



Explore Inca Trail: Hike to Machu Picchu and Discover Peru’s Natural Wonders
Explore Inca Trail with Qoricancha Expeditions and experience an unforgettable adventure. Our expertly designed itinerary takes you through the Sacred Valley, the Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, the peaceful Humantay Lagoon, and the stunning Rainbow Mountain.
Your journey begins in the Sacred Valley, where ancient history meets breathtaking natural beauty. The Short Inca Trail is a rewarding trek that leads you directly to Machu Picchu, one of the world’s most iconic landmarks. As you explore this ancient Incan city, you’ll be amazed by the impressive stone structures and the fascinating history behind them.
Next, visit the serene Humantay Lagoon, a peaceful destination surrounded by towering peaks. The stunning turquoise waters provide the perfect place to relax and reflect on your journey before moving on to the next adventure.
Finally, witness the vibrant colors of Rainbow Mountain. Known for its striking multicolored slopes, Rainbow Mountain is one of the most visually stunning natural wonders in the world. Its unique geological formations and bright hues make it a must-see for anyone exploring the beauty of Peru.
Qoricancha Expeditions offers the best Inca Trail tours, blending history, culture, and breathtaking landscapes. Whether you’re an experienced hiker or a first-time traveler, our tours provide an unforgettable experience. Discover the magic of Peru with us.
ITINERARY
Day 01: Sacred Valley Tour – Discover Inca Heritage and Culture
Your Tours Inca Trail Peru adventure begins with a pick-up from your hotel in Cusco at 8:00 am. Enjoy a picturesque drive through the Sacred Valley, with stunning views of the valley and mountains along the way. Your knowledgeable guide will make stops at various points, ensuring you can fully appreciate and capture the breathtaking scenery that defines this iconic region of Peru.
A highlight of the day is a visit to an Alpaca farm, where you’ll have the delightful opportunity to encounter llamas, alpacas, vicuñas, and guanacos up close. Your guide will share fascinating insights into these South American camelids, helping you distinguish between them and learn about their unique characteristics, including the traditional weaving techniques that are integral to the local culture.
Continuing your journey, you’ll visit the Pisac Inca site, one of the largest and most significant Inca sites in the Sacred Valley. Primarily constructed for agricultural purposes, the site features distinct sectors, including urban, religious, and agricultural areas. Your guide will lead you on a tour, providing historical context and sharing intriguing details about the site’s design and purpose. After exploring Pisac, head to the town of Pisac itself, where you’ll have the chance to visit the vibrant local market. This market offers a window into the traditional exchange of products still practiced by the local population, making it an ideal spot to shop for handmade souvenirs.
Following the market visit, you’ll travel to Urubamba for a delicious lunch. Afterward, your tour continues to the Ollantaytambo Inca site, often referred to as the last living Inca city. Ollantaytambo is renowned for its impressive rock formations that represent the Inca god Wiracocha. Your guide will provide a comprehensive tour of this fascinating site, explaining its historical and cultural significance.
The day concludes with your arrival in Ollantaytambo town, where your guide will escort you to your hotel. You’ll have free time in the afternoon to explore this charming town at your own pace. The tour typically ends around 4:00 pm, giving you ample time to relax and take in the surroundings.
Accomodation: Sol Natura *** or similar.
Tickets: Included
Meals: Only Lunch.
Day 02: Hike the Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu – A Journey Through Ancient Paths
The adventure begins early at 5:45 AM, when we pick you up from your hotel in Ollantaytambo. After a short walk to the train station, we board the train to km 104, the starting point of your Short Inca Trail. At this checkpoint, you’ll need to show your original passport and get it stamped if you wish, marking the beginning of your Inca Trail Peru tour.
Once ready, you’ll begin your hike with a visit to the Chacabamba Inca site, located at the trailhead. Here, your guide will provide a fascinating historical tour of the site. The journey continues with a gradual uphill climb lasting about 3.5 hours, where you will stop at scenic points to capture breathtaking views, enjoy some snacks, and take in the natural surroundings. As you walk through a cloud forest, you’ll have the opportunity to spot exotic flora, particularly orchids, and observe hummingbirds fluttering in the air.
The next stop on your Inca Trail Peru tour is the impressive Wiñay Wayna, a spectacular Inca site often described as a “small Machu Picchu.” Here, you’ll enjoy a guided tour to learn about its significance and have some free time to explore this amazing archaeological site.
Afterward, you’ll enjoy a delicious lunch before resuming your hike. With about an hour left, you’ll ascend to the Sun Gate (Inti Punku), an exclusive vantage point for Inca Trail hikers, offering a spectacular view of Machu Picchu. Arriving around 2:00 PM, you’ll be treated to magnificent views of the citadel, especially in the afternoon light, and possibly witness the sunset over the ancient ruins.
From the Sun Gate, the trail descends gradually for another hour until you reach the Machu Picchu citadel. The trail leads you to the upper part of the site, providing some of the best panoramic views of the iconic Machu Picchu ruins. You’ll have plenty of time to explore, take photos, and soak in the incredible scenery.
Finally, you’ll take a bus down to the town of Aguas Calientes, where you’ll check into your hotel. After a refreshing shower, enjoy a well-deserved dinner at a local restaurant to conclude your unforgettable day on the Short Inca Trail Peru.
Accomodation: Tierra Viva Machu Picchu *** or similar
Tickets: Included
Meals: breakfast – lunch and dinner
Day 03: Machu picchu and back to Cusco.
Today is the most anticipated day of your Inca Trail Peru tour! After an early breakfast, your guide will meet you at your hotel and accompany you to one of the first buses to Machu Picchu. Upon arrival, your guide will take you to the highest point of the site, where you’ll have the chance to witness the sunrise (season-dependent) and capture breathtaking photos of Machu Picchu in its early morning splendor.
Take your time to absorb the awe-inspiring beauty of the New Wonder of the World. Your guide will then lead you on a comprehensive walking tour of Machu Picchu, exploring the most significant sectors and palaces within this incredible Inca citadel. This guided tour typically lasts about 2.5 hours, providing historical insights and in-depth details about the site’s fascinating past.
After the tour, if you’ve secured a Huayna Picchu ticket, you’ll have the option to hike this famous mountain. The Huayna Picchu trek is a challenging yet rewarding ascent that takes approximately 2 hours. The hike offers unparalleled views and a unique perspective of Machu Picchu from above. Please note that Huayna Picchu tickets must be booked in advance and cost $75 each.
If you do not have a Huayna Picchu ticket, you’ll say farewell to the Lost City of the Incas and take a bus down to Aguas Calientes. Here, you’ll enjoy a final lunch with the group (lunch not included).
In the afternoon, you’ll board a train to Ollantaytambo, where our driver will be waiting to take you back to Cusco and your hotel. The estimated arrival time in Cusco is around 8:00 pm, marking the end of your unforgettable journey through the Short Inca Trail and Machu Picchu.
Accomodation: Tierra Viva Hotel or similar
Tickets: Include
Meals: Only breakfast at hotel.
Day 04: Humantay Lake Hike – Best Salkantay Trek Views in One Day.
Prepare for an exhilarating full-day adventure! Your guide will pick you up from your hotel promptly at 4:00 AM to begin the journey. After a scenic 2-hour drive, we’ll arrive in Mollepata, a charming local village, where we’ll enjoy a hearty breakfast. From there, we continue on a 1-hour drive along a dusty road to Soraypampa, located at an elevation of 3,850 meters. Due to the high altitude, the air can be chilly, so be sure to layer up with warm clothing, gloves, and a hat.
From May to October, the weather is typically sunny, so don’t forget a good sunhat and sunscreen. Once we’re all set, we begin our Humantay Lake hike, a 2-hour ascent leading us through stunning landscapes. The final stretch is steeper, but the best Salkantay trek views that await make every step worth it. Humantay Lake is nestled among towering mountains and is adorned with gleaming glaciers, including the Salkantay glacier, the second-highest peak in the Cusco region.
Upon reaching the lake, you’ll be mesmerized by its beauty. The tranquil surroundings are perfect for soaking in the serenity of this incredible natural wonder. After fully immersing ourselves in the magic of Humantay Lake, we retrace our steps back down the trail, a hike that takes approximately 1.5 hours.
Once we return to Soraypampa, we’ll board our transportation for the journey back to Mollepata, where a delicious lunch awaits. After lunch, we will embark on the 2-hour drive back to Cusco, where you can expect to arrive around 6:00 PM, concluding this unforgettable day filled with stunning landscapes and awe-inspiring experiences.
Accomodation: Tierra Viva Hotels.
Ticket: Included
Meals: breakfast and lunch
Day 05: Rainbow Mountain & Red Valley 1 Day Hike – Best Day Hike in Cusco.
Get ready for an unforgettable day! Your guide will pick you up from your hotel at 4:00 AM, and we’ll begin our 3-hour drive to the trailhead. Along the way, we’ll stop for a hearty breakfast to fuel up for the journey ahead.
Once we reach the trailhead, situated at an elevation of 4,350 meters, it’s time to prepare for the Rainbow Mountain & Red Valley 1 day hike. The region is known for its cold and dry climate due to the high altitude, so be sure to dress warmly and get ready for the adventure. The trek is approximately 4 kilometers long, lasting about 2.5 hours, as we ascend to the summit of Rainbow Mountain (also known as Winikunqa), which stands at a staggering 5,150 meters above sea level.
Upon reaching the summit, you’ll have plenty of time to absorb the stunning views of Rainbow Mountain, capturing memorable photographs of its vibrant, multicolored slopes. The striking hues of Rainbow Mountain are a sight to behold, making this one of the best day hikes in Cusco.
But the adventure doesn’t stop there. We’ll continue our hike to explore the Red Valley, located on the backside of Rainbow Mountain. From a higher vantage point, you’ll be treated to a panoramic view of this unique all-red valley, offering another breathtaking and photogenic landscape.
After relishing the wonders of both Rainbow Mountain and the Red Valley, we’ll retrace our steps along the same path, returning to where our driver awaits. We’ll then enjoy a scenic 50-minute drive to a local restaurant, where you’ll indulge in a delicious and well-deserved lunch. Following the meal, we’ll head back to Cusco, where you’ll be dropped off at your hotel. Expect to return to Cusco by approximately 5:30 PM, concluding this extraordinary adventure filled with stunning natural landscapes and unforgettable experiences.
Accomodation: Tierra Viva Hotelsor similar
Ticket: Included
Meals: B – L.
TRAVEL INFO
Packing List for Inca Trail Peru and Machu Picchu.
✔️ Original Passport: Required for entry to Machu Picchu and to ensure smooth access to the Inca Trail Peru tours. Your passport is essential for verification at checkpoints, and it will be stamped when you enter the sacred site.
✔️ Small Day Pack: A lightweight and compact day pack is recommended to carry all your essentials ( 25 – 30L), including snacks, water, and personal items, while keeping your hands free for trekking.
✔️ Insect Repellent: Machu Picchu and the Short Inca Trail are located at the edge of the jungle, so it’s important to have insect repellent to protect against mosquitoes and other insects. This is particularly useful when hiking in the lush lower altitudes.
✔️ Sun Hat & Sunscreen: Protect yourself from the sun’s rays while trekking at high altitudes. A sun hat will shield your face and neck, and sunscreen will prevent sunburn during your journey through the Sacred Valley and up to Rainbow Mountain.
✔️ Rain Gear: From November to April, the region experiences its wet season, so rain gear such as a poncho or waterproof jacket is essential for staying dry while hiking, especially on the Short Inca Trail Peru and the Humantay Lake hike.
✔️ Camera: Capture the breathtaking Inca Trail Peru views, the vibrant colors of Rainbow Mountain, and the awe-inspiring beauty of Humantay Lake with a good camera. Don’t forget extra batteries and memory cards to record every special moment.
✔️ Water: Staying hydrated is crucial during your hikes. Make sure to bring enough water to sustain you through the challenging altitudes of the Short Inca Trail, Rainbow Mountain, and other treks in the Sacred Valley.
✔️ Snacks: Energy-boosting snacks such as trail mix, granola bars, or fruit will keep you fueled during the hike. These are especially important during long treks like the Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu or Rainbow Mountain & Red Valley 1 Day Hike.
✔️ Trekking Clothes: Trekking clothes should be breathable, moisture-wicking, and adaptable to varying weather conditions. Layering is essential as temperatures can fluctuate drastically, particularly at high altitudes.
✔️ Hiking Shoes: A good pair of hiking shoes is essential for comfort and safety on the rugged trails of the Inca Trail Peru, Humantay Lake hike, and Rainbow Mountain trek. Choose shoes with good traction and ankle support to navigate the diverse terrain.
Never is late to travel and enjoy these amazing sites, travel and enjoy with Local tour operator, feel free to contact us!
INCLUSIONS
Inclusions for Your Inca Trail Peru Adventure and Machu Picchu Tour
✅ Briefing the Night Before (6 pm): A comprehensive briefing before your Inca Trail Peru tour ensures you’re well-prepared for the adventure ahead. This session will cover important details and answer any questions you may have.
✅ Experienced English-Speaking Tour Guide: A professional, knowledgeable, and English-speaking guide will lead you throughout the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu, sharing valuable insights into the history, culture, and natural beauty of Peru.
✅ Entry Fee for Sacred Valley: All entry fees to the Sacred Valley, including notable sites like Pisac and Ollantaytambo, are covered in your tour package.
✅ Round Trip Expeditions Tourist Class Train: Enjoy a comfortable round-trip train ride in tourist class, offering stunning views of the Sacred Valley as you travel to and from Aguas Calientes.
✅ 3-Star Hotel in Sacred Valley and Aguas Calientes: Stay in a well-appointed 3-star hotel in Cusco, Sacred Valley and Aguas Calientes, with breakfast included for a restful night before your hikes.
✅ Meals: Enjoy delicious lunch on Day 1 and a combination of lunch and dinner on Day 2, offering a taste of traditional Peruvian cuisine during your trek and stay. hotels include breakfast.
✅ Round-Trip Bus Ticket to Machu Picchu: Your tour includes a round-trip bus ticket to Machu Picchu, providing convenient access to this iconic Inca site.
✅ Inca Trail and Machu Picchu Entry Fees: The necessary entry fees for both the Inca Trail and Machu Picchu are included, ensuring a hassle-free experience at these UNESCO World Heritage sites.
✅ Fully Guided Tour: A fully guided tour throughout your journey, from the Sacred Valley to the Short Inca Trail and Machu Picchu, will provide an in-depth exploration of Peru’s cultural and historical landmarks.
✅ Taxes: All taxes, including local taxes for entry to sacred sites, are covered in the tour package price.
✅ Oxygen Tank and First Aid Kit: To ensure your safety during the trek, an oxygen tank and a first aid kit will be provided, giving you peace of mind during your high-altitude adventures.
EXCLUDED
❌ Hotel: Before and After the Tour.
❌ Meals. some meals are not includes according the itinerary.
❌ Gratuities: Optional gratuities for your guide and driver, appreciated but not mandatory.
❌ Travel Insurance: Recommended but not required for added peace of mind during your adventure.
UPGRADE ONES. you may upgrade the following:
❌ Huayna Picchu: $75 per ticket. Hike after your Machu Picchu tour (must be booked in advance).
❌ Vistadome Panoramic Train: $65 one-way or $120 round trip for stunning panoramic views.
❌ Hotel Upgrade: Upgrade from a 3-star hotel to a 4-star or luxury 5-star hotel for extra comfort.
PRICE
Adults, Group service
$ 850.00 USD
per person (Min. 2 people)
FAQS
Why Travel with Qoricancha Expeditions?
Expertise and Excellence: Qoricancha Expeditions is renowned for its commitment to excellence in guiding and customer service. With their experienced team, you’re in the hands of professionals who will ensure a memorable and hassle-free experience.
Cultural Immersion: Immerse yourself in the rich culture and history of Peru. Qoricancha Expeditions provides expert guides who will share their deep knowledge of the region, offering insights into the ancient Inca civilization and local traditions.
Small Group Advantage: Smaller tour group sizes allow for a more intimate experience, increased interaction with guides, and the opportunity to form connections with fellow travelers.
Memories for a Lifetime: Traveling with Qoricancha Expeditions guarantees not only an unforgettable adventure but also memories that will stay with you forever. It’s a journey that promises to leave you with a profound appreciation for the wonders of Peru.
Thank you for Traveling with Qoricancha Expeditions!