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Machu Picchu via the Inca Trail - The Way of the Incas
Trip Highlights
Follow the legendary Inca Trail, the only route that lets you trek directly into the ancient citadel of Machu Picchu.
Walk in the footsteps of the Inca civilization, through cloud forests, high mountain passes, and hidden ruins, revealing the secrets of the Inca Empire.
Discover rarely-seen Inca ruins along the trail, only accessible to those who hike this historic route.
Cross the legendary Sun Gate at sunrise, witnessing Machu Picchu emerge from the mist in a truly unforgettable moment.
Take on the challenge of Dead Woman’s Pass (4,215m), the highest point of the trek, with breathtaking Andean views.
Why choose us for this adventure?
-
Bucket List Adventure
Experience one of the most iconic and sought-after treks in the world, leading to the UNESCO World Heritage Site.
-
Extra Acclimatisation Day
Visit the ancient Inca ruins of Huchuy Qosqo in the Cordillera Blanca region, helping you adjust to the altitude and enjoy a richer cultural experience.
-
Expert Local Guides
Gain a deeper understanding of the region's history, culture, and natural beauty with our highly knowledgeable guides.
-
Trek and Culture Combo
Explore breathtaking high-altitude towns like Cusco, Ollantaytambo and Aguas Calientes, blending trekking with cultural discovery.
Download the full Trip Guide
The EverTrek Difference
We go the extra mile – before you even hit the trail!
EverTrek App
Get access to our mobile Trip Planner App with maps, countdown to your trip, tick lists weather updates plus insider knowledge to get the most out of your trip!
PLUS Get a FREE training plan from The Altitude Centre
Book now and you can get a FREE consultation & training plan from The Altitude Centre!
What's Included
- All Food and Accommodation on the trek
- Airport Pick-up and Drop-off service in a private vehicle
- 4 nights in Cusco - shared hotel rooms as standard across all trips
- Hiking Permits & Entrance Permits to Machu Picchu
- All meals on the trek including hot drinks
- Qualified guides & mountain crew - best in the business
- Visit to the remote Huchuy Qosqo in the Cordillera Urubamba.
- Expedition train tickets from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo
- Bus tickets from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu
- All accommodation whilst on the trek in tents
- Boiled water on the mountain
- Full-Day Sacred Valley tour in private services with entrance fees and lunch
- EverTrek Trip Planner App
- Exclusive equipment discounts from Ellis Brigham, Osprey, The Altitude Center and loads more
- EverTrek pre-trip support
Trip Extensions
Enhance your adventure with our range of trip extensions.
Rainbow Mountain Trip Extension
Rainbow Mountain stands as an incredible natural marvel soaring to a staggering 5200 meters. For us at EverTrek HQ, it’s like a playground for Yetis, offering an ideal blend of high altitude, vibrant landscapes, and thrilling adventures!
Lake Titicaca Trip Extension
Embark on an unforgettable journey and delve deeper into the mesmerizing beauty of Peru by extending your adventure to the serene and awe-inspiring Lake Titicaca. As the largest lake in South America and the highest navigable lake in the world, Lake Titicaca sits at an altitude of 3,812m and offers an experience like no other. Marvel at the crystal-clear waters and immerse yourself in the captivating cultural heritage of the Uros people, who reside on the famous floating islands made entirely from reeds harvested from the lake.
Difficulty:
Moderate
How challenging is the trek?
The Inca Trail is legendary and not just for where it leads. Over four days, this trail takes you across high mountain passes, through cloud forests and ancient ruins, before finally arriving at Machu Picchu via the Sun Gate.
Now, while it's not the highest trek out there (the max altitude is 4,215m at Dead Woman’s Pass), don’t underestimate it. The Inca Trail is physically demanding thanks to the endless stone steps, big elevation changes, and consecutive days of hiking. It’s a different kind of challenge compared to high-altitude Himalayan treks - more intense leg work, but less time at extreme altitude.
It’s 100% achievable for most fit and prepared trekkers - but it’s not a casual stroll to the ruins.
Pre-Trek Fitness Prep
To get ready for the Inca Trail, you should be able to:
- Hike for 5 to 7 hours a day with a 6 to 8kg daypack
- Climb 1,000m of elevation gain, including steep and uneven stone steps
- Handle multi-day hikes with consistent pace and no full rest days
- Build up leg strength, cardio endurance, and ideally do some stair training
If you haven’t trekked at altitude before, this is a great place to start, just make sure you do the training. It’s not Everest, but it’s no picnic either.
What to expect on the trek
Altitude Challenges
The highest point is Dead Woman’s Pass at 4,215m, which you'll reach on Day 2 the toughest day by far. While this isn’t high compared to Himalayan peaks, it’s still enough to feel the effects of thinner air: shortness of breath, fatigue, and a slower pace.
The good news? You don’t stay that high for long, and the rest of the trek gradually descends toward Machu Picchu.
Duration
The classic trek takes 4 days, with a 5th day for your visit to Machu Picchu. Most trekking days involve 5 to 7 hours of walking, with one much longer day depending on your route and camp locations.
Permits are limited and fixed to specific campsites, so the pace is usually steady but consistent.
Terrain
The trail is famously paved with original Inca stonework and that means lots and lots of steps. Expect:
- Stone staircases up and down, sometimes very steep and uneven
- Narrow mountain trails with big views and occasional drops
- No technical sections, just a tough, sustained leg workout
Walking poles and good trekking boots are highly recommended, your knees will thank you on the descents.
Weather
Days can be sunny and warm at lower altitudes, but mornings and nights get cold, especially around the higher camps. Rain is still possible, especially at either end of the season.
Summit day at Machu Picchu often starts in the pre-dawn hours, so you’ll need warm layers and a headtorch to begin with, shedding layers as the sun comes up.
The Inca Trail to Machu Picchu is the perfect blend of physical challenge, history, and scenery. It’s not the most extreme trek in terms of altitude, but the combination of steep climbs, high passes, and ancient stone paths makes it a rewarding effort, especially when you arrive at the Sun Gate with Machu Picchu laid out in front of you.
If you’re after a bucket-list adventure with cultural depth and a sense of journey - this is it.
Essential Kit
Take a look at the recommended essential kit below to ensure you're fully equipped and ready to enjoy your trip to the fullest. A full and detailed packing list can be downloaded.
Waterproof jacket
A versatile gore-tex or similar material jacket is ideal for year round walking, hiking and trekking in the roughest weather. Jackets like the Latok Mountain GORE-TEX® Pro Jacket offer great weather protection and breathability when you need it.
Latok Mountain GORE-TEX Pro Jacket
Insulated jacket
A down or synthetic insulated jacket is a must for sub-zero conditions. Jackets like the Montane Anti-Freeze XT Down Hoodie use water-resistant down for an excellent warmth-to-weight ratio, with features like high collars and storm flaps to trap heat.
Montane Anti-Freeze XT Down Hoodie
Sleeping bag
A warm and reliable down-filled sleeping bag is essential for multi-day trekking or backpacking adventures. The Rab Ascent 700 is a great example, made with recycled materials and designed for both regular camping and mountain use.
Rab Ascent 700
Base layer top
A warm and breathable long-sleeve base layer, combining materials like Merino wool and synthetic fibres, helps regulate body temperature in various outdoor conditions. The Helly Hansen Lifa Merino Midweight is one such example.
Helly Hansen Lifa Merino Midweight
Trekking shorts
Lightweight and durable walking shorts are ideal for fast-paced mountain hikes. Shorts like Montane's Tenacity Lite use stretch fabrics to offer protection from wind and abrasion.
Montane Tenacity Lite Shorts
Trekking trousers
Tough, lightweight and versatile trousers are perfect for a range of outdoor activities. The Montane Terra Pants continue to be a go-to choice for everything from trekking to scrambling.
Montane Terra Pants
Trekking poles
Lightweight yet sturdy walking poles help with balance and reduce strain on steep or uneven terrain. The Leki Khumbu Lite poles are a popular option for hill walking and mountain hiking.
Leki Khumbu Lite
Mountain sunglasses
Protective and high-performance sunglasses are important for alpine environments. Sunglasses like the Julbo Shield Reactiv combine style with serious high-mountain protection.
Julbo Shield Reactiv
Leggings
Lightweight leggings with moisture-wicking fabrics are ideal for active use. The North Face Flex High Rise Leggings offer comfort and sweat management during exercise.
The North Face Flex High Rise Leggings
Technical T-shirt
A moisture-wicking technical tee is essential for active days in the hills. The Rab Force T-Shirt is a reliable choice for mountain walkers and runners alike.
Rab Force T-Shirt
Hiking boots
Supportive and grippy walking boots are key for long hikes and rugged trails. The Salomon Quest 4 GTX boots are built for demanding conditions and multi-day use.
Salomon Quest 4 GTX
Hiking socks
A good pair of merino-blend walking socks helps keep feet warm and comfortable on long walks. The Bridgedale Merino Hiker socks are a dependable option for various terrains.
Bridgedale Merino Hiker
Daypack
A 30-35L daypack is a great size for longer hikes or overnight trips. Packs like the Osprey Talon 33 balance load well and offer good back ventilation.
Osprey Talon 33
Fleece mid layer
A soft, insulating fleece is great for layering on cooler days. The North Face Cornice II is a sustainable option made from recycled materials.
The North Face Cornice II
Warm beanie
A warm and comfortable beanie is ideal for cold weather walks or everyday use. The Mountain Equipment Humbolt Beanie fits the bill.
Mountain Equipment Humbolt Beanie
Hydration reservoir
A 2-3L hydration bladder helps you stay hydrated on the move. The Osprey Hydraulics 3L Reservoir is stable, easy to use, and reliable.
Osprey Hydraulics 3L Reservoir
Water bottle
A durable, wide-mouth bottle is handy for refilling on the go. Nalgene's Sustain 1L Water Bottle is a classic, perfect for day hikes or longer trips.
Nalgene Sustain 1L Water Bottle
Waterproof gloves
Warm, waterproof gloves are essential for wet and cold mountain days. Gloves like the Montane Respond Dry Line offer protection and dexterity in tough conditions.
Montane Respond Dry Line
Headtorch
A compact and bright headtorch is important for early starts or late finishes. The Petzl Tikka 350L is simple to use and effective for low-light navigation.
Petzl Tikka 350L
Sleeping mat
A lightweight and compact sleeping mat adds essential insulation and comfort for overnight stays outdoors. Mats like the Therm-a-Rest NeoAir XLite NXT offer excellent warmth-to-weight performance, making them a solid choice for backpacking and wild camping.
Therm-a-Rest NeoAir XLite NXT
Portable power bank
A high-capacity power bank is a great way to keep your devices charged on multi-day trips or when you're off the grid. Options like the Anker PowerCore 20000mAh offer multiple charges for phones and other electronics, making them ideal for camping, backpacking, or travel.
Anker PowerCore 20000mAh
Sustainable Tourism
Because we only use local guiding teams it ensures your trip directly benefits the local mountain communities.
9-Day Machu Picchu via the Inca Trail - The Way of the Incas Itinerary
Welcome to Peru!
One of our team will transfer you from Cusco airport to the hotel where you will meet up with the rest of your group who will be just as excited as you are to get trekking!
Today is arrival day which is another opportunity for you to explore your surroundings and the amazing city of Cusco. You can check out San Pedro where there will be a lot of local activities and always a great photo opportunity. You could even visit San Blas (the historic & artistic neighbourhood). It's the city's most picturesque district with its narrow and steep streets, and colonial houses built with walls of Incan stone. There you can find the 12 Angles Stone, Plaza la Armas and finally Qorikancha (Sun temple), the sacred centre of the Incan world.
There is heaps to see depending on what time your flight arrives. But don't fret if you're short on time because tomorrow you'll be taken on a guided tour to see the best of Cusco!
Later in the evening you'll be greeted by your guide to discuss the trip and have your welcome dinner.
Night to relax and chill in and around Cusco.
Accommodation: Hotel in Cusco (Tikka Wasi or similar)
Time to explore magical Cusco!
This beautiful city has an interesting history, both from Incan and colonial times. You start this half-day tour in Cusco’s main square, which was called Huacaypata (Warriors Square) by the Incas. While the guide tells you more about the history of this special place, you can admire the city’s cathedral that was built between 1560 and 1664 with the red granite stones from the Inca Fortress of Sacsayhuaman.
The cathedral is, without doubt, one of the most impressive buildings in Cusco, and not only from the outside: the historical buildings hosts one of the most significant collections of gold and silver work of the colonial period. Next, you continue to Koricancha and the Convent of Santo Domingo. The convent was built on top of the most important Inca temple dedicated to the worship of the sun, with walls covered with gold leaf. Wandering through the streets of what once was the capital of the Inca Empire, you feel like you are travelling through time.
After exploring Cusco, you will head to the nearby Incan ruins, such as the Sacsayhuaman Fortress with its immense temple walls made out of huge stones. The Living Stones of Sacsayhuamana which were built by the Incas have been placed without glue or mortar of any kind, and fit so exactly, like puzzle pieces, that you can't even fit a sheet of paper between them! It's a mystery how they built these HUGE vast structures so perfectly. You think Stone Henge is a mystery?! - The stones here make our henge look like pebbles thrown on the floor. You'll also check out the red fort Puca Pucara; the Qenko Amphitheater, and Tambomachay - the Inca baths. This is a great day to not only learn more about the Incan culture and it's history but also to explore the REAL Cusco. You'll be buzzing from your time spent in the ancient city of Cusco that you'll need to prise yourself away from conversation to make it to bed! Accommodation: Hotel in Cusco (Tikka Wasi or similar)
Today is a real treat as we head out on our first trek of the trip to an area just outside of Cusco.
We will trek from 3750m to 4400m before dropping back down to Cusco later that evening. This is part of our tried and tested ‘Hike high, sleep low’ strategy that’s enabled our EverTrekkers to get used to the altitude on all of our treks.
You'll be on the trails for around 8hours trekking through mountain passes, fields, lakes and small Peruvian settlements. Once reaching the high point at 4400m, we'll spend a bit of time here so your body can feel the altitude which will pay dividends over the next few days when you're trekking on the Inca Trail.
One epic acclimatisation day!
Accommodation: Hotel in Cusco (Tikka Wasi or similar)
The Journey Starts here!
We'll get up early and have your breakfast on the go as we take the spectacular early morning drive through the Sacred Valley of the Incas. Once we cross the bridge and hit the trails, you'll step onto one of the most famous and historic treks on the planet. The Inca Trail!
Today's route will take us along the Urubamba river, passing Inca farming terraces with the towering peaks above providing company for the journey along the valley. It's slow and steady today but we'll climb the steep paths to the first awesome viewpoint and the archaeological site of the Inca ruins of Llaqtapata.
We'll spend some time here learning about the location and the history of the place before we continue the trek to the last inhabited village on the trail and the first camping site of Wayllabamba.
Ascent: 275 m / Highest altitude: 2931 m / Distance: 11 Km / Activity duration: 6 hrs
Accommodation: tent
We start early as we climb the steep section and path to Warmiwañusca (aka Dead Woman’s Pass.)
This is the highest point of the Inca Trail trek at 4,198m (13,769 ft). The trail traverses an open slope opposite mighty mountain crags as you climb up and up. The Inca steps seen here are something to behold and once on top of the high pass the views of the sweeping snow-capped peaks of the Huayanay massif are something special.
The plan for our EverTrekkers is to reach the camp at the bottom of Pacaymayo valley by early afternoon with heaps of time to sit back, rest and get ready for the next day's trekking.
Ascent: 1263 m / Descent: 607 m / Highest altitude: 4194 m / Distance: 10 Km / Activity duration: 7 hrs
Accommodation: tent
You'll start another early day as we ascend up a steep Inca stairway and pass our first Inca site of the day at Runkuracay.
We'll then climb over another high pass named after this site, Runkuracay mountain pass (3,954 m). The views from this vantage point are superb with the mountains above and the valley below so get that camera out and start clicking away.
You'll descend to another Inca ruin called Sayacmarca or “Inaccessible Town” (3,597 m). This place is awesome with an intricate labyrinth of houses, plazas and water channels, perched precariously on a rocky spur overlooking the Aobamba valley below.
This is where you really start to appreciate the creation of this awesome stone trail with these huge granite paving stones guiding you through the forest and mountain valley. It's really something to behold and experience as you realise where you are!
As the day continues you'll climb your third mountain pass of Phuyupayamarca pass (3,656 m) where you'll enjoy the views from the Incan viewing platforms overlooking the archaeological site of Phuyupatamarca or “Cloud-level Town”. You really are in the clouds as the mist comes off the mountainsides during the late morning.
The final Incan stairway of the day leads us to the campsite for the night at the ruins of Wiñay Wayna or “Forever Young” (2,720 m) which is one of the largest and most exquisite of the Inca Trail sites. Enjoy some time exploring before settling down for the big and early day tomorrow
Ascent to Runkuracay pass: 367 m / Descent to Sayacmarca: 357 m / Ascent to Phuyupayamarca: 59 m / Descent to Wiñay Wayna: 975 m / Highest altitude: 3,954 m / Distance: 11,1 Km / Activity duration: 8 hrs
Accommodation: tent
It's a super early start as we aim to reach the awesome Intipunku 'Sun Gate'
We will aim to get there for sunrise so we'll get up at 3:30am, grab a bite to eat then trek between 2-3 hours to one of the best views of Machu Picchu. If you've ever seen any images of Machu Picchu you will know the 'Classic Signature' shot from above. This is where you'll come out and enjoy the awesome views of the famous citadel below.
Once we are here we'll have a couple of hours to explore the ruins themselves. It's surreal being in the place walking amongst the old houses and courtyards and wondering how the heck did they build all of this with the technology they had at the time. It really is something to behold.
Once we have the tour of Machu Picchu, we'll get the bus down to Aguas Calientes and take the cool train ride to the cute village of Ollantaytambo where we will stay for the night in a hotel.
What a day! A HUGE tick off the bucket list and I guarantee you'll be digging your way through Wikipedia to learn about the Incans and Machu Picchu. The place certainly leaves it's mark on you and memories that will last a lifetime.
Ascent: 29 m / Descent: 290 m / Highest altitude: 2710 m / Distance: 5 Km / Activity duration: 3 h
Train Ride - 1 1/2 Hours Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo.
Accommodation: Hotel in Ollantaytambo
After a wholesome breakfast, your guide will pick you up at your hotel in Ollantaytambo and you will head to the famous Ollantaytambo Ruins in the Sacred Valley.
This is an awesome place to hike around for the day and pick up some cool souvenirs!
You'll visit Hanan Huacaypata, one of the best-preserved parts of this Inca territory as well as the colourful Pisac Andean market which offers you deeper insights into the local culture, while enjoying the traditional clothing of the people of this region which attracts thousands of visitors from remote villagers in the area.
Elevation: Ollantaytambo (2792 m) - Cusco (3400 m)
Accommodation: Hotel in Cusco (Tikka Wasi or similar)
You've had an incredible journey, you've probably made some awesome new friends and you've got a bucket load of stories to tell the folks at home about your adventures!
The adventure is over but the memories will last a lifetime. On this day, we will transfer you back to Cusco airport for your homeward journey.
Want to extend your adventure?
Once your trek is finished, why not add on our 2 day Rainbow Mountain Extension?
Want to read more about this incredible extension? View the full itinerary here!
Or if you’re looking for something more relaxing, try the serene and awe-inspiring Lake Titicaca extension.
Want to read more about this incredible extension? View the full itinerary here!
Departure Dates & Prices
Sunday 18th May 2025 –
Monday 26th May 2025
£1,800pp
Sold out
Saturday 24th May 2025 –
Monday 02nd June 2025
£2,600pp
Sold out
Sunday 15th June 2025 –
Monday 23rd June 2025
£1,800pp
Sold out
Saturday 12th July 2025 –
Sunday 20th July 2025
£2,600pp
Sold out
Saturday 19th July 2025 –
Sunday 27th July 2025
£1,800pp
Sold out
Saturday 09th August 2025 –
Monday 18th August 2025
£2,600pp
Sold out
Saturday 23rd August 2025 –
Sunday 31st August 2025
£1,800pp
Sold out
Saturday 06th September 2025 –
Sunday 14th September 2025
£2,600pp
Sold out
Saturday 20th September 2025 –
Sunday 28th September 2025
£1,800pp
Sold out
Saturday 23rd May 2026 –
Sunday 31st May 2026
£1,900pp
OR £189 / 9 months
Limited – only 4 spaces available
Saturday 13th June 2026 –
Sunday 21st June 2026
£1,900pp
OR £170 / 10 months
10 spaces available
Saturday 11th July 2026 –
Sunday 19th July 2026
£1,900pp
OR £155 / 11 months
12 spaces available
Saturday 08th August 2026 –
Sunday 16th August 2026
£1,900pp
OR £142 / 12 months
7 spaces available
Saturday 05th September 2026 –
Sunday 13th September 2026
£1,900pp
OR £131 / 13 months
Limited – only 1 space available
Saturday 19th September 2026 –
Sunday 27th September 2026
£1,900pp
OR £131 / 13 months
5 spaces available
Saturday 15th May 2027 –
Sunday 23rd May 2027
£2,000pp
OR £100 / 18 months
9 spaces available
Saturday 14th August 2027 –
Sunday 22nd August 2027
£2,000pp
OR £100 / 18 months
11 spaces available
Saturday 11th September 2027 –
Sunday 19th September 2027
£2,000pp
OR £100 / 18 months
10 spaces available
Food & Accommodation
At EverTrek, we believe that great food and a comfortable night’s rest are essential to making your Inca Trail adventure truly unforgettable.
Here’s what you can expect on your journey to Machu Picchu...
Food
Throughout the trip, meals are freshly prepared to keep your energy high and spirits even higher. While in Cusco and Ollantaytambo, you’ll enjoy breakfasts and evening meals at the hotel or in local restaurants where you can sample some fantastic Peruvian cuisine.
Once you’re on the Inca Trail, you’ll be looked after by our experienced cooks who serve up hearty breakfasts, nutritious packed lunches, and three-course dinners each evening at the campsites. Meals are designed to give you the right balance of carbohydrates, proteins, and fats to fuel your trekking days, with plenty of options for vegetarians and special dietary requirements where needed (please let us know in advance).
The food on this trek surprises a lot of people - in a good way. You’ll be eating fresh, locally sourced meals cooked by our dedicated camp chefs, and the variety they manage to produce at altitude is genuinely impressive.
Three Hot Meals a Day: Our chefs prepare everything from scratch - we’re talking full breakfasts, proper hot lunches, and hearty dinners to keep you going day after day. You won’t be going hungry on this trek.
Typical Meals:
Breakfast: Porridge, pancakes, scrambled eggs, bread, jam, fruit, and hot drinks to get you going before the day’s hike.
Lunch: Usually served hot at a scenic stop. Expect rice or quinoa, stews with lentils or chicken, salads, vegetables, and fresh fruit for dessert.
Dinner: The evening meal is a multi-course affair with soup to start, a main dish like trout with rice or vegetable curry, and something sweet to finish. The chefs even manage to bake cakes on the mountain for special occasions.
Snacks: You’ll be given trail snacks daily - biscuits, fruit, and sweets. It’s also a good idea to bring your own favourite snacks from home for the tougher days.
Drinks & Water: Boiled and filtered drinking water is provided at every meal stop. Coca tea and other herbal infusions are common and help with acclimatisation. Soft drinks and beer are sometimes available at local villages along the route, but they’re not always guaranteed. During the trek, drinking water is provided, boiled and purified by our team to ensure it’s safe for consumption.
Dietary Needs: Vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free? No problem. Just let us know in advance and we’ll make sure the chefs have everything they need to look after you properly.
Accommodation
Here’s where you’ll rest your head each night:
- In Cusco and Ollantaytambo: You’ll stay in handpicked 3* standard hotels (such as Tikka Wasi or similar), offering comfortable twin-share rooms with private bathrooms and hot showers.
- On the Inca Trail: Accommodation will be in high-quality two-person tents, pitched and taken down each day by our support crew. Sleeping mats are provided, and you can hire a sleeping bag if you need one. Campsites are chosen for their views and location to keep you close to the trail while still feeling immersed in the wild surroundings.
Accommodation is based on twin-share as standard. If you would prefer your own room or tent, a single supplement is available - please let us know when booking.
Here’s a quick look at your accommodation and meals across the trip:
Day |
Location |
Accommodation |
Meals Included |
|
1 |
Cusco |
Hotel (Tikka Wasi or similar) |
Dinner |
|
2 |
Cusco |
Hotel (Tikka Wasi or similar) |
Breakfast, Dinner |
|
3 |
Cusco |
Hotel (Tikka Wasi or similar) |
Breakfast, Lunch |
|
4 |
Wayllabamba (Campsite) |
Tent |
Lunch, Dinner |
|
5 |
Pacaymayo (Campsite) |
Tent |
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner |
|
6 |
Wiñay Wayna (Campsite) |
Tent |
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner |
|
7 |
Ollantaytambo |
Hotel |
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner |
|
8 |
Cusco |
Hotel (Tikka Wasi or similar) |
Breakfast |
|
9 |
Departure Day |
No accommodation provided |
Breakfast |
Trip Extensions
Enhance your adventure with our range of trip extensions.
Rainbow Mountain Trip Extension
Rainbow Mountain stands as an incredible natural marvel soaring to a staggering 5200 meters. For us at EverTrek HQ, it’s like a playground for Yetis, offering an ideal blend of high altitude, vibrant landscapes, and thrilling adventures!
Experience Rainbow Mountain
The scenery in this entire region is truly something extraordinary. It’s not just Rainbow Mountain itself that’s spectacular; the surrounding landscapes are equally breathtaking. With sweeping views of the Andes and glaciers cascading down colossal mountain valleys, the panorama is simply awe-inspiring. Along the way, keep your eyes peeled for classic Peruvian wildlife like llamas and alpacas, all eager to strike a pose for that perfect tongues-out selfie.
Thinking this add-on might just be your next big Peruvian upgrade? We hope so!
Select your extension at checkout, or if you’ve already booked your trip just give us a call at 02920 003216, and we’ll take care of the rest.
Lake Titicaca Trip Extension
Embark on an unforgettable journey and delve deeper into the mesmerizing beauty of Peru by extending your adventure to the serene and awe-inspiring Lake Titicaca. As the largest lake in South America and the highest navigable lake in the world, Lake Titicaca sits at an altitude of 3,812m and offers an experience like no other. Marvel at the crystal-clear waters and immerse yourself in the captivating cultural heritage of the Uros people, who reside on the famous floating islands made entirely from reeds harvested from the lake.
The Wonders of Lake Titicaca
This incredible add-on is the perfect way to unwind and relax after your Machu Picchu trek. Discover a different side of the Andes as you journey to Lake Titicaca, where you’ll witness stunning landscapes and enjoy a more leisurely pace of travel. Explore the fascinating Uros floating islands and interact with the welcoming locals, gaining insight into their unique way of life.
So why not enhance your adventure and embark on this enriching extension to Lake Titicaca? You’ll come away with unforgettable memories and a newfound appreciation for the natural beauty and cultural richness of this incredible country.
Thinking this add-on might just be your next big Peruvian upgrade? We hope so!
Select your extension at checkout, or if you’ve already booked your trip just give us a call at 02920 003216, and we’ll take care of the rest.
FAQs
The Machu Picchu via Inca Trail Trek with EverTrek costs between £2,150 and £2,250, depending on your chosen departure year. This includes a 10-day itinerary (with 5 days trekking on the Inca Trail), accommodation before and after the trek, all camping equipment, permits (including your Inca Trail permit and Machu Picchu entry), meals while trekking, a guided tour of Machu Picchu, and full support from our experienced local guides and crew. International flights to Cusco, travel insurance, tips, and some meals in Cusco are not included.
EverTrek uses the world-famous Classic Inca Trail Route to reach Machu Picchu. The Inca Trail is Peru’s most iconic trek, taking you along ancient stone paths through cloud forests, alpine passes, and past stunning Incan ruins before reaching Machu Picchu through the famous Sun Gate (Inti Punku). Due to the limited permits, it’s essential to book well in advance to secure your space.
This trek is classed as challenging. You’ll need a good level of fitness to hike 5–8 hours per day, sometimes at high altitudes up to around 4,215m at Dead Woman’s Pass. Prior trekking experience is helpful but not essential. Good stamina, strong legs, and a steady hiking pace will really help you enjoy the experience.
Training should focus on:
- Cardiovascular fitness (running, hiking, cycling, swimming)
- Leg and core strength (strength training, weighted hiking)
- Building endurance with long hikes carrying a pack
We recommend training 4–5 times a week for at least 2–3 months before the trek.
Joining one of our UK-based training weekends (such as in Snowdonia or the Brecon Beacons) is a great way to meet the EverTrek team and prepare both physically and mentally.
You won't need much during the trek itself, as all meals, camping equipment, permits, and guiding services are included. However, you may want to bring some cash for snacks, drinks in Cusco, souvenirs, or to tip the local team at the end of the trek.
While on the Inca Trail itself there are no proper showers, so we recommend bringing wet wipes, biodegradable soap, and a flannel to stay clean. While staying in Cusco before and after the trek, you will have access to hot showers and full hotel facilities. During the trek, warm water will be provided daily by the team so you can have a basic wash each morning.
The best trekking seasons are:
- April to October – The dry season, offering the most stable weather, clear skies, and great trekking conditions.
The Inca Trail is closed every year in February for maintenance, and we recommend avoiding the wettest months of November to March if possible.
Tipping is customary and greatly appreciated by the hardworking trekking crew. We recommend budgeting around 10% of your total trip cost. For a trip priced between £2,150 and £2,250, a tip of approximately £215–£225 is appropriate, to be shared fairly between your guides, cooks, and porters. Your lead guide will assist with arranging the group tipping at the end of the trek.
As you'll be trekking at altitudes up to 4,215m, managing altitude sickness is important. To minimise the risk:
- Follow the gradual ascent itinerary and allow time to acclimatise
- Drink 3–4 litres of water per day
- Avoid alcohol and smoking before and during the trek
- Be aware of early symptoms: headache, nausea, dizziness, loss of appetite
- Consider taking Diamox if recommended by your GP
- Always communicate openly with your guide if you feel unwell, early action is key
Yes, your main duffel bag must not exceed 7kg. You will also carry your own daypack with daily essentials such as water, snacks, rain gear, and warm clothing layers. Any extra luggage can be securely stored at your hotel in Cusco while you are on the trek.
