A spectacular early morning drive through the Sacred Valley of the Incas takes us to our trailhead at Km. 82 of the Machu Picchu railroad.

After getting acquainted with our trail crew we set out, crossing a footbridge to hike a gentle two hours down the Urubamba Canyon, and then visit imposing, sculpted Inca farming terraces and the settlement of Llaqtapata on the banks of the Cusichaca side river.

We then climb a short way up the Cusichaca valley to Huayllabamba, the last inhabited village on the trail, where we camp.

Today’s meals include morning snack, lunch, afternoon snack, and dinner.

The trail climbs gently through the mountains through the last houses of Huayllabamba, and then more steeply past a rushing stream through enchanted, native Polylepis woodland. Crossing the rim of a small plateau, we abruptly find ourselves in the “puna”, the treeless grassland of the High Andes.

After enjoying a hearty lunch, we start our steady ascent towards the highest pass, which is called Abra Warmiwañusca or “Dead Woman’s Pass”, at 13,850 ft. (4,221 m).

We then descend for 90 minutes through the forested Pacaymayo Valley towards our eponymous camp at 11,900 ft. (3,620 m), where our staff will receive us with warm tea and a tasty dinner.

All meals and snacks are included.

We ascend an old Inca stairway that passes by the intimate Inca site of Runkurakay towards the second-highest pass of the trip, which reaches 13,113 ft. From the pass, we enjoy a spectacular view of the snow-capped peaks of the Pumasillo Range. Next, we descend the trail to the Sayacmarca archaeological site, which is an intricate labyrinth of houses, plazas, and water channels perched precariously on a rocky spur overlooking the Aobamba Valley.

After enjoying lunch at a location named Chaquicocha, we continue our hike as the trail morphs into a massive, buttressed walkway composed of granite paving stones. The trail continues along the steep upper fringes of the cloud forest, through a colorful riot of orchids, bromeliads, mosses, and ferns.

At the third pass on our trip, we camp near a rock pinnacle topped with Inca viewing platforms, which overlook the archaeological site known as Phuyupatamarca (“Town of the Clouds”). This camp site allows for fantastic sunrise views of the gigantic, Matterhorn-like, snow-capped peak named Salcantay, the Vilcabamba Mountain Range, and a stunning view down the valley towards the steamy heat of the Amazon rainforest.

All meals and snacks are included.

We explore the wondrous maze of Inca stone towers, fountains and stairways spilling down the mountainside at Phuyupatamarca, and then begin a long descent through ever-changing layers of cloud forest. An Inca stairway partly cut from living granite leads us finally to the site of Wiñay Wayna (“Forever Young”), the largest and most exquisite of the Inca Trail archaeological sites that we encounter before the relatively gigantic grand finale at Machu Picchu. 

In the afternoon, we follow the last stretch of trail across a steep mountainside through a lush, humid cloud forest of giant ferns and broad-leaf vegetation. Suddenly we cross the stone threshold of Inti Punku (“The Sun Gate”) and encounter an unforgettable sweep of natural beauty and human artistry -a backdrop of twisting gorge and forested peaks framing the magical city of Machu Picchu.

We sleep in our selected hotel, either in the valley 2,000 feet below or up at the Sanctuary Lodge by Orient Express.

Today’s meals include breakfast and lunch.

We return to Machu Picchu by shuttle bus up the switchback road to the site and spend the day in both guided and individual exploration, visiting the best-known features of this astounding and mysterious Inca settlement. Some will want to get up extra early to be among the lucky few who “make the cut” to be permitted to do the optional hike to the summit of Wayna Picchu for an amazing overview of the site, while others may want to investigate Machu Picchu's multitude of hidden nooks and corners.

After a full-on experience of this glorious monument to the Inca achievement, lunch will be up top at the restaurant of the Belmond Sanctuary Lodge 

The Campsites are assigned randomly by the government authorities of the Inca Trail.  Q'inti's Camp Site consists of double occupancy tents, a chemical toilet in a toilet tent, and a dining tent.  The tents are either REI or Northface tents.  They are equipped with a thermarest mattress for isolation from the cold, a sleeping bag from Northface or REI, a sleeping bag liner and a small light .  In the morning our staff will wake you up with a bowl of warm water and a washcloth. 

Pacaymayo Campsite, located at approximately 3,590 meters above sea level on the Inca Trail in Peru, is a unique stop for trekkers due to its stunning views and historical significance. Nestled in the Andes, this campsite offers a serene environment with breathtaking vistas of the surrounding mountains and valleys. Travelers can explore nearby Inca ruins, enjoy the natural beauty, and experience the tranquility of the high Andes.

The sun rises slowly and spreads a magical glow over the majestic ruins of the ancient city and the surrounding peaks of the Andes Mountains. At the first sight of Machu Picchu, the lost Inca city in Peru, it seems unreal. This ancient city sits on top of a mountain peak of 2400 meters high and was constructed with large, heavy stones placed and cut to precision. This is the mystery that drives people from all over the world to come and witness and stare in awe at this wonder of nature.

Experience the charm of Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo Hotel, set amidst lush gardens and just moments away from the iconic Machu Picchu ruins. This eco-friendly retreat offers guided nature walks, a luxurious spa, and unique casitas designed with traditional Andean architecture, ensuring a memorable stay in a breathtaking location.

Experience the breathtaking views of the Andes and the Urubamba River at Sumaq Machu Picchu Hotel, located just moments away from the iconic Machu Picchu ruins. Indulge in gourmet dining that highlights local flavors while enjoying luxurious spa services. Engage in cultural experiences like Andean cooking classes for a unique stay.

Casa Andina Standard Machu Picchu is ideally situated near the entrance to Machu Picchu, ensuring easy access for your adventures. Enjoy cozy rooms with stunning mountain views and indulge in local cuisine at the on-site restaurant. With a short walk to the train station and a commitment to sustainability, this hotel offers a memorable stay.

Peru is most famous for the sacred archaeological site of Machu Picchu – visited each year by scores of intrepid hikers who brave the Inca Trail’s arduous slopes to explore the age-old ruins. The country’s attractions extend far beyond the mystical allure of this legendary location and include palm-fringed beaches, quaint Andean villages and archaeological treasures that predate Machu Picchu by hundreds of years – all imbued with the nation’s rich melange of indigenous and colonial cultures. Equally enticing are the exotic reaches of Peru’s Amazon rainforest; Lima’s superb eateries, exquisite architecture and effervescent nightlife; the glittering, mountain-ringed waters of Lake Titicaca; and the vibrant city of Cusco, referred to by the Incas as ‘the centre of the world’.

Banking and Currency

Currency 

Local currency: Peruvian Sol 
Symbol: S/ 
ISO code: PEN 
Subunit: céntimo 
Banknotes: S/10, S/20, S/50, S/100, S/200 
Coins: céntimo, S/1, S/2, S/5 

Banking 

Card Transactions: Yes 
ATMs: Yes 
Mastercard: Yes 
Visa: Yes 
American Express: Yes 
Diner’s club: No 

Banking Hours: 
Weekdays: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM 
Weekends: Closed 
Public Holidays: Yes 
Foreign exchange services: Yes 

Travel, Transport and Getting Around

Air: 

Main airlines: LATAM Airlines, Avianca 
International Airports: Jorge Chávez International Airport (Lima) 
Domestic Airports: Alejandro Velasco Astete International Airport (Cusco), Rodríguez Ballón International Airport (Arequipa), Capitán FAP Carlos Martínez de Pinillos International Airport (Trujillo) 

Road: 

Driving on the: Right 
Tar roads: Yes 
Gravel roads: Yes 
Valid International Driver's License needed: Yes 
Car hire available: Yes 
Taxis: Yes 
E-hailing services: Yes 

Bus: 

Inter-city bus services: Yes 
Local city bus networks: Yes 

Rail: 

Railway system: Limited 
Subway System: No 

Water: 

Ferries: Limited 
Water taxis: Yes 
Leisure cruises: Limited 

Health and Medical Information

Q'inti meets or exceeds the travel industry’s latest global health and safety protocols.

Food, Drink and Cuisine Advice

Food and water safety: 

Can you drink the tap water: No 
Fresh fruit and veg: Yes 
Ice: Yes 
Meat: Yes 
Street food: Yes 

Local cuisine: 

Peruvian cuisine is diverse and flavourful, featuring influences from indigenous, Spanish, African, and Asian cuisines. Highlights include ceviche (marinated raw fish), lomosaltado (stir-fried beef), and causa (layered potato dish). Notable local drinks include Pisco Sour (cocktail), chicha morada (purple corn drink), and Inca Kola. 
Tipping: 10% 

Climate and Weather

Annual rainfall: Varies by region 
Average temperature: Varies by region 

Summer: 

Average highs: Varies by region 
Average lows: Varies by region 

 Winter: 

Average highs: Varies by region 
Average lows: Varies by region 

Best time to visit: 

The best time to visit Peru is during the dry season, from May to September, when the weather is generally sunny and dry, making it ideal for outdoor activities and exploring the ancient ruins. 

Clothing and Dress Recommendations

Spring and Summer 

Cool, light, breathable and comfortable: Yes 
Lightweight warm clothes: No 

Winter and Autumn 

Jerseys, cardigans, sweaters, jackets: Recommended 
Heavyweight clothing and boots: Yes 

General 

Umbrella and raincoat: Yes 
Warm gloves, hat and scarf: No 
Swimming costume (bathing suit): Yes 
Hat, sunglasses and sunblock: Yes 
Walking shoes: Yes 
Casual: Yes 
Smart-casual attire: Yes 

Internet Availability

Internet cafes: Yes 
Accommodation options: Yes 
Restaurants: Yes 
Cafes: Yes 
Shopping malls: Yes 
Public parks: Yes 
Libraries: Yes 

Electricity and Plug Standards

Plug Type: Type A, Type B 
Voltage (V): 220V 
Frequency Hertz (Hz): 60Hz 

*Travel plug adapter and voltage converter might be necessary depending on your appliances.