Machu Picchu: The Inca Trail Trek

Machu Picchu: The Inca Trail Trek Itinerary:

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• Day 1 Welcome to Peru! Meet your guide and fellow trekkers in Cusco. Afternoon walking tour of the city's highlights.

  Our trip begins today in Cusco, Peru (11,150'). Upon arrival in Cusco, we're met by our local guide at our centrally located hotel where a brief orientation meeting will be held. This afternoon, we depart on a city tour that includes a visit to many of Cusco's notable and historic sights. Our guide leads us through the bustling Plaza de Armas, and enlightens us on the history and significance of the Inca temple Koricancha and neighboring Santo Domingo Church. We also walk uphill to San Blas and explore this vibrant neighborhood that has become one of the city's artistic centers. We have the remainder of the day at leisure to acclimatize and discover this beautiful Andean city that was once the center of the Inca Empire. All meals on your own.

• Day 2 Explore Sacsayhuaman fortress, visit the famous ruins at Pisac and the traditional Andean town of Chinchero.

  After breakfast, we head out on a full-day exploration of the Urubamba Valley – the enchanting "Sacred Valley of the Incas". Shortly after leaving Cusco, we'll stop at the imposing ruins of monolithic Sacsayhuaman fortress (considered one of the world's greatest examples of stonemasonry) and enjoy panoramic views of the jumbled red roofs of the colonial city spread out far below. Our next stop is the exceptionally well-preserved ruins at Pisac, which provide an opportunity for us to take a short warm-up hike as we explore the site's various structures and terraces before making our way down to Pisac town and its bustling crafts market. Later today, we continue our Sacred Valley exploration in the lovely high Andean village of Chinchero where we visit a textile cooperative and learn more about the weaving traditions that have been passed down among the local people for centuries. We return to Cusco this evening for a delicious Peruvian dinner in one of the city's excellent restaurants. All meals included.

  Hiking: 3 miles.

• Day 3 Marvel at the Inca crop-growing laboratory of Moray, hike to ancient salt mines and through the ruins of Ollantaytambo.

  This morning, we travel to the Inca ruins of Moray. The circular terraces of Moray were used as an agricultural "research laboratory" for the Incas, who studied temperature variation from one terrace to another in order to develop different crop varieties. We continue to the small town of Maras and begin a one-hour hike to the picturesque salt mines. Originally used by the Inca, villagers from surrounding communities still mine salt by hand from the spring-fed terraced pools. After the hike and some lunch, we travel through the Sacred Valley, past Incan terraces and fields of corn, wheat, barley and quinoa, ultimately arriving in the town of Ollantaytambo, whose street plan still maintains its original Incan layout. After Cusco was overtaken by the conquistadors, Manco Inca and his army of approximately 30,000 retreated to Ollantaytambo and were victorious here against the forces of Spanish commander Hernando Pizaro in the Battle of Ollantaytambo. After a guided walking tour of the town and remarkable namesake ruins, we transfer to our comfortable hotel (located in the Sacred Valley) for dinner. All meals included.

  Hiking: 4 miles.

• Day 4 The Inca Trail trek begins! Hike from the trailhead at Piscacucho to our first campsite at Huayllabamba.

  Our excitement mounts as we board our private bus for the hour long drive to the trailhead at Piscacucho (km marker #82). Here, we meet our Quechua Indian porters and begin trekking the amazing Inca Trail. With snow-capped Mount Veronica (19,188') and the rest of the Urubamba range as a backdrop, we follow a well-marked path past the ruins of Llactapata and through some small Indian villages on the way to our campsite near Huayllabamba. All meals included.
  
  Hiking: 5.7 miles/5.5 hours, between 7,900' – 9,678'.

• Day 5 Spectacular mountain views await on the hike from Huayllabamba to Pacaymayo, crossing the high pass of Warmiwanusca (13,780').

  A nutritious camp breakfast prepares us for today's challenging trek along the narrow Llullucha gorge and over the first pass on the trail. We hike through dense forest encountering abundant birdlife and flowering plants before reaching the open meadows of Llulluchapampa. The final approach to the high pass begins here with a long, steep ramp leading to Warmiwanusca (13,780'). At the top, the views of the surrounding peaks and verdant forest canopy are spectacular. The trail then descends steeply and passes through a meadow rife with lakes, waterfalls and Andean wildflowers. Tonight we make camp in the upper meadows of Pacaymayo. All meals included.
  
  Hiking: 7 miles/7 hours, final elevation 10,991'.

• Day 6 Our trail leads us past Inca ruins and over high Andean passes to our final campsite at Phuyupatamarca.

  We cross the Runkurakay Pass (12,631') in the morning, enjoying excellent views of the glacier-clad peaks of the Pumasillo Mountains and deep gorges of the eastern Andes. We then descend gradually through a unique ecological zone - a high jungle transition area rich in plant and animal life. After entering the cloud forest, our route takes us past the ruins of Sayacmarca and through a natural tunnel elaborated on by the Incas. This portion of the trail is well-paved with Inca stonework and leads us to the spectacular campsite at Phuyupatamarca. The campsite offers superb sunrise vistas over the Urubamba and Aobamba River Valleys and of glacier-covered Mount Salcantay (20,575'). All meals included.
  
  Hiking: 6.1 miles/5.5 hours, final elevation 11,975'.

• Day 7 Arrive at Intipunku (Sun Gate) this afternoon and enjoy the first views of Machu Picchu. Overnight at the Machu Picchu Pueblo Hotel.

  As we leave Phuyupatamarca, we begin a steep stone staircase descent (approximately 2,000 steps cut into indigenous rock), followed by a series of additional descents varying in grade, to the Winay Wayna ruins where we stop for lunch. During the afternoon, our anticipation rises as we make our way to Intipunku (the Sun's Gateway). We arrive at Intipunku in mid-afternoon and are rewarded with our first breathtaking views of Machu Picchu. After spending time at the lookout point, we descend to the ruins and briefly explore some areas close to the trail. This evening, we stay at the charming Machu Picchu Pueblo Hotel in the nearby village of Aguas Calientes, on the valley floor. All meals included.
  
  Hiking: 6.2 miles/5-6 hours, Machu Picchu's elevation is 7,874'.

• Day 8 Early morning shuttle to Machu Picchu for a guided tour of the Sacred City. Free time to explore independently or hike Huayna Picchu.

  We have an early breakfast and head up to the ruins to experience the peace and solitude of this magical place. Our knowledgeable guide leads us through, explaining the significance of the various structures and the theories behind Machu Picchu's purpose and construction methods. We have the rest of the morning and early afternoon to attempt the optional hike up Huayna Picchu and/or explore the ruins on our own. We catch the afternoon tourist train to Ollantaytambo and from there take the bus to Cusco, arriving at approximately 7 p.m. The day concludes with our guide joining us for a final celebration dinner at a traditional local restaurant. Overnight in Cusco. Breakfast & dinner included.

• Day 9 Depart Cusco for home with wonderful memories of your Inca adventure.

  After breakfast, one group transfer back to the Cusco airport will be arranged for travelers departing this morning. Trip members can opt to return to Lima for connecting flights home or extend their travels in Peru. Breakfast included.
  
  Extend your visit to Peru with an incredible jungle lodge adventure in the Peruvian Amazon!

Although we do our very best to adhere to the schedule above, this itinerary is subject to change for numerous reasons beyond our control including weather and terrain conditions.

Please check with us before purchasing your airline tickets to ensure your trip has the necessary minimum number of participants required to operate.

If you are traveling alone and specifically request single accommodations, you will be asked to pay the full single supplement noted on the trip itinerary. If you wish to share accommodations, we will assign you a roommate if one is available. If a roommate cannot be found, you will be asked to pay a reduced single fee, which is half of the full single supplement. A maximum of two single rooms are available on each departure and are reserved on a first come, first served basis.

Accommodations in hotels (5 nights) and tents (3 nights); meals as noted in the daily itinerary (including all meals during trek); English-speaking local guides; Inca Trail trekking permit; full porter support during trek; all group camping gear (except sleeping bags) and cooking equipment; ground transportation within Peru including airport transfers upon arrival/departure; all sightseeing excursions as noted including entry to Machu Picchu.

Air transportation to Cusco; 1 breakfast, 3 lunches, 3 dinners; sleeping bag; optional guide gratuities; excess baggage charges; airport taxes and items of a personal nature such as souvenirs, soft drinks or liquor; laundry fees; immunizations or insurance of any kind.

As trekking permits for the Inca Trail continue to become more difficult to obtain, REI Adventures has made the decision make financial commitments to our Peruvian guides and suppliers further in advance than ever before. By making these commitments to our local partners several months prior to each departure, we are taking a step towards ensuring the same high level of customer service and organizational efficiency that we have been delivering on Inca Trail treks for almost two decades. In conjunction with these changes, your initial $400 deposit is completely non refundable at time of sign up. The remaining trip cost is completely non-refundable within 60 days of departure. All other standard cancellation/transfer fees will also apply as noted in our booking guidelines. Please take note of this special policy when planning your trip and feel free to contact us with any additional questions.

In order to secure your Inca Trail trekking permit and Machu Picchu entrance ticket, you must provide us with your updated passport information including your name as it appears on the passport, passport number, expiration date and country of citizenship. This information should be provided at time of sign up. It is important to note that we can not guarantee your trekking permit or entrance ticket until your current passport information is provided (expired passport numbers are not acceptable). Please contact us immediately if you anticipate any difficulties in obtaining the aforementioned information. Please also be aware that changes to your passport information after original submission will result in a $150 change fee as changes will necessitate a trekking permit reissue.

Permits are now also required for the popular hike to the top of Huayna Picchu, the iconic peak that rises above the ruins of Machu Picchu. The number of daily permits issued for this hike is extremely limited. Please be advised that we will automatically obtain a Huayna Picchu hiking permit for all trip participants when we obtain your Machu Picchu entrance permit. While you will not be obligated to hike to the top of Huayna Picchu, those interested will have the opportunity to do so at some point during your visit to the Sacred City, based on the hiking time noted on the permit. If you should choose to participate in this hike, be advised that you may miss the included guided tour of Machu Picchu. Your trip leader will provide specific schedule details and options upon your arrival in Peru. Please note that the Huayna Picchu hike is challenging, steep (with some exposure) and unguided.

This trip is rated Vigorous [4].  Trip members need to be strong, experienced hikers in good physical condition.  Most days are spent at moderately high altitude (8,000-13,700') and the trek includes a number of steep ascents and descents.  To maximize your enjoyment of the trip and to avoid sore muscles, we strongly encourage participants to begin a conditioning regimen at least three months prior to departure consisting of hiking, walking/running or cycling.  If you live in an area conducive to hiking, try to get out on those hills if possible and work some elevation gain and loss into your regimen.  The better shape you are in, the more you'll enjoy all that this unforgettable adventure has to offer.

Andean nights can get quite cold (between 25 and 40 degrees F) with daytime temperatures warming up to 60-80 degrees F. Much of the trip is in the mountains where weather can change very quickly. Typically, days are clear and pleasant, with afternoon clouds building in the spring and fall months. Cool and misty conditions are possible, but all-day rain is unlikely.

This trip is subject to the booking information set forth in the current REI Adventures Reservation Information. Please read this information carefully and call us if you have any questions. A full gear list and pre-departure information is sent upon sign-up. We highly recommend the purchase of travel insurance through REI Adventures. If coverage is purchased at the time of your initial reservation, the 'Pre-existing Conditions Exclusion' is waived (certain exclusions apply).

We look forward to having you join us for the trip of a lifetime! Why wait? Space is limited, reserve your adventure today.

The key to staying comfortable while on an active trip is layering. To obtain maximum comfort with minimum weight, you need versatile layers that mix and match to create the right amount of insulation, ventilation and weather protection. This gear list has been created to help you choose your clothing and gear for this trip. Try to bring only what is necessary—this will help you and the field staff.

Weather

Andean nights can get quite cold (between 25° and 40° F) with daytime temperatures warming to 60°-80° F. Much of your trip is in the mountains where weather can change very quickly. Typically, days are clear and pleasant, with afternoon clouds building in the spring and fall months. Cool and misty conditions are possible, but all-day rain is unlikely.

Note: The maximum weight for each duffel bag while trekking is approximately 20 lbs. While on the Inca Trail, you will be able to store unnecessary gear and purchases at your hotel in Cusco.

Gear Checklist

Things to Consider

• Please remember to always pack essential items such as your passport, money, eyewear, a change of clothing, hiking boots and medications in your carry-on baggage, in case your luggage is delayed.
• Regarding weight and size restrictions of luggage: The Peruvian Government regulates the Inca Trail, the porters and campsites. They also set regulations for Machu Picchu and Peru Rail. The luggage size and weight restrictions listed in our materials are accurate at time of printing; however it is highly possible that due to unforeseen circumstances or changes in government policy, these figures can change with little to no notice. At our group orientation our guides will advise the group of the most current policy.
• Wind chill can be a significant feature of this trip. Air temperatures are not very cold, but when the wind is constant, and when you combine this with the stress that altitude puts on your body, you can be robbed of body heat quickly. Wind or rain gear is very important.
• Cotton is wonderful in warm weather. However, once it becomes wet, it will drain your body heat. Bring wool or synthetics such as Capilene®, MTS® and Thermax®.
• Always test your layers before a trip. Your outer layer should fit easily over the inside ones without binding and bunching up.
• Make sure boots are broken-in. Bring moleskin for foot treatment. Thin liner socks worn under regular hiking socks may minimize the risk of blisters. The liner sock should be synthetic, not cotton. Test your sock combination before you go on the trip.
• Travel clothes, extra gear and purchases are left in a secure storage room while we are trekking on the Inca Trail.
• Stuff sacks are great for sorting gear. Use different sizes/colors to differentiate contents.
• Bring a garbage bag to line your duffel bag and keep your gear dry, should inclement weather be encountered.