10 Day Inca Trail Discovery
OverviewEmbark on an unforgettable 10-day journey through the heart of the Inca Empire, culminating in the legendary Machu Picchu! This adventure combines the rich history of Cusco, the breathtaking landscapes of the Sacred Valley, and the world-renowned Inca Trail, offering a once-in-a-lifetime experience for trekking enthusiasts and cultural explorers alike.
Your journey begins in Lima, where you’ll be welcomed and enjoy a comfortable overnight stay. The next day, a short flight takes you to Cusco, the historic capital of the Inca civilization, where you’ll explore its fascinating streets and nearby archaeological sites. From there, you’ll venture into the Sacred Valley, visiting the picturesque towns of Chinchero, Ollantaytambo, and Pisac, before resting in a beautiful valley hotel to prepare for the Inca Trail adventure.
The highlight of this tour is the 4-day Inca Trail, one of the most famous trekking routes in the world. You’ll hike through diverse ecosystems, from high-altitude mountain passes to lush cloud forests, while exploring mystical Inca ruins along the way. On the final day of the trek, you’ll arrive at Machu Picchu through the Sun Gate (Inti Punku), witnessing the breathtaking sunrise over the Lost City of the Incas.
After an in-depth guided tour of Machu Picchu, you’ll enjoy a special overnight stay at the exclusive Belmond Sanctuary Lodge, just steps away from the site. The adventure continues with an optional Huayna Picchu hike, offering panoramic views of Machu Picchu from its towering peak. Afterward, you’ll return to Cusco for a private walking tour, exploring its historic and modern contrasts.
Your journey concludes with a return flight to Lima, where you’ll explore Miraflores and the Historic Center before catching your international flight home.
Highlights:
- Explore Cusco & the Sacred Valley with private guided tours.
- Hike the legendary Inca Trail with expert guides and porters.
- Arrive at Machu Picchu through the iconic Sun Gate (Inti Punku).
- Optional Huayna Picchu climb for breathtaking panoramic views.
- Stay at the exclusive Belmond Sanctuary Lodge, the only hotel next to Machu Picchu.
- Enjoy a curated mix of adventure, history, and cultural immersion.
Price per person:
$ 4,481.10 USD- Tour Duration: 10 days, guided trekking adventure along the famous Inca Trail to Machu Picchu.
- Tour Type: Active trekking and cultural exploration, with guided visits to key Inca sites.
Itinerary Highlights:
- Day 1: Arrive in Lima. Transfer to hotel and overnight stay.
- Day 2: Flight to Cusco, transfer to hotel in Sacred Valley or Cusco.
- Day 4-7: 4-day Inca Trail trek (includes camping). Visit Inca archaeological sites like Chinchero, Moray, Pisac, Runkurakay, Sayacmarca, and Wiñay Wayna.
- Day 7-8: Machu Picchu tour, optional hike up Huayna Picchu (1.5 hrs ascent), stay at Belmond Sanctuary Lodge.
- Day 8-9: Return to Cusco via train, sightseeing and free time.
- Day 10: Fly to Lima, half-day tour of Miraflores, return flight home.
Important Notes:
- Altitude: Highest point: Warmihuañusca Pass at 4,224m (13,860ft). Acclimatization in Cusco or Sacred Valley recommended.
- Sites Visited: Sacred Valley, Chinchero, Moray, Pisac, Runkurakay, Sayacmarca, Wiñay Wayna, Machu Picchu, Huayna Picchu (optional).
- Packing: Prepare for changing weather conditions, from warm days to cold nights.
- Travel Insurance: Highly recommended.
Just head for arrivals and look for a smiling PAD representative, who will be holding a sign with your name.
We’ll take you to your hotel and help you with anything you may need to get settled.
Depending on your arrival time, we will spend the night in Lima before continuing our journey.
Then we’ll leave you to enjoy a good night’s sleep – the perfect remedy for a long flight.
Meals Not Included.
The journey is short—less than an hour and a half—but offers breathtaking views.
Watch as the arid coastline gives way to the towering peaks of the Andes, a spectacular preview of the adventure ahead.
Upon arrival in Cusco, our team will be waiting to welcome you and take you on a private journey through the Sacred Valley.
Leaving the city behind, we ascend to the Chinchero Plateau, home to one of the most historically significant towns of the Inca Empire.
The highlight is the imposing stone wall in the main plaza, featuring ten perfectly carved trapezoidal niches.
From here, enjoy panoramic views of the Sacred Valley, framed by the majestic Cordillera Urubamba and the snow-capped Salkantay Mountain on the western horizon.
Chinchero is also believed to be the mythical birthplace of the rainbow, adding a mystical touch to this remarkable site.
Next, we visit the salt mines of Maras, an ancient salt-extraction site dating back to pre-Inca times.
Over 3,000 salt pools cascade down the mountainside, creating a surreal landscape still in use today.
Then, we continue to Moray, where mysterious circular terraces form what some scholars believe was an advanced agricultural laboratory for the Incas.
After an enriching day of exploration, we will enjoy a delightful lunch at a local restaurant before heading to the hotel,
where you can unwind and take in the serene beauty of the Sacred Valley.
Meals: B, L.
We begin in Pisac, a charming valley town famous for its vibrant artisan market. This bustling hub attracts locals and travelers alike, offering an explosion of colors, textures, and aromas. Browse through handwoven textiles, beautifully crafted ceramics, and an array of fresh, regional produce. After soaking in the lively atmosphere, we ascend to Pisac’s stunning Inca ruins, perched on the mountainside. Marvel at the impeccable stonework and take in breathtaking views of the sweeping agricultural terraces that contour the slopes.
Next, we’ll head to Ollantaytambo, a living testament to Inca ingenuity. The ancient town layout, intricate street canals, and solid stone doorways remain just as they were centuries ago. These trapezoidal doors, a hallmark of Inca architecture, symbolized importance and were built to withstand earthquakes.
After the tour, we’ll enjoy a delicious lunch in the Sacred Valley at a local restaurant, where you can savor regional flavors and relax. Following lunch, we’ll return to our hotel in the Sacred Valley, where you’ll have time to unwind and prepare for the exciting Inca Trail adventure that begins tomorrow.
Meals: B, L.
With PAD, you can be assured that your experience on the Inca Trail will be both safe and enjoyable. You’ll be accompanied by expert guides and supported by a dedicated team of staff members who will ensure your comfort. Native Quechua porters will help carry your luggage, and you’ll be treated to delicious, hearty meals to keep your energy levels high throughout the trek. For added comfort, we also provide portable hot showers and massage services—perfect for relaxing after a long day of hiking. Be sure to ask for these services if you’d like a little extra pampering!
One of the highlights of today’s journey is the outdoor lunch and dinner. Dining al fresco in the middle of the beautiful Andean landscape is an experience you truly won’t want to miss. Enjoy a flavorful, freshly prepared meal while surrounded by the majestic mountains and breathtaking scenery.
From the hotel, we’ll transfer you to the start of the trek at Km 82, where you’ll meet your porters and receive all the necessary equipment for the journey. The first section of the trail takes you through semi-arid terrain along the Urubamba River, offering magnificent views of the towering snow-capped mountains. We will then leave the valley behind and follow the Kusichaca River toward our first campsite at Huayllabamba, situated at 9,842 feet (3,000 meters) above sea level.
Meals: B, L, D.
As you descend the other side of the pass, the scenery changes dramatically. The descent will take you through a beautiful gorge, and once we reach the end of this stunning route, we’ll stop to settle into our second campsite, Pacaymayo, located at an altitude of 3,405 meters (11,181 feet).
By now, after two full days of trekking, your muscles might start to feel the strain. This is the perfect time to enjoy the luxury of a hot shower and indulge in a massage to soothe those tired muscles and prepare for the next day’s adventure.
Meals: B, L, D.
A short climb up a flight of steps brings us to the impressive Sayacmarca ruins, situated at an altitude of 3,640 meters (11,946 feet). This remarkable site seems to defy the imagination, as it’s hard to fathom how the Incas could have constructed such a complex in such a remote and stunningly scenic location. From here, we’ll follow the ancient stone road, descending into the jungle and trekking through a canopied ‘tunnel’ that leads us to our next stop: the Phuyupatamarca campsite.
Having completed much of this challenging trail, it’s time for a well-deserved reward. Celebrate the success of your adventure with a toast before dinner, and then kick back to relax. Tomorrow, we’ll tackle the final leg of this epic journey!
Meals: B, L, D.
We’ll spend some time exploring Wiñay Wayna before continuing on toward Inti Punku, the Sun Gate at Machu Picchu.
As you arrive at Machu Picchu, you’ll be elated to have reached this cherished site! The views are breathtaking, with the ever-changing clouds and lighting giving the citadel an almost otherworldly appearance. After a delicious meal, you’ll enter the site with your private guide for an afternoon of exploration.
After a day of discovery, you’ll be glad to know you won’t have far to go to rest. Enjoy a luxurious stay at the Belmond Sanctuary Lodge, the only hotel located next to the Machu Picchu site, offering exclusive access to this New World Wonder.
Meals: B, L, D.
For the adventurous, we have secured exclusive hiking permits for Huayna Picchu, the towering 2,720-meter (8,923-foot) peak that forms the iconic backdrop of Machu Picchu’s classic postcard image. This exhilarating hike takes approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes to ascend, rewarding you with 40 minutes at the summit to soak in the breathtaking panoramic views. The descent takes about 1 hour, requiring careful footing along steep and narrow trails—an unforgettable experience that offers a unique perspective of the ancient citadel.
After completing your hike, we’ll descend to Aguas Calientes via Consettur’s official buses, where we’ll enjoy a well-earned lunch. Later, we will board the train back to Ollantaytambo, followed by a private transfer to Cusco, where you can unwind and enjoy a peaceful evening at your hotel.
📌 Important Note: Due to high demand, permits for Huayna Picchu must be reserved well in advance. Availability is limited, and early booking is essential to secure your spot for this exclusive hike.
Meals: B, L.
Your walking tour begins with a visit to the Plaza de Armas, the heart of Cuzco. Here, you’ll admire the imposing Cusco Cathedral, built atop the foundations of an Inca palace. Continuing through the city, we’ll explore Hatun Rumiyoc Street, where you’ll stop at the famous 12-Angled Stone, a testament to the Incas’ incredible masonry skills.
Then, we’ll make our way to the charming San Blas neighborhood, known for its narrow streets, artisan workshops, and bohemian atmosphere. Along the way, you’ll pass by Plazoleta Nazarenas, home to the Pre-Columbian Art Museum, which houses an impressive collection of Andean artifacts.
Once your guided tour concludes, you’ll have the afternoon free to continue exploring on your own or relax at your hotel. If you’d like to extend your tour, we recommend visiting the San Pedro Market, where you can immerse yourself in the colors, aromas, and flavors of Cuzco’s traditional cuisine.
📌 Optional Extension: You can enhance your private tour by visiting the four nearby Inca ruins:
– Sacsayhuamán – A massive fortress with colossal stone walls that offers panoramic views of Cuzco.
– Q’enqo – A mysterious ceremonial site featuring intricate carvings and underground altars.
– Puca Pucara – A red-hued military outpost with impressive stone terraces.
– Tambomachay – A fascinating water temple believed to have been used for Inca rituals.
📌 Ask your PAD Travel Designer to include this extension in your personalized itinerary.
Meals: B.
Our tour starts in the Historic Center of Lima, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. We will walk through the Main Square, surrounded by impressive colonial buildings such as the Government Palace, the Municipal Palace, and the Cathedral of Lima. Next, we will visit the San Francisco Convent, famous for its stunning Baroque architecture and its mysterious catacombs, which served as an old cemetery during colonial times.
Continuing our tour, we will head to the modern and cosmopolitan district of Miraflores, where we will enjoy a panoramic view of the Pacific Ocean from the iconic Park of Love and the Miraflores boardwalk. We will also explore the elegant district of San Isidro, home to the historic Huaca Pucllana, a pre-Inca ceremonial center that stands out in the middle of the city.
During the tour, our guide will provide recommendations for lunch and dinner based on your preferences.
At the end of the tour, we will transfer you to your hotel so you can rest before your international flight, which departs at night.
🌎 Thank you for trusting us to discover the magic of Peru. It has been an honor to accompany you on this incredible journey, filled with history, breathtaking landscapes, and unforgettable moments. We hope to see you again to explore more wonders of our beautiful country together. Have a great trip and see you soon!
Meals: B.
- 10 breakfasts, 8 lunches, and 8 dinners.
- Pick up from Lima airport on Day 1 and all transfers throughout the trip.
- Accommodation in comfortable and central hotels in Lima, the Sacred Valley, and Cusco.
- 4 nights camping along the Inca Trail with high-quality camping equipment.
- Private guide
- Private transportation, including airport transfers and train tickets from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo.
- medical kit and Oxigen tank for safety
- All necessary camping equipment: tents, dining tent, tables, chairs, and kitchen gear.
- Porters and Horses to carry personal gear and group camping equipment.
- Entrance tickets including Machu Picchu and Huayna Picchu
- Half-day city tour of Lima, with visits to historic and modern districts.
- Guided Sacred Valley tour, including Ollantaytambo, Pisac, Chinchero, Moray, and Maras.
- Private guided city tour of Cusco, including the option to visit Sacsayhuaman, Q’enko, and Puca Pucara.
- International and domestic flights and related taxes.
- Gratuities for guides, porters, and drivers.
- Travel Insurance
- Personal expenses, such as additional snacks, drinks, or souvenirs.
- Additional activities not mentioned in the itinerary.
- Meals not listed in the itinerary.
- Essential Documents:
- Valid passport (required for Inca Trail entry).
- Copies of important documents (passport, travel insurance, permits, etc.).
- Cash (Peruvian soles & small USD bills) and credit/debit cards.
- Clothing:
- Hiking boots (comfortable and broken in).
- Lightweight trekking pants (convertible to shorts are ideal).
- Moisture-wicking shirts (short and long sleeve).
- Fleece or insulated jacket for cold nights.
- Waterproof jacket or poncho (essential for rain protection).
- Thermal base layers (for high-altitude nights).
- Gloves, hat, and scarf for cold weather.
- Sun hat and sunglasses for daytime hiking.
- Comfortable clothes for city tours and hotel stays.
- Gear and Equipment:
- Daypack (small, comfortable, and lightweight).
- Sleeping bag (four-season recommended, can be rented).
- Headlamp or flashlight with extra batteries.
- Reusable water bottle or hydration system (CamelBak recommended).
- Walking poles (highly recommended, must have rubber tips for Inca Trail).
- Quick-dry towel.
- Earplugs (for better sleep at campsites).
- Personal Items:
- Toiletries (biodegradable soap, toothbrush, toothpaste, deodorant, etc.).
- Sunscreen (high SPF).
- Insect repellent (containing DEET).
- Lip balm with SPF.
- Wet wipes and hand sanitizer.
- Medications (personal prescriptions, altitude sickness tablets, pain relievers, etc.).
- Blister plasters and first aid essentials.
- Extras:
- Camera or smartphone with extra memory and battery pack.
- Notebook or journal.
- Snacks (energy bars, nuts, dried fruit).
- Lightweight books or playing cards for downtime.
- Plastic bags (to keep gear dry and separate dirty clothes).
Important Notes:
- Porters will carry a portion of your gear, but your daypack should include essentials like water, snacks, camera, and extra layers.
- Pack light! The weight limit for your duffel bag (carried by porters) is typically 7 kg (15 lbs), including your sleeping bag.
- Temperatures can vary drastically; layering is key.
Location for: 10 Days Inca Trail Discovery – Km 82
- Do I need a permit for the Inca Trail?
Yes, permits for the Inca Trail are required and have limited availability. We recommend booking several months in advance to secure your spot. Our team will handle all necessary permit arrangements for you. - What is the best time of year to do this tour?
The best time to hike the Inca Trail is during the dry season, from **April to October**, when there is less rainfall and clearer views. The wet season (**November to March**) can bring heavy rain, but the landscape is greener and less crowded. - How difficult is the Inca Trail trek?
The trek is considered **moderate to challenging**. It involves high-altitude hiking, steep ascents and descents, and long walking days. Good physical condition and prior hiking experience are recommended. - What is the highest altitude reached on the trek?
The highest point of the Inca Trail is **Dead Woman’s Pass (Warmihuañusca) at 4,224 meters (13,860 feet)**. Acclimatization in Cusco or the Sacred Valley before the trek is highly recommended. - What type of accommodation is included?
The tour includes **comfortable hotels in Lima, Cusco, and the Sacred Valley**, as well as **four nights of camping** along the Inca Trail. All necessary camping equipment is provided. - Do porters carry my gear?
Yes, porters will carry up to **7 kg (15 lbs)** of your personal belongings, including your sleeping bag and extra clothing. You will only need to carry a **daypack** with essentials like water, snacks, a camera, and extra layers. - What meals are included?
This tour includes **10 breakfasts, 8 lunches, and 8 dinners**. During the trek, you will enjoy freshly prepared meals by our expert trekking chefs. - Is altitude sickness a concern?
Yes, altitude sickness can affect travelers in Cusco (3,400 meters/11,155 feet) and higher elevations on the trek. We recommend acclimatizing for at least **two days before the trek**, staying hydrated, avoiding alcohol, and considering altitude sickness medication if needed. - What should I pack for the trek?
We provide a detailed **packing list**, but essentials include **hiking boots, layered clothing, a rain jacket, sunscreen, insect repellent, a hat, and a reusable water bottle**. Sleeping bags and trekking poles can be rented if needed. - What happens on the last day in Lima?
Upon arrival in Lima, we will take you on a **half-day city tour**, visiting **the Historic Center, Miraflores, and San Isidro**. Afterward, you will have time for lunch and relaxation before your **evening international flight**.