Essential Inca Trail

Pressed for time? This express version of our eight-day Inca Trail trip cuts through the same amazing Andean landscapes, but with some challenging longer trekking days and pre-dawn starts. Our goal is the ancient Inca citadel of Machu Picchu, one of the New Wonders of the World, and we’ll wake early on our visiting day to beat the day trippers from Cuzco. Better yet, we’ll be led by some of the most experienced guides on the trail, who will help unravel the mysteries of the Incas.



Please note: A permit is required to walk the Inca Trail. These are strictly limited and highly sought after; therefore, we strongly recommend booking early to avoid disappointment.

Our Essential Inca Trail trip starts and ends in Cuzco, where we enjoy the comfort of our three-star hotel. Our Inca Trail is offered on a full-service camping basis with full porterage, meaning our camp staff put up and take down the tents for you, cook, and do all the camp chores. You need only carry your backpack for the day and enjoy your time on trek.



Cuzco: Royal Inka 1 Hotel (nights 1, 2 and 6)







The three-star Royal Inka 1 is conveniently located on Plaza Regocijo, two blocks from Cuzco’s central plaza, providing easy access to shops, cafes and restaurants. The 300-year-old Spanish-style hotel has an open courtyard, plus a restaurant and bar in which to dine and relax.



Inca Trail: Full-service camping (nights 3-5)







We sleep and dine in good-quality four-season tents. We also have a toilet tent set up both in camp and during lunch stops. Boiled and filtered drinking water is provided in the mornings, at lunch and dinner times so we can refill our water bottles. A bowl of warm water for washing is provided each morning and evening. We stay in official campsites where additional bathroom facilities are available.



Worth knowing



Single accommodation (including tents) can be arranged, subject to availability. Please request this at the time of booking.