In the Footsteps of the Incas

Trip at a Glance

Trip Code: EBAIT10
Trip Duration: 10 Days
Trip difficulty Moderate
Trip Starts at: Lima
Trip Ends at: Lima
Best time to travel: March-November
Accommodations: 6 nights hotel, 3 nights camping
Highlights: Inca Trail hiking, Machu Picchu, Cusco, Sacred Valley

Cost Details

$2190

Price Per Person (High season)

$380

Single Suppliment

Enquiry Now Reserve Tour

Overview

Walk in the footsteps of the Inca on one of the world’s most famous and popular hike, the Inca Trail. The 4-day Inca Trail trek is an exciting, high mountain experience where we climb up to 4200 meters, passing glacier covered peaks and descending into lush cloud forest. We will tour Cusco and the Sacred Valley, and acclimatize for our hike, exploring the Incas site of the Sacred valley, visiting Andean markets. Then we will embark on our pilgrimage to Machu Picchu via the Inca trail. Return by trail to Cusco.

Itinerary

Day 03

Cusco – Tour

Half-day tour of this ancient city where you can see the Quechua speaking descendents of the Incas walking the streets of this ancient city. Explore the nearby sites of the fortress like Sacsayhuamán ruins, overlooking the city. We will tour the Sun temple, Coricancha. (B)

Day 04

Sacred Valley Tour

Short bus ride to the Sacred Valley of the Inca’s. We will explore the sites of Moray, roam the markets of Pisac and admire the terrasses of Ollatatambo. In the afternoon we will check into our hotel. (B, L)

Day 05

Cusco - Km 82 - Wayllabamba

The Inca Trail offers travelers a stunning variety of scenery, including dramatic snow-covered peaks, cloud forests, deep river canyons and finally, the amazing Inca ruins. More than 220 species of orchid have been found in the Machu Picchu Historical Sanctuary, as well as 400 species of birds, from tiny hummingbirds to the magnificent condor. Hiking this trail requires a reasonable level of fitness, but age doesn’t matter! The most important factor is acclimatizing to the altitude.

We will pick you up at your hotel in Cusco between 6:00 AM and 6:20 AM to go to Ollantaytambo and from there to Km 82 where we will meet the Quechua porters and have breakfast. You can buy things that you may have forgotten, such as a walking cane, water, and rain ponchos, as well as use the last real washroom for a while. We start walking from Km 82 to Wayllabamba; a quite level and beautiful walk along the Urubamba River with a view of Mt. Veronica’s snowcapped peak at 5,750 m/18,860 ft. Here we pass several villages where residents still build their houses with traditional ichu grass roofs. We can see the famous tuna cactus—some with the cuchinilla louse—famous for its amazingly powerful clothes dye. We’ll rest on a hill overlooking Llactapata – an important agricultural area for the Incas. After Llactapata, we hike up the valley along the Kusichaca River. Here we have a good chance of seeing hummingbirds in the flower bushes. We arrive at the village of Wayllabamba in the afternoon and camp here. (L, D)

Day 06

Wayllabamba – Pacaymayo

We climb the steep-sided Llullucha Valley past a rushing stream and through enchanted native polylepis woodland. Crossing the rim of a small plateau, we abruptly find ourselves in the puna, the treeless grasslands of the high Andes. The trail traverses an open slope opposite mighty mountain crags as we ascend to the first and highest pass, Warmiwañusca (4,200m/13,776ft). Here we encounter spectacular views of the trail ahead to the second pass, and look back to the sweeping snow peaks and valleys of the Huayanay massif. Camp at Pacaymayo Valley. (B, L, D)

Day 07

Pacaymayo – Wiñay Wayna

We pick up an Inca stairway and ascend to the small Inca site of Runkuracay. As we reach the second pass, the landscape opens into spectacular new views of the snow peaks of the Pumasillo range. We descend to the ruins of Sayacmarca (Inaccessible Town), an intricate labyrinth of houses, plazas, and water channels, perched precariously on a rocky spur overlooking the Aobamba valley. The Inca trail, now a massive buttressed structure of granite paving stones, continues along the steep upper fringes of the cloud forest through a colorful riot of orchids, bromeliads, mosses, and ferns. At the third pass, pinnacles topped with Inca viewing platforms overlook the archaeological complex of Phuyupatamarca (Cloud-Level Town). Pausing to explore the wondrous maze of Inca stone towers, fountains, and stairways that spill down the mountainside, we begin a long descent through ever-changing layers of cloud forest. An Inca stairway partly cut from living granite leads us finally to our camp by the ruins of Wiñay Wayna (Forever Young), the largest and most exquisite of the Inca Trail sites. (B, L, D)

Day 08

Wiñay Wayna to Machu Picchu

We leave camp very early to reach Inti Punku in time for sunrise. From here we get the first glance of Machu Picchu between the mountains on its saddle high over the Urubamba River. We meet at Machu Picchu at a decided hour to make the tour of Machu Picchu. We will learn about the importance – religious and historical– of the place, and we will be able to appreciate the fine architecture of the Incas. After the guided tour, you can go to the top of Wayna Picchu for a spectacular view of Machu Picchu. Another possibility is to visit the beautiful Temple of the Moon. In the afternoon we meet in Aguas Calientes and check into our hotel. (B)

Gears List

Passport
Change of clothes/shorts, T- shirt, long pants, long sleeve shirts socks, and underwear
Backpack or duffle bag
Warm clothing/thermals
Trekking shoes
Sandals (after hikes)
Raincoat
Sunscreen
Flashlight
Insect repellent
Bottled water
Personal first aid kit
Bathing suit and towel
Hat
Sunglasses
Camera, film and batteries

Cost Includes

Accommodations: 6 nights at 3 stars superior hotels, 3 camping nights
All transfers from the airports to hotels
Airfare Lima/Cusco/Lima
Pick up from your hotel to Km 82
Large 3-person tent for 2 people
Kitchen tent, dining tent, latrine tent
Tables and chairs
Cook and cooking equipment
Porters to carry group equipments
English speaking guide
Oxygen tank
All meals as in itinerary: 9 – Breakfast, 4 – Lunch, 3 – Dinner
Sleeping bag/mat ($30 refundable deposit)
All fees for the Inca train and entrance to Machu Picchu
Bus down to Aguas Calientes
Train ticket to Cusco (Vistadome train)
Transfer to your hotel

Cost Excluded

Breakfast at your hotel
Lunch at Aguas Calientes
International airfare
Tips, tax, and personal expenses
Dinner on last day
International departure tax-$33, local departure tax-$12

Gallery

Featured Hotels

We at Earthbound Adventures carefully choose hotels that are safe, clean and ideally located, we stay in charming locally owned 3 stars hotels with great and friendly service. We go to great length to make sure the hotel are up to our high standard, we personally visited each and every hotel on our list and we are constantly evaluating the hotels we stay in.

We are listing 4 and 5 stars hotels, if you choose to upgrade your hotel an additional fee will apply to the tours according to the hotels you choose.

Casa Andina San Blas Hotel

Five blocks from Cusco’s Main Square and tucked away in the artsy neighborhood of San Blas, the colonial Casa Andina San Blas hotel features a charming courtyard and a view of the Inca city from almost all its rooms as well as its central lobby. The bar and chimney complement the hotel’s Cusqueñan colonial architecture and make Casa Andina San Blas one of the most cozy and inviting hotels in town. Delicious Novoandino cuisine is served in the hotel’s excellent rustic restaurant. All rooms are comfortable, tastefully decorated with warm colors, and equipped with all modern amenities. Here, visitors will find friendly staff providing an excellent and personalized service.
http://www.casa-andina.com
Casa Andina Private Collection Cusco

The Casa Andina Private Collection Cusco is the most recent addition to the renowned Casa Andina Hotels. Built in a large colonial house dating back to the 18th century, the hotel is ideally located in the center of Cusco, just a few blocks from the main square in the direction of Koricancha. Relax in the beautiful courtyard with its gurgling stone fountain, one of Cusco’s emblematic colonial sights, and get lost in the intriguing maze of corridors that lead you to the various patios. Casa Andina’s first upscale hotel in Cusco features 94 heated rooms with private bathrooms, cable television, telephones, hairdryers, and in-room safes. The hotel is equipped with a gourmet restaurant, a bar, 3 courtyards, and offers room service as well as many other excellent amenities. Discover the magic of this beautiful city while staying at Casa Andina Private Collection Cusco, where you will enjoy the warm atmosphere and the outstanding service from the very hospitable and highly qualified staff.
Aranwa Boutique Hotel

The brand new Aranwa Boutique Hotel, opened in October 2010, is operated by Aranwa Hotels Resorts & Spas, one of the most luxurious hotel chains in Peru, known for their careful attention to their clients’ well-being. Probably the best value luxury accommodation in Cusco, this elegant 5-star hotel is housed in a converted 16th century mansion and is decorated with colonial era furniture, impressive paintings from the Cusco school, and colonial gold-leaf plated carvings and sculptures. This boutique hotel is conveniently located right behind Plaza San Francisco, a new upscale neighborhood away from the hustle and bustle of Cusco’s main square. With each room boasting an oxygen system and a variety of soothing spa treatments available, this just may be the best place to acclimatize to the high altitude in Cusco in a most comfortable setting.
http://www.aranwahotels.com/
Allpa Hotel & Suites

Opened in July 2010, is located in the heart of the popular Miraflores neighborhood and close to many of the main attractions in Lima. Comfortable, chic, and convenient, this smart hotel is an excellent option for savvy travelers who want a great value hotel with all the modern amenities. Crisp white walls, cleanliness, and a contemporary touch characterize this modern and minimalist hotel. All rooms are spacious and tastefully decorated, creating a comfortable resting area for guests. Try the excellent Italian restaurant located in the hotel’s lobby.
http://allpahotel.com/
Casa Andina Select Miraflores Hotel

The new Casa Andina Select Miraflores hotel boasts one of the best locations in Lima, only a couple blocks from the vibrant Parque Kennedy and minutes from the ocean front. It’s also right next to the Metropolitano, Lima’s express bus system, allowing easy access to all the most interesting neighborhoods in the city. Thanks to its excellent and modern amenities, the hotel is a great option for both business and leisure travel. Guests will delight in the health center including a gym, spa, and sun terrace with a Jacuzzi. There is also a fully equipped business center with meeting rooms, secretarial support, 4 computers, and high speed wireless Internet. Finally, the bar and restaurants on the rooftop are great places where guests can unwind while tasting some delicious local and international specialties after a long day of sightseeing.
https://www.casa-andina.com/
Casa Andina Private Collection

The Casa Andina Private Collection is ideally located in the heart of the modern Miraflores district, only 2 blocks from Kennedy Park. This luxury hotel boasts an elegant interior decorated in the classic Andean theme, with modern furnishings and rooms offering panoramic views of the bustling commercial and leisure district. Here you will find 148 rooms all fully equipped with modern and comfortable amenities, as well as a gourmet restaurant, coffee shop, heated open-air swimming pool, spa, upscale bar in the lobby, and much more to make your stay in Lima a truly luxurious and unique experience.
https://www.casa-andina.com/
The Country Club Lima Hotel

Nestled in Lima’s prestigious San Isidro district, surrounded by elegant embassies, The Country Club Lima Hotel is a five-star landmark boutique that epitomizes sophistication; and one of the only hotels recognized as a Peruvian national monument. Every detail has been conceived with luxury in mind; ornate chandeliers complement lofty, wood-beam ceilings, and 300 pieces of original artwork – on loan from the Pedro de Osma Museum – adorn the walls. Each of our 83 private luxury rooms and suites are opulent and welcoming, with many featuring exquisite marble bathrooms and deep-soaking Jacuzzis. Enjoy world-class amenities, an award-winning restaurant, and guest privileges at the exclusive Lima Golf Club, all in a setting of warmth and intimacy. The Country Club Lima Hotel invites you – the traveler of discerning taste – to experience the finest that Lima has to offer.
http://www.hotelcountry.com
Machu Picchu Pueblo Hotel

The Machu Picchu Pueblo Hotel is split into a main building and bungalows, emulating a small Andean town. The architecture is Spanish colonial in style with stone archways and red tiled roofs. White walls, red tiles, high windows flanked by exposed beams, and a private veranda, all contribute to make this the perfect place to enjoy your stay at Machu Picchu. Guests can sit on their verandas or walk leisurely along garden paths. The Pueblo is home to 372 species of orchids, 100 species of birds, and 250 species of butterflies. Even if you don’t stay at the Machu Picchu Pueblo Hotel it is well worth a visit. Spend some time wandering the paths or take one of their orchid or bird tours. The hotel offers a wide range of ecotourism activities that promote contact with nature and the local culture. It is also involved in a project to rehabilitate spectacled bears and eventually to release them into the wild.
https://www.inkaterra.com/inkaterra/inkaterra-machu-picchu-pueblo-hotel/the-experience/
Hotel Santuario

This excellent value hotel is located near the Urubamba River in a peaceful and stunning setting. Its collection of benches perched near the riverbanks allows guests to relax while enjoying the spectacular landscape. Each of the 30 rooms comes with cable TV, a safety deposit box, telephone, and private bathroom. This cozy hotel also features comfortable and inviting salon, restaurants, and a bar/pub serving drinks in the evenings to help stave off the Andean chill.
http://www.santuariohotel.com/
Casa Andina Classic Nazca Hotel

Situated right in the heart of downtown Nazca, this 3-star Casa Andina Classic Nazca Hotel offers friendly service, tastefully decorated guestrooms, delicious breakfasts, and a fabulous patio and swimming pool. Consistently rated as one of the top hotels in Nazca based on customer reports, guests rave about the convenience and comfort of this chic hotel.
http://www.casa-andina.com
Hotel Cantayo Spa & Resort

Conveniently situated near the ancient Cantalloc Aqueduct, mysterious Nazca Lines, and breathtaking Cerro Blanco, the Hotel Cantayo Spa & Resort is truly a desert oasis. With breathtaking mountain views, a large swimming pool, luxurious spa, widespread gardens, and spacious rooms featuring Balinese and Tibetan décor, the resort provides a tranquil atmosphere with a rustic style. A special treat, the hotel’s restaurant is the finest in Nazca and serves many indigenous and organic fruits cultivated on the lovely grounds: table grapes, mangoes, avocados, black figs, pomegranates, apples, pears, guanabanas, bananas, cherimoya, and lucuma.
http://www.hotelnuevocantalloc.com/
Taypikala Hotel & Spa

Taypikala Hotel & Spa is located on the outskirts of Puno, in the picturesque town of Chucuito right on the shores of Lake Titicaca. The hotel is an attraction in itself, overlooking the countryside of the altiplano and examples of Aymara agriculture. Its original construction blends in with the local architecture and natural environment. You will notice the relaxed tranquil ambience, and with the world’s highest navigable lake on your doorstep, this is the ideal place to relax.
http://www.peruforless.com/resources/hotels-puno.php
Casa Andina Private Collection Puno

Boasting magnificent views of Lake Titicaca, this upscale hotel in Puno, featuring an amazing gourmet restaurant, bar and terrace, will guarantee you a memorable stay. The traditional Andean architectural theme of Casa Andina Private Collection Puno can best be described as understated elegance, where obvious care has been taken to allow the spectacular surroundings to speak for themselves, rather than detract from them. Rooms are sophisticatedly furnished in a classic but elegant style, and most of them feature attractive wooden balconies from which to admire the spectacular views of Lake Titicaca. With its private dock, this hotel is the perfect launching point for the spectacular Suasi Island where the exceptional sister hotel, Casa Andina Private Collection Suasi, is located.
https://www.casa-andina.com/
The Recoleta Hotel

Urubamba is located to 76 km from Cusco, it is a stunning valley with an incredible scenic beauty, and historical heritage, thanks to its excellent location, it becomes the best starting point to visit Machu Picchu (just an hour and a half by train). The Recoleta Hotel is a historical religious monument built up in the XVII century. This charming Boutique hotel in the Sacred Valley of the Incas was and is the mixed races purest example of the colonial art. The Recoleta Hotel, cautiously remodeled in 2007, has all ascetic, monastic, and magical tradition of an ancient monastery, together with the comfort and technology will make you feel part of the spiritual mysticism of the Sacred Valley of the Incas. The Monasterio de la Recoleta Hotel is nearby the most important ruins of the Sacred Valley of the Incas such as Ollantaytambo, Pisac and Maras Moray. Its convenient location attracts travelers because it is ideal for acclimatization to the Cusco altitude, and for its pleasant climate and low altitude (2.700 m.a.s.l.), 700 m.a.s.l. less than Cuzco.
http://www.hotelessanagustin.com.pe
Aranwa Sacred Valley Hotel

Built on a seventeenth century colonial hacienda, along the tranquil banks of the Vilcanota River, the Aranwa Sacred Valley Hotel is the picture-perfect place for a countryside retreat. The hotel showcases a fusion of minimalist and colonial style rooms and buildings, all surrounded by sweeping views of the breathtakingly beautiful Sacred Valley.
http://www.aranwahotels.com
Casona de Yucay Hotel

Casona de Yucay Hotel, is an old Colonial Home Hacienda built in 1810. Situated in the picturesque village of Yucay, in the heart of the Sacred Valley of the Incas, it is a family owned and run hotel which strives at all time to provide top class service in a homely and friendly atmosphere
http://www.hotelcasonayucay.com