WHAT WILL YOU EXPERIENCE ON THIS JOURNEY?
This package will not only show you the traditional side of Cusco but will be filled with stunning archaeological sites and spectacular scenery, culminating in the majestic citadel of Machu Picchu.
You will be picked up from your hotel to board your flight to Cusco.
Arrival at Cusco airport, reception, and transfer to the selected hotel.
Free afternoon to acclimatize to the altitude of Cusco.
In the afternoon, an expert guide will take you to some of the world’s best archeological sites, including the beautiful Cusco Cathedral, Qoricancha, the spectacular Sacsayhuaman fortress and Qenqo archaeological site.
Visit the ruins and the village of Pisaq, where will be able to appreciate a handicraft fair where you will have the opportunity to buy a great variety of products.
Later, we will have lunch in a tourist restaurant and continue to the military fortress of Ollantaytambo.
Start your day early with a pick-up from your hotel to Ollantaytambo. Here you will collect your trekking equipment and meet the rest of your team before continuing by bus to Piscacucho (Km. 82), where the Inca Trail starts.
You will walk along the valley until continuing on a steeper path toward a high plateau. Your efforts will be rewarded by a spectacular view of the beautiful Inca construction known as Patallacta. Continue walking for a long the Cusichaca river, a tributary of the river Urubamba.
After lunch, you will continue the trek for another two hours until you reach the first campsite of Wayllabamba. This is the highlight of the day as it includes breathtaking views of the Vilcanota ridge.
The second day is the most rigorous, when you will reach the highest elevation sections of the Inca Trail, so you are encouraged to take your time.
The walk is arduous, with a long steep climb to the Abra de Warmiwañusca. Once you cross the pass, a winding path of steps descends steeply across a natural valley and to the next campsite. During this last part of the trek it is possible to observe different types of wild birds. Today you will end your hike at the Pacaymayo Valley campsite.
Here you will have dinner and take a well-deserved rest after a strenuous day on the trail.
After breakfast, the hike continues along a path rich with archaeological treasures.
A steep climb will lead you to the Runkurakay Pass. Continue wandering past picture-perfect mountain vistas and lakeside villages, before reaching the ruins of Conchamarca and Phuyupatamarca. Then continue descending until we reach one of the most beautiful Inca buildings in the area: the ruins of Wiñaywayna.
This will be the night in which we will say goodbye to our porters and collaborators of the excursion, so we will have a small party to thank everyone for having shared with the group this beautiful experience.
At 04:00 Hrs. to go quickly to the control gate to enter the trail that will take us directly to the citadel of Machu Picchu.
After walking for about an hour and a half, we will arrive at the "Inti Punko", or Sun Gate. At this point we can rest for a few minutes, take pictures of the group, to finally descend to reach the recognized as one of the seven wonders of the world: "Machu Picchu".
In the afternoon, you will take a comfortable train back to Ollantaytambo and then be transferred to your Cusco hotel for the evening.
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.
Why Trust Us?
We accept the following payment methods:
Once the first deposit is made, you must confirm us by email and when the money is in our bank account, we will send you the confirmation of your reservation.
The best time to visit Peru is during the dry season, which runs from May to October. However, Peru is a beautiful country to visit year-round
A valid passport with at least six months of validity remaining is required for entry into Peru. US citizens do not need a visa to visit Peru for tourism purposes for up to 90 days. You may be asked to show evidence of onward travel (e.g., a flight ticket out of Peru) upon arrival.
The official currency of Peru is the Peruvian sol (PEN). You can exchange US dollars for Peruvian soles at banks, currency exchange bureaus, and hotels. Credit cards are widely accepted in Peru, but it is always a good idea to have some cash on hand.
Because Peru also has drastic differences in altitude, large temperature variations can be experienced within the same region, and between day and night. Therefore, it is best to be prepared for both hot and cold weather. Bringing some t-shirts, long-sleeved blouses, comfortable pants, thicker sweaters and a suitable coat is the best idea.
Many of the sacred sites of antiquity, such as Machu Picchu, and also the Inca Trails, are located in areas that vary from mild to challenging hiking terrain, so proper trekking shoes are a must for your personal safety and a pleasant travel experience. Shoes should be comfortable and have a good sole. Closed-toe shoes are best for keeping your feet warm, safe and protected, but you may enjoy a pair of sandals on city tours, especially if you are staying in the coastal regions of Peru.
One of the most common ailments for newcomers to the highlands of Peru is altitude sickness. This can range from headache, shortness of breath and fatigue to insomnia, heart palpitations.
Give yourself at least 12 hours for acclimatization (e.g., stay in the city of Cusco, which is 11,154 feet -3,400 meters- above sea level). The body will begin to adapt automatically; avoid any strenuous physical activity until you feel ready.
Avoid tobacco and alcohol, as well as stimulants such as coffee or energy drinks. Drink plenty of bottled water, staying hydrated is highly recommended. Also, coca leaf tea is a millenary Andean secret: it gives you a great mental and physical boost, it also helps digestion. Another good measure is to eat as light as possible, especially skipping fatty foods. In case you still need pills for headaches, slow digestion, etc., consult your doctor first.
Peruvian cuisine is a fusion of indigenous and Spanish influences. Some popular Peruvian dishes include ceviche, lomo saltado, and aji de gallina. Be sure to try some of Peru’s delicious fruits and vegetables, such as lucuma, chirimoya, and passion fruit.
