One of the most popular trips in the region for those looking to combine the cultural highlights of the Sacred Valley with the challenge of one of the world’s best known hikes. The four-day Inca Trail trek will reward you with a stunning combination of the region’s ruins, mountainscapes, and cloud forests. Because this supplier runs their own treks, they can ensure the fair treatment of the porters and the quality of food and equipment so you’re free to enjoy the beauty of the region.
What’s included
- Ccaccaccollo Community and Women’s Weaving Co-op visit
- Parwa Community Restaurant
- Sacred Valley guided tour
- Pottery making demonstration
- Inca Trail guided hike with cooks and porters (4 days)
- Guided tour of Machu Picchu
- All transport between destinations and to/from included activities
- Meals: some (see itinerary)
Travel Style: Active
Hiking, trekking, biking, rafting, and/or kayaking adventures all over the world, made for outdoor types.
Service Level: Standard
Comfortable tourist-class accommodations with character; mix of public and private transport.
Physical Rating: 4 – Demanding
Some high-altitude hikes or more strenuous activities, but accessible to most healthy travellers.
Trip Type: Small Group
Small group experience; Max 16, Avg 12
Day 1: Cusco
Arrive anytime (but come early if you want to explore the city a bit). Meet the group at the welcome meeting and check the start time on the welcome letter at the hotel. Arrive early and spend some time exploring the city. Meet the group at the welcome meeting, check for the start time on the welcome note at the hotel.
Day 2: Cusco/Ollantaytambo
Enjoy a full-day guided tour of the Sacred Valley. Stop at the G Adventures-supported women’s weaving co-op before visiting a local pottery making community. Break for lunch at the G Adventures-supported Parwa Community Restaurant in Huchuy Qosco. After lunch, opt to head out on a hike to the Ollantaytambo storehouses and look out over the ruins. Or, wander around the cobblestone streets and visit a local Chicheria (corn beer bar). Meals included: Breakfast | Lunch
Day 3: Inca Trail
Depart Ollantaytambo by van to km 82 where the Inca Trail begins. Ease into the adventure with a straightforward day of hiking the meandering streams, stunning Andean scenery, and ancient Incan ruins. Trek through beautiful scenery, with a variety of flora that changes with the seasons, passing several smaller ruin sites like Llactapata. Meals included: Breakfast | Lunch | Dinner
Day 4: Inca Trail
Start early to climb the long steep path to Warmiwañusca, better known as Dead Woman’s Pass. This is the highest point of the trek at 4,198m (13,769 ft). Most hikers reach camp by early afternoon, with ample time to rest and relax. Meals included: Breakfast | Lunch | Dinner
Day 5: Inca Trail
Cross two more passes and ruins on today’s trek. The first-pass is Runquraqay at 3,950m (13,113 ft) where, on a clear day, hikers can catch a glimpse of the snow-capped Cordillera Vilcabamba. Hike through the cloud forest on a gentle climb to the second pass of the day, walking through original Incan constructions. The highest point of the pass is 3,700m (12,136 ft). On a clear day, enjoy the spectacular views of the Urubamba Valley. At 3,650m (11,972 ft), reach the ruins of Phuyupatamarca, the “town above the clouds.” Camp here or go another 1.5 hrs to the Wiñay Wayna ruins (“forever young”) located at 2,650m (8,694 ft). Meals included: Breakfast | Lunch | Dinner
Day 6: Machu Picchu/Cusco
The final day of the hike starts pre-dawn to reach the Sun Gate before sunrise. Catch the first views of the breathtaking ruins of Machu Picchu on a clear day. Hike down for a guided tour of the ruins, before your train back to Cusco. Meals included: Breakfast
Day 7: Cusco
Depart at any time.
