Inca Trail
Trip Valid:
01/01/2008 to 31/12/2008
Duration:
8 days (Lima to Cuzco)
Highlights:
Explore the historic centre of Lima, Trek the challenging Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, Wander the atmospheric streets of Cuzco
Trip Code:
GXB
Guarantee:
Departure is guaranteed
Group Size:
Minimum 1, Maximum 16
Price:
USD $760
*(plus local payment USD $300)
pricing for United States: change country
Extras:
view 2008 airport transfers and pre- & post-trip accommodation prices
Retrace the steps of one of the most fascinating civilisations in the Americas. Follow Inca traditions and history from Cuzco, through the fertile sacred valley and then hike to the ultimate Peruvian icon, magnificent Machu Picchu. Get a taste for colonial Spain in Lima and discover colourful traditions that still remain while discovering the ancient Inca on this active adventure.
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meals included: 6 Breakfasts, 3 Lunches, 3 Dinners
transport: Plane, train, local bus, walking
accommodation: Hotels (4 nts), camping (3 nts)
budget: Allow USD $75 for meals not included.
departs: Mon from Jan to Jan, Tue from Feb to Jun, Sat from Jan to Jun
important notes:
On January 2008 this trip will depart on Mondays and Saturdays and from February 08 onwards it will depart on Tuesdays and Saturdays.
The Inca Trail is closed during the month of February for it's cleaning and maintenance. This closure affects all trips in which the Inca Trail portion of the tour starts on or after the 01st of February to and including the 28th of February. Those affected trips will instead hike the Lares Trek.. For more information on the Lares Trek, please click on the below Inca Trail to Machu Picchu link.
The Inca Trail is a moderate 4 day hike at high altitude.
Should you choose not to hike the Inca Trail, please advise us in writing at the time of booking, so alternative arrangements can be made. Without prior warning, local fees may apply.
Important information regarding new regulations and booking procedures for the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu.
we also recommend:
Team the Inca Trail with our Active Galapagos trip for an unforgettable active experience. (GXF)
Day 1 Lima
The Plaza Mayor, in the heart of Lima's historic centre, is an excellent place to get a feel for Peru's colonial past. Surrounded by churches, the centre has a distinctly Spanish flavour. Nearby, the Museo de la Inquisicion offers an insight into the Spanish Inquisition and the beautiful Monasterio de San Francisco houses some fascinating catacombs.
Day 2 Cuzco
An intriguing blend of Inca and Spanish architecture, there is plenty to see and do in Cuzco. Take a walking tour to get acquainted with some of the lesser known sights of this wonderful town and admire the Inca-built walls that line the central streets. For a change of pace, head to the central market to browse the stalls alongside Quechua-speaking descendents of the Incas and maybe pick up some alpaca goods or magic charms.
Day 3 Sacred Valley
Visit Pisac with its famous artisan market and travel through the fertile Sacred Valley, where most of the region's fresh produce is grown. Look out for the maize crops surrounding the river and covering the terraces, carved high into the valley walls. These crops have long been the main source of food for the high Andes. In Ollantaytambo the geometrically perfect streets are a magnifcent example of Incan urban planning and a testament to the greatness of the former empire - this is one of the few places the Incas defeated the Spanish.
Days 4-7 Inca Trail
Trek along one of the trails that once linked the Inca Empire. The ancient paths wind past mountains, across high plateaus and through dense cloud forest and temple ruins. Cross challenging mountain passes, including Dead Woman's Pass at 4,200 m, and camp out in the evenings. Be sure to stop and take in the stunning panoramic views along the way.
On the final day, climb the steps to Intipunku, the Sun Gate, and watch magnificent Machu Picchu rising from the mist. Rest for a moment before striking out to uncover the mystery of these amazing Inca ruins - were they a noble retreat, astonomical observatory or something else? You decide. Wandering through the temples and palaces, there are plenty of photo opportunities so don't forget your camera. Back in Cuzco why not find a cafe to down a celebratory glass of Pisco Sour, the national drink?
Day 8 Cuzco
For an active farewell to Peru, it's possible to explore the Urubamba River or go mountain biking through the Sacred Valley. For those with weary legs, head to Plaza de Armas and enjoy free time to relax, shop and explore more of Cuzco's sights
| start date | finish date | places available | bookings |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tue 20 May 08 | Tue 27 May 08 | bookings closed | |
| Sat 24 May 08 | Sat 31 May 08 | bookings closed | |
| Tue 27 May 08 | Tue 03 Jun 08 | bookings closed | |
| Tue 03 Jun 08 | Tue 10 Jun 08 | 7 |
late request
20% off! |
| Tue 10 Jun 08 | Tue 17 Jun 08 | 7 |
late request
20% off! |
| Tue 17 Jun 08 | Tue 24 Jun 08 | 7+ | late request |
| Sat 21 Jun 08 | Sat 28 Jun 08 | 7+ | book now |
| Tue 24 Jun 08 | Tue 01 Jul 08 | 7+ | book now |
| Sat 28 Jun 08 | Sat 05 Jul 08 | 7+ | book now |
| Tue 01 Jul 08 | Tue 08 Jul 08 | 5 | book now |
| Sat 05 Jul 08 | Sat 12 Jul 08 | 7+ | book now |
| Tue 08 Jul 08 | Tue 15 Jul 08 | bookings closed | |
| Tue 15 Jul 08 | Tue 22 Jul 08 | 2 | book now |
| Sat 19 Jul 08 | Sat 26 Jul 08 | 7+ | book now |
| Tue 22 Jul 08 | Tue 29 Jul 08 | 6 | book now |
| Sat 26 Jul 08 | Sat 02 Aug 08 | 2 | book now |
| Tue 29 Jul 08 | Tue 05 Aug 08 | 7+ | book now |
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| Tue 12 Aug 08 | Tue 19 Aug 08 | 7 | book now |
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| Tue 19 Aug 08 | Tue 26 Aug 08 | 7 | book now |
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| Sat 30 Aug 08 | Sat 06 Sep 08 | 7+ | book now |
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| Sat 20 Sep 08 | Sat 27 Sep 08 | 2 | book now |
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| Tue 30 Sep 08 | Tue 07 Oct 08 | 3 | book now |
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| Sat 08 Nov 08 | Sat 15 Nov 08 | 7+ | book now |
| Tue 11 Nov 08 | Tue 18 Nov 08 | 7+ | book now |
| Sat 15 Nov 08 | Sat 22 Nov 08 | 7+ | book now |
| Tue 18 Nov 08 | Tue 25 Nov 08 |
