Peru Inca Trail to Machu Picchu

machu pichuInternational Trip
Recommended by 100% of travelers.
At a glance
  • Duration12 Days
  • Difficulty Level Moderate Trip
  • Max Altitude3,399 m
  • Group Size6
  • StartsLima
  • EndsCusco

Peru, a land of extraordinary landscapes and cultural richness, stands as a captivating gem in South America. With its famous history, breathtaking landscapes, and vibrant traditions, Peru has long been a coveted destination for adventurers and seekers of unparalleled experiences. From the deserts of Nazca to the lush Amazon rainforests, soaring peaks of the Andes to the colonial charm of its cities, Peru offers an unparalleled tapestry of natural beauty and human heritage. Peru is not just a destination; it is a journey that leads to the heart of ancient civilizations and modern vibrancy.

The Peru Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, an iconic pilgrimage that retraces the steps of a once-mighty empire, is the classic Peruvian Adventure. This remarkable journey commences in Lima, the vibrant and bustling capital city, where the harmony of modernity and the echoes of the past create a unique blend of charm. As you touch down at Jorge Chávez International Airport, the warm embrace of our Peru representative sets the tone for the extraordinary experiences that lie ahead. 

Lima, the gateway of Peru, is your first introduction to a mesmerizing expedition that promises a seamless fusion of history, culture, and the awe-inspiring natural wonders that define Peru's allure. Your choice of accommodations in Lima, whether it be a tranquil oasis or a lively urban hub, is evidence of the country's commitment to ensuring your every need is met. This dynamic city is not just the starting point of your journey; it is an introduction to adventures that will carry you deep into the annals of ancient civilizations and the vibrant spirit of contemporary Peru.

Major Highlights of Peru Machu Picchu Inca Trail

  • Sacred Valley in Cusco Tour

Nestled between Cusco and Machu Picchu, the Sacred Valley of the Incas, stands as evidence of the enduring legacy of the Inca civilization. This lush and fertile valley, with its picturesque landscapes, traditional villages, and ancient archaeological sites, is a major highlight of the Machu Picchu Peru Inca Trail.

Here, you'll find the captivating town of Pisac, known for its vibrant market where local artisans display their beautifully crafted textiles, ceramics, and other handmade goods. The valley also hosts Ollantaytambo, a living Inca village with well-preserved ruins, imposing terraces, and a fascinating history.

  • Colca Canyon 

Colca Canyon, one of the world's deepest canyons, is a natural wonder that captivates travelers with its sheer magnitude and breathtaking landscapes. As a major highlight of the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, this remote and rugged region allows you to venture deep into the heart of the Andes. The journey to Colca Canyon Peru takes you through picturesque Andean towns, where you'll witness the daily life of the locals who maintain their ancestral traditions.

One of the most awe-inspiring aspects of Colca Canyon is the opportunity to witness the magnificent Andean condors in flight. The Cruz del Cóndor viewpoint provides a front-row seat to these massive birds, which gracefully glide on thermal updrafts, offering a mesmerizing sight. 

  • Lake Titicaca

Lake Titicaca, the world's highest navigable lake, represents a profound and spiritual experience on the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu. Nestled in the high Andes on the border between Peru and Bolivia, this vast body of water is shrouded in legend and tradition. The islands of Lake Titicaca, such as the famous Uros floating islands, Taquile, and Amantani, are inhabited by indigenous communities who have preserved their customs for centuries.

The full-day tour to Lake Titicaca allows you to explore these islands, each with its own unique culture and way of life. You can witness the skilled craftsmanship of the islanders, and their traditional clothing, and even partake in local customs. The tranquility and serenity of Lake Titicaca's azure waters against the backdrop of the Andean peaks create a surreal and peaceful atmosphere, making it a spiritual highlight of the journey. The lake's mystical aura, combined with the rich cultural tapestry of its islands, forms a deep connection with the essence of Peru and its enduring traditions. Lake Titicaca is an extraordinary part of the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, providing travelers with a unique insight into the Andean way of life and a lasting appreciation for the country's cultural diversity.

Highlights of Machu Picchu Peru Inca Trail

  • Explore the awe-inspiring ruins of Machu Picchu, standing as a testament to the architectural genius of the ancient Incas, 
  • Embark on a journey along the legendary Inca Trail, traversing stunning high-altitude landscapes and ancient stone pathways that offer glimpses into the past and lead you to the breathtaking Machu Picchu,
  • Witness the sunrise over the Andes, casting an ethereal light on the mountaintop ruins and creating a moment of unparalleled beauty,

Best Time to Go to Peru Inca Trail

The Best Time of the year to do the Inca trail in Peru, particularly for the classic four-day trek, is during the dry season, which typically spans from May to September. This period offers more stable weather conditions, with minimal rainfall, making it ideal for hiking and enjoying the stunning landscapes along the trail. 

May and September are considered shoulder months and can be less crowded than the peak summer months of June, July, and August. However, if you prefer to avoid crowds and don't mind the possibility of some rain, you can also consider visiting during the shoulder months of April or October.

It's important to note that the Inca Trail is closed for maintenance in February

Itinerary

  • Your adventure kicks off in Lima, Peru's capital, a city that beautifully combines a rich mix of ancient history with modern city life. 
  • As you arrive at Jorge Chávez International Airport, one of our representatives will greet you with warm hospitality, setting your journey filled with Peruvian warmth. 
  • The city offers accommodations tailored to your needs, whether you seek relaxation or adventure, making Lima the perfect starting point for an unforgettable travel experience.
  • Max Altitude:34 m
  • Accommodation:Hotel
  • Time:1-2 hours
  • Transport:Private Vehicle
  • On the second day, you'll be traveling to Ica for a day filled with exciting excursions.
  • Your adventure begins with a visit to the Ballestas Islands, where you can observe sea lions in their natural habitat. 
  • The islands also offer insights into their historical significance during the Industrial Revolution in Peru. 
  • The tour then proceeds to Huacachina Oasis, a unique and stunning destination, that offers opportunities for adventure, including dune buggy trips and sandboarding on mesmerizing sand dunes.
  • Max Altitude:500 m
  • Accommodation:Hotel
  • Time:4-5 hours
  • Meals:Breakfast
  • Transport:Tourist Vehicle
  • Day three is all about exploration from the skies. 
  • You'll board a plane for a flight over the enigmatic Nazca Lines, a UNESCO World Heritage site featuring stylized animal and mystical creature geoglyphs, allowing you to ponder the mysteries of the ancient Nazca civilization. 
  • Following the flight, a local restaurant provides a place for reflection and refreshment before an overnight bus journey to Arequipa.
  • Max Altitude:2,328 m
  • Accommodation:Hotel
  • Meals:Breakfast
  • Transport:By Air, Tourist Bus
  • Arequipa, known as the "White City" for its striking buildings made from white volcanic stone, is the next destination. 
  • Your day starts with a city tour, covering significant landmarks such as Carmen Alto, Yanahuara, the Plaza de Armas, the Cathedral, and the Santa Catalina Monastery
  • These historic sites offer insights into the 17th-century architecture and the rich cultural tapestry of the region.
  • Max Altitude:2,335 m
  • Accommodation:Hotel
  • Time:4-5 hours
  • Meals:Breakfast
  • Transport:Tourist Vehicle
  • Leaving Arequipa, you embark on a journey to the Colca Canyon. Along the way, you'll enjoy stunning landscapes, make stops for acclimatization, and observe the region's unique flora and fauna. 
  • The day includes a visit to Patapampa, a high-altitude viewpoint, as well as relaxing in the thermal springs of Cahacapi and dinner in Chivay, preparing for the next day's adventure.
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  • Max Altitude:4,800 m
  • Accommodation:Hotel
  • Time:4-5 hours
  • Meals:Breakfast, Dinner
  • Transport:Tourist Vehicle, Short Hike
  • Day six continues with a visit to Cruz del Cóndor, offering you the opportunity to witness the majestic Andean condors in flight. 
  • The exploration extends to the charming towns of Yanque and Maca. 
  • Later, you'll take a bus to Puno, where you can rest and prepare for the next leg of your journey.
  • Max Altitude:3,779 m
  • Accommodation:Hotel
  • Meals:Breakfast
  • Transport:Tourist Vehicle
  • The enchanting Lake Titicaca, the world's highest navigable lake, awaits you on the seventh day. 
  • A full-day tour allows you to discover the lake's islands and cultural treasures, providing a unique perspective on the region's history and traditions.
  • Max Altitude:3,812 m
  • Accommodation:Hotel
  • Meals:Breakfast
  • Transport:Tourist Vehicle
  • Your journey from Puno to Cusco is an unforgettable experience that begins early in the morning. 
  • Our team will pick you up from your hotel in Puno, and you'll board the bus that will take you to the beautiful city of Cusco. 
  • Along the way, you'll have the opportunity to visit iconic places that shed light on ancient civilizations that thrived in the high plains over 2,000 years ago. One of the stops is the Pucara Lithic Museum, which features stone carvings depicting anthropomorphic figures from the Pucara culture. 
  • You'll also explore Raqchi's Archaeological Complex, including a stop at the Temple of Wiracocha God, an Inca pilgrimage site, agricultural terraces, an artificial lagoon, and Inca homes
  • For lunch, we'll head to the town of Sicuani, where you can sample some of the country's best cuisine and enjoy a view of the 5,300-meter-high Chimboya Mountain
  • Your journey will also take you to the San Pedro de Andahuaylillas Chapel, known as one of the most beautiful ecclesiastical buildings in the Andes due to its lavish decor. 
  • Upon arrival in Cusco, you'll be privately transferred to your hotel.
  • Max Altitude:3,399 m
  • Accommodation:Hotel
  • Meals:Breakfast
  • Transport:Tourist Vehicle
  • You'll have the morning free to take a short walk and capture photos around the Historical Center of the city before your half-day city tour begins. 
  • In the afternoon, you'll enjoy a guided City Tour of Cusco and the surrounding archaeological sites, such as Qorikancha Temple which is most known as the "Temple of the Sun", and "Sacsayhuaman Fortress", a place that served as the venue for the Inti Raymi festival. You'll also visit Tambomachay, located in the upper part of the beautiful city of Cusco.
  • Max Altitude:3,399 m
  • Accommodation:Hotel
  • Meals:Breakfast
  • Transport:Tourist Vehicle
  • After an early breakfast at your hotel in Cusco, our representative will pick you up to start your Sacred Valley tour
  • The first stop will be the City of Pisac, a small town with exquisite architecture that is the perfect place to buy authentic Andean souvenirs, widely known as Artesanias
  • As you browse through the selection of traditional clothing and handicrafts, you'll easily understand why the Pisac market has a reputation of its own. In the afternoon, you'll visit Ollantaytambo, which is an Inca site that began as a palace or fortress but was eventually used as the last Inca stronghold against the invading Spanish conquistadors. After an exciting day of archaeological exploration, you'll board the train to Machu Picchu town, the most worldwide known as Aguas Calientes – at the Ollantaytambo train station. 
  • Upon your arrival in Aguas Calientes, a representative of Abound Holidays will be waiting for you at the Aguas Calientes train station to take you to your hotel.
  • Max Altitude:2,800 m
  • Accommodation:Hotel
  • Meals:Breakfast
  • Transport:Tourist Vehicle
  • The main day of your trip! Be ready to visit the Citadel of Machu Picchu
  • Our representative will pick you up from your hotel to escort you to the Aguas Calientes Bus Station for a 30-minute bus ride to the Citadel of Machu Picchu, where you will have a private guided tour of the citadel. 
  • During your tour, you will be able to visit historical places located in the Citadel of Machu Picchu, like the Sun Stone, Sun Temple, and the Room of the Three Windows
  • After your tour finishes, you will have some free time to explore Aguas Calientes, the charming town nestled at the foot of the mountains.
  • This day promises to be an unforgettable experience, filled with the magic and history of Machu Picchu, coupled with the leisurely exploration of the town.
  • Max Altitude:3,399 m
  • Accommodation:Hotel
  • Meals:Breakfast
  • Transport:Tourist Vehicle
  • As your Peru Inca Trail Machu Picchu comes to an end, you'll bid farewell to the captivating landscapes and cultural experiences of this incredible country with a mix of cherished memories and newfound knowledge. 
  • Our team will ensure a smooth departure by escorting you to the Alejandro Velasco Astete International Airport.
  • As you board your flight, you carry with you the enduring allure of Peru, with the promise of future adventures to come.
  • Transport:Tourist Vehicle

Route Map

Peru Inca Trail to Machu Picchu map
Cost Details
What's Included
  • 24 Hours Assistance
  • Breakfast
  • Entrance Fees
  • Accommodation
  • City Tours
  • Private airport pickup and drops
  • Private vehicle transfers
What's not Included
  • International Flights
  • Travel Insurance
  • Visa
  • Tips for guides and drivers (Expected)
Good to Know
  • Water

While traveling in Peru, it's advisable to drink bottled or purified water to avoid waterborne illnesses. You can find bottled water readily available in most places. Make sure to stay hydrated, especially at higher altitudes, to help prevent altitude sickness.

  • Electricity

Peru generally uses Type A, B, and Type C electrical outlets, with a standard voltage of 220 V and a frequency of 60 Hz. It's a good idea to bring a universal adapter to ensure your devices can be charged.

  • Dress Codes

Dress codes in Peru vary depending on the location and the activity. In cities like Lima and Cusco, casual attire is acceptable. However, when visiting religious sites, such as cathedrals or churches, it's recommended to wear modest clothing that covers shoulders and knees. 

For outdoor activities, particularly on the Inca Trail, dress in layers for changing weather conditions, and don't forget to pack good-quality, comfortable hiking boots.

  • Foods and Allergies

Peruvian cuisine is diverse and delicious, with options ranging from ceviche to alpaca steaks. Be open to trying local dishes, but if you have food allergies, make sure to communicate your dietary restrictions to us before your package confirmation. 

  • Vaccinations

For your Peru tour, you should consider essential vaccinations, including Hepatitis A, Typhoid, and potentially Yellow Fever, based on your travel itinerary. Routine vaccines should also be up to date. Consult a healthcare professional for personalized recommendations and stay informed about travel advisories with us, here to ensure a healthy and safe journey.

  • Budget

Peru can be a budget-friendly destination, but costs can vary widely depending on your preferences and activities. Accommodations, dining, and tours come in a range of options to suit different budgets. 

The Inca Trail trek itself has associated fees, so be sure to factor those into your budget. It's a good idea to have a mix of cash and credit cards for payment, as not all places may accept cards, especially in rural areas. 

Peru Inca Trail to Machu Picchu FAQs

  • The Inca Trail in Peru is a renowned hiking route that leads to the ancient Incan citadel of Machu Picchu. This trail is famous for its archaeological significance and stunning natural beauty, taking hikers through a range of landscapes, from high-altitude mountain passes to lush cloud forests. 

    It's considered one of the most iconic trekking experiences in the world, allowing adventurers to follow in the footsteps of the ancient Incas and explore their impressive ruins along the way.

  • The difficulty of the Inca Trail can vary depending on your fitness level and how well you acclimate to the high altitudes. Overall, it's considered a moderately challenging trek due to the high altitudes, steep and uneven terrain, and the need for acclimatization. Participants should be prepared for several hours of hiking each day, often at high elevations. Proper physical preparation and acclimatization are key to successfully completing the trail.

  • The classic Inca Trail trek covers a distance of approximately 26 miles (43 kilometers) over four days of hiking.

  • Yes, the classic Peru Inca Trail Tour is closed for maintenance every year in February. This temporary closure allows for trail maintenance and environmental preservation efforts. During this time, no treks are permitted on the Inca Trail. However, Machu Picchu itself remains open and can be accessed by alternative routes, such as the train.

  • Yes! Machu Picchu is considered a sacred site. It was originally built by the Incas in the 15th century as an estate for the Inca emperor. The site holds significant religious and ceremonial importance in Inca culture. Its strategic location, stunning architecture, and alignment with celestial events reflect its sacred significance.

  • Yes, seniors can visit Machu Picchu. While the Inca Trail trek may be physically demanding, Machu Picchu itself is accessible to visitors of all ages. The site offers guided tours, and there are options for taking buses from Aguas Calientes to the entrance of Machu Picchu to make the visit more accessible.

  • Machu Picchu is special for many reasons. It's a marvel of Inca architecture, with its well-preserved ruins, terraces, and temples set against a backdrop of breathtaking natural beauty. Its location high in the Andes Mountains adds to its allure. Additionally, Machu Picchu's history and the mystery surrounding its abandonment contribute to its unique charm, making it one of the most iconic and culturally significant archaeological sites in the world.

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