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Exclusive Inca Trail Package:
12 Days

Arrival in Lima

DAY 1

Upon arrival at Jorge Chávez International Airport in Lima, you’ll be warmly welcomed by a Luxe Andes Peru representative, who will assist with VIP transfer to your luxury hotel in the exclusive Miraflores district. Once at the hotel, you’ll receive all necessary information for your Inca Trail adventure and personalized assistance with the check-in process. Use this day to acclimatize and enjoy your boutique hotel’s amenities. If your arrival is early, we recommend exploring the vibrant Miraflores district, visiting the romantic Love Park with its spectacular Pacific Ocean views, or enjoying a welcome dinner at one of the city’s award-winning restaurants. This day is crucial for rest before your flight to altitude and subsequent trekking adventure.

Arrival in Cusco - Transfer to Urubamba

DAY 2

Early morning transfer to the airport for your flight to Cusco, the ancient capital of the Inca Empire. Upon arrival at Cusco airport, you’ll be welcomed by your specialized guide who will offer comforting coca tea to facilitate altitude acclimatization. You’ll immediately begin descent to Sacred Valley, specifically to Urubamba, located at lower altitude (2,874 meters) for better gradual acclimatization before the Inca Trail. During the panoramic journey, enjoy spectacular Andean landscapes and photographic stops at strategic viewpoints. Check into your boutique hotel in Sacred Valley’s heart, where you can relax and enjoy the environment’s serenity while naturally acclimatizing. The afternoon includes a complete Inca Trail briefing and equipment verification with your specialized guide.

Maras, Moray and Salt Terraces

DAY 3

After breakfast, begin a full day of acclimatization exploring Sacred Valley’s most emblematic wonders. This activity is strategic for your physical preparation before the Inca Trail. Start visiting fascinating Maras salt terraces, where thousands of salt terraces have been exploited since Inca times, creating a surrealistic landscape of white mirrors dramatically contrasting with surrounding mountains. Continue to Moray, the enigmatic Inca agricultural laboratory with its concentric circular terraces used to experiment with different crops at various altitudes, demonstrating the Incas’ advanced agricultural knowledge. After a gourmet lunch with local organic products, explore the salt terraces more deeply, learning about ancestral salt extraction techniques that remain unchanged. This day serves as excellent physical and cultural preparation for your subsequent Inca Trail trek. Return to your hotel in Urubamba to rest before the great challenge.

Ollantaytambo, Pisaq Ruins, Pisaq Market and Cusco

DAY 4

Early morning, head to Ollantaytambo, the last living Inca town and traditional starting point for many Inca expeditions. Explore this imposing fortress that served as administrative, religious, and military center, walking through its original cobblestone streets and observing the water channel system that still functions perfectly. Continue to impressive Pisaq ruins, a ceremonial and military complex crowning a mountain with perfectly preserved agricultural terraces. After a gourmet buffet lunch, descend to vibrant Pisaq market for an authentic cultural experience and final shopping before the trek. At day’s end, transfer to Cusco where you’ll check into your luxury hotel. This evening includes a special preparation dinner and final technical briefing for the Inca Trail, where you’ll receive all necessary equipment and meet your porters and specialized cook who will accompany you during the adventure.

Cusco City Tour

DAY 5

Your last day before the Inca Trail will be dedicated to exploring Cusco, an essential cultural preparation to understand Machu Picchu’s magnificence. Begin with a complete historic center tour, visiting the Cathedral built on Inca foundations, the impressive Qorikancha (Sun Temple), and the artisan neighborhood of San Blas with its traditional workshops. Continue to archaeological sites surrounding Cusco: Sacsayhuamán with its enormous perfectly assembled stone blocks, Qenqo with its enigmatic ceremonial channels, Puka Pukará, and Tambomachay, the Inca’s bath. This exploration will provide the historical and architectural context necessary to fully appreciate Machu Picchu. The afternoon includes free time for final shopping, relaxation, and a nutritious dinner specially designed to energize before the trek. Early night is mandatory to be rested for the Inca Trail challenge.

Inca Trail - Day 1 (Wayllabamba)

DAY 6

The Inca Trail adventure begins! Very early morning pickup from your hotel for transfer to Ollantaytambo, where you’ll board the train to km 82, the official starting point of the classic 4-day Inca Trail. After documentation and permit controls, begin your hike accompanied by Inca Trail specialist guides, professional porters, and an expert cook. The first day covers approximately 11 kilometers with moderate hiking that allows gradual adaptation to the trek’s pace. Pass through archaeological sites of Patallacta and Wayllabamba, while enjoying spectacular landscapes of the Urubamba River and surrounding mountains. Your porter team will have set up base camp at Wayllabamba (3,000m) before your arrival. The afternoon includes a gourmet dinner prepared by your private cook and an educational talk about Inca Trail history and archaeology under Andean stars.

Inca Trail - Day 2 (Warmiwañusca Pass)

DAY 7

This is considered the Inca Trail’s most challenging day. After an energetic breakfast, begin the ascent to the trek’s highest pass: Warmiwañusca or “Dead Woman’s Pass” at 4,215 meters above sea level. This approximately 3-hour climb requires determination and consistent pace, but the panoramic views from the summit are absolutely spectacular. After celebrating at the summit and taking commemorative photographs, begin descent to Pacaymayo valley, where your team will have prepared camp. The day covers approximately 11 kilometers with 6-7 hours of hiking. During descent, observe dramatic changes in vegetation and ecosystems, from high puna to cloud forests. The afternoon includes rest, treatment for tired muscles, a revitalizing dinner, and preparation for the next day’s archaeological day.

Inca Trail - Day 3 (Wiñay Wayna)

DAY 8

Wake in one of the Inca Trail’s most beautiful campsites, surrounded by cloud forest and spectacular views. After breakfast, begin a hike combining physical challenge with archaeological richness, visiting multiple excellently preserved Inca sites. Explore Runkurakay, a circular ceremonial structure, and the impressive Sayacmarca complex, built on a mountain with panoramic valley views. Continue through the original Inca tunnel and arrive at Wiñay Wayna (“Forever Young”), one of the Inca Trail’s most spectacular archaeological sites, with perfectly preserved terraces and sophisticated architecture. Your final camp will be located near the Sun Gate, positioning you strategically for sunrise at Machu Picchu. The evening includes a celebration dinner and emotional preparation for your adventure’s culminating day.

Machu Picchu - Train to Ollantaytambo - Transfer to Cusco

DAY 9

The most anticipated day! Rise before dawn to walk to the Sun Gate (Inti Punku) and experience the magical moment when the first sun rays illuminate Machu Picchu from your privileged position. This view, reserved only for those completing the Inca Trail, is truly transformative and emotional. After this unique moment, descend to the citadel for a complete 2-3 hour exploration with your specialized guide, who will reveal the architectural, astronomical, and ceremonial secrets of this world wonder. Explore the Temple of the Sun, Royal Residence, Intihuatana, and other ceremonial sectors. After the tour, descend to Aguas Calientes for a celebration lunch and rest. In the afternoon, board the Vistadome or Vistadome Observatory train back to Ollantaytambo, where you’ll be welcomed by your private driver for transfer to Cusco. Arrival and accommodation at your luxury hotel, where you can enjoy a comforting shower and reflect on your extraordinary achievement.

Free Day in Cusco

DAY 10

After completing the Inca Trail challenge, this free day is essential for physical and emotional recovery. You may choose to relax completely at your hotel, enjoying spa treatments, relaxing massages, or simply resting in your luxury accommodation’s amenities. Alternatively, explore Cusco at your own pace, visiting museums like the Pre-Columbian Art Museum, shopping in San Blas neighborhood, or enjoying Cusco gastronomy at local restaurants. You may also choose light activities like visits to artisan workshops, photography sessions in the historic center, or simply sitting in the Main Square observing local life. This day is fundamental for processing the lived experience and preparing for your final Andean adventure.

Humantay

DAY 11

Your adventure culminates with a visit to spectacular Humantay Lagoon, one of the most impressive natural jewels of the Cusco Andes. After an early breakfast, begin the journey to Mollepata (approximately 3 hours), enjoying changing Andean landscapes and views of the imposing Salkantay snow-capped peak. From Soraypampa (3,900m), begin approximately 1.5-hour hike to Humantay Lagoon (4,200m), a turquoise water mirror nestled between snow-capped mountains offering one of the most photographed views of the Peruvian Andes. This hike, though challenging due to altitude, is very rewarding and serves as perfect culmination for your Andean experience. After time for contemplation, photography, and a picnic lunch with lagoon views, begin descent and return to Cusco. The afternoon includes a special farewell dinner at one of Cusco’s finest restaurants, celebrating your extraordinary achievements.

Transfer to Airport

DAY 12

After a final breakfast at your hotel, and depending on your flight schedule, you’ll have free time for final farewell activities. You can make final purchases at Cusco’s artisan markets, visit the famous Hatunrumiyoc street with the twelve-angled stone, or simply relax at your hotel remembering the most special moments of your adventure. Your Luxe Andes Peru representative will accompany you to Cusco airport for your return flight, ensuring your departure is as comfortable as your arrival. We bid farewell with the certainty that you carry indelible memories of a transformative experience combining the personal challenge of the Inca Trail with the natural beauty of the Andes, living an authentic adventure that few have the privilege to experience in its most exclusive and comfortable form.

What’s Included

  • Personalized VIP airport assistance and throughout your stay with dedicated representative.
  • Accommodation in carefully selected luxury hotels: boutique hotel in Miraflores (Lima), boutique hotel in Urubamba (Sacred Valley), and luxury hotel in Cusco’s historic center.
  • Domestic flight Lima-Cusco.
  • Premium private transportation throughout terrestrial itinerary.
  • Complete 4-day/3-night Inca Trail with exclusive permits and luxury camping equipment.
  • Complete camping equipment: high-quality tents, professional sleeping bags, mats, tables and chairs.
  • Professional Inca Trail team: certified specialist guides, professional porters, expert cook, and first aid equipment.
  • Complete meals during Inca Trail: energetic breakfasts, nutritious lunches, gourmet dinners, snacks, and hot beverages.
  • Vistadome or Vistadome Observatory train from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo.
  • Entrance tickets and permits: Inca Trail (limited and exclusive), Machu Picchu, Sacred Valley archaeological sites, Cusco archaeological sites, and Humantay Lagoon.
  • Specialized bilingual private guides for each destination.
  • Daily breakfasts at all hotels.
  • Lunches included in Sacred Valley (days 3 and 4) and during excursions.
  • Complete technical briefings and specialized trekking equipment.
  • Medical support during Inca Trail with professional first aid kit and emergency communication.
  • 24/7 support with direct emergency line.
  • Classic Inca Trail completion certificate.

 

What’s Not Included

  • International flights to and from Peru.
  • Domestic flight from Cusco to Lima (quotation available upon request).
  • Specialized travel insurance (mandatory for high mountain trekking and Inca Trail).
  • Tips for guides, porters, cook and drivers (we suggest $20-25 USD per person per day for Inca Trail team).
  • Dinners in Lima and Cusco (except specified farewell dinner).
  • Alcoholic beverages during included meals and at hotels.
  • Personal trekking equipment: mountain boots, technical clothing, trekking poles, personal backpack, personal sleeping bag (available for rent).
  • Optional activities such as Huayna Picchu ascent, spa treatments, post-trek massages, or additional activities on free days.
  • Personal expenses including shopping, extra hotel services, phone calls, laundry, and additional tips.
  • Altitude sickness prevention medication and personal first aid kit.
  • Specific Inca Trail cancellation insurance (highly recommended due to permit exclusivity).

 

Essential Recommendations

  1. Mandatory Advance Booking: Inca Trail permits are limited to 500 people per day (including guides and porters) and sell out months ahead, especially for high season (May-September). Book 6-8 months minimum in advance.
  2. Intensive Physical Preparation: The Inca Trail requires excellent physical condition. Begin cardiovascular and resistance training at least 3 months before. Include backpack hikes, stair climbing, and leg strengthening exercises.
  3. Crucial Acclimatization: Arrive in Cusco at least 2-3 days before trek start. The itinerary includes gradual acclimatization, but consider additional days if coming directly from sea level. Consume coca tea constantly.
  4. Specialized Technical Equipment: Invest in high-quality trekking boots (wear them for weeks before the trip), technical layered clothing, sleeping bag for -10°C, 40-50 liter backpack, and trekking poles. Detailed list will be provided.
  5. Specialized Travel Insurance: Acquire coverage including high mountain trekking, medical evacuation from remote areas, weather-related cancellation, and adventure activities. Verify specific Inca Trail coverage.
  6. Extreme Altitude Preparation: The trek reaches 4,215m at Warmiwañusca. Altitude sickness symptoms can be severe. Consult your doctor about preventive medications like acetazolamide. Maintain constant hydration.
  7. Weight Restrictions: Porters are limited to carrying 20kg including camp equipment. Your personal backpack shouldn’t exceed 5-7kg. Pack only essentials and use light but resistant technical clothing.
  8. Variable Weather Conditions: Inca Trail weather can change dramatically. Prepare for rain, intense sun, nighttime cold, and wind. Dry season (May-September) is ideal, but nights are very cold.
  9. Specific Documentation: Carry original passport (same used in booking), international student card if applicable for discounts, and travel insurance. Names on permits cannot be changed.
  10. Mental Preparation: The Inca Trail is physically and mentally challenging. Prepare for very early wake-ups (5:00 AM), 6-8 hour daily hikes, basic camping, and primitive bathroom conditions. The reward is worth every sacrifice.
  11. Health and Medications: Carry personal first aid kit with painkillers, gastrointestinal medications, band-aids, and any personal medication. Emergency medical equipment is available but prevention is key.
  12. Cultural and Environmental Respect: The Inca Trail is world heritage and sacred site. Strictly follow “leave no trace” rules, respect archaeological sites, and maintain respectful attitude toward porters and local communities.
  13. Communication: Communication is limited during the trek. Inform family about itinerary. Satellite emergency devices are available with guide team.
  14. Date Flexibility: Extreme weather conditions may affect itinerary. The Inca Trail closes in February for maintenance. Maintain flexibility and trust your guides’ experience for safety decisions.