Follow the ancient footsteps of the Incas on Peru’s most iconic trail—featuring breathtaking landscapes, expert guides, premium support teams, and a life-changing arrival at Machu Picchu.
Have you ever considered making the trek to Machu Picchu? We offer an extraordinary Inca Trail tours to Machu Picchu trekking trips that will have you wondering why you haven’t tackled this opportunity sooner!
The Inca Trail Qhapaq Ñan in quechua) was the system of number of roads and trails that connected the Inca Empire. The Qhapaq Ñan linked the main Inca cities with other regions spread along the Inca Empire. One of these roads is in fact the popular Inca Trail that connects Cusco with Machu Picchu.
We have designed three trekking options—two-day, four-day and five-day tours—perfect for you, your partner, family, and friends. These treks guide you through the stunning landscapes of the Andes and nearby areas. As you trek along the ancient Inca trails, you’ll be captivated by the lush cloud forest, diverse vegetation, and unique wildlife. While you’ll encounter rich history and culture throughout your journey, the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Machu Picchu stands out as a highlight. This trip promises to be a memorable vacation and a remarkable experience you’ll cherish for a lifetime.
Experience the thrill of a condensed Inca Trail journey! This action-packed trek takes you through stunning landscapes and ancient ruins. Arrive at Machu Picchu for a breathtaking sunset tour, then return the next morning for a full exploration of this mystical citadel. Perfect for those short on time but big on excitement!
Embark on the classic Inca Trail adventure! Trek through diverse ecosystems, conquer challenging mountain passes, and discover hidden Incan ruins along the way. Reach the Sun Gate for a magical first glimpse of Machu Picchu, then descend for an evening tour. Wake up early for a second visit, immersing yourself in the ancient wonder as the morning mist lifts. An unforgettable journey through history and nature!
For the ultimate Inca Trail experience, choose this extended adventure! Enjoy a more relaxed pace as you traverse the legendary path, with extra time to appreciate the breathtaking scenery and fascinating archaeological sites. Arrive at Machu Picchu for an enchanting sunset tour, then return at dawn to witness the citadel come alive in the golden morning light. This extended itinerary allows for deeper exploration and a truly immersive Andean experience!
Get ready for the adventure of a lifetime with our incredible Inca Trail packages! Why stop at just one amazing experience when you can have it all? Imagine trekking the legendary Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, then diving into the lush Amazon jungle, staying at one of South America’s best lodges.
But that’s not all! Explore the mystical Sacred Valley, marvel at the vibrant Rainbow Mountain, and get your adrenaline pumping with exhilarating river rafting. Our Inca Trail tours offer so much more than just a hike – they’re a complete Peruvian adventure! And if you’re still craving more, we’re all ears! Tell us what you’d like to add to your Inca Trail journey, and we’ll make it happen. Your dream Peru expedition awaits – let’s make it unforgettable!
Experience the magic of Peru like never before as we combine your favorite destinations and attractions seamlessly into your Inca trail adventure. Let’s River Explorers be your guide to a truly personalized travel experience that captures the essence of this enchanting land.
Hiking and exploring ruins along the Inca Trail. What you will encounter and learn during your journey. The Inca Trail to Machu Picchu is ranked amongst the world’s ten best hiking trails due to its stunning beauty, diverse ecological zones and most importantly the impressive ancient Inca ruins located strategically along the trail. The ultimate destination on the Inca Trail is the Lost City of the Incas “Machu Picchu” one of the world’s most astonishing and remarkable archaeological sites and one of the Seven Wonders of the World.
Patallacta (Upper town or Town on the hillside, ca. 2,500 m above sea level) is the first Inca complex on the classic Inca Trail and the 5 day Inca trail and is located just 6 km from the Urubamba River and the Inca trail check point.
This Machu Picchu complex is a miracle of engineering in respect to its size and well-planned layout, it is set on an artificially leveled platform carved out of a semicircular ridge overlooking the confluence of the mighty Urubamba and Cusichaca Rivers.
Cusichaca was the subject of many archaeological excavations and also botanical studies because of its rich plant life. Experts also studied modern coil pottery and other wares in the locality. Excavations were made in five neighboring sites in the Cusichaca area. This area was also the subject of agricultural studies. Rain fed Inca terraces were designed to take advantage of natural features (e.g. alluvial fans). These terraces hold only limited soil since Incan terraces were built with heavily modified terrace fills.
Huayllabamba is an Andean community located a few hours from the start of the Inca Trail. Currently the Andean villagers who are living along the Inca Trail still practice subsistence farming, as their Incan forbearers did. However, others are using new strategies gains coming from the success of the tourism.
The residents of the Huayllabamba community were in fact the first porters who worked for companies that guided tourists during the 1970s. Since then, men have been working as porters carrying tourists back packs from camp to camp specially from Huayllabamba campsite to Warmiwañusca, perhaps the most challenging section of the Inca trail.
The highest day, the hardest day. The day that made you ask yourself over and over, “What the hell was I thinking? Walking at altitude can be tough but Machu Picchu and the other sights make it all worth well.
One name that hikers won’t be able to get out of their heads is “Dead Woman’s Pass” (Warmiwañusca pass) located at 4,215 meters or 13,828 feet the highest point of the Inca trail to Machu Picchu.
Depending where your first night’s camp is located, the hiking distance is approximately from 6 to 10 Kilometers long. This hike is a vertical 1,200 meters – 4,000 feet accent, the elevation become more important as you hike uphill. But relax, Warmiwañusca does have a top, and after hours of walking uphill, you will make the summit. It will be at that moment that make the Inca Trail so special.
While hiking you will see Sayaqmarca, which was known by the locals as Cedrobamba (“Pampa of Cedars”) since there was a cedar forest close to this site. New studies suggest that the name of this place is “the Inaccessible Town”. This name matches perfectly the location of the site, as this place is located atop a mountain and is inaccessible on the sides by steep drops. The Sayacmarca complex is located at a height of 3,600 meters – 11811.02 ft. perfectly built to rest on the steep slopes of the hillsides.
This camp site is located at 3,600 m – 11811.02 ft.
Runkurakay was studied by Hiram Bingham in 1915, who concluded that this complex was a fortress. A later expedition, suggested that Runkurakay was a rest and supply base for the “Chaskis” – runners that delivered messages throughout the Inca Empire. They once ran the Inca Trail at great speed to deliver the Emperor’s messages to Machu Picchu.
The structure contains peculiar concentric and inclined circular walls, egg shaped and box structures, designed to withstand up to earthquakes. The Runkuraqay precinct also contains several dormitories and stables for animals. Runkurakay is a Quechua word and means “egg-shaped” (Egg shaped house). The complex lies on the hill adjacent to the Runkuraqay mountain near the Runkuraqay pass and also the Sayaqmarka and Qunchamarka archaeological sites.
This is one of the most interesting sites on the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu. Phuyupatamarca means City Above the Clouds and is located at 3,670 meters – 12040.68 foot above sea level. This site contains one of the most well-preserved ruins on the Inca trail including scenic farming terraces, fountains with fresh water running constantly even during raining season, curved vantage points, and an elaborate series of baths connected by water channels.
Wiñay Wayna (or Huinay Huayna) is the last campsite on the Inca trail tours to Machu Picchu.
The Wiñay Wayna ruins (“Eternal Youth – Forever Young”) were discovered and named by the Peruvian archaeologist, Julio C. Tello, and the site is located at 2,690 meters – 8,825 foot.
This complex contains a large area of farming terraces, upper and lower structures each connected by a long stone staircase, with fountains and baths. The elaborate architecture of this complex suggests that this place was important during Incan times.
Our prices are carefully set to be fair for both you and us, with the general idea of paying our porters the price they deserve
We include all the essentials for a cozy and secure night under the stars during your hike! This includes top-notch tents, ultra-comfy sleeping air mats, and all the vital camping equipment you could possibly need.
We’ve got you covered with a cozy three-star hotel on the first day of your thrilling 2-day Inca trail adventure, and again on the fourth day of your epic 5-day journey! This ensures you get ample rest before you set off to uncover the mysteries of Machu Picchu on your final day. Let’s make this an unforgettable experience!
This excitingly hints at the golden chance to explore the majestic Machu Picchu not once, but twice during your tour! Imagine delving deeper into its historical wonders and having the opportunity to see it bathed in different hues of sunrise and sunset. It’s an experience that promises unforgettable moments of awe and admiration!
This offers participants the option to hike either Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain, two prominent peaks overlooking Machu Picchu. These hikes provide breathtaking views of the surrounding landscapes and Machu Picchu itself, adding an adventurous element to the tour.
This service provides a picturesque train ride from Machu Picchu to Ollantaytambo, offering passengers panoramic views through large windows or glass ceilings and live shows enhancing the overall journey experience.
We’ve got your travel logistics covered! From your hotel to the starting point of the hikes, be it airports, bus stations or other hotels – we ensure seamless and convenient transitions for all participants throughout the tour. Your adventure is our priority!
Porters are the unsung heroes of any trekking adventure. Their role involves carrying most of the camping gear, supplies, and equipment, which allows participants to enjoy their journey with lighter daypacks and less physical strain. More than just load bearers, porters are instrumental in managing the logistics of the trek and ensuring that participants have a seamless and enjoyable experience. Their hard work truly makes every trekking expedition possible.
• Book 4–6 months early (permits sell out fast)
• Acclimatize in Cusco 1–2 days
• Wear proper broken-in hiking boots
• Bring rain protection and sunblock
• Trekking poles recommended
• Shoulder season offers better availability
• Perfect for long-weekend travel
• Bring layers for varied weather
• Take snacks & a reusable bottle
we pride ourselves on accommodating families of all ages. We believe that travel should be inclusive and enjoyable for everyone, regardless of age. Whether you’re traveling with young children or elderly relatives, we ensure that every member of your family has a memorable and comfortable experience exploring the wonders of the Inca Trail with us.
we welcome all types of groups – whether it’s a school trip, a corporate team-building event, or any other gathering. Our goal is to make your experience memorable and enjoyable, tailored to the specific needs and interests of your group. Let us take care of the details so you can focus on creating lasting memories together.
Get ready for an exhilarating adventure on our specially curated Inca Trail tour for couples! Witness awe-inspiring landscapes, dive deep into the heart of rich history, and craft unforgettable moments together in the majestic realm of Machu Picchu. It’s not just a journey, it’s a thrilling exploration that will leave you both spellbound!
The Qhapaq Ñan, also known as the Inca Road System, stands as a testament to the architectural genius of the Inca Empire. This elaborate network of roads, stretching over an impressive 23,000 miles across South America, is a symbol of their advanced engineering skills. The system not only linked diverse regions but also fostered trade, communication and cultural exchange – a clear demonstration of their sophisticated infrastructure and exceptional organizational capabilities.
The Peruvian authorities have implemented several rules and regulations to protect Machu Picchu, one of the most iconic archaeological sites in the world.
To ensure the protection of the site’s natural and cultural heritage, as well as to enhance visitors’ safety and enjoyment, specific rules and regulations have been put in place. Let’s delve deeper into the guidelines:
Either the 5, 3 or 2 day trails have its own charm. However, there are a few differences.
Inca Trail 2 days: Offers an easy trail. Recommended for those who doesn’t have to much time and for people who will like to have a little taste of this magical trail.
The Classic 4 days Inca Trail: Known also as the Classic Inca Trail. Almost all the tour operators who are certified sell the 4 days. This trek covers all the ruins along the Inca trail and Machu Picchu, you will camp in assigned campsites and is suitable for all level and ages.
The 5 days trail: If you don’t want to miss the whole Inca trail experience and Machu Picchu, then the perfect mix is first hiking for 4 days and continue on with one extra night at Aguas Calientes. This extra day aloud you to eat a nice dinner in a good restaurant, have a nice shower and be completely rested to explore Machu Picchu on the last day with your guide, plus you can have the chance to hike Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain with no rush.
