Trekking an Inca trail past stunning Andean peaks, turquoise glacial lakes, and remote Quechuan settlements; this is Peru at its most authentic.

A day of hiking in Peru will surely create indelible memories - 11 days of hiking and trekking may change you forever. After several days of hiking to acclimatize to the altitude, exploring the rich cultural centers of Cusco and the Sacred Valley, we trek on an unfrequented trail, clearing high passes and descending into gorgeous hidden valleys that are populated only by families living a traditional agricultural life - growing potatoes and raising sheep and alpaca. The trails we follow are those that have been used for centuries by these campesinos to move flocks and carry produce to trade in village centers. Our trekking culminates as any trip to Peru should: following the Inca trail to the famed lost city of Machu Picchu.

Days 1-2: Our trekking tour begins in Cusco, Peru (elevation 11,150 feet). Explore the great cathedrals of this ancient Inca and Spanish hub. Embark on an acclimatization hike (about 12,000 feet) past the Inca sites of Tambomachay, Q’enqo and Sacsayhuaman.

Days 3-4: Move to the Sacred Valley, defined by the Urubamba River, and explore the ancient sites of Pisac and Ollantaytambo (where the Inca's defended the valley against the Spanish invasion), and festive local markets.

Days 5-9: Trek an Inca trail through remote valleys and over stunning high passes, meeting campesinos and their children, and discovering remnants of the ancient Inca culture along the way. Be awestruck, as the Inca were, by spectacular views of the perfect snowcapped peaks of Mt. Verónica (17,550 feet) and Salcantay (20,550 feet). Our final day of trekking the Inca trail brings us through astonishing mountain scenery past the striking ruins of Wiñay Wayna, through Intipunku (the Gate of the Sun), and into the lost city of Machu Picchu.*

Day 10: Immerse yourself in the wonder of Machu Picchu, with a full day of exploration, including the serene hour of sunrise for those who wish to wake early. Return to Cusco by train for a celebratory dinner. Relax in the comfort of our well-located hotel.

Day 11: Depart from Cusco.

*Please note that Inca Trail trekking permits are limited and issued 'first come, first served,' so you are encouraged to reserve early.

• A passion for travel. Simply put, we love to travel, and that is woven into every one of our journeys.
   
• Unique, award-winning itineraries. Our flexible, hand-crafted journeys have received accolades from the world’s most revered travel publications.
   
• Insider connections. There is simply no substitute for traveling with a knowledgeable insider.
   
• Small groups. We tread softly, and our average group size is just 6-8 guests.
   
• Flexibility to suit your travel style. We offer both small-group departures and Private Collection trips, so that you can choose which works best for you.
   
• Customer service that goes the extra mile. There is no request that is too big – or too small – for our staff to handle.
   
• Sustainability. We are committed to traveling responsibly – striving to preserve traditions and cultures around the world, and to protect fragile natural habitats.

Most Convenient Airport:
Jorge Chavez Lima - Calleo International Airport, Lima, Peru (LIM) for international arrivals, and Cusco Valazco Astete Airport, Cusco, Peru (CUZ) for domestic arrivals from Lima.

Meeting Time and Place:
12:30 p.m. in the lobby of the Hotel Novotel in downtown Cusco.

Departure Time and Place:
Cusco airport in time for your departing flights to Lima on the last day of the trip.

WHAT TO EXPECT

Physical Activity
Boundless Journeys' trips are designed for energetic and flexible individuals who like to be active and have a spirit of adventure and a positive attitude. Trekking the Hidden Inca Trail is rated 4+, moderate to strenuous, on a scale of 1-5 (with 5 being the most strenuous).  The moderate acclimatization hikes on this trip are 3-5 hours at 8,000-12,500 feet, with occasional vehicle support. During the trek (four nights) we will have no vehicle support. The hikes during this time are more strenuous due to length (5-6 hours per day) and altitude (7,000-14,750 feet). The trails are generally in good condition, with some loose rocks, and the ascents and descents are mostly gentle, with rare steeper sections.

Preparing for this Trip
This trip requires an above average level of fitness. It is very important that you realistically assess your physical condition with regard to the demands of this trip. The more well-prepared you are for the activities on this trip, the more you will enjoy yourself! We suggest vigorously walking/hiking 3-5 miles, several times a week, for 4-6 weeks before the trip. If you live in a flat area, incorporate some stairs into your workout, or use a treadmill with varying incline capability.  Consult your doctor before undertaking any new fitness programs. We encourage you to speak with our staff if you have any doubts regarding your physical match with this tour.

The Trek
Our trek from Parpishu (located in a narrow canyon between Cusco and the Sacred Valley) to Machu Picchu covers approximately 28 miles over five days. The relatively short distances covered each day allow us to take our time to adjust to the altitude during the trek, which ranges from 7,000 to 14,750 feet at the highest point. The trek is designed so that we gain elevation and clear the highest point of the day in the morning. We'll then descend to a picnic spot. After a leisurely lunch prepared by our camp chefs, we continue hiking to our camp for the night. Our camps are always at a lower elevation than the highest point cleared that day to avoid complications that can occur when too much time is spent at high altitude.

We use high-tech, two-person, three-season tents for sleeping, and share well-kept toilet and dining tents. Upon arrival at camp mid-afternoon, your bags will be at your tent, and you will have time to relax before dinner. Hot water is provided upon arrival for washing. Tea and snacks are served in the afternoon, and dinner is usually at about 7:00 p.m. In the morning, we wake early, and our camp chefs bring hot water for washing, coffee, and coca tea to our tents. Breakfast is served shortly after, and you need only repack your bags before we leave camp for the day's hike.

We are supported in the trek by a team of pack horses and their handlers, or arrieros. They will carry our luggage, except for the items packed in your backpack (for example, water, camera, and an extra layer of clothing). The tents are set up and taken down each day by the camp staff, and they make their way ahead of us to the next camp so that everything is ready for our arrival in the afternoon.

The Altitude
Peru's geography is as diverse as its culture, with altitudes from sea level to over 22,000 feet. Our trip begins and ends in Cusco, which is situated at 11,150 feet, in the foothills of the Andes. After two nights, we move to the Sacred Valley, and our hotel is located at 9,350 feet. The trek begins on the fourth day, and elevations are noted along with each day's description. Our third hotel, in the town of Machu Picchu, is located at about 6,500 feet. Our hikes will take place at elevations of 7,000 feet to approximately 14,750 feet. There is time to move at a comfortable pace, allowing ourselves to adjust to the mountain air. Keeping well hydrated, avoiding excessive alcohol, eating frequent, light meals, and getting plenty of rest will help with any effects of altitude that you may feel.

Weather
The mountainous areas of Peru have pronounced rainy and dry seasons, which are more responsible for the prevailing weather conditions than seasonal temperature fluctuations. While the dry season lasts only from May through September, the most significant rains fall from January through March. Temperatures do not fluctuate as much, although nights do tend to be colder from May through September, and nighttime frost and some snow is possible at higher elevations in July. Any time of year, dressing in layers is a good strategy, so that you can shed or add layers as the day heats and cools.

The following are average temperatures in Cusco (in the mountains you can expect the low temperatures to be in the 20s):
            high          low

May:    67°F        39°F
July:    66°F        34°F
Sept:   67°F        41°F

You may obtain more detailed weather information by visiting www.weatherbase.com.

When to Reserve
It is important to reserve your trip early, as the Peruvian government has a permit system which strictly limits the number of hikers on the trail at any given time. Permits can only be confirmed upon receipt of your deposit and passport information. If you dream of hiking into Machu Picchu on the Inca Trail, now is the time to reserve. Please contact our office with any questions regarding this important new regulation.

When to Go
Peru is generally delightful for hiking from April through December. We avoid scheduling trips from January through March as this is the height of the rainy season. That being said, the hillsides and valleys tend to be greener in April, May and June. Later in the dry season the fields turn golden, and the campesinos harvest their crops.

Traveler's Responsibility
Trip participants have certain responsibilities to both Boundless Journeys and your fellow travelers. This includes understanding the conditions described in the trip itinerary and making sure it is appropriate for your interests and abilities, based on a review of the trip ratings, consultation with Boundless Journeys' staff, and perhaps your doctor. In addition, trip participants are responsible for preparing for a trip by undertaking the proper fitness training. At the guide's discretion, a participant may be asked to leave the trip if the guide feels that the person's further participation may be detrimental to the individual or to other trip participants. If you have any questions about the difficulty level of the trip you have chosen, please contact Boundless Journeys to speak with one of our Destination Managers.

Small group travel affords us the opportunity to seek out the most remote and exotic destinations on the planet. Often we are exploring these locales with just 6-12 guests. The nature of active group travel is such that not all participants have the same ability level or interests. Traveling at a pace that is comfortable for the entire group, with a spirit of flexibility and adventure are all part of this intimate experience.
 

Overview: Well-located Cusco hotel, fine historic country lodges (all private baths), and four nights full service camping with shared bathroom facilities.


Nights 1 &2: Hotel Novotel
Cusco, Peru
               
Built to incorporate an early 16th-century house, this well-located hotel in the heart of historic Cusco showcases the exceptional style of colonial architecture.

Nights 3 & 4: Posada del Inca
Yucay, Peru
                   
This country lodge is located on the site of a restored, 350-year-old monastery surrounded by the foothills of the Andes. Property features include a quaint chapel, restaurant, gift shop, and lounge.

Nights 5, 6, 7 & 8: Hidden Inca Trail Trek, full service camping

We use high-tech, two-person, three-season tents for sleeping, and share well-kept toilet and dining tents. Upon arrival at camp mid-afternoon, your bags will be at your tent, and you will have time to relax before dinner. Hot water is provided upon arrival for washing. Tea and snacks are served in the afternoon, and dinner is usually at about 7:00 p.m. In the morning, we wake early, and our camp chefs bring hot water for washing, coffee, and coca tea to our tents. Breakfast is served shortly after, and you need only repack your bags before we leave camp for the day’s hike.

Night 9: Machu Picchu Pueblo Hotel
Machu Picchu Pueblo, Peru

Highest rated hotel in Machu Picchu region (Travel + Leisure, "World's Best Hotels")
                  
With Andean-style individual bungalows in a quiet riverside spot in the town of Machu Picchu Pueblo, this acclaimed hotel is renowned for its progressive sustainability programs. An impressive tropical garden showcasing a wide variety of native plant species, stone paths, and canals flowing with spring water create a special atmosphere.

Night 10: Hotel Novotel
Cusco, Peru
               
Built to incorporate an early 16th-century house, this well-located hotel in the heart of historic Cusco showcases the exceptional style of colonial architecture.
 

DAY 1
Arrival to Cusco; afternoon city tour

Walking – easy, 3 hours.

We begin our exploration of the Land of the Incas in the city of Cusco (11,150'), a name taken from the Quechua word for “naval” or “center".  Here, dramatic Spanish colonial architecture blends with solid Inca masonry in a harmony belying the area's tumultuous history.  Throughout the city are prime examples of colonial buildings that are built on top of ancient Inca foundations. The stonework of the Incas is unsurpassed by that of any other culture.  Massive rocks were painstakingly ground to fit so perfectly together that no mortar was needed, and many walls have remained for over 500 years in spite of regular tremors. This afternoon we enjoy a walking tour of the city's historic center with our guides, who lay the foundation for our understanding of the Inca way of life that we will encounter in the coming days. This afternoon we have time to relax before dinner at a favorite local restaurant.
Hotel Novotel, Cusco, Peru

DAY 2
Tambomachay to Sacsayhuaman

Hiking – easy to moderate, 3-4 hours on hiking trails; approximate elevation loss of 1,000'.

Outside Cusco, the landscape quickly becomes agricultural. We drive to the ruins of Tambomachay, or El Baño del Inca. The ancient ceremonial bath marks the beginning of our first acclimatization hike (beginning at about 12,500'), through scenic farmland and past the archeological sites of Pukapukara and Q'enqo, and finally reaching the impressive Sacsayhuaman, where we encounter our first example of the huge boulders the Incas used in building temples and fortresses. Along the way, we enjoy views of the Cusco valley and snowcapped Andean peaks in the distance. 

This evening you are free to further explore Cusco, and our guides will be happy to make recommendations from the diverse and excellent eateries in the area, or you may choose to enjoy dinner at our hotel's fine restaurant.
Hotel Novotel, Cusco, Peru

DAY 3
Pisac and the Sacred Valley

Hiking – easy to moderate, 2-4 hours on trails with some stone stairs; approximate elevation loss of 1,800'.

This morning we leave Cusco and head for the Sacred Valley.  As we enter the valley, it is evident why this area was an important cultural and agricultural region for the Incas. The climate is pleasant, and generally is a bit warmer than Cusco due to its lower elevation (about 9,300'). Crops flourished here, and ancient terraces remain in testament to the fertility of the land. At Pisac, we begin today's hike.  The well-preserved ruins above the town offer excellent views and further insight into the spiritual life of the Incas. After exploring Pisac, we may hike from the ruins into the town 1,800' feet below, where we visit the local market and have the opportunity to bargain for pottery and colorful Peruvian weavings.  

Later this afternoon, we arrive at the hotel were we'll be staying for the next two nights, a charming country lodge on the site of a restored 350-year-old monastery.
Posada del Inca, Yucay, Peru

DAY 4
Mountain Village and Ollantaytambo

Hiking – easy to moderate, 4-5 hours on dirt roads and trails; some steep stone stairs at ruins.

Today we begin our hike in a mountain village near the town of Ollantaytambo. After a short visit to the local school, we depart Patacancha on foot, passing through the small village of Huillac. Taking our time on foot allows us a glimpse of the agricultural life the campesinos have lived for centuries, growing wheat and potatoes, and raising sheep and guinea pigs. We pass through remote areas where we may see isolated herds of llama or alpaca roaming amid the patchwork of cultivated fields. After a picnic lunch we return to Ollantaytambo, a charming town of cobblestone streets, ingenious aqueducts, and colorful market stalls at the base of an impressive ruin. Exactly how the Incas moved the rose-colored stone blocks from their quarry miles away is a mystery to this day.  This spot at a narrow part of the valley is the only place where the Incas managed to stave off the Spanish conquest. By using their canals to flood the valley floor, they were able to prevent the invaders' advances.

Tonight we enjoy a hearty dinner and a restful evening in preparation for our trek.
Posada del Inca, Yucay, Peru

DAY 5
Begin trekking: Parpishu to Chilipahua

Trekking – moderately strenuous, 5-6 hours.

Beginning elevation: 10,000’

Highest elevation: 12,800’

End/Campsite elevation: 11,500’

Our trek begins in the Pumatales Valley, a deep gorge spliced by the Rio Huarocondo.  The ancient trail, still used today by goat, sheep, and cattle farmers, ascends steadily toward the Watuq’asa pass. We take our time, stopping now and then to appreciate the amazing views of Mt. Chicon (17,500’), Mt. Verónika (18,641’) and Mt. Pumahuanca (17,500’). As we approach the pass, the Inca walls of Qosqoq’awarina come into view. At the head of the pass we enjoy lunch amid the ruins. After our meal there is time to relax or climb the last 300 feet to the top of the ancient watch tower, where 360˚ views reward our efforts. Continuing, we descend into the valley of Anapahua, where lush green terraces replace the dry landscape of the beginning of the day. This afternoon we arrive in Chilipahua, a tiny hamlet where we make our camp. As the farmers gather their livestock from the surrounding hills, children from the nearby farms may try to tempt you to kick a soccer ball around before sunset.
Full service camping, Peru

DAY 6
Chilipahua to Ancascocha

Trekking – strenuous, 5-6 hours.

Beginning elevation: 11,500’

Highest elevation: 14,750’

End/Campsite elevation: 12,700’

At dawn, our camp chefs wake us with steaming cups of coca tea brought to our tents. The ubiquitous dried coca leaves make a wonderful tea that provides energy at high altitudes – the reason for its immense popularity among those living in the mountains of Peru. There is time to wake up gradually, feeling the early sun warm our tents. After a breakfast of granola, yogurt, and eggs or maybe pancakes, we begin our hike while our arrieros (horse handlers) break camp and pack the horses. Our trail gradually ascends to the Pampaq’asa pass, and along the way we are likely to meet local farmers bringing potatoes to the lower villages to trade for rice and sugar. After about an hour, we take a break for a snack of fruit, chocolate, and nuts before continuing up through the farmland to the pass. Here, at 14,750 feet, we are at the highest point of our journey. To our right, a hidden valley, the remains of a glacial lake, is now a perfect grazing land for horses.

As we clear the pass, the landscape changes entirely. Before us lies a beautiful valley and the tumbling waters of the Rio Silque. After descending steeply from the pass, we enjoy lunch, perhaps homemade soup and freshly prepared salads, on the bank of the river. Local children often bring their flocks of sheep to graze nearby, and we enjoy the idyllic setting with them, watching for Caracara Hawks and majestic Andean Condors circling overhead.

We leave our lunch spot, gently descending through pastureland populated by sheep, cows, and horses. These animals and the occasional inquisitive Quechua child are often the only witnesses to our presence. Looking north, we are treated to dramatic views of the snowcapped peak of Verónika, beautifully framed by the green valley.

We arrive to our waiting tents on the flanks of Mt. Huayanay (17,500’), whose glaciers hang above the valley floor, feeding the river running by our camp.
Full service camping, Peru

DAY 7
Ancascocha to Camicancha

Trekking – moderate to strenuous, 5-6 hours.

Beginning elevation: 12,700’

Highest elevation: 12,700’

End/Campsite elevation: 9,700’

By now we are accustomed to the morning chill disappearing by breakfast as the sun warms the mountains. Today’s hike is a bit easier, as we start trekking down through a narrow valley, full of red Masdevallia orchids, known locally as huakanki. Our trail threads across several bridges over a small mountain river.

As we make our way across fields of rocky scree, going up and down, we enjoy nearly constant views of impressive Mt. Verónika across the Sacred Valley. After lunch at a scenic resting spot, we continue to descend. After some time, we enter a eucalyptus grove, captivatingly lush after days spent above tree line in the mountains. By mid-afternoon, we arrive at the tiny community of Camicancha, where we will camp tonight. Local children, as always, are eager to greet us and share some of their produce. 
Full service camping, Peru

DAY 8
Camicancha to Piscaycucho

Trekking – easy to moderate, 5-6 hours.

Beginning elevation: 9,700’

Highest elevation: 9,700’

End/Campsite elevation: 8,975’

This morning we find ourselves slowly re-entering civilization. Our route follows a wide, relatively flat dirt track along the Rio Silque before narrowing again. We pass the occasional home, slightly more complex than the simple dwellings we’ve encountered in the past days.

Our trail follows the contours of the Sacred Valley, winding through eucalyptus groves and hillsides boasting impressive cacti. Everywhere, signs of the intense farming during Inca times can be seen in the many terraced fields.

By mid-afternoon, we reach our final camp site, at Piscaycucho, on the Urubamba River. Here, we may meet other trekkers and compare stories of our travels. We camp in relative luxury tonight, with complete indoor dining facilities, hot showers, and even a sauna to revive weary muscles!
Full service camping, Peru

DAY 9
Piscaycucho to Machu Picchu

Trekking – moderately strenuous, 6-7 hours.

Beginning elevation: 6,259

Highest elevation: 8,860’

End elevation: 7,970’

Our trek ends today hiking the final miles into Machu Picchu on the classic Inca Trail. We begin with a scenic train ride from Piscaycucho to the start of our hike. Our train has large windows and a glass ceiling, allowing everyone to enjoy amazing views of the Andes rising precipitously above us. After about 40 minutes, we disembark at kilometer 104, and begin the final hike of our trek. We soon come upon Chachabamba, a small Inca village in ruins. Our trail continues to climb, switching back and forth across the steep hillside. The views are spectacular, and we may begin to recognize some of the steep, forest covered mountains that surround Machu Picchu, although the lost citadel remains out of sight.

After 3-4 hours, the trail becomes more forested and we turn a corner to see the picture-perfect ruins of Wiñya Wayna before us. We take time to have lunch at the ruins, and marvel at the ingenuity of the people who created this complex village in such an unlikely place. From Wiñya Wayna, the trail begins to evoke a sense of history; ancient stone steps, pavements and complex retaining walls, still half covered with vegetation, surround us. A final steep ascent brings us to Intipunku (the Gate of the Sun), and as we come through the gate, the first unforgettable sight of Machu Picchu emerges below us. We have a few hours this afternoon to explore the lost city on our own or with our guides, or you may simply choose to find a quiet spot from which to soak in the splendor.

Late this afternoon we board a bus for a short ride to our hotel in the festive small town of Machu Picchu, where we enjoy a feast in celebration of accomplishing our trek.
Machu Picchu Pueblo Hotel, Machu Picchu Pueblo, Peru

PLEASE NOTE: It is important to sign up early, as the Peruvian government has a permit system in place which strictly limits the number of hikers on the trail at any given time. Permits are issued without priority on a first-come, first-served basis.  If you dream of hiking into Machu Picchu on the Inca Trail, now is the time to reserve. There are alternative options if permits are not available at the time when you reserve. This will not affect our visit to Machu Picchu, just the hike to the ruins.

DAY 10
Sunrise at Machu Picchu; exploration of ruins; return to Cusco

Walking – easy, 2-3 hours, optional moderate hike to Wayna Picchu, about 3 hours.

For those who wish to rise early, a very special experience is in store this morning.  We return to Machu Picchu before sunrise, so that we can quietly enjoy the ruins before the crowds begin to arrive later in the morning. There is plenty of time to learn more about the complexities of this mountaintop city, or you may choose to challenge yourself to a final hike up Wayna Picchu, the dramatic spire that rises in the background of every classic photograph of the famed citadel.

Later, we descend to the town of Machu Picchu for lunch before boarding the Vistadome train to return to Cusco. The ride takes a few hours, giving us plenty of time to relax, enjoy the views, and reflect on our journey before a final celebratory dinner in Cusco.
Hotel Novotel, Cusco, Peru

DAY 11
Departure from Cusco

After breakfast we transfer to the Cusco airport in time for flights to Lima and homeward.
 

Please note that this is a typical itinerary, and actual activities may vary to take advantage of weather conditions, local events, and to allow serendipity to play a hand in your experience. Accommodations are as outlined in the itinerary, although we reserve the right to change these should the need arise.

$4,095 per person

• Expert leadership
• All accommodations
• Fully supported trek, including camping equipment, porterage by horse, and cooking staff
• All meals except one dinner
• All transportation during the tour
• Archeological site entrance fees
• Trekking permits
• All activities as noted in the itinerary