Arrive at Lima’s international airport in the afternoon or evening, where you will be greeted by our staff and transferred to your hotel. Spend the evening at leisure, exploring Lima, or resting after your flight. Overnight in Lima.
The Inca’s Trail
This 7-day tour of Peru offers an immersive experience of the country’s rich history, breathtaking scenery, and vibrant culture. Beginning in Lima, the journey takes you to the ancient Inca capital of Cuzco, the Sacred Valley, and the legendary Machu Picchu. Finish your adventure by exploring the tranquil beauty of Lake Titicaca and its fascinating floating islands. Along the way, you’ll visit archaeological sites, and bustling local markets and interact with local cultures, all while enjoying expert-guided tours and smooth transfers.
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Highlights
- Machu Picchu: Explore one of the world’s most iconic archaeological sites with a private guide.
- Lake Titicaca: Visit the unique Uros floating islands and the traditional Taquile Island on a full-day excursion.
- Sacred Valley: Discover the Inca ruins of Ollantaytambo, the Pisaq market, and Andean culture in the heart of the Sacred Valley.
Includes
- All transfers on arrival and departure of each locality, assisted by expert personnel.
- All the excursions indicated in the program with English-speaking guides.
- All entrance fees to the sites mentioned.
- Expedition train to/from Machu Picchu.
- Transportation in comfortable tourist vehicles.
- Overnights in suggested hotels or similar(subject to confirmation), breakfast included.
- Meals as indicated.
Not Included
- Early check-in / late check-out.
- Internal flights (approx. USD 160-220 per person, per flight).
- Drinks during meals.
- Meals not expressly stated.
- Extras at the bar, in laundry, in phone, etc.
- Tips for guides, hotels,restaurants and airports.
- Personal insurance.
Itinerary
Day 1 : Arrival In Lima
Day 2 : Lima To Cusco - Historic Walking Tour
After breakfast, transfer to the airport for your flight to Cusco. Upon arrival, meet our staff and head to your hotel. In the afternoon, enjoy a guided walking tour of Cusco’s historic center, including visits to the Cathedral and Qorikancha (Santo Domingo). Later, explore the nearby ruins of Sacsayhuaman, Qenqo, Puca Pucara, and Tambomachay. Overnight in Cusco.
Day 3 : Sacred Valley & Journey To Aguas Calientes
Start your day with breakfast before heading to the Sacred Valley. Visit Awanacancha to learn about traditional Andean textiles and meet alpacas and llamas. Explore the vibrant Pisaq market and the impressive ruins of Ollantaytambo. Enjoy a local lunch before boarding the Expedition train to Aguas Calientes. After a scenic 1.5-hour train ride, arrive at your hotel in Aguas Calientes. Overnight in Aguas Calientes.
Day 4 : Machu Picchu Exploration And Return To Cusco
After breakfast, take the public bus to Machu Picchu for a guided tour of the iconic Incan citadel. Spend two hours exploring the ancient city with your private guide. In the afternoon, return to Aguas Calientes and board the Expedition train to Poroy. Upon arrival, transfer back to Cusco for the night. Overnight in Cusco.
Day 5 : Scenic Bus Journey To Puno
After breakfast, depart for Puno on a scenic tourist bus. Along the way, visit the Andahuaylillas Chapel, known as the “Sistine Chapel of the Andes,” the Raqchi ruins, and the Pukara Museum. Enjoy a buffet lunch in Sicuani before continuing to Puno. Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel. Overnight in Puno.
Day 6 : Full-day Excursion To Lake Titicaca
After breakfast, embark on a full-day exploration of Lake Titicaca, the highest navigable lake in the world. Visit the Uros floating islands, home to indigenous communities living on islands made of reeds. Continue to Taquile Island, where you will enjoy a traditional lunch and learn about local customs. Return to Puno in the late afternoon. Overnight in Puno.
Day 7 : Puno To Juliaca Via Sillustani - Return To Lima
After breakfast, transfer to Juliaca’s airport for your flight to Lima. En route, visit the ancient Sillustani burial towers, a fascinating pre-Incan necropolis. After your visit, continue to the airport for your flight back to Lima, marking the end of your Peruvian adventure.
Travel Tips
- Carry a small backpack for Machu Picchu as larger luggage is not allowed on the train.
- Acclimatize to the altitude by staying hydrated, avoiding strenuous activities on the first day, and drinking coca tea, which is readily available.
- Pack layers for Cusco and Puno, as temperatures can vary throughout the day.
Weather Preparedness
Lima: Mild and coastal with temperatures ranging from 60°F to 75°F (15°C to 24°C).
Cusco & Sacred Valley: Cool mornings and evenings with daytime temperatures around 40°F to 68°F (4°C to 20°C). Bring warm clothing.
Puno & Lake Titicaca: Higher altitude with chilly mornings and evenings, so warm layers are essential.
Fitness Requirements
Moderate fitness is required for walking tours, especially at Machu Picchu and the archaeological sites in Cusco and the Sacred Valley.
Altitude in Cusco and Puno can make activities more demanding. Take it slow and rest when necessary.
Accommodation
- Lima 4 stars: José Antonio
- Cusco 4 stars: José Antonio
- Aguas Calinetes 4 stars: El Mapi 3 stars or superior
- Puno 4 stars: José Antonio
FAQs
It’s important to acclimatize by drinking plenty of water, taking it easy on your first day, and avoiding heavy meals. Coca tea, available in most hotels, is also helpful.
No, large luggage is not permitted on the train to Aguas Calientes. You can bring a small backpack (up to 5kg/11lbs) and leave your larger luggage at your Cusco hotel.
The dry season (May to September) offers clear skies and ideal conditions for visiting both Machu Picchu and Lake Titicaca. However, these destinations can be visited year-round.