Inca Trail and Machu Picchu 8 Days

Daily program

Itinerary

DAY 1

Lima

Your journey begins in Lima (Approx. 154m / 505ft), Peru’s capital city. The Plaza Mayor located in the heart of the historic center is a good starting point for your exploration. You can visit the Museo de la Inquisicion for a look into the Spanish Inquisition or see the catacombs at the Monasterio de San Francisco.

As evening approaches you might want to find some of Peru’s well-known food specialties in the modern Miraflores district. Afterward you can join the locals at one of the many active bars in the area to get a feel for the city’s nightlife.

DAY 2

Cuzco

Today you will fly to Cusco (Approx. 3,400m / 11,152ft), the former capital of the Inca Empire. Upon arrival you will begin the important process of acclimatizing to the high altitude. A guided walking tour will show you the main historic sights of the city.

During the tour you will learn about the country’s famous coca tea at the city’s Coca Museum. You will also have time to wander through the colorful stalls of the central market where you can see local produce and crafts.

DAY 3

Sacred Valley/Ollantaytambo

You will travel by road through the changing landscapes of the Sacred Valley. This area is home to many Quechua-speaking villages and was a key agricultural region for the Incas. Your journey ends in the small town of Ollantaytambo (Approx. 2,792m / 9,160ft).

Here you have the option to join a guided tour of the ancient Inca stronghold which features fortresses built into the cliffs. You can also explore the street stalls to look for warm woolen goods made by local artisans.

Days 4-7

Inca Trail/Machu Picchu/Cuzco

You will set out on the mighty Inca Trail a path that was once a main trade route for the ancient Peruvian empire. The trek involves climbing over difficult mountain passes including the 4,198-meter-high Warmiwañusca or ‘Dead Woman’s Pass’.

Each evening you will camp out surrounded by high mountain views. On the final morning you will climb the steps to the Sun Gate and see Machu Picchu appear through the morning mist. You’ll have time to take in the scene before spending the day uncovering the history of the ruins with your guide. You will then return to Cusco for the night.

DAY 8

Cuzco

This is the final day of the tour and it concludes after breakfast in Cusco. There is still much to see in this city so it is worth considering spending a few more days here on your own. You could divide your time between checking out more of the city’s markets and resting your legs in one of the many good cafes in town.

What's included

Inclusions & Exclusions

Meals: 7 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 3 dinners This plan covers your breakfast for each morning of the trip. It also includes all meals during the four-day Inca Trail trek which are prepared by a dedicated cooking crew to be nutritious and energizing for the high-altitude hiking.
Accommodation: Hotel (4 nts), Camping (3 nts) You will stay in standard-class tourist hotels for four nights in Lima Cusco and Ollantaytambo offering private rooms and essential services. The other three nights are spent camping in two-person tents along the Inca Trail which are set up by the crew.
Transport: Plane, Private minibus, Train This package covers all your major transportation after you arrive in Lima. This includes the domestic flight from Lima to Cusco a critical part of the journey as well as private minibus for ground transfers and the train for the return trip from Machu Picchu.
Included Activities: 4-day trek and Machu Picchu guided tour, Coca Museum The main activity is the fully supported four-day Inca Trail trek with a professional guide porters and a cook. This also covers your official entrance ticket to the Machu Picchu historical site and a detailed guided tour to explain its history and purpose.

International Flights The cost of your flights to Lima Peru from your home country and your return flight are not part of the tour price. You are responsible for booking and paying for your own international airfare to and from Peru.
Travel Insurance Travel insurance is a mandatory requirement for this trip and must be purchased separately. Your policy needs to have coverage for medical emergencies including those at high altitude as well as trip cancellation and luggage loss. You must provide proof of insurance.
Meals Not Specified in Itinerary Any lunches or dinners not explicitly listed as included in the day-by-day plan are your own expense. This primarily applies to your time in Lima and Cusco giving you the freedom to explore the local restaurant scenes on your own.
Tips for Guides and Crew Gratuities for your guides porters and cooks are not included in the total trip cost. Tipping is a deeply ingrained cultural norm and a way for you to directly show appreciation for the hard work and dedication of the team that supports you.
Airport Transfers for Independent Time Transfers between the airport and your hotel in Lima at the beginning of the trip and in Cusco at the end of the trip are not included. You are responsible for your own transport to and from the airport on your arrival and departure days.

Choose your package

Prices

EXTRAS & UPGRADES

Lima Catacombs Entry – Monasterio de San Francisco – Day 1 – $8 USD per person (~30 soles — Entry to the famous underground catacombs beneath the 17th-century monastery in Lima’s historic center, containing the remains of over 25,000 people. Cash accepted on-site)
Lima Inquisition Museum Entry – Day 1 – $5 USD per person (The Museo de la Inquisición in the historic Plaza Mayor, featuring original torture instruments and full-scale recreations of the Spanish Inquisition chambers. One of Lima’s most striking historical sites)
Lima Miraflores Foodie Experience – Day 1 – $25–$50 USD per person (A guided culinary tour of the Miraflores district — tasting ceviche, causa, anticuchos, and the iconic Pisco Sour at the best local restaurants and bars. Lima is consistently ranked among the world’s top food cities)
Lima to Cusco Flight – from $60 USD per person (One-way domestic flight from Jorge Chávez International Airport (Lima) to Alejandro Velasco Astete Airport (Cusco). Approximately 1 hour 20 minutes. Must be booked in advance as prices rise with demand. Several daily departures available with LATAM, Sky, and JetSmart)
Coca Museum Entry – Cusco Day 2 – $3 USD per person (~12 soles — A fascinating small museum in central Cusco dedicated entirely to the coca leaf — its history, spiritual significance, medicinal uses, and role in Andean culture. A great introduction to Inca heritage)
San Pedro Central Market Visit – Day 2 – Free (Cusco’s most vibrant local market, just one block from the Plaza de Armas — vendors selling fresh produce, local cheeses, traditional herbal remedies, chicha, and handmade crafts. A must-see cultural stop on arrival day)
Sacred Valley Partial Tourist Ticket (Circuit III) – Day 3 – $20 USD per person (~70 soles — Required to enter Ollantaytambo, Pisac, Moray, and Chinchero. Valid for 2 days. Must be purchased in cash in Peruvian soles at the first site visited)
Ollantaytambo Ruins Guided Tour – Day 3 – Covered by Tourist Ticket (The extraordinary living Inca fortress — massive stone terraces, the unfinished Temple of the Sun with its legendary monolithic doorways, and a sophisticated hydraulic system still in operation today)
Overnight Hotel in Ollantaytambo – Day 3 – from $40 USD per person (A comfortable stay in the charming cobblestone Inca town of Ollantaytambo before the early Inca Trail departure. Prices vary by hotel category)
Sleeping Bag – $20 USD per person per trek (Rated down to -10°C / 14°F — essential for 3 cold nights on the Inca Trail, especially near Dead Woman’s Pass. Cleaned and sanitized after every use. Please request at the time of booking)
Air Mattress / Sleeping Pad – $20 USD per person per trek (Insulated Therm-a-rest style pad. Provides critical warmth and comfort across all 3 campsites on the trail)
Walking / Trekking Poles – $15 USD per pair per trek (Professional adjustable poles. Strongly recommended for the steep descent from Dead Woman’s Pass (Warmiwañusca) at 4,215 m on Day 5. Note: poles are NOT permitted inside Machu Picchu Citadel)
Personal Tent – Single Occupancy Upgrade – $50 USD per person per trek (Standard tents sleep 2 people. A private single tent provides full privacy across all 3 nights on the trail. Please request at the time of booking)
Extra Porter for Personal Belongings – $80 USD (Up to an additional 7 kg / 15 lbs beyond the standard personal porter allowance)
Machu Picchu Circuit 2 Upgrade – $55 USD per person (The standard Inca Trail permit includes Circuit 1 and Circuit 3. Adding Circuit 2 unlocks the full Citadel — Sun Temple, Temple of the Three Windows, Principal Temple, and upper terraces. Strongly recommended)
Huayna Picchu Mountain – $75 USD per person (The iconic steep climb within Machu Picchu Citadel. Extremely limited — please request 5–6 months in advance. Note: closed for maintenance throughout June 2026)
Machu Picchu Mountain – $75 USD per person (A longer, less crowded alternative offering the highest panoramic views of the full Citadel. Requires a second visit on an extra day. Please request at the time of booking)
Huchuy Picchu Mountain – $30 USD per person (The newest and most accessible optional mountain within the Citadel, achievable within the same guided Day 7 visit)
Vistadome Train Upgrade – $67 USD per person (Upgrade your return train from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo from the standard Expedition service to the panoramic Vistadome. Return journey only)
Vistadome Observatory Train Upgrade – $75 USD per person (The most premium train option, with an observatory carriage, live Andean music, and fully panoramic windows. Subject to availability — book at the time of reservation)
Buffet Lunch at Sanctuary Lodge – Day 7 – $40 USD per person (A celebratory buffet with fresh drinks at the only hotel inside the Machu Picchu Historical Sanctuary — the perfect reward after completing the Inca Trail)
Passport Name / Number Change Fee – $25 USD per person (If you renew your passport between booking and departure, a processing fee applies to update your Inca Trail permit, Machu Picchu ticket, and train tickets)

Pricing & Availability – Lima + Cusco + Sacred Valley + Classic Inca Trail 8 Days

This 8-day package is available on any date that suits you, subject to Inca Trail permit availability. Permits are issued by the Peruvian Ministry of Culture, are strictly limited to 500 people per day on the trail (including guides and porters), and are strictly personal and non-transferable. Book at least 5–6 months in advance — high season dates (May–September) sell out within days of the annual October permit release. The trail is closed throughout February for annual maintenance. A non-refundable deposit of $240 USD per person is required at booking to secure your government-issued Inca Trail permit, Machu Picchu entrance ticket, and train tickets. A pre-departure briefing takes place at our office at 6:00 PM the evening before the Inca Trail departure on Day 4.

GROUP SERVICE

$1,347 USD per person
Personal porter included (carries up to 7 kg / 15 lbs in a provided duffel bag)
Discount of $20 USD per person for groups of 5 or more persons

PRIVATE SERVICE

$1,647 USD per person – 2 to 3 persons
$1,547 USD per person – 4 to 6 persons
$1,447 USD per person – 7 to 8 persons

DISCOUNTS

Students (18–25 years old): $30 USD discount. Information required from the student card: name of university, student name, photo of student, and expiration date. A copy of the card is required at the time of booking to obtain government approval for the discount. ISIC cards are not accepted — must be a university-issued card.
Under 18 years old: $30 USD discount. Please send a copy of your passport at the time of booking.
Under 11 years old: $40 USD discount. Please send a copy of your passport at the time of booking. Minimum age to hike the Inca Trail: 12 years old.

Important Notes: This 8-day itinerary begins with a cultural and culinary introduction in Lima (Day 1), followed by a flight to Cusco and guided altitude acclimatization with a city tour and coca museum visit (Day 2), an immersive Sacred Valley journey with an overnight in the Inca town of Ollantaytambo (Day 3), the complete Classic Inca Trail over Dead Woman’s Pass and through the Sun Gate to Machu Picchu (Days 4–7), and a free final morning in Cusco (Day 8). The Inca Trail permit is strictly personal — your exact full name, passport number, nationality, and date of birth as printed on your passport are required at booking and must match exactly at all checkpoints. Two full days of acclimatization in Cusco (Days 2 and 3) are built into this itinerary before the trek begins on Day 4 — this is essential given the altitude of the Inca Trail and Dead Woman’s Pass. Tips for guides, cooks, and porters are optional but warmly appreciated — a guideline of $40–$100 USD per person for the entire Inca Trail support team is customary.

Original Passport You must carry your physical passport; photocopies or digital images are not accepted for the flight to Cusco or by the authorities at the Inca Trail entrance. It must be the same passport you used to book the trip as details are checked against the permit.
Well-Worn Hiking Boots Sturdy waterproof hiking boots that provide good ankle support are non-negotiable. It’s critical that you have broken them in over several weeks of walking before your trip to avoid painful blisters and ensure your comfort on the rocky uneven trail.
Daypack (25-35 Liters) You will need a comfortable daypack to carry your personal items during each day’s walk. This should hold your water supply rain gear sun protection snacks your camera and a warm layer as weather in the Andes can change very quickly.
Layered Clothing System The temperature can swing from cold nights and mornings to warm sunny afternoons. You must pack clothing in layers: a moisture-wicking base layer (thermals) a warm mid-layer (like a fleece jacket) and a waterproof and windproof outer shell jacket and pants.
Headlamp or Small Flashlight This is an absolutely essential piece of gear. You will need it for navigating the campsite after dark finding items inside your tent at night and for the very early morning start on the final day when you hike to the Sun Gate before sunrise.
Personal First-Aid Kit and Medication While your guide carries a group first-aid kit you should bring your own small kit with personal essentials. This should include blister treatment like Moleskin pain relievers insect repellent and any personal prescription medications you need for the trip’s duration.
Cash (Peruvian Soles and USD) Bring a mix of currency. You will need Peruvian Soles for small purchases tips and meals in smaller towns. US dollars are useful for larger payments or in case of an emergency. ATMs are available in Lima and Cusco but may not be elsewhere.

This 8-day tour requires careful preparation especially because it involves a significant change in altitude and a demanding multi-day trek. Your enjoyment of the trip is directly related to how well you prepare beforehand.

Booking and Permits You must book this tour many months ahead of your travel dates. The Peruvian government issues a very limited number of Inca Trail permits and they sell out fast especially for the peak season from May to September. You may need to book 6 to 9 months in advance. Make sure your passport details are correct at the time of booking as they cannot be changed later and must match your permit.

Physical and Health Preparation Do not underestimate the physical nature of the trek. You should begin a fitness routine at least three months before your trip. Focus on cardiovascular exercises like hiking jogging or cycling to build your endurance. Also talk to your doctor about traveling to high altitude. They can offer advice on managing the risks and may recommend a prescription for altitude sickness medication.

Acclimatization Strategy This itinerary is designed to help you acclimatize but you must take it seriously. The flight from sea-level Lima to high-altitude Cusco is a shock to the body. On your first day in Cusco you must rest. Walk slowly drink plenty of water and coca tea eat light meals and avoid alcohol. This allows your body to start adjusting to the lower oxygen levels and greatly reduces the risk of altitude sickness on the trail.

Packing and Luggage Logistics Pack smartly in two separate bags. Your main suitcase will be used for Lima and for your time in Cusco after the trek; this can be left in secure storage at the hotel in Cusco. For the trek itself you will use a smaller duffel bag for your essentials which will be carried by the porters. This bag has a strict weight limit usually around 7 kilograms. Your daypack is for items you need during the day’s hike.

Cultural and Environmental Respect Always be respectful of the local culture and the natural environment. Ask for permission before taking photos of local people particularly in the Sacred Valley. Follow the instructions of your guide and stay on the designated trail to protect the fragile ecosystem. Practice Leave No Trace principles by packing out everything you pack in and properly disposing of any trash.

A Traveler’s Guide to the Inca Trail and Machu Picchu Tour

Pre-Trip Preparations

What to Pack for the Tour Your packing should be functional and layered. For city days in Lima and Cusco lightweight pants shirts and a jacket are fine. For the trek you need technical hiking gear: moisture-wicking shirts fleece jackets waterproof outer layers hiking pants and wool socks. Don’t forget sun protection and a reusable water bottle.

Physical Fitness and Training This is a difficult trek. Your training should focus on stamina and leg strength. Try to hike on hills or stairs to simulate the trail’s inclines. Being in good physical condition will not prevent altitude sickness but it will make the physical exertion of the trek much more manageable and enjoyable.

Health and Safety

Navigating the Altitude Change The biggest health concern is the rapid ascent from Lima to Cusco. The first 24 hours in Cusco are critical. You must take it easy. Do not plan strenuous activities. Drink lots of water. Mate de coca (coca leaf tea) is a local remedy that can help. Listen to your body and report any symptoms of altitude sickness to your guide.

General Health and Safety In cities like Lima and Cusco be aware of your surroundings to avoid petty theft. Keep valuables out of sight. Regarding food only eat from reputable restaurants to avoid stomach issues. Drink only bottled or purified water. Having a comprehensive travel insurance policy is not optional it’s a necessity.

On Location in Peru

Climate and Best Time to Travel Peru has many microclimates. Lima is often overcast and humid. The Andes have a dry season (April-Oct) and a wet season (Nov-Mar). The dry season is best for trekking with clear skies but cold nights. The trail is closed every February.

Local Culture and People Peruvians are generally friendly people. In the Andes many are of Quechua descent and maintain strong traditions. It is important to be a respectful visitor. A few words of Spanish will be very helpful. When shopping in markets it is acceptable to bargain politely.

Food and Drink to Try Peruvian cuisine is world-famous. In Lima try ceviche (raw fish cured in citrus juices). In Cusco try Andean specialties like lomo saltado (stir-fried beef) or trucha frita (fried trout). For drinks try a Pisco Sour or the purple corn drink chicha morada.

Accommodation Details The tour uses a mix of standard hotels and basic camping. The hotels in Lima and Cusco are comfortable and centrally located. The camping on the Inca Trail is a more rustic experience with two-person tents and basic shared toilet facilities set up by the trekking crew.

How difficult is the Inca Trail trek portion of the tour?

The trek is rated as challenging. It requires four days of hiking over steep uneven terrain at high altitude. The second day which includes crossing Dead Woman’s Pass is particularly difficult. You must be in very good physical condition to complete it.

What happens if Inca Trail permits are sold out for my dates?

If permits are unavailable when you book the tour operator will typically offer an alternative trek like the Lares Trek or Quarry Trek. These treks also offer great Andean scenery and culture and are followed by a visit to Machu Picchu via bus and train.

What is the flight from Lima to Cusco like?

The flight is a standard domestic flight that takes about 90 minutes. It’s a common and safe route. The most notable part is the view of the Andes mountains as you approach Cusco. Be prepared for the immediate change in altitude upon landing.

How should I handle the sudden change in altitude after the flight?

You must take it very easy for the first 24 hours in Cusco. Do not do any strenuous walking. Drink a lot of water and coca tea. Avoid heavy meals and alcohol. This passive approach is the best way to allow your body to begin acclimatizing.

Are there toilets and showers on the trail?

There are basic squat toilets at the main campsites along the trail. Their cleanliness can vary. There are absolutely no shower facilities available during the four-day trek. The crew will provide bowls of warm water each morning for basic washing.

What is the maximum group size for this tour?

The group size is typically small with a maximum of 16 travelers plus the guide and crew. This allows for a more personalized experience and is also a requirement set by the regulations that govern the Inca Trail.

Is there a minimum age for this trip?

Yes the minimum age for this tour is set at 15 years old. This is due to the strenuous physical demands and the risks associated with high-altitude trekking which are not suitable for younger children. All minors must be with an adult.

Can I rent trekking equipment in Cusco?

Yes Cusco is full of rental shops where you can get high-quality equipment. You can easily rent sleeping bags rated for cold temperatures trekking poles and even waterproof jackets and pants. This is a convenient option if you don’t want to buy or travel with this gear.

How much money should I budget for tips for the crew?

Tipping is a customary way to thank your trekking crew. A general guideline is to budget around $50-$70 USD per trekker. The guide usually collects all the tips on the last night of the trek and distributes it among the porters and cook.

What is the food like during the trek?

The food is surprisingly varied and plentiful. A dedicated cook prepares all meals. You can expect high-energy foods like pasta rice potatoes soups and porridge along with vegetable and meat dishes. They can usually cater to dietary restrictions if you give advance notice.

How much of my own gear do I have to carry on the trail?

You only need to carry a small daypack each day. This should contain your water rain jacket camera sunscreen and any snacks you want. The porters will carry a larger duffel bag for you with your sleeping bag and other clothes which has a strict weight limit.

What happens if I get sick or injured on the trail?

Guides are trained in first aid and carry oxygen for emergencies. If you are unable to continue a porter will escort you to the nearest trail exit from where you will be transported to a medical clinic. This is why having comprehensive travel insurance is mandatory.

Can I use my cell phone or get Wi-Fi on the trail?

No you should expect to have zero cell phone signal or Wi-Fi access for the entire four-day trek. The trail is in a remote protected area. You will be completely disconnected from the outside world until you return to civilization.

What are the key differences between Lima and Cusco?

Lima is a massive modern metropolis at sea level with a humid coastal climate and a focus on colonial history and modern cuisine. Cusco is a smaller historic city high in the Andes with a dry climate a focus on Inca history and a much slower pace of life.

Do I need a visa to travel to Peru?

Citizens of many countries including the USA Canada the UK Australia and most of the EU do not need a visa for tourist stays of up to 90 days. However you must have a passport that is valid for at least six months from your date of entry.

Gallery

More Photos

Get in touch

Inquire now

Ready to experience Machu Picchu? Let our expert team take care of every detail, from tickets and trains to transportation and guiding, so you can just focus on enjoying one of the world's most impressive destinations. With years of experience, personalized assistance, and hundreds of happy travelers each year, we make your visit simple, safe, and unforgettable. Book your Machu Picchu tour today and secure your spot in Peru's most iconic wonder before availability runs out.