Inca Trail to Machu Picchu

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Highlights

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Itinerary

Highlights

• Starts Cusco/Ends Cusco

• Small group experience; Max 12 people

• Fully escorted by a bilingual tour leader/local guide

• Introductory to Moderate pace delivery

• Hike along the Classic Inca Trail and follow the pilgrimage to the Sanctuary of Machu Picchu

• Enjoy one of the best trekking experiences to Machu Picchu

• Descend to Machu Picchu from the Sun Gate. Two-day visit to Machu Picchu

• Selected departure dates

• Fully customizable - Private tour option

• Twin share and single traveller supplement option. Shared room available option for single travellers

• Early morning guided tour to Machu Picchu - beat the crowds

• Experience the iconic train ride Machu Picchu-Ollantaytambo

Itinerary

Our trek to Machu Picchu starts today! We leave Cusco at 6:30 am towards KM 82 (along the Sacred Valley) to find the starting point of the Inca Trail. At this point, we will meet and greet our porters for the trip. Surrounded by the amazing views of Wakay Willca mountain (5860 mts), the first two hours of the trail will take us downstream the Valley before finding the archaeological remains of Patallacta. Patallacta, strategically built at the confluence of the Izcuchaca and Urubamba rivers and above large agricultural terraces, currently preserves over 100 dwellings carefully distributed in four different sectors interconnected by pathways and stairways. Later in the afternoon we will continue our gentle ascend along the Izcuchaca Valley to reach our camp site for the night at Wayllabamba (3000 mts)

Elevation: 3400/2700/3000 mts (11150/8860/9850 ft)

Activity: Trekking (11 kms/7 hrs)

Explorer Moment: From the lookout point, take a moment to witness the archaeological greatness of Patallacta and its relevance as the entry point of the sacred pilgrimage to Machu Picchu

Accommodation: Camping

Meals: Packed Snacks/Lunch/Dinner

After breakfast, we begin our steep ascend towards the highest point of the trail at Dead Woman's Pass (4200 mts). This 4–5-hour steep climb will take us from lower fertile mountain hillside areas to higher treeless mountain terrain (usually above 3900 mts). Over the tree line, the change in landscape becomes noticeable as well as the lack of oxygen in the air. At Dead Woman's Pass, the views reach as far down the bottom of Valley where the climb started and the imposing presence of high mountain summits (over 5500 mts) all around. Over the Pass, we will descend 2 hours to find our campsite at the semi-tropical valley of Pacaymayu (3600 mts). This section of the Inca trail is well preserved since the solid stone foundations of the path are clearly visible along the steep mountain hillsides.

Elevation: 3000/4220/3600 mts (9850/13280/11800 ft)

Activity: Trekking (12 kms/7-8 hrs)

Explorer Moment: The sense of accomplishment after reaching the top of a mountain is simply beyond words. The beauty surrounding Dead Woman's Pass will leave anyone speechless!

Accommodation: Camping

Meals: Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner.

Leaving the camp site early, we will start climbing (1.5 hrs) towards the second highest point of our journey at Runturakay Pass (3900 mts). Haff way through this climb and overlooking the valley below, we will first visit the Inca site of Runturakay. Over the Pass, the trail will lead us through a steep descend into the cloud forest to reach Sayacmarca Inca site. Amazingly built atop solid rocky mountain foundations on the edge of a precipice, it gathers several dwellings including enclosures with trapezoidal doors, niches and water fountains. Afterwards, we will continue hiking along the cloud forest (2 hrs) before reaching Phuyupatamarka camp (3600 mts). The campsite is located above the Inca site of Phuyupatamarka.

Elevation: 3600/3900/3650 mts (11800,12800,12000 ft)

Activity: Trekking (16 kms/7 hrs)

Explorer Moment: Hiking along the cloud forest is the perfect chance to come across unique flora and fauna species. Try to spot some native orchid species or an elusive hummingbird in the area.

Accommodation: Camping

Meals: Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner

We will start our last day of the hike by exploring the archaeological remains of Phuyupatamarka (Place above the Clouds) before descending into the tropical hillsides of the Urubamba Valley. After a steep 2-hour descend through dense tropical forest, we will find the Inca site of Wiñay Wayna (2700 mts). Located on a steep hillside overlooking the valley, it is the last resting and ceremonial stop before reaching the sanctuary of Machu Picchu. From here, the last stretch of the journey will initially take us through the Sun Gate where we will get the first view of Machu Picchu. Later, we will descend to Machu Picchu in our last 45 minutes of the hike. We will find Machu Picchu's traditional view right at the end of the Inca Trail. We will spend plenty of time witnessing the marvellous Inca architecture before making out way down (by bus) to Aguas Calientes where we will find our accommodation for the night.

Elevation:3650/2700/2000 mt (12000/8860/6560 ft)

Activity: Trekking (17 Kms/7 hrs)

Explorer Moment: Reaching Machu Picchu from the Sun gate is truly an amazing experience. As you get closer to the citadel, it becomes easier to understand why it is one of Wonders of the World!!

Accommodation: Hotel Mapi or similar.

Meals: Breakfast

Our visit to Machu Picchu is today. Leaving early (6:00 am), we will catch a bus to take us up the mountain to the Inca citadel (2400 mts). We will enjoy a guided tour (2 hrs) through the most important areas of the monument including temples, royal houses, terraces, and water fountains. Following the new regulations to protect and preserve Machu Picchu, visitors are limited to a predetermined route and time during their visit. Visitors must be always accompanied by a licensed guide during this time. There is an optional service to climb Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain (The availability of tickets for these options is quite limited). After our visit, we will catch our bus down to Aguas Calientes for lunch and our final look around in town before catching a late afternoon train back to Ollantaytambo. From this train station, our private bus will drive us back to our hotel in Cusco (8-9 pm arrival)

Elevation: 2000/2400/3400 mts (6560/8000/11150 ft)

Activity: Sightseeing/Exploring at your own pace

Explorer Moment: Enjoy every moment of your visit to Machu Picchu. It is unique and magical

Accommodation: None

Meals: Breakfast

• Andean Explorer Tours leader and bilingual local guides where applicable.

• 1 night hotel accommodation/3 nights camping

• Machu Picchu entry permit (circuit 2) and early morning guided tour (2-2:30 mins tour)

• Return bus ticket Aguas Calientes-Machu Picchu-Aguas Calientes

• Train tickets Aguas Calientes-Ollantaytambo (Vistadome upgrade for $200/ticket return)

• Duffle Bag for personal belongings- during hike

• Group camping equipment - during hike

• Pack animals or Porters to carry personal gear (7kgs/person max) - during hike

• Water on the trail

• First aid kit including oxygen tanks for altitude sickness prevention

• Meals as specified in the itinerary (4 breakfasts/4 lunches/3 dinners)

Included:

• Altitude. Cusco city is located at 3350 metres above sea level. Some visitors may experience and develop altitude sickness. The most common symptoms include tiredness, headaches, shortness of breath and in some instances loss of appetite/nausea. People tend to acclimatize in diverse ways. If you initially experience any altitude related symptoms, we recommend taking your time during activities, resting, and drinking plenty of water. It is recommended to spend a few days in Cusco prior to the start of the trek. Alternatively, all our tour operations carry emergency oxygen tanks for severe altitude sickness prevention. Your dedicated Andean Explorer Leader will provide Oxygen supply if required.

• Pace and Mobility. This tour is expected to run at a moderate pace. We will reach the start of the trail by private bus, and we will be trekking through high altitude areas. There might be some long travel days between destinations (2-3 hrs) and long hiking days through remote high-altitude mountain & tropical areas (7-9 hrs). We will be camping three consecutive nights in basic conditions. Some guided visits require walking up and down uneven cobblestone pathways and stairs. Trekking for this trip will rarely involve flat terrain. The guided tour in Machu Picchu is 2-2.5 hours long. It is only done on foot and scheduled to run at a fixed time limit. This trip is unsuitable for visitors with impaired mobility. You will be required to move about unassisted, including handling your luggage, getting on and of vehicles and lining up at check points.

• Trip Grading: This trip is rated Introductory to Moderate. It involves a combination of introductory acclimatisation walks and moderate trekking through remote areas. The terrain includes steep undulations, rocky surfaces, and uneven cobblestone grounds. You will need a reasonable level of fitness-good health and be comfortable camping for consecutive days in basic conditions.

• Suggested Preparation: The fitter you are, the more you will enjoy this trip. At least a few months prior to departure, you should try an active exercise routine on a regular basis. This should include hard walking, jogging, leg strengthening and aerobic fitness. Please discuss the right exercise routine for you with your fitness instructor.

• Flexibility. This trip will be conducted as outlined in the itinerary. This includes plenty of time to explore at your own pace. Refer to our Terms and Conditions for further details.

• Trip Logistics: The Salkantay trek is only possible due to the hard work and dedication of our horsemen. They transport on mules all the outdoor equipment needed and all hiker's personal belongings. There is an allowance of 7 kilos (including sleeping bag) per hiker to bring along the hike. You are required to pack your personal items for the hike with the duffle bags provided the night before the start. Luggage storage will be provided in Cusco for all your equipment no needed during the hike.

Explore the Facts:

• Domestic flights

• Comprehensive Travel Insurance (compulsory)

• Visas

• Huayna Picchu entry permit ($85/pp - please enquire)

• Add on activities or excursions not listed in the itinerary

• Sleeping bags and trekking poles (rentals available in Cusco)

• Meals not listed in the itinerary (breakfast day 1-lunch day 5)

• Items of personal nature

• Gratuities for porters/local guides

Not Included:

Inclusions

The Unexpected Element

Adventure travel in third world countries involves a degree of unpredictability. Tour operations in remote areas are also subject to this degree of uncertainty and itineraries may be changed. Basic standards in remote areas in this trip are significantly different than the ones at home. For those situations outside your comfort zone, your flexibility, positive attitude, and sense of adventure is a must have. This is how unforgettable lifetime experiences are made of!

• Payment Terms. You can secure your booking with an initial non-refundable 50% deposit of the total (See Terms & Conditions). The remaining balance is due two months prior to departure date.

• Flights. International/Domestic flights are not included in this service.

• Service Transfers. We will pick you up from your accommodation on day 1 and bring you back on day 5

• Camping. Outdoor camping (3nts). This service includes all camping equipment (except personal sleeping bag, trekking poles).

• Horsemen & Horses: During the hike, mules will carry all outdoor equipment and hiker's equipment (7 kilos per hiker including sleeping bag)

• Transport. Private vehicles, shared transfer buses, train.

• Group Leader. This is a fully escorted service. A bilingual Peru Explorer Tours representative always accompanies this trip. A certified bilingual speaking local guide will provide the guided tour in Machu Picchu.

• Travellers and Group Dynamics. There is a minimum number of travellers to run this trip. The maximum number of travellers for this trip is twelve. This trip will run following the activities listed in the itinerary. However, at any time, feel free to stay and explore our destinations at your own pace.

• Travel Insurance - A comprehensive travel insurance cover is compulsory for this trip. Copies of travel insurance certificates will be collected prior to departure.

• Passport & Visas. All travellers are required to have a valid passport (minimum 6 months). It is the traveller's responsibility to have the correct travel documentation. Contact your local embassy or consulate for all your visa requirements.

• Meals. 4 breakfasts, 4 lunches and 3 dinners are included. Meals are not included where there is a choice of eating options. Food in Peru is affordable and tasty. Please advise of any dietary requirements

• Tipping. Tips are not included in this package. While tipping is not compulsory, it is of customary practice and given as a token of appreciation for great customer service.

Fine Print

Inca Trail to Machu Picchu

Explore this unique trail along stunning landscapes and the Holy Inca Pathway t to Machu Picchu

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"From the breathtaking landscapes to the rich cultural experiences, our tour with Peru Explorers was truly one-of-a-kind. We can't wait to come back!" —

Denise C.

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"An unforgettable experience! The tour guides were incredibly knowledgeable, and we felt immersed in the culture and history of Peru. Highly recommended!" — Andrew P.

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