Overview
Duration
Type tour
Difficulty
Altitude
Acomodation
Group size
Embark on a unique 7-day, 6-night journey, the Inca Trail Express, guided by the experienced leaders of Terra Quechua Peru, Raquel and Edwin.
This exceptional journey allows you to explore the hidden treasures of the ancient Inca Trail. It’s a chance to witness nature’s beauty and immerse yourself in the rich history of the region.
Your trip leaders, Raquel and Edwin, are not just guides; they are your companions and experts on this voyage. With their deep knowledge and passion for the Inca Trail, they’ll provide you with insights that make your journey even more enriching.
Take time to disconnect from the fast pace of everyday life and find solace in the serene landscapes that surround you. The Inca Trail Express offers moments of reflection, allowing you to connect with nature and yourself.
Explore the captivating remnants of the Inca civilization as you visit archaeological sites along the trail. Raquel and Edwin will share their expertise, unveiling the mysteries of Machu Picchu and other historical gems.
Inca Trail Express is all about creating an intimate experience. We keep our group sizes small, ensuring you have the opportunity to connect with your fellow travelers and form lasting bonds.
Our commitment to responsible travel means that we respect the environment, support local communities, and follow sustainable trekking practices. When you choose us, you contribute to the preservation of this stunning region for future generations.
Terra Quechua Peru, based in Cusco, has been a trusted name in adventure travel for years. Our dedication to providing unique, authentic, and enriching experiences sets us apart.
This is more than a trek; it’s a chance to experience the Inca Trail like never before. Every step you take, every sight you see, will leave an indelible mark on your soul. Raquel and Edwin are here to make sure of it.
Join us for the Inca Trail Express and let the magic of Machu Picchu capture your heart. Reserve your spot today and embark on an unforgettable journey with Terra Quechua Peru.
Itinerary Inca Trail Express 7 Days / 6 Nights
DAY 1: CUSCO
Travel the impressive Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, an adventure that begins with the departure from the city of Cusco to the Sacred Valley.
You can arrive at any time as there are no activities planned until this important meeting 12:00pm. Please look for a note in the hotel lobby or ask the hotel reception where it will take place. If you can’t arrange a flight that will arrive in time, you may wish to arrive a day early so you’re able to attend. We’ll be happy to book additional accommodation for you (subject to availability). If you’re going to be late, please inform the hotel reception. We’ll be collecting your insurance details and next of kin information at this meeting, so please ensure you have all these details to provide to your leader.
The Cusco region truly is the heart and soul of Peru. The city itself is the continent’s oldest continuously inhabited city and was the home of the Incas for two centuries before the Spanish built their first capital here. Today Cusco is a fascinating combination of both cultures. Inca-built walls line the central streets and many of the elegant colonial buildings are built on or around Inca foundations. This is a city steeped in history, tradition and legend and is a perfect base for explorations into the Inca world or to enjoy a range of outdoor activities.
Take the time to acclimatise to the city’s 3,450 m (11,150 ft) altitude and explore the many Baroque churches and ancient temples that dot the city.
Your leader will take you on a walking tour including a visit to the Coca Museum – where you can learn more about this infamous plant which has been an essential part of life in the Andes for centuries – and the local San Pedro market.
The cathedral, built on top of an Inca palace, dominates the Main Square, Cuzco’s picturesque heart. The cathedral is one of the city’s greatest repositories of art and houses an elegantly carved choir stall and a silver-covered Neoclassic altar.
There are several impressive Inca ruins within the city. The most easily accessible is Qoricancha, which was the Inca empire’s richest temple. Once plated in thick gold, the Spanish built a Dominican church atop its sturdy walls.
The Boleto Turistico (Tourism Ticket) is a good option if you to visit the many musems in Cusco. This ticket also includes the archeaeological around Cuzco such as Sacsaywaman, Qenqo, Puka Pukara, Pisac and Ollantaytambo.Some museums in town, like Contemporary Art Meseum, Regional History Museum and Qosqo Native Art Museum can only be accessed by purchasing the Boleto Turistico.
Please note that this trip is part of a combination trip. Some of your fellow travellers may start this journey in Lima, may hike a different trek (or not hike at all) and/or may continue travelling to the Amazon Jungle
Included Activities
Coca Museum
Leader-led walking tour
Optional Activities
Tourist ticket+ (general) – PEN130
Cathedral – PEN40
City tour – USD15
Qoricancha – PEN15
Accommodation
Hotel (1 nt)
DAY 2: SACRED VALLEY – OLLANTAYTAMBO
Travel by private bus through the Sacred Valley (approx 2 hours total drive), on the outskirts of Cusco. Known as Wilcamayo to the Incas, the lush, fertile valley has long been the main source of food for the high Andes. Maize crops can be seen surrounding the river and covering the terraces carved high into the valley walls.
We will head to a community in the Valley to learn about local lifestyle and activities and if our visit coincides with market day we can spend time browsing the stalls in search of hand-painted beads or warm ponchos and maybe practising some of the local language, Quechua.
The town of Ollantaytambo has been built over an ancient Inca town, which is a magnificent example of Inca urban planning. This is one of the few places where the Incas defeated the Spanish.
Ollantaytambo’s archaeological site is located to the east of the Plaza de Armas. The upper terraces of this site offer great photo opportunities of the squared grid town below.
Included Activities:
Sacred Valley and local community visit
Optional Activities:
Ollantaytambo Ruins – PEN70
Accommodation
Hotel (1 nt)
DAYS 3-6: INCA TRAIL – MACHU PICCHU – CUSCO
INCA TRAIL: The Inca Trail is within the abilities of most reasonably fit people, but do come prepared: the trail is 45 km (28 miles) long and often steep. Generally each day’s journey consists of 7 hours walking on average (both uphill and downhill), plus stops for snacks and lunch. Normally trekking starts at 7am (except for the fourth morning) and you reach the campsite around 4-5pm.
Accommodation on the trek is camping (3 nights). Double tents (twin-share) and foam camping mats will be provided. Tents are set up by the porters. Meals are prepared by the trek cook.
Includes
- Pre-departure briefing
- 3 night Hotel (2N Cuzco – 1N Ollantaytambo)
- Tour leaders
- Sacred Valley Tours and visited to Community
- Collection from your hotel in the morning and transfer in private transport to km 82 (starting point of the trail)
- Inca Trail and Machupicchu entrance fee (days 1-4)
- Personal tents: 2 people in each 4-people-capacity tent, to allow for higher comfort and a safe keeping of backpacks. Our tents are 3-season, highly maintained to ensure an excellent performance in field. Kailas or North Faces Tent
- One inflatable sleeping pad per person
- Dining tent with tables and chairs
- Kitchen tent
- Toilet tent with bio-degradable toilet facilities
- English speaking professional guide (2 guides for groups of over 10 people)
- Chef and cooking equipment
- Porters (to carry tents, food and cooking equipment)
- Accommodation for all our staff
- Meals (03B, 03L, 03D + daily morning snack + daily tea service except last day). Vegetarian or special menus are available at no extra costt
- Filtered boiled water from lunch time on 1st day onwards
- Bio-degradable personal hand soaps
- Bio-degradable dishwashing detergents used by our kitchen staff
- Others: hot water every morning and evening for washing purposes / boiled water to fill in your water bottle every morning and night, and at lunch time if requested with enough time ahead
- First-aid kit including emergency oxygen bottle
- Bus ticket from Machu Picchu ruins down to the village of Aguas Calientes – 4th day
- Train ticket from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo (Expedition, Vistadome, upon request)
- Transfer train station to hotel in Cusco
No Incluye
- Breakfast on the first day
- Lunch and dinner on the last day: after the guided tour at Machupicchu, you can enjoy free time to further visit the ruins and choose to have lunch either in Machupicchu or in Aguas Calientes at your own expense. Arrival in Cusco is estimated after nightfall, dinner being at your own expense too
- Sleeping Bag
- Visit to the hot springs in Aguas Calientes: a relaxing way to end-up the trek while you’re awaiting the return train to Cusco, only 10 minutes from the village center, entrance fee is s/10.00 (Peruvian Soles). Towels can be hired in Aguas Calientes
- Huayna Picchu entrance fee: if you would like to climb this mountain a new entrance fee applies ( US$80)
- Tips: please note that our agency staff is well paid so please feel free to tip or not as you wish
Packing list Inca Trail Express 7 Days / 6 Nights
- A backpack with a change of clothes for the whole period of the trek
- Rain gear (jacket and pants if available) or rain poncho (plastic ponchos can be purchased in Cusco)
- Strong footwear, waterproof trekking boots recommended
- Sandals or jogging shoes for a higher comfort while at camp
- Warm clothes, including jacket, fleeces. Thermal clothing is also recommended, especially for sleeping
- Flashlight/headlamp and batteries
- Camera and batteries (batteries consume more quickly under cold conditions)
- Hat or cap to protect you from the sun, rain and cold
- Sun block
- After-sun cream or hydrating cream for face and body
- Insect repellent – minimum recommended 20% DEET – no malaria risk has been reported
- Handkerchiefs
- Toilet paper
- Snacks: biscuits, energy bars, chocolate, raw fruits, muesli, etc. Please note that we do provide a daily morning snack and our meal service is very complete and well supplied. This recommendation applies for all clients being used to a specific snack, as it may happen that it is not included in our selection
- Water container and water for the first morning. Important notice: plastic water bottles are no longer allowed into the Inca Trail. Plastic water containers (ie. Nalgene) or metal ones are recommended
- Optionally: water- sterilizing tablets in case you pick up water from streams or rivers along the route. Otherwise, we provide filtered boiled water, which is safe to drink and has not reported any health problem so far
- Small towel
- Swimsuit (if you wish to go to the hot springs in Aguas Calientes)
- Cash in soles and/or US$
- Original passport
- Original International Student Identity Card (in case you have applied for a student discount)
- walking sticks or poles (rubber covers required in order not to damage the Inca Trail)
Prices Inca Trail Express 7 Days / 6 Nights
Price information: Price per person 2024.
| GROUP SERVICE PRICE 2024- 2025 | ||||
| Number of People for group : | ||||
| 2pax | 3pax | 4pax | 5pax | 6 – 10pax |
| Contact Us | Contact Us | Contact Us | Contact Us | Contact Us |
Available discounts (these discounts are not cumulative)
Students: US$ 30.00 (students require a valid International Student Identity Card. Please note that Youth Travel Cards are not valid)
Teenagers: US$ 40.00 (up to 15 years of age, passport copy required for all bookings)
Children: US$ 60.00 (up to 7 years of age, passport copy required for all bookings)
DEPARTURE ON 2024
Inca Trail Availability
The exact information provided by you will be submitted to the governmental institution in charge of regulating the access to the Inca Trail and will be included in the official permit to enter the Inca Trail on the requested date. Should there be any change in the above-mentioned data (i.e., new passport number), we kindly request you to inform the Reservation Department at Terra Quechua Tour Operator via email as soon as possible. The government reserves the right not to allow the entry to any visitor whose data are not the exact ones as those in the official permit. Terra Quechua Tour Operator excludes any responsibility for a no entry in case the passenger information has changed without prior notice to us.
Inca Trail permits are available. You can book your trip for this date, 2024.
Overview
Duration
Type tour
Difficulty
Altitude
Acomodation
Group size
Embark on a unique 7-day, 6-night journey, the Inca Trail Express, guided by the experienced leaders of Terra Quechua Peru, Raquel and Edwin.
This exceptional journey allows you to explore the hidden treasures of the ancient Inca Trail. It’s a chance to witness nature’s beauty and immerse yourself in the rich history of the region.
Your trip leaders, Raquel and Edwin, are not just guides; they are your companions and experts on this voyage. With their deep knowledge and passion for the Inca Trail, they’ll provide you with insights that make your journey even more enriching.
Take time to disconnect from the fast pace of everyday life and find solace in the serene landscapes that surround you. The Inca Trail Express offers moments of reflection, allowing you to connect with nature and yourself.
Explore the captivating remnants of the Inca civilization as you visit archaeological sites along the trail. Raquel and Edwin will share their expertise, unveiling the mysteries of Machu Picchu and other historical gems.
Inca Trail Express is all about creating an intimate experience. We keep our group sizes small, ensuring you have the opportunity to connect with your fellow travelers and form lasting bonds.
Our commitment to responsible travel means that we respect the environment, support local communities, and follow sustainable trekking practices. When you choose us, you contribute to the preservation of this stunning region for future generations.
Terra Quechua Peru, based in Cusco, has been a trusted name in adventure travel for years. Our dedication to providing unique, authentic, and enriching experiences sets us apart.
This is more than a trek; it’s a chance to experience the Inca Trail like never before. Every step you take, every sight you see, will leave an indelible mark on your soul. Raquel and Edwin are here to make sure of it.
Join us for the Inca Trail Express and let the magic of Machu Picchu capture your heart. Reserve your spot today and embark on an unforgettable journey with Terra Quechua Peru.
DAY 1: CUSCO
Travel the impressive Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, an adventure that begins with the departure from the city of Cusco to the Sacred Valley.
You can arrive at any time as there are no activities planned until this important meeting 12:00pm. Please look for a note in the hotel lobby or ask the hotel reception where it will take place. If you can’t arrange a flight that will arrive in time, you may wish to arrive a day early so you’re able to attend. We’ll be happy to book additional accommodation for you (subject to availability). If you’re going to be late, please inform the hotel reception. We’ll be collecting your insurance details and next of kin information at this meeting, so please ensure you have all these details to provide to your leader.
The Cusco region truly is the heart and soul of Peru. The city itself is the continent’s oldest continuously inhabited city and was the home of the Incas for two centuries before the Spanish built their first capital here. Today Cusco is a fascinating combination of both cultures. Inca-built walls line the central streets and many of the elegant colonial buildings are built on or around Inca foundations. This is a city steeped in history, tradition and legend and is a perfect base for explorations into the Inca world or to enjoy a range of outdoor activities.
Take the time to acclimatise to the city’s 3,450 m (11,150 ft) altitude and explore the many Baroque churches and ancient temples that dot the city.
Your leader will take you on a walking tour including a visit to the Coca Museum – where you can learn more about this infamous plant which has been an essential part of life in the Andes for centuries – and the local San Pedro market.
The cathedral, built on top of an Inca palace, dominates the Main Square, Cuzco’s picturesque heart. The cathedral is one of the city’s greatest repositories of art and houses an elegantly carved choir stall and a silver-covered Neoclassic altar.
There are several impressive Inca ruins within the city. The most easily accessible is Qoricancha, which was the Inca empire’s richest temple. Once plated in thick gold, the Spanish built a Dominican church atop its sturdy walls.
The Boleto Turistico (Tourism Ticket) is a good option if you to visit the many musems in Cusco. This ticket also includes the archeaeological around Cuzco such as Sacsaywaman, Qenqo, Puka Pukara, Pisac and Ollantaytambo.Some museums in town, like Contemporary Art Meseum, Regional History Museum and Qosqo Native Art Museum can only be accessed by purchasing the Boleto Turistico.
Please note that this trip is part of a combination trip. Some of your fellow travellers may start this journey in Lima, may hike a different trek (or not hike at all) and/or may continue travelling to the Amazon Jungle
Included Activities
Coca Museum
Leader-led walking tour
Optional Activities
Tourist ticket+ (general) – PEN130
Cathedral – PEN40
City tour – USD15
Qoricancha – PEN15
Accommodation
Hotel (1 nt)
DAY 2: SACRED VALLEY – OLLANTAYTAMBO
Travel by private bus through the Sacred Valley (approx 2 hours total drive), on the outskirts of Cusco. Known as Wilcamayo to the Incas, the lush, fertile valley has long been the main source of food for the high Andes. Maize crops can be seen surrounding the river and covering the terraces carved high into the valley walls.
We will head to a community in the Valley to learn about local lifestyle and activities and if our visit coincides with market day we can spend time browsing the stalls in search of hand-painted beads or warm ponchos and maybe practising some of the local language, Quechua.
The town of Ollantaytambo has been built over an ancient Inca town, which is a magnificent example of Inca urban planning. This is one of the few places where the Incas defeated the Spanish.
Ollantaytambo’s archaeological site is located to the east of the Plaza de Armas. The upper terraces of this site offer great photo opportunities of the squared grid town below.
Included Activities:
Sacred Valley and local community visit
Optional Activities:
Ollantaytambo Ruins – PEN70
Accommodation
Hotel (1 nt)
DAYS 3-6: INCA TRAIL – MACHU PICCHU – CUSCO
INCA TRAIL: The Inca Trail is within the abilities of most reasonably fit people, but do come prepared: the trail is 45 km (28 miles) long and often steep. Generally each day’s journey consists of 7 hours walking on average (both uphill and downhill), plus stops for snacks and lunch. Normally trekking starts at 7am (except for the fourth morning) and you reach the campsite around 4-5pm.
Accommodation on the trek is camping (3 nights). Double tents (twin-share) and foam camping mats will be provided. Tents are set up by the porters. Meals are prepared by the trek cook.
Includes
- Pre-departure briefing
- 3 night Hotel (2N Cuzco – 1N Ollantaytambo)
- Tour leaders
- Sacred Valley Tours and visited to Community
- Collection from your hotel in the morning and transfer in private transport to km 82 (starting point of the trail)
- Inca Trail and Machupicchu entrance fee (days 1-4)
- Personal tents: 2 people in each 4-people-capacity tent, to allow for higher comfort and a safe keeping of backpacks. Our tents are 3-season, highly maintained to ensure an excellent performance in field. Kailas or North Faces Tent
- One inflatable sleeping pad per person
- Dining tent with tables and chairs
- Kitchen tent
- Toilet tent with bio-degradable toilet facilities
- English speaking professional guide (2 guides for groups of over 10 people)
- Chef and cooking equipment
- Porters (to carry tents, food and cooking equipment)
- Accommodation for all our staff
- Meals (03B, 03L, 03D + daily morning snack + daily tea service except last day). Vegetarian or special menus are available at no extra costt
- Filtered boiled water from lunch time on 1st day onwards
- Bio-degradable personal hand soaps
- Bio-degradable dishwashing detergents used by our kitchen staff
- Others: hot water every morning and evening for washing purposes / boiled water to fill in your water bottle every morning and night, and at lunch time if requested with enough time ahead
- First-aid kit including emergency oxygen bottle
- Bus ticket from Machu Picchu ruins down to the village of Aguas Calientes – 4th day
- Train ticket from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo (Expedition, Vistadome, upon request)
- Transfer train station to hotel in Cusco
- Breakfast on the first day
- Lunch and dinner on the last day: after the guided tour at Machupicchu, you can enjoy free time to further visit the ruins and choose to have lunch either in Machupicchu or in Aguas Calientes at your own expense. Arrival in Cusco is estimated after nightfall, dinner being at your own expense too
- Sleeping Bag
- Visit to the hot springs in Aguas Calientes: a relaxing way to end-up the trek while you’re awaiting the return train to Cusco, only 10 minutes from the village center, entrance fee is s/10.00 (Peruvian Soles). Towels can be hired in Aguas Calientes
- Huayna Picchu entrance fee: if you would like to climb this mountain a new entrance fee applies ( US$80)
- Tips: please note that our agency staff is well paid so please feel free to tip or not as you wish
- A backpack with a change of clothes for the whole period of the trek
- Rain gear (jacket and pants if available) or rain poncho (plastic ponchos can be purchased in Cusco)
- Strong footwear, waterproof trekking boots recommended
- Sandals or jogging shoes for a higher comfort while at camp
- Warm clothes, including jacket, fleeces. Thermal clothing is also recommended, especially for sleeping
- Flashlight/headlamp and batteries
- Camera and batteries (batteries consume more quickly under cold conditions)
- Hat or cap to protect you from the sun, rain and cold
- Sun block
- After-sun cream or hydrating cream for face and body
- Insect repellent – minimum recommended 20% DEET – no malaria risk has been reported
- Handkerchiefs
- Toilet paper
- Snacks: biscuits, energy bars, chocolate, raw fruits, muesli, etc. Please note that we do provide a daily morning snack and our meal service is very complete and well supplied. This recommendation applies for all clients being used to a specific snack, as it may happen that it is not included in our selection
- Water container and water for the first morning. Important notice: plastic water bottles are no longer allowed into the Inca Trail. Plastic water containers (ie. Nalgene) or metal ones are recommended
- Optionally: water- sterilizing tablets in case you pick up water from streams or rivers along the route. Otherwise, we provide filtered boiled water, which is safe to drink and has not reported any health problem so far
- Small towel
- Swimsuit (if you wish to go to the hot springs in Aguas Calientes)
- Cash in soles and/or US$
- Original passport
- Original International Student Identity Card (in case you have applied for a student discount)
- walking sticks or poles (rubber covers required in order not to damage the Inca Trail)
