Ancient Peru: Inca Trail Camping Trek to Machu Picchu with Jamie
Your TourHero
Hey everyone! I’m Jamie, and I love to trek! I’ve been all over the national parks in the US and I just got back from Patagonia. It was a blast! I’ve been trying to hike the Inca Trail and decided to create this trip to find other people like me who want to vacation off the beaten path. Literally! Come with me on this incredible journey to Peru and explore the ancient sites once traveled by the greats!
Duration
7 days · 6 nights
Travel Date
Mar 14 – 20, 2022
Activity Level
Strenuous
Group Size
10 – 60
Transportation
Van, bus, train
Tour Price
Your Fellow Explorers
Age range
18 - 30
Travel interest
Hiking, nature, adventure, history & culture
Your Local Guide
With a passion for creating unique and customizable itineraries that highlight authentic experiences in Peru, the team at Peruvian Soul ensures that no two trips with them are ever the same. Let them take you on a journey to discover the very best of the country, from hidden gems to iconic locations. The team is equipped with valuable education, training, and experience to ensure your safety and comfort. They’ll take care of all the nitty gritty details for you — all you need to do is enjoy a smooth and unforgettable trip!
The ancient Inca Empire is known throughout the world for their power and incredible cities. Take the road less traveled on a camping trek along the Inca Trail to the iconic citadel of Machu Picchu and walk the path of this majestic civilization. The trip includes all trekking gear with porters, chefs, assistants, and guides to support you along the way, so you can take in this surreal experience. You’ll stop at multiple archeological sites on the trail and have free time in Cusco before and after the trek to get acclimated to the high altitude and explore the city that was once the capital of the empire. If you love to hike and can hack the strenuous terrain, come with us on the trip of a lifetime and discover the beauty of Peru on foot. When you book your trip, you’re also giving back to the local community through Peruvian Soul’s Traveling with a Purpose program. Each traveler’s booking funds the planting and growth of 15 native trees in the Andes and provides students with disabilities a day’s worth of therapy treatment at the Paqari School in Urubamba.
Cancellation policy
Refunds for deposits
If you cancel your trip after placing a deposit but before your card on file is charged for the full payment, you can request a full refund of your deposit up to 30 days before the tour departure.
Refunds for fully-paid trips
If you cancel your trip after making the full payment, you may change or cancel your trip up to 30 days before the tour departure for a refund.
Your TourHero
Hey everyone! I’m Jamie, and I love to trek! I’ve been all over the national parks in the US and I just got back from Patagonia. It was a blast! I’ve been trying to hike the Inca Trail and decided to create this trip to find other people like me who want to vacation off the beaten path. Literally! Come with me on this incredible journey to Peru and explore the ancient sites once traveled by the greats!
Duration
7 days · 6 nights
Travel Date
Mar 14 – 20, 2022
Activity Level
Strenuous
Group Size
10 – 60
Transportation
Van, bus, train
The ancient Inca Empire is known throughout the world for their power and incredible cities. Take the road less traveled on a camping trek along the Inca Trail to the iconic citadel of Machu Picchu and walk the path of this majestic civilization. The trip includes all trekking gear with porters, chefs, assistants, and guides to support you along the way, so you can take in this surreal experience. You’ll stop at multiple archeological sites on the trail and have free time in Cusco before and after the trek to get acclimated to the high altitude and explore the city that was once the capital of the empire. If you love to hike and can hack the strenuous terrain, come with us on the trip of a lifetime and discover the beauty of Peru on foot. When you book your trip, you’re also giving back to the local community through Peruvian Soul’s Traveling with a Purpose program. Each traveler’s booking funds the planting and growth of 15 native trees in the Andes and provides students with disabilities a day’s worth of therapy treatment at the Paqari School in Urubamba.
Timeline
- Day 1 · Cusco
- Arrive in Cusco
- Transfer from airport to accommodation
- Check-in at Terra Andina Colonial Mansion (or similar according to availability)
- Welcome briefing
- Dinner (not included in price)
- Day 2 · Cusco
- Breakfast
- Free day to explore Cusco
- Lunch and dinner (not included in price)
- Day 3 · Inca Trail
- Breakfast and check out of accommodation
- Transfer from accommodation to train
- Train to Inca Trail starting point
- Hike from Piscacucho to Huayllabamba (lunch included)
- Dinner
- Day 4 · Inca Trail
- Breakfast
- Hike from Huayllabamba to Pacaymayo (lunch included)
- Dinner
- Day 5 · Inca Trail
- Breakfast
- Hike from Pacaymayo to Wiñaywayna (lunch included)
- Dinner
- Day 6 · Machu Picchu & Cusco
- Breakfast
- Hike to Machu Picchu and guided tour (lunch included)
- Bus from Machu Picchu to Aguas Calientes
- Train from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo
- Transfer from Ollantaytambo to accommodation
- Check-in at Terra Andina Colonial Mansion (or similar according to availability)
- Dinner (not included in price)
- Day 7 · Departure
- Breakfast and check out of accommodation
- Free time in Cusco
- Transfer from accommodation to airport
- Journey ends
Details
Day 1
Welcome to Cusco, Peru – the gateway to your ancient trek along the Inca Trail!
Welcome to Cusco, the former capital of the Inca Empire and a bustling city that has a wealth of culture and history. Upon arrival, you’ll take your private transfer to the hotel for a quick briefing, then you’re free to explore the area and get acclimated to the 11,000 ft elevation. Take it slow and enjoy the city, as our luxe hotel is located right in the middle of the historic district in downtown. Grab an authentic Peruvian dinner and let this trip commence!
Day 2
Free day to explore Cusco, a UNESCO World Heritage Site
Good morning, travelers! Wake up slowly and enjoy a delicious breakfast at the hotel before exploring the area. You have the entire day to yourselves, so live it up! If you want to hit the iconic spots of Cusco, head to the Main Square, the San Francisco Church, the Qorikancha Temple, and the San Pedro Market, all of which make this UNESCO World Heritage Site so impressive. You can always book a guided city tour or head to one of the many local museums to learn about Cusco’s history. Don’t be afraid to eat your way through the town, as there are myriad options for Peruvian fare – traditional and modern. You can also take a trip to Cuesta San Blas which features arts and crafts from local makers. Grab a few things for your loved ones back home and enjoy this day to relax and explore!
Day 3
Embark on our Inca Trail journey – Piscacucho to Huayllabamba
Rise and shine, adventure seekers! Today, we’ll check out of the hotel and hit the trail, making our way from Piscacucho to Huayllabamba. After meeting our porters and registering at the trail’s checkpoint, we’ll hike seven and a half miles to the community of Huayllabamba located in the Sacred Valley of the Incas. First, we’ll cross the Urubamba River and climb the trail until we reach the Llactapata archeological site where we’ll stop for lunch and exploration. Next, we’ll leave the Urubamba Valley and trek uphill towards the Kusichaca River. When dusk hits, we’ll stop, set up camp in Huayllabamba and toast to the end of day one on the trail. Get a good night’s sleep tonight. Tomorrow, we’ll reach the highest elevation on the trek!
Day 4
Trek from Huayllabamba to Pacaymayo
We hope you got a good night’s sleep because today is a big one! After breakfast, we’ll continue on our journey, hiking almost seven miles to our next campsite. The first hour will be the hardest part of the trek, as we make our way to Ayapata and climb over 13,000 ft! We’ll follow the trail to the Llullucha river and reach a rest area where we can buy snacks and use the restroom before heading back into the wilderness. Next, we’ll make our way to Warmiwanusqa (Dead Woman’s Pass), which is the highest point on the trail reaching 13,776 ft! It may be a difficult trek but the views of the mountain range and lush foliage will keep us going. We’ll take some time here to catch our breath and snap some pictures to mark the occasion. Lastly, we’ll make our way down to the Pacaymayo campsite and enjoy a much-deserved meal after a long day on the trail.
Day 5
Journey from Pacaymayo to Wiñaywayna and explore multiple Inca sites along the way
Yesterday may have felt daunting, but today is full of idyllic vistas and ancient ruins. After breakfast, we’ll start our 10-mile trek by heading to Runkuraqay, an ancient site with a picturesque backdrop featuring Pumasillo Peak and the snow-capped Veronica Mountain. From here, we’ll start our descent to the archeological site of Sayacmarka with time to explore this impressive place. Next, we’ll pass through an ancient stairway and an Inca tunnel carved from rock that will lead us to Puyupata Pass. Here, we'll take in the sights and enjoy lunch. Once we refuel, we’ll make our way to Phuyupatamarca through the cloud forest where we’ll find some of the most beautiful backdrops this trek has to offer. By dusk, we’ll reach Wiñaywayna, a sister site to Machu Picchu where archeologists believe the ancient Incas rested on their way to the iconic citadel. We will do the same and rest up for our last day of adventure on the trail!
Day 6
Explore Machu Picchu and head back to Cusco
Today is the day we’ve been waiting for! After breakfast, we’ll hike about three miles to Intipunku (the Sun Gate), which rests at the top of the citadel. From here, we’ll catch our first views of Machu Picchu and make our way down into the site. Our guide will take us through the ruins and tell us all about its incredible history, pointing out famous landmarks, such as the Principal Temple, the Royal Tomb, the Sacred Rock, and the Temple of Three Windows. After time for exploration, we’ll take the bus down to Aguas Calientes, the town at the bottom of this incredible place. We’ll board our train and travel to Ollantaytambo, the only remaining inhabited Inca city. From here, we’ll take our private transport back to Cusco and check into the hotel. After a long day, you’re free to enjoy a meal of your choosing and get the best sleep of your life!
Day 7
Head home after an incredible trek
Who can believe our seven days in Peru have already come and gone, but we have so many memories to bring home with us! After breakfast, enjoy free time in Cusco to pick up a few more souvenirs then take your transfer to the airport and start your journey home. We hope you had an incredible time and will come back for more fun. Until then, safe travels!
Accommodation
Terra Andina Colonial Mansion (or similar according to availability)
Terra Andina is a gorgeous mansion that’s located right in the heart of Cusco’s historic district. You’re within blocks of the Main Square and iconic attractions, such as the San Pedro Market and Church. The hotel has a reputation for their first class customer service and offers every amenity you need to enjoy a stay in Peru, long or short. You’ll find comfortable bedding in the rooms, along with en suite baths, TVs, safes, and the like. The hotel also features a restaurant on site with American breakfast served each morning, a bar, in-room massage, laundry, and so much more making this the perfect place to start and end your Inca Trail trek. Room type: Twin share rooms.
Tent camping on the Inca Trail
During our time on the Inca Trail, we’ll set up camp at various locations along the way to Machu Picchu. Our guides, porters, and assistants will ensure we have everything we need to rest comfortably on our journey. They’ll provide food, shelter, and all other necessities for your convenience, so you can soak in the views and the ancient experience. Room type: Two people per two-person tent.
Included
- 3 nights at Terra Andina Colonial Mansion (or similar)
- 3 nights at various campsites along the Inca Trail
- Shared occupancy in accommodation
- All breakfasts
- All food on the trail
- Private airport/excursion transfers
- All trekking/camping equipment
- Expedition trains to/from Machu Picchu
- All entrance fees necessary for our services on this trip
- Professional English-speaking guide
Not included
- Flights
- All food not mentioned in inclusions
- Personal expenses not stipulated
- Optional add-ons
- Gratuities
- Travel insurance
Available add-on
Extra night in Cusco and full-day excursion to Rainbow Mountain
There is so much to see and enjoy in Peru, so why not stay another night? For a small fee, we’ll book you an extra night in Cusco and send you on a full-day excursion to the iconic Rainbow Mountain where you’ll embark on a four-mile hike up and down the colorful passes. However, be aware that this journey will take you to an elevation of over 17,000 ft, so be sure you’re in the right shape and mindset to complete the task! While it may feel difficult, the views of the surreal landscape will make up for your troubles and fill your heart with majestic wonder. This add-on includes a hotel room, private transport, guide, entrance ticket, and a box lunch for your hike.
Price: USD 163
20 spots left
Cancellation policy
Refunds for deposits
If you cancel your trip after placing a deposit but before your card on file is charged for the full payment, you can request a full refund of your deposit up to 30 days before the tour departure.
Refunds for fully-paid trips
If you cancel your trip after making the full payment, you may change or cancel your trip up to 30 days before the tour departure for a refund.
- Enjoy the comfortable bedding, hotel amenities, and its prime location within Cusco's historic district. - Terra Andina website
- Welcome to your home away from home. When you're not on the Inca Trail, you'll be resting your head in this gorgeous colonial mansion. - Terra Andina website
- Eat breakfast in the beautiful restaurant and enjoy the flavors of Peru for dinner. - Terra Andina website
- The city of Cusco, ancient capital of the Inca Empire. - Peruvian Soul
- You won't find views like these anywhere else! - Peruvian Soul
- On the trail, your guides and porters will make sure you have everything you need to set up camp each night for a restful sleep. - Facebook: Peruvian Soul
- From food to shelter, your guides will have it all! - Peruvian Soul
- Head to the Main Square and check out the San Pedro Market and San Pedro Church. - Unsplash: Renny Gamarra
- No trip to Cusco is complete without a trip to Qorikancha. This historic church was built atop ancient Inca ruins that date back to 1438 and was created for the sun god El Inti. - Unsplash: Amauri Mejía
- Walk through the colorful streets and buy some handmade souvenirs along the way. - Unsplash: NINA PASCAL
- Grab a quick bite at the market or head to a traditional restaurant for an authentic Peruvian meal. - Unsplash: Ashim D’Silva
- At Llactapata, we'll stop for lunch and explore these beautiful Inca ruins. - Wikimedia Commons: Chuck Moravec
- On our way to Huayllabamba, we'll start a gentle climb alongside the river until we reach the archeological site of Llactapata. - Pixabay: Mrivasco
- Today, we start our trek on the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu. - Unsplash: KAL VISUALS
- Today, we'll face the most difficult part of the trail as we make our way to Dead Woman's Pass. - Flickr: Phil Whitehouse
- Jump for joy at over 13,000 ft! - Flickr: Bex Walton
- We'll start our hike by heading to Runkuraqay where we'll enjoy views of Pumasillo peak and the snow-capped Veronica Mountain. - Peruvian Soul
- At Runkuraqay, we'll have time to explore the site and take all the pictures we can. - Flickr: Paul Heaberlin
- We'll also stop at Sayacmarca, an impressive Inca site located at over 11,000 ft. - Flickr: Julie Edgley
- Our last stop of the day is at Wiñaywayna, a beautiful Inca site where we'll set up camp. - Flickr: Wasif Malik
- We'll make our way down into the site and learn the ins and outs of Machu Picchu from our guide. - Pixabay: Poswiecie
- We'll start our Machu Picchu experience up at the Sun Gate and work our way down into the citadel. - Pixabay: AdamHillTravel
- After we explore, we'll head down to the base of the mountain and catch the train to Ollantaytambo. - Peruvian Soul
- Spend an extra night in Cusco and take a trip to Rainbow Mountain for a full-day hike over this colorful landscape. - Unsplash: Roi Dimor
- Cusco - Unsplash: Adrian Dascal