PERU - Classic Inca Trail
The world's most famous short trek ~ Incomparable Machu Picchu ~ Vibrant Cusco ~ Inca history and culture
5 nights hotels & lodges, 4 nights camping, 5 days MODERATE trekking. Max. altitude - 4200m. All meals included on trek and breakfast in hotels
moderate
Hidden in the remote Andes, the 15th Century Inca citadel of Machu Picchu is arguably the outstanding highlight amongst both the natural and man-made wonders of the entire South American continent. Starting out from the Sacred Valley of the Incas and traversing the foothills of Peru’s Cordillera Vilcabamba, this classic approach to Machu Picchu takes 4 days and covers approximately 10 kilometres per day. Known as the Inca Trail, this is recognised to be one of the world’s great short treks. Crossing three high passes, this long-established route follows sections of stone pathway created by the Incas four centuries ago and provides tremendous views of spectacular forested valleys and of the snow-capped peaks of the Vilcabamba. Airy campsites and a wealth of historical interest add to the appeal of this great trek. There is much more to this Peruvian holiday than trekking, however. Our visit to Peru begins with a short and exciting flight from the capital city of Lima to Cusco, high in the Andes. We then have 2 days for exploration of this charming and cosmopolitan city, which is famous for the wealth of its Inca stonework, as well as for its extravagant Spanish Colonial architecture. We have also included a day for sightseeing amongst the Inca ruins in the Valley of the Incas, before setting off on trek. Of course, for many people the highlight of this trip will be Machu Picchu itself, which is unquestionably the most important and most spectacular archaeological site in South America. We have scheduled a full day of sightseeing at Machu Picchu, with a guided tour and also time for independent exploration. In conclusion, this short holiday offers an almost unbelievable variety of experiences - from snow-capped Andes peaks, blue glacial lakes, cloud forest, orchids and hummingbirds to magnificent Inca remains and fascinating South American cities.
This classic adventure holiday offers a variety of trekking conditions. Most of the walking is on well-defined tracks, including some sections of ancient Inca highways, which are paved with stone in places. There are a couple of quite tough days - but overall the trekking is straightforward and not sustained or committing. We have allowed three nights at an altitude of a little over 3000 metres before we start trekking and this, together with a short and easy first day's walk, should provide excellent acclimatisation for the group.
BOOK EARLY for the Inca Trail!
New rules mean that permits for the Inca Trail are limited and allocated on a first-come, first-served basis. Book early to guarantee your place on your chosen departure.
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The trip pages are only a brief summary of the details available within our trip dossiers. It is important that you read the full day to day description and further information for this trip before making your booking.
Download a dossier for PERU - Classic Inca Trail
