Hike in the Footsteps of the Incas

Immerse yourself in the legends, myths, and history of Peru on this classic Inca Trail journey. Hike in the footsteps of the Incas, traverse mountain passes with views of snowy peaks, and explore ancient ceremonial centers including, of course, Machu Picchu, that echo the spirit of those long-ago times. 

Activities

4 days moderate to strenuous hiking at medium elevation (max. 13,776')

TRIP HIGHLIGHTS

• Hiking the Inca Trail following in the footsteps of the Incas
  
• Explore the enigmatic stone ruins of Machu Picchu, South America's most awesome archaeological site, and spend two nights at the footsteps of the famous citadel
  
• Visit the major Inca monuments near Cuzco, a charming, colonial city and ancient capital of the Incas
  

2010/2011 Prices
$3,695 (10 - 14 members)
$3,895 (4 - 9 members)
$375 internal airfare
$1,200 single supplement
$300 Inti Raymi festival surcharge (June 23, 2011 departure)

Duration: 10 days Start Location: Lima End Location: Lima Best time to go: April - September

Itinerary

• Day 1 : Cusco

  Meet in Lima, Peru, and fly to Cuzco (11,200'). Afternoon tour of the city, a chance to acclimatize to the heady altitude. Overnight at Hotel Libertador.

• Day 2 : Inca Ruins

  Visit the nearby Inca ruins: the stone fortress of Sacsayhuaman, the zigzag channels of Kenko, and the water fountains of Tambo Machay.

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  Day 3 : Chinchero

  Visit the market town of Chinchero and the ancient agricultural terraces of Moray. Warm-up hike from Maras to the floor of the Urubamba Valley past the evaporative salt pans of Salinas.

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  Days 4 - 7 : Visit Ollantaytambo and begin trek / Cross the Warmiwanusqa Pass / Phuyupatamarca / Arrive at mysterious Machu Picchu

  After exploring the fortress-temple of Ollantaytambo, site of a spectacular Spanish defeat in 1537, begin hiking the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu. En route you'll cross three passes, camp near age-old Inca outposts, and enjoy a panorama of the high snowcapped peaks of the Andes. You'll arrive at Machu Picchu in the afternoon of the fourth day, and have time to explore the ruins before retiring at the nearby Machu Picchu Pueblo Hotel.

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  Day 8 : Machu Picchu

  Early morning comprehensive tour of the ruins, followed by lunch at the Machu Picchu Sanctuary Hotel. Afternoon to explore on your own in Machu Picchu or enjoy the amenities of our hotel (including its wonderful spa!).

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  Day 9 : Machu Picchu and return to Cusco

  Free morning with possible local hikes. Afternoon return to Cuzco by train.

• Day 10 : Fly home

  Fly to Lima, afternoon free. Depart from Lima.

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  Hotel Libertador

  Cusco

  Facing the Sun Temple "Koricancha," this romantic, personalized hotel is a traveler's favorite, reaching 11th place on Condé Nast Traveler's list of top South American hotels. Rooms furnished in a classic, traditional style ensure the hotel maintains its serene character despite its central location. 

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  Machu Picchu Pueblo Hotel

  Aquas Calientes

  A luxury boutique hotel just steps from the train, but a secluded natural paradise. Located in the small town of Aguas Calientes on the banks of the Urubamba River, the Pueblo Hotel was rated by Travel & Leisure readers  as a top 500 hotel of the world in 2006. Rustic elegance distinguishes the private bungalows, each with its own fireplace, and the lush gardens are home to orchids, exotic birds and other flora and fauna.

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  Casa Andina

  Mira Flores

  Dayroom at Casa Andina Private Collection Generous elegance and exemplary Limeño spirit distinguish this premier hotel, with its views over Miraflores and the coast, outstanding service, rich woodwork and Peruvian artwork curated exclusively by Larco Museum for Casa Andina.

Properties shown are representative of the accommodations we use on this trip, may not be inclusive of all accommodations we use, and are subject to change.

Expert leadership is the key to an exciting, unforgettable experience. Our trips feature gifted leaders for whom leading trips is a true vocation. Besides showing you wonders you’d never find on your own, they make sure everything runs smoothly and safely without a hitch. They are knowledgeable about all aspects of your trip, and take great pleasure in sharing their insights with you. More than just guides, they positively elevate your experience by being teachers, companions, and the best of friends. You’ll be in good hands with them every step of the way.

• Manuel Luna

  Manuel started out as a field assistant with Mountain Travel Sobek more than 20 years ago, and is now considered one of the finest trek and tour leaders in Peru. Manuel graduated with a degree in agriculture and raises white corn on a farm in a valley near Cusco.

• Juan de Dios Castillo

  Juan de Dios was born in the northern Andes and raised in Cusco. For the last 16 years he has worked as a guide in the Andes, including Bolivia, Ecuador, and the Galápagos. Juan is comfortable guiding any active trip, be it cultural, trekking, or river rafting. His knowledge of the local Quechua language and his extensive studies in Inca culture provide him with a unique understanding of the Andean people. His love of Peru and easygoing manner make him a great traveling companion.

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