Trip Highlights
In creating this expedition to the Inca Trail, I wanted to bring together everything that I love about travel. From the exploration of ancient cultures, to an adventure through wild landscapes. From magnificent ruins to breathtaking mountain passes. I wanted to take our group on a journey to a place you may have heard of, but never thought you could experience first-hand.
The Inca Trail ticks every single box. We’ll be exploring some of the most famous and historic Inca ruins in the world, including the incredible Machu Picchu.
Join us, as we trek the unexplored paths of the Inca Trail, and experience Peru’s ancient beauty and rich culture together.
Amazing Hiking
Once in a lifetime hiking experience on the Inca Trail.
Ancient Cultures
Exploring ancient cultures and magnificent ruins such as Machu Picchu.
Local Cuisine
Delicious culinary experiences in local restaurants.
Support Communities
Visit local communities and support traditional crafts.
Meet Like-Minded Women
Spend time with our beautiful and supportive community, creating lasting memories together.
Culture
Wander the historic streets of Cusco, visiting Plaza de Armas, the Twelve-Angle Stone, and Qoricancha, as well as the Pre-Columbian Art Museum
Make Pisco Sours!
Enjoy a hands-on experience at the Pisco Museum, crafting Peru’s national cocktail, the Pisco Sour, or a non-alcoholic version
Sacred Valley
Discover the wonders of the Sacred Valley with visits to Chinchero, Moray, and the Maras salt pans, and explore Ollantaytambo Fortress while witnessing traditional weaving and agricultural terraces
Inca Trail
Trek the Inca Trail through lush valleys, cloud forests, and ancient ruins, including Llactapata, Sayacmarca, Phuyupatamarca, and Wiñaywayna
Sun Gate & Citadel
Experience the magic of the Sun Gate sunrise at Machu Picchu and enjoy a guided tour of the citadel
Palccoyo – Rainbow Mountain
Hike to Palccoyo Rainbow Mountain to see vibrant mineral-striped peaks in a peaceful, less crowded setting
Memories to last a lifetime!
Marvel at breathtaking Andean landscapes, from high-altitude valleys to cloud forests
Celebrate achievements and create lasting memories with an amazing group of fellow travellers
Gallery
Day by Day Itinerary
Day 1 - Arrival Day
Day 2 - Explore Cusco
Today offers the opportunity to discover Cusco, immersing yourself in the history and character of this remarkable imperial city. Begin your exploration around the captivating Plaza de Armas and wander through the historic streets, where remarkable examples of both Inca and Spanish architecture can be found. A highlight of your exploration will be the celebrated Twelve-Angle Stone, an extraordinary example of Inca craftsmanship, where the stones interlock with astonishing precision, leaving visitors with many questions and a profound sense of wonder.
Continue your exploration with a visit to the Temple of the Sun, known as Qoricancha in Quechua. Here, you will discover the impressive foundations of the Santo Domingo Monastery, together with the adjacent colonial church. This enlightening visit lasts approximately one hour and offers valuable insight into the history and cultural richness of the region.
Lunch at leisure in Cusco.
Continue with a visit to the Pre-Columbian Art Museum in Cusco, which presents pieces from the region to the coastal plains, dating from 1250 BC to 1532, the date of the Spanish invasion. The elegant presentation and thoughtful lighting of the rooms, together with the detailed explanations and quotations on the walls from great thinkers and anthropologists, make this a particularly high-quality exhibition. It is probably the best museum in Cusco.
In the afternoon, meet at the Pisco Museum in Cusco, a charming bar where you will learn how to prepare a Pisco Sour, the national cocktail. You will have the opportunity to create your own version using the different ingredients proposed by the bar and, of course, savour your creation. Salud!
For those who do not drink alcohol, a non-alcoholic cocktail will be prepared.
Dinner at leisure in Cusco.
Continue your exploration with a visit to the Temple of the Sun, known as Qoricancha in Quechua. Here, you will discover the impressive foundations of the Santo Domingo Monastery, together with the adjacent colonial church. This enlightening visit lasts approximately one hour and offers valuable insight into the history and cultural richness of the region.
Lunch at leisure in Cusco.
Continue with a visit to the Pre-Columbian Art Museum in Cusco, which presents pieces from the region to the coastal plains, dating from 1250 BC to 1532, the date of the Spanish invasion. The elegant presentation and thoughtful lighting of the rooms, together with the detailed explanations and quotations on the walls from great thinkers and anthropologists, make this a particularly high-quality exhibition. It is probably the best museum in Cusco.
In the afternoon, meet at the Pisco Museum in Cusco, a charming bar where you will learn how to prepare a Pisco Sour, the national cocktail. You will have the opportunity to create your own version using the different ingredients proposed by the bar and, of course, savour your creation. Salud!
For those who do not drink alcohol, a non-alcoholic cocktail will be prepared.
Dinner at leisure in Cusco.
Day 3 - Exploring the Sacred Valley
Exploring the Sacred Valley
Today we explore the Sacred Valley, rich in Inca history. Our first stop is Chinchero, a village at 3,762 metres (12,343 ft) known for its colorful textiles and a colonial church built on Inca foundations. Watch local weavers at work using traditional techniques and natural dyes, creating unique, vibrant fabrics.
Next, we visit Moray, with its mysterious concentric terraces once used by the Incas for agricultural experiments, followed by the Maras salt works, where thousands of salt pools cascade down the mountainside, still harvested using traditional methods. After a buffet lunch at a charming hacienda, we head to the Ollantaytambo Fortress at 2,792 metres (9,160 ft), one of the few Inca victories against the Spanish, with massive terraces and stunning views. The day ends with dinner and an overnight stay in the peaceful Sacred Valley.
Day 4 - Rainbow coloured mountains of Palccoyo
Today, we head to Palccoyo, a less crowded but equally stunning alternative to Rainbow Mountain. The drive takes approximately 3–3.5 hours each way. Once there, we embark on a hike of about 1 hour each way, reaching 4,900 metres (16,076 ft). The vibrant colours of the mountains, created by mineral deposits, are simply mesmerizing. As we walk, the landscape transforms around us, revealing striking stripes of red, orange, yellow, and green, and we’re rewarded with panoramic views of the surrounding valleys and peaks.
After the hike, we enjoy a well-deserved meal in the small town of Checacupe, sharing stories and highlights from our journey. We then return to Cusco, reflecting on the stunning landscapes along the way. Back in the city, there’s time to explore, shop, or simply relax before gathering for a final dinner, celebrating the incredible experiences and memories we’ve shared throughout our adventure.
Overnight: Cusco – San Agustin El Dorado Cusco
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
Day 5 - Free Day in Cusco
Today is yours to enjoy Cusco at your own pace – you decide what you do. Take the opportunity to immerse yourself in the city’s vibrant atmosphere and discover some of its most colourful and traditional corners.
You could let yourself be carried away by the lively atmosphere of the San Pedro Market, where you can experience the local sights, sounds and flavours. It is a wonderful opportunity to soak up the everyday atmosphere of Cusco and experience a more authentic side of the city.
Or, you may also wish to stroll through the picturesque streets towards the traditional neighbourhood of San Blas, known for its talented artisans and charming main square with its large fountain. For a spectacular view across the city, continue up to the mirador and take in the panorama of Cusco.
The remainder of the day is at leisure to enjoy Cusco as you wish.
Overnight: Cusco – San Agustin El Dorado Cusco
Meals Included: Breakfast
Day 6 - The Inca Trail Begins
Inca Trail – Day 1
Starting our trek, the excitement is palpable. The Inca Trail is one of the most famous treks in the world, and for good reason. The scenery is stunning, the history is rich, and the sense of adventure is unbeatable. Today, we meet our Inca Trail guides and porters, who will support us along the way. Porters carry the group’s belongings, tents, and supplies, with a weight limit of 10 kg per person. As we walk, our guide shares fascinating stories about the Incas, their engineering marvels, and their way of life.
We trek 12 kilometres (7.5 miles) alongside the Vilcanota River, climbing 700 metres (2,297 ft) and visiting Llactapata, an Inca site thought to be a rest stop for travellers heading to Machu Picchu. The views of Veronica Mountain and the lush valleys make the journey unforgettable. We end the day at our first campsite, Yuncachimpa, at 3,300 metres (10,826 ft), enjoying a hearty dinner under the stars and sharing stories as we rest, ready for the days ahead on this incredible trek.
Walking time: 6-7 hours.
Positive altitude difference: +700 metres / 2297 feet.
Accommodation: Overnight in shared tents (single tents available if you prefer to book the single supplement option)
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Please Note – Campsites: Camps during the path of the Incas are chosen by the INC (organization in charge of the management of the archaeological park), for each group. We cannot decide in this choice. This is why, depending on the campsites, the days indicated (walking time, altitude difference, etc.) can be modified, as well as the arrival time on the Machu Picchu site (sunrise on the site in particular).
Day 7 - Inca Trail Day 2
Inca Trail – Day 2
We rise early for a challenging day as we climb to Warmihuañusca Pass, the highest point of the trail at 4,215 metres (13,780 ft). Known as Dead Woman’s Pass, this is the toughest part of the Inca Trail. The air thins as we ascend, so we take our time, staying hydrated and resting often. The sense of achievement at the top is incredible, with breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
After a short break, we descend to Pacaymayo at 3,600 metres (11,811 ft), navigating steep and rocky paths through changing ecosystems – from high-altitude grasslands to lush cloud forests. Along the way, our guides share fascinating stories about Inca culture, highlighting the significance of local plants and wildlife.
Today’s trek covers 11 kilometres (6.8 miles) over 9-10 hours, with a total climb of 900 metres (2,953 ft). Upon reaching Pacaymayo, we set up camp and enjoy a well-earned meal.
In the evening, we reflect on the day’s challenge and the history of the trail, feeling a deep connection to the ancient Inca civilisation.
Walking time: about 9-10 hours
Overnight: Camping
Positive altitude difference: + 900 metres / 2953 feet.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Day 8 - Inca Trail Day 3
Inca Trail – Day 3
We start the day trekking through lush cloud forests filled with orchids, bromeliads, and hummingbirds, following Inca-built tunnels, stone bridges, and pathways. Our first stop is Sayacmarca, the “Inaccessible Town,” perched on a cliffside and reachable only by a narrow stone staircase. The ruins are fascinating, and the views are breathtaking.
Next, we visit Phuyupatamarca, the “Town in the Clouds,” known for its terraces and ceremonial baths that showcase the Inca’s engineering skills. Continuing along the trail, we reach Wiñaywayna, or “Forever Young,” with its cascading terraces and interconnected ritual baths.
Today’s trek covers about 16 kilometres (10 miles) with a climb of 500 metres (1,640 ft) over 7-8 hours. By the time we arrive at our campsite near Wiñaywayna at 2,650 metres (8,694 ft), excitement for tomorrow’s visit to Machu Picchu is high. After dinner, it’s an early night, as we’ll be up before sunrise to begin the final part of our journey.
Walking time: 7-8 hours
Positive altitude difference: + 500 metres /1640 feet.
Accommodation: Overnight in shared tents.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Note: On the evening of this day, tips and gifts are given to the trekking team. Tipping is a custom here in the Andes, amplified by the great human involvement of the organization of the Inca path. So don’t be surprised by this custom. This will be advised prior to the trip.
Day 9 - Inca Trail Day 4
Inca Trail – Day 4
Waking up before dawn, there’s a sense of excitement and anticipation in the air. We pack up our gear and begin our final ascent to the Sun Gate.
As we approach, the first rays of sunlight illuminate the ancient city, and we catch our first breathtaking glimpse of Machu Picchu at 2,430 metres (7,972 ft). We take a moment to savour the view, feeling the thrill of accomplishment after the trek and celebrating this achievement with an amazing group of ladies.
Entering the citadel, it’s hard to believe we’re finally here. The ruins are even more impressive in person, and our guide leads us on a tour of the main sites.
We learn about the history of Machu Picchu, its discovery by Hiram Bingham in 1911, and the theories about its purpose and significance. The precision of the stonework, the alignment with astronomical events, and the sheer scale of the site are awe-inspiring.
In the afternoon, we take a bus down to Aguas Calientes before catching the train back to Cusco, reflecting on the unforgettable journey we’ve just completed together.
Walking time: 2/3 hours Positive altitude difference: + 200 metres / 656 feet.
Meals included: Breakfast
Overnight: Cusco – San Agustin El Dorado Cusco
Day 10 - Farewell to Peru!
As our incredible journey comes to an end, we enjoy a leisurely morning in Cusco before our transfer to the airport. We reflect on the unforgettable experiences and the beauty of Peru as we head home, enriched by the memories of this remarkable adventure. Safe travels!
As we say goodbye to Peru, we’re filled with a sense of gratitude for the incredible experiences we’ve had. From exploring the ancient streets of Cusco to trekking the legendary Inca Trail and witnessing the majesty of Machu Picchu, this adventure has been unforgettable.
Safe travels, everyone! We’ve made memories that will last a lifetime, and we look forward to our next adventure together!
Meals Included: Breakfast
PLEASE NOTE
The itinerary is subject to change. Whilst we do our best to follow the published itinerary, activities, timings and locations may be amended due to weather conditions, wildlife movements, road conditions, park regulations or other operational requirements.
Accommodation, room sizes and facilities may vary between lodges and hotels.
We reserve the right to substitute accommodation with an alternative of a similar standard should circumstances require.
Images used on this website and in promotional materials are for illustrative purposes only and do not guarantee specific sightings, accommodation rooms, views or experiences.
Travel in remote areas forms part of the experience. Infrastructure, services and facilities may differ from those typically experienced in the UK, Europe or North America.
Most activities and transfers will be conducted as a group; but this is dependent on group numbers.
Prices quoted in USD are subject to exchange rate fluctuations and may vary at the time of booking.
Booking fees apply on the We Travel booking site.
We cannot be held responsible for delays, disruptions or alterations caused by circumstances beyond our reasonable control, including but not limited to adverse weather, natural events, government actions, transport disruptions, strikes or supplier-related issues.
Information published on this website is believed to be accurate at the time of publication but may be updated or amended without notice.
FAQ
What's Included
- Accommodation as per itinerary (based on twin occupancy) including camping tents on the Inca Trial
- All Transportation outlined in the itinerary
- Meals as per itinerary
- Local guide – english speaking
- Excursions and visits outlined in the itinerary
- Airport transfers (pickup & dropoff)
What's not included
- International flights
- Domestic flights
- Sleeping bags and sleeping mats – but can be hired through us
- Additional Excursions – any extra trips, visits or activities not outlined in the itinerary
- Additional meals not mentioned in itinerary
- Gratuities / tipping – custom – Approx $200pp
- Drinks
- Personal expenses – Personal spending money & money for tips. laundry, souvenirs etc.
- Travel Insurance
- Visa costs
- All those not mentioned in the inclusion section
Your host
This unforgettable Incan adventure is hosted by Felicity, an experienced Wild Hearted Host and expedition leader. With Felicity at the helm, our unforgettable trek promises to be an enriching blend of adventure and camaraderie.
Felicity Turner
Fliss is an experienced mountain leader in the UK and loves being connected with the outdoors and going on adventures.
She has lots of expedition managing experience, guiding people safely around the mountains in the UK and has experience of guiding overseas adventures in Nepal, Morocco Costa Rica and Tanzania.
She is looking to explore many more new places with a forever growing bucket list, Peru is up there!
Fliss is a fully qualified Mountain leader with remote first aid and mental health first aid.
At times, unforeseen circumstances may require a change in your assigned host. However, rest assured that you’ll always be in the capable hands of a passionate, knowledgeable, and exceptional host from the Wild Hearted team, ensuring an unforgettable experience.