels, courtyards and many scenic lookout points.
The trail continues along steep steps to yet another magnificent ancient complex; Wiñayhuayna, the largest and most remarkable of all the ruins on the road to Machu Picchu. Time can be spent here exploring the treasure trove of history and wonder that the site represents, blanketed in orchids and wildflowers at every turn, before finally setting your sights on your camp for the night, close by, in the shadow of Wiñayhuayna.
Total distance: 16 km / 9.9 miles
Estimated walking time: 8 to 9 hours
Max. altitude: 3,970 m / 13,022 ft
Campsite altitude: 2,650 m / 8,692 ft
Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner included.
Day 4: Wiñaywayna – Machu Picchu
A very early start today for your short hike to Inti Punku, more commonly known as the ‘Sun Gate’, provides the perfect culmination to your tour. So-called due to its ideally elevated position overlooking the early-morning sun rising behind Machu Picchu, the Sun Gate is a long-time pilgrimage site for travelers and tourists alike. Here, as the sun begins to rise, clearing the early-morning mist from the pristine lawns of Machu Picchu; one of the true wonders of the world.
Descend to the site itself, passing on-looking llamas and ancient Incan stone masonry. Your guide will then lead you on a personal 2-hour walking tour of the residential areas, ritual sites, the Itihuatana stone at the Temple of The Sun.
At around noon, you will return to Aguas Calientes and take the train back to Ollantaytambo, where you will be transferred to your hotel.
Total distance: 6 km / 3.7 miles.
Estimated walking time: 2 to 3 hours.
Max. altitude: 2,430 m / 7,972 ft.
Breakfast included.
2nd Visit to Machu Picchu with Huayna Picchu Trek - Cusco
After breakfast, you have the remainder of the morning free to roam around the majestic site of Machu Picchu, climb the Huayna Picchu (at 3000 m) and get panoramic pictures from Machu Picchu.
Entrance fee for Machu Picchu & Huayna Picchu as well as the shuttle bus are included - no guide service.
Later in the afternoon, return to Aguas Calientes in time for your return train.
The permit to do the Huayna Picchu trek is included for you but is an optional trip and not compulsory. The trek to Huayna Picchu takes around 2 to 3 hours to be completed however it is very steep with large steps which can be difficult for some people. If you prefer not to do this trek then you can let us know in advance or make your mind up on the day. Alternatively we can substitute this trek with the easier but slightly longer Machu Picchu Mountain Trek. Please discuss this with your consultant in advance as availability on both treks can be limited.
Train to Ollantaytambo & Vehicle to Cusco
At the appropriate time, you will take the train from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo station where you will continue your journey to your hotel in Cusco by road transfer. In case you have left any luggage in the hotel in the Sacred Valley, it will be picked up on route.
We will pick the best train time to suit your itinerary, however if you have a preference please let us know.
Breakfast included.
Depart
Our representative will pick you up from your hotel and transfer you to the airport for your departure flight.
Breakfast included.
Departs daily
Season | Type | From | Special Offer |
---|---|---|---|
01 Jan 2024 - 31 Dec 2024 | AUD $3693pp | ||
Comfort | AUD $3693pp | Contact us | |
Superior | AUD $4084pp | Contact us | |
Deluxe | AUD $4562pp | Contact us |
Hotel rates are based on twin share lead in rooms. Other room types and hotels are available. Rates are subject to change and different rates may apply during holiday seasons and special events.
Comfort
Cusco, Peru - Hotel Hacienda Cusco Plaza Regocijo
Sacred Valley, Peru - La Casona de Yucay
Machu Picchu, Peru - El Mapi Hotel
Superior
Cusco, Peru - Antigua Casona San Blas
Sacred Valley, Peru - Casa Andina Premium Sacred Valley
Machu Picchu, Peru - El Mapi Hotel
Deluxe
Cusco, Peru - Aranwa Cusco Boutique Hotel
Sacred Valley, Peru - Aranwa Sacred Valley
Machu Picchu, Peru - Sumaq Hotel
Whats included?
- Accommodation with private facilities
- Hotel Taxes
- Transfers
- Entrance Fees
- Tours with English speaking guides
- Meals as specified
- Train ticket Machu Picchu
INCA TRAIL SERVICES INCLUDED
- Sleeping bag
- Safety briefing before the trek
- Transportation to/from Cusco and the trailhead
- High mountain 2-person tent for double occupancy
- Inflatable sleeping mattress
- Dining tent with table and chairs
- Kitchen tent
- Vegetarian/special menus with prior arrangement
- Experienced English-speaking guide
- Assistant guide for every 9 passengers
- Porters (to carry tents, food and cooking equipment only. There is an extra charge for them to carry your 5kg bags)
- Boiled water three times a day for water bottle refills (except for day 1 and 4)
- Comprehensive first-aid kit including oxygen bottles
- Bus ticket from Machu Picchu to Aguas Calientes town
- Entrance fees and bus Aguas Calientes-Machu Picchu-Aguas Calientes for second day visit to Machu Picchu (without guide)
- Wayna Picchu Mountain pass
What’s not included?
- Air Transportation
- Airport entrance/departure taxes
- Passport, visa, and immigration fees
- Additional hotel nights
- Travel Protection Plan
- Gratuities
INCA TRAIL SERVICES NOT INCLUDED:
- Porter to carry personal items such as backpacks (max. 5 kg per person)
- Chemical toilet
Notes
- Average trekking duration: 6 to 8 hours per day with several long ascents and descents
- Altitude: the highest point on the trek is 4,200m (13,776ft) but camping will be below that level
- Season: from January to December (alternative route in February)
- Cusco’s climate is divided into two differentiated seasons: the rainy season, from November to April (the heaviest rainfalls occurring usually between January – March); and the dry season, from May to October.
- Please note, the Inca Trail is closed in February but an alternative route can be provided.
Important to consider:
The 4-day Inca Trail to Machu Picchu is physically challenging but within the ability of most reasonably fit. It is a 44-km (27 mile) hike, with 3 high passes to be crossed, one of which reaches an elevation of 4200m (13776 ft). The trail is often steep, and it may rain even during the dry season. The temperatures at night may fall below zero, so it is important to come prepared. The Inca Trail closes in February to allow cleaning and restoration works.
In order to preserve the Inca Trail Trek and its surrounds, the Peruvian authorities currently cap the number of Inca Trail trekking permits to 500 per day. As soon as you confirm your reservation with Vivid Expeditions, you are guaranteed to trek the Inca Trail as soon as your permit is confirmed. To help ensure you get a permit for when you want to do the trek, we encourage you to book as far in advance as possible.
What to bring:
- Comfortable and waterproof hiking boots
- Sleeping bag
- Daypack
- Wind and waterproof jacket
- Fleece pullover
- Thermal underwear
- Beanie and gloves
- Sun hat & sunglasses
- Clothing should be comfortable, light and fast drying (jeans not recommended), Cotton hiking trousers, cotton long and short sleeve
- Shirts, shorts & plenty of socks
- Water bottle canteen
- Headlamp/torch and batteries
- Toiletries - including sun block and high factor sun cream, insect repellent & lip balm.
- Camera and spare battery
- Snacks (if you prefer something in particular)
- Passport*
* Please take note that the authorities in Cusco do not accept changes in names or passport numbers. In case you get a new passport number (different to the one you gave us for confirmation) you need to show your old passport to the authorities in the control station in the start of the trail. Should it not be possible to take your old passport with you, only a notarized copy will be accepted by the authorities controlling the access to Inca Trail.