2010 Price: $2,095 per person, land package only
Single Supplement: $430
2010 Dates: Jan 21; Feb 25; Mar 25; Apr 22; May 20; Jun 15*, 21*; Jul 15; Aug 12; Sep 9; Oct 7; Nov 4; Dec 2, 23
*Inti Raymi Departure (11 days). Please add $345 for extra day
2011 Dates: May 13
Walk in the footsteps of the Incas on one of the world's oldest pilgrimages. The 4-day Inca Trail is an exciting high mountain experience where we climb up to 4200 meters, passing glacier covered peaks and descending into lush green cloudforest. To acclimatize for the trek, spend a few days in Cusco and the Sacred Valley, exploring ruins and bargaining at busy Andean markets.
Day 1 : Arrive Lima
Day 2 : Fly to Cusco
An early morning flight brings you to the Inca capital of Cusco where Quechua speaking descendents of the Incas move back and forth in the busy plazas and markets. Colonial churches sit atop bases of smooth stonework laid centuries before the arrival of the Conquistadors. The morning is yours to explore Cusco's narrow streets and bustling markets. In the afternoon, we tour Cusco's traditional markets talking to the women selling natural medicines and charms for curing heartache and other afflictions. Afterwards, we head off to the old neighborhood of San Blas and a possible visit to a local artisan's workshop.
Day 3 : Cusco Free Day
Today is free to relax and explore on your own. Travelers can go on a city tour of the churches and surrounding ruins, wander through Cusco's busy center, shop in local markets and just people watch in the Plaza de Armas. Many adventure tours are offered as well. The night is yours to take in some of Cusco's varied and exciting nightlife.
Day 4 : Sacred Valley of the Incas
The Sacred Valley is an area full of major Inca ruins and ancient villages. We visit the Pisac market for local tapestries, explore the Pisac ruins, and take a two-hour walk through the countryside near the village of Moray. Eventually, you will make your way to the living Inca city of Ollantaytambo. Tonight, relax and sip wine in front of a fire beneath the ruins of Ollantaytambo as you prepare for your trek on the Inca Trail.
Day 5-8 : Pilgrimage on the Inca Trail (3B,3L,3D)
Walk in the footsteps of the great Inca civilization as we journey along their ancient route to the sacred city of Machu Picchu. Andean history comes to life along this ancient route as each day you pass ever larger ruins. Scenery changes from snowcapped mountains to lush green cloudforest. The trek is made with pilgrims from all over the world, and our friendly crew of guides and porters take great care of us along the way. On Day 8, the group wakes early for a short walk to the Sun Gate to watch the sunrise over Machu Picchu. Tonight relax in the village of Aguas Calientes below the ruins.
Trek Details:
Day 5 - KM 82 TO WAYLLABAMBA -- Trek length: 7.5 miles (4-6 hrs); Camp elevation: 9,840 ft
Day 6 - WAYLLABAMBA TO PACAYMAYO -- Trek length: 7.5 miles (5-6 hrs); Camp elevation: 12,000 ft.
Day 7 - PACAYMAYO TO PHUYUPATAMARCA --Trek length: 7 miles (5-6 hrs); Camp elevation: 11,930 ft
Day 8 - PHUYUPATAMARCA TO MACHU PICCHU -- Trek length: 8.1 miles (5-7 hrs); Machu Picchu elevation: 7,875 ft
Day 9 : Machu Picchu/Cusco
Explore the ruins today at leisure and enjoy the ancient city in the tranquil morning hours. Later head off through thick cloudforest to the seldom visited Temple of the Moon or climb Huayna Picchu overlooking the ruins. Return by train to Cusco in the afternoon.
Day 10 : Fly Lima and Return Home
Included:
- 6 nights comfortable hotels, 3 nights camping on the Inca Trail
- Continental breakfast on most mornings
- All meals as indicated (B = Breakfast, L = Lunch, D = Dinner)
- Transportation including two local flights, buses, train and your own feet on the Inca Trail
- Guide for duration of tour
- Porters for camping gear and packs while on trail
Not Included:
- International airfare
- Roundtrip flight Lima-Cosco-Lima (approx. $310)
- Any increase to entrance fee by the national park (tour cost assumes the Inca Trail entrance is $80)
- International departure tax ($28)
- Local departure tax ($10)
- Allow US$160 for meals not included
- Gratuities
Is this trip for me?
An active itinerary of snowcapped mountains, ancient ruins, a rural pueblo and a vibrant colonial city. The Inca Trail is a moderate to difficult four-day hike so travelers should be fit.
