Peru Inca Trail Express 7 Days

Daily program

Itinerary

DAY 1

Cusco

Your trip starts in the city of Cusco (Approx. 3,400m / 11,152ft). After arriving, you will get familiar with the city’s distinct atmosphere. A guided walking tour will take you through its streets, letting you see the combination of original Inca stonework and later Spanish colonial buildings.

You will notice how many colonial structures were built directly on top of the strong Inca foundations. While here, you will have the chance to try local teas like mate de coca or muña, which are traditionally used by locals to help with the effects of high altitude.

DAY 2

Sacred Valley / Ollantaytambo

Today you will journey into the green Sacred Valley, which was a vital agricultural center for the Incas. While moving through the valley, you will see the large terraces built into the mountainsides, a clear sign of advanced Inca farming methods.

The tour makes a stop at a local community. Here, you can observe parts of a traditional lifestyle that has been maintained for generations and even attempt to speak some basic phrases in the local Quechua language. Your day will finish in Ollantaytambo (Approx. 2,792m / 9,160ft), where you will stay the night. You’ll have time to see the town’s large ruins, which operated as both a fortress and a place for ceremonies.

Days 3-6

Inca Trail / Machu Picchu / Cusco

The central part of your trip starts as you begin the trek on the Inca Trail. This old path was once a critical piece of the empire’s transport and communication system. You will be walking for four days through environments that change with the altitude.

The trail takes you through thick cloud forests, by smaller archeological sites, and over the difficult mountain peak of Warmiwañusca, or ‘Dead Woman’s Pass’. This is the highest point of the trek and a major physical test. The support from porters and your guide makes the journey possible.

On the last morning, you’ll have an early start to walk up the final steps to Intipunku, the ‘Sun Gate’. From here you will get the first sight of Machu Picchu as the morning fog lifts. After seeing the view, you will go down into the site for a full guided tour to learn the history of its temples, plazas, and houses. Later, you will go back to Cusco by train and minibus.

DAY 7

Cusco

This is the last day of the tour. All scheduled activities finish after breakfast. If you have extra time and want more activity, you could consider optional things like whitewater rafting on the Urubamba River or mountain biking on nearby trails.

For those with tired muscles and a big appetite, there are many local restaurants where you can enjoy a final Peruvian meal. This day is free for you to rest or see more of the city on your own before you leave.

What's included

Inclusions & Exclusions

Meals: 6 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 3 dinners This package covers your morning meals at the hotels and all meals during the four-day Inca Trail portion of the trip. The food on the trek is prepared by a dedicated cook, focusing on high-energy, nutritious dishes to support your physical effort.
Accommodation: Hotel (3 nts), Camping (3 nts) You will have three nights in a standard tourist-class hotel in Cusco and Ollantaytambo, offering comfortable beds and private bathrooms. For the other three nights on the trail, you will be camping in two-person tents set up by the crew.
Transport: Private minibus, Train All of the ground transportation for the scheduled itinerary is part of the package. This includes transfers in a private minibus to the Sacred Valley and the trailhead, as well as the comfortable train ride from Aguas Calientes back towards Cusco.
Included Activities: 4-day trek and Machu Picchu guided tour, Coca Museum The main feature is the fully supported four-day Inca Trail trek with a licensed guide, porters, and a cook. It also covers your official entrance ticket to the Machu Picchu historical site and a detailed guided tour to explain its history and purpose.
Carbon Emissions Offset: 407kg pp per trip A portion of your trip’s cost is used to offset the carbon footprint of your travel. This is done by investing in certified environmental projects, helping to balance the impact of your journey on the planet.

International or Domestic Flights The cost of your flights to and from Cusco, Peru is not part of the tour price. You are responsible for booking and paying for your own international and any domestic airfare needed to reach the starting point of the tour.
Travel Insurance This is mandatory and must be purchased separately. Your policy must cover medical emergencies, trip cancellation, and high-altitude trekking up to 4,500 meters. Proof of insurance is often required before you can begin the trek.
Meals Not Specified in the Itinerary Any lunches, dinners, or snacks that are not explicitly listed in the day-by-day itinerary are your own expense. This typically applies to your free time in cities like Cusco, giving you a chance to try local restaurants.
Tips for Guide and Trekking Crew Gratuities for your guide, porters, and cook are not in the tour cost. Tipping is a standard practice in the local tourism industry to show your appreciation for their hard work and excellent service throughout the trek.
Personal Expenses and Equipment Money for souvenirs, alcoholic beverages, laundry services, and other personal items is your responsibility. Additionally, the rental of personal equipment like a sleeping bag or trekking poles is an extra cost you must plan for.

Choose your package

Prices

EXTRAS & UPGRADES

Sleeping Bag – $20 USD per person per trek (Rated down to -10°C / 14°F — essential for the 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 providing 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 4. 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. Request a private single-occupancy tent at the time of booking for full privacy across all 3 nights on the trail)
Extra Porter for Personal Belongings – $80 USD (Up to 7 kg / 15 lbs extra beyond the standard porter allowance)
Maras Salt Mines Visit – Day 2 – $5 USD per person (~20 soles — An optional stop at the stunning pre-Inca salt evaporation ponds on the way through the Sacred Valley. Cash only, paid to the Maras community)
Pisac Ruins & Market Visit – Day 2 – Covered by Tourist Ticket (Add a guided visit to one of the most impressive Inca sites in the Sacred Valley, with sweeping valley views and a vibrant artisan market)
Sacred Valley Partial Tourist Ticket (Circuit III) – $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)
Overnight Hotel in Ollantaytambo – Day 2 – from $40 USD per person (A comfortable stay in the charming Inca town of Ollantaytambo before the early morning transfer to the Inca Trail trailhead. Prices vary by hotel category)
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 — the Sun Temple, Temple of the Three Windows, and upper terraces. Strongly recommended for the most complete experience)
Huayna Picchu Mountain – $75 USD per person (The iconic steep climb within Machu Picchu offering breathtaking aerial views of the ruins. Strictly 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 panoramic views of the full Citadel and surrounding cloud forest. Requires scheduling a second Machu Picchu visit day. Please request at booking)
Huchuy Picchu Mountain – $30 USD per person (The newest and most accessible optional mountain within the Citadel. Achievable within the same guided visit on Day 6)
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, with glass-ceiling windows and an onboard cultural show. Return journey only)
Vistadome Observatory Train Upgrade – $75 USD per person (The most premium train option, with an observatory-style carriage, live Andean music, and fully panoramic windows. Subject to availability — must be booked at the time of reservation)
Buffet Lunch Celebration at Sanctuary Lodge – Day 6 – $40 USD per person (A celebratory buffet with fresh drinks at the only hotel located inside the Machu Picchu Historical Sanctuary, right at the entrance to the ruins — a perfect reward after completing the Inca Trail)
Whitewater Rafting on the Urubamba River – Day 7 – $35 USD per person (An exhilarating Class III–IV rafting adventure on the Urubamba River, just outside Cusco. Full safety equipment provided. A popular optional activity for the final free day)
Mountain Biking – Day 7 – $40 USD per person (A guided downhill mountain bike excursion through the Andean landscape around Cusco. Bike, helmet, and guide included. Ideal for those with energy to spare on the last day)
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 – Cusco + Sacred Valley + Classic Inca Trail 7 Days

This 7-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 (including guides and porters), and are personal and non-transferable. Book at least 5–6 months in advance — high season dates (May–September) sell out within days of the October permit release. The trail is closed during February for annual maintenance. A non-refundable deposit of $240 USD per person is required at booking to secure your government-issued permit, Machu Picchu ticket, and train ticket. A pre-departure briefing takes place at our office at 6:00 PM the evening before the Inca Trail departure.

GROUP SERVICE

$1,197 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

$1,497 USD per person – 2 to 3 persons
$1,397 USD per person – 4 to 6 persons
$1,297 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 7-day itinerary combines a Cusco city orientation and altitude acclimatization (Day 1), an immersive Sacred Valley cultural day with an overnight in Ollantaytambo (Day 2), the complete Classic Inca Trail experience including Dead Woman’s Pass and the Sun Gate arrival at Machu Picchu (Days 3–6), and a free final day in Cusco for rest or optional activities (Day 7). 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. A minimum of 2 days of acclimatization in Cusco before the trek is built into this package via Days 1 and 2. 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 over the 4 trekking days is customary.

Original Passport You must carry your physical passport; photocopies or digital images are not accepted by the authorities at the Inca Trail entrance or at Machu Picchu. Ensure it is the same passport you used to book the trip.
Well-Worn Hiking Boots Sturdy, waterproof hiking boots with good ankle support are critical. It is very important that you break them in for several weeks before your trip to avoid painful blisters and ensure comfort on the long and uneven stone paths.
Daypack (25-35 Liters) You will need a comfortable daypack to carry your personal items during each day’s walk. This includes your water, rain gear, sun protection, snacks, camera, and an extra warm layer, as the weather can change quickly.
Reusable Water Bottle or Hydration System Staying hydrated is essential for acclimatization and physical performance. Bring a system that can hold at least 2 liters of water. Reusable options are better for the environment than buying disposable plastic bottles along the way.
Layered Clothing System The temperature can vary greatly from cold nights to warm, sunny days. Pack clothing in layers: a base layer (thermals), a mid-layer (fleece or light down jacket), and a waterproof and windproof outer shell jacket and pants.
Headlamp or Small Flashlight This is absolutely essential for navigating the campsite in the dark, finding things inside your tent, and for the very early morning start on the day you hike to the Sun Gate before sunrise. Remember to bring extra batteries.
High-SPF Sunscreen and Sun Hat The sun at high altitudes is extremely strong and can cause severe sunburn quickly, even on cloudy days. Use a sunscreen with at least SPF 30 and wear a wide-brimmed hat to protect your face, neck, and ears.
Personal First-Aid Kit and Medication While the guide will have a first-aid kit, you should bring your own small kit with personal items like blister plasters, pain relievers, insect repellent, and any prescription medications you require for the duration of the trip.

This tour requires significant preparation. Success on the trail is often determined by the planning you do before you leave home. You should pay close attention to booking procedures, physical training, and your packing strategy.

Booking and Permits You must book this tour many months in advance. The Peruvian government releases a limited number of Inca Trail permits—only 500 per day, including for guides and porters—and they sell out quickly. For travel during the high season (May-September), you may need to book 6 to 9 months ahead of time. Ensure your passport information is accurate when booking, as changes are not permitted.

Physical Preparation Do not underestimate the physical demands of this trek. You will be walking for several hours each day on steep and uneven terrain at high altitude. It is highly recommended that you start a training program at least three months before your trip. Focus on cardiovascular exercises such as hiking, jogging, or cycling to build endurance. If possible, do some practice hikes on hilly terrain to prepare your muscles.

Acclimatization Strategy Proper acclimatization is the most important factor for a safe and enjoyable trek. Arriving in Cusco at least two or three full days before starting the hike is essential. During these days, you should take it easy: walk slowly, drink plenty of water and coca tea, eat light meals, and avoid alcohol. This allows your body to slowly get used to the lower oxygen levels and reduces the risk of serious altitude sickness.

Packing and Luggage Management Pack smart and light. For the trek, you will be given a duffel bag for your personal belongings, which the porters will carry. There is a strict weight limit, usually around 7 kilograms (15 pounds) per person. Your daypack is for items you need during the day. Before the trek, separate what you need for the hike from your main luggage, which can be securely stored at your hotel in Cusco.

On the Trail Listen to your guide. They are experienced professionals who know the trail and the effects of altitude. Walk at your own comfortable pace—this is not a race. Let faster walkers pass and don’t feel pressured to keep up. Use trekking poles, as they significantly reduce the strain on your knees, especially during the long downhill sections. Finally, respect the environment by following Leave No Trace principles.

Pre-Trip Preparations

What to Pack for the Tour Your packing should be split into two parts: your daypack and your duffel bag for the porters. Your daypack must contain essentials for the day’s hike: water, snacks, sun hat, sunscreen, rain gear, a warm fleece, camera, and your original passport. Your duffel bag will hold your sleeping bag, extra clothes for the evenings, toiletries, and other items you won’t need until you reach the campsite.

Physical Fitness and Training This is a challenging trek and you must be in good physical shape. Your training should focus on building stamina and leg strength. Activities like hiking on hills, running, using a stair-climber machine, or cycling are effective. The goal is to be comfortable with sustained physical activity for 4-6 hours at a time. The more prepared you are, the more you will enjoy the experience.

Health and Safety

Understanding and Managing Altitude Altitude sickness is a real risk. Symptoms can range from mild (headache, nausea) to severe. Acclimatization is the best prevention. Move slowly, stay hydrated, and consider talking to your doctor about medication like Acetazolamide (Diamox). If you feel unwell on the trail, inform your guide immediately. They are trained to handle altitude-related issues.

Essential Health Precautions Beyond altitude, it’s important to be careful with food and water. Drink only bottled or properly treated water. Be cautious with uncooked food or items from street vendors in the cities. It is mandatory to have travel insurance that covers medical evacuation from remote areas. Carry a personal first-aid kit with any specific medications you need.

On Location in Peru

Climate and Best Time to Travel The Andean region has two distinct seasons. The dry season runs from April to October and is generally considered the best time to trek, with more sunny days. However, nights are very cold. The wet season is from November to March, characterized by more frequent rain but milder temperatures. The Inca Trail is closed for all of February.

Local Culture and People The people of the high Andes are primarily of Quechua descent. They are known for their resilience, strong community bonds, and colorful textiles. It is important to be respectful when interacting with them. Always ask permission before taking photographs, especially of children. Learning a few words in Spanish or Quechua, like “gracias” (thank you), is appreciated.

Food and Drink to Try Peruvian food is diverse. In Cusco, try lomo saltado (stir-fried beef with onions, tomatoes, and french fries) or aji de gallina (shredded chicken in a creamy pepper sauce). The national drink is the Pisco Sour. On the trek, the food will be simpler but designed for energy, with lots of soups, pasta, rice, and potatoes.

Accommodation Details The tour uses a mix of accommodations. In cities like Cusco and Ollantaytambo, you will stay in standard tourist-class hotels that are clean and comfortable. On the Inca Trail, you will sleep in mountain tents for three nights. The camping is organized by the crew, but facilities are basic, with shared toilets and no showers.

Tour Suitability

Who Should Take This Tour This tour is recommended for people who are physically active and have a spirit of adventure. You should be comfortable with multi-day hiking and basic camping conditions. It is ideal for those with a strong interest in history, archaeology, and nature. It is not suitable for individuals with serious heart or lung conditions, mobility problems, or a fear of heights.

How difficult is the Inca Trail trek? The trek is rated as challenging. It involves four consecutive days of walking for several hours, with significant changes in elevation. The trail includes long, steep stone staircases. Good physical condition and proper acclimatization are necessary to complete it successfully.

Do I absolutely need a permit for the Inca Trail? Yes, a permit is mandatory. The Peruvian government strictly limits access to protect the site. Permits must be bought months in advance through a licensed tour company using your exact passport details. You cannot trek the classic trail without one.

What is the alternative if Inca Trail permits are sold out? If permits are gone, most operators will offer an alternative trek, such as the Salkantay Trek or the Lares Trek. These routes go through different but equally impressive Andean landscapes and also end with a visit to Machu Picchu, though they don’t arrive via the Sun Gate.

What is the food like on the trek? The food is typically very good and is prepared by a dedicated cook. Meals are designed to be high in energy, with lots of carbohydrates. Breakfast might be porridge or pancakes, lunch is often a multi-course meal, and dinner is usually soup followed by a main dish.

Are there toilets and showers on the trail? There are basic toilet blocks at the designated campsites. The condition of these toilets can be poor. There are no showers. Your trekking crew will provide a bowl of warm water each morning and evening for you to wash your hands and face.

What is the maximum group size? Tour groups on the Inca Trail are limited by regulation to a maximum of 16 travelers, not including the crew. This helps to reduce the human impact on the trail and allows for a better experience for each trekker.

Is there a minimum age for this trip? Yes, most companies set a minimum age, which is often 15 years old, due to the physical demands and risks of the trek. All travelers under the age of 18 must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian.

Why is the Inca Trail closed in February? The government closes the Inca Trail every February for annual maintenance and cleanup. This period allows conservation teams to repair the path and lets the surrounding ecosystem recover from a year of foot traffic, ensuring its long-term preservation.

Can I rent equipment like a sleeping bag and trekking poles? Yes, rental shops are common in Cusco. You can easily rent good quality sleeping bags rated for cold temperatures and adjustable trekking poles. Renting is a practical option if you do not own this equipment or prefer not to travel with it.

How much money should I budget for tips? Tipping is a personal choice but is a standard way to thank the trekking crew. A common guideline is to budget between $50 and $70 USD per trekker. The guide will typically collect this on the last night and distribute it fairly among the porters and cook.

What is the currency in Peru? The local currency is the Peruvian Sol (PEN). While US dollars are sometimes accepted in tourist-focused businesses in Cusco, it is best to carry local currency for smaller purchases, tipping, and in more rural areas. ATMs are widely available in Cusco.

What is ‘Dead Woman’s Pass’? ‘Dead Woman’s Pass’, or Warmiwañusca in Quechua, is the highest point of the classic Inca Trail, at an altitude of 4,215 meters (13,828 feet). It is a long, strenuous climb and represents the most challenging single day of the trek.

How much of my own gear do I have to carry? You are only responsible for carrying your own daypack. This should contain everything you need for the day’s hike. A team of porters will carry the larger duffel bags with your clothes and sleeping bag, along with all the camping and cooking equipment.

What happens if I get sick on the trail? The guides are trained in first aid and will carry an emergency oxygen tank. If your condition is serious or you cannot continue, the guide will arrange for an evacuation, which usually involves a porter escorting you to the nearest exit point for transport to a clinic.

Can I use my cell phone or get Wi-Fi on the trail? You should not expect any cell service or Wi-Fi for the entire four-day duration of the trek. The route is in a remote mountainous area. It is a time to be disconnected from the digital world and fully present in your surroundings.

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