8 Day Inca Trail Hiking Adventure
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4.70 (205 reviews)
8 Days
14 People Max
Level: Moderate
Trip Start: Cuzco
Trip End: Cuzco
Trip Overview
- Level – Moderate
- Duration – 8 days
- Region – Peru
- Arrive – Cuzco (via Lima)
- Depart – Cuzco
- Price – US$3,499
- Season – March-October
Trip Introduction
Prepare for an extraordinary 8-day journey through the majestic Peruvian Andes and the historic Cuzco region, where mystery, culture, and stunning beauty converge to create an unforgettable experience. Our Inca Trail expedition offers a blend of adventure, discovery, and comfort as you delve into the heart of the Inca Empire.
Embark on a fully guided hiking trip that will awaken all your senses as you explore the ancient wonders of Cuzco, unravel the secrets of the Sacred Valley of the Incas, and follow in the footsteps of the ancient Incas to the awe-inspiring Machu Picchu.
Dine and rest in comfort as our experienced team takes care of every detail, ensuring a seamless and enriching journey through this legendary land. Join us on this remarkable adventure, where every moment is a testament to the enduring legacy of the Inca civilization and the breathtaking beauty of the Peruvian Andes.
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Dive into the heart of the Inca civilization with our meticulously crafted 8-day itinerary.
From the ancient streets of Cuzco to the awe-inspiring heights of Machu Picchu, each day unfolds a new chapter in this Andean odyssey. Traverse the Sacred Valley, conquer the challenging Inca Trail, and stand in awe before the grandeur of Machu Picchu.
This is not merely a trek; it’s a cultural immersion and a journey through history. Join us as we retrace the steps of the ancient Inca Empire, creating memories etched in the stone of these legendary landscapes.
Arrive Cuzco
Our trip starts in Cuzco. We’ll meet you at the airport and head to our accommodation. After lunch, we’ll set off for a walk around this amazing ancient city.
Cuzco was the political and religious capital of the vast Inca empire of the Incas in South America. Over five hundred years after the city was taken over by the Spanish conquistadors, Cuzco’s Incan architecture is still gloriously intact. After lunch, we’ll set off for a walk around the city, and up to Sacsayhuamán fortress overlooking the main Plaza and Cuzco Valley. As part of our walk, we’ll explore the colorful Cuzco street markets.
If you prefer, you can take some time to sit back and relax in Cuzco’s lively town square and meet up again later for an evening meal.
Hotel Rumi Punku
Lunch, Dinner
Explore Sacred Valley
This morning we’ll head out of the Cuzco Valley and head into the Sacred Valley of The Incas. Our first stop is the ruins of Pisac where we’ll explore the amazing works of stone art and impressive agricultural terraces.
Later, we’ll head to the market of Pisaq, which is a bustling handicraft market. This market is the real deal and easy to get lost in. Find a few treasures and step back in time!
Later we’ll meet for lunch among the hustle and bustle. After lunch, we’ll drive along the Urubamba River towards the town of Ollantaytambo to visit the ruins – an important area of Incan construction, built during the peak of the Inca Empire. This is an extraordinary Inca site because you can find rock formations representing the Inca god, Wiracocha.
Hotel Rumi Punku
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Hike the Inca Trail
After an early start we’ll head through the Sacred Valley of the Incas and make a stop at the starting point of the trek, known as Pisacucho, or Kilometre 82. We’ll hike alongside the Cusicacha River and arrive at our first Inca site – Patallacta, an ancient Inca checkpoint. We’ll hike on for another couple of hours before stopping for lunch, surrounded by huge Andean Peaks.
After lunch, we’ll continue on, passing through local villages en route to our camp for the evening – Ayapata. When you arrive, our porters will greet you with a hot drink and a snack, so you can kick back, relax, and take in the surroundings with your fellow Conqueror Adventurers before this evening's meal.
Camping
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Distance: 8.7 miles/14 km / 6-7 hours
Campsite Altitude: 3300 meters (high) above sea level
Hike the Inca Trail
We’ll meet you at your tent this morning with a cup of hot coca tea or coffee, before a hearty, healthy breakfast. Our first major destination for the day is Warmiwañusqa (Dead Womans Pass) at 4215 metres. The hike up to the pass is challenging, as the trail winds its way up a stunning mountain valley. There’s plenty to take in! Upon reaching the Pass, we’ll take some time to take in the views and enjoy a well-deserved rest before heading down the other side of the Pass and into the Pacaymayu Valley for lunch.
After lunch, it’s time to ascend the second pass to the Inca site of Runcu Raccay. The fascinating ruins, surrounding peaks, waterfalls, and valleys below are an assault to the senses. A short descent further down the valley, brings us to our stop for the night, Cahquicocha.
Camping
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
10 miles/16 km / 6-7 hours
Campsite Altitude: 3,600 meters
Hike the Inca Trail
With mind blowing scenery every day of this trek being the norm, today takes it a step further – from mountain passes to cloud forest and awe-inspiring Inca ruins. Starting off, we’ll get views of Salkantay (the second highest peak of the Sacred Valley), and panoramic views of the Vilcabamba mountain range. We’ll then descend into cloud forest and feel the air become denser and warmer.
A long descent down an Inca stairway brings us to our final Inca Trail camp and the site of the most spectacular Inca Ruin site – Wiñay Wayna. We’ll arrive in time for lunch and take some time to explore the immense terraced Inca site with our guides.
We’ll have plenty of time to relax, take in the surroundings, and soak up the warmer air this afternoon. The start tomorrow is an early one!
Camping
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
6.2 miles/10 km / 5 hours
Campsite Altitude: 2600 metres
Hike the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu!
It’s a super early start this morning, but it’s the day we explore Machu Picchu, so we’ll have no trouble getting up and downing an early breakfast before heading out to hike to Inti Punku, or the “Sun Gate”. This is where we’ll have our first look at the site we’ve seen in so many photos and videos. They have nothing on the real thing though, so we’ll take time to soak it in, before hiking down to the ruins and exploring its many pathways and structures with our guide.
Later, we’ll board a train from Machu Picchu Village down in the valley below the site, and head back through the Andes en route to Cuzco – a good opportunity to rest up after an incredible few days in the mountains.
Hotel Rumi Punku
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Distance: 4.5 miles/7.3 km / 1.5 hours
Free Day in Cuzco
Today is yours to rest up (or not) and explore Cuzco, the capital of the Inca Empire. There’s no better place in the world to spend a day soaking in sights, sounds and aromas. Bustling markets, tight alleyways bordered by original Inca stonework, incredible cafes and restaurants – you name it, it’s here.
If you prefer to stay active today, there are a number of optional activities on offer – from whitewater rafting to mountain biking and more hiking. Just ask us and we’ll arrange it for you!
There is also an option to take a day visit to Rainbow Mountain – check out the description of this area below.
Hotel Rumi Punku
Breakfast
Day 7 Rainbow Mountain Option
If you’re after more hiking today, there is an option to hike the world-famous “Rainbow Mountain”, also known as Vinicunca, which translates to “colored mountain”. This mountain is famed for its natural, multi-colored beauty at a staggering 5,200m above sea level. The rainbow-like appearance is created by the sediment of minerals throughout the area giving the mountain turquoise, lavender, gold, and other colors.
This has become one of the most iconic sites in all of South America and the 2-hour hike in, is stunning too! Get in touch with us for more information.
Hotel Rumi Punku
Breakfast, Lunch
Depart
Today is the last day of your Conqueror Adventures hike to Machu Picchu and exploration into the Peruvian Andes. Our aim is to create incredible moments that count with like minded people, and build lifelong friendships through physical activity and shared experiences in some of the worlds most beautiful places.
We’ll drop you at the airport in time for your flight to Lima and onward flight home.
Breakfast
The Details
What's Included
- All meals as per itinerary
- All transport and shuttles
- Guiding and hosting
- All park entrance fees, including the Inca Trail permit
- Machu Picchu Entrance fee
- All accommodation
- All drinking water while hiking the Inca Trail
- Inflatable sleeping mattress for the Inca Trail
- Luggage portage on the Inca Trail
What's Not Included
- International and domestic flights
- Travel Insurance
- Personal hiking gear
- Sleeping bags are available to rent
- Luggage
- Personal snacks
- Alcoholic beverages
Accommodation
We understand the importance of a good night's rest in a comfortable place. This is why we have carefully chosen lodgings that understand the importance of a place to unwind, sleep well, and have the creature comforts of home.
A NOTE ON INCA TRAIL CAMPING: We roll out the red carpet on the Inca trail. You’ll sleep in a roomy comfortable tent, with a soft air mattress, have all your meals (we have a dining tent) and hot drinks/drinking water provided, and your main luggage is carried by our porters.
Flights
Arriving in Cuzco is relatively simple. The international gateway is Lima (Peru’s capital), and there are numerous domestic flights to Cuzco throughout the day. Our trip starts in Cuzco where you will be met at Cuzco airport by a Conqueror Adventures representative.
Frequently Asked Questions
DO I NEED A VISA TO TRAVEL TO PERU?
Visas are currently not required for Australian, New Zealand, US, Canadian or UK/EU passport holders wishing to visit Peru. If you are outside these regions, please check with your embassy. You can also check the Visa HQ website for up todate information.
WHAT ABOUT DRINKING WATER?
Water from the tap is not safe to drink in Peru. Our hotel(s) provide a couple of bottles of water each day, and bottled water is available to purchase at an inexpensive price.
On the Inca Trail, we provide safe drinking water by boiling and purifying our water and we will provide you with enough drinking water throughout the day and for the evenings.
WHAT WILL THE WEATHER/TEMPERATURE BE LIKE?
In March/April and May, you can expect high temperatures to be from 19 degrees celcius through to 22 degrees celcius. In September and October you can expect them to range from 20 to 23.
In March/April you can expect 7 days of rain per month and in May, around 1 day per month. In September and October you can expect around 3 and 7 respectively.
Please note – we avoid running trips from late June to July as this an extremely busy time and we prefer to avoid the crowds! Also – March, April, May and June is spring time with greenery everywhere and September/October is very calm with little wind.
IS LAUNDRY AVAILABLE?
Yes. Laundry is available in Cusco. There isn’t a chance to do laundry on the Inca trail itself.
WHAT IS THE MAXIMUM GROUP SIZE?
Our maximum group size for this trip is 14 people.
WHAT ABOUT ALTITUDE?
Cusco is situated at 3399 metres above sea level, and the highest point of the Inca Trail is at 4215 metres. That’s pretty high! But as long as you are in reasonable shape and take it easy, then we have found that people do just fine. We make sure we ease into things the first couple of days so that by the time you’ll start the trail, you are prepared!
HOW STRENUOUS IS THIS TRIP?
This is a moderate hiking trip which is suitable for those who have some experience with hiking and a good general physical condition. The Inca trail is a well maintained trail which isn’t technical but there are some big ascents and descents! Average walking times: approx. 6 hours each day.
IMPORTANT! There are some long inclines so if you are at all unsteady on your feet we highly recommend you also bring a retractable walking pole(s). Comfortable walking/hiking shoes are essential, along with a small day-pack and water bottle.
IS WIFI AVAILABLE?
Wifi is available and free of charge at all our accommodations. While on the Inca Trail, there is no access to wifi until you arrive in Machu Picchu.
WILL I HAVE TO CARRY ALL MY BELONGINGS ON THE INCA TRAIL?
No. We have a team of porters who will carry the things you need for the duration of the Inca Trail. When you arrive into a campsite, you’ll find your belongings in one of our duffel bags in your tent! All your other belongings are kept safe and secure in our hotel in Cusco.
WHAT IS THE ROOMING AND CAMPSITE SITUATION?
The rooming on the trip is based on twin and double share. This also applies to tent sharing on the Inca Trail. If you would like a single room or tent to yourself, there is a single supplement of US$600
IS THERE A SINGLE SUPPLEMENT FEE IF I'M COMING ON MY OWN?
No! Many other travel companies put this on single travelers, but we think this is unfair. If you specifically request your own room and tent, then there is a single supplemnent. Otherwise we’ll allocate you with a fellow traveller of the same gender to share a room.
WHERE DO I FLY TO?
When you book your flights, you should fly into Lima and then on to Cusco, and then depart from Cusco to Lima and onwards to your home desintation. If you need assitance with flights, let us know!
The Conqueror Adventures put together a trip of a lifetime. Every detail was well planned, from the airport pickup to the accommodations to the food we ate every day. It was such a memorable experience because of the knowledge of the trip leader and local guide. These two radiated such a positive energy that it helped elevate the confidence of us hikers. Everyone was able to complete the hike together with a sense of awe and accomplishment, and a newfound travel family that we created memories with. I would definitely recommend this trip!!
Aurelia Lambert
USA.
Inca Trail Adventure
September 2023
From the first moment of the trip there was never a dull moment. When it wasn’t fun, it was awe inspiring, or it was fascinating, or intriguing. Thanks Zac for an outstanding trip with all the good stuff thrown on top.
Graham Johnson
United Kingdom.
Inca Trail Adventure
September 2023
I had an incredible experience in Peru! I was so looked after the whole trip and Zac is THE ABSOLUTE BEST!
Pamela Olsen
USA.
Inca Trail Adventure
August 2023
Meet Our Guides
At The Conqueror Adventures, our journey is led by the passionate and experienced individuals who have an unwavering love for the great outdoors. These are the adventurers who guide you through rugged landscapes, lead you to hidden gems, and share their profound knowledge of the destinations we explore.
In this section, we invite you to meet our guides, the heartbeat of our hiking tours. These individuals are more than just experts; they are passionate storytellers, nature enthusiasts, and cultural interpreters. They bring the landscapes to life, adding a layer of depth to your adventure that can’t be found in guidebooks.
Their stories, insights, and profound love for the destinations they explore are integral to the exceptional experiences we provide. Get to know the adventurers who will be your companions on the trail, leading you through extraordinary journeys filled with discovery, camaraderie, and the joy of exploration.
Phil Boorman
Founder, Guide & CEO
Phil Boorman
Founder and boss, Phil is at his best when he’s leading a group. He has spent his entire working life, leading and designing adventures in almost every continent in the world. It’s just in his blood and he’ll never give it up. You’ll still find Phil leading trips in Italy, Nepal, and New Zealand which is his home. Phil loves whitewater kayaking, backcountry skiing and mountain biking in his free time.
“I’ve done a tonne of guided trips in my time, and traveling with Phil was by far, THE best and most fulfilling experience I’ve had – he was genuine, attentive and clearly loves what he does.”
Ed Stone, USA – June 2016
Zacarias Ugarte
Peru
Zacarias Ugarte
Born and raised in Cusco, Zac has lived, breathed, and guided adventures in the Peruvian Andes his entire working life.
Zac comes from a family of Peruvian adventure pioneers. His father was one of Peru’s first kayak guides, and Zac has continued the family tradition. He lives with his wife and 5 children in Cusco.
“Zac was such a great Trip Leader – I am so glad we had him! He was very personable and always ensured everyone in the group was safe and doing well. It was really great to get to know Zac over the course of the trip. I really appreciated how knowledgeable Zac was of the history of Peru, our surroundings and the Incas.”
Alain V Canada, October 2022
Why Travel With The Conqueror Adventures
When it comes to embarking on extraordinary journeys, you have a choice. So why choose The Conqueror Adventures? Our unwavering commitment to redefining adventure travel sets us apart. We don’t just offer hiking tours; we offer experiences that challenge limits, ignite curiosity, and foster meaningful connections.
Our meticulously crafted adventures are designed to leave a profound and lasting impact, pushing you to step boldly into the uncharted. Discover why adventurers around the world choose to explore with us, and join our global community of explorers, wanderers, and adventure enthusiasts. Your extraordinary journey starts here.
Logistics
Transport, permits, transfers, awesome places to stay, and everything in between. We’ve covered all the details, so you can simply enjoy.
ALL-INCLUSIVE
Meals, experienced guides, cool locally owned accommodation, transport… Once you arrive, there’s no need to dip into your pocket.
Hosts with the Most
Our guiding teams are THE best around. Every Conqueror trip is lead by an experienced guide and leader combo.
The Conqueror Spirit
Step boldly, share your goals and make every mile and moment count. Our trips and destinations are awesome, but it’s our like-minded community who make it unforgettable.
Rest Easy
Locally owned, stylish and comfortable. We’ve carefully chosen accommodations that ensure you get a comfortable nights sleep, great meals and creature comforts.
Pre Trip Care
Getting on the plane isn’t the beginning of your journey with us. From the moment you book, we’ll make sure you’re well prepared for your trip of a lifetime and ready to step boldly.