Ultimate Inca Trail
Ultimate Inca Trail
Ultimate Inca Trail
6 Days Starting and ending in Cuzco
Visiting: Cusco, Lares Valley, Ollantaytambo, Inca Trail, Machu Picchu
Tour Overview
See the Andes and then some on this incredible Inca extravaganza. Conquer the Lares Valley Trek and the Inca Trail (plus Machu Picchu) in 6 jaw-droppingly splendid days. Visit some of the most isolated communities in Latin America. Absorb yourself in a world of ancient cities, glacial lakes, waterfalls and mountain views. Plus ancient hot springs. And LOTS of llamas.
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1: Start Cusco
Location: Cusco
Accommodation Name: Xima Hotel Cusco (or similar)
Welcome to Cusco! You'll meet your fellow Inca Trail adventurers today, before spending the morning on a city walking tour to get orientated. Then it's time to explore Cusco your way. With artisan shops, colonial architecture and delicious local cuisine, you'll be spoilt for choice. You could also use this time to grab any last-minute items before your trek…how many socks DOES one person need?
Day 2: Cusco To Lares Valley Trek
Location: Cusco, Lares Valley
Accommodation Name: Inca Trail Camping
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Rise and shine, Inca explorers! Today is all about the Lares Valley adventure vibes - after we leave Cusco bright and early. We’ll start the trek by making our way to Cancha Cancha, with a spot of lunch along the way – enjoyed by the river and prepared by the trekking chef (oh yeah!). Over 12,000 feet high, say hello to an isolated and traditional community that’s sustained itself for hundreds of years. They introduced electricity in winter 2019, but there are still no roads. Tonight, after we’ve pitched our tents, you’ll have the chance to visit a local family and learn all about life in a traditional Andean village. Your guide will be on hand to interpret, and after dinner, you’ll be treated (even further) to the great Inca constellations – which the locals still use for agricultural guidance to this day.
Day 3: Lares Valley Trek
Location: Lares Valley
Accommodation Name: Inca Trail Camping
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
To the summit we go! (But not before another delicious brekky.) Today’s 7-hour hike will be peppered with true Andean delights – glaciers, lakes, alpacas, rugged valleys and spectacular mountain vistas. Eyes on the sky for the Caracara falcons and Andean geese!After we reach the summit (plus take pics and pat ourselves on the back), we’ll visit the Quiswarani community on our way back down – watch out for more llamas along the way. . The local indigenous people will open their homes and hearts to us, and we’ll even get the chance to learn Quechua – the language of the Incas. Tonight, we arrive at the spectacular seven waterfalls, where everything will be ready for you at the campsite. You. Are. Welcome.
Day 4: Lares Valley Trek To Ollantaytambo
Location: Lares Valley, Ollantaytambo
Accommodation Name: Inca Trail Camping
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Guess what? The best scenery is still to come! Today we’ll head to Willqaqasa Pass, where we’ll be treated to views of the Colquecruz and Pitusiray mountains, plus a bird’s eye view of mountains reflected in glacial lakes. Further along the trail, you’ll visit the Cucani community, connecting with the local indigenous children – with the opportunity to visit their school. Next, it’s time to bathe like nature intended at the Lares Hot Springs (3,100m/ 10,170ft), with one whole hour to soak in the natural volcanic hot springs, have lunch and just… relaxxxx. This afternoon we’ll travel to Ollantaytambo, where we’ll enjoy a sumptuous dinner together and then rest our heads in the hotel. Tomorrow is the big one, so you’ll want to be fresh.
Day 5: Ollantaytambo To Cusco Via Machu Picchu And Inca Trail Trek
Location: Ollantaytambo, Inca Trail, Machu Picchu, Cusco
Accommodation Name: Xima Hotel Cusco (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
We’ll start bright and early today, with VERY good reason. Our first stop is the train station, where we’ll board the Inca express to… you guessed it, the Inca trail. Epic scenery incoming. With heavy hearts, we’ll alight at the famous Km104, where our hike begins – 6,000 feet above sea level! Our first Inca site lies waiting for us after crossing the Urubamba river on a picturesque foot bridge. Beginning with the Sun Gate, and a truly breathtaking view of Machu Picchu. Don’t worry, we have plenty of time to absorb this actual Wonder of the World. So take your time. Savour the moment. Take lots of pics. To make things better, we’re visiting in the afternoon which is when the site is usually empty of other tourists. Our guide will give us a full tour, so you’ll see all the most important parts of Machu Picchu – with minimal hassle. Once we’re done, we’ll take the bus to Aguas Calientes. Then it’s back to Cusco (via Ollantaytambo) to go to sleep as better, more well rounded people with ticks on our bucket lists and cheesy grins on our faces.
Day 6: End Cusco
Location: Cusco
Meals Included: Breakfast
And today the Inca adventure ends. Llama just say… It's been a life changing experience for us all, and we can’t wait to do it again.
What's Included
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Accommodations
Stay in a mix of Selina Saphi (or similar) and Inca Trail Camping, offering a blend of comfort and adventure.
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Meals
Enjoy various meals prepared by a trekking chef, including breakfasts, lunches, and dinners, showcasing local cuisine.
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Guided Tours
Experience guided tours of Cusco, the Lares Valley, and the iconic Machu Picchu, including a visit to the Sun Gate for breathtaking views.
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Transport
Includes all transport between trek locations, including train to the Inca trail and bus to Aguas Calientes.
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Cultural Experiences
Visit local Andean communities, learn about traditional life, and even learn some Quechua - the language of the Incas.
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Hiking and Trekking
Embark on the unforgettable Inca Trail hike, exploring ancient sites and enjoying the natural beauty of Peru.
What's Not Included
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Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is not included and is recommended for all travelers to ensure that they are covered for any unforeseen events.
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Personal Expenses
Any personal expenses such as souvenirs, additional snacks, or activities outside of the planned itinerary are not covered.
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Tips and Gratuities
Tips for guides and staff are not included in the price and are at the discretion of the traveler.
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International Flights
International flights to and from the start/end location are not included.
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Visa Fees
Any applicable visa fees are not included and are the responsibility of the traveler.
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Entrance Fees
Entrance fees to certain attractions or national parks not mentioned in the itinerary are excluded.
Dining Summary
- 5 Breakfast (B)
- 4 Lunch (L)
- 4 Dinner (D)
Active
- Cusco: It’s always best to hang out with someone who knows the trail inside out. That way, we can concentrate on taking epic pics.
Culture
- Cusco: Your chance to pick up some mementos at San Pedro Markets and then see Cusco Cathedral, San Blas and Coricancha.
- Cusco: Woo hoo! We’re getting all starry-eyed as we talk to the rest of the Contiki crew about the life-changing moment we’re about to experience.
Included Experience
- Cusco: Your chance to pick up some mementos at San Pedro Markets and then see Cusco Cathedral, San Blas and Coricancha.
- Cusco: It’s always best to hang out with someone who knows the trail inside out. That way, we can concentrate on taking epic pics.
- Cusco: Woo hoo! We’re getting all starry-eyed as we talk to the rest of the Contiki crew about the life-changing moment we’re about to experience.
- Cusco: We??ve got your back when it comes to organising all the camping stuff. So just bring your fabulous self and a cosy sleeping bag (and maybe some Pringles).
- Machu Picchu: It’s the moment you’ve been waiting for! Time to explore the Incan citadel with your new Contiki fam. #travelgoals
Landmarks
- Machu Picchu: It’s the moment you’ve been waiting for! Time to explore the Incan citadel with your new Contiki fam. #travelgoals
Check out our Q&As
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What countries will I visit on the Ultimate Inca Trail tour?
You will visit Peru on the Ultimate Inca Trail tour.
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What are the highlights of the Ultimate Inca Trail tour?
The highlights of the Ultimate Inca Trail tour include exploring Cusco and its attractions like San Pedro Markets, Cusco Cathedral, San Blas, and Coricancha; visiting Machu Picchu; enjoying the views in Lares Valley; and beginning the Inca Trail hike.
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What type of activities are included in the Ultimate Inca Trail tour?
Activities included in the Ultimate Inca Trail tour are small group tours, history exploration, hiking, trekking, and walking.
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What type of accommodations are provided on the Ultimate Inca Trail tour?
Accommodations on the Ultimate Inca Trail tour include a mix of Selina Saphi (or similar) and Inca Trail Camping, offering a blend of comfort and adventure.
-
What meals are included in the Ultimate Inca Trail tour?
The Ultimate Inca Trail tour includes various meals prepared by a trekking chef, including breakfasts, lunches, and dinners, showcasing local cuisine.
-
Are there any guided tours included in the Ultimate Inca Trail tour?
Yes, the Ultimate Inca Trail tour includes guided tours of Cusco, the Lares Valley, and the iconic Machu Picchu, including a visit to the Sun Gate for breathtaking views.
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What transport is included in the Ultimate Inca Trail tour?
The tour includes all transport between trek locations, including train to the Inca trail and bus to Aguas Calientes.
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What cultural experiences are included in the Ultimate Inca Trail tour?
Cultural experiences on the Ultimate Inca Trail tour include visiting local Andean communities, learning about traditional life, and even learning some Quechua - the language of the Incas.
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What is not included in the Ultimate Inca Trail tour?
Exclusions from the Ultimate Inca Trail tour include travel insurance, personal expenses, tips and gratuities, international flights, visa fees, and entrance fees to certain attractions or national parks not mentioned in the itinerary.
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Where does the Ultimate Inca Trail tour start and end?
The Ultimate Inca Trail tour starts and ends in Cusco.
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How long has the tour company been trading?
In 1961, a guy called John Anderson founded Contiki in New Zealand. Whilst later bought by The Travel Corporation, the tour company had already been using the name ‘Contiki’ since its inception.
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Who will be my travelling companions on the tour?
Contiki trips are designed & operated exclusively for those aged 18-35 years. Your travelling companions will be like-minded adventurers within that age range. The age range is adhered to strictly.
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What policies are in place for Covid-19?
Please contact us for latest COVID-19 policies
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Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?
Yes
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What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?
MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® is our commitment to protect people, wildlife and the incredible planet we all share. Powered by The TreadRight Foundation, a non-profit organisation and Contiki’s guiding hand when it comes to making travel matter.
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What documents will I receive before I travel?
All documentation will be sent via email around 21 days prior to your trip departure. You can also access information on your trip by signing up to My Contiki via the top right icon of the homepage.
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Transfer as credit to Future Tours
Contiki allows you to transfer existing payments to a future tour to avoid cancellation fees if you can't travel and inform contiki, 60 days before departure.
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Low Deposit
Contiki requires a minimum deposit of 200 USD per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 60 days before departure.
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of contiki charges.
Up to 61 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 60 days before tour starts: Forfeit 25% of booking price.
At 21 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.
At 7 days before tour starts: Forfeit 75% of booking price.
At 1 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.
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